The Steel Wings

[Aqui]

Originally, I was going to have the Steel Wings as a chapter who inherited their Geneseed from both the Blood Angels and Space Wolves due to the intervention of the Ruinous Powers influencing matter so that they were deliberately mixed, in an attempt to create a Chapter that due to the Wulfen curse and the Black Rage would be ideal and relatively easy to corrupt (But ultimately would for ever more remain loyal Imperial Space Marines.) However, after reading various parts of the forum I decided that although it was an interesting idea I couldn't justify the why's and where for's, mainly as it would be very difficult to explain how Chaos could get such a plan to work......

 

So here is the revised version of their Origins.

 

The Steel Wings Chapter - Chapter 911 of the Twenty Sixth Founding

 

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Veteran Tactical Marine of the First Company

 

http://www.bolterandchainsword.com/hq2.gif); background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position: 8px 2px; padding: 12px 8px 12px 8px; border: 1px solid #DDD; margin-left: 0 auto; text-align: left; color: #fff; text-indent:50px; font-size:130%; width:50%;">The origin of the Chapter name.

 

The first Chapter Master was originally a Blood Angel Captain called Fabien. During this time the Chapter had the name Baal's brethren. However, the Successor Chapter Master is now a T'ren native, Aquilanus formerly known as Sh'ur Natu (Flying Eagle). His transition to becoming a Steel Wing was difficult. His initial organs nearly rejected him and had on two occasions suffered fevered dreams of a "Man bathed in Brillant Glow". During these dreams Natu tried to speak to this man, but the man was ever silent. One of the few things he could recall was that the man was "Glorious, pure of Spirit....and he had wings". His rise to command was slower than that of his peers due to this, as the Chapter Master Fabian was unsure of a Marine who would see "Visions". During the Battle that Natu was injured by a Xeno that tore a large wound in his back shattering his back pack and almost ruining the Armour's life support systems. He was able to carry of fighting, but the wounds meant that he was considered a casualty at the finish and not expected to live. The Apothecaries did what they could to save Natu, but he fell into a coma and dreamt one last time. The man came back and finally spoke.

 

"My son. You will not die here. You will live, but will be changed even more than that of a Space Marine. You will stand alone amongst even your closest comrades, for you must. I see much in you and that of your Chapter. But like your Founding Chapter you have a difficult task ahead. Suspicion of what you have become and what you WILL become is your greatest enemy. Show yourself and that of your Chapter to be true in spirit and ever more so in deed..."

 

It took Natu three weeks to recover. Everything seemed fine initially, but Vestigial wings of whitest feather had developed on his back. The Apothecaries tried to stunt the growth, but they grew back. He was isolated from the Chapter in the fear that he was infected with xeno DNA, or worse corrupted by Chaos, for 8 weeks. The Chaplains and the Chapter Master visited him on many occassions, to convince him to have the wings removed or risk being executed as a mutant, but he refused. The day he was to be executed, an attack by the same Xeno's that had injured him had managed to board the Battle barge. Deciding that if he should die it would be in battle, he threw himself into the fray killing the Xeno leader and retinue. However, the Wings were damaged beyond repair and were removed once more. They did not grow back. It was decided that Natu would become Chapter Master as Fabien had died in the Battle. Because Natu's Wings resembled that of the Primarch Sanguinius, he was Named Primarch of the Steel Wings instead of Chapter master, and adopted the name Aquilanus as Aquila is Imperial Gothic for "Eagle". Aquilanus' armour was fitted with "Steel Wings" and after petitioning the Administratum the Chapter's name was changed to reflect this. The Chapter Armour was painted Grey to reflect the fact that they are Crusading and feel unworthy of painting their Armour Red, and instead have Red highlights to honour their origins.

 

Although Aquilanus' original wings is known to the Inquisition, they have not thus far taken action against the Steel Wings because for now they have not shown any sign of Heresy or further Mutation. However, a number of Inquisitors are alerted to the Chapter and will step in if such signs ever occur. The Chapter, however does NOT know this.

 

 

Recruitment

 

The Steel Wings recruit from a Couple of Worlds within the Area that they Crusade. Like Baal, they are inhospitable places, although not to the same extreme, in the case of these Planets being Naturally inhospitable and not from Nuclear War. Both Planets orbit a Very hot sun and are Arid and dusty. Water is a valuable resource and jealously guarded. Water covers barely a twentieth of the Planets surface and all Tribes live near it. The natives themselves are of average intelligence, but do not have a significant level of technology, in Terran terms the natives have a Technology level just above of Ancient Bronze age. The Ancestors of the Natives are the remants of a Terraforming expeditiion Stranded after the Warp storms of old and were rediscovered 500 years after the Horus Heresy. The main Planet has no name as yet, but is fairly near to the middle of Segmentum tempestus. The Second Planet is similar to the first but has far fewer natives and is used mainly to train new recruits in most types of Warfare.

 

The Natives of the Planet collectively call themselves the T'ren (which subject to Administratum approval will be the Main Planets name the other would be T'ren Secundus), which is a corruption of the word Terran, whom their Ancestors were. Most of their History is Myth and is passed down by Village Elders to the Children. They can read and write, but prefer to pass on knowledge through memory than hard copy. Because of the scarcity of Water conflict happens frequently, mainly if one Village tries to take over the Coastal areas of another. Communication between Villages is uncommon, but Marriages of residents of two Villages have been known to cement a treaty, usually a Promise to leave each others lands alone. Most Villages are under attack from Amphibious animals which seem to vary from region to region, but are usually big, nasty and persistent. Young Males often go out further from their Villages to seek Glory by killing these animals, hoping the Steel Wings are watching, and take them to be new Space Marines.

 

The Steel Wings make no secret of their existance and treat the T'rens with respect, only showing themselves when they need new recruits. The T'rens do not believe them to be Gods, but do know that they are superior in every way and treat the Steel Wings with deference. Steel Wing Chaplains visit T'ren Prime and Secundus every ten years unless circumstances demand another appearance. The visit is known by the T'ren as the test. Chaplains visit a neutral area near the edge of a rocky coast line and will stay for 10 days. Steel Wing Chaplains do not seek out aspirants, but will wait for anyone willing to accept the test.

 

The Test

 

Young Males aspiring for the ranks of the Steel Wing Chapter have to complete the Test to the Chaplins satisfaction. It comprises of Physical and mental Challenges, including runs through the central desert without food or water, logic puzzles and answering questions posed by the Chaplain himself. If the youngster passes he is taken to a Thunderhawk Gunship to be taken to the Satellite for conversion to becoming a Steel Wing.

 

Indoctrination

 

The Steel Wings have a living record of their Blood Angel Brothers's deeds and ever hope to achieve the same. Sanguinius and the Emperor are Venerated in a Huge Shrine. Ceremonies are simple, consisting of Prayers and uplifting quotes made from Blood Angels from the past. Steel Wings are expected to be knowledgeable of Blood Angel Achievements and to be a credit to their Blood Angel Brethren.

 

Organisation

 

Steel Wings follow the Codex Asartes fairly closely, except that they have an extra assault company (instead of the Blood Angels' Death Company)

Company Markings are standard colours - the Left Shoulder, knee and Helmet demote their Company colours, the right shoulder denotes squad type (tactical, Assault etc)

 

Battle Cries

 

For Sanguinius!

 

Facta non verba - Deeds not words

 

Aere perennius - Truer than steel

 

Merebimur - We shall be worthy

 

 

 

 

I will add more (Such as the Chapter Symbol which I haven't worked out fully yet), but am knackered and can no longer think straight :)

 

Comments etc welcome ^_^

[Severus6]

Unlike their Blood Angel Brethren they do not suffer from the Black Rage

 

Why? Why do they not suffer from the Black Rage? The only Chapter that is an off-shoot Chapter from the BA that do not suffer from those side effects are the Lamenters and they are a Cursed Founding Chapter with many a problem of their own.

 

Vestigial wings of whitest feather had developed on his back. The Apothecaries tried to stunt the growth, but they grew back. He was isolated from the Chapter in the fear that he was infected with xeno DNA, or worse corrupted by Chaos

 

This is a direct take from the Swalllow novels and it nearly cost the Chapter to devolve into a full scale civil war.

 

Because Natu's Wings resembled that of the Primarch Sanguinius, he was Named Primarch of the Steel Wings instead of Chapter master,

 

The issue here is that the BA and every other BA related Chapter may very well have a big problem with that. There was only one Primarch for the BA; having someone usurp that title and position would not put you into a favored status with any of them.

 

Severus6

[Aqui]

Unlike their Blood Angel Brethren they do not suffer from the Black Rage

 

Why? Why do they not suffer from the Black Rage? The only Chapter that is an off-shoot Chapter from the BA that do not suffer from those side effects are the Lamenters and they are a Cursed Founding Chapter with many a problem of their own.

 

I will admit, I have worked out the reason why. I take that out and maybe say that Marines are less likely to suffer from it.

 

Vestigial wings of whitest feather had developed on his back. The Apothecaries tried to stunt the growth, but they grew back. He was isolated from the Chapter in the fear that he was infected with xeno DNA, or worse corrupted by Chaos

 

This is a direct take from the Swalllow novels and it nearly cost the Chapter to devolve into a full scale civil war.

 

You mean the BA Novels? It's pure coincidence as I haven't read those novels yet :(

 

Because Natu's Wings resembled that of the Primarch Sanguinius, he was Named Primarch of the Steel Wings instead of Chapter master,

 

The issue here is that the BA and every other BA related Chapter may very well have a big problem with that. There was only one Primarch for the BA; having someone usurp that title and position would not put you into a favored status with any of them.

 

Having the title "Primarch" was only to honour Sanguinius, not to usurp him. I may well take that out too.....

 

Thanks for the input :)

 

Severus6

[Aqui]

After some thought, I decided that I should completely revamp my DIY Chapter the Steel Wings altogether. Hopefully I'm on better lines than last time, as I've had quite some time to re-immerse myself in 40k and the Fluff ^_^

So without further ado, I re-present my Chapter! :D

Picking up the pieces - The Steel Wings Chapter

Chapter Symbol

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"Do we bemoan our lost history? Should we doubt ourselves because we know not the Gene line from whence we came? No! For ultimately we came from the Emperor. And in our duty we shall not fail him!" - Brother-Captain Hubros, 2nd Company of the Steel Wings Chapter

Tactical Space Marine

(Greatest amounts of Gratitute to Philip S for the above ^_^ )

http://www.bolterandchainsword.com/hq2.gif); background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position: 8px 2px; padding: 12px 8px 12px 8px; border: 1px solid #DDD; margin-left: 0 auto; text-align: left; color: #fff; text-indent:50px; font-size:130%; width:50%;">Recruitment and Indoctrination

Since the tragedy that befell them all those years ago, The Steel Wings recruit from more than one World, now being wary that should their home world fall again, it could spell the end for them. Recruitment is made on 3 seperate worlds including Defluo that are far enough apart to lower the risk of them all being over run, but not so far that they cannot be accessed with difficulty. Recruitment takes place twice per year, but due to the very small populations of Defluo and the other recruitment planets and the rigorous checking and rechecking of aspirants, the Chapter will be under strength for many years to come. Selection of aspirants is made by a series of tests that the local populace undertake themselves under the discrete supervision of a Steel Wing Chaplain and the Senior Apothecary. The locals take the tests very seriously, and will not allow under par candidates to continue on to final selection by the Chaplain and Chief Apothecary. At any particular testing time, the average amount of successful aspirants is usually about 4 or 5. The Chapter feels that it is far better to be certain of the quality of the recruit from the beginning than to have many and root out unsuitable recruits later on. This of course prevents them from regaining full strength, and the Chapter as a whole is fully aware of this, but old habits die hard.

Since the Chapter has no idea from whom they came, the main focus of the Chapter is the Emperor and the Protection of the Imperium. The Chapter has a great respect for all of the Founding Legions/Chapters and their Primarchs, as they look to them for inspiration, spurring them on to ever greater deeds in battle. The Chaplains instill within the aspirants and neophytes the importance of patience and planning in battle, but that ultimately a Marines greatest weapon is faith in the God-Emperor. The Codex is held up as an example of how Marines conduct themselves in all aspects of their lives. Prayer and training is paramount as is study of past battles, involving both the Steel Wings and that of their brother Chapters. Each Marine is expected to select a battle and give their own evaluation, to greater understand what is expected of themselves and to learn from past mistakes. The Librarium, empty of their past, is however full of tactical data of nearly every battle waged. The Steel Wings especially have an interest in conflicts such as the Badab War and the History around the time of their creation.

Organisation

Companies

The Chapter is unusual in that it is the Second Company that leads them in battle. This is due to the face that the First Company is far from full strength. Once it has returned to it's former glory, the Second will once again defer to the First Company as per the Codex, but will always be remembered as Exempoator. Banner motto:Plumbum per Exempoator.

The First Company is currently used as an extended Honour guard for the Chapter Master, and for leading specific units in battle. Their presence on the battlefield is both a reminder of the Tragedy and that of hope for the future of the Chapter. Within the Chapter structure, they stand in opposition of the Fifth Company's view point of dedicating more time to search for their past, feeling that the deeds of the future are now more important than that of the past. Banner Motto: Res termino nos

The Third Company only leaves Defluo when it is their turn within the Chapter rotation to fight off world. Staunch defenders of the Home World, Third Company has rarely any casualties when off World. Banner Motto: Tutor of totus

The Fourth Company has a more adaptable approach when in battle, at least by Steel Wing standards. They are more reckless, ingenious in their thinking and subject to occasional chastisement by the Chapter Master for it. However, it is conceded by even the most stubborn Steel Wing Marine, that sometimes even the most carefully planned attack can go wrong and risks need to be taken. When all else has failed, it is the Fourth who steps in. Banner motto: Laxus reputo

The Fifth Company has a sense of fatalism not shared by the other Companies. Despite being back to full strength, the effect of being one of those devastated Millennia ago, has left it's mark on it's mentality. To them the Chapter is in a Dire situation and that the will never be a "True" and "effective" fighting Force again. It has been them who have constantly called for more effort to be made to find out from which Chapter they are from. The Current and former Chapter Masters have thus far veto'd expending too much time in looking for answers, but their voice is becoming more and more persuasive.... Banner Motto: Certus ut fortuna

The Tenth Company - the Scout Company, has an arduous task on it's hands. With the increasing tension within the Chapter it is seen by the others as a neutral party, not ascribing to any particular view point on the Chapters future. It excels in teaching it's Cadets and Neophytes that planning ones own actions is most important and that it can be key to victory. Stealth even by most other Chapter standards is excellent because of their role as intelligence gatherers. Although the Tenth by tradition and practicality have no banner as such they do have the motto Posterus intus totus

The Steel Wings follow the Codex fairly closely, but even hundreds of years after the Events that changed the Chapter forever, they are still not up to full strength. This can be construed to the overall wariness to be rash in their actions and the low populations on their recruitment worlds. They do not want to make any further mistakes and cause their own ruin, but conversely this very attitude has prevented themselves from regaining their former strength. The Chapter consists of 6 Companies rather than the usual 10 and have no reserve Companies, but still have the 10th Scout company. To reflect this they are mainly used to reinforcing other Space Marine Chapters. The Chapter never sends out its full strength, leaving one Company on their homeworld, usually the 3rd. The Chapter has supported many Chapters in their campaigns often acting as reserves, protecting supply lines and to escort Civilians away from Battle fronts. Because of their low numbers, most Steel Wing officers have made it a point to make the best of their troops, gather vital tactical data using their scouts and to supplement their fight abilities with the use of heavy armour. The Chapter despite it's low numbers have made it a point to honour it's commitment to the Legio Bolter and Chainsword and sends two of it's best Warriors to that notable Chapter. It is considered a great honour to be selected and competition for a position is fierce.

The chapter have an less than average amount of Librarians, mainly due to the low psychic potential of the indigenous populations they recruit from. The few that exist are held both with awe and respect on and off the battle field.

To compensate for their low numbers, the Chapter does have slightly more vehicles than other Chapters, mainly bikes and Landspeeders, believing that lightning strikes are crucial when taking enemy positions. Dreadnoughts are very rare, due to the catastrophe that brought them low. Much of the equipment was destroyed including many Dreadnoughts. The Steel Wings have currently 3 active, and 5 others that are being restored. Tactical dreadnought armour (TDA) is hardly used, as the original first company was one of those devastated. To use such armour is a privilege of the highest order. Currently the Chapter has 15 working units.

Notable Characters

Brother-Captain Hubros: A veteran of many battles. Patient, and not one for rushing in blindly, he is one of the Chapters greatest Champions. He was also responsible for one of the Chapters Greatest woes [insert details when Story is finished]

Personal Heraldry of Brother-Captain Hubros

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b118/PLUM_ANIMEFANZINE/SteelWingsHeraldry-1-1.jpg

The triumvirate: The term is one from Ancient Terra, used to describe three rulers who ruled a vast area of the Planet and has been given to three Dreadnoughts who have proven themselves time and again before and after their internment:

Nishrai – The Chapters’ former Chapter Master. Level headed, and a tactical genius, He was overcome by a Horde of Orks during a Waaah! on the Planet [insert name] Has been a Dreadnought for over 200 years.

Zahilm – Previously a Devastator Sergeant, 6th Company. Had unerring aim, had a cool head under fire and was responsible for bringing down the leader of a Chaos Warband with a single shot.

Bayadom – An Assault Marine who once attacked and destroyed a Chaos Rhino using only a Chainsword and a Krak grenade. He was interred inside a Dreadnought 90 years after that event.

Battle Cries

Facta non verba - Deeds not words

Aere perennius - Truer than steel

Merebimur - We will be worthy

Memor in officium - Mindful in duty

I realise I don't have much down yet (and that some details are blank at the moment, but I wanted to get this all down so I didn't forget any of it.

Comments etc welcome and apreciated! :D

[RagingGriffon]

I am glad you re-worked your Chapter ;)

 

Well, there isn't much to go on, but I do think them petitioning the Ad Mech for comparison of their geneseeds is interesting and has high potential. You are going to have to make your Chapter older, have their homeworld destroyed many thousand years ago, have them teeter on the brink of extinction, and then fight back. I think 350 years is a bit too short to forget where you came from. I would suggest pre-Age of Apostasy, therefore records could be destroyed, their homeworld destroyed because a Waagh tore through and no-one came to their aid.

[Aqui]

I am glad you re-worked your Chapter :P

 

Well, there isn't much to go on, but I do think them petitioning the Ad Mech for comparison of their geneseeds is interesting and has high potential. You are going to have to make your Chapter older, have their homeworld destroyed many thousand years ago, have them teeter on the brink of extinction, and then fight back. I think 350 years is a bit too short to forget where you came from. I would suggest pre-Age of Apostasy, therefore records could be destroyed, their homeworld destroyed because a Waagh tore through and no-one came to their aid.

 

Thanks for the comments ;)

 

I did think that 350 years was a little short after I posted, but although I've read and read the Background of the Imperium for hours (and have a sore head because of it) I started getting a little confused as to when to put them. I wanted to be able to fit them in in a time period that I could expand upon, but not conflict with established events, hence why so far the IA is very sketchy. I think I'll have another look at the Age of Apostasy and there abouts to see what I can do to fit them in there. Finding a Planet where nothing has happened is a bit hard too, but I'll get there :)

 

As for the Petition, I figured that if you was desperate to find out where you've come from Historically, the AdMech must know, and although I have a few ideas as to why they have refused thus far, I need to think out how, without it looking Cheesy ;)

 

Thanks again :)

[Aqui]

Have added a little more just to establish a few concrete facts. Will add more tomorrow hopefully ;)

 

As ever C+C welcome!

[Aqui]

I've only had chance to add a rudimentary Chapter symbol and a quote from Brother-Captain Hubros to the IA. I did want to do more but I haven't had chance :o However, I do have a few ideas to add as soon as I can get a chance to :lol:

[Aqui]

More has been added, especially regarding the Chapters mindset, which I consider fairly important. Comments etc greatly appreciated, as I would really like to know if I'm going about this the right way :)

[Aqui]

I've hit a bit of a wall regarding what else to include. I'm not sure what else to put in the IA without putting too much in and losing the Mystery about why and how they were brung low (I intend to explain a little bit in the story I'm writing)

 

If anyone has any comments, I would really appreciate them (Sorry to bump this, as I know it's frowned on - I don't like doing it), but I am really stuck :rolleyes: )

[Grey Hunter Ydalir]

My suggestion is to go have a browse of some of the DIY's that have been admitted to the Librarium. Also of note are some of the other chapters in development in the Liber. Any of Ace Debonair's chapters are a good start, unfinished as they are. There are innumerable other worthy subjects of study too, but I'll let you browse the forum yourself.

 

The problem is you're going into far too much detail on the things which don't matter and aren't really touching at all the things which do matter.

 

The Planet has two Continents - one at the equator, the other on the Southern Pole. It is here that the Steel Wings had their Fortress Monastery. The Steel Wings currently have a smaller base of Operations at the Northern edge of the Coast-line on the Equatorial continent.

 

^ Not important.

 

Because of the Chapters lost past, Steel Wing Marines will never choose a path or course of action without examining all possible outcomes for fear of making the wrong choice. Because of this the Chapter can sometimes be a little slow to take action in battle, but when they have chosen, it is usually swift, efficient and always brutal.

 

^ Important.

 

The Organization section is a prime example of overdoing it on the things which we don't need to, nor generally want to know about. The Indoctrination section (which is a non-standard section in of itself) is almost split in half between the information that is good and that which is bad.

 

Each Marine is expected to select a battle and give their own evaluation, to greater understand what is expected of themselves and to learn from past mistakes. The Librarium, empty of their past, is however full of tactical data of nearly every battle waged. The Steel Wings especially have an interest in conflicts such as the Badab War and the History around the time of their creation.

 

This piece and the aforementioned important section are interesting bits of character than are being buried under the sheer weight of redundant or uninteresting data. This is what you need to concentrate on.

[Aqui]

My suggestion is to go have a browse of some of the DIY's that have been admitted to the Librarium. Also of note are some of the other chapters in development in the Liber. Any of Ace Debonair's chapters are a good start, unfinished as they are. There are innumerable other worthy subjects of study too, but I'll let you browse the forum yourself.

 

I have done and there are some really good ones. My main problem is that I want to keep my Chapter's history vague, but give just enough to make them interesting. A lot of what I have planned for them is going to be in the story I'm writing about them. I want the reader of my IA to have enough knowledge of what they are etc, but then for them be blown away (in what I hope will be original ideas) as to what actually happened to them in the past. I could write the IA in a way that the reader *does* know, and then the story so that the Chapter then finds out, but I thought it more credible reading if the Chapter and the reader find out at the same time (if that makes sense)

 

The problem is you're going into far too much detail on the things which don't matter and aren't really touching at all the things which do matter.

 

I tend to do that :P I think I'll have to go back to reading other Liber entries and see what I'm missing out and then remove what bumph I'm leaving in :)

 

Thanks for the honest feedback :P

[Grey Hunter Ydalir]

The problem here is that you're linking your IA and your story far too strongly. While they can be related and the story can even rely on some information from the IA (though ideally it shouldn't) the IA should not have to rely on a narrative piece to make sense or be complete.

 

An IA is a summary of a chapter. It tells the reader what these marines are all about. Who they are and why they are the way they are.

 

Far too much repetition of phrase in that last sentence.

 

The point is I think you need to decide whether you want to write a story or an IA and do one or the other, rather than a collection of both. You can still write both, but not so closely linked that they fall apart without one another. Honestly, neither should need to either as I said before.

[Aqui]

The problem here is that you're linking your IA and your story far too strongly. While they can be related and the story can even rely on some information from the IA (though ideally it shouldn't) the IA should not have to rely on a narrative piece to make sense or be complete.

 

An IA is a summary of a chapter. It tells the reader what these marines are all about. Who they are and why they are the way they are.

 

Far too much repetition of phrase in that last sentence.

 

The point is I think you need to decide whether you want to write a story or an IA and do one or the other, rather than a collection of both. You can still write both, but not so closely linked that they fall apart without one another. Honestly, neither should need to either as I said before.

 

After a few days away from both the IA and the story, I think I can do both, but keep them separate entities as you suggested (thank you, as my head was going to explode :D ).

 

Have added a bit of fluff about the surviving Companies to keep my hand in. Hopefully more when I have sometime off later this week :P

[Aqui]

Well, as far fetched as it sounds, but this thread is about a year old! With that in mind, I've had a really long and hard think about what is usable and what isn't. A lot of what isn't are things I would have liked to have kept in, but somehow I have to get past that. So, I'll make a few bullet points here to see if what I have thought about is any better.

 

Third time lucky I hope!

 

Geneseed: UltraMarines for now (may change if I can think of something more suitable), 14th Founding

 

Homeworld : Defluo, Segmentum Pacificus

 

History of the Chapter is no longer "lost", but will still try to add that because of circumstances in the past, they are slower to react to certain situations (mainly, because they nearly got decimated once and refuse to allow it to happen again) However, because of their near extinction, the Chapters Librarium has a vast collection of battle reports from other Chapters. Battles against Chaos are of especial interest to the Chapter because of what happened (Ties in with the Bahltimyr Reavers [Rayvens], as it was they who kicked their butts along with other Chaos raiders)

 

Lower than average amount of Psykers in their ranks because due to population having an even lower psychic "potential" for want of a better term than other worlds in the Imperium. The few Librarians the Chapter have are respected for their iron will against the predations of Chaos.

 

Chapter was so named due to the first time a Chapter ship (T-Hawk?) was seen by the indiginous population, as one local commented that the "huge bird creature had Wings of Steel"

 

I also liked the idea that the Chapter had two camps of thought. In the last incarnation, one camp wanted to devote all of their time finding out from whom they are decended. The other was resigned to the fact that they would most likely never know. In this incarnation, I thought that it would be good to still have the "antagonism" as before, but directed at finding out who had wrought all the damage that nearly laid them low.

 

Any thoughts? Honesty doesn't hurt even when pounded home with a bowling ball :)

[Captain Juan Juarez]

Two schools of though could be slightly different..?

 

Camp One: Kill the Baltimore Ravens :)

 

Camp Two: Let us not be killed.

 

Which, I realise, is potentially what you just said.

[Aqui]

Two schools of though could be slightly different..?

 

Camp One: Kill the Baltimore Ravens ;)

 

Camp Two: Let us not be killed.

 

Which, I realise, is potentially what you just said.

 

The Steelers did that :) but I digress :)

 

However, in all seriousness, does the above make for a better IA? I've thought long and hard about the comments made the last time (including yours CJJ, albeit in the Reavers IT ;) ) and I want to iron things out before adding the facts etc in.

[Captain Juan Juarez]

Without reading everything in post one, I can't truly comment on the newer ideas BUT!

 

As is the ideas seem fine, though my own personal taste would be to say that they are slower not because they were decimated but because they were rash in acting and that lead to the near extincition.

 

Also, the fact that there is lower psychic potential, doesn't mean the Chapter would respect its Librarians iron will more.. That's like saying "Wow! None of you Librarians have fallen to perils of the Warp? Impressive!" Until you get told there are only two Librarians... :)

[Aqui]

Without reading everything in post one, I can't truly comment on the newer ideas BUT!

 

As is the ideas seem fine, though my own personal taste would be to say that they are slower not because they were decimated but because they were rash in acting and that lead to the near extincition.

 

Also, the fact that there is lower psychic potential, doesn't mean the Chapter would respect its Librarians iron will more.. That's like saying "Wow! None of you Librarians have fallen to perils of the Warp? Impressive!" Until you get told there are only two Librarians... :)

 

What I mean by slower is, if you was to observe the Ultras retake a world, they would refer to the codex, find the right strategy and go in all guns blazing (or not) The Steel Wings will literally look at things from every angle conceivable to see if they have left themselves open to another butt kicking. Regarding the Librarians, I'm not saying there are hardly any, just fewer of them. The ones they do have are respected for what they can do, but at the same time the Chapter as a whole are wary of those same abilities for what they could (i.e. possession) do. Although thinking about it, I dare say a lot of Chapters hold their Librarium with a little wariness....

 

EDIT: Re read what you had put about being slow - that could work too.

[Captain Juan Juarez]

What I mean by slower is, if you was to observe the Ultras retake a world, they would refer to the codex, find the right strategy and go in all guns blazing (or not) The Steel Wings will literally look at things from every angle conceivable to see if they have left themselves open to another butt kicking. Regarding the Librarians, I'm not saying there are hardly any, just fewer of them. The ones they do have are respected for what they can do, but at the same time the Chapter as a whole are wary of those same abilities for what they could (i.e. possession) do. Although thinking about it, I dare say a lot of Chapters hold their Librarium with a little wariness....

 

And which bit of this did I know when I responded? :)

 

To get an answer to the "Is this plausible.." question, you need to give all the info you have on what you mean - bear in mind this isn't a dig at you, by the way - because otherwise you get answers that you refute by going "No.. This is what I mean...." :)

[Aqui]

What I mean by slower is, if you was to observe the Ultras retake a world, they would refer to the codex, find the right strategy and go in all guns blazing (or not) The Steel Wings will literally look at things from every angle conceivable to see if they have left themselves open to another butt kicking. Regarding the Librarians, I'm not saying there are hardly any, just fewer of them. The ones they do have are respected for what they can do, but at the same time the Chapter as a whole are wary of those same abilities for what they could (i.e. possession) do. Although thinking about it, I dare say a lot of Chapters hold their Librarium with a little wariness....

 

And which bit of this did I know when I responded? :)

 

To get an answer to the "Is this plausible.." question, you need to give all the info you have on what you mean - bear in mind this isn't a dig at you, by the way - because otherwise you get answers that you refute by going "No.. This is what I mean...." ;)

 

I get that it isn't a dig ;)

 

I have a day off Wednesday (car has MOT :) ), so I'll try to get something more substantial posted then.

 

Ta muchly ;)

[Captain Juan Juarez]

I shall await with baited breath.. Hopefully I'll finish the other two printed critiques I have by then.

[Aqui]

Picking up the pieces - The Steel Wings Chapter

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Chapter Symbol

"A second wasted mulling over our defeat, is a second we can not use fighting for Him on Earth. That, brothers is the worst heresy possible!" - Brother-Captain Hubros, 2nd Company of the Steel Wings Chapter



Tactical Space Marine

(Greatest amounts of Gratitute to Philip S for the above B) )

http://www.bolterandchainsword.com/hq2.gif); background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position: 8px 2px; padding: 12px 8px 12px 8px; border: 1px solid #DDD; margin-left: 0 auto; text-align: left; color: #fff; text-indent:50px; font-size:130%; width:50%;">Recruitment and Indoctrination

Since the tragedy that befell them all those years ago, The Steel Wings recruit from more than one World, now being wary that should their home world fall again, it could spell the end for them. Recruitment is made on 3 seperate worlds including Defluo that are far enough apart to lower the risk of them all being over run, but not so far that they cannot be accessed with difficulty. Recruitment takes place twice per year, but due to the very small populations of Defluo and the other recruitment planets and the rigorous checking and rechecking of aspirants, the Chapter sometimes struggles to find an adequate amount of Aspirants to replace losses. Selection of aspirants is made by a series of tests that the local populace undertake themselves under the discrete supervision of a Steel Wing Chaplain and the Senior Apothecary. The locals take the tests very seriously, and will not allow under par candidates to continue on to final selection by the Chaplain and Chief Apothecary. At any particular testing time, the average amount of successful aspirants is usually about 1 or 2 . The Chapter feels that it is far better to be certain of the quality of the recruit from the beginning than to have many and root out unsuitable recruits later on. This of course prevents them sometimes, from regaining full strength, and the Chapter as a whole is fully aware of this, but old habits die hard.

The Noble Guilliman features heavily in the daily lives of the Marines. Having said this, the Chapter has a great respect for all of the Founding Legions/Chapters and their Primarchs, as they look to them for inspiration, spurring them on to ever greater deeds in battle. The Chaplains instill within the aspirants and neophytes the importance of patience and planning in battle, but that ultimately a Marines greatest weapon is faith in the God-Emperor. The Codex is held up as an example of how Marines conduct themselves in all aspects of their lives. Prayer and training is paramount as is study of past battles, involving both the Steel Wings and that of their brother Chapters. Each Marine is expected to select a battle and give their own evaluation, to greater understand what is expected of themselves and to learn from past mistakes. The Librarium is full of tactical data of nearly every battle waged. The Steel Wings especially have an interest in conflicts such as the Badab War and the History around the time of their creation.

Organisation

Companies

The Steel Wings are a Codex Chapter, as is expected from a decendant Chapter of the Ultra Marines.The First Company was the heaviest hit when the attack befell Defluo, and to commemorate their sacrifice, their finest Champions are given the title Exempoator. Banner motto:Plumbum per Exempoator.

The First Company are of course the finest within the Chapter. Their presence on the battlefield is both a reminder of the Tragedy and that of hope for the future of the Chapter. Within the Chapter structure, they stand in opposition of the Fifth Company's view point of dedicating more time to search for their aggressors, feeling that the deeds of the future are now more important than that of revenege. Banner Motto: Res termino nos

The Third Company only leaves Defluo when it is their turn within the Chapter rotation to fight off world. Staunch defenders of the Home World, Third Company has rarely any casualties when off World. Banner Motto: Tutor of totus

The Fourth Company has a more adaptable approach when in battle, at least by Steel Wing standards. They are more reckless, ingenious in their thinking and subject to occasional chastisement by the Chapter Master for it. However, it is conceded by even the most stubborn Steel Wing Marine, that sometimes even the most carefully planned attack can go wrong and risks need to be taken. When all else has failed, it is the Fourth who steps in. Banner motto: Laxus reputo

The Fifth Company has a sense of fatalism not shared by the other Companies. Despite being back to full strength, the effect of being one of those devastated, has left it's mark on it's mentality. To them the Chapter is in a Dire situation and that the will never be a "True" and "effective" fighting Force again. It has been them who have constantly called for more effort to be made to find out who laid them low. The Current and former Chapter Masters have thus far veto'd expending too much time in looking for answers, but their voice is becoming more and more persuasive.... Banner Motto: Certus ut fortuna

The Tenth Company - the Scout Company, has an arduous task on it's hands. With the increasing tension within the Chapter it is seen by the others as a neutral party, not ascribing to any particular view point on the Chapters future. It excels in teaching it's Cadets and Neophytes that planning ones own actions is most important and that it can be key to victory. Stealth even by most other Chapter standards is excellent because of their role as intelligence gatherers. Although the Tenth by tradition and practicality have no banner as such they do have the motto Posterus intus totus

It is ingrained into all Steel Wing officers to make the best of their troops, gather vital tactical data using their scouts and to supplement their fight abilities with the use of heavy armour. The Chapter despite it's low numbers on occasions, have made it a point to honour it's commitment to the Legio Bolter and Chainsword and sends two of it's best Warriors to that notable Chapter. It is considered a great honour to be selected and competition for a position is fierce.

The chapter have an less than average amount of Librarians, mainly due to the low psychic potential of the indigenous populations they recruit from. The few that exist are held both with awe and respect on and off the battle field.

The Chapter does have slightly more vehicles than other Chapters, mainly bikes and Landspeeders, believing that lightning strikes are crucial when taking enemy positions. Dreadnoughts are very rare, due to the catastrophe. Much of the equipment was destroyed including many Dreadnoughts. The Steel Wings have currently 3 active, and 5 others that are being restored. Tactical dreadnought armour (TDA) is rare, as the original first company was one of those devastated. To use such armour is a privilege of the highest order. Currently the Chapter has 25 working units.

Notable Characters

Brother-Captain Hubros: A veteran of many battles. Patient, and not one for rushing in blindly, he is one of the Chapters greatest Champions. He was also responsible for one of the Chapters Greatest woes

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Personal Heraldry of Brother-Captain Hubros

The triumvirate: The term is one from Ancient Terra, used to describe three rulers who ruled a vast area of the Planet and has been given to three Dreadnoughts who have proven themselves time and again before and after their internment:

Nishrai – The Chapters’ former Chapter Master. Level headed, and a tactical genius, He was overcome by a Horde of Orks during a Waaah! on the Planet [insert name] Has been a Dreadnought for over 200 years.

Zahilm – Previously a Devastator Sergeant, 6th Company. Had unerring aim, had a cool head under fire and was responsible for bringing down the leader of a Chaos Warband with a single shot.

Bayadom – An Assault Marine who once attacked and destroyed a Chaos Rhino using only a Chainsword and a Krak grenade. He was interred inside a Dreadnought 90 years after that event.

Battle Cries

Facta non verba - Deeds not words
Aere perennius - Truer than steel
Merebimur - We will be worthy
Memor in officium - Mindful in duty



I decided to get a crack on tonight and get this much done, but will add more down the line.