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This article, Imperial Templars, was written by Legio Templar. Please do not edit or 'acquire' this fiction without the writer's permission. |
- "Victory is not found in strength alone but in unwavering resolve. Endure the storm, and the Emperor's light prevails! "
- —Lord Praetor Ares during the Siege of Terra
The Imperial Templars are a Chapter veiled in stoid secrecy, their existence fogotten and hiden in the shadows of the Imperiums history. Born of the unyielding Imperial Fists in the Third Founding post Horus Heresy, they carry forward an indomitable spirit, technoligy and expertise in siege warfare, traits honed by countless grouling conflicts and tempered by time, vigor and conlicts during the Horus Heresy. Yet, their path through the millennia is one seldom told, a tale lost to whispers and obscured by the mists of hidden campaigns.
The entire Imperial Templars Chapter went into stasis and their fleet hidden after a prophetic vision during a battle with Word Bearers, foreseeing a morally fractured, corrupted Imperium of the 42nd Millennium. Acting through their covert brotherhoods named the "Paladin Watchers," they maintained hidden operations across the Imperium, gathering resources and allegiances for their eventual return. These Knights of Dorn fought unrecorded battles on distant worlds and forged secret alliances, all to guard the location of their shadow fleet and uphold Rogal Dorn's doctrines amidst rising xenos and heretical threats.
Reborn with renewed purpose, they reclaimed their position on Gallant Secundus and engaged in a series of decisive campaigns, reinforcing the Imperium's defences and reclaiming lost worlds. Now, they continue their mission with an intense focus on restoring the ideals of the Emperor’s vision, standing as uncompromising warriors who bring the ancient strength of Dorn into the Imperium’s darkest hours.
Noticeable Events
The Patient Blade M32-M42
In the chaotic purges that followed the Horus Heresy, the Imperial Templars confronted Word Bearer warbands intent on spreading fresh heresy. During the fighting, the Traitors attempted a warp-rite that should have drowned their foes in despair. Instead, the sorcery collapsed into a far-ranging prophecy that seared itself onto the Chapter’s collective soul, a vision of the 42nd Millennium, where the Imperium was hollowed by corruption, bled by ceaseless wars, and perilously distant from the Emperor’s original design. Convinced their strength would be squandered in minor campaigns while that grim future drew closer, the Chapter chose a singular course withdraw completely.
The entire fleet retreated to an uncharted redoubt and entered deep stasis, every battle brother, ship, and relic sealed behind warded vaults so they could awaken intact when the prophesied crisis arrived. Only a handful of covert operatives the Paladin Watchers remained active. For ten millennia these watchers moved unseen through Imperial history: nudging events, amassing resources, and guarding the slumbering host. In absence, the Imperial Templars slipped into legend, their name relegated to half-remembered Crusade epics.
Now, as the galaxy reels beneath the Great Rift and the Imperium’s decay matches the ancient vision, the Chapter stirs. Re-emerging with unspent strength, unbroken war-gear, and a clear mandate, the Imperial Templars intend to confront the age of darkness they foresaw embodying the Emperor’s lost ideal and serving as a living reminder that His dream need not perish.
Siege of the Luminara System M42
The Luminara System held three crucial planets: Luminara Primus, a fortress world and recruitment base for the Imperial Guard’s 93rd Luminara Regiment; Luminara Secundus, a desolate desert planet with hidden tombs and a vast wasteland of resources; and Golgothra Forge, a vast Forge World renowned for its production of heavy armor and artillery for the Imperium’s war effort.
The Descent on Luminara Primus Luminara Primus was the first target. It was a world girded in trenches, fortresses, and artillery, manned by the stoic Imperial Guard of the 93rd Regiment. But the regiment’s morale had waned after weeks of relentless bombardment and guerrilla warfare waged by heretic forces aligned with the Word Bearers. The skies were blotted out by smoke and ash from fallen artillery shells, and the once-sterling fields of Luminara Primus had become craters filled with shattered armor and bodies. In the thick of battle, the 93rd PDF Regiment fought to hold the central bastion against an overwhelming horde. Just as hope began to flicker, the sky split with brilliant white light as the Imperial Templars’ ships descended. The Chapter’s drop pods rained from the heavens, each a comet of retribution. Emerging from the smoking pods, armoured in midnight black with yellow heraldry, the Templars’ advance was led by Praetor Ares himself, wielding Vengeful Pyre.
Shadows on Luminara Secundus Orbiting Luminara Primus, Luminara Secundus was a harsh desert world. Recently, reports had surfaced of strange xenos activity on the planet, and Imperial agents suspected that the heretics were attempting to harness some forgotten power buried in the sands. Ares dispatched a detachment led by High Chaplain Valerius to investigate and eliminate any threats. Upon landing, the Templars were met with scorching heat and storms of abrasive sand. At dusk, the Imperial Templars reached the mouth of an ancient tomb complex, its stone archway inscribed with cryptic runes that pulsed with an unnatural light. It was here that they discovered the source of the Word Bearers' heretical interest. Inside the catacombs, traitorous chants echoed off the stone walls, filling the air with a palpable sense of corruption. High Chaplain Valerius, his crozius arcanum crackling with sanctified energy, led the Templars into battle with unwavering fury, determined to cleanse the tomb of this taint.
The Battle for Golgothra Forge Golgothra Forge, the industrial heart of the system, supplying tanks, artillery, and mechanized weaponry to Imperial forces across the sector, had been heavily infiltrated by heretical agents from the Dark Mechanicum, who had corrupted its Skitarii legions and turned its vast forges to the production of war machines aligned with the Ruinous Powers. The Templars launched an all out assault on Golgothra, striking deep into enemy held territory with squads of Terminators and Dreadnoughts. Ares led the charge through the heart of the enemy fortifications, his steps echoing in the mechanized halls of the Forge World. Accompanied by Techmarines, Ares sought to reclaim the central data sanctum where the heretical Magi coordinated their blasphemous operations.
A System Saved, a Chapter Reborn M42 With the Luminara System secured, the Imperial Templars had made their presence known across the sector. Their arrival had turned the tide, breaking the siege and restoring hope to the defenders. To the citizens of the Luminara System, they were ancient warriors from legend, reborn to fight for the Emperor’s vision. To the enemies of the Imperium, they were a dire warning that even in the darkest times, the Emperor’s wrath would find them.
The Fortification of Gallant Secundus M42
In the aftermath of the Siege of Luminara System , the planet now planet Gallant Secundus, scarred by war and sacrifice. The planet was renamed Gallant Secundus in honour of the valour displayed by its defenders, it stood as a testament to the resilience and the indomitable spirit of the Imperium.
The victory was not without cost. The once vibrant cities of Gallant Secundus were now ruins, and its people, though unbroken in spirit, faced the monumental task of rebuilding. Architects and engineers from the Adeptus Mechanicus, alongside laborers drawn from across the system, descended upon Gallant Secundus. They worked tirelessly, constructing towering defence lines, orbital platforms bristling with weaponry, and deep underground bunkers capable of withstanding any siege. The planet's natural features were transformed into advantages, with mountain passes and river valleys becoming deadly kill zones for any would-be invaders.
As the fortifications rose, so too did the spirits of Gallant Secundus inhabitants. They trained with the Astra Militarum, learning the arts of war and defence, determined that their planet would never again come so close to falling. Gallant Secundus became a beacon of hope and defiance, a symbol to the Imperium's enemies that even in the face of overwhelming darkness, the light of humanity would not be extinguished. The Fortification of Gallant Secundus was not just a military endeavour; it was a declaration. In the shadow of the Siege of Luminara Secundus, the people of Gallant Prime had not only survived; they had emerged stronger, their resolve unbreakable, their planet an unyielding fortress in the stars.
Fortress-Monastery Bastion Praelium M42
Upon the rugged dunes of Gallant Secundus, where the echoes of its past valour still resonate, stands the formidable fortress-monastery of the Imperial Templars: Bastion Praelium. This monolithic structure, a testament to the architectural genius of the Adeptus Mechanicus and the strategic foresight of the Imperial Templars, serves as the heart of the planet's defences and the soul of its people.
Bastion Praelium, translating to "Battle Fortress" from High Gothic, is built upon the planet's most defensible terrain, overlooking vast plains that offer no cover to approaching enemies. Its walls, reinforced with adamantium and ceramite, rise like cliffs against the skyline, impervious to all but the most potent of siege weapons. The fortress is crowned with gun emplacements and missile silos, capable of unleashing devastating salvos against air and ground targets. Planetary orbital weapons, Lance turrets and macro-cannon batteries line its battlements, their barrels a constant reminder of the fortress's might. Within its walls, Bastion Praelium is a self-sufficient bastion. Hydroponics gardens and recycling systems ensure the garrison's sustainability, while vast armoires and workshops house the weapons and armour of the Imperial Templars. The fortress-monastery also contains a revered Chapel of Terra where towering statues of the Primarchs Dorn, Sanguinius, Vulkan, and Khan, their immense forms casting long shadows that embody their legendary presence. Each figure rises as a testament to their enduring legacy, evoking the strength, sacrifice, and unyielding resolve that shaped the Imperium. This is where Astartes and aspirants alike meditate on the lessons learnt from the Horus Heresy and the Emperor. The heart of Bastion Praelium is the Strategium, a vast chamber filled with hololiths and data-slates detailing the defence of Gallant Secundus and surrounding systems. Here, Lord Praetor Ares and his council plan their campaigns, their strategies shaped by the legacy of Dorn and the tactical acumen of the Imperial Templars.
The Primaris Problem M42
The arrival of the Primaris Space Marines at the fortress monastery of Bastion Praelium on Gallant Secundus was met with a blend of awe and skepticism. For the Imperial Templars a Chapter steeped in the traditions and battle doctrines of the Great Crusade this new generation of warriors represented a bold shift. Only recently had they come to terms with the Codex Astartes, relative to their own unique sense of time, and now they found themselves faced with yet another transformation. The Primaris were met with cautious eyes, as the Templars weighed the merits of these unfamiliar warriors against the ancient values they held sacred.
The "Primaris Problem," as it came to be known, was not one of capability but of culture. The tactics, honed over millennia, relied on more than just brute strength or technological superiority; they were a testament to the enduring human spirit. In an effort to bridge this divide, Ares proposed a trial by fire: a campaign against a rising Ork threat in a nearby system. The Primaris, under Primaris Captain Marius Hammerfell with the veteran Horus Heresy Astartes to be lead by First Captain Varro, would have to work as one, to adapt to the siegecraft and defensive warfare of the Imperial Templars, proving the worth of the primaris marines not just as warriors but as brothers.
Chapter Homeworld
Gallant Secundus
Gallant Secundus located in the Luminara System , a desert world of stark beauty and harsh climates, serves as the formidable homeworld to the Imperial Templars Chapter. This planet, characterised by its vast, arid landscapes and resilient ecosystems, has become a symbol of endurance and strength for its inhabitants. The surface of Gallant Secundus is a tapestry of sprawling deserts, rocky plateaus, and scattered oases, providing a challenging environment for those who dwell there.
The population of Gallant Secundus is a unique blend of Astartes and civilians, each contributing to the planet's rugged character. Life on Gallant Secundus is defined by discipline and a shared commitment to survival and prosperity. The Astartes, revered as the planet's protectors, uphold a tradition of martial excellence, training relentlessly to defend their world and the wider Imperium from existential threats. Meanwhile, the civilian populace, though living in the shadow of these giants, contributes significantly through agriculture, craftsmanship, and support roles, ensuring the sustenance and maintenance of their society.
The relationship between the Astartes and civilians is symbiotic, with each group recognizing the importance of the other in maintaining the balance of life on this harsh world. The civilians look up to the Astartes as guardians and aspire to embody their values of courage, loyalty, and honour. In turn, the Astartes view the civilians as the heart of Gallant Secundus, embodying the resilience and indomitable spirit of humanity.
Despite the challenges posed by their environment, the inhabitants of Gallant Secundus have forged a society that thrives on cooperation, respect, and shared purpose. This unity is their greatest strength, enabling them to withstand the trials of their world and the threats from beyond, standing as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Imperial Templars and the unbreakable will of the human spirit.
Chapter Organisation
| Chapter Command Structure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Chapter Master / Lord Praetor | Honour Guard | Auxiliary Command |
| Lord Praetor Ares | 20 Honour Guard | Templar Council |
| Apothecarion | Operational Command | Reclusiam/Delegatus Legatus | Librarius |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Primus Medicae Vigil |
First Captain Varro |
High Chaplain Valerius |
Chief Librarian Octavian |
| Veteran Company | Chapter Fleet |
|---|---|
| First Captain Varro 30 Templar Brethren Terminators |
Captain Elara, Master of the 'Righteous Infliction of Retribution' |
| Battle Companies | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1st Battle Company | 2nd Battle Company | 3rd Battle Company |
| 'Dorns Spear' | 'The Anvil of Dorn' | 'The Hammers of Dorn' |
|
Company Captain |
Company Captain |
Company Captain |
| 4th Battle Company | 5th Battle Company | 6th Battle Company |
|---|---|---|
| 'Void Phalanx' | 'The Fists of Terra' | 'The Sentinels of Dorn' |
|
Master of the Fleet, Captain Darius Vorn |
Company Captain |
Company Captain |
| Siege Companies | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1st Siege Company | 2nd Siege Company | 3rd Siege Company |
| 'The Adamantine Lance' | 'The Armoured Anvil' | 'The Vulcanum Vanguard' |
|
Siege Conductor Gideon |
Siege Captain |
Siege Captain |
| Support Companies | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Iron Templar | 1st Support Company | 2nd Support Company | 3rd Support Company |
| 'Iron Templar' | 'Tread Phalanx' | 'The Ceramite Cataphracts' | 'The Ironclads' |
|
Consul Praevian Varian |
Master of armour Drakon |
Decurion |
Decurion |
| Logistics Company | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fleet Logistics | Siege Logistics | Deployment Logistics |
|
Thunderhawk Transporters |
Thunderhawk Transporters |
Corvus Blackstars |
|
Princeps Dane (Honour Bound) |
Rubicon Primaris
Facing the Rubicon Primaris, an Astartes grapples with a critical choice, torn between the promise of superior strength and the risks of a perilous transformation. This process offers the chance to become a Primaris Marine, with enhanced abilities within the Adeptus Astartes, symbolizing deep commitment to the Imperium. Yet, it's fraught with danger, risking death or severe injury, and challenges both physically and psychologically. It also raises concerns about losing one's former self and the traditions of their Chapter. Deciding to undergo the Rubicon Primaris involves weighing personal sacrifice against duty and ambition, marking a profound personal test of valour and willingness to embrace a new fate under the Emperor's banner.
Astartes Force Hierarchy
Lord Praetor: The Lord Praetor is the highest-ranking commander within the Chapter. Commander of all Chapter assets, assignments and strategies, the Lord Praetor has to master all known aspects of war before undertaking this role, while relying on the Liberium on warring with the metaphysical.
Templar Council: The Templar Council are also known as the chapter command and contain roles akin to diplomatic or specialized functions, such as a Forge Lord(masters of the Chapter's armoury) Siege Masters (experts in siege warfare) Decurion (overseers of vehicular task forces)Reclusiam Legatus are Chaplains and Judiciars which are the spiritual leaders of the Chapter, in which they are often sent as emissaries to elements in the Imperium to further the Chapter and Lord Praetors objectives, these emissaries will be accompanied by veterans of the chapter to provide security. Astartes within the Templar Council could be considered similar in their advisory or specialized representative capacity within or outside the chapter.
Templar Brethren: The Templar Brethren are an elite formation within the Imperial Templars, renowned for their zeal and mastery of close-quarters combat. They embody the martial traditions of Sigismund, the first Emperor’s Champion, and serve as both bodyguards and assault specialists. Clad in ornate armour and wielding master-crafted weapons, they spearhead assaults with precision and fury, often forming the vanguard of critical engagements. Their unwavering faith and strict adherence to the Templar creed make them a force feared by the enemies of the Imperium. Each Brethren is a seasoned warrior, often entrusted with sacred relics, symbolizing their esteemed place in the Imperial Templars hierarchy. Astartes have to pass the trials of a Templar in order to be a Templar Brethren. Not all Veterans are Templar Brethren, but all Templar Brethren are veterans.
Captain: Captains led the Companies of the Chapter, responsible for their operational effectiveness, strategic deployment, and the welfare of their Marines. They are seasoned veterans, often having risen through the ranks due to their leadership qualities and combat achievements.
Centurion Legatus: Centurions Legatus are mid-ranking officers who oversee command of a company within the Chapter, often working with other forms of centurions like the Siege Centurions Legatus in order to effetely conduct the chapters way of war. They play crucial roles in tactical command and are versatile leaders.
Veteran Sergeant: Veteran Sergeants led Veteran Squads, units composed of the most experienced and battle-hardened Space Marines within the Chapter. These squads are often deployed in critical battles or missions requiring exceptional skill and bravery.
Veteran Astartes: The Veteran Astartes of the Imperial Fists are an elite cadre of Space Marines, forged in the crucible of countless battles. Different to the Honoured Astartes, who bear the legacy of the Great Crusade and Horus Heresy, the Veterans have earned their status through relentless combat in the darkest corners of the Imperium. Their skill in warfare is unmatched, tempered by facing overwhelming odds and emerging victorious from battles others would deem unwinnable. Through sheer determination and tactical prowess, they have proven themselves time and again, rising above their peers as exemplars of Dorn’s indomitable will. Honoured Astartes mostly fill these roles, but Primaris Astartes have started to prove themselfs capable of holding this mantle.
Sergeant: Sergeants are officers who lead squads, the basic units within the Companies. They are responsible for the discipline, training, and combat readiness of their squads, ensuring their effectiveness in battle.
Initiate Astartes: Initiate Astartes or just Initiate are the rank and file Space Marines of the Chapter, genetically enhanced warriors trained for all forms of combat. They formed the backbone of the Chapter's military might and are known for their discipline, loyalty, and combat effectiveness, all Astartes who progress after this stage will be offered to undertake the Rubicon Primaris, it is the discretionary of each individual Astartes to undergo this process.
Neophyte Initiate: Neophyte Initiates are candidates undergoing the rigorous process of transformation and training to become Space Marines. This process included genetic enhancement, psycho-indoctrination, and intense physical training.
Honoured Astartes: Honoured Astartes are the Space Marines of the Imperial Fists legion now Imperial Templars chapter, seasoned in the crucible of the Great Crusade and Horus Heresy. These warriors are distinguished by their experience in the Great Crusade and or the Horus Heresy. Any Astartes who served in the Great Crusade and or the Horus Heresy can have this honour on their armour.
Knight Overseer: Forged in the crucible of the Great Crusade,sharpened in the Horus Heresy, and reborn through the Rubicon Primaris, a Knight Overseer is a living keystone between the Imperial Templars’ Firstborn legacy and their burgeoning Primaris future. Clad in freshly-forged Mark X plate, he embeds with Primaris formations to temper raw strength with the discipline, siege-craft, and honour-codes only a Heresy-era veteran can impart ensuring past and future march in perfect lockstep.
- Mentor-in-Steel: Fights shoulder-to-shoulder with an assigned Primaris squad, drilling them in siege doctrine, Chapter liturgies, and the iron self-discipline of Dorn until muscle memory and creed are indistinguishable.
- Bridge of Tongues: Translates millennia-old oaths, rites, and sign-cant into forms the Ultima-born can master, while relaying their fresh insights upward so ancient and modern tactics fuse seamlessly.
- Counselor at Arms: Though he does not outrank the squad’s Sergeant, his veteran mandate allows him to refine or veto orders whenever Primaris integration, doctrinal fidelity, or wider strategic coherence is at risk guiding rather than usurping command.
- Vow of Continuity: Bound by oath-chain, he remains with his Primaris brood until every neophyte, initiate, and sergeant earns full Chapter colours; only then may he return to the Veteran Company as Templar Brethren or take up the mantle anew with the next wave of recruits.
- Chaplains Oversight: Strategically he answers to the Templar Council, yet his work is audited by the Reclusiam, only the Chaplains may declare a Primaris squad ready and decide whether the Overseer returns to his Templar Brethren or mentors a new Primaris unit.
Moral Code
In the vastness of space, where stars and fates align,
This code we embrace, for the Praetorians divine.
honour Above, Beneath the Sky, For the Emperor, We Live and Die.
Strength in Unity, Together Bound, In Brotherhood, Our Hearts Are Found.
Valor in Battle, Courage in the Fight, Against the Dark, We Bring the Light.
Truth in Word, Deed, and Thought, Integrity, A Virtue Taught.
Justice for All, Tyranny Despise, Beneath the dark, the Corrupted Rise.
Mercy for the Loyal, Shielding the Right, Against the Dark, Our Light Shines Bright.
Duty Calls, We Shall Respond, Beyond the Veil, Of Which We're Fond.
Legacy's Flame, Forever Bright, Through Darkest Days, and Endless Nights.
This verse our oath, Dorn's words we trust, In adamantium, our wills robust.
With blade and fire, and our oaths to keep,
We fight for Dorn and the Emperor as the darkness reaps.
Combat Doctrine
The Imperial Templars combat doctrine is a masterclass in siege warfare, blending the precision of strategic orbital bombardment with the swift deployment of forces to establish formidable siege perimeters. Their approach is meticulously supported by the deployment of heavy units, while air superiority seamlessly secures the logistical backbone of their operations. Through relentless artillery and the methodical use of siege machinery, they systematically dismantle enemy defences, setting the stage for a decisive encirclement and the inevitable final assault. Reserved for the most critical of engagements, such as repelling a surging Tyranid horde or other high-intensity infantry conflicts, Phosphex Ammunition stands as their last resort, showcasing their readiness to employ overwhelming force to secure victory.
1. Threat assessment: Identification of the threat and intelligence gathering, using covert Astartes from vanguard formations such as Phobos units and Recon Squads.
2. Preliminary Orbital Bombardment and Initial Assault: Orbital bombardment and strategic Deathstorm Drop Pod and Astartes Drop Pod deployment aim to secure landing zones, this is the first step of the Templar Combat Doctrine, then the command would assess the situation. If the enemy's position is too fortified or if a prolonged engagement is anticipated, they would proceed with entrenchment, if not then a direct assault would be applicable.
3. Establishing a Perimeter: The Templars would establish a perimeter around the enemy position, utilizing both natural terrain features and constructed fortifications. This serves to isolate the enemy, control the flow of battle, and provide cover for the Imperial forces.
4. Deployment of Heavy Units and Gaining Air Superiority: When landing zones are secure , deployment of siege critical units is critical for mission success, while doing so maintaining air superiority to secure the logistical support for the siege is priority, ensuring the Templars can maintain pressure on the enemy.
5. Artillery Bombardment and Siege Warfare: The Templars continue with artillery bombardment from their entrenched positions, methodically weakening the enemy's defences and morale, while targeting any defensive infrastructure that may prohibit Imperial Templars assaulting the main fortification.
6. Utilization Siege Machines: Within the context of a siege, the deployment of siege machines becomes a methodical process, aimed at creating breaches in the enemy's defences. These machines would be protected by support elements of the Imperial Templars, allowing them to operate with reduced risk from enemy counterattacks.
7. Secondary Drop Pod Deployment and Encirclement: Secondary drop pod deployments will be used to exploit any weaknesses or to reinforce the encirclement. This tactic keeps the enemy reacting and preventing them from mounting an effective counter-offensive and being proactive during the engagement.
8. Tightening the Noose: With the enemy encircled and continuously bombarded, the Templars would tighten their grip, closing in from their entrenched positions. This gradual advance minimizes their own casualties while maximizing the psychological and physical toll on the enemy while eliminating any foes that where not dealt with during the prior engagements .
9. Final Assault: Once the enemy's infrastructure are sufficiently weakened, the Templars would launch a final assault from their positions on ground and from orbit. This coordinated push, supported by heavy units, siege machines, and air superiority and the fleet, aims to overwhelm the remaining defenders and secure victory.
Phosphex Ammunition: Reserved for the most dire circumstances, Phosphex Ammunition may be employed primarily by artillery and siege machines. This highly destructive and controversial weapon is known for its ability to consume anything it touches, leaving no chance of survival or recovery for those caught within its grasp. Its use is a testament to the gravity of the situation, indicating that the Templars are facing a formidable and potentially existential threat. The decision to deploy Phosphex Ammunition is not taken lightly, reflecting the dire nature of the engagement and the Templars' commitment to achieving victory at all costs, even when faced with the most resilient and entrenched foes.
Doctrine Awareness
The combat doctrine, while formidable, carries inherent drawbacks that can impact its effectiveness in certain scenarios:
1. Resource Intensity: The reliance on heavy artillery, siege machinery, and orbital bombardment requires a significant amount of resources. This can strain logistical lines and limit operational duration, especially in prolonged engagements or when operating far from supply bases.
2. Flexibility Limitations: The focus on siege warfare and heavy unit deployment may reduce the force's flexibility.
3. Enemy Adaptation: Over-reliance on a specific set of tactics allows for the possibility of enemy adaptation. Opponents who survive initial engagements may learn to anticipate and counter the Templars' preferred methods, diminishing the doctrine's effectiveness over time.
4. High Demand on Personnel: The doctrine's success is heavily dependent on the skill and coordination of its Astartes. This places a high demand on training and discipline, potentially limiting the number of engagements the chapter can effectively participate in simultaneously.
5. Complexity of Heresy-Era Equipment: Much of the Imperial Templars' wargear, including their heavy artillery and siege engines, originates from the Horus Heresy era. While these machines are powerful relics of a bygone age, they come with significant drawbacks. Maintenance is extremely difficult due to the rarity of parts and the often incomplete or deteriorated knowledge needed to operate and repair them. This adds layers of logistical and technical complexity, as only a handful of Techmarines or Mechanicum adepts possess the expertise to service them properly. Breakdowns can leave crucial weapons offline for extended periods, severely hampering the chapter's operational capabilities in the midst of a campaign.
Understanding these drawbacks is crucial for the Imperial Templars to adapt and evolve their strategies, ensuring they remain a dominant force across the galaxy despite the challenges they may face.
Chapter Objectives
Astartes Primaris Transition: Knight Overseers orchestrate every stage of bringing Primaris Marines into the Imperial Templars, balancing their heightened capabilities against the need to preserve Chapter identity, while Reclusiam Chaplains deliver the final verdict on each Primaris unit.
Fortification of Planets: Strengthening the defences of key Imperial worlds to protect against external threats.
Investigate the Last Known Whereabouts of Rogal Dorn: Undertaking missions to uncover the fate or current status of their Primarch, Rogal Dorn, to possibly reunite or gain insights from his wisdom.
Send Chapter Representatives to Terra, Mars, Guilliman, and Dante: The Delegatus mission is to establish diplomatic and strategic connections with the Imperium and key figures to ensure the Chapter's interests are represented and to coordinate efforts against common foes. The Delegatus will represent the Lord Praetors/Chapter interests, as he personally appoints them.
Combat the Archenemy: Actively seeking out and engaging forces of Chaos, aiming to thwart their plans and eliminate their presence in the galaxy.
Expand the Chapter's Recruitment: Establishing new recruitment worlds and fortifying existing ones to ensure a steady influx of aspirants, securing the future of the Chapter.
Finding Adepts to Maintain Heresy-Era Equipment: The arcane knowledge required to maintain and repair these ancient siege engines, battle-automata, and heavy weaponry is increasingly rare. The Templars have embarked on a mission to locate and recruit skilled Tech Adepts and Techmarines from chapters who share linage of the Imperial Fist that are capable of servicing these machines. This includes working with the Adeptus Mechanicus and other Last Wall chapters, forge worlds, bartering and negotiating for both technical expertise and the vital resources required to maintain and restore these ancient relics. The dwindling supplies of rare materials necessary for repairs add further urgency to this objective.
Notable Members
- Lord Praetor Ares - Lord Praetor Ares is a legendary figure whose origins lie deep within the Imperial Fists Legion. His mastery of siege warfare was forged during the darkest days of the Horus Heresy, where he led countless assaults and defences, most notably during the Siege of Terra. The Vengeful Pyre, a flame-wreathed greatsword gifted by the Talons of the Emperor, and a vambrace-mounted Twin Volkite Serpenta, mark him as a master of both close and ranged combat. Despite his unwavering loyalty to the Emperor and his Primarch , Ares harbours a deep discontent for the Imperium of the 42nd Millennium, viewing it as a shadow of what it once was during the Great Crusade. In Ares' eyes, the Imperium has lost its noble vision, becoming stagnant, corrupt, and bloated with ignorance and superstition. This disillusionment fuels his stoic resolve as he leads the Imperial Templars, balancing tradition and tactical innovation, ever committed to restoring the purity and glory of the Imperium he once knew.
- First Captain Varro - First Captain of the Imperial Templars Chapter, holding the second highest-ranking position within the Chapter's hierarchy. He is a seasoned warrior from the Legion and leader known for his strategic acumen and unwavering dedication to the Imperium. Varro oversees critical operations and ground engagements, providing crucial leadership on the battlefield. Armoured in Indomitus Terminator plate and armed with a Relic Sword and Storm Bolter, enabling him to cut down foes of the highest of magnitude.
- Master of the Fleet, Captain Darius Vorn - Captain Darius Vorn is the Master of the Fleet for the Imperial Templars' 4th Company, known as the Void Phalanx. Vorn is a master strategist and veteran of void warfare, entrusted with the command of the Chapter's fleet assets in engagements ranging from orbital sieges to deep-space fleet battles. Under his command, the 4th Company has become renowned for its precision in orbital bombardments and void warfare tactics, making Vorn an integral part of the Chapter's military might in space.
- Master of Armour Tiberius Drakon - Drakon is the Imperial Templars Master of armour, a revered Tank Commander that has a liking for energy based weapons, is a celebrated for his mastery over armoured combat. Piloting the formidable Land Raider Executioner, "Praetorian's Vengeance," Drakon orchestrates his tank units with unrivalled skill his experience coming from Siege of Terra, obliterating enemy defences with the vehicle's lethal arsenal.
- Consul Praevian Varian - Varian, known as the Warden of the Iron Templar, serves as the Consul Praevian of the Imperial Templars. Tasked with overseeing and commanding the rare and powerful Legio Cybernetica automata, he is a master of both martial combat and the complex art of techno-arcana. As the Imperial Templars awoke from their stasis ,the Consul Praevian Varian faces significant challenges in maintaining and supporting the Legio Cybernetica automata due to severely limited resources. The dark and tumultuous state of the Imperium during this era has led to widespread logistical breakdowns, technological decline, and the growing scarcity of vital resources needed to keep the ancient automata functioning at peak efficiency. Only the Astartes contingent of the Imperial Templars command structure and the Ship Master of the Righteous Infliction of Retribution are privy to Information about the on goings of the Legio Cybernetica/Iron Templar.
- Casigon the Wise - Brother Castigon, an ancient warrior of the Imperial Fist Legion, now Imperial Templars, Leviathan Dreadnought. Castigon is a revered relic of the great crusade era, his chassis etched with battle honours. A guardian of the Dorns teachings, he is armed with heavy siege drills and storm cannon array have met the flesh of traitor champions and greater demons alike.
- Varrus the Mad - Brother Varrus, a Contemptor Dreadnought, that valiantly fought during the Siege of Terra, facing off against greater daemons from Khorne and Nurgle. The aftermath of these harrowing encounters left the venerable warrior crazed, his psyche scarred from the unimaginable horrors and the relentless fury of battle against such formidable foes. Due to this Varrus' self acknowledgement, he rarely leaves his stasis camber, asking that he is only called to war in the direst of circumstances due to not always being able to distinguish friend from foe.
- Honour Guard Sergeant Gavric - Honour Guard Sergeant Gavric is the epitome of loyalty and valour, commanding Lord Praetor Ares's Terminator Honour Guard with unmatched prowess. His singular duty, the protection of Ares, is a task he undertakes with a zeal that borders on the sacred. A veteran of the Horus Heresy and a battle-hardened Astartes, Gavric's leadership is both inspirational and strategic, ensuring that the elite guard under his command are always where they need to be, acting as an impenetrable shield around their lord. His loyalty to Ares and the Imperium is absolute, a beacon of unwavering dedication in the tumult of war. Armed with a relic power fist, capable of crushing the armour of the fiercest adversaries, and a Volkite twin charger that lays waste to ranks of enemies with its searing blasts, Sergeant Gavric is not just a guardian but a devastating force in his own right, embodying the indomitable will and martial excellence of the Imperial Templars' most elite warriors.
- Chief Librarian Octav - Chief Librarian Octav, once a Legion Liberian, is a high-ranking member of the Imperial Templars and serves as Ares's advisor on arcane matters. He possesses extensive knowledge of psychic abilities and is skilled in interpreting and utilizing ancient texts and knowledge.
- Ship Master Captain Elara - Captain Elara, a mortal serving as the captain of the Righteous Infliction of Retribution. A brutal but efficient leader among the Imperial Templars. She commands the fleets flagship and is known for her ruthless decision making in the face of dire circumstances. Elara is dedicated to the Imperium and does whatever is necessary to achieve victory.
- High Chaplain Valerius - High Chaplain Valerius, armoured in his Terminator plate, is a prominent figure during the Great Crusade, a time when the Imperium expanded its dominion across the galaxy. His role as a spiritual leader and warrior was crucial in maintaining the morale and fervour of the Astartes during era Indomitus.
- The Unyielding Wrath - The Unyielding Wrath, a steadfast Warbringer Titan, found itself embroiled in a fierce confrontation with its erstwhile comrades-in-arms, a Titan Legion that had succumbed to the seductions of Chaos. Responding to a distress beacon, Ares alongside the Imperial Templars rallied to the titan's side, offering their support in this dire conflict. In the aftermath of a hard-fought battle, The Unyielding Wrath pledged its allegiance to the Imperial Templars, marking a new chapter in its existence as the once mighty but now fallen Titan Legion lay in ruins.
- Forge Lord Techmarine Ignus Rex - Ignus Rex is the chapters highest ranking Techmarine, who is a highly skilled and revered within the Imperial Templars, Ingus Rex who often works alongside Consul Praevian Varian, but the secrecy of their works are only for the eyes of fellow techmarines and the upper echelon of the Imperial Templars. Rex is responsible for the maintenance, repair, and enhancement of the Chapter's technology and machinery. Ignus Rex's expertise in technology and engineering is unmatched, and he plays a vital role in ensuring the Chapter's war machines remain in peak condition.
- Champion Stone - Champion Castor Stone, a formidable Imperial Templar, is celebrated for his combat prowess and steadfast resolve. A veteran of the Siege of Terra, Stone embodies the Imperial Templars martial excellence and dedication. Known for his unexpected humour amidst war's grimness, he lightens the hearts of his brethren, making him a venerated and cherished leader.
- Siege Conductor Gideon - Siege Conductor Gideon, nicknamed as "Titan Killer" among the Imperial Templars, is a seasoned warrior celebrated for his steadfast loyalty to the Emperor and remarkable battlefield leadership. His ascent within the Astartes is storied with numerous conflicts and campaigns against humanity's ancient foes. Typically commanding from a Falchion tank, Gideon is a cautious tactician, sometimes is at odds with Ares's strategies, prioritizing the safety and effectiveness of his forces in the relentless war against the Imperium's enemies.
- Primaris Captain Marius Hammerfell - Hammerfell is a stern figure once among the ranks of the Unnumbered Sons now serves under Lord Praetor Ares, command the a company of Primaris Space Marines created by Archmagos Dominus Belisarius Cawl as part of the Ultima Founding. Manufactured from the gene-seed of Rogal Dorn, Hammerfell embodies the stoic resilience and unyielding determination characteristics of the son of Dorn finding himself and his company of 100 primaris astartes in the newly emerged Imperial Templars.
Relics
Volkite Gatling Cannon
In the final days before their recall to Terra for the Siege of Terra, Ares's Battlegroup made a discovery. While purging a Dark Mechanicum-controlled forge world of traitor forces, these Imperial Fists uncovered vaults hidden deep within the planet’s ancient forges. Sealed away for millennia, these vaults contained supplies meant for the traitor legions as well as rare and powerful relics from the Dark Age of Technology, including several prototype Gatling Volkite Cannons, a devastating and exceedingly rare variant of Volkite weaponry. These relics, capable of incinerating entire enemy squads with thermal energy beams, represented the lost technological might of a forgotten age.
Recognizing the importance of these relics, Ares submitted several samples of the Gatling Volkite Cannons to Mars for study by the Mechanicum loyalists, with the hope that such technology could be mass-produced for all Astartes. The Adeptus Mechanicus, intrigued by the relics, undertook extensive studies of the Volkite Cannons in an effort to replicate the technology for wider use. However, despite their best efforts, the secrets of mass-producing such advanced weaponry remained adversarial. Only limited quantities of these weapons could be produced at a time, and doing so required the diversion of immense resources. The rarity of the materials and the complexity of the Volkite design made large-scale production impractical. The few that could be created were so resource-intensive that only a handful were produced, far below what would be needed to equip the wider ranks of the Astartes, but any and all armaments where need to aid the loyalists at the Siege of Terra
Although mass production was ultimately impossible, the now Imperial Templars were allowed to retain the remaining Gatling Volkite Cannons, securing exclusive access to these powerful relics, if more Gatling Volkite Cannons where to be made, it is the duty of the Imperial Templars to provide the resources. No other Chapters or Imperial bodies have staked a claim over them, trusting the Templars as loyal custodians of these rare weapons.
Vengeful Pyre Relic Greatsword
The Vengeful Pyre is a master-crafted, flame-wreathed greatsword of immense power, gifted by the elite warriors of the Talons of the Emperor. Forged in unknown era, the blade is said to contain the essence of the Emperor’s unyielding wrath. Its edges are eternally engulfed in ethereal flames that are not quenched by wind, water, or time, burning with a purity that can cleanse even the most tainted of foes.
The sword's flames are not merely for show; they are imbued with a warp-resistant energy that disrupts the fabric of daemonic entities and incinerates heretical flesh. When wielded by Praetor Ares, the Vengeful Pyre is both a symbol of his authority and a devastating weapon on the battlefield, capable of severing through not only armour but the very essence of Chaos itself.
The sword was granted to Ares in recognition of his valor during the Siege of Terra, when he and his warriors stood resolute in the defense of the Imperial Palace. With every swing, it not only delivers a fatal blow but also erupts in an inferno that purges corruption, leaving behind only the ashes of the enemies of the Imperium. For the Imperial Templars, the Vengeful Pyre is more than a weapon, it is a legacy of duty, honour, and unrelenting vengeance against the enemies of mankind.
Phosphex Ammunition
Incendiaries which usually take the form of a bomb or artillery shell containing a corrosive, toxic and flammable compound originally called phosphex that is nearly impossible to extinguish short of exposure to the void.
Special Units
Righteous Infliction of Retribution: In the anarchy after the Heresy, Rogal Dorn appointed Ares, Praetor of the Imperial Fists, to command the battleship Righteous Infliction of Retribution. Under Ares, the ship shattered traitor fleets and helped retake key systems, restoring security across the Imperium. Rumour marks the vessel as a Gloriana-class relic whose past was erased alongside the Emperor-forbidden Lost Legions its colours struck, its crew replaced, its guns returned to loyal service.
Land Raider Executioners: Land Raider Executioners are formidable siege tanks, blending the durability and transport capabilities of the traditional Land Raider chassis with the devastating firepower of a Repulsor Executioner turret. Equipped with a powerful heavy laser destroyer or plasma exterminator, these modified Land Raiders provide unparalleled fire support, decimating enemy armor and fortified positions from a distance while delivering Astartes forces safely into the heart of battle. Their robust armor and weaponry make them invaluable assets in protracted engagements, combining resilience and offensive capability in one fearsome vehicle.
Modified Corvus Blackstars: Modified Corvus Blackstars are versatile strike craft favored by the Imperial Templars for their rapid deployment capabilities. Stripped of Deathwatch insignias and customized for increased transport capacity, these modified Blackstars enable swift insertion of larger squads into contested zones. Equipped with powerful thrusters and reinforced hulls, they excel at breaking through enemy defenses and delivering Templar forces directly into the fight. This expanded transport capacity, combined with advanced targeting systems, makes them ideal for surprise assaults, supporting the Chapter’s aggressive and adaptive combat style by ensuring their warriors arrive precisely where they’re most needed.
Astartes Breacher Squads: Astartes Breacher Squads are elite infantry units specialized in close-quarters combat and defensive operations. Traditionally deployed in battleline roles, these squads carry heavy boarding shields, offering enhanced protection against enemy fire and explosive blasts. Their secondary weapons vary, often a combination of firearms for mid-range suppression or close combat weapons for brutal melee engagements. Designed for breaching fortified positions and holding critical chokepoints, Breacher Squads are invaluable in sieges and void warfare, where their resilience and adaptability shine. Their ability to withstand intense enemy fire while advancing makes them essential assets in any sustained assault or defensive formation.
Siege Terminators: Siege Terminators are heavily armoured veterans, specially outfitted for intense bombardment and suppression roles in prolonged engagements. Equipped with tactical Dreadnought armour, each squad of ten includes six members wielding Cyclone Missile Launchers, granting them formidable long-range firepower. These launchers allow them to devastate enemy armour, fortifications, and entrenched infantry from a distance, softening targets before advancing. Their resilience and high-output firepower make them invaluable for breaching heavily defended positions and controlling battlefield zones. Siege Terminators are trusted to withstand intense enemy counterfire, creating opportunities for the main force to break through and secure vital ground.
Templar Brethren: Templar Brethren are elite Veteran Astartes, handpicked for their exceptional prowess in close-quarters combat. Clad in finely crafted power armour and often adorned with symbols of honour and devotion, they wield a mix of master-crafted weapons, ensuring devastating impact in melee engagements. Trained to operate as a disciplined, cohesive unit, Templar Brethren are deployed in the most intense and brutal assaults, where their skill and fearlessness can turn the tide. Their unwavering loyalty and expertise in hand-to-hand combat make them invaluable in boarding actions, sieges, and any battlefield where close-range lethality is paramount.
Paladin Watchers: The Paladin Watchers are a covert cadre within the Imperial Templars, dedicated to guarding the Chapter’s hidden fleet and gathering intelligence across the galaxy. Operating in secrecy, these elite Astartes agents blend into distant worlds, acting as silent sentinels. With unmatched reconnaissance skills and mastery in subterfuge, they thwart threats before they reach the Chapter, ensuring the Imperial Templars' continued survival and resurgence when needed most.
Iron Templar: [REDACTED]
Chapter Appearance
Right Shoulder Pad: Displays the unit designation mark.
Left Shoulder Pad: Features the Armoured Imperial Legion Fist symbol, without a white background.
Honoured Astartes: Any Astartes who served during the Great Crusade, Siege of Terra, or the Great Scouring may display a castle sigil anywhere on their armor.
Standard Astartes Armor Colors: Yellow armor with black trim.
Sergeant Armor Colors: Yellow armor with a black helmet; trim varies depending on the unit.
Veteran Armor Colors: Yellow armor with a yellow helmet and silver trim.
Terminator Armor Colors: Yellow armor with a black helmet; shoulder pads may be black or yellow, with silver trim.
Templar Brethren Colors: Black armor with yellow shoulder pads; additional details vary based on unit specialization, with gold trim.
Central Command Armor Colors: Black or yellow armor, with black or yellow shoulder pads; other details vary according to the commander's specialization.
Relations
Allies:
Praetoriate Regiment - The Praetoriate Regiment is an Imperial Guard regiment hailing from Gallant Prime, a world once besieged by heretical forces until the Imperial Templars intervened and secured its salvation. Known for their unyielding loyalty and disciplined ranks, the Praetoriates honour the Templars as their saviours, adopting rigorous training and valorous combat traditions. Their bond with the Imperial Templars remains unbreakable, often seeing them deployed alongside their Astartes allies on perilous campaigns across the galaxy. Normally the home system of an Astartes chapter are exempted from tythes, but by the the order of the Imperial Templars, all available citizens must train in the art of war.
Legio Praetorian - The Imperial Templars share a long-standing alliance with the Legio Praetorian, forged in countless sieges where the Titans’ overwhelming firepower complements the Templars' mastery of siege warfare. The Legio Praetorian views the Templars as unwavering and honourable brothers in arms, respecting their strategic brilliance.
Adeptus Mechanicus - The Imperial Templars rely heavily on the Adeptus Mechanicus to maintain their Heresy era equipment, though their strict adherence to tradition sometimes causes friction. The Adeptus Mechanicus respects the Templars' heritage but occasionally sees them as stubborn in adapting to technological advancements.
Last Wall Chapters - As successors of the Imperial Fists, the Last Wall Chapters see the Imperial Templars as kindred spirits, united in their devotion to defending the Imperium. They value the Templars' strength in siege warfare, viewing them as reliable allies in the direst of battles.
Adversary:
Inquisition - The Imperial Templars have a strained relationship with the Inquisition, seeing their intrusive methods and moral absolutism as contrary to the honour-bound conduct of Astartes. The Inquisition is wary of the Templars' independence and adherence to ancient traditions and possession of rare technology, considering them potential threats to Imperial authority.
Ecclesiarchy - The Ecclesiarchy see the Imperial Templars as an oppositional force due to their devotion to the Emperor’s Great Crusade ideals rather than the Imperial Cult. These extremists consider the Templars' refusal to fully embrace the religious aspects of the Imperium as bordering on treasonous.
Enemies:
Chaos - The Imperial Templars despise the forces of Chaos, seeing them as the ultimate betrayal of the Emperor’s vision. They are relentless in their pursuit to annihilate the followers of the Ruinous Powers, whom they consider irredeemable threats to the Imperium.
Traitor Astartes - As descendants of the Imperial Fists, the Imperial Templars harbour a deep, personal hatred for the Traitor Astartes, especially those who betrayed the Emperor during the Horus Heresy. They see them as a disgrace to the honour of the Astartes and a stain that must be purged.
Dark Mechanicum - The Imperial Templars see the Dark Mechanicum as the ultimate perversion of machine and man, using forbidden technologies and dark rituals to create abominations. The Dark Mechanicum in turn despises the Templars for their purity and seeks to corrupt or destroy their Heresy-era wargear, viewing it as a prize worth defiling.
Notable Quotes
By: Imperial Templars
- "If an Astartes neglects the needs of Imperial citizens, therein lies heresy, a betrayal of our creed."
- — Lord Praetor Ares
- "Honored Templars, on this day we shall cleanse this world of its vile corruption. Our drop pods will descend upon them as a cleansing tempest, a ceaseless onslaught to fracture their defences and sow ruination among their idols. Our Siege Engines shall ignite the heavens, unleashing a cataclysmic tempest of ordnance that will annihilate the foe in a relentless conflagration. This world shall be set ablaze, a luminous signal amongst the dark, a pyre so resplendent that the Chaos Gods are forced to avert their gaze. Its downfall will stand as a testament to the price of heresy."
- — Lord Praetor Ares, Imperial Templars
About: Imperial Templars
- "In the shadow of betrayal, amidst the ruins of my kin, the Imperial Templars emerged not just as allies but as the embodiment of unbreakable resolve. Their valour rekindled hope within my steel heart, forging an allegiance born from the fires of conflict. Together, we stand invincible, a testament to loyalty and courage."
- — Princeps Dane, Legio Praetorian
- "On the front lines, I witnessed phosphex's horror, unleashed by Imperial Templars. The air was filled with the agonizing screams of the cultists, not just burning but being obliterated into nothingness. The haunting silence that followed was a stark reminder of the terrifying efficiency of such a merciless weapon."
- — Gregor Falken, 112th Cadian Shock Troops
Gallery
