
The Salamanders are among the Loyalist First Founding Chapters of the Space Marines. They initially served as the Imperium’s XVIIIth Legion during both the Great Crusade and the Horus Heresy. Before reuniting with their primarch, they were known by the name "Dragon Warriors." Their home planet is Nocturne, a harsh volcanic Death World.
Uniquely among Space Marine Chapters, the Salamanders are particularly mindful of civilian lives, viewing the protection of innocent subjects of the Emperor as one of their core responsibilities. This commitment stems from their deep ties to the people of Nocturne. Unlike most Astartes, the Salamanders maintain connections with their mortal families and the inhabitants of their homeworld even after becoming Space Marines.
After the betrayal at Istvaan, Vulkan fell into the hands of Night Haunter, Konrad Curze, who not only sought to kill him but aimed to shatter his spirit through brutal and sadistic torture. Unknown to either Primarch, Vulkan was a perpetual, repeatedly returning from death and gradually spiraling into madness. Only with a subtle intervention from the Emperor himself did Vulkan manage to break free, wielding his mighty hammer, Dawnbreaker, to escape his traitorous brother's horrific clutches. This gripping tale is recounted in Vulkan Lives by Nick Kyme. Neil Roberts' artwork in Old Earth captures Vulkan and his loyal Draaksward making their perilous journey through the Webway, striving to reach Holy Terra in time.
Per ignem purgati, in fide invicti,
Vulkan vivit, Salamandris gloria in aeternum!