— Journal Entry of Salamander [Redacted]
As the Second Galactic War drags on and many more new brothers and sisters join our ranks. I can’t help but reminisce about the day I became a battle brother on Menkent after proving my skills, morals, and devotion.
I remember feeling so… Nervous. Seeing the towering structure as nothing but a humble Neophyte at the time. The knowledge of what was awaiting inside filled my heart with excitement and anxiety all the same. But imagining our father Vulkan by my side guiding me forward. It gave me courage to step forward with my head high just as he would want of his children, especially in his home.
Much of the building is a blur after all this time. But I’ll never forget the grand hall where the ceremony takes place. Brothers and Sisters on both sides of the room holding flaming swords in a pose I remember first seeing in the broadcasts of Super Earth Parades as a kid. They were like statues almost, with me walking down the middle. Clad in my standard 117th approved and Super Earth authorized heavy Helldiver armor
I remember seeing banners lining the walls of the grand room. Each one holding the banner of the Salamanders logo and the various battalions. The room lit only by torches and candles. I couldn’t help but feel pride seeing these banners, but my gaze didn’t linger long.
As I walked towards the end of the room. I saw a grand forge. It nearly took my breath away from the sight alone. When I approached, I remembered kneeling before a member of the grand council who ordained these things. I’ll never forget what they said.
“Child of Vulkan… Do you hold in your heart the fires of our father? The vow to protect our family with the same strength and compassion as our father did before you?”
I didn’t hesitate to say yes. In my heart, there was no other answer. In my head, no doubt remained. Only a commitment to protect my family.
After hearing my answer. I remember the grand counsel member reaching into the hot open flame of the forge and pulling out a massive spear. It’s form dripping in flames.
They then moved the spear to me. Lightly tapping the blade on the side of my right shoulder, then my left. After, they had the spear gently rested over my head; drops of fire landing against my armor.
“Then may you protect this one like you protect us all father Vulken. In your will and name, your children trust.”
Their words still echo in my mind to this day, especially out in battle these days…
After that was done, I remember someone in heavy armor approaching my side. As the fire dripped across my form occasionally, the second individual used a Salamander brand on my shoulderpad.
It was hot, really hot. Never went past the armor or left any marks on my skin but at the time I couldn’t tell that.. But, despite that. I didn’t flinch, I didn’t scream. I didn’t know if it was because of my armor, my resilience to the heat, or my faith in Vulkan bringing me no harm. But regardless, I stayed put.
When it was over with. The second person left and the grand council member put the spear back into the forge before helping me off my feet.
I remember them congratulating me, saying how proud Vulkan was of his children, how fortunate Super Earth was to have brave souls like me joining the fight for Managed Democracy.
I couldn’t help but feel proud in that moment. Like Vulkan himself was somewhere close, watching with pride as another child passes the trials to become a Battle Brother and a Helldiver.
But it was what happened afterwards that stuck with me the most. After leaving the monastery I saw my family and a few Salamanders gathered outside to congratulate me.. Nearly burst into tears at the sight… Even now writing this I still well up a bit just remembering the looks of pride and joy on their faces. The simple gesture of a chocolate milk offered by one of the Salamanders gathered.
And now, sitting on my assigned Super Destroyer. Looking at my Brothers and Sisters, my family. I knew that it was my duty now to protect them just as Vulkan would without hesitation.
