Iron Helms - Revision history

Twiggy at 13:02, 3 March 2026

2026-03-03T13:02:10Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:02, 3 March 2026
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	Almost immediately it was called on to repulse an invasion of Karsk by the Mallum orcs. Under [[General]] Yevkavich Radokiya Avenka, the Helms utilized tactics that would become a watchword for cruelty within the Empire for centuries to come. Fighting alongside the Northern Eagle and the [[Wolves of War]], the Iron Helms [[Casualties#Calculating_casualties\|annihilated]] one of the invading armies, leaving a forest of orc bodies impaled on stakes along the borders of [[Karsk#Krevsaty\|Krevsaty]] - and giving rise to tales of tormented [[orc]] spectres that persist in the region to this day.		Almost immediately it was called on to repulse an invasion of Karsk by the Mallum orcs. Under [[General]] Yevkavich Radokiya Avenka, the Helms utilized tactics that would become a watchword for cruelty within the Empire for centuries to come. Fighting alongside the Northern Eagle and the [[Wolves of War]], the Iron Helms [[Casualties#Calculating_casualties\|annihilated]] one of the invading armies, leaving a forest of orc bodies impaled on stakes along the borders of [[Karsk#Krevsaty\|Krevsaty]] - and giving rise to tales of tormented [[orc]] spectres that persist in the region to this day.

	The cruelty employed by the Iron Helms against their enemies remained controversial throughout their history. In 123YE then General Ofiya Zerkovoia Sloev was [[revocation\|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine\|Assembly of the Nine]] during an ill-fated invasion of [[Skarsind]]. In the Autumn of that year, with predictions of a particularly severe winter, General Sloev led her troops in an attack against key targets that crippled the northern orc's ability to feed their troops in the alpine territory. This led to widespread starvation and the deaths of a great many human slaves. The Varushkan senators believed Ofiya was the best person to push the Thule out of Skarsind and secure it in the name of Varushka and to the outrage of the [[Cardinal\|Cardinals]] they immediately reinstated her. In the uproar that ensued, the generals of Wintermark and Navarr refused to fight alongside her, ultimately forcing the Varushkans to withdraw all their forces from the campaign to [[Imperial_history#.28154_YE.29_Skarsind_pacified\|~~pacificy~~ Skarsind]]. The Varushkans never returned to the territory, and decades later when it was finally conquered it was [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Assignment\|assigned]] as part of Wintermark.		The cruelty employed by the Iron Helms against their enemies remained controversial throughout their history. In 123YE then General Ofiya Zerkovoia Sloev was [[revocation\|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine\|Assembly of the Nine]] during an ill-fated invasion of [[Skarsind]]. In the Autumn of that year, with predictions of a particularly severe winter, General Sloev led her troops in an attack against key targets that crippled the northern orc's ability to feed their troops in the alpine territory. This led to widespread starvation and the deaths of a great many human slaves. The Varushkan senators believed Ofiya was the best person to push the Thule out of Skarsind and secure it in the name of Varushka and to the outrage of the [[Cardinal\|Cardinals]] they immediately reinstated her. In the uproar that ensued, the generals of Wintermark and Navarr refused to fight alongside her, ultimately forcing the Varushkans to withdraw all their forces from the campaign to [[Imperial_history#.28154_YE.29_Skarsind_pacified\|pacify Skarsind]]. The Varushkans never returned to the territory, and decades later when it was finally conquered it was [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Assignment\|assigned]] as part of Wintermark.

	During the reign of [[Empress Varkula]], the Iron Helms were allegedly given free reign to drive the barbarians out of Varushka on the understanding that their tactics did not harm the people of the vales. Faced with a ruthless campaign by the Iron Helms under the [[draughir]] general, Poklona Natskaya Kestovia, the Thule fought a defensive campaign that ended with their depleted armies withdrawing north across the mountains rather than risk destruction. Under the harsh discipline of the Iron Helms, Imperial forces finally [[Imperial_history#.28167_YE.29_Domination_of_Miekarova\|conquered]] [[Miekarova]], ultimately securing the northern borders of Varushka and the Empire as a whole. Coupled with their defeat in Skarsind, it would be another twenty years before the minions of the Dragons would again venture into Imperial territory.		During the reign of [[Empress Varkula]], the Iron Helms were allegedly given free reign to drive the barbarians out of Varushka on the understanding that their tactics did not harm the people of the vales. Faced with a ruthless campaign by the Iron Helms under the [[draughir]] general, Poklona Natskaya Kestovia, the Thule fought a defensive campaign that ended with their depleted armies withdrawing north across the mountains rather than risk destruction. Under the harsh discipline of the Iron Helms, Imperial forces finally [[Imperial_history#.28167_YE.29_Domination_of_Miekarova\|conquered]] [[Miekarova]], ultimately securing the northern borders of Varushka and the Empire as a whole. Coupled with their defeat in Skarsind, it would be another twenty years before the minions of the Dragons would again venture into Imperial territory.

Twiggy: /* Army Quality : Cruel */

2026-02-09T17:21:18Z

Army Quality : Cruel

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:21, 9 February 2026
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	When the Iron Helms march, above their column drift night-feathered carrion birds. In the evening and the morning, they crowd in the trees, croaking and muttering to one another. Some of the soldiers are said to speak with the birds as night falls. What they discuss, and who these soldiers are, is not a topic for open discussion.		When the Iron Helms march, above their column drift night-feathered carrion birds. In the evening and the morning, they crowd in the trees, croaking and muttering to one another. Some of the soldiers are said to speak with the birds as night falls. What they discuss, and who these soldiers are, is not a topic for open discussion.
	<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Alderei2855.jpg\|\|caption='''Alderei the Fair''', last General of the Iron Helms\|align=left\|width=300}}</div>		<div style="float:left; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Alderei2855.jpg\|\|caption='''Alderei the Fair''', last General of the Iron Helms\|align=left\|width=300}}</div>
	==Army Quality : Cruel==		==Army Quality : [[Army_qualities#Cruel\|Cruel]]==
	The core of the army is made up of former followers of a [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns\|sovereign]] known as the Charnel Lord. The [[Iron Helms]] are renowned for their [[Army_qualities#Cruel\|cruelty]], employing merciless strategy against those they face in war.		The core of the army is made up of former followers of a [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns\|sovereign]] known as the Charnel Lord. The [[Iron Helms]] are renowned for their [[Army_qualities#Cruel\|cruelty]], employing merciless strategy against those they face in war.

	{{RecentElections\|General_of_the_Iron_Helms\|the title of [[General]] of the Iron Helms}}		{{RecentElections\|General_of_the_Iron_Helms\|the title of [[General]] of the Iron Helms}}

	==Further Reading==		==Further Reading==
	* [[Daylight fading#Hunger\|Daylight fading]] - 385YE Spring Wind of Fortune discussing the artefact axe Hunger and misconceptions about the Iron Helms		* [[Daylight fading#Hunger\|Daylight fading]] - 385YE Spring Wind of Fortune discussing the artefact axe Hunger and misconceptions about the Iron Helms
	* [[Crow on the cradle]] - 379YE Wind of Fortune proposing the refounding of the Iron Helms		* [[Crow on the cradle]] - 379YE Wind of Fortune proposing the refounding of the Iron Helms

Matt: Text replacement - "Military Council" to "Military Council"

2026-01-16T09:33:27Z

Text replacement - "Military Council" to "Military Council"

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:33, 16 January 2026
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	<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="General Sasha Ivonya Pravin, Synod Inquisition, Summer Solstice, 174AE">You ask me how I sleep at night when I hear their screams? Every orc that meets the dawn impaled on a wooden spear is another shadow that will never fall over a Varushkan vale. Every sinew torn from the body is another foot that will never tread on Varushkan soil. Nobody who serves in the Helms does so in the hope that they may sleep easily at night; we serve that our children might know peace. There is no river we will not cross when the lives of those we love hang in the balance. You call me unvirtuous - am I lacking in Ambition? Do you find me bereft of Vigilance? Do you? What I am is uncivilised... Yes I have murdered and killed and my hands are covered in blood. But it is the blood of our enemies - and it stains my hands so that yours can remain clean. With your waking breath you curse us but you thank us in your dreams. Civilised people only sleep at night because we keep the wolf from your door.</quote></div>		<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="General Sasha Ivonya Pravin, Synod Inquisition, Summer Solstice, 174AE">You ask me how I sleep at night when I hear their screams? Every orc that meets the dawn impaled on a wooden spear is another shadow that will never fall over a Varushkan vale. Every sinew torn from the body is another foot that will never tread on Varushkan soil. Nobody who serves in the Helms does so in the hope that they may sleep easily at night; we serve that our children might know peace. There is no river we will not cross when the lives of those we love hang in the balance. You call me unvirtuous - am I lacking in Ambition? Do you find me bereft of Vigilance? Do you? What I am is uncivilised... Yes I have murdered and killed and my hands are covered in blood. But it is the blood of our enemies - and it stains my hands so that yours can remain clean. With your waking breath you curse us but you thank us in your dreams. Civilised people only sleep at night because we keep the wolf from your door.</quote></div>
	===Disbanding===		===Disbanding===
	The history of the original Iron Helms ended during the reign of [[Empress Mariika]]. With the Empire on the verge of bankruptcy, the Throne demanded that two Imperial armies must be disbanded. As the arguments raged in the Senate and the [[~~Military Council\|~~Military Council]], the Iron Helms were targeted by a popular campaign that painted them as being especially unvirtuous. Despite their military successes a number of priests, particularly within the [[Courage]] and [[Pride]] assemblies, remained critical of their reputation and used their platforms to denounce the Varushkan army. The timely revelation of an alleged cult of [[Agramant]] in the lower ranks of the army helped seal their fate, as did an extended period of peace along the north-eastern borders of the Empire.		The history of the original Iron Helms ended during the reign of [[Empress Mariika]]. With the Empire on the verge of bankruptcy, the Throne demanded that two Imperial armies must be disbanded. As the arguments raged in the Senate and the [[Military Council]], the Iron Helms were targeted by a popular campaign that painted them as being especially unvirtuous. Despite their military successes a number of priests, particularly within the [[Courage]] and [[Pride]] assemblies, remained critical of their reputation and used their platforms to denounce the Varushkan army. The timely revelation of an alleged cult of [[Agramant]] in the lower ranks of the army helped seal their fate, as did an extended period of peace along the north-eastern borders of the Empire.

	There were furious protests in front of the Senate and Military Council, but they came to nothing. The last General of the Iron Helms Bera Velik Pravin was more sanguine. "''Sometimes you put your axe away for a while,''" she is reported as saying. "''Then winter comes and you remember why you needed it.''"		There were furious protests in front of the Senate and Military Council, but they came to nothing. The last General of the Iron Helms Bera Velik Pravin was more sanguine. "''Sometimes you put your axe away for a while,''" she is reported as saying. "''Then winter comes and you remember why you needed it.''"

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial Military Council" to "[[Military Council"

2026-01-15T12:23:40Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Military Council" to "[[Military Council"

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:23, 15 January 2026
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	<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="General Sasha Ivonya Pravin, Synod Inquisition, Summer Solstice, 174AE">You ask me how I sleep at night when I hear their screams? Every orc that meets the dawn impaled on a wooden spear is another shadow that will never fall over a Varushkan vale. Every sinew torn from the body is another foot that will never tread on Varushkan soil. Nobody who serves in the Helms does so in the hope that they may sleep easily at night; we serve that our children might know peace. There is no river we will not cross when the lives of those we love hang in the balance. You call me unvirtuous - am I lacking in Ambition? Do you find me bereft of Vigilance? Do you? What I am is uncivilised... Yes I have murdered and killed and my hands are covered in blood. But it is the blood of our enemies - and it stains my hands so that yours can remain clean. With your waking breath you curse us but you thank us in your dreams. Civilised people only sleep at night because we keep the wolf from your door.</quote></div>		<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="General Sasha Ivonya Pravin, Synod Inquisition, Summer Solstice, 174AE">You ask me how I sleep at night when I hear their screams? Every orc that meets the dawn impaled on a wooden spear is another shadow that will never fall over a Varushkan vale. Every sinew torn from the body is another foot that will never tread on Varushkan soil. Nobody who serves in the Helms does so in the hope that they may sleep easily at night; we serve that our children might know peace. There is no river we will not cross when the lives of those we love hang in the balance. You call me unvirtuous - am I lacking in Ambition? Do you find me bereft of Vigilance? Do you? What I am is uncivilised... Yes I have murdered and killed and my hands are covered in blood. But it is the blood of our enemies - and it stains my hands so that yours can remain clean. With your waking breath you curse us but you thank us in your dreams. Civilised people only sleep at night because we keep the wolf from your door.</quote></div>
	===Disbanding===		===Disbanding===
	The history of the original Iron Helms ended during the reign of [[Empress Mariika]]. With the Empire on the verge of bankruptcy, the Throne demanded that two Imperial armies must be disbanded. As the arguments raged in the Senate and the [[~~Imperial~~ Military Council\|Military Council]], the Iron Helms were targeted by a popular campaign that painted them as being especially unvirtuous. Despite their military successes a number of priests, particularly within the [[Courage]] and [[Pride]] assemblies, remained critical of their reputation and used their platforms to denounce the Varushkan army. The timely revelation of an alleged cult of [[Agramant]] in the lower ranks of the army helped seal their fate, as did an extended period of peace along the north-eastern borders of the Empire.		The history of the original Iron Helms ended during the reign of [[Empress Mariika]]. With the Empire on the verge of bankruptcy, the Throne demanded that two Imperial armies must be disbanded. As the arguments raged in the Senate and the [[Military Council\|Military Council]], the Iron Helms were targeted by a popular campaign that painted them as being especially unvirtuous. Despite their military successes a number of priests, particularly within the [[Courage]] and [[Pride]] assemblies, remained critical of their reputation and used their platforms to denounce the Varushkan army. The timely revelation of an alleged cult of [[Agramant]] in the lower ranks of the army helped seal their fate, as did an extended period of peace along the north-eastern borders of the Empire.

	There were furious protests in front of the Senate and Military Council, but they came to nothing. The last General of the Iron Helms Bera Velik Pravin was more sanguine. "''Sometimes you put your axe away for a while,''" she is reported as saying. "''Then winter comes and you remember why you needed it.''"		There were furious protests in front of the Senate and Military Council, but they came to nothing. The last General of the Iron Helms Bera Velik Pravin was more sanguine. "''Sometimes you put your axe away for a while,''" she is reported as saying. "''Then winter comes and you remember why you needed it.''"

Twiggy at 14:38, 18 September 2025

2025-09-18T14:38:57Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:38, 18 September 2025
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	In 368YE, Karsk fell to [[Karsk#Recent_History\|invasion by the Thule]]. After a decade of fighting back and forth, the territory was liberated at the end of 378YE, and then its future secured at least in the short term by a [[Accept_Thule_peace_treaty\|treaty]] ratified in Summer 378YE. Almost immediately there were [[Crow_on_the_cradle\|calls for a new Varushkan army]]. The new army mustered under the banner of the Iron Helms. The Malinov, Sloev, and Pravin again offered support to the creation of the army, and helped provide materials and soldiers. This time however there was an additional element added to the mix - the insular people of the hills of [[Karsk#Branoc\|Branoc]], [[Karsk#Crowslook\|Crowslook]], and eastern [[Karsk#Nitrost\|Nitrost]], who had fought both alongside and against the Thule under the auspices of an ancient [[Varushkan Monster#Sovereigns\|sovereign]] known as the [[Charnel Lord]] or the Lord of the Broken Barrow. With warriors from these vales forming a significant part of the new armed forces it was perhaps inevitable that the army would have a certain darkness to its corps.		In 368YE, Karsk fell to [[Karsk#Recent_History\|invasion by the Thule]]. After a decade of fighting back and forth, the territory was liberated at the end of 378YE, and then its future secured at least in the short term by a [[Accept_Thule_peace_treaty\|treaty]] ratified in Summer 378YE. Almost immediately there were [[Crow_on_the_cradle\|calls for a new Varushkan army]]. The new army mustered under the banner of the Iron Helms. The Malinov, Sloev, and Pravin again offered support to the creation of the army, and helped provide materials and soldiers. This time however there was an additional element added to the mix - the insular people of the hills of [[Karsk#Branoc\|Branoc]], [[Karsk#Crowslook\|Crowslook]], and eastern [[Karsk#Nitrost\|Nitrost]], who had fought both alongside and against the Thule under the auspices of an ancient [[Varushkan Monster#Sovereigns\|sovereign]] known as the [[Charnel Lord]] or the Lord of the Broken Barrow. With warriors from these vales forming a significant part of the new armed forces it was perhaps inevitable that the army would have a certain darkness to its corps.

	Any hopes that the new Iron Helms would avoid controversy were immediately dashed. Straight after being mustered in Spring 381YE, the Iron Helms [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Wolf_in_the_Fold_.28Skarsind.29\|stormed Crows Keep]] in [[Skarsind]], crushing the forces of the rebellious Wintermark thane Dogri ~~Thulesbane~~ before he could launch a major raid against the [[Thule]] in the [[Sermersuaq#Silver Peaks\|Silver Peaks]], potentially destroying the recent peace treaty. The Varushkan army brought Dogri and his lieutenants to Anvil to face trial, but their actions attracted significant criticism especially the use of war dogs against Imperial citizens. Accusations were levelled that General Magnus Anatolyvich Prochnost had instructed the troops to murder the families of Wintermark citizens; accusations that were later proved to be groundless.		Any hopes that the new Iron Helms would avoid controversy were immediately dashed. Straight after being mustered in Spring 381YE, the Iron Helms [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Wolf_in_the_Fold_.28Skarsind.29\|stormed Crows Keep]] in [[Skarsind]], crushing the forces of the rebellious Wintermark thane Dogri Thulebane before he could launch a major raid against the [[Thule]] in the [[Sermersuaq#Silver Peaks\|Silver Peaks]], potentially destroying the recent peace treaty. The Varushkan army brought Dogri and his lieutenants to Anvil to face trial, but their actions attracted significant criticism especially the use of war dogs against Imperial citizens. Accusations were levelled that General Magnus Anatolyvich Prochnost had instructed the troops to murder the families of Wintermark citizens; accusations that were later proved to be groundless.

	From Skarsind they marched south to [[Mournwold]], joining the fight against the [[Jotun]]. During Summer 381YE they [[381YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#You_Can.27t_Go_Home_Again_.28Mournwold.29\|unleashed a merciless onslaught]] against the occupying barbarians. The Jotun are known to place much stock in respecting the dead - so the Iron Helms mutilated and despoiled the bodies of their fallen opponents, burning them beyond recognition and then hanging the charred remains from trees and signposts. Their presence in the Mourn was haunted by stories of prisoners torn apart by dogs, of captured Jotun warriors impaled on rough stakes in front of their fellow orcs. While the Iron Helms were scrupulous in obeying the orders of general Magnus - no civilian was harmed by design - any enemy who dares to raise a weapon against the Empire faced an agonising death at the hands of the Iron Helms. Word soon spread throughout the territory: the Empire had returned, and brought a bloody murder with them to the Mourn. While they missed the [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Let_That_Be_Your_Last_Battlefield_.28Mournwold.29\|Harrowing of the Mournwold]] by several months, their cruelty in dealing with their Jotun enemies is still remembered in the Marches.		From Skarsind they marched south to [[Mournwold]], joining the fight against the [[Jotun]]. During Summer 381YE they [[381YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#You_Can.27t_Go_Home_Again_.28Mournwold.29\|unleashed a merciless onslaught]] against the occupying barbarians. The Jotun are known to place much stock in respecting the dead - so the Iron Helms mutilated and despoiled the bodies of their fallen opponents, burning them beyond recognition and then hanging the charred remains from trees and signposts. Their presence in the Mourn was haunted by stories of prisoners torn apart by dogs, of captured Jotun warriors impaled on rough stakes in front of their fellow orcs. While the Iron Helms were scrupulous in obeying the orders of general Magnus - no civilian was harmed by design - any enemy who dares to raise a weapon against the Empire faced an agonising death at the hands of the Iron Helms. Word soon spread throughout the territory: the Empire had returned, and brought a bloody murder with them to the Mourn. While they missed the [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Let_That_Be_Your_Last_Battlefield_.28Mournwold.29\|Harrowing of the Mournwold]] by several months, their cruelty in dealing with their Jotun enemies is still remembered in the Marches.

Twiggy at 21:57, 18 August 2025

2025-08-18T21:57:17Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:57, 18 August 2025
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	{{RecentElections\|General_of_the_Iron_Helms\|the title of [[General]] of the Iron Helms}}		{{RecentElections\|General_of_the_Iron_Helms\|the title of [[General]] of the Iron Helms}}
	==Further Reading==		==Further Reading==
	* [[Daylight fading#Hunger\|Daylight fading]] - 385YE Spring Wind of Fortune discussing the ~~artifact~~ axe Hunger and misconceptions about the Iron Helms		* [[Daylight fading#Hunger\|Daylight fading]] - 385YE Spring Wind of Fortune discussing the artefact axe Hunger and misconceptions about the Iron Helms
	* [[Crow on the cradle]] - 379YE Wind of Fortune proposing the refounding of the Iron Helms		* [[Crow on the cradle]] - 379YE Wind of Fortune proposing the refounding of the Iron Helms

Twiggy at 13:03, 16 July 2025

2025-07-16T13:03:45Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:03, 16 July 2025
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	From Skarsind they marched south to [[Mournwold]], joining the fight against the [[Jotun]]. During Summer 381YE they [[381YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#You_Can.27t_Go_Home_Again_.28Mournwold.29\|unleashed a merciless onslaught]] against the occupying barbarians. The Jotun are known to place much stock in respecting the dead - so the Iron Helms mutilated and despoiled the bodies of their fallen opponents, burning them beyond recognition and then hanging the charred remains from trees and signposts. Their presence in the Mourn was haunted by stories of prisoners torn apart by dogs, of captured Jotun warriors impaled on rough stakes in front of their fellow orcs. While the Iron Helms were scrupulous in obeying the orders of general Magnus - no civilian was harmed by design - any enemy who dares to raise a weapon against the Empire faced an agonising death at the hands of the Iron Helms. Word soon spread throughout the territory: the Empire had returned, and brought a bloody murder with them to the Mourn. While they missed the [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Let_That_Be_Your_Last_Battlefield_.28Mournwold.29\|Harrowing of the Mournwold]] by several months, their cruelty in dealing with their Jotun enemies is still remembered in the Marches.		From Skarsind they marched south to [[Mournwold]], joining the fight against the [[Jotun]]. During Summer 381YE they [[381YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#You_Can.27t_Go_Home_Again_.28Mournwold.29\|unleashed a merciless onslaught]] against the occupying barbarians. The Jotun are known to place much stock in respecting the dead - so the Iron Helms mutilated and despoiled the bodies of their fallen opponents, burning them beyond recognition and then hanging the charred remains from trees and signposts. Their presence in the Mourn was haunted by stories of prisoners torn apart by dogs, of captured Jotun warriors impaled on rough stakes in front of their fellow orcs. While the Iron Helms were scrupulous in obeying the orders of general Magnus - no civilian was harmed by design - any enemy who dares to raise a weapon against the Empire faced an agonising death at the hands of the Iron Helms. Word soon spread throughout the territory: the Empire had returned, and brought a bloody murder with them to the Mourn. While they missed the [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Let_That_Be_Your_Last_Battlefield_.28Mournwold.29\|Harrowing of the Mournwold]] by several months, their cruelty in dealing with their Jotun enemies is still remembered in the Marches.

	Winter 381YE saw them [[381YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#Living_in_the_Night\|engaged with the Grendel]] in Spiral. There they balanced the need to claim ground with the desire to kill the southern orcs. Not everyone welcomed their presence. Soldiers of the [[Fire of the South]], [[Red Wind Corsairs]], and the [[Green Shield\|Green Shields]] refused to fight alongside them. They fought alongside the [[Wolves of War]] and [[Citadel Guard]] in the north. The Varushkan army kept their cruelty carefully leashed, but the orcs were very much aware of their presence. Even without the warning provided by their dark banners and the flocks of carrion birds that drifted in their wake, the presence of the [[Black Plateau]] seemed to make their advance even more pronounced. Even some Imperials suffered nightmares of being savaged by terrible red-eyed soot-black hounds with iron teeth.		Winter 381YE saw them [[381YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#Living_in_the_Night\|engaged with the Grendel]] in Spiral. There they balanced the need to claim ground with the desire to kill the southern orcs. Not everyone welcomed their presence. Soldiers of the [[Fire of the South]], [[Red Wind Corsairs]], and the [[Green Shield\|Green Shields]] refused to fight alongside them. They fought alongside the [[Wolves of War]] and [[Citadel Guard]] in the north. The Varushkan army kept their cruelty carefully leashed, but the orcs were very much aware of their presence. Even without the warning provided by their dark banners and the flocks of carrion birds that drifted in their wake, the presence of the [[Spiral#The_Black_Plateau\|{{Black Plateau}}]] seemed to make their advance even more pronounced. Even some Imperials suffered nightmares of being savaged by terrible red-eyed soot-black hounds with iron teeth.

	Opinion is divided as to what role the Iron Helms played in the devastation that struck the Urizen territory. It is a matter of record that the Helms invoked sinister pacts in the shadow of the Black Plateau. Supported by magicians from the darkest parts of Varushka - cabalists well versed in the arts of bargaining, and the sinister entities they had bound. Any orc that fell into their hands was torn apart by dogs, crucified, ripped limb from limb, impaled... and perhaps egged on by the spirit of the Plateau itself their cruelty only escalated. Exactly what happened is known only to the Varushkans who were there, but in some way the actions of the Iron Helms caused the Black Plateau to [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Leviathan_Wakes_.28Spiral.29\|fully awake]], sending waves of terror, despair, and hatred out across the whole of Spiral.		Opinion is divided as to what role the Iron Helms played in the devastation that struck the Urizen territory. It is a matter of record that the Helms invoked sinister pacts in the shadow of the {{Black Plateau}}. Supported by magicians from the darkest parts of Varushka - cabalists well versed in the arts of bargaining, and the sinister entities they had bound. Any orc that fell into their hands was torn apart by dogs, crucified, ripped limb from limb, impaled... and perhaps egged on by the spirit of the Plateau itself their cruelty only escalated. Exactly what happened is known only to the Varushkans who were there, but in some way the actions of the Iron Helms caused the {{Black Plateau}} to [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Leviathan_Wakes_.28Spiral.29\|fully awake]], sending waves of terror, despair, and hatred out across the whole of Spiral.

	For the rest of that tumultuous Spring, everyone in the territory - human and orc alike - was left with a profound awareness of the Iron Helms. They knew where they were, and they knew every time one of them slaughtered an orc. Both Imperial and Grendel were painfully aware in their dreams and waking nightmares of every cruelty the Varushkans inflicted on the enemies of the Empire. The presence of the Helms at the Battle of Solen's Doubt practically unhinged some of the Grendel fighting there, and two entire orc armies - the Sand Pipers and the Stone Gyre - tore themselves apart in the face of the terror they inspired.		For the rest of that tumultuous Spring, everyone in the territory - human and orc alike - was left with a profound awareness of the Iron Helms. They knew where they were, and they knew every time one of them slaughtered an orc. Both Imperial and Grendel were painfully aware in their dreams and waking nightmares of every cruelty the Varushkans inflicted on the enemies of the Empire. The presence of the Helms at the Battle of Solen's Doubt practically unhinged some of the Grendel fighting there, and two entire orc armies - the Sand Pipers and the Stone Gyre - tore themselves apart in the face of the terror they inspired.
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	Then, rather than rest on their laurels, [[382YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#In_Flagrante_.28Spiral.29\|as Spring matured into Summer]] the Iron Helms engaged in [[Army_qualities#Cruel\|a campaign of wholesale terror and slaughter]] against every [[orc]] they could find. Without the [[Not_dark_yet#We_Haven.27t_Even_Started\|supernatural terror unleashed by their magicians]] during the previous season, they were forced to rely on more mundane tools of torture and execution - but they proved their expertise in such matters time and again. There are few enough orcs left in the territory - the Grendel appear to have made a full retreat - but some still fall into the hands of the Varushkan soldiers of the Iron Helms and suffered for it. The Grendel defenders of Apulian threw themselves into the waters of the Bay of Catazar rather than face the fate that awaited them if they fell into the hands of the Varushkans.		Then, rather than rest on their laurels, [[382YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#In_Flagrante_.28Spiral.29\|as Spring matured into Summer]] the Iron Helms engaged in [[Army_qualities#Cruel\|a campaign of wholesale terror and slaughter]] against every [[orc]] they could find. Without the [[Not_dark_yet#We_Haven.27t_Even_Started\|supernatural terror unleashed by their magicians]] during the previous season, they were forced to rely on more mundane tools of torture and execution - but they proved their expertise in such matters time and again. There are few enough orcs left in the territory - the Grendel appear to have made a full retreat - but some still fall into the hands of the Varushkan soldiers of the Iron Helms and suffered for it. The Grendel defenders of Apulian threw themselves into the waters of the Bay of Catazar rather than face the fate that awaited them if they fell into the hands of the Varushkans.

	The actions of the Iron Helms were deeply controversial, while they actions appeared to enjoy the support of many Urizeni citizens who attended Anvil, most of the ordinary magicians who lived in Spiral blamed them for the doom that befell the territory. The Black Plateau has subsided a little, but shows no sign of returning to fitful slumber. Many are convinced that not only did the Iron helms rouse the spirit of the Plateau, but their continued cruelties after the Battle of Solen's Doubt strengthened it even further and anchored the malignant presence that hangs over the entire territory to this day.		The actions of the Iron Helms were deeply controversial, while they actions appeared to enjoy the support of many Urizeni citizens who attended Anvil, most of the ordinary magicians who lived in Spiral blamed them for the doom that befell the territory. The {{Black Plateau}} has subsided a little, but shows no sign of returning to fitful slumber. Many are convinced that not only did the Iron helms rouse the spirit of the Plateau, but their continued cruelties after the Battle of Solen's Doubt strengthened it even further and anchored the malignant presence that hangs over the entire territory to this day.

	Despite continued criticism, the Iron Helms remained in Urizen. In Winter 382YE, they participated in the [[382YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#Pool_Among_the_Rock\|trap laid for the Druj at Canterspire]], and as Spring 383YE dawned they helped to [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#The_Pass\|hound the fleeing orcs of the Mallum out of Morrow entirely]].		Despite continued criticism, the Iron Helms remained in Urizen. In Winter 382YE, they participated in the [[382YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#Pool_Among_the_Rock\|trap laid for the Druj at Canterspire]], and as Spring 383YE dawned they helped to [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#The_Pass\|hound the fleeing orcs of the Mallum out of Morrow entirely]].

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	After a short visit to the city of [[Sarvos]] to resupply (during which time controversy continued to dog them in the shape of stories that the [[Quickening Cold Meat\|shambling unliving horrors]] fighting alongside them were [[The_DOOM_that_came_to_Sarvos#Rising_Corpses\|preying on League citizens]]), they returned to Urizen. Winter 383YE saw them [[383YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#Power_of_Three\|campaigning to liberate Zenith]]. While their allies tried to secure Clypion, the Iron Helms focussed on [[Army orders#Cruel\|striking fear into the hearts of the Druj]]. Taking no prisoners, neither offering nor asking any quarter the Helms missed no opportunity to demoralise the forces arrayed against them. Wherever they fought, they unleashed the shambling horrors that fought beside them to devour the fallen, and the Winter spirits that ride within the rotten cadavers rarely bothered to wait for their prey to be dead before they begin to feast. Fat carrion crows drifted over the foothills of Clypion, and the triumphant howls of the Helm's war dogs echoed through the valleys.		After a short visit to the city of [[Sarvos]] to resupply (during which time controversy continued to dog them in the shape of stories that the [[Quickening Cold Meat\|shambling unliving horrors]] fighting alongside them were [[The_DOOM_that_came_to_Sarvos#Rising_Corpses\|preying on League citizens]]), they returned to Urizen. Winter 383YE saw them [[383YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#Power_of_Three\|campaigning to liberate Zenith]]. While their allies tried to secure Clypion, the Iron Helms focussed on [[Army orders#Cruel\|striking fear into the hearts of the Druj]]. Taking no prisoners, neither offering nor asking any quarter the Helms missed no opportunity to demoralise the forces arrayed against them. Wherever they fought, they unleashed the shambling horrors that fought beside them to devour the fallen, and the Winter spirits that ride within the rotten cadavers rarely bothered to wait for their prey to be dead before they begin to feast. Fat carrion crows drifted over the foothills of Clypion, and the triumphant howls of the Helm's war dogs echoed through the valleys.

			TBC

			Following the Autumn Equinox 386YE, the Iron Helms joined the attempt to drive the [[Druj]] out of [[Therunin]]. Unfortunately, they and their fellow Imperial armies were massively outnumbered and snared by a [[Under eastern skies\|magical trap]]. The Iron Helms fell securing the escape of their fellows into [[the Barrens]] - but in an event some claim bordered on the miraculous the soldiers [[Under_eastern_skies#Onwards_Through_the_Snow\|continued to fight]] even after they had been slain. The army disbanded, but that did not quench their thirst for the blood of the Druj.

	===Controversy===		===Controversy===

Wrenna at 20:31, 15 March 2025

2025-03-15T20:31:57Z

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	The first army to bear this name fell victim to the budget reforms of [[Empress Mariika]]. In 379YE, the Senator for [[Karov]], '''Maximov Goraniv Strascovich''', received authority from the [[Senate]] to [[Raise Varushkan army\|raise]] the army. It was completed shortly before the Winter solstice 380YE. The core of the army was made up of former followers of a [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns\|sovereign]] known as the Charnel Lord. The [[Iron Helms]] were renowned for their [[Army_qualities#Cruel\|cruelty]], employing merciless strategy against those they faced in war. The Iron Helms were lost following the Autumn Equinox 386YE during the [[Under eastern skies\|campaign]] in [[Therunin]] against the [[Druj]].		The first army to bear this name fell victim to the budget reforms of [[Empress Mariika]]. In 379YE, the Senator for [[Karov]], '''Maximov Goraniv Strascovich''', received authority from the [[Senate]] to [[Raise Varushkan army\|raise]] the army. It was completed shortly before the Winter solstice 380YE. The core of the army was made up of former followers of a [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns\|sovereign]] known as the Charnel Lord. The [[Iron Helms]] were renowned for their [[Army_qualities#Cruel\|cruelty]], employing merciless strategy against those they faced in war. The Iron Helms were lost following the Autumn Equinox 386YE during the [[Under eastern skies\|campaign]] in [[Therunin]] against the [[Druj]].

	The third Varushkan general led the Iron Helms army, and was is appointed (or re-appointed) at the Spring Equinox each year.		The third Varushkan general led the Iron Helms army, and was appointed (or re-appointed) at the Spring Equinox each year.

	==History==		==History==

Hailmur at 15:43, 25 February 2025

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	{{CaptionedImage\|file=IronHelms_Colour.png\|align=right\|width=300}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=IronHelms_Colour.png\|align=right\|width=300}}
	==Overview==		==Overview==
	The first army to bear this name fell victim to the budget reforms of [[Empress Mariika]]. In 379YE, the Senator for [[Karov]], Maximov Goraniv Strascovich, received authority from the [[Senate]] to [[Raise Varushkan army\|raise]] the army. It was completed shortly before the Winter solstice 380YE. The core of the army is made up of former followers of a [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns\|sovereign]] known as the Charnel Lord. The [[Iron Helms]] ~~are~~ renowned for their [[Army_qualities#Cruel\|cruelty]], employing merciless strategy against those they ~~face~~ in war.		The first army to bear this name fell victim to the budget reforms of [[Empress Mariika]]. In 379YE, the Senator for [[Karov]], '''Maximov Goraniv Strascovich''', received authority from the [[Senate]] to [[Raise Varushkan army\|raise]] the army. It was completed shortly before the Winter solstice 380YE. The core of the army was made up of former followers of a [[Varushkan_Monster#Sovereigns\|sovereign]] known as the Charnel Lord. The [[Iron Helms]] were renowned for their [[Army_qualities#Cruel\|cruelty]], employing merciless strategy against those they faced in war. The Iron Helms were lost following the Autumn Equinox 386YE during the [[Under eastern skies\|campaign]] in [[Therunin]] against the [[Druj]].

			The third Varushkan general led the Iron Helms army, and was is appointed (or re-appointed) at the Spring Equinox each year.

	~~The third Varushkan general leads the Army of the Iron Helms army, and is appointed (or re-appointed) at the Spring equinox each year.~~
	==History==		==History==
	The Iron Helms were the second Imperial army raised in Varushka, after the [[Northern Eagle]]. Recruited following the conquest of Karsk, much of the funding was provided by the "miners of [[Karsk#Moresvah\|Moresvah]]" - politically active members of the Malinov, Sloev and Pravin families. Presenting the motion, Lyudmachia Pavilenka Malinov, the first [[Senator]] of Karsk, made much of the need to secure the Empire's northern borders against the Thule, and of the importance of having an army in the East that could match the fearful threat of the orcs of [[the Mallum]]. Recruitment favoured the most ruthless Varushkan soldiers, with an emphasis on [[Varushka_military_concerns#Wagon_Raiders_and_Sell_Swords\|wagon raiders and sell swords]] unburdened by qualms of conscience. The army proved controversial even before it had fully mustered, with Senator Malinov extending an invitation to the children of those who had fought for [[Alderei the Fair]], provided they swore oaths of loyalty to [[Varushka_Egregore#Mother_Varushka\|Mother Varushka]]. Despite stiff opposition from some quarters - allegedly involving [[Empress Richilde]] herself - the army finally mustered in Moresvah in the Autumn of 47YE.		The Iron Helms were the second Imperial army raised in Varushka, after the [[Northern Eagle]]. Recruited following the conquest of Karsk, much of the funding was provided by the "miners of [[Karsk#Moresvah\|Moresvah]]" - politically active members of the Malinov, Sloev and Pravin families. Presenting the motion, Lyudmachia Pavilenka Malinov, the first [[Senator]] of Karsk, made much of the need to secure the Empire's northern borders against the Thule, and of the importance of having an army in the East that could match the fearful threat of the orcs of [[the Mallum]]. Recruitment favoured the most ruthless Varushkan soldiers, with an emphasis on [[Varushka_military_concerns#Wagon_Raiders_and_Sell_Swords\|wagon raiders and sell swords]] unburdened by qualms of conscience. The army proved controversial even before it had fully mustered, with Senator Malinov extending an invitation to the children of those who had fought for [[Alderei the Fair]], provided they swore oaths of loyalty to [[Varushka_Egregore#Mother_Varushka\|Mother Varushka]]. Despite stiff opposition from some quarters - allegedly involving [[Empress Richilde]] herself - the army finally mustered in Moresvah in the Autumn of 47YE.

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	Almost immediately it was called on to repulse an invasion of Karsk by the Mallum orcs. Under [[General]] Yevkavich Radokiya Avenka, the Helms utilized tactics that would become a watchword for cruelty within the Empire for centuries to come. Fighting alongside the Northern Eagle and the [[Wolves of War]], the Iron Helms [[Casualties#Calculating_casualties\|annihilated]] one of the invading armies, leaving a forest of orc bodies impaled on stakes along the borders of [[Karsk#Krevsaty\|Krevsaty]] - and giving rise to tales of tormented [[orc]] spectres that persist in the region to this day.		Almost immediately it was called on to repulse an invasion of Karsk by the Mallum orcs. Under [[General]] Yevkavich Radokiya Avenka, the Helms utilized tactics that would become a watchword for cruelty within the Empire for centuries to come. Fighting alongside the Northern Eagle and the [[Wolves of War]], the Iron Helms [[Casualties#Calculating_casualties\|annihilated]] one of the invading armies, leaving a forest of orc bodies impaled on stakes along the borders of [[Karsk#Krevsaty\|Krevsaty]] - and giving rise to tales of tormented [[orc]] spectres that persist in the region to this day.

	The cruelty employed by the Iron Helms against their enemies remained controversial throughout their history. In 123YE then General Ofiya Zerkovoia Sloev was [[revocation\|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine\|Assembly of the Nine]] during an ill-fated invasion of [[Skarsind]]. In the Autumn of that year, with predictions of a particularly severe winter, General Sloev led her troops in an attack against key targets that crippled the northern orc's ability to feed their troops in the alpine territory. This led to widespread starvation and the deaths of a great many human slaves. The Varushkan senators believed Ofiya was the best person to push the Thule out of Skarsind and secure it in the name of Varushka and to the outrage of the [[Cardinal\|Cardinals]] they immediately reinstated her. In the uproar that ensued, the generals of Wintermark and Navarr refused to fight alongside her, ultimately forcing the Varushkans to withdraw all their forces from the campaign to [[Imperial_history#.28154_YE.29_Skarsind_pacified\|~~pacificy~~ Skarsind]]. The Varushkans never returned to the territory, and decades later when it was finally conquered it was [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Assignment\|assigned]] as part of Wintermark.		The cruelty employed by the Iron Helms against their enemies remained controversial throughout their history. In 123YE then General Ofiya Zerkovoia Sloev was [[revocation\|revoked]] by the [[Assembly#Assembly_of_the_Nine\|Assembly of the Nine]] during an ill-fated invasion of [[Skarsind]]. In the Autumn of that year, with predictions of a particularly severe winter, General Sloev led her troops in an attack against key targets that crippled the northern orc's ability to feed their troops in the alpine territory. This led to widespread starvation and the deaths of a great many human slaves. The Varushkan senators believed Ofiya was the best person to push the Thule out of Skarsind and secure it in the name of Varushka and to the outrage of the [[Cardinal\|Cardinals]] they immediately reinstated her. In the uproar that ensued, the generals of Wintermark and Navarr refused to fight alongside her, ultimately forcing the Varushkans to withdraw all their forces from the campaign to [[Imperial_history#.28154_YE.29_Skarsind_pacified\|pacify Skarsind]]. The Varushkans never returned to the territory, and decades later when it was finally conquered it was [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Assignment\|assigned]] as part of Wintermark.

	During the reign of [[Empress Varkula]], the Iron Helms were allegedly given free reign to drive the barbarians out of Varushka on the understanding that their tactics did not harm the people of the vales. Faced with a ruthless campaign by the Iron Helms under the [[draughir]] general, Poklona Natskaya Kestovia, the Thule fought a defensive campaign that ended with their depleted armies withdrawing north across the mountains rather than risk destruction. Under the harsh discipline of the Iron Helms, Imperial forces finally [[Imperial_history#.28167_YE.29_Domination_of_Miekarova\|conquered]] [[Miekarova]], ultimately securing the northern borders of Varushka and the Empire as a whole. Coupled with their defeat in Skarsind, it would be another twenty years before the minions of the Dragons would again venture into Imperial territory.		During the reign of [[Empress Varkula]], the Iron Helms were allegedly given free reign to drive the barbarians out of Varushka on the understanding that their tactics did not harm the people of the vales. Faced with a ruthless campaign by the Iron Helms under the [[draughir]] general, Poklona Natskaya Kestovia, the Thule fought a defensive campaign that ended with their depleted armies withdrawing north across the mountains rather than risk destruction. Under the harsh discipline of the Iron Helms, Imperial forces finally [[Imperial_history#.28167_YE.29_Domination_of_Miekarova\|conquered]] [[Miekarova]], ultimately securing the northern borders of Varushka and the Empire as a whole. Coupled with their defeat in Skarsind, it would be another twenty years before the minions of the Dragons would again venture into Imperial territory.

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	In 368YE, Karsk fell to [[Karsk#Recent_History\|invasion by the Thule]]. After a decade of fighting back and forth, the territory was liberated at the end of 378YE, and then its future secured at least in the short term by a [[Accept_Thule_peace_treaty\|treaty]] ratified in Summer 378YE. Almost immediately there were [[Crow_on_the_cradle\|calls for a new Varushkan army]]. The new army mustered under the banner of the Iron Helms. The Malinov, Sloev, and Pravin again offered support to the creation of the army, and helped provide materials and soldiers. This time however there was an additional element added to the mix - the insular people of the hills of [[Karsk#Branoc\|Branoc]], [[Karsk#Crowslook\|Crowslook]], and eastern [[Karsk#Nitrost\|Nitrost]], who had fought both alongside and against the Thule under the auspices of an ancient [[Varushkan Monster#Sovereigns\|sovereign]] known as the [[Charnel Lord]] or the Lord of the Broken Barrow. With warriors from these vales forming a significant part of the new armed forces it was perhaps inevitable that the army would have a certain darkness to its corps.		In 368YE, Karsk fell to [[Karsk#Recent_History\|invasion by the Thule]]. After a decade of fighting back and forth, the territory was liberated at the end of 378YE, and then its future secured at least in the short term by a [[Accept_Thule_peace_treaty\|treaty]] ratified in Summer 378YE. Almost immediately there were [[Crow_on_the_cradle\|calls for a new Varushkan army]]. The new army mustered under the banner of the Iron Helms. The Malinov, Sloev, and Pravin again offered support to the creation of the army, and helped provide materials and soldiers. This time however there was an additional element added to the mix - the insular people of the hills of [[Karsk#Branoc\|Branoc]], [[Karsk#Crowslook\|Crowslook]], and eastern [[Karsk#Nitrost\|Nitrost]], who had fought both alongside and against the Thule under the auspices of an ancient [[Varushkan Monster#Sovereigns\|sovereign]] known as the [[Charnel Lord]] or the Lord of the Broken Barrow. With warriors from these vales forming a significant part of the new armed forces it was perhaps inevitable that the army would have a certain darkness to its corps.

	Any hopes that the new Iron Helms would avoid controversy were immediately dashed. Straight after being mustered in Spring 381YE, the Iron Helms [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Wolf_in_the_Fold_.28Skarsind.29\|stormed Crows Keep]] in [[Skarsind]], crushing the forces of the rebellious Wintermark thane Dogri ~~Thulesbane~~ before he could launch a major raid against the [[Thule]] in the [[Sermersuaq#Silver Peaks\|Silver Peaks]], potentially destroying the recent peace treaty. The Varushkan army brought Dogri and his lieutenants to Anvil to face trial, but their actions attracted significant criticism especially the use of war dogs against Imperial citizens. Accusations were levelled that General Magnus Anatolyvich Prochnost had instructed the troops to murder the families of Wintermark citizens; accusations that were later proved to be groundless.		Any hopes that the new Iron Helms would avoid controversy were immediately dashed. Straight after being mustered in Spring 381YE, the Iron Helms [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Wolf_in_the_Fold_.28Skarsind.29\|stormed Crows Keep]] in [[Skarsind]], crushing the forces of the rebellious Wintermark thane Dogri Thulebane before he could launch a major raid against the [[Thule]] in the [[Sermersuaq#Silver Peaks\|Silver Peaks]], potentially destroying the recent peace treaty. The Varushkan army brought Dogri and his lieutenants to Anvil to face trial, but their actions attracted significant criticism especially the use of war dogs against Imperial citizens. Accusations were levelled that General Magnus Anatolyvich Prochnost had instructed the troops to murder the families of Wintermark citizens; accusations that were later proved to be groundless.

	From Skarsind they marched south to [[Mournwold]], joining the fight against the [[Jotun]]. During Summer 381YE they [[381YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#You_Can.27t_Go_Home_Again_.28Mournwold.29\|unleashed a merciless onslaught]] against the occupying barbarians. The Jotun are known to place much stock in respecting the dead - so the Iron Helms mutilated and despoiled the bodies of their fallen opponents, burning them beyond recognition and then hanging the charred remains from trees and signposts. Their presence in the Mourn was haunted by stories of prisoners torn apart by dogs, of captured Jotun warriors impaled on rough stakes in front of their fellow orcs. While the Iron Helms were scrupulous in obeying the orders of general Magnus - no civilian was harmed by design - any enemy who dares to raise a weapon against the Empire faced an agonising death at the hands of the Iron Helms. Word soon spread throughout the territory: the Empire had returned, and brought a bloody murder with them to the Mourn. While they missed the [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Let_That_Be_Your_Last_Battlefield_.28Mournwold.29\|Harrowing of the Mournwold]] by several months, their cruelty in dealing with their Jotun enemies is still remembered in the Marches.		From Skarsind they marched south to [[Mournwold]], joining the fight against the [[Jotun]]. During Summer 381YE they [[381YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#You_Can.27t_Go_Home_Again_.28Mournwold.29\|unleashed a merciless onslaught]] against the occupying barbarians. The Jotun are known to place much stock in respecting the dead - so the Iron Helms mutilated and despoiled the bodies of their fallen opponents, burning them beyond recognition and then hanging the charred remains from trees and signposts. Their presence in the Mourn was haunted by stories of prisoners torn apart by dogs, of captured Jotun warriors impaled on rough stakes in front of their fellow orcs. While the Iron Helms were scrupulous in obeying the orders of general Magnus - no civilian was harmed by design - any enemy who dares to raise a weapon against the Empire faced an agonising death at the hands of the Iron Helms. Word soon spread throughout the territory: the Empire had returned, and brought a bloody murder with them to the Mourn. While they missed the [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Let_That_Be_Your_Last_Battlefield_.28Mournwold.29\|Harrowing of the Mournwold]] by several months, their cruelty in dealing with their Jotun enemies is still remembered in the Marches.