Ishuzan Stormborn
 This article is about an Imperial Army formation from the /tg/ Heresy project, a fan re-working of the Warhammer 40k universe. |
| Ishuzan Stormborn | ||
|---|---|---|
| Homeworld | Ishuze Qi | |
| Doctrine | Urban Warfare, Defensive Operations | |
| Signature Equipment | Power Shield, Storm Pike | |
| Colors | Blue and White | |
The Ishuzan Stormborn were a formation of the Imperial Army raised during the Great Crusade.
Background
Defensive specialists, the Stormborn regiments are renown for their stubborn refusal to give ground. Born on a planet where survival relied on unity, where being alone was tantamount to suicide, an Ishuzan will not willingly abandon their comrades. Their solidarity is such that in combat, they are like living walls behind interlocking shields spewing waves of incandescent death to those that dare to lay siege. Whether they face hordes of xenos, massive war machines or a hostile planet, once they dig-in, the Stormborn will hold the line or die standing.
Homeworld
Doctrine
Wargear
With their planet being constantly covered in intense lightning storms, the Ishuzans are masters at manipulating energy. Each Stormborn is expected to bring his own weaponry, their iconic power shields and storm pikes. These are typically mass-produced, but are individualized by each recruit during his time as a hunter. The planetary government provides the rest of the equipment, including the high-collared flak jackets and portable power plant used to power their armaments.
Tempest Shield
Perhaps the most iconic part of the Stormborn armory, the "Il-Fen" pattern power shield, or more commonly known as Tempest Shields are an important part of Ishuzan culture as well. Each hunter is given one on his first hunt, and is expected to stand at the critical point of the shield wall that will be required to ensure the surface and bring down their prey. Made from an alloy unique to their home world, these shields are very durable and can absorb tremendous amounts of energy. The Stormborn like to boast that their shields to be nigh-indestructible; while this is not true, at least most outlive their owners.
Storm Pike
Traditionally known as an "Shanban" or more simply as an Zap Stick among outsiders, it is perhaps the most prominently used weapon on Ishuze - one reason is practicality. It was first used as a tool by hunters and builders alike, but those who watch Stormborn burn through their foes can attest to their effectiveness in combat. While they are operate similarly to plasma weaponry, they do so on a much smaller scale. A storm pike is thus safer to use, but is only slightly more destructive than a bolter. However, if a sufficient charge is built the iridescent beam released can burn through power armor with ease.
Blackwalls
An elite formation within the Stormborn, equipped with more advanced power plants and hermetically sealed suits. Often deployed to environments that are so hostile it would make even their fellows think twice. Atypically for Ishuzans, Blackwall platoons are composed of individuals chosen on skill and experience. This means that such units are invariable filled by members from different groups, thus the lack of heraldry on their shields - this makes the 'promotion' uninviting to most. Members are often encouraged to take initiative - a trait sorely lacking in most Stormborn. Given the more advanced equipment they carry, their storm pikes are notable more dangerous than standard.