Martek Helm’ayr, a former Necromundan street tough from Hive Primus, ended the long-standing internal strife on the Hive World through a decisive war of conquest. Pledging allegiance to the Imperial Fists, Helm’ayr promised to unify Necromunda under the Pax Imperium, a vow that impressed Space Marine Captain Gaelos. Between 012 and 085.M34, Helm’ayr brought the major hives under his control, ultimately achieving peace without further Imperial intervention. As a reward, he was appointed Planetary Governor and established the ruling House Helm’ayr, which later evolved into House Helmawr, with Martek recognized as their progenitor.
Martek Helm’ayr’s legacy is shrouded in mystery, with many records of his reign lost and his true appearance unknown. Grandiose statues and paintings in Hive Primus depict an exaggerated image of him, while a rumored fresco in the Imperial Fists’ fortress shows him taking the Oath of Governance. His influence persists, as evidenced by current Planetary Governor Gerontius Helmawr, who banished his son due to a resemblance to Martek, fearing the ancient usurper’s bloodline might still pose a threat.