Fractured Loyalties: The Turbulent History of the Space Wolves and Dark Angels
In the vast expanse of the Imperium, even the most stalwart defenders of humanity can find themselves at odds with one another. The Space Wolves and Dark Angels Chapters, two of the most storied and respected Legions of Space Marines, have a long and tumultuous history marked by bitter rivalry and unyielding pride.
The Birth of a Feud
Two accounts exist of the origins of this legendary feud, both shrouded in mystery and speculation. The first tale tells of a pivotal moment during the Horus Heresy, when the Space Wolves and Dark Angels fought side by side in the Dulan Campaign. According to legend, Lion El’Jonson, Primarch of the Dark Angels, launched a bold assault without coordinating with his allies, leaving the Space Wolves vulnerable to counterattack. The ensuing battle was fierce, with both sides suffering heavy losses. In the aftermath, the Wolf and the Lion engaged in a ferocious duel, their mutual respect and admiration for one another tempered by unyielding pride and a deep-seated desire for vengeance.
A Pacification War Turned Sour
The second account speaks of a pacification war on a distant planet, where the Dark Angels and Space Wolves joined forces to quell a rebellious uprising. Leman Russ, the fiery Primarch of the Space Wolves, sought to claim the honor of defeating the planetary leader for himself. However, Lion El’Jonson preempted him, beheading the leader and sparking a fierce confrontation between the two Primarchs. The battle raged on for days, until finally, Leman Russ realized the futility of their squabble and began to laugh. Misinterpreting this as mockery, Lion El’Jonson struck down Russ and escaped with his Legion, leaving the Space Wolves to seethe with resentment.
A Legacy of Tension
Regardless of its true origins, the feud between the Space Wolves and Dark Angels has endured for millennia, fueled by unyielding pride and a deep-seated sense of honor. Though the two Legions have fought side by side on numerous occasions, their progenitors’ vows of vengeance have resulted in customary duels between their champions. These symbolic battles serve as a reminder of the enduring tension between the two Chapters, a testament to the unbreakable bonds of loyalty and honor that define the Space Marines.
The Great Crusade and Beyond
Under Leman Russ’s bold leadership, the Space Wolves played a pivotal role in the Great Crusade, fighting against a variety of cosmic horrors and earning their reputation as the Emperor’s enforcers. Their many campaigns, however, took a toll on their strength, depleting their numbers and straining their gene-seed. As the Horus Heresy loomed on the horizon, the Space Wolves stood ready to face the coming storm, their unwavering loyalty to the Emperor and their unshakeable resolve forged in the crucible of countless battles.
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