The Founding of Space Marine Chapters
In the grim darkness of the 41st millennium, the Imperium of Man relies on the genetically-engineered superhuman warriors known as Space Marines to protect humanity from the threats that lurk in the shadows. The creation of new Space Marine Chapters is a rare and significant event, known as a Founding.
A Brief History of Foundings
The first Founding occurred at the dawn of the Great Crusade, when the Emperor created the twenty Space Marine Legions. These Legions were later divided into smaller Chapters during the Second Founding, which took place seven years after the Horus Heresy. Since then, there have been several other Foundings, each creating new Chapters to replace those lost in battle or to counter emerging threats.
The Process of Creating New Chapters
The creation of new Space Marine Chapters is a complex and secretive process, involving the Adeptus Mechanicus and the High Lords of Terra. The gene-seed used to create new Chapters is stored by the Adeptus Mechanicus, who use human test-slaves to grow new progenoids. These progenoids are then implanted into more slaves, and so on, until a thousand sets of organs have been created.
Notable Foundings
There have been several notable Foundings throughout history, including the “Dark Founding”, the “Cursed Founding”, and the “Sentinel Founding”. Each of these Foundings has produced unique and storied Chapters, such as the Dark Paladins, the Executioners, and the Star Phantoms.
The Significance of Foundings
Foundings are crucial to the survival of humanity, as they allow the Imperium to adapt to changing circumstances and respond to emerging threats. They also provide an opportunity for new Chapters to forge their own histories and traditions, while remaining proud of their roots.
The Legacy of the Legiones Astartes
The twenty Space Marine Legions created by the Emperor during the First Founding remain a powerful symbol of the Imperium’s strength and resilience. Although many of these Legions were destroyed or divided during the Horus Heresy, their legacy lives on through the countless Chapters that have been founded since.
Conclusion
The Founding of Space Marine Chapters is a testament to the Imperium’s unwavering commitment to protecting humanity from the dangers that lurk in the galaxy. As the Imperium continues to evolve and adapt to changing circumstances, the creation of new Chapters will remain a vital part of its strategy for survival.
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