The Divided Legions: Causes of Loyal and Traitor Primarchs During the Horus Heresy

The Horus Heresy is a pivotal moment for the Space Marines and the Imperium of Man. Some Legions chose to remain loyal to the Emperor, while others embraced chaos. In this article, we explore the reasons behind the different fates of the Primarchs and their Legions.

Introduction

Loyalty, as emphasized by Lion El Jonson, is its own reward. However, the fate of the Primarchs during the Horus Heresy reveals that not all Space Marine Legions remained true to the Emperor. This article delves into the origins of the division, focusing on individual Primarchs and their respective reasons for their fates.

Primarchs and Their Choices

1. Lion El Jonson

As the Emperor's Exterminator, Lion El Jonson completely dismisses the Dark Angels turning traitor. He also deflects Fateweaver's attempts to sway him, as he is rooted in his loyalty to the Emperor and the Imperium.

2. Fulgrim

Fulgrim believed in the perfecting of the human condition. His ego was severely damaged due to a gene pathogen, and later, a Slaanesh daemon possessor blade turned him to the Chaos Gods, promising him perfection through service to evil.

3. Perturabo

Perturabo's refusal to turn traitor stems from his internalization of perceived slights and his pride. His deep pride led him to decimate his own homeworld and Legion, realizing his downfall was due to his arrogance and inability to let go.

4. Jaghatai Khan

Jaghatai Khan's rational approach to the Heresy reveals his disdain for the Emperor as a tyrant. Despite knowing the Imperial Truth as a protective lie, he saw Horus's rebellion as an opportunity to make a new future, rather than a betrayal.

5. Leman Russ

Leman Russ's deep love and devotion to the Emperor is unmatched. His loyalty is a result of both his experiences and his belief in his father's teachings. Russ embodied the ideals of a loyal Space Marine.

6. Rogal Dorn

Rogal Dorn is a paragon of duty and loyalty. Dorn believes unequivocally in the Imperial dream and the Emperor's role in it. The forces of Chaos saw no attempt to corrupt him, recognizing his unwavering faith.

7. Konrad Curze

Konrad Curze's descent into chaos is attributed to his insurmountable visions. Driven mad and in constant fear of the Emperor's assassin, Curze believed his path was just and that joining Horus would vindicate his beliefs.

8. Sanguinius

Sanguinius's loyalty is steadfast, despite his struggles with his Legion's curse. His vision of the Emperor's sacrifice and continued devotion to his cause kept him loyal, even in the face of overwhelming darkness.

9. Ferrus Manus

Ferrus Manus's unwavering allegiance to the Emperor is his downfall. His refusal to break oaths and his belief in the Emperor's path, even when challenged by his brother Fulgrim, shows his dedication to loyalty and duty.

10. Angron

Angron's connection to the Emperor was severed, leading to a series of traumatic events. The Emperor's perceived abandonment and the subsequent betrayal by Horus deeply affected Angron, channeling his hatred into service for the Chaos Gods.

11. Roboute Guilliman

Guilliman's love for the Imperium and the Emperor is profound. His vision of a grand future and dedication to the Imperium's cause kept him loyal, even during the Heresy.

12. Mortarion

Mortarion's hatred of the Emperor is rooted in his past experiences and his challenges by the Emperor himself. The final straw came when Horus challenged him to accept the path of Chaos, which he eagerly did.

13. Magnus the Red

Magnus's arrogance led him to make critical errors. His acceptance of a bargain with Tzeentch to save his sons and subsequent use of warp powers, despite council restrictions, ultimately led to his downfall and betrayal.

14. Horus Lupercal

Horus's trust in the Emperor eroded over time, fueled by manipulation and a vision of betrayal. The manipulation by Erebus and the revelation that the Emperor planned to be a god convinced Horus to turn to the Chaos Gods.

15. Lorgar Aurelian

Tragically, Lorgar's abuse and subsequent punishment by the Emperor led to his embrace of Chaos. His pilgrimage to discover the reality of the Gods and the creation of the Word Bearers Legion's damages caused by this turned his Legion to Chaos.

16. Vulkan

Vulkan's deep humanity and compassion for the common man kept him loyal. His devotion to the Emperor and the Imperium’s cause led him to resist rebellion and the chaos gods.

17. Corvus Corax

Corvus Corax's hatred of tyranny and love for the Emperor stood in stark contrast to Horus's actions. Though not a perfect ruler, the Emperor’s leadership was the most just Corvus ever found, and Horus's betrayal enraged him.

18. Alpharius and Omegon

The Alpha Legion's actions during the Heresy remain mysterious. While most joined the Traitors, there is a suspicion of double agents or that one or both brothers remained loyal. The indecision and potential betrayal make their fate and loyalty a topic of intrigue.

Conclusion

The Horus Heresy is a complex narrative filled with moments of betrayal and loyalty. The reasons behind the choices of the Primarchs and their Legions are diverse and rooted in their individual experiences, beliefs, and the manipulation by Chaos.

The Horus Heresy remains a pivotal moment in the history of the Space Marines and the Imperium, serving as a stark reminder of the thin line between loyalty and corruption.