The Conceivable Impact of Leman Russ Staying on Terra: A Scenario for the Siege of Terra

The Siege of Terra, one of the most significant events during the Horus Heresy, would have played out differently if Leman Russ, the tumultuous Space Wolf primarch, had stayed on Terra. This essay explores the possible outcomes and the role Leman Russ might have played in defending the titular planet against the incurring forces of the traitor astartes and the warp daemons.

Why Leman Russ's Staying on Terra Would Have Made a Difference

Had Leman Russ not left Terra to face Horus on the Vengeful Spirit, he would have been a tremendous asset in the siege. His leadership and combat prowess would have significantly strengthened the defense of the planet. The Space Wolves, known for their fierce and relentless battlefield tactics, would have been formidable opponents against the traitor astartes and other enemies.

Potential Encounters and Battles

Russ's absence on the Vengeful Spirit might have altered not only the immediate defense of Terra but also the broader narrative of the Horus Heresy. Here are some hypothetical scenarios:

Chasing Down Magnus

One of the most intriguing possibilities is a rematch between Russ and Magnus, the intelligent and charismatic Chaos Space Marine. Magnus's abilities as a Sorcerer and his knowledge of spell-casting could have made for an epic and challenging battle, possibly shifting the balance of power during the siege.

Confronting Fulgrim

Another interesting scenario could have been Leman Russ facing Fulgrim, the Primarch of the Solar System and an expert in bioengineering and the psychic arts. This battle of might and intellect could have had profound implications for the outcome of the Siege of Terra.

Opposing Mortarion

If Russ stayed on Terra, he might have directly confronted Mortarion, the battle-hardened and ruthless Primarch of the Death Guard. This encounter would have brought together two of the most battle-savvy primarchs, potentially resulting in a ferocious and impactful battle that could have shifted the tide of the siege.

The Vengeful Spirit - A Shared Voyage

Furthermore, if the remainder of the Space Wolves were on the Vengeful Spirit rather than heading to avenge Russ, they might also have encountered and confronted Abaddon. Abaddon, the Master of Mankind, is a formidable foe with a long-standing rivalry with the Space Marines. A direct confrontation between the Space Wolves, led by Russ, and Abaddon would have been an epic event, possibly leading to a major battle or even the death of a significant threat.

The Wound from Russ and Its Uncertain Aftermath

This speculative scenario raises the question of the impact of the wound Russ inflicted on Horus. Although Horus was eventually healed, the final battle has not yet happened. The long-term effects of the wound and the healing process are unknown, making it impossible to definitively determine Russ's influence on the ultimate outcome.

The Siege of Terra, therefore, would not have been the same without Leman Russ's presence, potentially resulting in a different trajectory for the conflict and the shape of the final battle.