What is a dark angel?

Dark Angels

The Dark Angels are a prominent First Founding Chapter of the Adeptus Astartes (Space Marines) in the Warhammer 40,000 setting. Known for their medieval aesthetic and complex history, they harbor a dark secret that drives their actions.

Key Characteristics:

• Loyalty: Publicly renowned for their unwavering loyalty to the Emperor, the Dark Angels are deeply secretive and operate with a level of autonomy that borders on suspicion. Their true loyalty lies with hunting down the Fallen.
• The Fallen: During the Horus Heresy, a significant portion of the Dark Angels, led by Luther, turned traitor. These rebels were scattered across space and time. The Dark Angels Chapter's primary mission is to find and either redeem or execute these Fallen Space Marines.
• Secrecy: The hunt for the Fallen is kept hidden from the Imperium at large. Only the highest-ranking members of the Chapter, the Inner Circle, are privy to the full truth. This secrecy often leads to suspicion and mistrust from other Imperial organizations.
• Succession: The Dark Angels have a complex Chapter organization, incorporating several Successor Chapters known as the Unforgiven. These Successor Chapters also share the same mission of hunting down the Fallen, often operating independently but answering to the Dark Angels when the hunt demands it.
• Battle Doctrine: They are a versatile Chapter, capable of excelling in various combat roles. They are well-known for their use of Terminator armour and heavily armored vehicles.
• Notable Figures: Figures like Lion El'Jonson (their Primarch) and Azrael (the current Supreme Grand Master) are key to their history and direction.