The Canis Helix is necessary, however, as without this essential part of Leman Russ' heritage the other gene helices and cannot be implanted at all. Unfortunately the genetic coding of the Canis Helix contains a number of acids that are not synthesized by the human body, and they have a dramatic effect on the physique of the potential Space Marine. The ravages of this unique gene first take effect during the aspirant's indoctrination. Ultimately, he is cast into the wilderness to make his own way back to the Fang. The gene works hideous changes on the warrior's mind and body; he reverts to a primal state where his bones split and buckle, thick hair sprouts from across his body and his only desire is to gorge on fresh meat and glut himself on hot blood.

His body mass grows by up to eighty percent, many of his bones fuse and vestigial fangs sprout from his gums as he undergoes the transformation. Whilst his body is wracked with pain, the warrior must overcome the gene lest it overcomes him. It is common knowledge that the nights of Fenris are prowled by giant, feral creatures, known only as Wulfven, who failed to overcome the curse. To become one of the Wulfen is to fail and truely become a monster.

If the aspirant manages to find his way back to teh Fang across chasms and glaciers populated by snarling predators and blasted by freezing winds, he is implanted with the remainder of the Space Wolves' gene-seed, stabilizing the Canis Helix and completing his genetic indoctrination into the ranks of the Sons of Russ. A minority of these warriors do not completely conquer the gene-seeds original effects, however, and in times of great stress, they revert to the hulking, bloodthirsty state that haunts their genetic structure like a ghastly shadow. This is the Curse of the Wulfen, and its rightly feared.

End of Home World, Continues to the Beliefs of the Chapter.