Book Review // Horus Heresy: Virtues of the sons
Considering how short yesterday’s listen was, I couldn’t help but jump straight into the next story.
Virtues of the Sons (The Horus Heresy – Short Story)
Author: Andy Smillie
Official Fluff:
Amit duels Khârn and Azkaellon faces Lucius, as Sanguinius’s chosen sons explore the twin aspects of their nature.
This story offers insight into the Blood Angels’ duality — their outward nobility and the savage fury that burns beneath it. Along the way, we’re treated to two brutal, action-packed duels between some of the Heresy’s most iconic warriors.
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The Review
I’ll be honest: I don’t know the Blood Angels particularly well. Outside of the Lamenters in the Badab War and the Terminators from Space Hulk, they’ve never been a Legion I’ve spent much time with. So this felt like a good opportunity to change that.
The story centres on one of their traditions, the Tempest of Angels. We follow Amit, better known as “The Flesh Tearer” and Azkaellon of the Sanguinary Guard as they demonstrate the opposing virtues of attack and defence before Sanguinius himself.
Sanguinius, it must be said, seems mildly bored by the proceedings and already has a good idea how things will play out. His sons, however, still have a chance to surprise him. What makes this story work is how it functions as a Heresy-era training ground. Nassir Amit, usually a relentless offensive force, is forced to practice restraint against Khârn of the World Eaters. Azkaellon, by contrast, must abandon defence and take the initiative against the peerless swordsman Lucius of the Emperor’s Children.
Both duels are sharp, well-paced, and loaded with character, and they highlight exactly what makes the Blood Angels such an interesting Legion, grace and savagery in equal measure. There are also clear hints of future confrontations, and I’d be very surprised if we don’t see these warriors cross blades again, perhaps one day on Terra itself. An enjoyable, action-heavy short story, and well worth your time.
