In his Primarchs short story Mercy of the Dragon Nick Kyme tackles the introduction of Vulkan to the Great Crusade in a tale of two interwoven strands. In one we see the Emperor explain Vulkan’s place amongst the primarchs to his son, attempting to convince the lord of drakes to leave Nocturne and take his place alongside his brothers. In the other we’re offered glimpses of Vulkan’s first engagement as part of the Crusade, observed by the Emperor and Ferrus Manus. Between them, both strands demonstrate Vulkan’s character and his value to the burgeoning Imperium, and his primarch brothers.
We’ve had stories before about Vulkan’s (and his legion’s) character and strengths, but in showing him at this moment Kyme provides a different and arguably more interesting than usual perspective. Vulkan hasn’t fully embraced his role, and Ferrus hasn’t quite figured out what to make of him yet, so watching as Vulkan questions the Emperor’s intentions and Ferrus gradually realises just what makes Vulkan different…it’s unusual, but interesting. It perhaps tries to do a little too much with not enough time, but Kyme’s semi-mythical take on the Salamanders works nicely in a story that boils down to the nature of the primarchs, and the Emperor’s vision for them.
Mercy of the Dragon is also available in the Sons of the Emperor anthology.
Check out the main Horus Heresy reviews page on Track of Words.
