One of the most notorious figures in the Horus Heresy, the much-loathed Word Bearer Erebus is the subject of Chris Wraight’s fascinating character study Child of Chaos. From the arid streets of a forgotten Colchisian village to the ruins of an ancient temple to the Ruinous Powers on Davin, Erebus calmly and succinctly tells his own story of single-minded determination and dedication, speaking directly and unashamedly to the reader of his childhood, his journey, his beliefs and the vital role he played in the Heresy.
Like him or loathe him, Erebus is a key character in the Heresy, and while a little mystery is usually a good thing he certainly deserves the chance to tell his side of the story. This is no earnest origin story tugging at the heartstrings, however – speaking in clear, straightforward, and occasionally humorous (mostly when discussing Kor Phaeron) first person, Erebus explicitly debunks the idea that this might be an attempt to rationalise his character and find some spark of decency among his actions. Instead, it’s the powerful honesty of an unrepentant psychopath, a man who’s comfortable in his own skin and perfectly content to dispassionately discuss his atrocities – committed initially in the name of a thirst for power, and subsequently a genuine faith. This might not change your opinion of Erebus, but in the context of the Heresy it’s a compelling story told in a unique fashion, and a must for any fan.
Child of Chaos was first released in the Black Library Events Anthology 2018/19 before being made available as a standalone eshort in May 2020.
Check out the main Horus Heresy reviews page on Track of Words.
