Labelled as ‘a Dark Imperium prequel story’, Guy Haley’s short story His Will features Frater Mathieu aboard the captured Macragge’s Honour, tying this character – and the Dark Imperium series as a whole – in nicely with the earlier Gathering Storm-era narrative around the return of Roboute Guilliman. With the Ultramarines’ flagship under the control of the Red Corsairs, Mathieu and his flock – including young, nervous Brother Clydeus – share their faith in secret, despite the dangers. When they risk the ire of the traitors to help a crewmember in need, Clydeus finds himself exposed to truths that challenge his faith like never before, but somehow bring hope as well.
Haley’s short stories often focus on regular, non-combatant characters engaged in everyday activities, and in context of the situation on the Macragge’s Honour that’s exactly what this portrays. The Red Corsairs’ occupation of the flagship is a non-stop test of faith for Mathieu and Clydeus, and while this is only a brief snapshot of what their lives are like it’s nevertheless as bleak and impactful as you’d expect. Through Clydeus’ eyes we see how unshakeable Mathieu is even at a young age, but because this is 40k the emphasis is very much on sacrifice, endurance and the tangible presence of monstrous, dangerous secrets. All told it’s a great example of a quiet, thoughtful story that adds depth to the setting – and in this case the Dark Imperium series – without needing any of the big names to be present.
See also: my reviews of Dark Imperium and Dark Imperium: Plague War
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