Horus Heresy: The Legion Astartes Gain New ‘Loyalist Consuls’ To Lead The Charge
The Loyalist Consuls bridge the gap between Astartes and Solar Auxilia. Inspire the troops with this new miniature for the Horus Heresy.
I actually think this is a pretty cool concept and one we don’t really see explored often — although it does happen. It’s the idea of an member of the Astartes directly leading either Solar Auxilia or the Imperial Militias into battle. While there is some command structure overlap, this Loyalist Consul is a direct bridge between the fighting arms of the Emperor’s forces.
Plus, you know things were desperate in during the Heresy when the Legion Astartes had to lead the Solar Auxilia in this manner. But I’m sure the battle-worn forces of the Legion Astartes appreciated the meat-shield “help” from the Solar Auxilia.
“On the Great Crusade, the Legiones Astartes fought alongside massive formations of Solar Auxilia and Imperial militias who – despite putting in a respectable showing for baseline humanity – never met the lofty standards of the Emperor’s enhanced elite. As the Horus Heresy ground on and casualties mounted, these unaugmented soldiers were even more frequently folded into Space Marine command structures, and it was the job of the Overseer Consuls to make sure they all functioned together.”
Loyalist Consul – Horus Heresy
As far as the miniature goes, I really like the extra-ornate armor this Legion Astartes member is wearing. I’m reminded of Chaplain vibes for sure. Only with (slightly) less skulls. I can see how this Consul would be the go-between with the Legion Astartes and the Solar Auxilia. I also appreciate the helmet/non-helmet options.
What else is cool about this preview is we also get a look at their special rule:
“In practical terms, these Consuls can take up to three Solar Auxilia lasrifle sections or Imperialis Militia infantry squads as a personal retinue, granting them the Legiones Auxilia rule that matches their Legion. These cut-price troops have many battlefield uses, and you don’t need to take an entire Allied Detachment to include a few indentured soldiers in your ranks.”
This really is a neat way to do a “combined arms” army. It’s also kind of wild that the Solar Auxila Rifles Sections included gain the Legion Astartes (X) Special Rule. This could really open the door to some very interesting custom armies. For the full rules for the Loyalist Consuls, you can find them in the Campaigns of the Age of Darkness – The Battle for Beta-Garmon.
Send in the reserves!
