Prelude to Heresy: The Warmaster (Warhammer 40k and Horus Heresy Lore)

Being a record of the early tenure of XVI Primarch Horus Lupercal as Warmaster of the Imperium, and discussions upon plans most foul being brought against him.
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Music: Officium Defunctorum by The Tudor Consort
This video is a non-profit fan-made lore discussion. Games Workshop, Forge World, Warhammer 40,000, Warhammer, Space Marine etc are all trademarks of Games Workshop Ltd. Games Workshop does not endorse or support fan-made "lore" videos. All views and opinions expressed in this video belong to Oculus Imperia and in no way reflect the views or opinions of Games Workshop Ltd or it's employees.
All works used in this video belong to their respective authors and corporations. Oculus Imperia holds no claim or propriety interest, either wholly or in part, in any of the work displayed here, with the exception of the audio commentary recorded for this video.

[@michaelkean5969]

Horus was Jealous of the Emperor and Sanguinus because he did not inherit his father and brothers glorious locks of hair.

[@kirkcannon4704]

Michael Kean Not even the gifts of the ruinous powers could match such glorious strands of perfect hair

[@raycearcher5794]

Yeah I mean Magnus the Red only got one eye and even HE has a splendid head of hair

[@baker90338]

Michael Kean you forgot fulgrim

[@sumotacular3681]

@Died OfCancer The Butcher's Nails: Not even once.

[@darkhighwayman1757]

Bald is beautiful

[@raycearcher5794]

It sort of sounds like you feel SORRY for Horus. An inquisitor will be arriving shortly.

[@MrTroves]

What Horus did is unforgivable and he was rightly damned for his treason... but one cannot help but feel the sense of what was lost and the tragedy that was to follow when what should have been the greatest champion of mankind was undermined and betrayed by his brother Logar into a path of slavery and damnation to dark powers. May the cursed leader of the Word Bearers and those who follow him one day pay in full for all the crimes against humanity, the universe and all of creation they have committed.

[@honestgoblinproductions5663]

To pity thy enemy is to know thy enemy.

[@Seve82]

@@honestgoblinproductions5663 Another? To pity the enemy is the first step to heresy! :BLAM

[@xxxxxx5868]

It is not pity that we feel but rather grief, grief that the greatest champion of His glorious light was manipualted, changed, and decayed by the Great Scourge.

[@ryunura]

@@MrTroves Yet we cannot fully condemn Lorgar. It was Erebus who whispered into his ear and twisted him, therefore leading to not only Horus’ fall but those within his legion.

[@absolute-focus]

Another brilliant video. My only gripe is Leman Russ never raged at Horus' elevation to Warmaster. He says in Prospero Burns that he was happy to let Horus have the role because Russ had his role as Emperor's Executioner.

[@BluJean6692]

Such a brilliant niche you've found: in-universe lore with the straight-faced passion of a Ken Burns documentary...

[@markrtoffeeman]

Was Horus a traitor by nature or was he a traitor through his wounding by an Anathame ? Only The Emperor knows.

[@Sylinnilys]

Both. Potential and flaws were there, blade unlocked them.

[@NemFX]

Should have made Alpharius the warmaster. "So yeah, he's just as good as Horus, but with none of the charisma." "That's not exactly high praise, has he said anything yet?" "Just the word checkmate, then seventeen planets exploded"

[@dill8363]

exactly. and most people forget that the alpharius killed by dorn was omegon who switched spots w alpharius, so any criticism of his character can be deflected easy🤷‍♀️

[@NemFX]

@@dill8363 it was Alpharius's body, with his captain's mind piloting it. Alpharius's mind is in his captain's bodym

[@orygungeeksolitude1380]

I see that you're Alpharius. I'm pretty Alpharius myself...

[@jaypea30]

Im something of an Alpharius myself

[@orygungeeksolitude1380]

@@jaypea30 well cheers my fellow Alpharius (laughs in confusingly loyal heresy)

[@vsGoliath96]

Guilliman: "He's Alpharius. He's Apharius! You're Alpharius!! I'M ALPHARIUS! ARE THERE ANY OTHER ALPHARIUS'S I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT?!" Omegon: "... Hydra Dominatus." Guilliman: "Okay, I'm done."

[@nathanielartosilla9110]

Will the real Alpharius please stand up? *Alpha Legion does the wave

[@Ra.vanZon]

Im a massive lore fan, and even though your videos dont tell me any real new information, i watch the shit out of them, the way that you bring the lore makes me so immersed in the 40k setting. I just want you to know that you are a absolute inspiration to me, thank you for your work AVE IMPERATOR

[@FutureBoyWonder]

That absolutely tell you a great deal of information. Oculus doesn't present in the style of luetin as you know he extolls information as a story teller. Also his style of language makes it so certain things might be missed if not closely listened to because the way he utilizes words is more poetic versus clear and utilitarian

[@pol1229]

When you think about it, the Horus Heresy only took place because the teacher left the classroom.

[@theeternalchronicler3072]

I have listened to this story several timis by a dozen people by now, and even on the rare occasion tell it but no matter how many times I hear or tell of this great saga it never gets old.

[@Amatsaru29]

The Emperor did tell Magnus, since Magnus discovered the webway network on his own. From "A thousand sons", when Magnus told the Emperor about the webway, the Emperor revealed that he already knew and left for Terra to "become its master".

[@landbeforetimeee]

Opening has Rogal Dorn looking like he just walked out of a final fantasy game.

[@razgriz821]

I wish you could have expanded on dorn and horus.. that dorn visited horus not only to reassure him but also endorsed loken as part of the mournival..

[@CryingZombie666]

He did? I don't remember that.

[@davyfromthenavy4248]

He did. It's all in the 1st Horus Heresy book. Dorn & a small contingent of Imperial Fists briefly stayed aboard the Vengeful Spirit while Horus & Dorn were in council together. Horus was seeking the advice & approval of his brother

[@CryingZombie666]

@Davyfromthenavy Oh, that's nice. The only things I remember about Dorn interacting with the Marines from the other Legions were him talking to Garro and the Outcast Dead.

[@kaiusbellum107]

Makes me proud to be a Pateron every video that goes up, Gloria in Excelsis Terra

[@MandaloretheSavage]

I missed these videos so much, i love the way the narrator's voice sounds and the style he uses.

[@The0Stroy]

"Angron raged over the decision" - like he was able to show any other emotion...

[@7F0X7]

This seems to always happen when a higher authority figure sets one among equals to a higher status. It's the insidious poison of envy at its core. I've seen this play out against myself and others throughout my life, and it's disgusting to say the least. I know we all turn our hindsight 20/20 vision on and collectively exclaim; 'What was the Emperor thinking!?', and it can be rather trite, but it wouldn't be such a common reaction without a kernel of truth to it. For indeed, for one to rank above must always mean that another ranks below, and no one wants to be 'below'...

[@foulmoodcentral2830]

He too, was too proud and believed in the capabilities of his son, utterly. but Horus broke slowly from doubt and lies. and then hubris.

[@wikidi5970]

Just want I needed in the hospital, an oculus talking about horus and the heresy.

[@OculusImperia]

GET WELL SOON CITIZEN

[@NegiTaiMetal011]

Impressive as usual. I hope you can use your talents and knowledge to do the Grey Knights and Deathwatch next or soon. Your narrative is quality.

[@thewayfarer8849]

Just when I was wondering when the next video would be. I can't wait for your coverage of the Malevolence factions (DM, DA, BA, WS), but when the lore is there we can see you cover the nooks and crannies you don't see in other lore channels. As per, great work man (y)

[@OculusImperia]

The Blood Angels and the White Scars will be happening as soon as I get my hands on Malevolence, although the Dark Mechanicus and Dark Angels won't be in the book so will have to wait till the next black book :(

[@kirkcannon4704]

The Wayfarer Same here

[@thewayfarer8849]

@@OculusImperia Excellent, thanks very much for letting me know. Ahh I forgot, they won't due to it not being Angelus anymore :( Still, two great legions is good news!

[@TK199999]

FYI, the position of Warmaster was not new. During many campaigns the Imperial leader in overall command was called Warmaster. What made Horus unique was that he was made Warmaster of the entire Great Crusade.

[@TobeWilsonNetwork]

So this is like a Field Marshal appointment, something like that

[@kairos4486]

I love the music you use for these videos! It feels very 40k, and really helps bring the story to life. Keep up the good work!

[@allisondennis2662]

A true story teller..reading of all Black library nearly finished xx

[@HighlanderFrag4Life]

this is better than netflix

[@Duppyman695]

Better than Netflix ! Better than Amazon ! And defo better than Disney chanel !

[@gasmonkey1000]

XVII Legion Word Bearers Legion structure when?

[@mateuszmarkucik8013]

I had to wait 12h from when I've saw the notification about this record until I could see it. Totaly worth the waiting. And the best way to chill after a hard day. All hail Occulus! And The Emperor of course.

[@feralprocessor9853]

Right off the bat, a once cherised friend.

[@widdershins5383]

Gawddamn you do spectacular stuff. Always a good day when you put up a new video of imperial history

[@cop154]

Great video. Once again your way of telling the story is unique and enjoyable. I wonder how you would tell the tale of the 20th legion the Alpha Legion with your tone and music and style. Great job mate.

[@johanlindgren5801]

Wow . I give you credit for being a fantastic storyteller and orator. FAntastic video and choice of music, you and I have similar tastes I see :D

[@leopoldjenkins]

Excellent piece of lore - as always

[@philips.5563]

Have a care when speaking of the High Lords. I believe your works to be of value to the Imperium and as such I would take no joy in your name being assigned to me.

[@eisenhorn5494]

R.I.P. Little Horus

[@overlord2495]

5 years later, the great crusade has ended , the age of darkness has begun

[@HaterMcFattyPants]

Thank you man, love your video's.

[@steventcunliffe]

Great lore video!

[@TheRealKevbot]

I love it man, it’s beautiful

[@inquisitorgramaticus2250]

The gestault entity that is. Imperial life ,history and Lore is in my opinion comparable with the very deep long form historical record in detail and grandeur as Tolkien middle earth . The history of our most glorious empire is staggeringly unique and from a shared experience and generation this just brightens my appreciation for Tolkien who did it on his own. I'm glad I found your chronicles because it's reminded me that there is always more to learn. AVE IMPERATOR that Emperor protects . O.M

[@Inignot12]

The Storyteller delivers another gem

[@thundertube69]

This was an exquisite look into the arch traitor well done. Will the God Emperors holy Inquisition ever get a video?

[@GreatGreenGoo]

YESS! More Oculus Imperia lore!

[@barrylucas505]

Please consider putting these wonderful accounts in printed form. Be sure to include illustrations, I would submit some for consideration just for the honor

[@davyfromthenavy4248]

It is, I think, inaccurate to suggest Horus could not court affection from Dorn. Dorn was incredibly reserved, rarely showing his affection for anything or anyone, but he definitely loved Horus. There was a deep kinship between them, as they among the Primarchs were likely the 2 most passionate and ardent believers in the Great Crusade and the goals/dreams of their Father. As you say, Dorn praised Horus as the natural choice for Warmaster, seeing in him the best qualities of a leader, and knowing that Horus shared their Father's ideals, and that Horus had the ability to unite and inspire their siblings in ways none of the other Primarchs could, save perhaps Sanguinius. You can see Dorn's utter faith in Horus when Nathaniel Garro comes to tell him of the Isstvan Atrocity. He completely discounts the notion that Horus could ever turn from The Emperor, and almost kills Garro for suggesting it. I would say that Horus is 1 of several brothers Rogal respected, and 1 of the few he cared deeply for.

[@eragonfreedman9228]

nice vid

[@YCCCm7]

Seeing the merch popup on youtube. Love the shirts. Would love to own one because the production quality here is fantastic, and I'd love to support it in exchange for sweet merch... But like, I've made the mistake of buying light colored specialty T's the past, but I always find that almost all of my shirts are darks, so they get postponed like crazy for being washed... And I never end up wearing them. If you ever get around to making dark versions, I'd love to get my hands on some.

[@jamesburto1883]

I just cant get enough . That was brilliant

[@joshuataranto2777]

YESSSSS!!! PRIMEARCH TIME FROM OI!!!!!!!!!!!

[@emperordave1184]

OOOO SO JUICY! Mooooore!

[@davyfromthenavy4248]

Will there be videos on the rest of the legions? Ive loved all the 1s youve covered so far, but there are so many left undocumented here. I ask, not to rush you into doing anything, nor to go against what you're planning for the channel's future, I love what you're doing. Im just wondering.

[@OculusImperia]

All the Legions will be covered in time! Some are going to be thematically paired, others have to wait until Forge World can give them some love in the Horus Heresy books they make. Blood Angels and White Scars really soon though!

[@davyfromthenavy4248]

@@OculusImperia Ok, thank you for telling me, and thank you for everything youre doing. I cant wait to see what you do next, your videos are awesome.

[@prageon6035]

Yay

[@JeanLucCaptain]

OH DER SCRIBE THINE POETRY INSPIRES US ALL!

[@johnnyscifi]

Erebus even looks like a creep!!!

[@victortatevosyan4001]

I hope the parallel with God and Lucifer is not lost on my fellow listeners

[@feralprocessor9853]

Alot of things could've gone differently pre-herasy.

[@Legitpenguins99]

Angron was angry? Im shocked

[@derekburge5294]

#BlameLorgar

[@Duppyman695]

Blame Erebus !

[@axiumsa4273]

Only your vids get 10 likes with only 3 views. Facking legend content mate

[@ABCefgy]

Horus was balding that is why he snapped

[@patrickmcabee123]

The deeper.., the sadder.🥺

[@NemFX]

You know what would be an interesting change to warhammer history? Instead of leaving the role of warmaster to Horus, the Emperor had left it to Perturabo? The primarch who always got picked last and felt overlooked. Suddenly given the keys to running everything. I think it's a fun idea.

[@foulmoodcentral2830]

This is not meant as critique or demeaning, But Perturabo could never command the other primarchs as Horus did, he did not have the heart, charisma or skill that was required, as The Warmaster it would fall upon the chosen primarch to not be just the leader of their own legion and a warlord but to mediate and juggle the positions of a politician, a statesman, a negotiator, diplomat, head of all fleets in the great crusade and logistician and representative of Imperium, the human species and its master, to those splintered and lost colonies or cultures the Imperium sought to bring into their fold. Perturabo Decimated his Legion when he took command so they would be reminded that nothing mattered to the 4th legion then to meet his demands and expectations, or else. now imagine that sort of order being given with him as Warmaster..there would be an instant revolt led by more if not most of his brothers against him rather then compling. only Horus could see all these facets at once and know the best way forward because he had been at the side of the Emperor the longest. but in the end it was too much even for him. The idea is still interesting though.

[@NemFX]

@@foulmoodcentral2830 I just think it'd be funny. Perturabo or Kurze leading would win, it would just be a rough road to rebuild after.

[@BluJean6692]

Yasssssss

[@boang30]

Is your mind full of internecine conflict and chicken though?

[@matthewmcneany]

Sometimes I think that the ultimate cause of the Horus Heresy was the same as the American war for independence. Taxation without representation.

[@unintentionallydramatic]

Definitely applies to the Dark Mechanicum & the Titan Legions.

[@fashig06]

yeyeye

[@pawrestlingchamp]

Wouldn’t this be 30k lore not 40k? Not trying to be a prick, just trying to make sure my timeline is correct.

[@Duppyman695]

Yeah Pre Horus Heresy leading up to the siege of Terra !

[@chubbyninja89]

You're never going the Space Wolves are you?

[@OculusImperia]

I absolutely will! Just waiting until I inch closer to covering Prospero :)

[@axelNodvon2047]

Oculus Imperia Oooo, I’m guessing the Legio XV is coming next?

[@Duppyman695]

Vulka Fenrika, The Wolves of Fenris, The Emperor's executioners, The Space Wolves .............. coming soon!

[@chubbyninja89]

@@Duppyman695 That's good to hear.

[@jeremy7157]

everything ever is erebus's fault

[@johnnyscifi]

Horus was the emperor, and defacto, the imperial truths #1 fan...

[@axelNodvon2047]

Wasn’t Leman accepting of Horus’s ascension to Warmaster

[@foulmoodcentral2830]

He already had his role as executioner, It might have sat ill with him at first but Horus was the first to be found and knew the Emperor better then anyone else. it was predictable.

[@axelNodvon2047]

@@foulmoodcentral2830 I remember somewhere that the wolf priests said they have already forseen Horus's rise to Warmaster and that it was never in Russ's destiny to be warmaster.

[@jayman7752]

Yay - I came!

[@sanguiniusonvacation1803]

and he cheats at fist fights !

[@commissarlugh1040]

Fucking Erebus.

[@LordTelperion]

All hail the Imperial Senate!

[@LordTelperion]

I wonder why the various artists make the faces of the Primarchs and Space Marines so ugly... (my guess is they are better at drawing machines and buildings than people).

[@darthgorthaur258]

It should of been our lord the angel or the master of ultramar...no discussion.

[@Jeremy-rp3in]

Can't listen right now, once I saw Occulus I just downloaded ... didn't matter; it's occulus so I know it will be perfect narration

[@kyle857]

Elevating one of the primarchs above all the others was pretty stupid. Almost like Big E does not understand people.

[@razgriz821]

The primarchs should have been over the council..

[@darkhighwayman1757]

Would you really want Angron in charge of anything?

[@feralprocessor9853]

The prelude to galactic daddy issues.

[@utubeisCensorred]

@6:22 that's the worst art of a primach I've ever witnessed. lol

[@saladinbob]

Across multiple sources it is stated that with the exception of Horus' Lunar Wolves, no Legion brought as many worlds into compliance as the Ultramarines. Similarly, I can find no sources outside of Dark Angels fans that states the First Legion held a record comparable to the above two Legions when it came to successful compliances so please stop suggesting that it is otherwise.

[@zenoblues7787]

I believe their claim to fame is they conquered more planets than anyone else within the time frame of their Primarch's return to the Triumph at Ullinor. With it being a common held idea that if they had found Lion El Johnson earlier on in the Great Crusade they would have out paced the other Legions.

[@steventcunliffe]

Great lore video!