Oath of the Moment
The vow spoken before every battle by an Astartes
- Spoken by
- Adeptus Astartes (all Chapters)
Context
Before every battle, an Astartes Chapter convenes in its reclusiam — or on the deck of a strike cruiser, or in the dust beside a drop-pod. A Chaplain raises a banner. Each warrior in turn names the single deed they swear to perform in the coming battle: a tower they will take, an enemy they will slay, a brother they will avenge. The deed is sworn aloud, brother-to-brother, so that all witness it.
The Oath of the Moment is not a prayer to the Emperor — it is a contract with the Chapter. To fail is to fail one's name. To die fulfilling it is to die in honour. To survive having broken it is the worst fate of all.
The Litany
I, beneath the Emperor's gaze, swear this deed.
Before my brothers' witness, I name it now.
Until it is done, I will not falter.
Until it is done, I will not fall.
Should I die in its keeping, my soul is His.
Should I live and forsake it, let me die nameless.
This is the Oath of the Moment.
This is the iron of my honour.
Have you sworn your own oath to the Emperor?
Speak your vow at the shrine