Vigil of the Custodes
The silent oath of the Companions of the Throne
- Spoken by
- Adeptus Custodes
Context
Where Space Marines were forged in legions, each Custodian is wrought one at a time by the Emperor's own hand. They are not soldiers — they are companions. The Vigil is the oath each one takes when he first assumes a post within the Imperial Palace, and it is the oath he renews every dawn for as long as he draws breath.
It is spoken only in the Custodian's mind, in private communion with his Emperor. Outsiders have transcribed it from temple inscriptions and the murmurs of the dying. The true words may differ.
The Litany
I stand where you cannot.
I see what you must not.
I keep what only I may keep.
Should the gate fall, let me fall first.
Should the sky burn, let it pass through me.
Should you wake, find me where you left me.
Sleep on, my Emperor.
I am here.
Have you sworn an oath fit for the Adeptus Custodes?
Speak your vow at the shrine