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This article, Astra Romana, is currently under active construction. The author, CorvusObscurum, apologizes for the inconvenience. |
The Astra Romana or in Low Gothic, the 'Sentinels of Ultramar', is a Loyalist Successor Chapter created from the lineage of the venerable Ultramarines. They were created during the 23rd Founding, otherwise known as the 'Sentinel Founding', in order to strengthen the Imperium's defenses during the late 37th Millennium. Early in the Chapter's history, they found fragments of records that were written by the Ancient Terran Romanii on one of their voyages. In order to pay homage to this civilization that was unfortunately extinct, they decided to adopt their culture into their own Chapter.
Chapter History:
The chapter was created during the 23rd 'Sentinel' Founding in late M37, and as the Imperium faced a myriad of both internal and external threats, this resulted in the High Lords of Terra creating this chapter to help bolster the Imperial defenses and aid the beleaguered Imperial defenders.
Era Indomitus:
After serving the Imperium for countless millennia, they were visited by the returned Ultramarines Primarch Roubute Gulliman during his Indomitus Crusade.
As the Chapter was descended from the Ultramarines, they readily accepted the Primaris reinforcements that they received from the Unnumbered Sons in order to bolster their numbers and some of the High Ranking members of the Chapter including their Chapter Master underwent the procedure to become a Primaris Marine similar to the Ultramarines Chapter Master Marneus Calgar.
Notable Campaigns:
Victories:
Pacification of Herculaneum Prime (377.M37)
In their inaugural campaign, the chapter responded to a distress call from the Herculaneum Prime that fell to chaos to a Genestealer cult uprising. The chapter executed a precise orbital bombardment and was later followed up by a surgical ground assault that swiftly eradicated the cult's leadership and freed the planet from the cult's grasp.
Siege of Nova Cartago(380.M37)
Nova Cartago was a crucial waystation in an unnamed sub-sector that was besieged by a rampaging Ork WAAGH!. The Chapter alongside their numerous allies helped to form a united front and successfully defended the planet and earned the reputation of being stalwart defenders of the Imperium.
Liberating Vespasian IX(387.M37)
Vespasian IX, a thriving Agri world, faced a brutal Tyranid Invasion and with the help of their allies, launched a fierce counteroffensive.
After months of relentlessly battling, they reclaimed the planet and preserved the vital food supplies for the sector.
Cleansing of Pompeii Secundus(401.M37)
The chapter received reports of rampant demonic incursions on Pompeii Secundus that led the chapter to launch rapid strikes to cleanse the world. The disciplined tactics and unwavering resolve proved decisive in the banishment of the Warp Spawn horrors and saved the planet from Damnnation.
Defeats:
Scouring of Aelius IV(384.M37)
The chapter pursued a chaotic warband and engaged in a protracted campaign on the Cursed world of Aelius IV. And despite the chapters valor, they were ultimately forced to withdraw as the chaotic forces were overwhelming. This campaign served as a valuable lesson in the face of relentless heresy.
Chapter Homeworld:
As the chapter is fleet-based there isn't a homeworld that the Chapter has chosen for their own.
Although this will change in the Future
Fortress Monastery:
The Chapter's mobile fortress-monastery is a Battle Barge named the Imperium Invictus. The Battle-Barge is a unique hybridization of Ancient Roman architecture with the formidable defenses and armaments that are commonplace with Imperial designed and built battleships.
Chapter Organization:
Officer Ranks:
- Primus Astra- Chapter Master Equivalent
- Centurions- Captain equivalent.
- Magister Navis- Master of the Fleet Equivlaent
- Legate - Lieutenant equivalent.
Specialist Ranks:
- Primus Arcanum - Chief Librarian Equivlaent
- Arcanum - Librarian equivalent.
- Primus Sanctus - Master of Sanctity Equivlaent
- Sanctuc - Chaplain equivalent.
Line Ranks:
- Veteran Sergeant
- Primus Pilus - Veteran equivalent, they are assigned to the elite 1st Spear and serve as the right hand man of the Centurions.
- Sergeant
- Battle-Brother
- Legionarius - Scouts Marine equivalent.
- Recruit - Neophytes equivalent.
- Aspirant
Specialist Units and Formations:
- Praetorian Guard - Elite Veterans similar to the Ultramarines' Honor Guard, the Invictarius Suzerian. They are tasked with the protection of the Chapter Master and other key assets.
- Aquilifer Terminators - Terminator clad warriors that are equipped with storm shields and power fists who serve as formidable bulwark in the heat of battle.
Order of Battle:
Companies:
- 1st Company- 'Primarch's Chosen', made up of Veteran Marines.
- 2nd-6th Companies Battle-Companies. Reserved for frontline combat.
- 7th-9th Companies - Reserves.
- 10th Company - Known as the 'Luperci', they are the made up of the Chapter's Scouts and Initiates.
Chapters Beliefs and Culture:
The Chapter's beliefs include loyalty to the Emperor, Being known for their disciplined and well-drilled tactics, Martial Traditions and the Honoring of their Fallen Ancestors.
The chapter's culture involves the older veteran Astartes acting as tutors to the younger Battle-Brothers and aspirants.
And like the Salamanders, Battle-Brothers are known for caring about civilians and are even given leave to visit the families that raised them in order to keep their humanity.
Chapter Gene Seed:
Due to the Ultramarines being their Primogenitors, their gene-seed is one of the purest.
Combat Doctrine:
The Chapter's Combat Doctrine combines ancient Romanii battle tactics like that of the Testudo formation with a blend of modern Imperial tactics. This includes the Chapter being known for its tactical flexibility, using fortified bastions tactics and strategic siege warfare.
Deathwatch Service:
The chapter has regularly sent over Battle-Brothers to the Deathwatch, the Chamber Militant of the Ordo Xenos Inquisitorial Branch.
The skills and expertise the Veterans have learned with their centuries of service have proven useful against these foul aliens
Notable Deathwatch Members:
Alive
- Captain Gaius Valerius - Known for tactical brilliance and is a veteran of numerous campaigns and survived numerous campaigns against xenos threats
- Chaplain Lucius Aelius - Spiritual guide of the chapter. He was known for his fiery sermons inspire his battle-brothers to fight with unwavering faith and resolve
- Librarian Octavius Tiberius - Known for his highly psychic prowess and these powers prove instrumental in the prediction of enemy movements and guiding the chapter to victory
Deceased
- Tactical Marine Quintus Tullius - Known for being a valiant warrior who sacrificed himself against a Tyranid Hive Fleet while defending an Imperial World. His sacrifice saved numerous lives
- Sergeant Lucius Maximus - Known for being an expert in close combat and wielding a power gladius with unparalleled skill and courage. Lost in a fierce battle against a Tyranid Swarm.
- Veteran Decimus Marcellus - Was a heavily grizzled veteran of many battles and was known for his relentless determination in melee combat. Sacrificed himself to hold a critical choke point against a greenskin horde
Notable Members:
Alive:
- Primus Astra Lucius Valerius Maximus - Current Chapter Master of the Astra Romana and is one of the members who underwent the Rubicon Primaris to became a Primaris Space Marine
- Centurion Titus Aelius - Known for his tactical brilliance and unwavering resolve.
- Veteran Brother Lucius Severus - Is a revered legend within the chapter as he's a veteran and serves as a tactical advisor and instructor to the younger recruits of the chapter.
- Lieutenant Julius Cassius - As one of the Primaris Greyshields who were recruited into the Chapter, he’s known for being a rising star within the Chapter and leads his Primaris brethren into battle.
Deceased
- Brother Marcellus Tertius - He was known for being a valiant warrior who unfortunately died in a battle that defended a key imperial world. His sacrifice is remembered by his squadmates and the Chapter
- Inceptor Gaius Octavius - Gaius gave his life for the Imperium during a daring orbital insertion mission, earning eternal glory.
Chapter Fleet:
Active
Battle Barges
- Imperium Invictus (Battle-Barge; Flagship)- Flagship of the Chapter's Fleet while doubling as the Mobile fortress-monastery of the Chapter.
Strike Cruisers
- Praetorian's Wrath (Strike Cruiser) - One of the Chapter's primary strike cruisers and is used for rapid deployment of their forces and provides fire support during space engagements
- Augustus Glory (Strike Cruiser) - Named after the Ancient Terran Roman Emperor of the same name this ship is known for its precise strikes and its ability to coordinate fleet movements effectively.
Destroyers
- Centurion's Glory (Destroyer) - The Centurion's Glory is a swift and heavily armed destroyer that specializes in hit-and-run tactics and anti-piracy operations.
- Legionaries' Honor (Destroyer) - The Legionaries' Honour is the second destroyer in the chapter's fleet and is often used for scouting missions and recon behind enemy lines.
Destroyed
- Fortuna's Shield (Strike Cruiser) - Lost in a fierce battle against a chaotic warband during a campaign to defend an imperial world.
- Mars Ultor (Strike Cruiser) - The Mars Ultor met it's end while intercepting a hive fleet and sacrificed itself to protecting an important imperial world.
Chapter Relics:
Active
- Shield of Terra - An ancient storm shield that has adorned with engravings of the aquila and the symbols of the Ultramarines. Has been passed down through generations of the Chapter Masters. And protected the chapter's leaders in countless battles and a symbolizes of their unyielding defense of the Imperium
- Helm of Atreus - The Helm of Atreus is a revered relic helmet that once belonged to the chapter's founding heroes named Atreus. Is passed down to each Chapter Master while granting them insight and wisdom in times of crisis.
- Aquila Venator - A master-crafted relic bolt pistol that has been passed down throughout the Chapter's history. The Aquila Venator is known for its intricate golden design and deep crimson grip that makes it a symbol of honor and duty. Known for its unparalleled accuracy and is used by the Chapter Master.
Destroyed
- Blade of Aurelius Named after the Chapter's greatest hero Aurelius. Unfortunately this hero fell during the defense of an Imperial fortress against overwhelming odds. This sword was destroyed when its wielder was entombed beneath the rubble.
- Spear of Honorius - This master-crafted power spear was once wielded by one of the Chapter's most revered heroes. It was lost in a heroic last stand during a cataclysmic battle against a chaotic incursion.
- Crimson Cloak of Valor - This relic was worn by a legendary battle-brother who valiantly fought in the defense of a Imperial world but perished. The cloak was lost in the same battle.
Chapter Apperance:
Chapter Colors
The colors of the Chapter are dark red with gold accents.
Chapter Badge
The Chapter Badge is a golden Gladius that is piercing through an Omega Symbol. This pays homage to their . Culture and their Ultramarine Progenitors.
Relations
Allies
| Ultramarines |  |
Due to the Chapter being descended from the Ultramarines, the Chapter has been known for maintaining close and strong ties with their progenitors. This often includes collaborating together with the Ultramarines and sharing tactics, strategies and resources. |
| Imperial Guard |   |
There have been various Imperial Guard Regiments that formed alliances with the Astra Romana. These regiments knew that the Chapter could provide decisive firepower that could turn the tide of battle and leadership in critical decisions. While in return, the Chapter appreciates the regiment's numerical strength and versatility in warfare. |
| Adeptus Mechanicus |   |
The Adeptus Mechanicus and the Chapter have created an important and crucial alliance. The Adeptus Mechanicus provides the Chapter with their necessary equipment and makes sure that their warships are well-maintained and upgraded. While in return the chapter is known for assisting the Mechanicus in the recovery of lost STC fragments and other various technologies. |
| Sisters of Battle |   |
The Sisters of Battle and the Chapter have a shared bond and are known for fighting alongside them in the name of the Emperor. This mutual dedication to defending the Imperium from various heretical and Xenos threats has strengthened this alliance. These Battle-Sisters' unwavering faith and the Chaper's martial prowess have been known for complimenting each other on the battlefield. |
Enemies
| World Bearers: |   |
Due to their Ultramarine Progenitors being betrayed by the Word Bearers at the Betrayal of Calth during the Horus Heresy, this chapter has a particular contempt and disdain for this foul betrayal and has made the pursuit and elimination a sacred duty |
| Shadowed Cabal: | N/A | The Astra Romana and this group of clandestine and heretical group of chaotic cultists and sorcerors are enemies as the Shadowed Cabal has infiltrated Imperial political and military structures. The Astra Romana has made it their top priority to root out and eradicate this hidden threat. |
| House Vortigian | N/A | This once-loyal house became renegades and aligned themselves with their former Chaotic Enemies. The Astra Romana has faced numerous of these knights and has sustained heavy casualties from these chaotic war machines. The chapter has been known for adapting its combat doctrine to take down these knights. |
Notable Quotes:
By the Astra Romana
- "In the name of the Emperor and the Legacy of Ultramar, we stand united, resolute and unwavering"
- —Chapter Master Lucius Valerius Maximus
- "We're the sons of Terra who were forged in the fires of duty and valor. Our Deep Crimson Red represents the blood we shed for the Imperium, and our Gold accents symbolize the Emperor's divine authority"
- —Chief Librarian Seraphin Aurelius
- "When the darkness of the void threatens to consume us, remember, we're the Astra Romana, and we carry the flame of hope and the shield of unwavering resolve. Our enemies shall tremble before our might"
- —1st Company Captain Quintus Decimus Augustus
- "In the darkest of hours, the Astra Romana shall rise as a bulwark against the tides of chaos and Xenos. We will endure, we will conquer, and we will earn our place among the stars for the glory of the Imperium"
- —Chaplain Livius Valerius Octavius
About the Astra Romana
- "In the darkest hours of the Imperium, when the enemies of mankind threaten to engulf us in eternal night, the Astra Romana stands as a shining beacon of loyalty and valor, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Emperor's finest"
- — Lord Commander Aurelius Decimus
- "The Astra Romana, born of the Sentinel Founding, has proven itself as a celestial fortress against the encroaching darkness. Their deep crimson and gold banners flutter like a defiant flame on the battlefield, inspiring all who stand with them"
- — Inquisitor Octavia Valeria, Ordo Hereticus
- "The Astra Romana, born of the Sentinel Founding, epitomizes the tenacity and valor that has kept the Imperium alive for millennia. Their Gold Trim signifies their vigilance against the alien threat, and their courage is unquestionable"
- —Inquisitor Seraphina Valeria, Ordo Xenos
Gallery
