The Timekeeper's Anthem, also known as The Hymn of Solas Tempus, is a profound musical piece that encapsulates the mission and spirit of the Solas Tempus organization. Composed by the late Ensign Gregory Ilyan, the hymn serves as a tribute to the organization's commitment to preserving the timeline. Its lyrics eloquently express the organization's primary mission and secondary activities, embodying the bravery and readiness of Solas Tempus members to face any challenges that threaten the timeline.
The hymn holds significant historical context, being adopted as the organization's anthem following the tragic death of its composer in a defining incident for Solas Tempus. As such, it serves as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by Solas Tempus members in their quest to protect the timeline. In essence, "The Hymn of Solas Tempus" is more than just a song; it is a testament to the organization's dedication and an anthem that unites its members in their shared mission.
Singing vs Reading
The hymn, while traditionally sung, can also be recited. It is composed in the common metre, allowing for a variety of melodies to accompany it. The most frequently used tune is that of Scarborough Fair. There are also ceremonial occasions when the hymn, or portions of it, are spoken aloud. The chorus, in particular, is often recited as it symbolizes unity and dedication to our mission. This passage is frequently read at the funerals of Solas Tempus officers and crew, serving as a poignant reminder of their commitment to preserving the timeline.
Lyrics
(Verse 1)
Solas Tempus, strong and brave,
Guarding time's relentless wave,
Who dares to keep the past intact,
And future's course remains exact,
O hear us as we sing to thee,
For those who guard our history.
(Chorus)
With courage high and spirits free,
In the realm of time, we're ever ready,
Shout out our mission loud and strong,
For where e'er we go,
You will always know
That Solas Tempus keeps time steady.
(Verse 2)
O Tempus! Whose might the ages heard,
And hushed their chaos at thy word,
Who walks on the path of time,
And ensures history's rhythm and rhyme,
O hear us as we sing to thee,
For those who guard our history.
(Chorus)
(Verse 3)
Most Mighty Tempus! Who did brood,
Upon the chaos, vast and crude,
And bid its angry tumult cease,
And give, for wild confusion, peace,
O hear us as we sing to thee,
For those who guard our history.
(Chorus)
(Ending Verse)
Solas Tempus, grant, we pray,
To all your ranks, both night and day,
The courage, honor, strength, and skill,
Their mission to serve, your law fulfill;
Be thou the shield forevermore,
From every peril to the Corps.
(Chorus)
History
The Timekeeper's Anthem, has a poignant history that is deeply intertwined with the organization's defining moments. The hymn was originally penned by a young Ensign named Gregory Ilyan, who served as a Temporal Operative aboard the USS Rising Sun.
Ensign Ilyan composed the hymn in 2362, following his first mission into the past. The stirring lyrics and powerful melody quickly resonated with his fellow officers, and the song began to circulate among the young officers of Solas Tempus. Despite its growing popularity, the hymn found its way onto a command desk, where it was set aside and momentarily forgotten. Tragically, Ensign Ilyan was killed in action on March 23rd, 2048, while in orbit around Earth. He had been part of a mission to assist the USS Reed, a mission that would come to define the ethos and spirit of Solas Tempus. Ilyan's untimely death deeply affected his comrades and superiors, leading them to revisit his forgotten hymn.
In honor of Ensign Ilyan's sacrifice and in recognition of his lyrical tribute to their shared mission, Solas Tempus command officially adopted his song as the organization's hymn in 2368. Today, "The Hymn of Solas Tempus" serves as a poignant reminder of the organization's commitment to preserving the timeline, a commitment that brave officers like Ensign Gregory Ilyan gave their lives to uphold.