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  • Subject: Halo Fanfic: The End of a War
Subject: Halo Fanfic: The End of a War
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hey havent posted in a while so ill say this again Mr.Clarks a geinus

  • 03.07.2005 5:44 PM PDT
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A few simple musings on my part while I pretend to be doing work

I'm not sure how many of you guys have watched the Collectors Edition DVD, but I had a few questions I thought I'd ask you guys.

If you remember in one of the scenes that was eventually cut from the game, where the Prophet of Truth and Mercy spoke with the Arbiter about the creation of the Covenant and showed the 6 tablets depicting the separate stages in the Covenant's history.

We all know that the Prophets and the Elites fought each other at first, before the discovery of Forerunner technology upon their planet. The Prophets invaded the Elite homeworld, but I gotta ask, just how did they invade?

Did the Prophets already have Forerunner ships under their command? Or did they have their own ships that they themselves created?

Just a few things I'd kind of like to hear your opinions on.

  • 03.07.2005 7:21 PM PDT
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Posted by: Mr_Clark
A few simple musings on my part while I pretend to be doing work

I'm not sure how many of you guys have watched the Collectors Edition DVD, but I had a few questions I thought I'd ask you guys.

If you remember in one of the scenes that was eventually cut from the game, where the Prophet of Truth and Mercy spoke with the Arbiter about the creation of the Covenant and showed the 6 tablets depicting the separate stages in the Covenant's history.

We all know that the Prophets and the Elites fought each other at first, before the discovery of Forerunner technology upon their planet. The Prophets invaded the Elite homeworld, but I gotta ask, just how did they invade?

Did the Prophets already have Forerunner ships under their command? Or did they have their own ships that they themselves created?

Just a few things I'd kind of like to hear your opinions on.


I think the Prophets must have had at least some Forerunner ships, since I can't see them building their own. The Covenant have always seemed to be adaptive, instead of original.

Also here's a random interesting story

  • 03.07.2005 9:07 PM PDT
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Posted by: Konoka_chan
Posted by: Mr_Clark
A few simple musings on my part while I pretend to be doing work

I'm not sure how many of you guys have watched the Collectors Edition DVD, but I had a few questions I thought I'd ask you guys.

If you remember in one of the scenes that was eventually cut from the game, where the Prophet of Truth and Mercy spoke with the Arbiter about the creation of the Covenant and showed the 6 tablets depicting the separate stages in the Covenant's history.

We all know that the Prophets and the Elites fought each other at first, before the discovery of Forerunner technology upon their planet. The Prophets invaded the Elite homeworld, but I gotta ask, just how did they invade?

Did the Prophets already have Forerunner ships under their command? Or did they have their own ships that they themselves created?

Just a few things I'd kind of like to hear your opinions on.


I think the Prophets must have had at least some Forerunner ships, since I can't see them building their own. The Covenant have always seemed to be adaptive, instead of original.

Also here's a random interesting story


I agree. The Prophets must have somehow already possessed Forerunner ships before their war with the Elites and eventual integration and creation of the Covenant.

I remember in 'The Flood' that it was stated the Prophets evolved on a Forerunner planet, so its not too far-fetched to think that they would have some of their old ships.

Also, in regards to that article Konoka_chan, that is quite interesting. Bungie increasing its numbers for the third and perhaps final installment in the Halo series raises more credence to that other article awhile back about Halo 3 being released simulteneously with Sony's release of the Playstation 3.

  • 03.07.2005 9:59 PM PDT
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I´m not sure if I have posted in this thread, but I just have to be sure that I get a PM, this is by far one of the best stories I´ve ever read.

[Edited on 3/7/2005 11:39:18 PM]

  • 03.07.2005 11:38 PM PDT
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Posted by: Stand_Alone
Posted by: Konoka_chan
Posted by: Mr_Clark
A few simple musings on my part while I pretend to be doing work

I'm not sure how many of you guys have watched the Collectors Edition DVD, but I had a few questions I thought I'd ask you guys.

If you remember in one of the scenes that was eventually cut from the game, where the Prophet of Truth and Mercy spoke with the Arbiter about the creation of the Covenant and showed the 6 tablets depicting the separate stages in the Covenant's history.

We all know that the Prophets and the Elites fought each other at first, before the discovery of Forerunner technology upon their planet. The Prophets invaded the Elite homeworld, but I gotta ask, just how did they invade?

Did the Prophets already have Forerunner ships under their command? Or did they have their own ships that they themselves created?

Just a few things I'd kind of like to hear your opinions on.


I think the Prophets must have had at least some Forerunner ships, since I can't see them building their own. The Covenant have always seemed to be adaptive, instead of original.

Also here's a random interesting story


I agree. The Prophets must have somehow already possessed Forerunner ships before their war with the Elites and eventual integration and creation of the Covenant.

I remember in 'The Flood' that it was stated the Prophets evolved on a Forerunner planet, so its not too far-fetched to think that they would have some of their old ships.

Also, in regards to that article Konoka_chan, that is quite interesting. Bungie increasing its numbers for the third and perhaps final installment in the Halo series raises more credence to that other article awhile back about Halo 3 being released simulteneously with Sony's release of the Playstation 3.


But how did the prophets get to the Forerunner planet?
If they came there by ship then they would have been around for a long time...
If they evolved on the Forerunner planet, then that means the Forerunners existed for a very long time
But then where did the Forerunners go?
Did they dissappear by activating a Halo?
How confusing...

  • 03.08.2005 2:01 AM PDT
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Posted by: Scorptank
But how did the prophets get to the Forerunner planet?
If they came there by ship then they would have been around for a long time...
If they evolved on the Forerunner planet, then that means the Forerunners existed for a very long time
But then where did the Forerunners go?
Did they dissappear by activating a Halo?
How confusing...


All very good questions, and ones that will hopefully have answers sometime soon.

  • 03.08.2005 7:34 AM PDT
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Posted by: Mr_Clark
Posted by: Scorptank
But how did the prophets get to the Forerunner planet?
If they came there by ship then they would have been around for a long time...
If they evolved on the Forerunner planet, then that means the Forerunners existed for a very long time
But then where did the Forerunners go?
Did they dissappear by activating a Halo?
How confusing...


All very good questions, and ones that will hopefully have answers sometime soon.


Let's hope it gets answered in one of the new books.
Or in the new game.

  • 03.08.2005 9:07 AM PDT
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Posted by: Scorptank
Posted by: Mr_Clark
Posted by: Scorptank
But how did the prophets get to the Forerunner planet?
If they came there by ship then they would have been around for a long time...
If they evolved on the Forerunner planet, then that means the Forerunners existed for a very long time
But then where did the Forerunners go?
Did they dissappear by activating a Halo?
How confusing...


All very good questions, and ones that will hopefully have answers sometime soon.


Let's hope it gets answered in one of the new books.
Or in the new game.

The Forerunner died when they activated the halos, yes
and maybe the Forerunner ship had been buried, and had been dug up, who knows

and those are good questions

[Edited on 3/8/2005 9:54:18 AM]

  • 03.08.2005 9:53 AM PDT
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I beleive that a forerunner ship can survive the destruction of a Halo. With this in mind the forerunners died because they were not on there ship when halo went boom. The ship survived and crashlanded on a distant planet. The technology within caused the species to evolve and thus create the prophets. The prophets then set out to finish the prophets work. They knew they needed help so they took the ship and serched for a species string enough for there cause. When the landed on the elites homeworld they told the elites about a great journey. The elites then took the bait served them until now.

Hows that for speculation! let me know what you think

[Edited on 3/8/2005 12:07:10 PM]

  • 03.08.2005 12:05 PM PDT
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the halos destroyed all life that the flood could live on so everything else would still be there because if it destroyed everything then there would be no planets and the halo's would kill themselves

  • 03.08.2005 12:18 PM PDT
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Yeah, the halos do not destroy all life by blowing up, they do it some other way, that we will hopefully never know about. The Prophets probably were never around till several thousand years after the forerunners destruction, and in htat time they could have evolved into current day Prophets. The Prophets, having been on the forerunner world, found some ruins, and basically refurbished broken down forerunner technology. Its all very simple, though I could be wrong. Another question: How do the prophet's understand the Forerunners' language? It is doubtful that they would speak an ancient language naturally, since the Forerunner language would have died out long before the prophets came to their current state. And without some kind of translator, it would be impossible for the prophets to teach themselves the language.

  • 03.08.2005 5:29 PM PDT
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im pretty sure that prophets used to be more than space popes, and they may have actually had a millitary at one point.... might be an interesting topic for a forum.... hint hint....

  • 03.08.2005 5:35 PM PDT
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Chapter 12 has been finished early, and since I have some free time, well, what the hell I'll post it now.

The PM's are being sent as we speak....or read...whatever works for you.

  • 03.08.2005 7:46 PM PDT
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Can't you post it on FanFic before you send out the PMs? I'm dying to read it!

  • 03.08.2005 7:49 PM PDT
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[color=red] A/N: Wow, this was a hard chapter to write. Both because of the style, and all the new stuff. Surprisingly the length wasn’t really an issue, which should be good news for all you readers. I’ll be able to make all my chapters close to this length from now on I think.

I warned you guys, this chapter is going to be something different. So prepare yourselves before venturing downwards. Also remember this, the way to understand what’s going in this chapter is to have a basic understanding of the Covenant history, and to look at the title of this chapter. It is very very very very important. If you require the necessary knowledge of the Covenant’s past, I recommend googling ‘Halo Library’ and finding the first site the pops up. [/color]



The End of a War

Chapter 12

Second Age of Abandonment

The ancient city sprawled far beyond where the eyes could pierce, it’s buildings reaching both high and low upon the horizon. Crumbling stone contrasted against the strength each piece of architecture represented, along with the strewn corpses laid about in the streets. Blood stained the roads, creating a shimmer upon the ground of a purplish hue. The lone ridgeline that surveyed the city provided cover for the group of Sangheili, as they watched the muted streets for any sign of life.

Heat poured down from the cloudless sky, bearing down relentlessly upon the soldiers. It became evident that the bodies scattered about had been there for some time, as the stench produced from the heat was enough to make the seasoned warriors recoil.

Aki Forlumee stood on the tip of the ridge, casting a hardened gaze towards the carnage below. The Sangheili stood high, taller than the other soldiers around him. Sweat beaded down from his sloped head and neck. The armor he wore was light, and superficial, meant to impose his presence instead of protect against actual threats.

“There is no sign of the vermin, Commander,” a Sangheili announced from off to the side. Forlumee turned slightly to scrutinize the soldier.

“The bodies in the streets would tell a different story,” Forlumee commented as he stepped down from his perch. The eyes of his warriors followed him, a fact the Sangheili was conscious of. He kept his strides even, relaxed with a stiff look about the rest of his body. It was important he appear not overly concerned with the situation. Soldiers feed off their superiors, and when a commander begins to look harried the troops start to get worried.

Forlumee glanced wearily at the distant city one last time before turning back to the other Sangheili. Each warrior was tense, and the seasoned commander knew that they wished to rush upon the city and avenge the murder of their brethren that littered the streets. Haste and emotion would guarantee their deaths however, and Forlumee needed to strategize their assault upon the city.

“High Councilman Garsunee sent a transmission late the previous evening, informing Lord Mortumee that the invaders had landed on the outskirts of Akhenaten. Defense posts were established, and the innocent were taken into shelter. Early this morning two heathen ships bombarded the outer defenses of this city with their weaponry from low orbit. An urgent message from Councilman Garsunee was the last bit of information we received.”

The Sangheili commander pointed out towards the city.

“We have confirmed several things from this attack upon Akhenaten. Our enemy can coordinate with the ships they have used to infiltrate our home world. Also, they bear no mercy towards the innocent and the weak. If they do not show mercy to us, we shall do the same for them.”

Snarled responses greeted him, and Forlumee felt his mouth twist slightly into a smile.

Those creatures will soon learn the folly of their actions. The High Council will be mobilizing our forces and we will strike out at these heathens. The stain they’ve left upon our world will be washed away by their blood.

--------------------------------

The High Prophet of Law watched intently as the ship, Order and Faith began to slowly descend into the planet’s atmosphere. The ancient being appeared lax, with his hands clasped together behind his back and his body loose. Not a sound was emitted aboard the bridge as they watched, the seemingly infinitude of space bearing down upon all those that occupied it. Several of the other Prophets on the bridge of Forgotten Legacy traded looks with one another as Order and Faith disappeared from view.

A lone creature broke away from the group and approached the High Prophet of Law. He stopped several paces behind the ancient creature and cleared it’s throat, seemingly attempting to gain his attention.

“Excuse my impertinence your Holiness,” the minor Prophet said. “But is it wise to send our only other vessel to the surface of those agnostic beasts? Would it not be wiser to use our Lord’s ships to burn their existence away and descend without incident? While these barbarians have shown to be weak in mind and technology, they do possess strength, and their number is far greater than ours.”

Stretched silence lasted for a few moments before the High Prophet of Law turned slightly, letting his gaze fall upon the minor Prophet.

“Do you presume to tell me what to do?”

The question held no apprehension, or anger, yet the Prophet recoiled as if it had been struck.

“O…of course not, your Holiness, I merely meant to suggest that we not commit ourselves to one action so soon,” the simpering creature sputtered out. With a deep bow it quickly backed up until it had returned to it’s original position.

The High Prophet of Law turned back to gazing out of the bridge, but he continued speaking.

“We have searched for a boundless time, believing that our ancestors had left us clues to their great power. Our domicile world was destroyed because we did not believe in our lineage. Those that remained behind and did not join us on our great journey were purified along with those that were unbelievers. Our faith was rewarded when we escaped the destruction of our world, and once more the Gods smiled upon us when we discovered this world. I have searched the ruins and lost documents of our Lords, the Forerunners, and they have left a piece of their legacy on this planet.”

The minor Prophet that had spoken before dared to speak again, stepping forward slightly.

“Your Holiness, you speak the words of the enlightened and the wise, but what shall we do with the uncouth creatures that inhabit this world?”

The High Prophet turned once more to look upon the others gathered about.

“The question has already been answered,” the High Prophet of Law explained. “The creatures of this planet, while ignorant of the heritage that the Forerunner have left behind, are strong and tactical. Their strength and devotion will serve us whilst we recover our Lords bequeathal.”

“But how will we get them to serve us?” the minor Prophet asked.

“Savages are tamed when thrown a few scraps of meat, and this will be no different. We will give them a glimpse at the splendor and beauty of what we have sought to recover on this world. Deceiving them once they have become enraptured will be an easy task. Their existence will depend on us, as we are the offspring of a greater race, and an even greater civilization.”

----------------------------------

Something is wrong.

Forlumee clutched the spear in his hands tightly, a cold feeling of dread slowly enveloping him. He turned and rested against the side of one of the buildings, one hand coming up to press against his chest.

Why am I filled with apprehension? I have fought these vermin before. There is no reason why I should fear them.

The Sangheili in his company had scattered out through the city, together in squads as they worked their way through the ancient structures. Already they had discovered several groups of the enemy. Their deaths had been quick, a factor Forlumee found himself loath to carry out, as he had wished to let their screams fill the air for the murder that had taken place within the city. Stealth and surprise was their upper hand however, and as such the enemy needed to be killed quickly, and soundlessly.

Something nagged at the back of the Sangheili Commander’s head regardless, and he couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong. The invading heathens had never stayed in a ravaged city before, and this break in tradition was puzzling to the warrior.

It is as if they have some duty here. Some kind of task that they must carry out.

Taking several clear breaths, Forlumee pushed off the wall and continued on his way. His spear held tight, the warrior ducked into one of the buildings. These buildings had been constructed of clay and stone long ago, and their age was a testament to the true genius of the architecture. Akhenaten had been declared a Holy City, one of which would be preserved so that future generations of Sangheili could see the ingenuity and creativity of their ancestors. For many cycles the city had stood proud, and now these heathens were defiling it with their presence and the murder of innocent Sangheili.

Forlumee moved swiftly, his height and heavy build belayed his agility as he made not a sound with each passing step. He had meant to get his warriors angered and bloodthirsty so that they would eliminate the enemy no matter what happened, but it seemed as if his speech had gotten to Forlumee himself. His mandibles opened and snapped together hard, his inner instincts screaming at the urge to rip the flesh from the invaders with his own mouth. Pushing those thoughts aside forcibly, the Sangheili warrior slipped through another building, and heard alien voices up ahead.

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The vermin are searching for something, I am sure of it, Forlumee reasoned. As silent as we have been, it is inconceivable that they would not know of our presence here. Yet they still linger, their actions proclaiming their intent but still keeping us in the dark. What do they seek? Are they attempting to set up a camp? Or perhaps a command post?

Forlumee inched towards the archway that led to where the voices were originating. Their strange dialect had yet to make sense, despite the many seasons the war between the two races had raged. The Sangheili High Council had scoffed at the idea of capturing some of the invading heathens to learn their language, deeming the action beneath them. Aki Forlumee wasn't one to question his superiors decisions, but at the moment he found himself wishing they had chosen otherwise.

Shifting the spear to his left hand, Forlumee pushed around the archway and headed straight for the group of invaders standing with a strange devise in the middle of a back alley. One of them turned and was taken aback by the sight of Forlumee charging at them with a spear, and spoke fast to the others. Curved blades were pulled from their robes and they assumed a defensive position. The Sangheili had the advantage over them with his weapon, as he had learned from experience that while these creatures possessed crafts that could sail in the sky above his home world and shoot streams of fire, they were weak against combat on the ground. He was still wary however since while it would be little effort to eliminate one or two of these creatures, fighting four would require caution.

Forlumee's hands molded to the spear and he crouched low, keeping his legs apart. The Sangheili as a species possessed great balance, their hoof-like feet bestowed them with unfailing grace, and their legs were double-jointed which gave them superior leg strength. Tensing his body, Forlumee held the spear slightly below his chest, the sharpened blade on the end held out. His face was a mask of impassiveness, and he kept his eyes hard as they pierced into the aliens.

One of the creatures broke its stance and charged Forlumee, it's blade held high. The Sangheili remained firm as he watched the alien grow closer, and begin to swing the blade it held through the air. Reacting swiftly, Forlumee swung the spear across, knocking the creatures arm aside. As it stumbled forward, he flipped the spear around, and slammed the butt end of the shaft against the creature's skull. A satisfying crack filled the air as the body slumped to the ground, and Forlumee resumed his stance.

The remaining invaders looked unsettled, and without preamble they charged at the lone Sangheili. In a surprising motion, Forlumee turned and began to run back from where he had come. The aliens, thinking they had the advantage, began to chase.

Come fools, hurry to your death.

Slowing his pace, Forlumee glanced behind him to see that one of the aliens had begun to pull away from the other two. His speed would prove to be his undoing.

As the gap closed between the two races, Forlumee slammed his feet down to the ground, stopping himself mid-stride and pivoting he bent down to the ground, holding his spear at an angle so the blade pointed upwards. The alien could not stop himself in time, and was impaled upon the spear. The blade fell from his hands and clattered to the ground while it thrashed weakly. Tossing the spear aside with the creature still impaled, the Sangheili scooped up the blade that had been discarded. The remaining two creatures had stopped their charge, and were beginning to realize the peril of their situation.

"Run as far as you wish vermin," Forlumee sneered. "You will die this day, and so will the rest of your kind."

Almost as if they could understand the words he had spoken, the creatures turned and began to flee. Forlumee was faster nevertheless, and their bodies soon joined the others upon the ground. He cast aside the enemy's blade, and walked back to where he had left his spear. The creature had passed on in the time it had taken to kill the other two, and Forlumee spared it no second glance as he ripped his spear free.

What is it that these creatures were doing? Forlumee asked himself as he strode towards the device that the aliens had been attending to. Bending down he picked it up off the ground, studying it intently. It wasn’t much larger than his palm. The devise was spherical in design, and glowed with a strange light. A series of incomprehensive writings were written below the strange light. They appeared to be a string of triangles, lines, and dots. The dialect was unfamiliar to Forlumee, and he decided he would hold onto the device for now, and would turn it over to the High Council once the remaining vermin were exterminated.

Forlumee started off down the alley, but was stopped when he heard heavy steps coming his way. Pressing himself flat up against the wall, he moved down to the corner and waited, spear poised at the ready. His attack was held though, when two Sangheili warriors appeared.

“Commander!” one of them ground out as it panted.

“What is it? Has something happened?” Forlumee asked, the exhausted state of the warriors making him somewhat nervous.

“In the Council Chamber, we’ve found something,” the other warrior explained. “You must see it.”

Forlumee felt a pulse of heat come from the devise he had taken from the slain invaders, and his free hand flew to his side and pulled it out. The strange light had risen in intensity, causing spots to fill the Sangheili’s vision. Forlumee replaced the devise and turned back to the other two warriors.

“I will come.”

---------------------------------

“Excuse this unworthy one, your Holiness,” a minor Prophet spoke from behind the High Prophet of Law. “The ship has received a signal. We have found the structure.”

The High Prophet of Law nodded absentmindedly and responded, “Keep me informed.” His gaze did not leave the front of the bridge, where it had stayed for such a time that the others were beginning to grow uneasy.

There was a sense of urgency amongst the Prophets inhabiting the Forgotten Legacy, yet no one knew what it was they were expected to do. Leadership had fallen onto the shoulders of the High Prophet of Law as he was the most aged of all the Prophets that had escaped their home world before the purging and cleansing began. His motives however, aside from the blind faith devoted to the Forerunner heritage, was a mystery to all others. None could seek solace in his words, and yet there was not one of them that dared open their mouths to oppose him.

High Prophets possessed abilities that reached far and beyond what could be accomplished with physical limitations alone. Their minds were of such a breed that they could cultivate the physical morphology to the environment. Objects moved with simple motions was mere child’s play to those of the hierarchy.

Their purpose on this world would remain a mystery to the Prophets however, and all of the Sangheili but one.

---------------------------------

The arrival at the Council Chamber, the site where the High Council members would meet and converse over the direction of the Sangheili culture, was timed at the exact moment the alien ship appeared above the city.

Forlumee had shouted an order for the Sangheili warriors gathered around and inside the chamber to retreat, but it had come to late. The ship sent a wave of fire washing over the chamber, burning the ancient structure down in a hail of rock and clay. Those that had been inside or close to the chamber had been killed in an instant.

Rage burned within the Sangheili Commander, but he forced himself to remain calm. The vermin scum that had ravaged his home would pay dearly for this atrocity, but he would first need to be given the opportunity.

That opportunity would have to wait however, since the alien ship began to fire at the surrounding buildings and homes. With his death literally moments away from falling upon him, Forlumee made a split-second decision. The ruins of the Council Chamber had only been attacked once, and if the words of the Sangheili warriors could be believed, something existed beneath it.

“Everyone into the Council Chamber!” Forlumee bellowed. His warriors stared back for a moment before understanding hit them and they rushed for the collapsed structure. The Sangheili Commander waited until he was sure all of his warriors that were alive had heard and begun to execute his order.

Pumping his legs hard Forlumee charged towards the wreckage of the ancient structure. The alien ship had understood his intention however, and Forlumee could almost feel the flames from their weapons closing the gap between them. His continued performance as a field commander proved useful however, for his repeated physical activity had kept him quick.

With a final push, Forlumee leapt into the crater that had once been the Council Chamber, and was pleased to note that his assumption had been correct. The alien ship had impeded its course and avoided his destination.

Tumbling down through melted rock and clay, the Sangheili Commander freefell for a long moment, his eyes wide as a vast underground lake opened up below the crater. He had only a few moments to revel in its beauty, for he quickly plunged into the water. The disorientation that enveloped him quickly faded and he swam upwards, breaking the surface loudly.

  • 03.08.2005 9:01 PM PDT
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Casting his eyes about, Forlumee spotted his warriors emerging from the lake at some kind of beachhead. Without a second thought he began to swim towards it. As he swan, Forlumee began to puzzle over what had transpired moments ago.

This is the first time since our war began that the vermin scum have brought one of their crafts this close to our planet’s surface. Whatever that is underneath the Council Chamber must be what they were searching for. How fitting that we will come to possess it before them.

Several of his warriors had stayed back and waited for him while he swan towards them, and they instructed him that what they had seen in the Council Chamber before was up ahead. Forlumee followed them wordlessly, his eyes working hard to adjust to the harsh darkness that prevailed around them.

By the time they had reached the others, he could make out an outline of something large in the distance. The Sangheili gathered before it did not even turn to regard Forlumee as he approached, so taken with it’s splendor were they.

“Commander, have the High Council ever spoken of this structure before?” one of the warriors asked. Forlumee could only look up in awe at what captivated them all.

“No,” he responded, at a loss for words. His riveted attention was pulled away only when the devise shoved into his armor began to produce a great warmth. As he reached in and pulled the devise free, Forlumee had the good grace to warn the others to close their eyes. His warning proved well deserved when a flash of light was emitted so severe even their clenched eyes burned from the brightness produced.

The light burned away eventually, and Forlumee opened his eyes warily. The heat the device had produced still lingered, but the intensity of the light had faded, and now a dull glowing ebb remained. The written text he had noticed before now glowed brightly, their outlines seemingly lifted off the devise and sustained within the air itself. Raising a hand tentatively, Forlumee pressed each icon, triangles, lines, and dots. Each icon that was pressed slowly dimmed, and finally the light produced from the devise disappeared entirely, bathing the collected Sangheili in darkness once more.

A low hum caught their attention, and its origin was from the giant structure that lay before them. Forlumee stepped out purposely, his curiosity demanding he know what was going on. His steps carried him closer to the looming edifice, and he dimly noted that the other Sangheili had fallen in behind him. The incandescent feel of the devise had disappeared, leaving behind a smooth cool feeling.

The imposing architecture of the building was even more evident as they approached, bringing an almost dread-like feeling to the handful of Sangheili warriors. Forlumee pressed on, regardless of what awaited them.

When they had come within a few feet of the large, spacious doors, a splitting hiss noise was omitted, and the doors slowly parted. With baited breaths they waited, expecting some kind of demon to reach out and rip them apart. Nothing came out, and with a glance at one another the Sangheili crossed the threshold, entering the structure.

If only there was some light within this construct, we could see what awaits us, Forlumee mused. He was quickly taken aback, as the moment that thought crossed his mind the room suddenly became lucent. The source of the light was beyond wherever their eyes could pierce, yet it did not fail to cover every corner.

“What is this place?” Forlumee spoke aloud. He had not intended to speak his thoughts, but it did not matter, as the other warriors were too captivated to respond.

Not an inch of space was without polish, every design upon the flooring and walls was marked with pristine glory. Light seemed to uncover every nook and cranny, despite the curving nature of the ceiling that would have normally cast the areas in shadow. The walls were outfitted with large metal braces, and the curved ceiling appeared to stretch on for eternity above them.

Aki Forlumee had never been so fascinated with a piece of architecture in his life. Everything about this edifice screamed to be revered and studied closely. Simply by being inside of the structure he felt as if his presence was defiling the virginal beauty of it. Looking at the other Sangheili he knew they felt the same way.

His inquisitiveness forced him to proceed regardless of his personal feelings, and he continued on his way. The entrance hallways had another set of sliding doors that parted when he approached, and they led into a spherical room with a central point of convergence. Forlumee’s legs carried him onward, as if they knew where he wanted to go. Exiting that room and continuing on, Forlumee noted that the others were no longer behind him, but it seemed of little consequence to him. The introversion of this structure was of more importance.

Eventually the grandly designed rooms tapered off into more secluded corridors that stretched for great distances. He continued on, undaunted and determined to see what lay at the end of this winding trail.

Forlumee was rewarded for his patience, as a final corridor led into a grand chamber. One that rivaled the architectural beauty of the entire edifice itself. A lone walkway led out to the center of the chamber and broke off into two separate paths that formed a circle. The devise held within his armor began to ebb once more, but Forlumee paid it no mind as he lingered slightly before moving forward.

I have never witnessed such great beauty in my life. To think that such a structure has survived beneath our Holy City for such an extensive time. What creatures contrived this place? And for what purpose? Could this be a gift bestowed upon us by the Gods, to be used against our enemy in a time of need? Fate has dictated that we discover this structure, so a higher purpose must be preordained for us.

He stopped his advance before a console of some creation. Once more the controls seemed to exist within the air itself, suspended by some invisible force. Forlumee’s hand reached out, acting on its own and was about to press one of the icons when a shout sounded from behind him.

Snapping from him daze, Forlumee grabbed for his spear, only to remember he had dropped his weapon when he had plunged into the lake. He spun around to face the entrance to the chamber. Standing at the far end of the chamber were a group of the aliens. Snarling to himself for failing to notice them until they had snuck upon him, Forlumee tensed his body and prepared to charge head on with his enemy. The aliens seemed to be unconcerned however, as they parted ranks and cast glances back behind them.

Forlumee watched in confusion as another one of the aliens stepped into the chamber. It was decidedly older than any of the other invaders he had seen, and it gazed upon him with aged eyes that appeared as if they saw right through him. The elder alien spoke softly with the other aliens, then resumed it’s slow pace down the path that led straight to the Sangheili Commander. Forlumee felt himself grow tense unconsciously as it approached, but the seemingly impassive nature of the alien set his mind at ease.

“Do not fret, we mean you no harm.”

Shock slammed into Forlumee as his native dialect was emitted from the alien. It had not occurred to him that the enemy would take the time to study their language when even the High Council had decided it to be a waste of time.

As Forlumee stared in surprise, the ancient alien seemed to smile at him.

“I see you are surprised,” the creature said. “I believe it would come as quite a shock to you to know that we studied your society’s language long before we invaded your planet.”

Why has this creature not attacked me? Forlumee puzzled to himself. He was at a great disadvantage at the moment. He was unarmed, and the enemy outnumbered him greatly. Even with luck on his side he would be hard pressed to win any kind of engagement that might start.

"I am the Prophet of Faith, and I command the ship that lay seige to this city," the alien said simply. Forlumee felt his temper flare and prepared to lash out at the creature when the Prophet suddenly bowed it's head low.

"For the unjust actions we have taken against your kind, I hold myself below you," the Prophet of Faith said, head still bowed. Forlumee forgot about his rage with the unfamiliar action taken by the Prophet, and watched in amazement as the creature remained in the same position.

"You may rise," Forlumee said, confused. As the Prophet rose, the Sangheili cast his eyes back to the entranceway where the other Prophets stood. "Where are the rest of my warriors?"

The Prophet of Faith turned and began to walk back out of the chamber, beckoning Forlumee to follow.

"I am afraid they were not so quick to listen to reason as you, and we were forced to dispatch them," the Prophet of Faith explained, his voice devoid of emotion. "We did not end their lives however, to stain this holy place with any creatures blood would be an act of transgression against the Gods themselves."

"You know of who built this place?" the Sangheili Commander asked.

"It was our ancestors, the Forerunner. This structure is one of many located in thousands of galaxies, a monument to their great society."

Falling into silence, the two Commanders began walking through the maze of rooms that would lead them back to the entrance. Once they arrived, Forlumee moved to the fallen forms of his Sangheili and was relieved to see that the Prophet had not deceived him. They still breathed.

"Tell me, Sangheili, how did you come to activate the doors of this structure?"

[Edited on 3/8/2005 9:08:09 PM]

  • 03.08.2005 9:03 PM PDT
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Despite Forlumee's confusion over the entire situation, he recognized a loaded question when he heard one. The devise he had taken from the Prophets in the city streets seemed to grow hotter against his skin.

"As we approached the doors slid open. When we entered the structure became aglow with light."

Forlumee had kept his voice tight, and barren of any kind of emotion, yet he was certain the Prophet knew he had lied.

"I see," the Prophet of Faith said. "Well then, I would request of you to enter our ship so that we may go to meet your leaders, this development must be quickly sorted out, and I will require your assistance in ensuring our safety once we land."

"Of course," Forlumee responded, though the tone in the Prophet's voice set an uneasy feeling within him.

Why do I feel as if I have been deluded?

-----------------------------------

“Our actions were harsh, and unprovoked. We the Prophets, offspring of the Forerunner, request that you overlook our overzealous actions.”

Forlumee watched from the far end of the spherical chamber, where the Prophet of Faith was speaking with the leaders from the many tribes of the Sangheili. Their initial arrival had been subject to high scrutiny, as the entire city’s guard had been raised when the alien ship was spotted approaching. When the only creature that descended from the craft was Aki Forlumee, the city as a whole was stupefied.

After a quick council with the tribe leaders, Forlumee had returned to the ship and once more descended, this time in the company of the Prophet of Faith. The initial reaction of the other Sangheili had been near open hostility, as one of the leaders to their embedded enemy was walking freely amongst them.

The Prophet of Faith had brought with him several objects, much like the one that Forlumee had found on the other Prophets. One of the devises had simply been a circular orb, made of a material the Sangheili had never seen before. The Prophet had brought the objects with him to demonstrate to the Sangheili leaders what it is the Prophets were searching for.

Simply by holding the orb aloft, and closing his eyes in concentration, the Prophet of Faith was able to cultivate an image that sprung forth from the orb. The image was being transmitted somehow by the orb, and was suspended within the air itself by an unknown force. Forlumee saw that what the Prophet of Faith showed the others were a series of structures similar to what he had discovered beneath the Council Chamber in Akhenaten. The tribe leaders and other Sangheili dignitaries had stared at the images in awe, much the same as Forlumee surmised he had done.

The uneasy feeling that had settled within him shortly after leaving the Forerunner structure had yet to dissipate. Something seemed entirely wrong with the whole situation, whether it was the Prophets’ true motives or the purpose of the Forerunner structure, he did not know.

After the display had ended, the Prophet of Faith had explained how the Prophets had been born on a Forerunner planet, and had left it in search of other Forerunner installations. The discovery of the Sangheili home world was confirmation that their journey had been determined by the Forerunner themselves.

The Prophet of Faith then spoke of how the identification of the Sangheili themselves upon the planet had blinded them with rage. The war that resulted from that was a test put upon them by the Forerunner to analyze their faith. He demonstrated this by explaining how the location of the Forerunner structure beneath the Sangheili city had only been discovered through the course of battle.

Now that there was confirmation that both races had originated on Forerunner planets, the war between them would be unnecessary, and an affront to the Gods.

Forlumee had noted that when the Prophet of Faith spoke of the Gods, it was almost as if he was fighting not to say the word ‘Forerunner’. The Sangheili Commander admitted to himself that the Prophet had produced a compelling argument, and if he was not so suspicious of their motives he would have believed every word. The Prophet was holding something back, Forlumee could see it.

Throughout his speech the Prophet of Faith had kept his face impassive, but Forlumee was a skilled warrior and he knew how to read his enemies.

This Prophet is enraged. To prostrate himself before his mortal enemy, and speak with them as if they were an equal is demeaning to him. For him to force himself to do so means there is another Prophet who has ordered him to do this. But why? What purpose could these creatures have to try and end the war between us?

Forlumee was loath to admit, but each season the alien invaders had begun to push the Sangheili back, slowly and surely. City after city fell to their onslaught, and without any turn in their favor, they would soon be wiped out. For the enemy to suddenly turn around and declare peace, just as victory looked assured, what could be the purpose?

As he shifted his eyes to where the Sangheili tribe leaders sat, Forlumee noted that they were traded looks with one another.

They will accept this offer of peace, whether it is simply for the good of their people or for some other cause. Whatever the reason, the war between us shall end. Should this not fill me with glee? For such a time I have seen my brothers fall in combat, their lives ended prematurely. Would not my mate and my child be pleased? No longer shall I worry over their fates.

The concern did not fade, and Forlumee could do nothing more but dwell on it while the tribe leaders began to speak.

“You speak words of truth, noble Prophet,” a tribe leader from the north said. “The technology you have presented us is proof of your holy task, and of the heritage that we share. If it is within my power I shall say there will be peace between us.”

One by one the other tribe leaders pledged their offers of peace, until finally High Councilman Garsunee was left.

“I have watched for many seasons as this war has raged between our races. Watched as your ships burned our cities to the ground, murdering our innocent. Does the discovery of a link between our cultures somehow make all that disappear?”

Forlumee felt a slow smirk spread on his face as Garsunee’s words echoed within him. The High Council member was one of the few political leaders the Sangheili Commander could respect. His concern and devotion to the Sangheili as a whole was renowned. As he turned, Forlumee could see that the Prophet of Faith had not expected that outburst. His face had turned from surprise, to anger, and switched quickly back to impassiveness in the blink of an eye.

“I have spoken of our misdeeds, and wish to rectify what dishonorable grievances we have exacted upon your people. Our intent was pure, but our actions were overzealous. Should you request we leave your planet we shall do so, but I must ask you to do otherwise. The Forerunner placed their faith within us to carry out their legacy, and to continue their culture. Should we fall from that path even the Gods would not forgive us.”

Garsunee eyed the Prophet intently before grunting loudly.

“I will speak with the tribe leaders and we will decide what our course shall be, until then, I offer you sanctuary within the walls of this building.”

That offer is not as kind as the others think, Forlumee thought. By keeping the Prophet here he can keep a close eye on him, and ensure that there is no trickery about.

As the council got up from their seats, Forlumee moved from his spot in the far end of the chamber and walked towards the Prophet of Faith.

“I will show you to your chambers,” he said as sincerely as possible. The Prophet followed wordlessly behind Forlumee as he led him through the hallways of the inner chamber and into the east wing, where the sleeping garrison was housed. He showed the Prophet to a spare room and then parted with him, mentally noting that several other Prophets had followed them and gone in with the Prophet of Faith.

As Forlumee returned to where the council had left, High Councilman Garsunee stepped from the shadows before him.

“A word please, Commander,” Garsunee said, turning and walking into the chamber. It had since emptied save for a few Sangheili that talked amongst themselves over the new developments.

Garsunee led him to the far end of the chamber, where Forlumee had watched the proceedings. The elder Councilman stared out of the chamber where the city of Corinphi lay.

“Tell me what your thoughts are about these new developments. Are these Prophets speaking the truth?”

Forlumee twitched his mandibles a few times as he collected his thoughts. Councilman Garsunee would want to hear everything that he knew.

“I saw the Forerunner structure beneath the Council Chamber in Akhenaten. Whatever built that structure was a far more advanced race than the Sangheili,” Forlumee said, slightly uneasy about talking with a High Council member as an equal, but Garsunee did not seem troubled so he continued.

“There is truth in what the Prophets say, their ships that can sail within the sky and reign fire upon our cities is a testament to that. They are indeed descendants of the Forerunner, or they at least possess their technology. Whatever their reasons for stopping their campaign against us, we must be thankful that it has come.”

“You do not believe they are contrite over their invasion of our world?” Garsunee asked, and Forlumee shook his head slowly.

[Edited on 3/8/2005 9:10:18 PM]

  • 03.08.2005 9:05 PM PDT
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“No, or at least the Prophet of Faith does not. He may have acted with humility but he loathed every moment of it. There must be someone of a higher rank that is forcing him to do this, and I cannot say for certain just why that is.”

Garsunee nodded his head and seemed to look off in space for a moment.

“Thank you for your time Commander,” Garsunee said finally, and Forlumee bowed low to him. He was surprised when the Councilman’s hand fell upon his shoulder. “You should be commended for your skill in battle, and your even greater skill out of it.”

Forlumee puzzled over Garsunee’s parting words as he decided to return to his barracks. The Sangheili Commander yearned to return to his dwelling inside the city, and see his mate along with his newborn child, but duty came first. He would return to his home early the next morning before the day began.

Unlike many of the Sangheili, Forlumee could read and write, and he had taken to keeping notes on his battles as a Commander lately. The scrolls of paper had been his only indulgence since his promotion to Commander, and he greatly enjoyed keeping logs of what occurred from day to day. He sat upon the chair before his desk and readied the ink. Pausing slightly to collect his thoughts, Forlumee unconsciously fingered the strange devise he still held with him, and then began to write.

From whence I came to this city earlier today, I had thought my time would be spent preparing for battle and then taking back the city of Akhenaten. True this is how things began, but quite quickly things turned away from the norm.

I recovered a strange relic that was…


----------------------------------

The night air was a welcome addition to the stressful nature that had followed throughout the day. Aki Forlumee stood upon the upper balcony of the Council Chamber, watching the city sleep. The gentle breeze brought with it a calming notion, seemingly lifting all of his worries away. The Prophet ship that floated off to the far end of the city was the only thing that detracted from the moment, and Forlumee wished it would move, as its looming presence was a constant reminder of what had occurred.

Once he had finished his writings, Forlumee placed the strange devise he had retrieved in with his papers, and then taken a light stroll around the council chamber. Aside from a few guards, the entire city appeared to be asleep. His wanderings eventually brought him up to the balcony that looked out upon Corinphi.

Would this night never end, perhaps my mind would finally be at peace.

Resigning himself, Forlumee was about to rise from the balcony ledge when he felt something fall against him. His instincts kicked in, and the Sangheili caught what had fallen on him. He nearly dropped it though, when he realized he was holding Councilor Garsunee. A large gash had been sliced across the elder’s chest, and blood spilled from the wound.

“Forl…u..mee,” the strangled gasp escaped the elder Sangheili as his life drained before Forlumee’s eyes. The Sangheili Commander watched in a stupor as the Councilor’s blood covered his hands and arms.

Footsteps falling behind him snapped Forlumee out of it and he cradled Garsunee’s lifeless body in his arms and turned. Three Prophets stood at the entrance of balcony, blades drawn. One of their weapons was stained red, and the Sangheili Commander snarled at the creature, setting Garsunee’s body upon the ground.

“I knew you scum were incapable of peace!”

Forlumee urged his body forward, his body already tensing to rip the Prophets apart, but it would not respond. The Prophet with the bloody dagger slid the blade along the ground out in front of him, and Forlumee reached down and picked it up against his will.

What is happening to me? Why can’t I move!?

As the Sangheili struggled, the Prophet of Faith emerged from the shadows of the balcony and moved towards them, amusement playing across his features.

“The power of the wisest amongst the Prophets is nothing to sneer at, you animal.”

Forlumee screamed inside of his mind as his muscles began to spasm from his exertions.

“The Council will have your body paraded through the streets!” the Sangheili growled as the dagger in his hand inched closer to his throat. A laugh spilled forth from the aged Prophet and he looked down at Garsunee’s corpse beside Forlumee.

“It will not be my corpse that shall be ravaged fool. Councilor Garsunee was murdered by you after he refused to listen to your pleas of continuing the war against us, and when you realized what you had done, you took your own life. I’m sure the other councilors will understand, as such a high amount of tension on your shoulders has made you break under the weight of it all.”

“Damn you.”

No sooner had the words left Forlumee’s mouth that the dagger in his hands slid across his throat, cutting deeply into his larynx and cutting off any further retorts.

The Prophet of Mercy turned to the other Prophets and gestured for them to leave.

“Come, we must make sure no one has seen us. The bodies will be discovered early in the morning.”

Forlumee felt his eyes burn with unbidden tears.

I do not want to die.

-----------------------------------

The bodies of Aki Forlumee and High Councilman Garsunee were discovered the next morning by a patrolling Sangheili guard.

The High Prophet of Law arrived on the planet that day, and together with the tribe leaders and other councilors, created a binding oath amongst them. A binding contract all Prophets and Sangheili were forced to follow.

The Covenant was created as the final rays of light disappeared.

----------------------------------

Author’s Notes (again) : Well, there you go. The Age of Abandonment. There’s still 5 other untouched Ages to go however, so don’t think we’re out of the woods just yet.


If anybody skimmed through the chapter I must say that it would be in your best interest to read the entire thing. Everything that occurs in this chapter has heavy foreshadowing towards where this story is headed.

Thanks everybody, this chapter took a little bit longer than usual to get out.

[Edited on 3/9/2005 10:45:50 PM]

  • 03.08.2005 9:12 PM PDT
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wooooooooow, that took me almost an hour to read, that was wonderful, the whole "monument" made me think of the one in the first strike... interesting, i wonder how things such as the taming of the hunters and the grunt rebellion will turn out, keep on a going clark, pure gold man, pure gold

  • 03.08.2005 9:54 PM PDT
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*stares at computer screen for insurmountable amount of time*

*begins to applaud loudly, scaring everyone next to me*

Mr. C, that was beautiful. That chapter could stand alone as its own individual work, but to simply be another great addition to your already amazing piece of literature, I am speechless.

I absolutely cannot wait for your next installment in this retelling of the Covenant's history. You are a Halo GOD!

  • 03.09.2005 12:08 AM PDT
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I am extremely happy and dissapointed at the same time.

On one hand, this work is amazing and quite interesting indeed. Mr. Clark, you really are a great writer indeed.

On the other hand, if there are going to be 5 more of these, then that's going to be quite a while before we even hear from the MC or the Arbiter again, which is a mild dissapointment because I like how you portrayed their characters. I was also hoping to find out what's going on on Earth, but I guess I can wait.

  • 03.09.2005 12:35 AM PDT
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That was awe-inspiring.

....I really don't know what else to say, other than, hell your skills are too good to be wasted on simple fanfiction. You should be writing actual novels and getting them published and becoming famous.

But since you love us so much, I know you won't do something that crazy.

Keep up the good work my man.

  • 03.09.2005 12:37 AM PDT
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One word:
o o
O

That was awesum

  • 03.09.2005 12:52 AM PDT