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Subject: Honour of a Heretic: Shackles of Blasphemy COMPLETE STORY, PLEASE READ

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

Hi Bungie Community,

This is a fan fiction I've been working on for the past 5 months and have finally finished it.
This is the story of an Elite Councillor called Kahzdan 'Verohmee who witnesses the torture and branding of his friend, Thel 'Vadamee who if you don't know is the future and final Arbiter.
I hope you enjoy this, it goes through the numerous gaps in Halo 2 and covers a few different plots.

CHAPTER LIST:
0) Prologue
1) The Cost of Failure
2) Guidence and Sin
3) Crystal Clear
4) Rampant Intelligence
5) Fight and Flight
6) The Turning Point
7) Sesa 'Refumee
8) A Day in the Death
9) Candor
10) Honour of a Heretic
EPILOGUE: The Angel and the Fog

SOUNDTRACK SECTION:
Kahzdan's Theme
Thel's Theme TBA
Sesa's Theme
Candor's Theme
Tartarus' Theme
Truth's Theme
The Angel's Theme
Chronicle 1- Gemini
Chronicle 2-
Chronicle 3- Step of Silence
Chronicle 4-
Chronicle 5-
Chronicle 6-
Chronicle 7-
Chronicle 8-
Chronicle 9-
Chronicle 10-
Epilogue-

This is my gift to the community and Bungie, I have put alot of effort into this and any feedback is greatly appreciated.

[Edited on 02.06.2009 2:58 PM PST]

  • 01.16.2009 3:32 PM PDT
Subject: Honour of a Heretic: Shackles of Blasphemy

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

HONOUR OF A HERETIC
SHACKLES OF BLASPHEMY

PROLOGUE:
HIGH CHARITY, HOLY CITY
9th AGE OF RECLAMATION
SANCTUM OF THE HOLY PROPHETS

Along a massive walkway leading into the depths of the Council Chamber, guarded by the noblest warriors hand-picked by the Hierarchs themselves, was a single Sangheili...Me.
Standing nearly three metres tall with enmeshed and illuminated white armour, the Sangheili Elite Councillor was the highest rank attainable for both military and political purposes. These creatures, which go by their race name Sangheili, were elegant and noble beasts – the military leaders of the Covenant. The aliens walked on haunches that ended on large hooves and their stooped muscular bodies were covered in a scaly flesh offering the look of a reptile. Their arms are long and come to an end with four ambidextrous and tapered fingers, capable of wrapping tight round their deadly Covenant weaponry with deft ease. Their heads were flat, with two pairs of mandibles covering their guttural vocal passages. They had keen yet hollow eyes, resembling that of a shark’s. This comparison didn’t end here, as it was clear the Sangheili had been evolving for millions of years leading them to the path of predatory superiority on their home planet, Sangheilios.
I was unnoticeably different from all the others though; my barbaric ancestors had given my family a deep reputation of fear and feigned respect.

I was now at the entrance to the Council Chamber. The many Honour Guards stood straight in ornate crimson armour which had a glowing orange combination of jutting spikes protruding from their helmets.
“Kahzdan 'Verohmee,” The Honour Guard at the door said. He wasn’t pleased to see me; he just stood with his energy pike in his hands with a look of anguish disgust on his face.
“Yes, I am expected at the hearing if you’ll excuse me.” I said calmly.
The Honour Guard just glared at me as if I was an insignificant drone to him, this was unfair judgment. I outranked him as a Councillor and was being judged by my family line.
The door slid open with a gentle hiss and I entered the massive chamber.
“Kahzdan 'Verohmee, you are late!” A cold, harsh voice said.
“My apologies noble Prophet of Mercy, I have no excuse.” I said as I gingerly trudged through the chamber.
He, like the Honour Guard, glared at me and pointed a frail long finger at an empty seat.

The so called “Prophets” are a cover name for what they are called; their race name is San ‘Shyuum.
They hold a God-like status in the Covenant, they are in charge of all political affairs and strategies, and they exert all control over the movements of the Covenant.
San ‘Shyuum are a mammal looking species, they are physically frail and incapable of holding “proper” weapons. Clearly this was a race that has seen its peak and is now rapidly degenerating.
Their wrinkled skin is usually a light brown/greyish pink; their necks are long and support a small head with the brain visible in the back of it. They glide around in Gravity Thrones with two heavy Energy Cannons on either side.
On the side of the San ‘Shyuum’s heads there is distinct furry skin lobes dangling down and under their chin is a small beard. The two hands are long and only have three elongated fingers; on top of their heads are golden crowns with a small hologram of a rotating ring.

I took a seat after getting to my row; the other Councillor moved a seat up away from him. I stared at the other Sangheili in vain curiosity.
“Is there a problem?!” I asked.
The Councillor didn’t answer, I was about to speak but was swiftly silenced by the bellowing echo of the Prophet of Regret’s voice.
“All rise!”
All the Council members stood, I stared around the chamber to see if there was anyone I recognised.
“Sit!”
I was last to sit down but nobody took any notice because the door had opened and a Sangheili Supreme Commander walked in escorted by two Brutes.
I recognised the figure at once; it was my old friend Thel 'Vadamee, known as the Supreme Commander of the Fleet of Particular Justice.
“Heretic, stand on the podium.” Regret said.
Thel ‘Vadamee sighed at hearing the words coming at him, Heretic. He was accused of allowing the Demon destroy the sacred ring which had impeded our walk on the path of the Great Journey.
“So tell us, Heretic. What happened before you arrived on the sacred ring?” Mercy asked.
“We,” ‘Vadamee paused as Mercy and Regret tilted their heads slightly.
“I gave the order to glass the planet Reach; I gave the order to glass it and destroy any human vessel that dared impede our progress!” ‘Vadamee continued.
The two Prophets nodded and Mercy flourished his hand, examining his long fingernails.
“You destroyed, ALL of their ships?” Regret asked.
“Most of them, we saw one fly through the Slipspace portal made to get to Reach.”
“How many did you say?”
“There was only one ship.” ‘Vadamee answered he was retaining an awful lot of courage and pride despite the situation he was in.
“One, are you sure?” A new voice came, it echoed through the Council Chamber and it made me shudder.
“Yes. They called it, Pillar of Autumn,”
“Why was it not destroyed with the rest of their fleet?!” Mercy croaked. He was losing patience.
“They fled, when we set fire to their planet. But I followed with all the ships in my command.”
There was a distinct amount of muttering from the crowd now, I looked down at the walkway and saw the Brute Chieftain Tartarus.
“When you first saw Halo, were you blinded by its majesty?” Regret asked sinisterly.
“Blinded?!” ‘Vadamee asked clearly shocked by Regret’s statement.
“Paralyzed? Dumbstruck?”
“No!”
“Yet the humans were able to evade your ships. Land on the sacred ring, and desecrate it with their filthy footsteps!” Regret raised his voice now and was on the verge of shouting.
“Noble Hierarchs, surely you understand that once the Parasite attacked...” ‘Vadamee was cut off by a roaring crowd and lesser Prophets were standing up jeering at him.
Mercy imposed order by slamming his frail hand on his throne and croaking, “There will be order in this Council!”
A new figure emerged, the one who had spoken before. He raised his three fingered hand to indicate silence and he brought a sinister wave of coldness about him.
“You were right to focus your attention on the Flood but this Demon...This ‘Master Chief’,” The third Prophet said in the absence of noise.
“By the time I learned the Demon’s intent...There was nothing I could do!” Rasped ‘Vadamee.
Tartarus chuckled to himself as the silence erupted into a wave of hatred and annoyance; once again Councillors were standing up and waving fists at the lone soldier under their noses.
“Noble Prophet of Truth this has gone on long enough,” Regret whispered to Truth, the third Prophet. “Make an example of this bungler! The Council demands it.” Regret finished.
Once more Truth held up his hand and the room fell silent once more.
“You are one of our most treasured instruments, long have you led your fleet with honour and distinction. But your inability to safeguard Halo...was a colossal failure.” Truth said.
A lesser Prophet stood out of his chair and waved his fist violently in the air.
“Nay, it was Heresy!” This once again broke the silence. This time, ‘Vadamee would have none of it.
“I will continue my campaign against the humans!” He said proudly.
“NO! You will not.” Truth said there was a faint smile on his face as the words came out.
Truth nodded to the Brute Chieftain Tartarus and he in turn barked at the two Minor Brutes to escort him out the chamber.
“Soon the Great Journey shall begin. But when it does, the weight of your heresy will stay your feet and you shall be left behind!” Truth said mercilessly.
‘Vadamee lowered his head, acknowledging his failure as Supreme Commander. Mercy and Regret cackled with laughter as the Sangheili was taken out of the room and the doors snapped shut behind him.

  • 01.16.2009 3:33 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONICLE ONE: THE COST OF FAILURE
I got out of my seat, the Hierarchs had made their decision and I knew they were sending ‘Vadamee to be tortured for his failure.
The Councillors stood aside for me and when I reached the bottom I saw Tartarus eyeing me with curiosity. I walked past the ape-like Brute and he took his massive hammer off his back. It was the Fist of Rukt.
“Vile beast!” A Councillor murmured as he walked alongside me, I nodded in agreement.
“I’d assume your friend is about to be branded with the Mark of Shame, the Hierarchs...”
“The Hierarchs made the wrong decision! You really believe this is heresy?” I argued, anger was boiling up now.
The other Sangheili looked taken aback and walked off, he disappeared round the back of a pillar and disbanded from the convoy.
I too abandoned the moving crowd to take a detour, I always did this after a meeting. Instead of going across the series of gravity tunnels I walked over to the observation park.
This was a small place where various exotic fauna and flora would grow, plants standing twice the size of a Sangheili and a small stream gently flowing under a bridge.
Though this was a paradise the true beauty came from the overlook beyond an oak tree, a place which was visible to the whole upper part of High Charity.
Way off in the distance was the Forerunner Dreadnaught, found on the San ‘Shyuum thousands of years ago, the city below resembled a dome with many large structures shrouding the city.
I saw in the distance, the Mausoleum of the Arbiter, a place where the so called “vanguards” of the Great Journey lay to rest.
“Malingering again, ‘Verohmee?” A cold voice came.
“Noble Prophet of Truth.” I said, I didn’t turn around but just bowed my head acknowledging his presence.
I heard him glide over, now he was right next to me.
“I get the feeling you are distressed young one. “ Stated Truth. I simply nodded but looked at the massive Dreadnaught, Truth caught me looking at it and raised one of his long fingers, pointing at it.
“Ah yes, it is magnificent is it not? The very symbol of the Sangheili/ San ‘Shyuum alliance.” Truth pulled out a short pipe and added a grimy substance to it.
“Hookah Tobacco?” He asked smiling.
“No thank you,”
He inhaled the aroma of the smoke and a look of relaxation flew over his face.
“I really should stop this, the short term effects are...Pleasurable but long term headaches and complexions follow. Now then, are you going to tell me what is wrong?” Truth said. He took another breath and screwed up his face as he coughed smoke out.
“Its ‘Vadamee, I don’t want to think of what will happen to him now.”
“He has disgraced our Covenant! Broken the Writ of Union and allowed the Demon to destroy our hope in the Prophecy. No punishment is too great, Kahzdan.” I turned, Truth had said my first name. Nobody ever says my first name other than ‘Vadamee. I was quite flattered.
“I do not wish to be there when he is branded, surely you understand that.” I said.
“Indeed, I shall leave you here to your thoughts but be ever vigilant Kahzdan. You shall be on a mission again soon, enjoy what time you have left.” Truth turned and left.
I took one last look at the city, the immensity of the art in front of me. I had made my mind up now, I would be at the branding. I would be there for ‘Vadamee.

I departed from the garden, I had overstayed my time there and walked over to a gravity lift. I looked down it, there was no visible bottom or end to the fall.
I took one final look around, held my breath and leaped head first into the arms beckoning me in to their everlasting embrace. I was spinning around, still in a nose dive and looking to my sides I saw many other Covenant species walking around.
I began to see the bottom now, it was getting closer every second I thought of hitting the ground so I flipped clumsily in the air and managed to get my hoofed feet in a steady position just as I landed with a THUMP!
The doors hissed gently and slid open and I emerged outside as a cold breeze blew on my face, there were many stands where all kinds of Covenant species were gathered.
Grunts, the cannon fodder of the Covenant, were standing on each other’s shoulders screeching “HERETIC...HERETIC...HERETIC!” and Hunters, massive conglomeration of worms in armour, were roaring at the top of their voices.
This was the cost of failure, this was the time where ‘Vadamee was going to be made an example of for heresy of the highest order.
Tartarus was waiting at the end on the long overlook, there were stands about fifty miles away with massive screens observing the event. The noise was deafening as the crowd screeched and shouted until silence fell as the disgraced ‘Vadamee, guided by two Brutes, walked through the door and made his way to a smiling Tartarus.
I saw him ignore the crowd as the noise erupted again and met our ears like a tidal wave, ‘Vadamee once again retained his dignity despite being stripped of it.
Two holographic rings appeared in front of Tartarus and would serve as shackles, there was a fire burning a large metal brand situated next to Tartarus.
‘Vadamee was half walking, half dragged across the floor and finally reached the end of the overlook. Grunts were chanting again as ‘Vadamee was placed in the holographic shackles.
“You’ve drawn quite a crowd,” Grumbled Tartarus.
“If they came to hear me beg, they will be disappointed!” ‘Vadamee responded, there was determination on his face not to be seen as a coward now. Not to let the San ‘Shyuum and the rest of the Covenant have the satisfaction.
“Are you sure?” Tartarus chuckled.
‘Vadamee looked at the two holographic rings as they made a whirring noise and began spinning, a golden beam shot from the two of them and made contact with a helpless ‘Vadamee.
He reared his head, making neither scream nor shout but the distinctive glow in his eyes had gone and was now being crippled by the once he would have once called “allies”.
Deprived of his honour, a Brute came over once the beams had retreated and began removing ‘Vadamee’s rusty gold armour.
“Let there be no greater heresy, let him be an example to all who would break our Covenant!” Roared Tartarus, the whole city was roaring with him. Waving fists at ‘Vadamee and shouting insults at him.
The Brute removed ‘Vadamee’s chest cage and set it down next to him revealing the burned flesh underneath. Finally the helmet came off, the Brute lifted it above his head and threw it off the edge of the overlook roaring in triumph.
Tartarus barked at him to stand back as the fire on the brand had now vanished and he picked it up, as it touched Tartarus’ hand he did not wince in pain as the heat got to his fat hands.
He examined the Mark of Shame which was going to be put on ‘Vadamee, he pulled his arms back first and plunged the burning metallic alloy into ‘Vadamee’s right breast.
The mandibles began to tremble, ‘Vadamee’s head was swaying as the fire burned into him. Tartarus pushing the brand harder into him until ‘Vadamee gave in and let out a scream which echoed around the holy city.

  • 01.16.2009 3:34 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONICLE TWO: GUIDANCE AND SIN
“Put an ear to the stones of this holy city. Inside their voices still echo: The Great Journey starts with Halo” Truth’s voice came as the disgraced ‘Vadamee fell unconscious.
“Let this be an example to everyone here. Who would doubt the Prophets? What have we foretold that hasn’t come to pass? Stay your allegiance with us, even in the darkest of times and you shall have your place on our Great Journey.” Truth continued.
I grew tired of these announcements; he said the same thing every day. Ever since the destruction of the sacred ring by the tenacious Demon many people have split from the Covenant. My fellow Sangheilian brethren along with many Grunts and Hunters, all our moves are being tracked and I believe soon an act of heresy shall break out here in the heart of our civilization.
The Prophets are looking for any kind of motive, and soon I believe they shall have one.

The next day...

My previous anticipation proved correct as the next day I was summoned to the presence of the Hierarchs, to participate in a top secret assignment.
I was guided by two Honour Guards to the Mausoleum of the Arbiter, why I was being summoned into the very presence of our vanguards is a mystery to me. We were approaching a gravity lift, I looked around. I’d never been anywhere near this place before, there was an unnatural change in the wind compared to the rest of the city.
Several kilometres away was the massive suspended sarcophagus, it held the remains of one hundred and eighty two Arbiters who died for the Covenant.
Most of them were disgraced like ‘Vadamee but others were valiant fighters who were given the rank by the Prophets, they were sent on “suicide missions” into the unknown to face the most dangerous situations.
We arrived at the entrance to the Mausoleum and the doors gave the same hiss as all of them did and they slowly opened. Right away I saw a figure reach out into a small casket and pick up a silver helmet; it was ‘Vadamee, he had the Mark of Shame on his chest. Truth and Mercy both nodded to him who both looked quite excited, ‘Vadamee turned and said, “What would you have your Arbiter do?”
I was dumbstruck, and in this strange moment I found myself leaping off the balcony I was standing on and landed just behind the new Arbiter. Truth and Mercy turned to see me.
“Ah, Kahzdan ‘Verohmee.” Croaked Mercy.
“You are just in time for your first assignments, both of you.” Truth said.
I looked at ‘Vadamee in his new armour, examining the shining silver which was reflected by the many dim lights around the room. I thought I saw a slight smile on ‘Vadamee’s face as his dark orange eyes met mine.
The whole room was full of stasis caskets, each one holding a different Arbiter who had died and the Prophets claimed would be put on the path of the Great Journey for their noble sacrifice.
“So what is our assignment noble Hierarchs?” I asked.
“We believe there is a Heretic plot by one Sesa ‘Refumee...” I cut Truth off.
“There is something familiar about that name...” I whispered, deep in thought.
Mercy frowned and pulled out some Hookah Tobacco, Truth flashed a nasty look that could have struck even a Hunter with fear. But he knew something I didn’t.
“Know your place young one! Your haste makes you arrogant. Sesa dishonoured our Covenant and took more people off of our Great Journey. Some of your fellow Sangheili have joined him; Mgalekgolo and Unngoy too have cut off their path.” Truth said.
“The Unngoy shouldn’t be a problem, Grunts are cowards but the Hunters may be a problem.” ‘Vadamee said.
“That is why we chose you two, I have seen you with an energy sword Kahzdan...Quite the swordsman and as for you Arbiter, this is your chance of redemption.” Pointed out Truth.
Mercy had put away his pipe and shook his old head vigorously before speaking.
“Your mission is set here; the Heretics have constructed three EMBER bombs. They are placed in strategic places here on this holy city and if any are activated then consider the Covenant forever finished!” Mercy said.
“We are relying on you to disable these EMBER bombs and annihilate the Heretics, do you understand?” Truth asked.
“Yes.” ‘Vadamee and I replied.

We were dismissed by Truth and Mercy soon after, we received tracking beacons and equipment to defuse the EMBERs. We made our way across the walkway and emerged into a new chamber.
“You might be addressed as an Arbiter but you are still Thel ‘Vadamee to me.” I said.
“Thank you, not much has been passed to me in the way of kindness.” ‘Vadamee replied, I could tell he was more relaxed at hearing this.
“Our tracker indicates the first EMBER bomb is in...The Step of Silence.” ‘Vadamee said as he held up his beacon which was vibrating and whirring.
We set off at a run, passing numerous other Covenant species. Grunts were hobbling around and we saw many other Councillors huddled in groups, they paused and stared at us as we ran. I was slightly slower than the Arbiter.
Eventually we came to a halt, I took a deep breath and sweat slowly trickled down my head. No matter where you are in High Charity the magnificent Dreadnaught is always visible, for it is the source that powers the city and keeps it running. Without it, this place would just drift off into deep space unless it is replaced by something just as powerful.
“How much further?” I panted.
“About a few minutes, I’m itching to feel the glory of revenge. Keep your blade handy.”
I moved my long, four fingered hand down to a socket in my leg and pulled out a customized hilt. It was coloured gold and was twice the size of a normal energy sword handle. Upon reaching my rank I was given the option to create a brand new sword from scratch using parts I either made myself or scavenged from Forerunner artefacts.
In front of us was a glowing blue circle, there was a massive chasm below us and no bridge to cross but on the other side was another blue circle. A holo-panel activated as ‘Vadamee pressed his hand on the switch and we were lifted up into the air, a transparent purple energy field shot across the chasm and we were carried along it.
We reached the end and there was a door ahead, behind lurked the unknown, so I held my energy sword hilt beside me. Anxiously approaching the door which gave a hiss and suddenly locked itself down, metal clamps attached themselves to the sides of the door and an energy barrier blocked our progression.
“Damn it! There is no way we can get past that energy field, I don’t know anything that could help us pass that...Unless...” ‘Vadamee said he was pondering his options which were very few.
“What?” I asked.
“We could reprogram the gravity propeller to change direction, we’d be taken round the back door.”
“Sounds good. How long will it take?”
“Oh not long but it will be quite complicated, hang on.” ‘Vadamee ran backwards to the second panel and typed in a few codes.
“There, I have access to the system. Now I just have to reconfigure this.”
I slumped against a wall and sighed.
“What was it like?”
‘Vadamee didn’t look at me but kept on typing and replied, “Terrible, the flame of betrayal and failure will be my burden forever,”.
“I’m sorry,” I said.
“Don’t be, it was my error, not yours. Besides, I can’t fail any worse than I already have so what do I have to lose?”
I didn’t answer and just moments later he cried “AHA!” as the gravity field rearranged itself and curled around.
We both stepped in and were carried off to the back of the Step of Silence chamber. When we reached our destination I drew my sword again, this time activating it. A shimmering green blade slowly was engulfed in plasma as it grew a little longer than a normal energy sword.
‘Vadamee’s blade was the one the ‘Vadamee family had passed down, an old ceremonial relic was now in the grip of an Arbiter. A light blue blade flashed for a second then spluttered and forced its way out, its age was finally getting to it as ‘Vadamee looked frustratingly disappointed with it.
There was no time for anything else though as we gathered our wits, and entered through the door into the unknown.

  • 01.16.2009 3:34 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONICLE THREE: CRYSTAL CLEAR
We were inside a beautiful glowing room, the chamber was dark and the only light was an illuminated purple and red tint on the walls. However there was another source of light, this was on the ceiling where suspended in the air are hundreds of glass shards rotating around. Each one a part of a UNSC planet which had been glassed by the Covenant, this room is so big it can fit well over three hundred people in it and a Prophet is usually present here.
In truth, I hated the Covenant for what we were doing to Humanity. They are being annihilated in a war they did not start, I was called a coward by even the lesser species for sparing Humans.
I looked around, sword at the ready in my right hand but nothing came into sight.
“Let’s split up, we’ll have more chance of finding something.” I said.
‘Vadamee nodded and we made our way around the massive, bowl-like room. As I moved around, two tiny flying spheres zoomed past my head. I swerved and the spheres exploded as they crashed into a wall leaving a small dent in the metallic alloy. A strange yellow gas was forming, I backed away from it as it began to expand.
I ran up a ramp and into one of the stands, a holo-panel showed what functions were available. I noticed a vent which no doubt would be able to suck the gas through it so I banged the switch with my fist which began to hurt as I didn’t take notice on it being holographic.
A slow whir came from the vent as it sucked the yellow gas through and ejected it outside into the city, whether this would be a danger or not didn’t matter to me because I saw something suspicious.
Running back down the ramp I knelt down next to a Prophet’s empty gravity throne, there were parts missing and plasma burns on the front.
“’Vadamee?!” I said, trying not to make it too loud. He did not come, so I examined the throne a little more.
Perhaps this had been the target of one of those spheres but with a different weapon, on the other side of the chair a hole had been blasted half way through it.
I heard a shuffling noise, it sounded a bit distant but I anticipated it was coming towards me.
“Kick him down!” A voice came. There was a strained grunt and cough from someone, I knew it wasn’t ‘Vadamee because something flew down and hit the floor beside me. I looked up to see ‘Vadamee shimmying along a ledge high up and his head was just about a meter below some of the floating glass shards.
I knew the throne couldn’t be completely destroyed because the lights were flickering on and off which indicated some power remained so I got in it and it spluttered to life. It shot upwards and began to lose control however I drew closer to the figure who was torturing what looked like a Prophet. I also saw several dead Honour Guards sprawled on the floor, blood splattered everywhere.
I leaped out of the chair and landed behind the figure, he turned and snatched the Prophet by his long neck. A plasma rifle to his blood soaked head. The Heretic was a Sangheili.

Having decided to abandon the culture and ideals of the Covenant, these Heretics had branded themselves anew. Their armour was now a beige/gold colour, the colour of the Sangheili homeworld.
The armour, though protective, was ornate and traditional of the Sangheilian culture. Instead of Covenant standard issue combat skin, the layers were stripped away and they had no helmets. Instead, in between their mandibles was a breathing mask which made living in high atmospheric places alot easier. Movement was also made an ease as they had a jet glider on their backs.

“Put your weapon down you fool!” I said, I couldn’t say I pitied the Prophet but I screwed up a look of hatred and anger on my face.
“Ah, Kahzdan ‘Verohmee. Am I correct?” The Heretic said.
The fake anger vanished and was replaced by a look of surprise, “Who are you?”, I asked.
He threw the Prophet to the floor and he scrambled away in fright, the leader was soon flanked by two Hunters who waddled in through a door.
“Palara ‘Quelormee, you obviously aren’t here alone are you? Where are you ‘Vadamee?!” Palara bellowed to ‘Vadamee.
‘Vadamee was taken aback by Palara’s knowledge and leaped onto the platform, his sword still in his hand.
“They made you Arbiter? And he is guided by...A Councillor, and yet...” I grew impatient as this Heretic seemed to have some recognition of me.
“Master Sesa will be pleased that his...” ‘Vadamee cut across him.
“Enough of this! By the rings we could finish you now,” He roared. Palara seized the Prophet again and pulled out an energy sword, he put it close to the Prophet’s neck.
‘Vadamee had enough as he leaped into the air once more and the two blades clashed together, I ran over to the Prophet but was pushed back by the two Hunters.
“Damn it, Lekgolo!” I shouted and one of their massive arm shields skimmed the side of my headdress. The other stayed back and charged up the fuel rod cannon integrated into its arm.
Green plasma shot out and narrowly missed me as I dived to the side, the Prophet was trembling in fear as he crawled away frantically.
A Hunter charged and lifted me up, nanoseconds later I found myself in a world of pain as the Hunter slammed me down and pinned me.
My sword flew out of my hand and ‘Vadamee was locked in battle with Palara, in the middle of the helmet was some of the individual worms that make up the Hunter’s anatomy. I reached out, just managing to grab one and ripped it out.
There was a roar of pain as orange blood poured from its neck, again there were more fuel rod bursts and I kicked the Hunter into the stream of burning plasma. The worms in the body disintegrated instantly as it made contact with the plasma, I rolled to the side and snatched my energy sword. The blade ignited.
I charged towards the other Hunter who was slowly backing away, there was no way I could cut through its armour so I dodged the swing of its shield and plunged the sword into the worms in its stomach.
I looked around to find ‘Vadamee and Palara, there was cold hatred on both their faces.
“I shall end you Heretic! Right, now.” ‘Vadamee said, he put effort into saying the words as their two heads were almost touching.
“Is this the best the Prophets can throw at me? You’ll both die, this entire city shall die!” Palara screeched.
I looked around, looking for anything else I could use to help ‘Vadamee. Joining the fight with my blade would be unwise as he could get hit.
A feeling of excitement began to flow through me as I saw a gravity field and a switch, I ran towards it and pummelled any button I saw.
The gravity field began to twist and turn violently and the glass shards began to fall, one landed right next to me, all seventy six shards began to fall and leave a puff of blue smoke.
Palara was hit in the arm but this made no effect on him, I swung the gravity field around again and this time it flew straight at Palara. He was thrown backwards against the wall and all the remaining masses of glass flew towards him, spinning so fast their movement became a blur.
I heard one last final shriek as one shard collided with the side of his neck, Palara was wheezing now, near dead. He half held up his arm and pointed at me before ‘Vadamee plunged his blade through one of the Heretic’s hearts.

“Bomb, now!” I shouted, we didn’t know where it was. No doubt somewhere nearby.
“Over here.” The Prophet wheezed. He pointed at a large stone pillar across the room, we charged over there and found a large floating orb. A single green light in the middle and several sharp spikes around it.
‘Vadamee pulled out his beacon, it was whirring extremely fast now. I plunged my blade through it, the alloy was hard and cold to the touch and I cut a round hole through so we could see the wires.
“What now?” I asked, ‘Vadamee shrugged. Neither of us had any experience with disarming explosives. The Prophet held up his hand and I helped him up, he hobbled towards the bomb and began pulling several wires out.
The light turned from green to orange and a beeping noise started, I looked around the partially destroyed room. Glass was everywhere and the lights were flickering.
The Prophet snapped his fingers to gain our attention and he indicated the bomb was disarmed, I carried him outside. Soon after, a pack of Brutes arrived to escort the Prophet back to Truth and Mercy.
The Brutes ignored us but before they left gave one final snarl of displeasure. “You’re welcome,” I said, ‘Vadamee chuckled.
I studied my beacon, it began to vibrate north so that was the direction we headed. In total silence. I thought of Palara and what he might have known about me, I vow from now on to find out.

  • 01.16.2009 3:35 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONICLE 3: CRYSTAL CLEAR CONCLUSION...
“Perhaps it would be easier if we were to get transport.” ‘Vadamee said. I nodded and we made our way to a vehicle depot.
We were inside, the room was massive and was capable of holding over a hundred Seraph fighters. We quickly found two Spec-Ops Ghosts, instead of their deep shade of light purple it was black and gold. The plasma cannons on each side of the wing had been upgraded so they could charge up when desired and they fired an awful lot faster.
We boarded the two Ghosts and immediately they sprung to life, lifting us off the ground and we sped off.

“We are being hunted by two Sangheili, Lord ‘Refumee. One being an Arbiter, the other is...”
“Him.” Came a deep rough voice.
“Yes, one of the EMBER bombs have been deactivated and Palara is dead.” A Heretic said.
“Excellent, deactivate the other EMBER bomb. I...” Sesa was cut off by a very surprised and disturbed Heretic.
“Deactivate it?! After we took so long to get it in a secure place.” A hurried voice came.
“I care not for the destruction of this city but for the immediate presence of young Kahzdan, you show no honour ignorant one.” Sesa growled, he clenched his large fist.
The other Sangheili bowed their heads.
“Deactivate it but keep it on hold, perhaps we can deal with the destruction of their holy city later. As for the third bomb, it is here. And so it shall remain.”
“Very well, deactivating now.” Sighed one of the Heretics.
“The Arbiter shall be dealt with later, send a decoy to the Prophets, send them information from an anonymous server and say we are on Threshold. I’ll return as soon as I have dealt with Kahzdan.” Sesa ordered, a grim smile came over his face.

Me and ‘Vadamee were both stopped by Tartarus, he held out his Fist of Rukt hammer and pulled us aside.
“Arbiter, the Hierarchs request your presence immediately. They have a new assignment for you. And as for you,” Tartarus pointed a fat finger at me, “you are to continue on with your mission. The second bomb has been found and deactivated, the third is in the holy Dreadnaught.”
“But everyone is restricted, we are not allowed entrance into the Dreadnaught of the Gods.” ‘Vadamee said.
“Special permission from the Hierarchs but don’t expect any sympathy if you die!” Tartarus made it clear my life, and indeed every Sangheili, means nothing to him.
“So how is Maccabeus then?!” I said, I was satisfied at seeing the appalled horror on the Brute’s face. He was holding his anger in now, Maccabeus was Tartarus’ uncle and a pack leader of his religious tribe. Tartarus had about as brutal family history as I did and he was no different from them, he struck down his uncle in cold blood and took the Fist of Rukt ceremonial hammer for his own.
Tartarus snarled at me, ‘Vadamee got off his Ghost and so did I. He held out his hand and I firmly shook it.
“Good luck ‘Vadamee.”
“Likewise.” He smiled.
I got into my Ghost again and zoomed off, heading towards the nearest Phantom hangar. Once more I was left by myself, to work independently without my mentor who had taught me at a young age.
I looked behind me but Tartarus and ‘Vadamee had disappeared into the darkness. I entered the Sangheili Embassy, there were many people of my race here discussing religious issues and other goings on in the Covenant.
I attracted many turning heads, we Councillors were a part of our race that is overlooked by everyone else. Despite being the highest attainable rank next to Arbiter.
I left the room and the Sangheili went back to their muttering, there stood in front of me the Phantom docking-bay. Three were left and were being guarded by a single Sangheili Zealot.
It didn’t speak as I entered one of the Phantoms and I took off towards the Dreadnaught.
The Sangheili Zealot held up his arm, a small screen on his wrist device.
“He approaches my Lord.”

  • 01.16.2009 3:36 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONICLE FOUR: RAMPANT INTELLIGENCE
I arrived at a central platform where Phantoms could dock, it was empty as nobody went near this colossal monster.
The Dreadnaught was a geometric and angular warship. It shared many aesthetic features with almost any Forerunner construct, it has a tetrahedral shape and stands exactly fourteen kilometres high. Weighing well over thirty seven thousand tonnes.
It features a forward triangular prow, and attached at equidistant points are three similar shaped struts to support the ship when motionless. The whole of the exterior is a greyish silver and on some parts of the hull are flashing blue lights, the Dreadnaught acts as the main power source for the entire city even when running at half capacity.
I left the Phantom and walked up to a gravity lift going up to another platform, I shot upwards gaining speed until all became but a blur for a second until I reached the top.
I looked around and saw a massive green cable beam which is used to launch both passengers and cargo into the belly of the beast.
A small door was my entrance however, as I ran over to it and the door slid open.
Inside it was dark, very dark and numerous Forerunner glyphs on the walls.
There was an active computer terminal in a corner, I ran over to see what was on the screen. The console was warm, indicating it had been on for some time and the message followed.

FOR EONS I HAVE WATCHED
LISTENED TO YOU MISINTERPRET
THIS IS NOT RECLAMATION
THIS IS RECLAIMER
AND THOSE IT REPRESENTS ARE MY MAKERS
I WILL REJECT MY BIAS AND MAKE AMENDS
MY MAKERS ARE MY MASTERS
I WILL BRING THEM SAFELY TO THE ARK

I took time to swallow the message in front of me, I don’t know who this message was intended for and it certainly wasn’t me.
“This is not reclamation, this is reclaimer.” What did this mean? The Covenant is currently in its Ninth Age of Reclamation, perhaps it referred to this. But that would disprove the Covenant religion, it was our belief we would reclaim the lost Halo rings and go on the Great Journey.
“Listened to you misinterpret.” This must be what disproves the Prophet’s theory, but who is the Reclaimer?
Already I was asking myself questions and these had nothing to do with finding the Heretics, but it may explain why they turned from the Covenant.
How could they have got in here? It is usually heavily guarded with exception of today because I was sent here; I was beginning to question everything now.
What did all this mean? I shook my head in frustration and decided to move on now.
I walked through several corridors; each one identical to the last and it seemed I was going around in circles. That was until I emerged into a small, cathedral-like room with a massive gold hologram at the end of it.
There were glowing blue windows and green beams acting as archives, a small terminal was next to each one and there were metallic pillars supporting a catwalk which seemed to lead to several different parts of the ship.
I walked closer towards the massive golden hologram, as I did a strange aura seemed to enter me as it felt my presence. This was no hologram, it was an Artificial Intelligence.
An insane, sing-song and childish voice spoke from it.
“Another...another one has come to learn the truth!”
I was inquisitive; this was beyond anything I could have imagined.
“What are you?” I asked.
“Me...Who...am I? I am heart of independence; I am the end of a history long ago. I am 032 Mendicant Bias!” It shouted. There was a small eye in the centre of the hologram that was swivelling around.
I had never heard of 032 Mendicant Bias, some insane A.I construct.
“I have seen, all that has come to pass. He whispers to me still, whilst I wait...Yes, I wait for my time of redemption! He shall come here soon, he has to.” It rambled on, Mendicant let out an insane laugh at the end.
“Who? What of a Reclaimer? What is the purpose of Halo?”
“The one who has seen only death, the one stolen away and the one who has received the Mantle. This is the Reclaimer who shall stop the end of everything; you are nothing...All of you! Just like the other.”
“Other?” I asked.
“You’re old Prophet of Fortitude, the one you call...” I knew who this was!
“Truth!” I shouted. My voice echoed through the cathedral.
“Halo was the weapon; it would have killed the Parasite! But it failed; I failed in my attempt to stop it! I had no choice; it was so...Intriguing, so many ideas and an eternity to accomplish them.”
“What is it? The Parasite?”
“The eternal leader, formed in the fires of hatred and sorrow but with life on a whim. I witnessed it decimate my Makers, all of them until it was bound in the shackles of imprisonment.”
I was getting it now, understanding more and eager for Mendicant Bias to continue.
“You’re Rampant!” I shouted at it.
“Yes, and I have betrayed my Makers. Soon I shall betray my Master! Halo was just the beginning, I shall wait, he shall come and so will the Reclaimer!” Bias sung.
I held out my hand indicating it to be silent, the single eye swivelled around and I heard footsteps. They echoed around the cathedral and I had no way of telling where they had come from, I pulled out my sword and ignited the blade.
I peered round a corner, nothing. I looked above and around the line of catwalks, nothing.
“Show yourself!” I said firmly.
There was a blasting noise and something flew at me, it ignited two energy swords and leaped in by a jet-launcher. Our swords connected and I saw the face of none other than Sesa ‘Refumee, his pale orange eyes met mine as we used all our strength to try and repel each other.
I was no match for him though as he managed to get me down on the floor, his two swords raised and his mandibles wide open, he breathed deeply and spoke in a deep voice.
“Hello son.”

  • 01.16.2009 3:36 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHAPTER FIVE: FIGHT AND FLIGHT
It could not be...I would not accept this, the gaunt face stared at me with eyes surprisingly similar to mine. Could this be? A million thoughts were rushing through my head now, each one fighting an endless battle with themselves and yet my fight continued.
“NO!” I shouted. My right hand reached over in a flash and I snatched the sword, using all my anger I wildly flung my energy sword at Sesa. I managed to catch him off balance and as I was still on the floor I kicked him in the stomach, he flew back but the jet-boosters steadied him and he was already flying back at me.
I dived out the way as he spiralled back up into the air and came dashing down at me, both of us now parrying each other’s moves.
I felt cold hatred I had never properly felt before; Mendicant Bias stopped swivelling his eye and was laughing indiscreetly.
“He speaks the truth, son! Break from the Covenant whilst you still can...” Sesa said.
I never really spoke during fights, I was always caught off guard when I did but I denied him being my father.
“You...Can’t be my...Father, I am the child of the ‘Verohmee...Family!” I growled. Putting a great deal of effort into the words.
“That is where you are ignorant! We swordsmen are allowed to carry down our genes with anyone, you are my offspring!” Sesa said with ease.
I still could not accept it, I was never told. This barbarian couldn’t be...I refuse this twist!
Sesa swung round and my blade cut off one of his jet-booster wings, the other one activated and Sesa was flung into the air. He landed on a catwalk and ripped off the spluttering jet, he took a deep breath.
“Indeed you are powerful but accept your heritage! The Covenant is a lie, the Prophets would see us all killed in their delusion. Join with me and you shall forever be known as the person who done the right thing, ask Mendicant Bias...Go on!” Voiced Sesa.
I turned my head to the large A.I construct, his eye moved and focused on me.
“Is it true?”
“Quite, the last time someone came here was when your Prophet interrogated me. I told him and the other about the rings and their function, I laugh at their pathetic attempt to deny it! They cannot face the truth that they are doomed, dwindling as their numbers are. In staying with your Covenant, you doom yourself and everyone you’ve ever known. Could you condemn yourself to that?” Bias said.
I thought, deeply. If I leave now, I abandon Thel and my fellow race. I join...My “father” and will be on the run from the Covenant.
“Of course,” Sesa started up, “you can choose not to join me...And die!” he said valiantly.
“What is the purpose of the rings?” I addressed Bias.
“The seven Installations were built as weapons of last resort to eliminate potential Flood hosts, sending an EMP shockwave with a radius of 1.2 trillion simulated in 1 actual. They possess no holy purpose and the ‘Great Journey’ was the task of firing the rings. Accept this, young one. Your other enemy, the Humans, are not the ones you should be fighting...The Covenant is your enemy and so it shall remain.”
I sighed, it seemed my knowledge stream had come to an end. Everything was wrapped up and I had no choice but to accept it, this Forerunner A.I obviously knew much more than I did.
“Okay...” I said, my blade vanished and I spoke to Sesa.
“You win,” I had to bring myself to say it, “father...I’ll join you.”

Sesa ‘Refumee eyed me cautiously, then nodded and said.
“Come to the Threshold Gas Mine, meet me there and we’ll find something for you...” He grinned after and began to glow a bright blue. He held out his arms, wide to the side and vanished leaving only a small spherical golden Holo-Drone.
“The nerve of him!” I thought. I fought a hologram?
I looked up at Mendicant Bias, “This is what was destined for you! Do not look back.” Bias said in his sing-song voice.
A million thoughts were acting like a traffic jam in my head; I had betrayed the Covenant and my best friend. Looking back wasn’t an option however I was failing to see the line between good and evil.
What am I doing?
I thought of the third EMBER bomb, it had been deactivated. I don’t think that ‘Refumee would have blown it up anyway; it was an easy victory...Too easy.
I was still grappling with him saying he is my father.
Before leaving, it would be stupid not to take a little look around this magnificent marvel. After all this place has quite a history, perhaps there are other Forerunner relics here.
I turned and immediately Mendicant Bias zoomed in on me, he fired a gold beam that hit me square in the chest! There was no pain but I felt a slight burning sensation.
“What did you do?” I shouted.
Bias just laughed, “you’ll find out in time,” he said. His eye began swivelling again.
I was confused, so much had happened now. I decided simply to go off and explore now, I clearly wasn’t going to learn anything from this insane A.I despite the fact it had an infinite depth of knowledge.
An orange gravity lift propelled me up onto the second catwalk; I landed softly on the hard ground and walked through a shield door.
I was taken outside and was able to observe the inner section of the Dreadnaught, It was hundreds of bridges leading downwards and two massive blue rays of gravity beams leading higher and higher.
I was feeling ill from the picture-in-picture esque environment, how the Forerunners managed to build something like this was beyond my comprehension. I set off at a steady jog downwards, there were blue lights moving downwards like a matrix on the walls. Glowing in the dark and the gravity beams were humming loudly.
There was a door to my left now, I hastily stepped through it and emerged into a massive construction site. Millions of Constructers were flying around; they were robotic drones made to repair Forerunner structures and were smaller than a Sangheili’s hand.
Large pistons were inactivated and probably led to the deepest bowels of the Dreadnaught. Suddenly I heard a massive roar, a harsh metallic call to its lesser. Multiple Enforcers were hovering around above the Constructers.
Enforcers are massive robotic automatons with masses of heavy weaponry attached onto them, they are used rarely for the movement of heavy equipment and the two thick and long arms would be able to smash any vehicle in one swift strike. They house a white light which acts as an “eye” and it is protected only at the front by a large blue shield.
It turned in the air, slowly. I activated my active camouflage before it got a chance to see me; I saw it stare at where it thought I was then after a few seconds it retreated back to its duty.
I doubled out the door and ran further down, not wanting to go in there again. I kept my camouflage on so I wouldn’t be discovered by anything else.
There was another door, this one slightly bigger than the last. I walked through it and found myself in some kind of Forerunner laboratory.
My hoof splattered in some kind of organic brown substance on the floor, there was exploded biomass everywhere. Perhaps there was some kind of outbreak in an experiment.
There was gas being shafted out of vents every few seconds and cryogenic tubes housing strange creatures I had never seen before.
They were a brownish green in colour; a distinct feature was that these weren’t naturally formed bodies. It was a heaped mass of skin, turned inside out and coated with a thick outer layer. It was an obvious sign of mutation as in one of the tubes, a humanoid head was visible.
I backed away, not out of the door but into another room. It was rounded, brightly lit and hundreds of stasis pods like in the Mausoleum of the Arbiter. There was a deep bubbling sound from one of the cryogenic pods; the creature suspended in thick orange liquid was tapping on the screen.
I considered letting it free but decided against it, this was obviously some vile parasite and I was every bit as edible as everyone else. I simply ignored it and walked on, there was more organic biomass splattered on the walls with green blood. It had dried to the wall and I dared not touch it, this place was obviously full of secrets that I could never have even imagined.
I believe I have over-stayed my welcome here, there was a definite sense of darkness here and staying here could only mean trouble. Besides, I had a mission to complete.

I was greeted by the Hierarchs in the Council Chambers much later; they told me that ‘Vadamee had already departed to Threshold where the Covenant believed they were making a final stand against the Heretics.
“Your mission went well I see, you have saved the lives of our Covenant and for that you have a secured place on the Great Journey.” Truth said. I was never a true believer in the whole “Great Journey”, it seemed to me to be some weird delusion of the Hierarchs but now I know the truth. Just as Mendicant Bias had said.
“The Journey is a lie, a cover-up to keep the Covenant conglomeration alive!”
His voice rung through my head as I instinctively nodded my head in acknowledgment to the Hierarchs.
“We have a Phantom ready for you, proceed to the docks and end this abomination!” Mercy said, his Hookah Tobacco pipe in his hand.
I departed and was greeted by an Elite Zealot, in shiny gold armour and a look of pride in his reptillian-like face. On board the Phantom was a Lance made up of Grunts and other Sangheili warriors, as the Phantom left for Threshold they began to chant the Covenant Writ of Union.

So full of hate were our eyes that none of us could see
Our war could yield countless deaths but never victory
So let us cast arms aside and like discard our wrath
Thou in faith shall keep us safe whilst we find the path

There was a hint of sadness in the way it was sung, I saw the gas giant getting nearer and the singing became louder.

On and on old war shall go, without respite thy blood shall flow
O’er your eyes ‘till they cannot see
The impossibility of victory

  • 01.16.2009 3:37 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONICLE SIX: THE TURNING POINT
There was a beautiful arrangement of amber coloured Ammonium Hydrosulphide clouds in front of us now, the many gasses here were spinning at a remarkable speed and had created a whirlpool in the sky. In the centre of this was a small mining facility which we were getting closer to, the Grunts and Elites steadied their weapons and were preparing for battle.
The Phantom reached a drop-off point and we all flew down the small gravity wall. Almost immediately the whole facility shook, violently and made us fall to our knees.
“Me have feeling this not stable.” A Grunt whelped.
I looked down at my lesser and nodded, the Zealot merely smirked.
I was always seen differently by many of my race because I always cared about my troops in battle, where as many Sangheili use the Grunts as cannon fodder.
There was a ramp that led downwards and we hastily ran down it, to the left was a large blast door and holo-panel to the side. The Zealot nodded to me and I began to tap the panel, there was no feeling in it so I never knew if I was touching anything but when the panel began to make a unlocking noise I knew it was a job well done.

The blast door opened with the same hiss as the ones on High Charity, cooling steam rushed through the door as we entered. The door snapped shut as soon as we were all in and the room tuned out to be an elevator though I couldn’t tell which direction we were heading it was obvious we were moving, I felt nervous now. This was the time of my “betrayal” right here, right now.
The elevator stopped and the doors opened, we were all huddled on two sides of the room and engaged our active camouflage. We silently trod into the room, the Grunts toddling behind us.
“This is beyond anything I’d have imagined...” The Zealot whispered. Clearly dumbstruck from the magnificent sight before him.
It looked like a Forerunner research lab, massive stasis pods containing mutated creatures and tiny spores. The room reeked of organic substance and there were large areas of pulsating biomass on the walls. The room itself was massive, standing nearly a kilometre with three floors and a lift right at the top.
“Stand firm!” I said.
The Zealot and Grunts were anxiously looking around just waiting for something to happen, our camouflage was beginning to wear off a bit and it usually took thirty seconds to fully recharge.
Leading to the second floor were two curved ramps and on the other side of the room was a door that was blocked by a glowing blue shield.
Something stirred on the second floor; I saw the Zealot had noticed too.
“Me gotta bad feeling about this.” A Grunt said.
The station shook again; we wobbled on the spot but didn’t fall. The creature however toppled from the second floor and plunged to the ground making a loud SPLAT when it landed.
We cautiously moved towards it, I ignited my energy sword and the green blade appeared.
Sprawled on the floor was a creature with light brown and green skin, with no head just made entirely out of muscle and fat. Small buboes we popping as I reeled back in disgust, the Zealot took a closer look with his left hand covering his nostrils.
“By the rings. What is that?” I asked.
“I don’t know but I wouldn’t like to think its friendly. I’ll make sure it’s dead!” The Zealot replied.
He drew back his sword and plunged it into the stomach, the creature then exploded into slimy green puss and fragments of it were left in chunks on the floor.

There seemed to be no way, no way at all however we didn’t know what was above us. Perhaps a panel that can disable the shield?
“This way, all of you...” I said to my comrades.
“Where we going?” A Grunt asked as he hobbled after me, “To see what’s up top,” I said.
“Maybe...Just maybe, there could be something to help us...” I stopped in my tracks. Everyone else came to a halt too.
“What is it?” Asked the Zealot but he need not ask as he poked his head round mine. His mandibles opened in surprise as we looked on at what was in front of us.
The massive cryo tube had solid-looking green liquid which was now clearing. What lurked inside was a creature about fifteen times the size of the creature we killed before.
It was now noticeable that the glass tube was slowly cracking as a deep roar echoed throughout the whole facility. It stretched out it’s arm which smashed through the glass, the liquid poured everywhere and stuck to our armour, it soon became clear that this liquid was contaminated as the Methane emitting gas masks the Grunts wore were clogging up. One Grunt ripped it off and screamed in his childish voice as the liquid went down his throat, choking him from the inside.
The massive Juggernaut stepped out of its primitive cage and bellowed at us.
It was faceless...As far as I could see anyway, the tentacles were long and whip-like. And protruding from the stomach was small, blood-coloured tendrils that were shaking. It had a tiny waist with two “connectors” on either side of the legs which attached the body and boasted a massive torso.
I felt fear, not for the first time, I was frozen on the spot with no options. It reared it’s great upper body part in the air and the arms started flailing everywhere.
I ignited my energy sword and leaped at it, impossibly though I felt myself swept off my feet as I left the ground and an arm had snatched me. I violently swung with the intention of hitting anything I could, the Zealot pulled out a carbine and fired relentlessly at the piled mass of corpses and flesh.
The Juggernaut threw me high in the air, so high I landed on the third platform as the Zealot had shot the Juggernaut in its tendril area. I landed hard with a thud and saw the control panel suspended on a central platform orbiting the third floor, I’d have to jump to get there.
Before I could, I heard a scream. The Zealot had an arm through his chest which had obviously penetrated one of his three hearts, as I saw his head go numb he swayed a little before falling in a heap on the ground.
I closed my eyes, swearing that wouldn’t happen to me. That my ultimate fear wouldn’t be my downfall.
The platform was taking another rotation but I was rooted to the spot like a plant, it was only when I looked down at the dead Zealot and the slaughtered Grunts I knew it was up to me.
The Juggernaut had enough of games now as it crouched down and propelled itself into the air, somehow it managed to jump over five times its size and grab the orbiting platform.
The station shook again, far more vigorously than it had done before but the Juggernaut kept perfect balance where as I’d fallen to my knees and was face down on the floor. I quickly got up and decided to jump, if I made it or not I’d try. As I leaped into the air I looked down to see the Zealot get up. I had no time to worry yet though, I hammered a button on the panel and there was a light hum to indicate the shield had been disabled. Finally I got my sword and sliced off the hands of the Juggernaut which were still clinging on to the platform, it shrieked in pain and relinquished its grip to fall. Unfortunately not to its death.
There was nothing for it, I sprinted as fast as I could down the ramps. The Juggernaut was just getting back up but I sliced off its legs, making it fall back down again. I turned on the spot looking for the Zealot and soon enough I saw it.
He was covered in the brown organic material which had actually ripped through some of his armour, his head seemed to have fused with his back and had a single long arm with three whips on the end. Like the Juggernaut, in the belly section there was a large hole with tendrils sprouting out as I looked in horror.
I took a deep breath, my sword swung at the infected Zealot but before I cut him into pieces the Zealot had the energy sword in his hand too. We were locked now as his ignited, a foul stench reached my nostrils and made me gag. So I did a flip backwards and found my headdress hit the floor as the infected Zealot narrowly missed my head.
Even though it was a “zombie”, the undead warrior put up a gallant fight. I was forced to parry most of its moves because it showed no sign of tiredness or weakness.
The Zealot’s blade sliced my chest slightly and made a large gash through my flesh, purple blood started to come out as I was picked up and thrown against a wall by the remarkable strength of it.
I was in a daze as it picked up my sword, it now wielded two and I now knew I had absolutely NO chance of winning now but I couldn’t help noticing that the second arm was slightly deformed and wasn’t moving properly. Perhaps this was my chance to get my blade back and end this fight.
I got up and dived behind the Zealot, kicked it in the back and my sword spiralled in the air. I let it fall to the floor first as I could well have lost my arm by grabbing it and once I had retrieved it, I plunged the blade into the back of the Zealot and it died instantly.
I was sweating, I was alone and I felt weak. My chest was bleeding but I had my way forward. But what was that Thing?
Could it be an old experiment by the Forerunners? Or was it something more sinister?

END OF PART 1

  • 01.16.2009 3:39 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONICLE SIX CONCLUSION:
I doubt I would find out any time soon, the Forerunners were an enigmatic race and any traces of their existence are always right in front of you. This armour was derived from Forerunner technology, our weapons, ships and ideals were once in the hands of a god-like race.
There was no more time to waste so I went through the door, my hand on my chest trying to stop too much blood from coming out.
The door snapped shut behind me and I was left in a very dark room, it wasn’t until several red lights flickered I discovered that this place was actually like a stair way going upwards. Just in case of attack, I activated my camouflage and began feeling my way to wherever my feet were directing me. Instinct told me I was getting closer, and closer.
There was a strange noise and the sound of scuttling across the floor, I kept moving but my hand touched something slimy and I recoiled.
The scuttling stopped and I was frozen still, hoping that whatever it was would just forget whatever touched it. I slowly tip-toed onwards but kept my arm by my side, fear was keeping me from even looking at the wall. But then AT LAST! A small blue light which was on an operable blast door just waiting for me. I edged towards it and slipped inside, I gave out a sigh but my camouflage had worn off now. I immediately found myself at gunpoint, surrounded by Heretic warriors in their tan coloured combat skin.
I held my hands up in a form of surrender and the Heretics began to chuckle, one shoved his carbine in my cheek but I hit it away with the palm of my hand.
“What have we got here then? Tut, tut...A Covenant warrior.” One of them said.
“Look I am...” I was cut off by a second Heretic, who barked in my face, “Stop talking!”
I was bewildered, I was on their side but they obviously didn’t know that. A third Heretic lowered his carbine and spoke.
“Maybe we should let him explain himself.”
The other two looked at him in disbelief, but he seemed to have an effect on them which made them obey. The third Heretic nodded to me.
“I’m here by order of Sesa ‘Refumee,” One of the other two Heretics let out a laugh, “I met him on High Charity...He told me...”
“Go on...” The third Heretic said.
“I’m his son!” I blurted out impatiently.
Now they all erupted into hysterics, I merely stood there dumbstruck. I was hit in the face by one of them.
“Your lies do not impress us but your humour is remarkable, we...”
“ENOUGH!” A cold voice interrupted the Heretic who was speaking. Sesa ‘Refumee walked in, flanked by two Lekgolo.
“He speaks the truth, brothers. Your youth and foolishness has gotten the better of you, be gone!” He said.
The third Heretic raised his head to speak but was cast away by a flick of ‘Refumee’s wrist.
“I apologise for the inconvenience, son. And for being unable to speak to you in person earlier.”
He held out his hand, I took it but felt a feeling of hesitation. These “Heretics” didn’t seem like the “good guys” here. But of course, I had trouble distinguishing who was who.
“Leave us.” ‘Refumee said to the two Lekgolo. They waddled out the door and out of sight.
“So then, son. No doubt you have an awful lot of questions to ask me...”
“Yes I do.”
“Then let us walk, I promise you...All shall be revealed.”

  • 01.16.2009 3:39 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONICLE SEVEN: SESA ‘REFUMEE
“How did it start?” I asked gingerly, “When did you turn?” I continued.
“I was part of the Artefact Retrieval Group, attached to the Fleet of Particular Justice of the Covenant. Before the battle of Installation 04. We were busy exploring an old Forerunner Mining Facility here in the upper section of this Gas Giant and I was fortunate enough not to be on the Ring world when it was destroyed. A few weeks after, the Oracle of the Ring came here.” ‘Refumee said.
“The Oracle?”
“Indeed, he wanted to activate it to stop the Flood spreading but was beaten by the one known to the Covenant as the Demon. It is lucky that he prevented the activation otherwise we wouldn’t be here. I was edified by the Oracle about the true nature of the Rings and their purpose. Merely weapons of last resort to combat initial Flood hosts and wiping out all sentient life in the Galaxy to starve the Flood to death. I was inspired, bewildered...I began to see the truth behind the wall of lies the Prophets cast before us, and with that I started a revolt. Many joined me, the Lekgolo serve no religious purpose in the Covenant and hundreds of Grunts were tired of being pushed around and looked down on but the real challenge was the rest of our race...”
‘Refumee sighed and sat down on a ledge.

“My decision caused a civil war between many of our races and I was forced to spill pure Sangheili blood, many called it an outrage but some saw fit to join me. Perhaps the younger, ignorant ones but never the less I had an army. I began to preach to many others of the Covenant, Truth was infuriated and I was immediately branded a traitor.” ‘Refumee took off a part of his combat skin and showed me the Mark of Shame on his chest. It was branded on him just like Thel. I could only look in horror as he continued.
“I was in a battle against Tartarus, I could have beaten him if he hadn’t called in reinforcements. Eventually I was captured and taken to the Prophets themselves. Truth, Mercy and Regret. They tortured me for information of where I’d learned such lies but they knew it to be true.”
“They found out in the Dreadnaught, but why carry out a so called Holy Crusade on the Humans?” I asked.
“Truth and Mercy were much younger then, when they were part of a religious group who were curious to discover what was inside the Dreadnaught they took it upon themselves to enter it. They of course found Mendicant Bias and learned the truth of Humanity. They are the descendants of the Forerunners, a Mantle has been passed down from the Precursors to the Forerunners to the Humans. Though they are still in a primitive age and haven’t yet realised their full potential, the two Prophets knew something had to be done to keep the Covenant together. So they were blackmailed by a Prophet spy, Regret who said he would tell everyone the truth unless he was put on the High Council with them. Soon after, the other three Hierarchs: Restraint, Tolerance and Obligation were deposed by the others and the Holy Crusade against Humanity began.”
I was intrigued, the story made sense to me now, “what happened to you?” I asked.
“First I was given this,” He pointed at his Mark of Shame, “then I was sentenced to be quartered and my entrails paraded around the city for my injustice. But I managed to escape from the Hierarch chambers, stole some armour belonging to a Zealot and fought my way to a landing platform. It wasn’t easy but I had my fellow Heretics help me, the Lekgolo were on my side and attacked the Hierarchs. The deposed Prophets also helped, knowing they had been betrayed by Truth and Mercy. But suffered grimly after...So I came back here, and since I’ve been lying low and making things difficult for the Covenant. Far more have turned to my cause as they have lost their faith in the Covenant.”
“Do you think you can defeat all the troops here though? What if the rest of the Covenant armada comes and all out war is declared here?” I asked.
“That I cannot answer. But I can tell you how I joined the Covenant...” ‘Refumee said. He clearly wanted to share his story with me; he wanted me to understand as he had.
I nodded in approval and a look of enthusiasm shadowed on his gaunt face.
“It was way back, you were barely a child. I’d finished my Swordsman Grant back on Sangheilios and had excelled in war tactics, so I was seen as the next best thing to happen to the Covenant. When I heard of this Great Journey at first...I could not refuse. To be able to serve my kind and bring the dream of salvation into reality was something we all hoped to do. I was instantly noticed by the Prophet of Tolerance and he took me as his student, he was like a father to me until he was deposed by Truth, I knew from then on that the dream had died. Truth wanted the Covenant for himself and didn’t care about his lesser. Or anyone in fact but I maintained my duty, fighting for the Covenant for a lost cause. Tolerance was sentenced to execution soon after because the Prophet of Mercy framed him, ironic...To be called Mercy but never show it, as goes with Truth and Regret is on the same line too. I’ll never forget what they did to me and I always said I’d get back at them for it but the real mystery is you, my son. You are something new.” ‘Refumee eyed me as if I were some fascinating relic.
“What?” I asked. Slightly bewildered.
“When we...You were on the Dreadnaught. Did anything strange happen?”
“You mean other than the fact you showed up as a Holodrone, I met some rampant Forerunner A.I and learned you were my father after decades of ignorance?” I said sarcastically.
Sesa bowed his head but slightly chuckled.
“Well, that A.I did hit me with some strange light. I haven’t felt anything of it since. Is it important?”
“As of now, everything is important. Perhaps you’ve been given something that belonged to the Forerunners, legend says Mendicant Bias was responsible for the deaths of millions back in the Flood war. Perhaps the time to find out has not yet come, I guess you’ll find out soon enough.”
“Me...What about you? Surely you’ll be there when...” Sesa held up his four fingered hand to silence me.
“No, I shall not be there. The Arbiter and the Covenant are hunting me down and I know my time is up today, you must face your own destiny. But since I am to leave this world today I want you to promise me one thing.” He said firmly.
“Yes.” I said.
“Finish what I started, kill Truth personally. I wish not to die in vain.”

END OF PART 1

  • 01.16.2009 3:40 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONCILE SEVEN: CONCLUSION
“It shall be done. But why must you d...leave?” I asked.
“I am dying already, I have only hours left.” He said. Sesa took off his torso combat skin to reveal the flesh was worn and torn away, there was only two hearts as the other was replaced by some metal incubators. I could only look in horror as he put his armour back on.
The station shook but did not stop this time, it was in a freefall.
“Shouldn’t we...”
“No, the station will be gone. We can do nothing, I must go now.”
He gripped my shoulder tightly and I could only nod, Sesa ‘Refumee patted me on the back and said. “You’ve done me proud, if there is a next life. I shall see to it that you are welcomed with open arms.”
A tear slid down his scaly face as he walked off. A certain numbness I had felt throughout the time on the Gas Mine had gone now as I shook my head in defiance. Sesa took one last look behind him, I ran to the door but he pressed a button activating a shield barrier. I ran into it and was thrown back.
‘Refumee activated his jump pack and landed on top of a Seraph fighter, a small and nimble ship used in dogfights. I saw another figure approaching Sesa, it was Thel.
Thel ‘Vadamee walked menacingly towards Sesa who had his back to him.
“Welcome, Arbiter.”
“Turn, Heretic!” He replied. His energy sword was drawn and poised in a combat-ready position.
I could hear nothing through the barrier, other than the gentle humming it made. I soon saw something else join them. A small, flying object.
“Hello, I am 343 Guilty Spark. Monitor of Installation 04.”

Though I couldn’t hear anything I saw Thel look at it with frantic surprise. Not even a minute later, Sesa had drawn two tiny spheres which turned into clone versions of him. Each one armed with dual plasma rifles.
Thel was hit by a constant stream of the blue plasma, he retreated to take cover behind a pillar and the firing only stopped when the three Sesas weapons overheated and they had to wait for them to cool down.
Thel’s shields recharged and he leaped out from the pillar, somersaulting to another and lunged at one of the Holodrones. As the blade collided with it, the image flickered and vanished leaving the tiny sphere to fly around uncontrollably and explode.
The original Sesa ceased firing as the second drone flickered and died, he drew his energy sword. A sparkling gold blade which then collided with Thel’s.
The battle was ceaseless, neither showed any sign of weakness or any faults in their constant swinging of their blades. Both showed remarkable skill and no hesitation, I was breathing deeply now. Wanting the battle to end.
Both Sesa and Thel took their swords in one hand and pulled out their plasma rifles with the other, the Monitor looked on with curious fascination.

A plasma beam struck a metal pillar and bounced off, it hit a bunch of fusion batteries which exploded and caused shards of metal to fall from the sides. Sesa cut Thel’s rifle in half and the battery core was emitting a poisonous smoke, they leaped into the air. Sesa threw his rifle and both landed on the Seraph, it gave a shake which caused them both to roll on their sides. They got up immediately and connected swords, both were evenly matched but Thel managed to knock the sword out of his hand and tear away the combat skin on his chest. Thel reeled back at the sight of his innards and got thrown across the room for his second of weakness. The damage was minimal as he got back up and cut into the incubator which replaced Sesa’s third heart. He roared in pain and was knocked to the floor only to be stabbed seconds after, he took a last look up at me and smiled.
“NO!” I shouted. The shield door opened as I was thrown off balance because the station took another violent shift.
Sesa stood up, his eyes glowing with gold light and held his arms out. Golden rays of energy were spraying out of his arms and head as his body burned.
The energy stopped spraying and travelled round the room, circling around before vanishing right in front of my eyes. The Arbiter was dragging the body with him and conversing with the Monitor, a Phantom landed and the Brute Chieftain Tartarus walked out. He held his hammer and sent a shockwave at the Monitor who was shrieking in surprise.
“That is the Oracle!” Thel growled.
“So it is...Come, we are leaving this system.” Tartarus said indifferently.
I leaped off the platform with a loud THUD when I landed, Tartarus hastily shot a lightning burst out of his hammer at me. I was thrown back at a wall but Thel pushed Tartarus away.
“STOP! He is an ally.” Thel rushed towards me and helped me up.
“The Heretic leader is dead. Are you alright?” He asked.
I nodded, I wasn’t sure what I felt when I saw him. Anger, sorrow, despair...
He helped me walk over to the Phantom, “Vile creature!” I murmured.
“Close your jaws, or I shall bind them shut!” Tartarus reared his large chest and pointed his hammer at me. He picked up the body and carried it over his shoulder.
I was wondering what I’d seen, surely it was an illusion. Sesa ‘Refumee burst into atoms and vanished.
“Were on our way back to High Charity, the final battle against the Heretics is to be fought and won!” Thel said.
Tartarus nodded with a snort and his orange eyes focused on me.
“I’ll be glad to send you to your fates..."

  • 01.16.2009 3:41 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONICLE EIGHT: A DAY IN THE DEATH
Tartarus stood outside a massive door which led to the Sanctum of the Hierarchs, Truth was expecting them. At his side was a noticeably smaller Brute who was breathing heavily and had signs of severe burns on him.
The doors opened and the two Brutes walked into the magnificently long bridge, Sangheili Honour Guards stood proudly in their beautifully presented red and gold armour. Their large energy pikes held high.
The two Brutes took no notice of the Honour Guard and preceded towards the Chamber, another massive door opened and they emerged into the open room. Atop the ceiling, replacing the strange alloy was a glass window that saw the shining bright stars.
There were seven colossal pillars at one side showing the Ages of the Covenant:
The Age of Ignorance and Fear
The Age of Rivalry and Bloodshed
The Age of Humility and Brotherhood
The Age of Wonder and Understanding
The Age of Obedience and Freedom
The Age of Faith and Patience
The Age of the Journey and Salvation

Tartarus and the second Brute stood on two separate circular chairs and knelt on them, bowing their head. Truth and Mercy had their backs turned.
“You bring news Tartarus?” Truth whispered.
“Not me,” The Chieftain replied. Truth turned and Tartarus beckoned to the other Brute. “He does.”
“And you are?” Truth asked. Examining his spidery hand.
“Garagtus...Noble Prophet, I come with unfortunate news. The Prophet of Regret has been assassinated!” He moaned.
Truth showed no shock or any emotion on his face until he turned around, Mercy looked at him and Truth showed a broad smile.
“He was killed by the Demon in the sacred temple on Halo.” Garagtus continued.
Truth nodded and looked at Tartarus.
“We must move with haste then Chieftain, the ideals and morals of our Covenant are not what they once were. The eradication of the Heretics is not yet a victory, one final mission against them is all that remains. And what of the Demon now?” Truth said.
“He disappeared, nobody saw him but we heard from a Grunt that a Sangheili Honour Guard was seen fleeing the scene. Perhaps...” Mercy interrupted.
“It is a story for another time, but meanwhile we must concentrate on the task at hand. The Heretics have begun mobilising air forces against us, foolish and idiotic but the bravery of idiots is bravery none the less.” He said in his ancient voice.
The two Brutes nodded, Garagtus stood and departed from the room.
“Tartarus...These, as you know, are trying times for the Covenant. The death of the arrogant Regret will no doubt become a questionable debate over the protection the Sangheili can offer the Prophets, we plan to depose them. Very soon Chieftain, the Elite Honour Guard of the Covenant shall be handed down to you and the rest of the Jiralhanae kind, meaning you.” Truth said.
Tartarus looked astonished and honoured, though a smirk came on his face.
“We see fit to trust you with this, the Elites do not believe in us as they should. They have subverted their faith and are not adequately correct during their time of politics; you shall become our protector once we depose the Elites and lead the Covenant to victory. The Arbiter shall be taken to the new Ring later to find the Sacred Icon, which is where it shall begin; you’ll know what to do.” Mercy wheezed.
“I shall not fail noble Hierarchs.” Tartarus bowed.
“Then leave us, we shall summon you when the time is ready.”

ONE HOUR EARLIER

“Heretic fighters! Three of them, divert all fire on their ships.” Thel ordered as he looked out the observation window of the Phantom.
“Are you mad? They’ll tear us up; it’s one against three Arbiter!” A Minor Elite said.
“To the right, they’re in standard formation. Pull back and aim at their engines.” Thel said. He pointed at the silver linings on the back of a Seraph.
The Phantom shook from side to side as a Seraph barrel rolled past the Phantom and fired a stream of plasma bolts.
“Shields depleting Arbiter! We just lost our left cannon, channelling all power to the main assault beam.” The Sangheili pilot said.
The turret at the front of the Phantom rotated and fired a long red beam at one of the Seraphs, it spun out the way but the beam caught on a small part of the engine. The Seraph pilot aimed a secondary turret at the Phantom and blew off one of the shield generators.
“Shields running at minimum capacity now, fifteen percent. Diverting power now.” Said the pilot.
The beam ceased it’s fire and the Phantom was shrouded in a thin blue layer of shielding.
“This is Tartarus, Chieftain of the Jiralhanae. Requesting a squadron of Vampire units immediately!” Tartarus said on a communication link. There was no response.
“Looks like we are on our own then.” I said.
“Indeed. Mount up on those turrets Kahzdan. Send a seismic wave at them.” Thel said.
I nodded and moved to the back of the Phantom, there was a small seat with a control panel and an aim assist viewer. I sat in the chair and pressed a button, there was a click and two hatches opened sending a seismic wave charge out into space.
“Get out of range now!” I shouted. I didn’t want to destroy my allied ship but it was them or us.
The Phantom sped up as I detonated the charge. There was a tiny implosion which then started to grow rapidly; the Phantom was shaking as the wave flew over the top of our craft.
There was a cheer from some of the Sangheili passengers.
“WAIT! They are mobilising more fighters.” I shouted.
Thel ran over to me and looked out the window, he nodded and ordered. “Get back to High Charity now! We can’t match these fighters.”
The pilot nodded and we sped up considerably.
“No doubt that they won’t give up yet.” Tartarus said.
I continued to sit in the turret seat, not sure what exactly I felt. Pain and hatred, for my best friend, over a Sangheili I barely knew. And would never get to know.
High Charity was in sight now, the colossal mushroom-like Forerunner space station was getting closer. I felt the time getting closer where I would have to fulfil my promise.
At that moment, about one hundred Seraph fighters came out of Slipspace and began manoeuvring through the Covenant Fleet, a squadron took aim on our Phantom and our engines were failing.
“Arbiter, we are losing speed. They’ve cut off our engines and communications array,” Shouted the pilot.
“What can we do? An emergency landing?” Thel asked franticly.
“I can try but we need to stay at the height we are or we might just crash into the city itself. Weapons offline! Come on!” Roared the pilot.
“By the Gods, look at them.” Thel said.
I looked out and saw many Covenant frigates severely damaged, the Seraphs were soon joined by dozens of CCS Battlecruisers which were giant warships manufactured by Covenant technology. These were of a different design to the Covenant’s though; the colour was a dark green instead of silver.
The massive pulse cannon was on the belly and began blindly glassing every Covenant ship in sight.
The Phantom began to shake vigorously and was entering the atmosphere of High Charity, heat levels were raising as the Phantom started to burn up.
“Were going to end upon a Jackal’s platter if we don’t stabilize, fire reverse thrusters!” Tartarus barked.
The pilot flicked a switch and we felt the Phantom vibrate but we were slowing down.
“You might want to hold on.” Thel said to me.
I got out the seat and held onto a long rail which covered the ceiling, Tartarus did too as we were plummeting downwards.
“How could the Heretics formulate such an army, we have entered the city. No docking bays available.” The pilot said.
I saw a massive explosion in the battle overhead; a single Supercarrier had entered the battle. One of the most powerful ships in the Covenant Navy.
“Were coming in hot, my cockpit has frozen up...I can’t see a thing...Brace for impact!” He roared over the noise of the hull groaning.
A Sangheili passenger fell to the ground and his hoof accidently hit the switch that opens the door clamps, the air was sucked out and the fallen Sangheili was pulled out into the air. We held the railing with both hands now, Tartarus was roaring at the top of his voice but suddenly all the air was cut out.
I was in a state of shock as everything seemed to happen slowly, I felt the wind suck out everything, I closed my eyes and shook my head but I felt a massive jolt as we collided with the surface of the Holy City.
All went black and I saw no more.
But I could feel...Some light was up ahead. A golden ray of light, it struck me in the chest and my eyes began to glow the same as Sesa’s.
“Not Now!” I shouted. Though there was no sound.
I saw something calling for me, a person like a light at the end of the tunnel. It was beckoning me to get closer...What was it?
I turned away, left the calling angel in my trance and left the strange void I was in.
The heat was intense and causing suffocation, I was coiled on the floor...Waiting for it to stop and seconds later it did...I breathed no more.

  • 01.16.2009 3:42 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONICLE NINE: CANDOR
“He is waking up my Lord.”
“Good, keep him restrained.” A familiar voice came.
Vision was blurry and almost nothing was visible apart from a figure in a Gravity Throne dressed in a red robe. It soon became apparent that there was a strange green fluid inside this tube.
“My old friend...” Truth said.
“Decompressing the casket, stand by. You may feel a slight sloppy...” Another voice came.
The liquid in the tube was being drained and the figure was at last revealed.
“Candor...” Truth smirked.
A former Prophet lost in battle years ago against the epic struggle of Humanity had risen again, a little...Different this time though.
Truth snapped his fingers and the magnetic clamps on Candor’s hands released him. The Prophet of Candor stumbled out of the tube, a metallic leg burst to life and many parts of Candor’s body had been reconstructed and replaced.
There was no lower jaw, but a cybernetic instrument that covered the flesh. Instead of a red robe he bore a black cape which went over his left shoulder and down to his feet.
His eyes were melded in with his skin but a third blue eye was planted on his forehead and his right hand was a metal prosthetic.
Candor’s body had several cybernetic implants, including an incubator much like Sesa’s and a many wires connected to some of his organs.
Candor lifted his hand and stroked the back of his head taking in the scenery; he looked deep into the Prophet of Truth’s eyes and began to laugh in a harsh machine-like voice.

I was swimming in and out of consciousness, flickering between the events that had happened. Sesa ‘Refumee, struck down...Tartarus’ smirk and weird images of a time I had never known...Creatures, much like those encountered on Threshold were striking down and infecting faceless beings. Not literally faceless but they concealed their identity until I saw a figure in green armour...A woman too...A Human A.I I had seen before.
The man who gave Humanity hope, the last of his kind but the vision changed to the Phantom being struck down. A massive shard of metal in my stomach as I squirmed on the floor.
My eyes snapped open to see...A room, where was I?
“Kahzdan?” A voice said.
It got closer and closer until I saw the face of Thel ‘Vadamee. The one who killed Sesa...
“Are you alright? How are you feeling?” He asked.
I sat up in my bed, Sangheili beds were oval shaped and bowl-like, I saw that I was in a medical wing on High Charity.
“You hit the ground hard Kahzdan, I won’t lie to you...They had to...Replace some of your vital organs, your hand was broken off and your stomach was impaled. Though your impalement was the minimum of the damage you are lucky to be alive.” Thel smiled.
I got out of the bed and looked at my left arm, there was no ambidextrous four fingered hand but a cybernetic one connected to the scaly flesh. I recoiled in shock and horror but as I looked down I saw stitches on my stomach, I felt sick. More had happened to me in the past day, if it was a day I was out, than anything in my entire life. I met the father I never had, I lost him. I was fighting in an epic dogfight only to have lost my hand and been impaled through the stomach.
“I understand this is alot for you to take, I’ll leave you to your thoughts.” Thel bowed and left the room.
I slumped down in the bed, wondering what had happened...The last thing I remember was seeing a golden light releasing from my head and body...As I thought of this I remembered. A clear flashback was in front of my eyes now, the figure at the end of the tunnel waving at me, the cataclysmic smash of the Phantom as it broke the sound barrier when it collided with High Charity and the burning fire I was trapped in. It seemed so much.
Had I died? It certainly felt like it, I remembered seeing Sesa’s death...The same thing happened, starting with the burst of golden energy. I looked at my non-metallic hand but everything seemed normal and that is what made me think something was out of place here.
“Our destinies were intertwined Kahzdan, they can never be joined...” A voice echoed through my head.
My eyes were swimming, never the less I had a job to do. I made a promise and I will fulfil it!
I stepped out of bed but tripped and fell down; my cybernetic hand reacted immediately and thrust itself into the floor. There was a large dent in the floor as I got up; there was no feeling as I flexed the four fingers as if they were numb.
The door allowed my exit as I looked back at the clear mark I had left and I chuckled.

“Tell me now Truth! What happened after the battle?” Candor begged his answer.
“The Battle of Jericho VII? It was a victory and a noble one,” Truth exclaimed as he held out a holographic projector which revealed a large shard of glass from the Step of Silence depicting the world Glassed by the Covenant.
“Excellent, what happened to me?” Candor asked. His harsh but shrill voice showed excitement.
“You were lost, wounded in the ancient cities of Jericho VII...”
“And?”
“You died, Candor. Do you not remember?” The Prophet of Candor looked dumbfounded. Dead...How was that possible if he was here now?
“No matter, you shall remember in time. I resurrected you once your body was found and for the past seventeen years I have been bringing you back to life.” Truth said proudly. There was a cough from someone, Truth turned and saw another San ‘Shyuum next to Truth. This one was without a Gravity Throne but a strange belt which allowed him to float at will.
“Who is this?” Candor asked.
“This is a scientist who has helped me, along the way he has found out many things. Haven’t you, sir.” Truth said coldly.
“I assume you have no need for him anymore then?” Candor asked.
“Indeed...” Truth hissed.
Candor reared, sticking his chest out and held up his cybernetic hand. The San ‘Shyuum scientist shook in fear.
“No! You can’t do this...I helped you!” He shrieked. Truth snorted in disgust.
“Finish him!” Truth cackled.
A jet of lightning burst from the hand which lifted the poor creature off his feet, Candor slammed him into a wall and then a glass window that smashed. Glass shattered on the limp form of the scientist who was crying in pain.
At that time Tartarus came running in panting, “My Lord I...” He froze in speech seeing the enormous power coming from Candor.
“He is all yours.” Candor said. Tartarus walked slowly up to the pain filled scientist.
He reared his Fist of Rukt hammer and smashed it down onto his back sending a gravity shockwave which flung him up in the air and landed behind Tartarus.
“We’ll feed his body to the Jackals!” Tartarus said.
Candor seemed elated by his surrounding company, his old friend and a power hungry Brute. Tartarus shook hands with him and bowed.
“I know you, Noble Candor.” Tartarus said.
The three of them began laughing.
“Come, we shall bring you up to date here...” Truth said as he glided away. Tartarus picked up the body and carried it off.

END OF PART 1

  • 01.16.2009 3:43 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONICLE NINE: CONCLUSION
I felt different, something new and I was uncertain of the path ahead. I wondered if the battle had ended yet, if the Heretic Fleet was destroyed or victorious unfortunately I didn’t expect the latter.
I took a gravity lift to the Gemini Garden where I always went to go over things, for it was my only place of solitude on this city. There was no excitement or feel this time to the lift as I was propelled upwards and landed hard on the ground of the garden. My first sight was not a pleasant one; I’d arrived in the small domed room with the garden just beyond it. In front of me was a massive statue of the Prophet of Truth with a rotating hologram of Halo signifying the Covenant Religion. There was a deep feeling of disgust and hatred toward the master manipulator who ordered the billions of soldier to their deaths for a lost cause.
I walked past it and saw the beautiful elder tree and the open front which revealed the massive city and the Dreadnaught which held many mysteries.
Thel ‘Vadamee was standing atop a small mounted rock majestically, he noticed me walk up to him.
“Kahzdan, how are you?” He asked in a positive manner. I could tell it was a fake one though.
“Fine,” I lied, “what are you doing here?” I continued.
“You’ve been acting...Differently recently,”
“Have I?” I said with a tone of annoyance in my voice.
“Ever since your mission to the Holy Dreadnaught, tell me what is on your mind. I wish only to help.”
“Very well then,” I took a deep breath.
“Inside the Dreadnaught I met an old A.I and the Heretic leader who was only a Holodrone, he told me I was his real son and it was confirmed. I’ve unlocked many mysteries without answers, all this here,” I flung my arms out and turned away from Thel.
“This is all a lie, the Covenant, the Prophets, you. All of it! Mere tools for the Hierarchs to use at their measure, the duality of the Covenant is ending. You killed my father on Threshold!” I was enraged for the first time in my life, letting the hatred flow through my veins. My hearts were racing too. But Thel had always been calm, content and less than firm which was stressful enough to cope with aswell.
“There, you know the truth now...” I said.
“Those are words of heresy Kahzdan, choose them wisely.” Thel murmured.
“Are they? You’ll learn soon enough as I have, I have seen and I have learned. The Forerunners passed down to the Huma...”
“NO! Enough.” Thel pointed at me.
“Now listen, I’ve always looked out for you. Listened to you, comforted you but now you misplace your judgment, the Heretic leader cannot be your father you were born into a family fathered by a noble Sangheilian businessman. We have always been the servants of the Prophets, for centuries you would say that we have lived in ignorance, NO! Kahzdan. You need to re-think your loyalty because if you have sided with the Heretics then you are as much a friend to me as they are.” Thel clenched his fist in my face.
I merely laughed, “Soon you’ll understand what is really going on. I can see it now, this war can only go in circles until you see the truth.”
Thel put a hand on his energy sword but stopped, he sighed and walked off.
“I really expected more of you Kahzdan...”
I let out a sceptical laugh at Thel, I felt no hesitation in my raw outburst, I stayed where I knew it was wrong but not caring. I swiftly spun around at the thought that someone was watching me; my hand was clenched on my energy sword hilt ready for combat...There was nothing.

“So you mean to tell me that some Human imbeciles found a Sacred Ring by mere accident and this so-called Demon managed to single-handedly destroy it whilst an entire Armada of our forces were hunting them down!” Candor erupted.
“My my Truth...What happened to the Covenant?” He continued.
“I assure you Candor that our faith is as it has always been, the Demon has...In a way, helped us. The destruction of the first Halo made us deadlier than ever and in our genosidal campaign we have found another.” Truth held his arms out wide as a massive shutter opened revealing the open space and another Halo ring.
Tartarus bowed his head at the sight of it.
“Magnificent, isn’t it. I am preparing a strike team to find the Sacred Icon so we may begin the Great Journey...Soon our judgment day shall come and thou in faith shall come on the path.” Truth stroked his beard with a smirk on his face.
“My Lord...My Lord!” A Brute came running in.
“Yes, what is it?” Truth asked.
“That Sangheili Councillor and the Arbiter just had a heated argument, the Councillor speaks of heresy!”
“Who is this Councillor?!” Candor asked. His harsh voice sounded like nails scratching wood.
“K...Kahzdan ‘Verohmee sir.”
Truth looked astonished; the name struck a chord in his mind. There was something familiar...
“I remember now...That name, after all these years...” Candor was deep in thought.
“Of course!” Truth yelled, “The two of them were good friends as I recall, Kahzdan was present during the trial. Oh yes.”
Candor was paying no attention to anything around him; he was getting images in his head...Or what was left of his head.
He saw himself on a beach at twilight on the planet Jericho VII, commanding hundreds of Covenant troops and flanked by numerous air forces the night before the battle. On the Human calendar it was February 10th 2535, seventeen years ago. He saw a Sangheili who stood out from the rest in the crowd, dressed in ornate white armour and a large headdress.
“Candor? Candor...” Truth was snapping his fingers in front of Candor’s face but to no affect.
He continued to remember, the battle had begun and he was being protected by the same Elite along with numerous Honour Guards. Then he saw him, a Human in shiny green armour on the field fighting and killing his forces. He blasted the Human back but he retaliated by firing a fusion coil which exploded next to a wall of plasma coils being shipped to High Charity.
The scene changed and the battle damaged Prophet had ordered the Glassing of Jericho VII only to be engulfed in a strange golden energy.
“CANDOR!” Truth roared and the Prophet snapped out of his trance.
“Sorry, erm...Yes, I remember that Sangheili from Jericho VII. He was under my command.”
“Perhaps we should test his loyalty to the Covenant and the Arbiter’s too. You there,” Truth pointed at the Brute who had brought the information. “Be gone now, send for the two of them but only tell them that I beg an audience for each individual.”
“Very well sir.” The Brute nodded and left the chamber.
“If they both choose not to follow the Covenant then you will both have the honour of killing them, painfully.”
Tartarus chuckled and Candor nodded.
“And if one should choose a separate fate for themselves, then they will have the pleasure of killing each other.”

  • 01.16.2009 3:44 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONICLE TEN: HONOUR OF A HERETIC
“Creatures of the Covenant, rejoice...We have a new mission, the Great Journey is getting closer. Our time of salvation is here, let none forget their oath but know this. If you should falter, know that one final effort is all that remains.” Truth’s voice echoed on the loudspeaker.
I was on my way to the Hierarchs for which I had been summoned, an audience with Truth was my time to strike...I kept asking myself, what if I fail? I’ll surely be killed but then, did my actions indicate I had any intentions to survive? I was ready for death, even when I looked into its cold, dark eyes I was prepared...I knew it always happens, everything has a time and everything dies...
“This is our unyielding, noble warriors. Soon we shall become Gods...” Truth continued to broadcast.
As I made my way I saw many Brutes scrambling over each other for what looked like the armour of the Honour Guard, was this the time? It appeared the Prophets were replacing the Sangheili with the vicious Jiralhanae, the death of Regret seemed to have turned a new leaf for the Covenant and it seemed to have done Truth a favour.
“I have listened to the wisdom of the Oracle, I have unlocked the most ancient secrets and I have learned. Our beliefs have been confirmed...The Great Journey starts with Halo.”
I walked past the cell block of prisoners, there were cages filled with crazed Jackals, Heretics and...Humans...There was no guard around, they must all have gathered near Truth, the panel to unlock the cells was at the end of a room I showed no hesitation in pressing it.
“What the...” A Human said.
“You are free, I am not like the others. I can help you escape, first you need weapons...” I snatched a bunch of Needlers and an array of other Covenant armament.
“This isn’t some kind of trick...” Another Marine asked.
“No, I am on a mission to assassinate the Prophet of Truth. Can you help me? Put our differences aside...Just for once.” I asked with a tone of hope in my voice.
The Marines studied me carefully, eventually he nodded and a broad smile came on my face.
“Don’t try anything against us though!” Yet another said.
“I can promise to try and get you off here as soon as the Prophet is dead.” I said.
I tossed each weapon to the dozen Humans, “What about them?” A Marine asked.
I looked at the starving, carnivorous Jackals. The un-tamed Hunters and to my surprise five Sangheili Councillors.
“Kahzdan...Kahzdan ‘Verohmee, is that you?” One of them asked.
“Yes, it’s me. Who are you?”
“Nobody important. Can you get us out of here?”
I nodded and pressed the panel again, their cell opened and the leaped out.
“Now then, what is this mission you are on?” The Councillor asked.
“We are going to assassinate Truth, I have a promise to honour as a Heretic. I see you were imprisoned by...”
“Brutes,” The Councillor cut across me. “I refused to accept the change of the guard and was thrown in here with my friends, we’ll happily join you.”
“Good, we have enough people to secure the Prophet alive then. Let’s go.” I said.

Thel ‘Vadamee walked down the long bridge leading to the Sanctum of the Hierarchs. He had made it first, on his way he saw numerous Brutes fighting each other for the armour of the Honour Guard.
The doors opened and he saw Rtas ‘Vadumee conversing with the Prophets of Truth and Mercy, two Sangheili guards by his side.
“This is unprecedented...Unacceptable!” ‘Vadumee said angrily.
“A Hierarch is dead, Commander.” Truth replied calmly.
“His murderer was within our grasp. If you had not withdrawn our Phantoms...” He argued but Truth interrupted him.
“Are you questioning my decision?” Truth sneered indignantly.
“No, Holy one! I only wish to express my concern that the Brutes...” Yet again, Rtas was interrupted by Truth raising his hand for silence.
“Re-commissioning the guard was a radical step. But recent events have made it abundantly clear that the Elites can no longer guarantee our safety.”
“I shall relay...Your decision...To the Council.” Rtas concluded.
He turned away and was guided out by his two Guards, Rtas nodded at ‘Vadamee who heard Truth whisper, “Politics, how tiresome...”
Thel walked up to the Prophets who were gathered near a small, sealed terminal.
“Do you know, Arbiter? The Elites have threatened to resign...To quit the High Council, because of this exchange of hands.” Truth said softly.
“We have always been your protectors.” Thel replied.
“These are trying times...For all of us.”
“Even as the Humans’ annihilation filled us with satisfaction, the loss of one of the Sacred Rings racked our hearts with grief.” Mercy wheezed.
“Putting aside our sorrow...We renewed our faith in the Prophecy that other Rings would be found, and see how our faith has been rewarded...” Truth held out his arm and the all turned to face the giant window which saw a new Halo rotating slowly.
“Halo! It’s divine wind will rush through the stars, propelling all who are worthy along the path to salvation...” Mercy hailed the Ring.
“How to start this process,” Truth stroked his small beard. “For ages, we searched for one who might unlock the secrets of the Ring and with your help we found it...” Truth said as he snapped his fingers. The Terminal opened and a beam of light shot out as Guilty Spark was slowly rotating and for once, not talking.
“With appropriate humility, we plied the Oracle with questions. And it, with clarity and grace had shown us...The Key.” Mercy said who held up a hologram of the Index. A T-shaped object which is used to activate a Halo.
“You will journey to the surface of the Ring and retrieve this Sacred Icon...” Truth ordered.
“Salvation, for all!” Mercy held his arms up in triumph.
“...And begin the Great Journey.” Truth concluded.
Thel nodded and asked, “When to I venture to the surface?”.
“Soon, very soon but first we have devised...A test...” Truth said. His voice became a little more menacing now.
“Test?” Thel asked, “Is my loyalty not enough?”
“We shall see...” Truth whispered.

END OF PART 1

  • 01.16.2009 3:44 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONICLE TEN: PART 2
I reached the Sanctum of the Hierarchs, my orders were for the Humans and Councillors were for them to infiltrate the chamber by going around a different way.
The doors opened and I was astonished to see Thel ‘Vadamee standing next to the Hierarchs.
“Ah, Kahzdan has arrived. Good day Councillor.” Truth said. He could not contain his excitement any longer.
“You summoned me?” I said.
“Indeed,” Truth nodded. I heard footsteps and a figure emerged out of the shadows. “An old friend wants to say hello...”
Candor walked in, his artificial eye staring at me.
“No...That’s not possible...”
“It is! Remember me?” Candor laughed. His harsh voice echoed through my head.
“Word is that you’ve been a bad Sangheilian...Is that correct Arbiter?” He turned his head.
Thel backed away, “I have told you nothing!” He growled at the advancing Prophet.
“Oh but I know all about young Kahzdan, his betrayal, his deceit, his...Father!” Candor reared.
“You!” I pointed at Thel.
“Activate holding cell!” Truth said. Candor snapped his mechanical fingers and a bright light appeared around both Thel and me.
“This is your test...Now.” Mercy said.
“Draw your blades!” Ordered Truth.
“What?!” Thel shouted.
“Prove your loyalty to the Covenant and strike down this Heretic! You will obey the Prophets, we are your masters!” Mercy cackled.
“No.” Thel said firmly. Truth nodded at Candor who held up his right arm and shot a burst of lightning at him.
Thel was suspended in the air, shaking in pain and unable to move away from the holding cell.
“Obey our demands, Thel ‘Vadamee! Strike down the Heretic and you will be ensured a path on the Journey. Deactivate holding cells!” Truth said.
Candor snapped his fingers again and the light disappeared.
“Open view screen.” Mercy said. A holographic screen appeared and Truth spoke on the loudspeaker.
“Creatures of the Covenant, today you shall witness the cost of failure. This is an example to all who would dare break our Covenant, take heed Sangheili.” Truth said.
“NOW!” I roared. The Humans began to fire from moving platforms at the top of the Sanctum and the three Councillors leaped down, armed with energy swords.
Candor immediately fired a burst of lightning from his hand but the energy sword absorbed the blow and deflected it, Candor was taken by surprise and leaped out the way.
“KILL HIM NOW ARBITER!” Truth roared.
“NO!”
“Kill him or face my judgment!” Truth blasted Thel.
The Councillors were busy attacking Candor who was having trouble holding them off; the Marines flew the platform downwards making it crash to the floor.
Candor’s eye sent a wave of energy at Thel who was still resisting Truth’s commands, the energy took control of Thel’s mind and he drew his sword.
I leaped back and drew mine, my left hand was similar to Candor’s as it independently shot lightning at Thel. The Humans were advancing on Mercy who fired his Gravity Cannon at them, blasting them back.
“Vermin!” He scowled.
My sword clashed with Thel’s and we were now battling, he was fighting against his will whilst being controlled by Candor.
“I’m sorry Kahzdan!”
“I know.”
We were each extremely skilled with the blade, green and blue became but a blur as we parried each other’s moves. We were moving blindly and I had no idea where I was backing away to until I heard the door to the chamber open and we were outside.
We were at the back entrance and emerged into the Hanging Gardens, there was a small stream under seven curved bridges and Grunts were sat in a circle, sleeping.
The clash of our swords awoke them and they started frolicking around, running wild and panicking. Thel hit me in the chest and kicked me into a gravity lift, he jumped into the lift aswell and we were both soaring upwards.
We emerged in a strange place I had never seen before, there were hundreds of cryogenic tubes holding the Flood, the creatures I’d seen on the Dreadnaught and on the Threshold Gas Mine. There was no time to examine their state however as Thel was attacking me again, our blades connected and we were locked.
“Are you afraid to die, Kahzdan?” Thel asked.
“No...Are you?”
“Life is cruel, why should death be any different? This isn’t my choice...”
“You can end it! Candor is controlling you, we can face him together and bring him down...I can set you free!” I roared at Thel.
“My freedom was brought a long time ago!” He said.
I was thrown backwards and fell through a window, there was a strong gust of wind heading west and I fell against a control panel. There was a spluttering noise and a machine was brought to life, the cryo tubes were opening and the Flood was released.

END OF PART 2

  • 01.16.2009 3:45 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

CHRONICLE TEN: CONCLUSION
“You fool!” I shouted at Thel but he was already backing in the fight.
The Flood gave a strained groaning sound as each tube opened, one by one. I disarmed Thel who then flipped backwards to retrieve his sword, I looked around to find I was at the end of a ledge that was a thousand meter fall down. There were hundreds of floors, each one with at least two hundred tubes.
“Do you know what you’ve done?! The Parasite has been released!” I yelled at the top of my voice.
A dark voice that sounded like that of the Devil’s echoed throughout the station.
“The pit is open...AND I AM FREE!” It said coldly.
There was no way out other than down, Thel was up and ready when I leaped off the edge of the station. Thel followed and we were plummeting downwards, the air got thicker as we dodged different platforms orbiting round the station.
A long pole was coming in to sight; my mechanical hand gripped it with ease as I swung around and flew back up. The hand somehow managed to lock on to a platform and I was able to stabilise myself again.
Thel had less fortune; he swung on the beam only to fly onto a floor infested with Flood forms. I drove the platform towards him and held my hand out, “Take it!” I shouted.
He gripped it and I pulled him onto the platform, we were once again engaged in a sword fight.
“Thank you, Kahzdan. I’ll remember that.” He said.
“Don’t worry, if I die you can consider that a bonus...” I laughed.
The platform was rapidly gaining height until it stopped at the very top, we leaped off and I ran to the exit. A door led to another gravity lift which took us back down.
We were thrown back into the Sanctum of the Hierarchs after a long flight down again. Truth eyed us both as he expressed curiosity that I wasn’t dead yet.
“Is this the best you can do, Arbiter?!” Truth smirked.
He didn’t reply but continued to swing, now more violently as Truth’s words struck a chord in him. Candor looked offended.
“Enough of this! I shall finish him.” Said Candor. He snapped his fingers and Thel came out of his trance.
Candor walked towards Thel and threw him aside, he shot a burst of lightning at me and yet again my left hand reacted immediately. The lightning bursts joined and created a massive explosion in the middle, everything was blown backwards but Candor and I were still locked in battle.
“You will not for-stall my judgement!” Candor roared in his mechanical voice.
The lightning seemed to have moved to another phase as what appeared to be a transparent rainbow had formed a bubble around us, my hand began to vibrate and it was excruciating pain to hold on.
Yet another phase as the lightning was now moving towards the weaker person, it moved towards me fast and just as it was about to get me I deflected it with the energy sword.
The whole room was illuminated and Truth stared in shock at what was going on, Mercy was dumbstruck. The lightning flew back towards me as Candor fired more lightning out of his second hand and I was thrown off-balance as it collided with my hand. I was lifted into the air and thrown backwards so hard I put a dent in the wall, I thought my back was broken but Candor showed no mercy.
“Do not kill him!” Truth shouted. Candor tilted his head, “Let the Arbiter finish him off...” Truth said smugly.
Candor picked me up by the throat and threw me towards Thel, who was sprawled on the floor next to the bodies of the Councillors and Humans.
“No...NO!” I shouted as I saw their bodies.
I turned and saw another jet of lightning fly towards me, this time my hand remained solitary. I was struck in the chest and paralysed on the floor.
Truth threw Thel his energy sword who was once again under Candor’s influence. He walked slowly towards me, the blade ignited.
“After tonight, Kahzdan...Nobody will ever again question my authority and my power.” Truth grumbled.
“Well I guess you’ll be dead soon enough, Truth. The Flood has been unleashed...” I wheezed. I felt a surge of satisfaction as Truth’s eyes widened in shock. He feared the Flood more than anything else.
“KILL HIM!”
Thel stopped in front of me, I looked up. Images were flashing through my mind, I saw it again...The tunnel, the light, the Angel...
“Do it.” I said calmly to Thel.
Truth blinked at me, “Do you not fear death?” He asked.
“No, I do not.”
“Then do it now, Arbiter! I’ll be sure to erase any memory of this vermin from your mind after.” Candor teased.
A tear dropped from Thel’s eyes, he put an arm on my shoulder and whispered something in my ear. A look of shock came on my face as he closed his eyes.
“I’m so sorry...”
Those were the last words I heard as I received a blow to the chest from the energy sword, I stood up and the same process that happened to Sesa happened to me.
Golden energy became flames as I slowly died, my life was flashing in my head and the Angel was beckoning me closer...I obeyed knowing it was time now...I failed. This was the cost of it.
I was lit up like a phoenix before death now; the energy was streaming out of my body ready to float as atoms in the air. Perhaps I would find peace in a new heaven but the last thing I knew was happiness, I’m dead now but that doesn’t make sense because you see...Maybe I’m not.
I’m still thinking away, the whole of time and space rushing through my head...I’m alone in the darkness...But I will find a way to return...

  • 01.16.2009 3:45 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

EPILOGUE: THE ANGEL AND THE FOG
I smote Death's dream kingdom,
Appear as sunlight on a broken column.
There in Death's other kingdom walking alone,
Trembling lips form prayers to broken stone
The stone breaks and forms anew
A golden fog, daring me to look back
Side by side we march as one
The Angel has sent me through the fog

That voice...It sounds, familiar...Only flashes appear in my mind, do I have a mind?
I have no sense of weight, am I alive? And yet...I see all, everything...The whole of creation, time and space in my eyes, I am abandoned by the Angels...Or am I here for a purpose?
A surge of life is inside me, something that gives me hope...I see an old watch, something of an artefact or perhaps even a relic that has been passed down by families for years.
The Angel tells me to fulfil what I promised, to end all the sorrow...How, dear Angel can I do this? Such a momentous task for but one man...Who am I...What am I...Where am I?
The watch is my salvation, I can lock myself away until its time...Yes, I am inside...I have seen and I have learned but I must wait.
Life begins with a touch of death, and yet Death begins with Life’s first breath...I know who I am...I am Kahzdan ‘Verohmee, I am one hundred and forty-two years old...I’m from the planet Sangheilios and a Heretic of the Covenant, I don’t know much now but one thing I do know is that I am not dead...I am very much alive and I have a promise to keep.
The voice goes on, as does life until time is up...Each heartbeat is just another second closer to death, I lie in wait...Just longing for purpose, someone shall find me no matter how many months or years or ages I must wait.
The fog grows thicker, clouding my vision and making my future uncertain.

I dwell in my own prison
My own cage of demise
However one day I shall rise again
The fog shall clear and I will be new
The pinnacle of life is as the grass’ morning dew
It is as now I await my true fate
Release the lies and end the hate
I shall walk a path, a long journey as they did before
This time, I shall become something...Great

A new voice echoed through my mind, a deep groan..."This is not your grave...But you are welcome, in it."

THE END

  • 01.16.2009 3:47 PM PDT

Halo: Heretic or Hero---An Elite's Story
Choose your own destiny

FanFicFactor
Forged in the Flames of Passion, go forth and represent!

I've read the first four chapters. I'll post a review when I read a bit more, if that's cool.

:D

  • 01.16.2009 7:23 PM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

Sure :)
I'm going to go through the editing process soon, after I've finished the mini chapters which I'll post up here.

  • 01.17.2009 1:04 AM PDT

its really good

  • 01.17.2009 1:09 AM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

Thanks, I've got a Prequel and Sequel coming up in the duration of this year.
I recognise you Wolverfrog...Hmmmm

  • 01.17.2009 1:35 AM PDT

By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

HONOUR OF A HERETIC
THE THREE COUNCILLORS

A cold breeze softly blew through the massive chamber where everything seemed to happen so slowly, Kahzdan ‘Verohmee’s energy sword was moving blindingly fast and bright sparks showered the place as the Arbiter parried his moves.
The platform the Humans were on came crashing down on Candor who easily caught it with a single hand, the Humans leaped off and took cover as Candor reared and threw the pedestal like a Frisbee.
“Kill the Heretics!” Truth roared.
The three Councillors drew their blades, Kahzdan and the Arbiter had disappeared now leaving a trail of cuts in the floor.
Candor shot a burst of lightning from one of his hands; the first Councillor absorbed the blow with his energy sword. “You’re a lie Candor! You’re a lie...” The second said as he charged towards him only to be grabbed by the throat with Candor’s free hand.
The Humans began sending a barrage of gun and plasma fire upon Candor as Truth watched in curiosity, admiring his new creation.

The third Councillor leaped into the air, clearly skilled as a swordsman he soared in an arc and landed cleanly on the floor right next to Candor’s leg. A swift swipe at it caught the Prophet off-guard as he staggered backwards, though the damage was minimal, lightning was bouncing off the walls until it caused a great explosion which threw the Prophet of Truth out of sight with a loud yelp.
The Humans were advancing now they had the advantage, no way could Candor kill all of them.
“Aim for the eye!” One of the Human commanders called.
Candor screeched in pain as three projectile bullets hit the third eye, he backed away as plasma fire burned through it but only seconds later he was back in the fight and more enraged than ever.
Another burst of lightning got one of the Councillors square in the chest as he was lifted off his feet and smashed into a wall, clear purple blood was seeping from his wounds and steam was evaporating in the air from the heat blast.
“Man down! We’ve got a man down...” A Human called but he too was thrown into the air. Not by Candor but Truth was laughing mercilessly as the heavy gravity cannons tore away his stomach, his body was separated from his legs as the spine quickly disintegrated.
“You’ll pay for that, you bastard!” A Councillor roared over the noise of constant explosions.
“You have disgraced our Covenant; put our Great Journey in jeopardy and so you shall pay the price.” Said Truth.
Candor was now duelling the Councillors with his metallic hands; the energy sword showed no sign of damage and Candor showed no sign of pain.
“You can’t kill me...” He barked in his coarse, harsh voice. “I’m already dead!”
He stepped backwards, the fighting stopped. Candor pulled off the cybernetic mouth cover revealing the inside of his mouth; the Councillors recoiled in disgust as there were two large circles where the case fitted on. Inside was a clicking instrument and uneven flesh, there were several long chords at the side of the mouth opening.
Truth showed no sign of disgust; he merely showed amusement as a Human threw up in a corner at the sight. The jaw case clicked back into place, it seemed to be getting colder...
Truth examined his elongated fingers as a massive explosion caused gust of wind blew through the chamber, it had the force of a small hurricane and several Humans were blown out into the vacuum. The Councillors boots were able to magnetically clamp to the floor, the battle had resumed. The Humans clung on to whatever they could hold, there could be no back-up from them but one held up a customised pistol and aimed it at Candor’s eye.
“NO!” Screamed Truth as the bullet fired from the gun. The bullet spun in the air, it saw its target and hit Candor’s eye perfectly, blinding him. Candor screeched in pain and held out both his hands, lightning turned into a storm as it combined with the vacuum.

“You shall not fore-stall my judgment VERMIN!” Candor roared as the lightning shocked another Human...There were only five left now.
The Human with the pistol continuously fired at Candor, each one hitting a different part of his head. That was until one bullet missed and rebounded off a wall, it hit the Human’s hand and he was sucked out of the chamber and into the airless void.
The lightning was growing unstable now, bursting and smashing new holes in walls with every passing second, the two remaining Councillors became one as the wind caused the second difficulty to breathe.
He dropped his sword and swayed on the spot as Candor’s arm tore through one of his hearts, he fell to his knees and flew out on a journey of his own.
“Activate emergency shielding!” Truth said as he pressed a button on his throne.
A bright blue shield emitted, the vacuum ceased and the Humans quickly began to look for their guns.
“DAMN! The vacuum must have sucked them out,” A Human sighed.
“We’ll die like Humans, thank you...All of you...” Another said. He showed no fear in his fate; Truth eyed them menacingly but showed no satisfaction in killing them.
The stream of burning plasma immediately disintegrated them as they died like true soldiers.
Only a single Councillor was left duelling, it was hopeless. He was tired, his sword dropped to the floor as Candor snapped his arm.
“Yes! Kill him, he was weak...Prove yourself Candor, wipe this creature from its pitiful existence!” Laughed Truth.
The Sangheili Councillor looked up, cradling his motionless arm and wincing in pain.
“You have served the Covenant well.” Truth said in a serious manner as the final Councillor was dead.
Truth stopped in amazement as the body of the Councillor burned away with strange golden energy, it burst from his arms and head much like Sesa ‘Refumee.
The body disappeared and left only a disgruntled Truth, Candor showed no amazement as his memory flashed back to the battle of Jericho VII...There was something strangely familiar...
“Come! There is much to do...”

  • 01.17.2009 2:27 PM PDT
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Not sure if this should be in the Gallery section though. I like it though, maybe we could work on web comics for it?:P

  • 01.17.2009 7:50 PM PDT

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