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  • Subject: Et Tu Conservation?: Deception of a San 'Shyuum (Completed)
Subject: Et Tu Conservation?: Deception of a San 'Shyuum (Completed)
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Below is my attempt to create a series detailing the events of San 'Shyuum, aka Prophet, society years before their civil war, their war against the Sangheili, or the formation of the Covenant. A lot of this can not be confirmed as canon and should not be used as such.
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The Minister of Conservation was a politician in the cog of San 'Shyuum societal machine. He was not a typical politician though, he had a thirst for power. Through revolution and old fashioned deceit, he accomplished that with far reaching results.


Introduction to San 'Shyuum society

The society of the San 'Shyuum is one that should sound familiar to any human historian. Their people are divided into two classes, the Important and the Stagnant, but both classes are divided into several sub-classes. The Important are dominated by the politicians, called Ministers, followed by the financial overseers and artisans. Stagnant society has no real class difference other than it being full of poor laborers, slaves, and farmers. Ruling them all is one single Hierarch who guides the politics and army of the San 'Shyuum.

On their world, only one city can be found on the planet's surface, New Transcendence. It is a most peculiar city to someone viewing it for the first time. The Importants live along the sides of a multi-leveled pyramid that has terraces built on it for holding buildings and streets. Each building could be called an aliens throwback to the ancient Roman's architecture. Grand metallic pillars, domes, and buildings could easily be mistake as Greco-Roman styles if it weren't on another planet. The top of the pyramid holds the Chamber of Law and Order, the source of all San 'Shyuum political decisions. Also on the top are the other political buildings, but none are more important than the Chamber. In the middle of the pyramid houses for all the Importants can be found. Just below that on the final level are the financial institutions and art studios, both highly regarded parts of San 'Shyuum culture as money helps reason flow and art stimulates the mind.

Not found on the grand pyramid are the homes and businesses of the Stagnant society. They live clustered around the pyramid in make-shift ghettos and farms. It is here that they are used as cheap labor, agriculturalists, and slaves. They always have a view of the great pyramid everywhere they go, but they can never get to it. Oddly enough, they continue to be the majority of San 'Shyuum society as their portion of the city expands for hundreds of miles.

Both societies have different up brings and physical traits. The Importants do not step foot on the ground as they levitate with anti-gravity belts while the Hierarch uses a gravity throne. They float everywhere along the pyramid and only take them off when they are on an elevated surface such as a chair or bed. Stagnants do not have such technology and must traverse on foot as they live their lives. Given the Importants lack of physical exercise, they grow frail quickly as they never exert any effort to move. The Stagnants are much more physically fit and have more muscle mass than the Importants, but the lack of food degrades this advantage.

Even with such class differences, they are all unified under one religion, the worship of a long extinct race of extraversions called the Forerunners. Many years ago, the Forerunners controlled the galaxy with their advanced technology. Nothing could stand in their way for as long as their empire stood. One day, that changed when the Flood, a race of parasitic creatures, came onto the galactic stage. The Flood devoured sentient life for reasons unknown, but they had to be stopped. Unfortunately, the Forerunners could not stop the Flood, even with their advanced technology. In a last ditch effort, they created the Halo Array, seven rings that would destroy all sentient life thus starving the Flood of their food. Overall, the plan succeeded with devastating results done to the Flood. While not outright affected by the Halo Array, the Flood slowly died off as they could not infect anymore life. Once the Flood were sterilized enough, reseeding projects by the Forerunner's robotic machines began and, in essence, recreated life. The Forerunners died as a result of the ring's activation, but in all actuality, they elevated themselves into gods. All San 'Shyuum believe in the Forerunners as evidence of their existence exists all around their world. A giant ship crashed on the planet eons ago and remains a sacred spot too all. The religion, labeled the Great Journey, involves finding the Halo rings and activating them. Once activated, the San 'Shyuum would also transcend into godhood and live on forever. As of now, that has yet to happen even with the San 'Shyuum's own advances in space faring technology.

The naming of individual San 'Shyuum is done by using a two step system. First, the names of young San 'Shyuum are determined by selecting a virtue or action like truth, mercy, or repentance. That will be their name until they reach maturity and get a proper title. These titles are the jobs that the now mature San 'Shyuum get. With all this in mind, a complete name for an individual may be the Minister of Repentance or the Artist of Humility. For the rest of their lives, they will either by referred to by their titles or by their premature name.

For thousands of years, San 'Shyuum society has been revolving around all of these concepts with no foreseeable problems. However, one individual would change everything about society because of his vast influence and resolve. This San 'Shyuum was the Minister of Conservation and in an ironic twist, did not conserve San 'Shyuum society, but shifted it towards something far different. This is his story.

[Edited on 01.08.2010 8:47 PM PST]

  • 01.03.2010 7:31 PM PDT
Subject: Et Tu Conservation?: Deception of a San 'Shyuum

I'm someone you knew, maybe even were friends with.....but from another time...another place.

The Mayans were the most epic trolls EVAR.

cool story, bro


Just jokin. Good job, I've never seen a story about the Prophets like this before. Nice..prologue?

  • 01.04.2010 5:46 AM PDT
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Part I: Set In Motion

The Minister of Conservation sat in his seat in the Chamber of Law and Order. At that moment, the Holy Hierarch was making a proclamation that Conservation did not particularly care about. It was in regards to the supposed decline in the birth rate of young San 'Shyuum in the Important society. This discussion did not move him at all as he believed that the issue was non-existent. Plenty of notable Importants had heirs and with the concubines that circulate among the polygamist San 'Shyuum, a lack of children should never become a problem.

What was on Conservation's mind was in regards to their religion. They had a grand fleet of ships looking Forerunner artifacts all around known space, but have yet to find any. He wanted to know why it was taking such a long time to find anything. Once the Hierarch finished his declaration, which allowed an increase in the amount of children San 'Shyuum families could have, Conservation raised his hand to signal his opportunity to bring up new business.

"Noble Hierarch," Conservation said "I would like to bring up new business to discuss in the Chamber."

The Hierarch nodded his head and replied "Minister of Conservation, you may have the assembly,".

Conservation activated his gravity belt and gravitated to the pedestal reserved for speaking Ministers. Once there, he stared at the collective of his fellow Importants in order to make sure his position would be heard.

"Fellow Ministers, I have at hand an issue regarding our faith," Conservation declared "One that pains me to say,".

All around the Chamber murmurs started to buzz around in anticipation of Conservation's next remark. He would have to chose his next words carefully as religion was a very serious subject in San 'Shyuum society and anything taken as a heretical statement would be met with terrible action. Collecting the last of his thoughts, Conservation spoke once more.

"It has come to my attention that the pursuit of the artifacts of our gods is taking far longer than it needs to be. We have our own technology and that we have found on our planet to guide us, but it is not enough. Therefore, I propose going into the god's great ship and seeing if it has a map of all the locations of their artifacts."

Uproars echoed thought the Chamber, so much so that the Hierarch had to call everyone back into order. Conservation knew his statements would be reacted to like that, going into the ship was not a well liked topic. At least he could understand why, it was a sacred spot that did not deserve defilement. However, it could unlock numerous relics of the Forerunners thus making it an ideal notion to getting inside. As it stood though, many in the San 'Shyuum rejected this idea as heresy, not enough to get Conservation killed, but enough to question his beliefs.

"Minister of Conservation," the Hierarch said with disgust "I would expect someone like you to understand why that idea is not discussed. I believe I speak for everyone in the Chamber when I declare that proposaldismissed.".

Cheers of agreement erupted through the Chamber when the Hierarch finished. Beaten, Conservation returned back to his seat bitter and awestruck that the idea of entering the ship had not yet changed. Something had to be done, but what could he do? Conservation decided he would find a way to accomplish his goals by any means necessary. Once the session ended, Conservation decide to take a stroll through New Transcendence to both blow off steam and plot.

Upon returning home, he was greeted by his wife Benevolence, who went by the title Artisan of Benevolence. She smelt of excess dust of creating a sculpture, not surprising seeing as she was an artist.

"Ah my husband I see you return from the Chamber," she said with a smile that deep down had a hint of worry, "I feared something happened to you when you did not return at your usual time."

"My dear wife Benevolence," Conservation reassured her "I merely had to wander the city to remove the clouds of discord from my mind. I made the notion of traversing into the Forerunner cruiser and was immediately rejected by the fellow Ministers and Hierarch."

"Oh Conservation would think you'd know better than to bring up that foolish nonsense," Benevolence replied "It is a sacred spot."

"You sound like the Hierarch," he told her "Although you were not as volatile in your response."

She simple shrugged off his remark and hovered back to her work, a grand statue of the Hierarch crafted out of fine stone. The statue was created in such a way that it seemed like it was alive and breathing. Each feature was specially chiseled, molded, and fine tuned until it looked like the person being sculpted, right down to the more subtle features. The Hierarch had a peculiar forehead one that gave him the look of a prehistoric San 'Shyuum. It was a common joke at the Hierarch's expense that many San 'Shyuum often recited in private. In any case, that forehead was captured brilliantly as were his other physical features. His arms were out streaked in the air, possibly hinting at his goals to expand their race.

Conservation could bear to stare at it no longer as he made his way into the main living area. Fashionable and comfortable cushions littered the décor, only the finest went to the Importants like himself. He rested his head on a plush cushion and closed his eyes.

Tomorrow will be a new day Conservation thought to himself And soon my plan will come full circle.

  • 01.04.2010 1:51 PM PDT
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Part II: Progression

When he awoke, Conservation immediately set forth his scheme. Getting enough support to topple the foundation of San 'Shyuum society would be a Herculean task in an of itself. However, there was one place that such ideas festered, the Stagnant portion of the city. It was easy to see why such a place fermented such things, it was a hellhole. The place stank of poor sanitation, disease, and hatred. The Stagnant section of New Transcendence was dubbed "The Rot" by Importants for reasons stated numerous above. Conservation knew he had to enter such a place for his idea to work.

He soon came upon one of the "famous" denizens of The Rot, a agriculturalist San 'Shyuum who went by the title Fieldworker of Order. It may not have been the most honorific title, but it was one respected by many Stagnants and that was the key. If Conservation could sway Order in his cause, then he would have the manpower to accomplish his goal.

"Hello my fellow San 'Shyuum brother," Conservation announced with false enthusiasm "I would like a word with you".

"Why do you call me brother?" Order asked "You are no brother to me nor have any of you Importants ever".

"Let us put aside those ridiculous title Fieldworker so that we may have a proper discussion, male to male." Conservation requested.

Order stared at the floating, frail Conservation for several moments, wondering what he could possibly want with him. He had done no wrong, so it could not be for crimes against society. Also not done was move up in society as he was a common tiller of the soil. Curious, he pressed on.

"You have my attention Minister," Order replied "What do you want with me?"

"Oh it is a simple matter dear Order," Conservation said as he hovered around the farmer "I want to reform everything about the way our society is run and I believe I could use your help."

"That does not tell me why I am needed for your reforms," Order stated "Could you answer that?"

"You, Order, are a well respected member of Stag..*ahem* less fortunate San 'Shyuum and I think you're respect could help sway the commoners to my call."

Order countered by saying "My respect can only be taken so far Conservation. Besides, I don't quite think I want to help you seeing as a rumor is circulating that you may be branded a heretic due to your other call to infiltrate the sacred ship."

This San 'Shyuum, despite his status, was rather cunning and that threw Conservation off guard.

"That rumor is only partly true Order," Conservation stated "I did call to vote a decision to open the craft, but was not branded a heretic by the Hierarch or other Ministers. Do you not believe the ship may contain more answers about our fait and the gods?"

"Conservation." the lowly farmer responded with a grin "I may be poor and have had a simple life thus far, but I am not keen on the idea of desecrating the holy site. Until the day I die and pass on, I shall follow the faith of our people with no exceptions."

"No matter," Conservation said "That is not the focus of our discussion, I am still talking about reforms for all. Why even bring us such trivial nonsense?"

Order chuckled at this Important's ignorance of commanding followers.

"I only bring it up because even if I joined you and rallied my people, do you think they would follow a supposed heretic?," Order asked.

"Please consider my offer Fieldworker," Conservation almost said in desperation "I only have you and your people's best interests at heart. Help me and I promise on my life to improve the lives of your people. "

Debates about whether to consider this offer bounced around in Order's head. On one hand, the Minister sounded sincere in his request and any luxuries for the Stagnant population would be loved. However, hints of deceit lingered around the offer as well. It was well known that, contrary to his name, thought radical ideas and was considered dangerous.

"Will you use my people in non-violent ways?" Order asked Conservation "I do not take kindly to violence and can be put on the record of that."

"I wouldn't dream of such barbarianism, especially if I want to get a chance at reformation," Conservation reassured him "I to share your standards."

Again, Order considered the offer with all the things that had been said. He wandered his garden and looked at the great pyramid that dominated the skyline of New Transcendence. In the end, he decided to go on with the Minister of Conservations plan. Once told of the agreement, Conservation thanked Order and departed. His trip to the Stagnant slums was not over yet however, he needed a back-up plan, insurance in a way. Conservation wasn't really trying to secure ridiculous reforms to improve Stagnant life, he wanted power and influence. All to well he knew any vote geared to improve Stagnant life wouldn't work nor would it accomplish his goals. No, he needed revolution to garner the power he wanted.

The forces of revolution resided deeper in The Rot, inside the back alley avenues and cantinas. The things he saw were disgusting to an Important, unregistered prostitution, shameless criminals, and the continuous stench of rampant degradation both physical and mental. It was inside a run down alehouse that he found another well liked San 'Shyuum, although one who stood in contrast to Order. He went by the title Guard of Reason, a former solider in the San 'Shyuum military forces. Reason was built like a god, strong, thick muscles bulged across his arms, thighs and torso yet in this brute contained a mind overflowing with military wisdom. Thoughts of extreme change were also well-known to fester inside of his cranium, thoughts that Conservation wanted to exploit.

  • 01.04.2010 5:37 PM PDT
Subject: Et Tu Conservation?: Deception of a San 'Shyuum (Update #3 Out)
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Part III: Deception
Conservation casually made his way to the Guard of Reason all the while passing the repulsive atmosphere of the cantina. The Stagnant occupants stared at the clean, levitating Conservation in envy, but quickly went back to their drinks and min altering substances that plagued The Rot. As he neared closer and closer, Reason seemed to become larger and larger, causing s shiver of fear to creep up Conservations spine. Finally, the two drastically different San 'Shyuum ere face-to-face with each other.

"Hello Minister," Reason acknowledge in a gruff voice altered by his service "Would you mind telling me what you are doing traversing our slice of paradise?"

Roars of laughter erupted throughout the cantina in jest of Reason's joke. Conservation wasn't fazed by the sarcasm and indeed did not have time to play games.

"Dear Guard of Reason I do require your assistance in an important manner," Conservation said coolly "A matter that could deliver drastic for you and everyone here, why in fact"

"Before you continue Minister," Reason rudely interrupted Conservation "Do tell me why I should acknowledge your existence anyway as I have no time for silly talk."

Slightly frustrated by Reason's lack of manners, the Minister decided to cut to the chase.

"I have employed the support of the Fieldworker of Order to set forth reforms throughout our magnificent city," Conservation revealed "And using his standing in the community here I should garner many supporters."

"So why have you come to me Minister?' Reason asked "I fail to grasp your thought process on the matter."

"Simply put, I know full that any support I get from you Stagnants will have little effect on the other Ministers and Hierarch," Conservation said "And I know you are a well respected person here as well, one who has talents I could use."

Reason's facial expressions showed a hint of excitement at that part of Conservation's revelation and Conservation knew he had the ex-solider in his grasp.

"You may proceed with your offer Minister," Reason replied, "Tell me your plan."

Conservation allowed a smile to stretch out on his face and gladly continued.

"I promised Order that his people would only be used for non-violent actions," Conservation said "However I do not think that will be enough. As such I need you to secretly rally The Rot's denizens into a morepersuasive bunch when my plan does not succeed. I believe your prior standing in our people's military and your sheer stature should be able to accomplish such a task"

Only the sound of the cantina permeated as the discussion between Conservation and Reason ended. Conservation knew Reason was considering the offer by the subtle twitches his face was making. Reason craned his neck towards Conservations and replied "Yes."

"I am glad you see my point noble Guard," Conservation said as he turned away from the massive San 'Shyuum. However, before he could do so, he was stopped once again by Reason.

"I must ask what your motives behind such revolution are Minister of Conservation," Reason told him "You do not keep to your namesake with such plotting."

The Minister hovered toward him and said "If you believe I am doing this due to my embarrassment in the Chamber of Law and Order, then you are wrong," Conservation made himself clear "I grow tired of our people's cautiously laziness in technological progression and the failure of not finding any artifact's of our god."

The Guard just looked at Conservation and pondered at his response. Indeed, he noticed a decline in the creation of wondrous marvels being produced in New Transcendence and the lack of new Forerunner discoveries. He knew what that felt like from a first hand perspective.

Since civil war had not existed on their world since the Great Unification of San 'Shyuum and the massive conflict that proceeded it, the San 'Shyuum military was sent to protect archeologists and scientists at Forerunner sites. Reason personally killed native peoples and animals of planets with Forerunner finds for many years which gained his the reputation of being a brave warrior. However, over the years the finds stopped being found and time in space became the common experience. This frustrated Reason and prompted his exit of the military when his next window opened.

Coming back to the present, Reason was satisfied with what Conservation told him and allowed him to exit the cantina. When Conservation left, he began his work immediately, all the while imagining the outcome of the coming storm.

Conservation on the other hand knew it would take time for his plan to officially be set in motion and something had to be done about that. Deep down, even with the support of Order and Reason, getting the Stagnant society motivated would be a gargantuan task. It would cause a massive disaster for them to rally behind an Important, one that would cause them to march to action. With what he saw in The Rot fresh in his mind, that shouldn't be too hard. He could give the Ministers and Hierarch a report of what he saw and cause a series of mass arrests for crimes that would make the Stagnants feel oppressed.

No Conservation thought to himself That wouldn't work seeing as arrests like those run rampant throughout The Rot, bad idea.

Perhaps he could use a tactic commonly used in Important politics, assassination. It was perfect, he could get the assassin to do the dirty work while any suspicion of his own involvement would be non-existent. Who would be a good target for such a heinous affair though? It all started to make sense who the ideal target would be, Order. Conservation played out the scenario in his mind many times. He got the poor fool to stir up protest against the government, a crime by law, and protests could end up violent. In the past, the Ministers assigned assassins to kill voices of dissent with effective results. This time, a Minister would be creating the disobedience, have the instigator killed, and would have an already angered people, thanks to Reason's efforts, ready to take the heads of the heads of state. It was perfect.


[Edited on 01.05.2010 3:23 PM PST]

  • 01.05.2010 2:24 PM PDT
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Part IV: Betrayal

The Minister of Conservation was in need of a figurehead who would cast to blame on Order. Luckily, he knew the perfect Minister to do the dirty deed in his place. It was well known that the Minister of Fairness lacked the emotions to carry his name, but he was a popular ally to have. His charismatic speeches impressed many in Important society, so much so that it was thought he may become the next Hierarch. Conservation wouldn't allow that, but for his plan to succeed he needed him as he also had connections to assassins.

"May I have a word with you Fairness?" Conservation asked the other Minister.

"Ah Conservation," Fairness acknowledged "Indeed you may have a word with me on this glorious day."

"I took a tour of The Rot to gain insight of the issues that plague it and I discovered something that could prove disastrous," Conservation said "Action must be taken immediately."

"My what could this issue be?" Fairness seemed to wonder with intrigue.

"The chatter of revolution is emanating from there and I know the source," Conservation said inching nearer to Fairness "It is the Fieldworker of Order."

The Minister of Fairness as dumbstruck upon this false revelation that had been revealed to him. He hovered back and forth trying to comprehend how it could be possible. Order was known as a peaceful San 'Shyuum even in Important society, but now he wants to cause revolution?

"That can not be right Minister of Conservation," Fairness said with disbelief "Order is known for his peace everywhere through New Transcendence. Are you sure it wasn't that brute the Guard of Reason?"
"I am sorry to say dear Fairness that it is so," Conservation lied "You and I know what must be done."

Fairness knew very well what Conservation meant, but it was still hard to stomach.

"Assassination?" Fairness asked to which Conservation nodded. The dazed Minister had to find a place to regain his balance as the idea rushed through his head. Such things were not uncommon in San 'Shyuum politics, but this was a Stagnant citizen they were discussing. Could he do it? Finally, the Minister stood Conservation in the face and said,

"I can not believe he would be a traitor, but I must do what is best for all of us," Fairness said "I just don't know what I will do after the deed is done."

"I know he is your father Fairness, but he dares disrupt our society" Conservation insisted "You and I both know that we can't allow that to happen."

All Fairness could do was nod and float away in perpetual depression at what he was going to do. Not even blood could cause him to stop his deed. Conservation went away too, knowing full well how the aftermath would play out.

***

Order had gathered a crowd of fellow Stagnate citizens and incited a speech that would generate support of Conservation.

"My people the time has finally come that we have a champion to save us from our daily suffering that is The Rot. He is the Minister of Conservation and I have had a logical and rational discussion regarding the big issues of our loves. Say what you want about his religious ideology, but he is the best we have. In three day, we shall march towards the Important portions of New Transcendence and offer our support. The Hierarch and the Ministers will know our struggle and they will be forced to acknowledge it at last!"

Cheers rang out from the crowd of Stagnant San 'Shyuum as did thrusts of their fists in support. They chanted his name over and over while requesting more empowering words from him. Just arriving was a San 'Shyuum clad in a black cloak who only heard this portion of Order's speech.

"We shall provide an example to the Chamber's occupants in the form of mass protest. None of them will ignore our will and our demands will ring forever in their minds. What if they never acknowledge us? I will tell you what will happen, we shall"

Order was interrupted by a hot plasma blast to his skull from the black cloaked San 'Shyuum's particle beam rifle. The old Order slumped to the ground, the blood of his species pouring out of his head with chunks of brain. Chaos rained through the mass gathering as they saw heir guiding light of leadership die before their eye's. The assassin tried to flee, but he was subdued by outrages citizens. Reason was in attendance during the speech so when the assassin was captured, he made his way over to the murderer. The facial expressions of the killer indicated fear of punishment as he saw Reason make his way over to him. Attempting to escape wouldn't help him so he sat on the dusty ground awaiting his fate.

Massive Reason walked up to the assassin, smiled, and retrieved his particle beam rifle, aimed, and fired. This assassin would share the same fate as the assassinated today. Throwing the weapon down, Reason decided his purpose had finally come.

"My brothers and sisters hear my call. This is a sign that the Importants are trying to silence us from getting reforms on our behalf from being made. I say we continue our protest in Order's honor, but if our demands are not acknowledged, then it is revolution that the council will acknowledge. In three days, arm yourselves and go to the Chamber of Law and Order ready to defend your rights!"

Even bigger applause emanated from the crowd with fiery resolve. Nothing would stop them from doing what had to be done.

***

The home of the Minister of Fairness was like the rest of the Important housing found ion the pyramid. A main cube connected to several other cubes providing rooms. The layout was basic, you had a holoprojector, several pieces of furniture, and the after mentioned rooms. Fairness's study was unusually as nobody had seen it before, not even his own wife. This would change as Conservation paid the Minister a visit. When he could not be found, the study was the last place to check.

Inside was a sight Conservation knew was coming, the Minister was hanging from a strand of support wiring in the ceiling. The grief of having to send out a assassin to murder his own father was too much to bear. Horrifyingly, this fit perfectly in the dastardly plan Conservation was weaving. Now nobody could link the assassination on him, letting him continue revolution. With a devious smile, Conservation left the home of Fairness and awaited the day of his plan to come full circle.

  • 01.06.2010 3:52 PM PDT
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Part V: Arms Race

The Guard of Reason, along with four other cohorts, infiltrated the Important section of New Transcendence in the dead of night. Their objective was to raid a weapons depot to arm the protesters on the day of the intended revolution. They needed weapons that could be concealed from the guards who would be watching over the Chamber of Law and Order. Things like plasma pistols and plasma rifles would do the job nicely. However, they needed to get to the depot first and that was the biggest objective. Nightly patrols crawled all over the pyramid in an effort to enforce safety, an odd job considering crime never plagued the pyramid.

Carefully evading the patrols, they found the weapons depot. It was cross-shaped building reaching two stories in height. It was a relatively simple set-up by San 'Shyuum architectural standards, it had no columns or intricate decorations, just cold, hard metal. Getting inside wouldn't be a problem, Reason still had his weapons supply key card that granted him access to new weapons every time he returned to the planet from an mission. He swiped the card on the console which activated the lock mechanisms with a hiss of steam.

Inside, it was apparent that this building had not be in use for years. The crates and containers that housed the weapons were covered in dust, some were so old that rust was already kicking in. Water-pipes leaked overhead and small vermin skittered across the floor. It wasn't a huge problem, all they needed were functioning weapons. Luckily, time had not corroded the weapons as they were all ready to be used when needed. It was unrealistic to arm the entire Stagnant populace, but if enough of them were armed, they would be unstoppable. Reason and his cohorts opened up their sacks and dumped as many weapons as they could into them. Metallic clanking came thought the sacks as they ran out the depot, hoping for dear life that they weren't discovered by the patrols.

They weren't spotted of course and their loot was taken back to The Rot. Secretly, they gave members of the protest the weapons while telling others to find weapons wherever they could get them. Reason instructed the would-be revolutionaries to conceal the weapons in their cloaks and only to brandish them when instructed. Revealing them too soon would ruin the plan and cause catastrophic loses in life on their side. However, revealing them too late would have the same effect, perfect timing was the key to a success operation.

***

Conservation toured The Rot once again to check up on his "soldiers" progress. He came upon Reason, once again, in the same cantina he found him in. This time, he could speak freely to the Guard since the entire populace of The Rot knew of the revolution.

"Good morning Minister," Reason greeted first "What do you require from me?"

"I just came back down to evaluate your progress of arming the citizens," Conservation said "So I do not believe I have to ask a question about that."

Reason smiled "Me and four other San 'Shyuum raided the Metropolitan Weapons Depot in the cover of darkness last night," Reason reported "We were successful."

"Good," Conservation acknowledged "Does that mean the masses are prepared for the undertaking?"

The Guard of Reason nodded his elongated cranium and said "We only have two more days to wait noble Minister. When it comes, we shall assessable before the Chamber of Law and Order ready to pounce."

"Excellent," the Minister replied "I shall wait patiently for the day then."

With that, Conservation hovered off from The Rot back to the great pyramid from whence he came. He was sincerely surprised his plot had so far gone on without any difficulty from the Stagnant or Important societies. The ignorant Importants were left in the dark, while the Stagnants were playing into his hand. It was as it the god's themselves accepted his plan and offered their blessing.

Upon returning home, he was again greeted by his loving wife Benevolence, who still smelled of her artful endeavors. This time, it was not the excess dust of statue making that emitted from her delicate body, but the many colors of paint. She had scarlet red smudges on her hands, yellow hues on her face, and ghostly white on her smock. It was relieving that they had dried up already or his robe would have been soiled when she embraced him.

"My husband," She said with enthusiasm "You must come and view my latest creation!"

She made many wondrous creations and no matter how many she made he never did tire of seeing them. Benevolence was the greatest artist in all of New Transcendence, at least in Conservation's opinion. To him, she was the ideal San 'Shyuum female, beautiful, talented, and loyal. That loyalty also extended to the Hierarch, the one San 'Shyuum that he hated with a fiery passion. Conservation knew all to well she would never accept his revolution, so he had one last thing to do.

Before that, he had to see this creation she prepared today. The painting was a magnificent work of art, a portrait that captured all the ideal attributes as San 'Shyuum society. The painting was of her, it shone just as beautifully as her in the flesh. Her smile expressed pride in her work and Conservation couldn't blame her.

"Do you love it my dear?" she asked "I made this for you to display to your fellow Ministers in your sanctum to show how my love of you."

Conservation smiled and expressed his gratitude with an embrace of his own. As Benevolence hovered away, Conservation reached into his robe, pulled out a plasma pistol and fired towards her head. Her death would be quick and painless at the hands of the plasma weapon as the heated energy burrowed in her skull and singed her brain. She looked delicate as her body slumped to the floor and a look of shock ran across her stiff face.

"It had to be done my dear," Conservation said coldly "You would have never followed me along my path and I had to spare you of your imminent grief."

With that, he stowed the weapon in a hidden place and put her body in their home's furnace. The body burned away while Conservation watched the entire process. Her disappearance wouldn't be hard falsify, pro-Hierarch supporters upon hearing of the revolution would naturally come to his home and kill her anyway. They could be blamed either guilty or not, it mattered not in this case. When the last trace of her vanished forever, he bowed his head and went back up to the general living area. He stopped by the painting and stared at the haunting gaze of Benevolence. He deserved it, but it wouldn't bother him for much longer as he rested his mind once again in slumber.

  • 01.07.2010 1:55 PM PDT
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Part VI: Revolution

At long last, the day had arrived the day of Conservation's end game. He could see the crowd of Stagnant citizens assembling at the gates of the Important's section of the city. Behind the gate were the Honor Guards, the most skilled San 'Shyuum warriors who were in servitude to the Hierarch. The fool placed them there to watch over the Stagnants instead of guarding him in the Chamber of Law and Order. Did he not care about his own safety inside of the Chamber? Conservation was not his only enemy in New Transcendence, some of the other Ministers despised him, but had neither the wit nor ability to kill him.

All Conservation could do was make his way back to the Chamber, awaiting the people to grow a spine and rise up against the Hierarch. For the occasion, Conservation dressed himself in flowing red robes of crimson, symbolic to the blood that would be inevitably spilled to create a new order. Once inside the Chamber, he sat himself at his section. Almost right on cue, the Hierarch appeared in all of his so-called glory. He seemed to be less godly today, his frailty was much more apparent and he constantly twitched as if anticipating to be assassinated like Order had. With much hesitation he managed to eek out some words.

"Does anyone haveany business to discuss?" the Hierarch asked.

With a grim smile, Conservation rose like a undead vision and rose his hand in the air. The Hierarch acknowledged the gesture and signaled Minister to step forward. Conservation hovered to the podium, that was just to the left of the Hierarch, and presented his speech.

"My fellow Ministers and noble Hierarch, Conservation proclaimed while taking a brief second to look at the nervous wreak that was the Hierarch "A crowd has gathered at our gates and is demanding increases in their ways of life that have yet to be delivered upon."

The Hierarch interrupted Conservation by saying "Minister, you know we are doing our best to help the Stagnant citizenry with all the available technology at hand."

"How do you manage to lie with such obvious discriminating facial features ravaging through your voice and face?" ask Conservation "Do not attempt to justify your laziness."

The Hierarch became furious, but ancient San 'Shyuum law said speakers must finish their entire statement before the Hierarch at the time can make judgments. Conservation composed himself again and returned to his grand speech.

"As I was saying," Conservation said "The Stagnant's desire a better way of life. I have the cause of their troubles and it is the after mentioned stagnation of the Hierarch! He has dragged our society down to the dredges of darkness. Not since the years before our discovery of interstellar travel have we been in such disrepair in our society and technology. The Forerunner artifacts our species found fueled our scientific revolution and improved the lives of all San 'Shyuum. Yet, once our Hierarch came to power, the problems started. Funding was cut from the expedition forces and procrastination set in and as a result has delayed major political decisions. It was because of this that The Rot was established long ago under our Hierarchs reign. He knowingly allowed all the ills that now choke our society to happen. Numerous time he was warned by us Ministers, myself included, that reform needed to occur. Look around you, it has yet to happen."

By now, the Hierarch was fuming at the Minister who dared to insinuate he was the sole reason the San 'Shyuum culture was in decline. He was so mad that he did not see waves of Ministers rise from their seats in agreement. Those who did not rise were becoming just as nervous as the Hierarch was. Outside, chants echoed louder and louder in harmony, a rebellious harmony. Suddenly, the masses of the Stagnant society burst through the Chamber like blood coursed through veins. Their movements were fluid as they crowded the Chamber. Conservation saw that some citizens were dressed in portions of the Honor Guard armor, obvious signs that the Honor Guards did not succeed. Swiftly, he took advantage of the situation and addressed the Stagnants.

"Those who do are not risen stand against you my brothers, eliminate them!" Conservation roared.

Quickly and efficiently, they complied to Conservation's demands. Bolts of plasma rocketed at the defiant Ministers while the Ministers who stood by Conservation blended into the crowd. Conservation craned his neck toward the Hierarch who now stood in sheer terror at the horrors he was seeing. Bodies were dropping and being slashed by the Stagnants and he had no protection. That was when he noticed Conservation pouncing on him. The gravity throne shifted from place to place as both Conservation and the Hierarch fought each other. Their struggle ended when Conservation pulled a dagger and slit the Hierarch's throat. In dramatic fashion, the Hierarch and Conservation crashed to the Chamber floor. The Hierarch lay dead as his blood stained the Conservations shroud and the pure white tiles of the Chamber. Conservation on the other hand secured the throne and the crown of the Hierarch for himself while positioning himself whre the Hierarch once stood. In a symbolic gesture, he placed the crown atop his head and issued a proclamation.

The old order has now been extinguished," he declared "And now my reign will begin, one that will improve the lives of all San 'Shyuum. From this point forward, you will no longer refer to me as Hierarch for the will of the gods has guided me to this moment. I shall be called Prophet, the Prophet of Conservation!"

His words were meet with thunderous applause from the loyal Ministers and Stagnants. Some stood and chanted his new title while many more dropped down and bowed. The Guard of Reason slowly walked towards him and kneeled along with the other Honor Guard armor laden Stagnants. The New Age of Reform had begun.

  • 01.08.2010 4:45 PM PDT
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Epilogue: Implications

Upon Conservation's rise to power, he promised change for the citizens of New Transcendence. However, he said the change would come from entering the Forerunner ship, now known as a Dreadnaught, and looking for special equipment that scans for more of the god's technology. Over time, he found support in the majority of Stagnant society as future generations were drawn away from the old beliefs. His opposition was the remnants of the old Stagnant society that still believed in the Dreadnaught's sacred status and many Important citizens. As the years passed the tension also increased until it climaxed into the San 'Shyuum Civil War.

The side that chose to enter the ship were known as the Reformers and included the Prophet of Conservation and his followers. Those who chose to stay behind were known as the Stoics. Before the war against the Sangheili, the San ''Shyuum Civil War was the bloodiest conflict that rocked the entire San 'Shyuum homeworld, which has yet to be discovered to this day. After leaving the world, the Prophet of Conservation became gravely ill and succumbed to an unknown disease. His followers performed a vigil in his honor aboard the know space bound craft in his honor. Before his death, he uttered a final proclamation for his loyal forces that became one of his most remembered phrases.

"My brothers keep this in mind as long as you live. The will of the gods is the most important factor in life and you are the instrument that they may use to accomplish their goals. Never forget that."

  • 01.08.2010 8:46 PM PDT
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It's all crazy, It's all false, It's all a dream, It's alright

Very good, It was very interesting the way you made the main character evil.

It's great having some backstorey on the San "Shyuum, but the ending could have been better.

  • 01.08.2010 9:52 PM PDT
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Posted by: everyone chill
Very good, It was very interesting the way you made the main character evil.

It's great having some backstorey on the San "Shyuum, but the ending could have been better.

See, nailing the ending was the hardest part. I had to get the events leading up to their Civil War, which is actually canon. Since Conservation's main goal was to get inside the Dreadnaught, I thought transitioning into that would be effective. If I ever go back and do this again, I may redo the ending.

  • 01.08.2010 10:00 PM PDT