- Georgek_16
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- Exalted Legendary Member
Authors Note: Unlike many Halo fanfics, I have chosen to write a story based entirely around the Covenant. From war to religion, this alliance of alien species provides amazing material for a dramatic story. This is to be one of my first true fanfic series, so any constructive criticism is appreciated.
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Prologue:
Sanctum of the Hierarch
Covenant Holy City, High Charity
Ninth Age of Reclamation
The inner hall was designed to intimidate, and it was fulfilling its purpose. The vaulted ceiling seemed to stretch into the heavens, as though it sought to forge a connection between this world and the next. From it hung a row of standards that depicted an unknown San 'Shyuum guiding the Covenant along the path of ascension. Above the far door was displayed the largest of these banners, adorned simply by the image of a prophets crown. Flanking either side of the elegant walkway were lines of Sangheili honour guards. Light from above reflected off their dull blades, bathing the room in schisms of white light. At the end of the walkway was an ornately decorated door. Unbeknown to most, its decoration was merely a façade. In truth, it was constructed of the same polymer material used for the hull of Covenant flagships.
The Prophet of Regret had been here may times, so he paid little heed as he passed now. As he neared the far door, a Sangheili in ceremonial dress appeared from the shadows. In well rehearsed fashion, the doorman bowed his head and removed a rectangular crystal from his robes. From within his own robes, Regret produced a similar crystal. Taking both objects in his hands, the doorman inserted them into a panel beside the door. After several moments, a mechanical rumble echoed throughout the hall. Despite its immense size and weight, the door parted seamlessly. Regret showed little care for any of this. Knowing that the crystal would be returned to him upon leaving, the Prophet ventured purposefully beyond the threshold and into the chamber beyond.
In contrast to the hall outside, this room was bathed in a gentle light. It came from small holes, recessed into the walls and floor. Regret had always considered this to give the chamber the illusion of a thin mist. In the centre of this 'mist' rose a large table. On it was a thin screen and several other items unworthy of note. Although three of the walls were bare, the fourth was comprised of a large window; which looked out over the Dreadnaught relic and the lower wards of High Charity. To those uninitiated, it gave the impression of a ruler observing the breadth of their empire. Of course, it really was a means by which the Hierarchs could observe and monitor the stability of the Covenant. It also inspired them to imagine and dream of the future.
Regret saw a figure standing by the window. Not until he came level with the table did the figure acknowledge his presence. He did so by turning suddenly from his vigil by the window. Whether by chance or design, the figure turned just as the door to the chamber slid silently closed.
"I am pleased to see you acknowledged my summons with such haste, brother." The Prophet of Truth spoke in a calculated tone. In response, Regret dismounted his throne and advanced towards his fellow San 'Shyuum. Though they did not embrace or make any contact, they stood evaluating one another for several moments. This was common practice when their species were in private. Eventually, Regret spoke.
"Indeed I have come, although the urgency of your tone would have made refusal a crime. Yet I trust that you would not have me hindered unnecessarily." As he spoke, Regret gave great care to the words he used. He did not desire to begin a joust of words with Truth; which all too often led to bitter descent between Hierarchs. Such action could only be counterproductive to the aspirations of the Covenant.
"Do not fear, brother. I shall not stay you for long. In fact, my words may well entice you to remain for longer; but we shall see." With these words, Truth walked to the table and activated the screen. The holographic image of a Sangheili in council garment appeared. Regret immediately recognised what he was seeing. After a moment, Truth continued.
"As you are undoubtedly aware Regret, we are nearing the start of the Great Journey. Soon we shall have the means to guide the rest of the believers along the righteous path to ultimate salvation. United, the Hierarchs shall fulfil the promise made many cycles ago. There shall be one final chance for those who serve the Gods to transcend this world. All that now remains is for the ancients to reveal the start of the path, and grant the worthy visage to pass along it." Regret listened intently, pretending that he had not heard this speech uttered many times before. He had learned long ago that it was better to allow Truth his theological indulgences.
"Yet just as foretold by the prophecy, we must face great strife in the time of our ultimate victory. Despite our noble intent, there will always be those who rebuke the Covenant and the Gods. Eventually, they shall be destroyed by the eternal fire of the sacred rings. For now though, it is our duty to root out heresy and quench it. If we ignore such a task, then everything we have worked to build will fall. We must also remember that are enemies are not just outside the Covenant, but within it."
Regret knew (or guessed) the intention of his fellow Hierarch. Fleetingly he allowed his gaze to pass over the holographic Sangheili. The councilmen, for indeed he was one, had begun making commanding gestures. He presently waved his arms to emphasise a point. Yes, the Prophet of Regret was certain of Truths intentions. But could it be done? Throwing caution to the wind, Regret decided to adopt a less diplomatic stance. At the very least, he would be able to return sooner to his duties.
"Do not waste my time with that which I already know. You may surpass me with the experience of age, but I am still a Hierarch. I know of your desire. When you speak of heresy and betrayal, you speak of him. " As he spoke the word "him", Regret gestured towards the holographic display. In response, Truth said nothing. Instead he began to nod his had meticulously and smile. Though it suggested loyalty and divulgence, Regret knew this smile to be disarming. A cruiser passed overhead and momentarily interrupted light from High Charity's artificial sun. The room was cast into deep shadow; the only light coming from the holographic projection. When the ship moved on and light returned, Truth began to speak.