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This topic has moved here: Subject: Dark Intent (Nine Parts. Story End.)
  • Subject: Dark Intent (Nine Parts. Story End.)
Subject: Dark Intent (Nine Parts. Story End.)

"Life to you stepson and everlasting glory. " Thifes World.

Richard was in the motor pool checking over his tank. Reach sun shined down on working crews to get things prepared for the Covy's arrival. His unit was the 182Nd marine armored division. Bravo Company, Third Battalion. His division had taken part in every heavy action during this war. They were assigned to Reach for R&R while helping train ODST's,Rangers and other special forces personal how to operate a Scorpion properly as well as protect the planet.

His company was assigned to the UNSC Special Warfare Center. It was one of a kind. It had realistic environments used for training. The Range was made up of three parts. Each part was huge 100 square miles each interconnecting to a varity of training area's.

The first two have mock ups of a Jungle with realistic command post with two Wraith tanks. It was authentic with real covenant weapons that are used in the field but non-lethal ammunition. A few towers even energy barriers. Also small human Frontier Town was here as well. Dense forest with a lake was the next environment. A bridge in the center connecting two large city looking structures. Mock ups of New Alexandria. The mountains had a cold weather center on the Range. Three airfields one of witch was a mock up of a civilian airport. Other structures doted the Range. From bunkers to a Mock Prison Complex. The Range had Training going on 24 hours a day. New combat vehicles were tested here often.

War had come to Reach so they were put on alert The Range shut down being used for defensible positions. This meaning they would be moving out soon. He looked over at the Special Warfare Center a moment. Its hexagonal black shape looked more like a mountain. It went over half a mile underground. It was pretty vast down there. sensor dishes, defensive A.A.A. batteries, S.A.M's and Gauss Cannons covering both air and land. The Gauss cannons were the same as those used in warthogs except these were cemented in then bolted into the ground surrounding the perimiter.


Major Cantrell approached the side of his tank looking up at Richard. " You Lieutenant Hues ?" He nodded clambering off the tank to stand next Major Cantrell who held a touch screen portable computer. Every military unit has paperwork. He nod ed to the Major who looked grim. " Says here you lost Captain Gomez in a action in the mountains. you are currently down three tanks." Richard met the man in the TOC early er reporting to the base commander. Touching the screen Major Cantrell then turned to Richard shaking his hand. " He was a good man i knew him." Richard felt numb inside but he had to keep that in while out on the field. Major walked over to the next tank. Talking with the sergeant commanding it.

They would be heading out here shortly. To dig in then wait for the Covy's to come. Most tank units operated in lances. Four tanks to each lance. Three lances make a company. Three To four companies make a battalion. Constant warfare had reduced this number. Third Battalion got wiped out during a counter attack when the covey. There version of nukes. Plasma Bombs dropped from orbit. First Battalion was off protecting a UNSC main space port. The rest of 2ND Battalion were off protecting high value military targets.

They had a army tank company helping but they were on the other side of the base to cover that approach. They were all pretty green but Richard hoped deep inside they all made it out alive. Tanks were like the Spartans of old. Line abreast shining in the sun engaging in battle.

He had seen every action since Harvest. Richard was eighteen when he enlisted. He was sent to UNSC Ft. Lejeune on earth for training. Then after Basic he was assigned to Reach for further training in his MOS. He remembered the day they were attacked. How eager they were all to go to war. Now looking back the Gunny was right he said "War is not pretty, look around some of you might not make it back. Trust the man beside you so you can make it out alive."

Richard sat down inside the Scorpions cockpit letting the hatch slide into place. A young corporal hoped in the turret up front. He put on a headset switching the com to the company push channel." All units this is Bravo four mount up." The darkened exterior was lit up by instrument panels." All units report to tanks or vehicles. We will be moving out shortly." So many he had served with died. Some were hero's others trying to make it out of the war alive. Other tanks engines came to life one at a time. The rumbling of nine Scorpions shook the very ground they were on. Three warthogs lead the way out of the motor pool. He could see it on the gun camera. Motor pool doors opened. His tank went first rumbling out fallowed by nine more. He looked down at the tactical display then to the gun camera looking about for possible enemies.
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So many new faces in his company he did not get the time to know them all.He felt bad because he might not know them if they were killed. They headed down to where the forest lake is to take up defensive positions there. Army Corps Of Engineers had been busy making tank positions for them. They were now placing Anti-personnel mines down as he drove up to the defensive emplacements. The emplacements were sandbagged then dug to where the tank was hull down. Richard carefully drove his tank into the emplacement.

Two companies of troops were guarding this area as well. They were happy to see the tanks rolling in to support them.. Now they must wait for the enemy. He looked at a picture that was in a digital frame. His sister whom he was close with. Her navy uniform was pristine as was the smile she gave. He took a chip from his pocket that held a journal of what he had done during the war. It also contained a letter to be sent to her in case of his death. He sat alone peaceful thinking of long ago.

[Edited on 10.03.2011 12:49 PM PDT]

  • 09.01.2011 11:52 AM PDT
Subject: Dark Intent

The tide is turning, brothers! Let us take our kingdom back!

Very nice. The Scorpion repairs spoke to my inner mechanic, and gave me a new look on that sort of work in the UNSC.

More!

  • 09.01.2011 8:28 PM PDT

"Life to you stepson and everlasting glory. " Thifes World.

Thanks my inspertation is a guy who wrote Hammers Slammers David Drake. Since tanks seem to be left out of HALO i figured i would give them some character. I hope it speaks to more people. I am glad it did so to you i humbly thank you. My refrences go back in time to some cool wargames like Battle Tech and Centerion from the now Defunt FASA. More story to come even a new Scorpion. Thank you for reading.

  • 09.02.2011 7:49 AM PDT
Subject: Dark Intent (Nine Parts. Story End.)

"Life to you stepson and everlasting glory. " Thifes World.

Richard waited for the Covy's to arrive and they did two hours later. The scout force they sent was three Banshee's, Six Wraith's, Twelve Remnant's not to mention six more drop ships with a Wraith each including ground troops to support the other ground troops moving up with the armor. Several Ghost's were spotted as well around thirty or so. His Radio crackled to life. As the Covenant were getting ready to enter the perimeter." This is SWC Actual we have air support. Falcons will be assisting Bravo Four. Echo three will be getting the same support. We need time to evacuate, Orbital support is unavailable so we will vector in long swords for air strikes or additional support. Good Luck Gentlemen." light rain poured down.

Richard looked down at the control panel. Some think that a tank is just a cannon on wheels. The Scorpion is past that stage. It has a sophisticated electronics suite. Communications system as well. It has optics for operating at night. The interior looks almost like a fighter. Two joysticks, one on the right hand controls the turret. Second smaller one controls the steering its self. A throttle much like a fighter as well.It has cameras so you can look around the tank. Sophisticated laser designator. All to assist one person drive and fight.

For all appearances the Scorpion is a superior fighting machine to its counter parts in the 20Th century. It has two flaws one it is still prone to jamming. This has been alleviated by technology. It fires case less shells allowing for non jamming by 98%, yet a jam can happen in the loading mechanism. Two It runs on fuel still. Despite these flaws it is very feared by the Covenant. The 90mm cannon alone brings fear to even the bravest covenant forces.

Richard swiveled the turret to several Ghost's who were rushing there position. He stomped the fire pedal. 90mm cannon sent a shell to two Ghosts crewed by grunts. He had aimed in between them. The ghosts went flying with both grunts dead from the shrapnel and force of the explosion. salvos from other Scorpions decimated the Ghosts that had tried to rush them. Plasma fire announced the Wraiths backed up by Reveant. Ground troops rushed forward. The scout force was quickly decimated. Even the drop ships could do little dropping in more wraiths. Plasma fire arched across the man made lake.

Richard finished off a Wraith when a familiar sound could be heard crashing through the trees. A Scarab with twelve Wraiths fallowing. Double that for the Renovates. Seven Falcon's arrived with half a dozen warthogs to assist them. Small two man Strike teams with Mongoose's rode out onto the battlefield as well.

The Scarab snapped trees like twigs with each step. Richard called out" This is Bravo Four. All units Scarab repeat Scarab." His voice sounding a little too desperate. A Falcon went down from the rapid fire Anti-Aircraft plasma guns. The Ultra Heavy Cannon fired at one of his tanks. It melted like butter on a hot day then exploded from the blast. His comm crackled." This is Delta Five we need a air strike pronto. Coordinates Zulu Nine X-ray five. Attack direction west." A new voice sounding pleased. " This is Viper Flight we copy Delta Five we are in bound in two minutes." Scorpions fired at the Scarab. Its thick armor shrugged it all off. Pieces of armor fell to the ground from each hit." Bravo Four to all Bravos take out the Wraiths also." He Directed as he fired a round into the Scarab's legs. Swiveling to take out a wraith. A warthog blew up from a plasma hit 120 meters away. They had no chance to get away.

The Scarab destroyed another scorpion with its devastating Ultra Plasma Cannon. Long Swords appeared sending missiles into the Scarab they opened up with 50mm cannons as they dove in cutting the Covenant ground forces to pieces. Covey tanks exploded. Vehicles blew up as the Fighters flew off to get re-armed. The Scorpion took a number of missile hits yet it kept going. The Remaining Scorpions took aim as Richard directed them. " All Bravo units salvo on the Scarab." Each tank swiveled there cannons to the Scarab. "Fire!." He yelled hitting the foot pedal. The Scarab crashed to the ground. " All Bravo Units go hot repeat go hot." This was the signal to rush the enemy.

He drove his tank out of the defensive position firing at a Renvent who strayed too close it exploded in a blue/orange fireball. Wraiths Bombarded them. Seven tanks rolled forward into the teeth of the enemy. Falcons were dancing with banshees above. A Gauss warthog destroyed a Wraith with two well placed shots as he fired on another Wraith Who hit Bravo Four-Three. Anti-personnel mines went off as he rolled past them. His gunner fired the turret mounted machine gun cutting down Covy infantry who got to close. The second shot from his 90mm cannon stopped the Wraith cold.

His tank was suddenly enveloped in blue fire. His instrument panel exploded. His gunner was dead as he popped the hatch. He ran for it as his Scorpion exploded from two incoming Wraith Plasma Cannons. One of those Wraiths exploded. A Gauss Warthog engaged the second. Rockets Hit the second from a team on a Mongoose. It explodes as well. Warthog drives up. A Sergeant dressed as a elite airborne ranger pulls up to him. " Need a lift Marine ?" He nodded finally feeling a stinging on his face. Richard Felt his face. It was sticky with some blood on it. He limped over flopping in the passenger seat as the warthog drove back into friendly lines.
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A medic had seen to his wounds once he was dropped off at the aid station. Some burns on his left side of the face. His right arm was some what burned. Nurse Kelly tended to him in the Field. He found out her name when a Doctor handed her some medical supplies for his wounds. " Here Nurse Kelly." Using sprays with creams then some bandages. She took care of him in a tender way. Her Green eyes looking him over. " Well i patch you boys up but you like getting hurt." He smiled at her." Thank you Ma'am." Then a Lt Colonel strode up beside him. Looking at nurse Kelly." Is this man done ?" She nodded." Hes done." The Short Bird took him out to a waiting Warthog. Two M.P.s Dressed In black tactical gear waited for both of them to get into the passenger seats. Soon he was traveling to the Special Warfare Center. They arrived in a area that contained special vehicles for testing. They stopped in front of a Scorpion. A Scientist walked over. " Ah Lieutenant Colonel Vladimir. It is ready." Lt. Col. Vladimir exited the Warthog with Richard fallowing. " Good Lieutenant lets get you situated."

Richard could only gawk at the new Scorpion. He had not seen one since he shipped out as a private. Lt. Col. Vladimir smiled." This is a Gauss Scorpion. Its main cannon is a modified Gauss Cannon replacing the 90mm. We replaced the Turret mounted machine gun with a belt fed grenade launcher with a Armored shield to protect the gunner. Also on the front is a new Mini-Anti-infantry/Air .50 caliber Automated Turret. It has a more powerful engine than the regular scorpion. So you want to drive her ?" Vladimir gave Richard a grin showing off his baby. Richard stood looking at the machine in silence.

[Edited on 10.03.2011 12:58 PM PDT]

  • 09.02.2011 11:18 AM PDT
Subject: Dark Intent (Part one two & Three.)

"Life to you stepson and everlasting glory. " Thifes World.

The Battlecruiser Dark of Intent orbited Reach. General Har'rush Looked around the bridge. A few Unggoy were assiting his field commander, A fellow Sangheillan like him self. Two Kig-yar commanders were also looking over a Holographic plot of a planet called Reach. Har'rush entered walking over to the plot. Kig-yar pilots were attending to the ship. An disagreement broke out between the commanders.

His field commander pointed to the plot enhancing the area" The humans are evacuating this area. This place from what our intelligence suggests is a training grounds for the humans. Valuable data could be in there. I will lead a strike team into this place while our forces move up to engage them. Our Scarub failed to penetrate those defences. So i will need two Scarabs to do the same with a much larger force distracting them while we drop from orbit."

The white Unggoy both a little confused. " Cant we just blow it up.? " The other one nodded. " Yes i mean humans-" Then the two Kig-yar commanders spoke. In there native tongue. It translated.[Listen to the wise one. He is seeking information on Artifacts. His path is the great journey.]

Field Commander Lo'tar turned to greet the General." Sir. " Har'rush nodded to his field commander respectfully. " I have just got information that could change everything. The humans also have vehicles they have been working on at this place spotted by our scout forces hidden away. Find out what you can commander the rest of you will divert the humans attention as he drops in. Data on the enemy or on forerunner artifacts takes precedence. We cannot allow them to escape with that data." Har'rush had spoken. Silence fell then activity increase as the commanders departed to fulfill there duty.

Lo'tar exited the bridge to gather a strike team. He intended to get the data before the humans destroyed it or left with it. He gathered several Sangheili,Unggoy and Kig-yar to participate in the attack. Two pairs of Lekgolo would assist him. " Once we drop in Drop pods will drop you off while the main force is engaging them. The humans have air defences so dropping you in on top of them wont be possible. Get inside meet with me and my fellow Zealots. A Second team will drop in in pods behind us. They are Dark Sangheili. Try not to destroy anything looking valuable. We will have the engineers come in to extract any other valuable information. Those who understand human devices and there language are to search for information. Extracting it especially if it is secret. Let us go to battle." Meeting dismissed everyone prepared for the ground assault.

Lo'tar admired how his white armor was respected. He made his way to where the drop pods were kept. He passed through the cargo bay then in the back were the drop pods. His brothers from red, blue even black were all entering the drop pods. He did the same. The door closed ushering him into darkness. The pods shot down from space out of the battlecruisers belly. He could see the planet below. Sun rapidly was above him. He entered the atmosphere. He could see other pods below him descending. The heat built up around the pod but they were designed for atmospheric reentry.
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Lo'tar's pod hit the ground with several others. The Hatches blew open. They could see the Special Warfare Command Center. An Hexagonal fortress he spotted as he entered the atmosphere. Unoggy dropped in as well carrying Fuel Rod Guns. He exited the coffin as they were called. Dual Plasma Rifles in each hand he moved forward as his Cloaked brothers moved ahead to scout around. A pair of Lekgolo supported them being dropped in as well. He moved up in sight of the base seeing his scout element had penetrated the perimeter. Two of his Brothers in black armor stood over four dead humans. Apparently they were crewing some kind of dangerous weapon known as the Gauss cannon. A few shots could deplete his shields severely injuring him or worse.

The humans unaware the attack on the base was just a diversion. They waited on the second wave to arrive with the engineer that was forced into a drop pod. Second wave arrived from orbit rushing up to meet up with the others. Arriving the engineer floated over to the sealed armored door waving its pink pseudopods over it. Soon it opened. His Task force entered splitting up.

Lo'tar came around a corner listening hearing a pair of guards chat. Then popped out of the the hallway corner to throw a well placed plasma grenade on the ground. He ducked back as the explosion killed both of them. His team ran forward with reckless speed to the command center. This place was more vast then he had imagined. Finding the command center would be a challange he was more than qalified to do.

[Edited on 09.02.2011 5:47 PM PDT]

  • 09.02.2011 4:00 PM PDT
Subject: Dark Intent

The tide is turning, brothers! Let us take our kingdom back!

Very nice. I like the sound of a Gauss Scorpion. Oh, and the Scorpion interior too. You've certainly made me appreciate them far more than I did before.

  • 09.04.2011 12:09 AM PDT
Subject: Dark Intent (Part one and two)

"Life to you stepson and everlasting glory. " Thifes World.

Richard looked over the tank while Scientists showed him some of the new features of this Scorpion. First they found some ODST armor for him. After dressing they had him go over the new tank controls. He sat in the cockpit listening to the Lead Project Designer Dr. Marcelle, Who explained the new features to the tanker. After plugging in his helmet, he could see through the cameras targeting enemies or designating them for air strikes artillery.

An Advanced computer system designed much like a fighter would show a tactical display. It had ho lo panels with real buttons underneath if it lost power. As he got familiarized with the tank a female voice spoke to him. " Hello First Lieutenant Richard H. Hues. You were a private when you joined 2525. You are a Marksmen ranked fourth in the Battalion. You are ranked first as a Gunner/Crew Member in the Battalion. You have numerous medals. One UNSC Navy Cross. Two Silver Stars,Two Bronze Stars, One Legion of Merit. Harvest Liberation and Defence Service Medals. Age:43" Stated Everything Happily.

Dr. Marcelle smiled a bit pushing his glasses back on his nose. " Now don't scare him Athena. I'm sure the lieutenant has never had a tank talk to him before." He herd a female giggle. Turning to look at Richard. " We were testing a new computer system for this experimental Scorpion. We planed on using This system and Athena was designed to help us fix any software or other issues with the tank. The production model will feature an advanced computer system." Vladimir had been in the garage communicating the whole time with the defence forces. While Richard got familiarized with this Super Scorpion.

Warning klaxons went off a panicked voice came over the PA System. "Intruders have entered the Base. Repeat Covys have entered the base all personnel prepare for action." Vladimir Had a look of disgust on his face walked over quickly to Richard. " I have to Bord a falcon and leave here. Lieutenant i want you to Escort these experimental vehicles to the [i]Pillar of Steel.[i] in the main star port. The Rest of Bravo and Echo will join you. We are pulling out orders from UNSC command." The Lt. Col. Got on the com telling all units to" Head to Point Zulu."

Arrival of Coveys put a damper on things as Richard looked over to see six Grunts with Fuel Rod Cannons, Three Elites moved up and His helmet new optics could see some Hunters lurking back. there. The Scorpion was turning all ready its turret swung around as every one dove from plasma discharges. Heavy Green Plasma smashed into the Passenger Warthog it exploded sending shrapnel every where. The Mp's took cover firing at the Grunts with silenced SMG's. Cockpit closed around him. He could see that the Gauss cannon locked on. Two grunts exploded in a purple mist from one shot.
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Arson rolled out of the way of a human grenade when two Unggoy exploded with the garage wall having a huge hole in it. Chips bounced off his shield. He wore the Red of a Squad leader. His two Brothers fired at the humans who were shooting at them with determened looks.His unit frightened, they took cover behind vehicles or what ever they could find. " Hold fast. Lekgolo we need assistance." The pair rushed out firing there massive arm plasma cannons. The once frightened Ungoggy blasted with the Fuel Rod Cannons. Three went down from unseen shots before they could fire. The tank fired a shot blasting the Lekgolo each with one shot. His Sangheili brothers worked around the side ambushing the two humans dressed in black.

One fired a needle rifle making the human explode into two pieces. The other human yelled out fired his weapon depleting the shields of his blue dressed brother who rolled into cover.
The turret swung around firing on that Brother who died as the shell sent his arms and legs flying in all directions.. He felt bitterness as losing a warrior. He gathered his remaining unit waiting for his needle rifle brother to return. Then they with drew with two Unggoy. They would have to wait for reinforcements. Arshon contacted his superior.

  • 09.06.2011 3:26 PM PDT
Subject: Dark Intent (Part Five and Six )

"Life to you stepson and everlasting glory. " Thifes World.

Richard watched as the Covys fall back into the hallway. Athena's voice chimed in as he scanned the garage for survivor's." All clear Captain." The remaining MP spoke into his helmets com then nod-ed as Lt. Col. Vladimir holstered his side arm. Two of the science team were killed. Both had been hit with a needle rifle.

In 15 minutes reinforcements arrived to crew the other vehicles. Lt. Col. Vladimir had a Falcon pick him up with the science team once they had finished instructing the Troopers on each of the experimental vehicles. The surviving tanks from Bravo and Echo were quickly worked on as well down in the motor pool. Every one had evacuated while there was a lull in the fighting. Richard sat watching through his tanks cameras the activity going on.

This fighting had taken his toll on him. His soul had many scars that he carried both inside and out side of his body. He Wondered if the Covy's Just hated humans or there was other reasons why they pursued this war. He had heard many stories but the two most common are that they find us offensive to there religion or that we are to be destroyed for there leaders goals.

Regardless the stress of command is a great one. He felt tears wet his face as he wept for his fallen men. He had to keep a brave face on for his men so they would not be lost in the dark. He had fought so hard to keep so many alive but it seems futile. Like trying to hold back a dam of logs as you had taken one out yet they all tumble on you. Athena blinked into a small ho-lo-image near him. " Captain are you OK. ?" He only could nod.

" Sir i have a communications from Colonel Vladimir when you are ready to take it." After Clearing his throat he pulled his helmet up brushed his tears aside then cleared his throat. " Patch it through Athena." In a private channel he heard. " This is Range Control to Bravo Four. Do you copy.?" He queued up on the com panel. " This is Bravo Four Go Range Control. Athena has the Task Force escape coordinates. Just head to Sky Forge to board Pillar of Steel. It's 80 miles of enemy held Territory's. good luck. One last thing. Nothing gets left for the enemy. Range Control out."

An hour later they were heading out with three warthogs leading the way. one was a passenger model holding the mechanic's who volunteered to get the remaining Vehicles ready for action. One Hog was standard with a Vulcan Machine gun on it. while the last was a deadly Rocket Variety.

His Gauss Scorpion lead the experimental vehicles. Each was different tasked with different roles. One was a lightly armored tank that used what looked like to be a captured hover system from the Covys. Another one was mounted with anti-air armaments but still was able to use its 35mm guns to defend against ground threats. The last two were different in design. One looked to be some kind of six man troop transport with a newly designed 60mm rapid fire turret. The last was a fast armored strike vehicle that used a Gauss cannon and rockets like those on a warthog.

Each one still had new paint on the experimental vehicles. But that wont last long. As they exited the motor pool. Richard looked around one last time. SWFC had been good to many troops here on Reach. Too bad they had to blow it. The reactor would take time to reach critical mass then the Special Warfare Center would be no more. The last remaining Scorpions fell in behind Task Force Hues.

There was no one here now. The medical station he was treated at was a ghost town. Defences abandoned all over the Range. They would be the last to leave. Now his task was to get these units to there destination. They were heading to the Cold Weather Center. Another Hour later they passed in the tunnel that lead through " Blade Mountain." Nick Named by Range troops due to its shark fin like appearance.

There was a snow covered meadow then a forest up ahead that would lead them to the mountain pass leading away from the Range to Outpost Charlie 20 miles away. The Warthogs scouted the area signaling the all clear. Task Force Hues rumbled forward once again. All Hell Broke loose as the Covys sprung there trap.

[Edited on 09.26.2011 7:23 PM PDT]

  • 09.26.2011 12:57 PM PDT

The tide is turning, brothers! Let us take our kingdom back!

There's more experimental vehicles? Man, you're just making this story more and more to my liking.

  • 09.27.2011 12:52 AM PDT

"Life to you stepson and everlasting glory. " Thifes World.

General Har'rush looked at the Holographic display of the Disposition of his forces. Commander Lo'tar Had reached the Command Center of the Special Warfare Center. He was a Blue triangle on his display. Currently the General was waiting for word that they had the information he quietly listened to a conversation with one of his Commanders squad leaders. " Arson to Commander Lo'tar. We have several humans in a Vehicle Bay. We tried to take it but were unable due to some sort of new human tank. Should we pursue or wait for reinforcements to try again." Lo'tar spoke calmly to his subordinate. " No Fall Back as soon as we have the information we will exit. The humans have a tendency to leave bombs or such when they retreat."

The Generals Main Force would come up to defeat the human rabble ending this campaign. He had his infiltration team inside getting information. But what road would the humans take leading out of the base. This Convoy must be important enough to risk protecting it. He had to send a quarter of his force off to handle a threat to the north. Something about Demons or Imp's. Regardless If he could slow the human Convoy Down he could bring his Scarab's into play defeating the humans desperate gamble.

Two Exits looked the best escape routes. He noticed other units retreating into the mountain pass. He would send some drop ships to ferry in troops then return to wait with some Banshees to Ambush the Convoy when it left the base. The Human Convoy Left heading up towards the mountain pass. When it reached the mountain tunnel he got a desperate communications from Lo'tar" Sir we are leaving this base." Alarms sounded off in the background. " The Humans set the Bases Reactor on over load. We didnt realize what these Imps were doing. We had believed them to just guard the Control Center. We don't have much time. But we did not find the information we need it might be with that Convoy." Panting Could be heard from physical exertion. " Oh Gods-Tell my bond mate i love her-" An Explosion cut off Communication. Silence filled the channel till he touched a button turning it off.

General Har'rush looked around the Dark of Intent's bridge. His head drooped down. So many lost in this war. He respected the Humans. They Sacrificed so much but they were losing the war. His Orders have been to destroy any human colonies. To extinguish them from the face of the Galaxy. It has been a long war. Those that serve under him are eager to wage war. They do not understand the loss until much later.

Har'rush Remembered long ago how the Prophets said that these heretics should be destroyed. He remembered bowing in Reverance with many of his warrior brothers listening to the Prophets words that would inspire them to defeat these heretic's. He spent a lot of time on Harvest. A Bloody campaign that was costly for both sides. Success was eventually the Covenants due to there technology and numbers.

The Prisoners who they captured didnt understand why they waged this war. It was explained that the Humans perverted the Forerunners technology but he had the opinion that most humans knew little. He was demoted for speaking his opion on the matter. That this war was Costing his race too much. Convent should make peace with them give them the chance to join the Covenant. The Council and Prophets did not wish to listen so they demoted him and sent him off into battle.

All he could do now is watch to see if the Human convoy made it past his trap. General Har'rush watched the battle intently listening in to his troops communications.


[Edited on 09.27.2011 1:21 AM PDT]

  • 09.27.2011 1:13 AM PDT
Subject: Dark Intent (Part Seven)

"Life to you stepson and everlasting glory. " Thifes World.

Richard watched as the Covenant spring up out of the snow like ninja or bandits who buried themselves. Other Covy units hiding in the trees moved forwards with Fuel Rod Guns. The lead warthog never had a chance as it fired its 12.7mm Vulcan Cannon. It was like everything was in slow motion. Plasma fire criss crossed the Warthog hitting it several times. Finally a fuel rod gun stopped its brief rampage. The Hog blew when it did crews shielded there eyes or in his case the tanks cameras went dark for a few moments. The Hogs crew never had a chance to escape.

Richard needed information to handle this. "Athena i need-". Athena sprung to life with a spear and toga. " Captain. It looks like a ambush but this is to slow us down. Ive detected a large force moving to intercept us. Ghosts are right now racing towards us from this large force."

Richard swallowed hard making his next decision even harder. " Open a Channel " He fired his Gauss cannon at a Hunter the shell snapped trees and shattered its armor in one hit. " Bravo Four to Task Force. We have to push through. If you are disabled no rescue will be possible. A Covy force is moving up behind us. If a experimental vehicle is disabled you are to destroy it. Lets make it to that mountain pass."

They fired at every Covy that moved. His automated gun fired at several enemy units as his Gauss cannon swivel onto high risk threats. Six Banshees Swooped out from the air along with drop ships that were landing more troops. Four Wraiths stood in there way to freedom. The Rocket Hog fired its 25 mm rockets ahead of him devastating the Covys unshielded members. Grunts Jackals even a few Elites blasted at them as they passed.

Twin Radar guided 35mm cannons blew two Banshees out of the air. The Experimental anti-air platform fired missiles as well but the maneuverability of the Banshees made this difficult to hit. As X-Ray Three-Three was busy with taking down another Banshee, A Grunt carrying a Plasma Launcher fired four balls of blue death that stuck to the side of the tank. It was crippled engulf to allow several convent units to fire on it destroying it before the crew had a chance to bail out. Five Scorpions avenged the fallen blowing trees and Covys with 90mm shells to pieces.

Two Banshees crippled one Scorpion with luck, plasma blasts to the treads. Task Force Hues Rumbled onward knowing that stopping would mean certain death. The Scorpion fell behind quickly but its main gun could be heard firing. " This is Echo two four. Ive lost my gunner." Sound of a 90mm gun firing. "I can hear the Covys outside my tank. Balm they are cutting through. Get off of- " The mic cuts off as Richard feels bad but he has other things to worry about like making it to the pass.

They fought there way to the pass. Wraiths tanks did not stand up to Task Force Hues guns. The Banshees made harassing attempts to slow them down but were shot down one at a time. The last one taken down by his own automated defence gun. Crashed into a Ridge nearly sending down a Avalanche on top of there heads. Enemy units gave chase on foot. " Bravo Four-two don't fire until we are clear of the pass" he radioed to the Scorpion trailing behind. Panic in the voice. " Sorry sir i have to fire." The 90mm shell killed some of the Covys instantly but an avalanche came crashing down on top of the Scorpion. Enemy forces were instantly buried in twelve feet of snow.

Bravo Four-two had got lucky since they were at the tail end of the Avalanche. The tank was half buried in ice and snow. They were able to recover the crew. Then Rezumed moving down the pass. Athena gave him estimates that the Covy's would have the pass cleared in six hours. An hour later they were clear of the pass heading into a lush forest. They were traveling on a road soon Outpost Charlie would come into view.

A Recon Drone Flew overhead transmitting. This usually meant some kind of change in the mission plan. Athena selected a small rest stop area. It was situated on a large piece of rock that overlooked a scenic view. Richard passed this way often heading up to the Range in the past. It was a spectacular sight. With a Lake below. Three water falls fed the lake making it a interesting sight.

Athena got some sort of update from the recon drone that flew off once it deliverd its data packet. Athena sifted through the information as Richard looked out at the lake. Her voice was neutral but it sounded worried. " Captain Ive analyzed the data from this drone." Tactical display showing them then outpost charlie. " Our route has been compromised. Outpost Charlie was destroyed while we were preparing to leave the Special Warfare Center. Our new orders are to head along this route that will lessen contact with the Convent."

"Unfortunately there is only one Bridge that can get our units across. It has been badly damaged in the fighting. A Engineering unit is fixing it as we speak. Estimates are four to five hours but there is another complication as well. Covy units are harassing the Engineers making it difficult. " Tactical display fallows the new route highlighting the bridge.

Richard took off his helmet. His face kinda itched from those burns but he stroked his chin a few times. " Athena lets hope they have it fixed when we get there because i'm going across even if i have to walk if need be." Ten minutes later Task Force Hues moved out. This time Ritchard would not scarafice human lives. That tanker he left behind haunted his every thought.





[Edited on 09.27.2011 12:48 PM PDT]

  • 09.27.2011 6:54 AM PDT

The tide is turning, brothers! Let us take our kingdom back!

Very awesome. An emotional couple of chapters right there, for both sides.

  • 09.27.2011 10:33 PM PDT

only the best game ever.
~Sur Squishy
XBL: D a r k s t a r
PSN: darkstarrr
Minecraft: The_Dark_Star

Forum Rules | Terms of Use | Code of Conduct

I saw the first paragraph, scrolled down a little bit, and I did not even bother to read a single word.

  • 09.29.2011 4:53 PM PDT

Good work. However you should work on your grammar and punctuation, it would improve the feel of your story a lot more.

  • 10.01.2011 4:16 AM PDT
Subject: Dark Intent (Nine Parts. Story End.)

"Life to you stepson and everlasting glory. " Thifes World.

Task Force Hues arrived just a half a mile from the bridge with out incident two hours later. Captain Richard Hues had much to think on during the trip. Athena tried to lighten the mood with a few dirty jokes or Anecdotes. Yet Richard agonized over every loss during this war starting with the more recent. His memories were filled with many men and women he served with over the years that gave the ultimate sacrifice so others can live. Was he a outdated relic in this war ? Or was he a survivor living with the guilt that wracked him constantly. Answers were not forthcoming.

He knew that the Convent won't give up easily. Athena gave him tactical updates on the status of the bridge on his displays. Her voice sounded sad as she spoke. " The engineers are having difficulty working on it due to two Convent bombarding them. Combat teams are trying to suppress the Convent but they are taking losses to snipers and Renovates." His tactical displays changed as a recon drone flew over on his Topographical map over the bridge before getting shot down.

" I am detecting two large objects approaching from behind us. possibly Scarabs Captain. Also the enemy has Banshees engaging our air cover for the Engineers. Situation is desperate. Estimates for for the Scarabs are two hours behind us. This does not give us much time to suppress the enemy. I am marking targets as we approach Captain." Athena highlighted targets on the cameras as red boxes.

They were in visual range of the bridge. Richard keyed up the com. " Bravo Four to all units. Combat units are to fallow my lead. X-Ray units are to stay out of sight. until we have suppressed enemy forces so we can cross the bridge. He could see several Falcon Gunships engaging Banshees over head. A Pelican sat on his side of a bridge serving as supply point for the Engineers. Engineers were hanging off the underside of the bridge wearing harnesses setting charges or trying to reinforce the support structure.

Richard could see the remains of two Warthogs burning on the bridge. Four Reinvents wreathed the bridge with plasma bombardments attempting to hit a Engineer. Jackals could be seen trying to snipe the engineers behind cover of other Jackals with shields. Return fire from UNSC Troopers covering the engineers was swift. That was all about to change. He centered his Gauss cannon on a Reinvent. It exploded killing the two Elites crewing it. His tanks fired there shells destroying all but one Renovate.

Both Warthogs raced ahead one firing salvos of rockets blasting Jackals to what ever hell they believed in. More heavy fire drove back remaining Convent forces or they were blown to pieces by his task forces heavy guns. They approached the Pelican when a sergeant approached the side of his tank. Task Forces Hues remaining vehicles moved forward to cover the Pelican. Banshees retreated as well leaving the skies clear for now. Falcons landed near the pelican to conserve fuel.

Popping the hatch he watched the young trooper climb on his tank. " Sir i am glad you showed up when you did. Those Covy's dropped in a light force to deal with us. Right now the engineers are fixing the bridge to get you across." waving a hand at the bridge with dead bodies on it. " You have two hours to get it ready because two Scarabs are right behind us." Richard nodded at the sergeant. Who hoped down off the tank now to speak with his men.

It was a long wait yet Richard had much to do. He sat down in the tanks soft seat with the hatch open letting fresh air in the cockpit. First of all he had suspected the Covys were chasing him for a very good reason. Asking Athena about it she evaded his questions. " Why are the Convent trying to stop us. ? " Her imaged shrugged. " They are using allot of resources to stop us sir." He got angry. " Don't play me Athena, you are not telling me something." He stabbed a finger at her with his good hand.

" Captain i have sensitive information that needs to get back to Command." He shook his head in disbelief." So were expendable.? Those Covys are going to be on us before we get across the Bridge. This information must be Classified above top secret. So I'm initiating Protocol Zero. Tell me what kind of information you have."

Athena Hesitated. " I need a password to Initiate Protocol Zero." Captain Hues said it aloud. " Delta three Zulu nine six six." Athena's tone went flat." Accessing Data." Then her tone went back to normal. " Sensitive information on Special Warfare Command. Training, Operations. R & D, Medical Files, Troops on Deployments and Combat Operations. Per Protocol Zero mandates i am to ready my self for extraction. Before i do, you have access to an air strike. The systems here will give updates."

Captain Hues took the A.I. chip out of his tank. Climbing off the Gauss Scorpion he looked up at the late afternoon sun with a sigh. Then walked over to the Sergeant he spoke with before.
" I want you to get this A.I. to the Pillar of Steel. Fly directly to it once the engineers evac with you. We don't have much time get my men across. Get those engineers out of there have them get those experimental vehicles before we try the tanks. You have till the Convent show up to blast us to hell."

In a short time with the Engineers help, most of his forces were across. Scorpions waited the go ahead. Engineer signaled a Scorpion to move foward. The first one went across slow as made it with out any problems yet the bridge groaned. As the Second one moved across the Convent showed up in Drop Ships. Three Banshees banked in firing deadly plasma bolts. One struck a Falcon on the ground. Two fired at the Scorpion blowing it to pieces. Soldiers piled into the Pelican as the second Falcon lifted off engaging Banshees.

It seems the Bridge had enuff abuse. Metal twisted as support beams fell fifty feet into the river below leaving a fifteen foot gap in the middle. too large for a Scorpion to jump. The Pelican VTOL jets lifted it off the ground as Richard fired shots at the Banshees giving it time to take off before the Covies decided to blow that up also. He opened a Channel. " Bravo Four to Task Force Hues keep going. Don't stop for anything. Blow the bridge soonest." Both Scarabs arrived as Task Force Hues moved off heading to the ship. Richard had been waiting in his tank for this moment. " Sir We cant blow it i think some how the demo got disconnected when the bridge fell."

He changed channels to those reserved for air strikes. " This is Bravo Four to whom ever is squawking on this channel i need an Air Strike now." Few seconds past as he fired at the Scarab His Gauss shell blew a hole in the leg armor. One Fired at him with the Ultra Heavy Plasma Cannon. His tanks armor melted like hot wax. His panels exploded. Popping the hatch he ran for it as both Scarabs blasted his tank. He fell from the explosion. " Bravo Four we need coordinates." He painfully rolled over as the Scarab's were moving past. " Dammit.! Echo five Zulu X-ray niner." Repeating what his Scorpion's read outs had shown before its destruction.

As Each Scarab was making it across the Bridge four Long Swords fired on them with both guns and missiles collapsing the bridge, Sending both Scarubs tumbling down fifty feet into a river. All Richard could do was lay there watching. As the air strike flew off in the distance. He lay there a long time watching the Covenant fly over head before being surrounded by Covenant troops. One Elite in Golden Armor approached him. He was able to tug off his helmet. " Finish it." He closed his eyes clutching his sister picture. Yet no death blow came. He was taken prisoner by this Golden Elite.

He was luckily able to walk to the waiting drop ship that would ferry him to The Dark of Intent. They interrogated him for information. He learned that they failed in stopping his Convoy. Also that Pillar of Steel made it off planet. Some unfathamable reason the Golden Elite would come to stare at him in his cell, once a day for a hour then depart.

He was proud of what he accomplished. Saving his unit from utter destruction. Why he was still alive was a mystery. Perhaps the Elite had seen what he had seen. He could tell that this one was different some how. A Veteran for sure from the look in his eye. Yet the only thing that bothered him was that was he a Survivor or a Victim of this conflict.? Probly both. Apparently the scars of war run deep in both races. Perhaps the Elites are not as infallable as most belived they are. Wracked by the guilt of being alive yet scared with the memories that will last a lifetime.





[Edited on 10.04.2011 3:08 PM PDT]

  • 10.02.2011 5:21 PM PDT
Subject: Dark Intent (Part 8 & 9 The End.)

"Life to you stepson and everlasting glory. " Thifes World.

Har'rush stood looking out at the Reach system from a veiw screen on board the Dark Intent. It was a spectacular sight. Two Corvette class ships would be joining his to chase after Pillar of Steel who jumped away with the secrets needed to end this war.

Humans believe they were clever using that convoy as bait. Had his scouts not gotten lucky his main force would have been counter attacked. It was Fortunate his forces went around that mountain pass. Sending the Scarabs ahead to give chase kept that pressure up. He suspected this was a ploy but had no real proof until they found a hidden base accidently underground.

Had he gone after that convoy his forces would have suffered unacceptable losses in a counter attack. He personally lead that mission to take the base. After the battle he resumed his hunt of that convoy to find a curious thing. One human who survived. He took this human personally to his ship to be interrogated. His taking of the prisoner was out of respect. He was on his way with a force to destroy or capture them. He monitored every thing on the battle net.

He lost good troops who died trying to stop a crafty foe from escaping with valuable intelligence. All most a failure on his part due to what is called a " Wild Goose Chase" by humans partly becuse. Had he not been suspicious this would have turned out much different. With his campaign finished now his orders were to pursue the human ship and retrieve that information.

General Har'rush was waiting on his ground side forces to board so they could depart. Time was of the essence yet his mind turned to that human called Captain Richard Hues. Most did not realize that he kept this human around to remind him of his near failure. Had that scout force not stumbled into that base things would had been diffrent. In a way he admired this human who seemed to care about his troops as he did. What greater sacrifice is there than to give up ones life so those who serve under you can live. His true motive is to pump information out of this human. It would take several interrogations to get it out. This humans fate would be tied to his. Something he had to consider even if he did not like it.

He would go down to watch this human for a bit silently trying to discern anything. It served as a reminder of how ones arrogance can lead to some ones downfall. Yet this human had a much larger role to play. Will the sacrifice be worth it.? What are the humans hiding ? One thing is for certain Reach has been taken. Humans had pockets of resistance but nothing the fleet cant handle.

One of his Commanders he had not got the name of yet looked over at him from his console. " General Har'rush all of our forces are off planet. Our Drop Ships have docked we may leave at any time."

General Har'rush switched his plot to the burning world of Reach. " Let us leave this place. I want you to triple check the coordinates on that human ship that jumped away." He spoke aloud to the entire bridge but was specifically taking to his Helmsmen. " Open a channel to our small force. Let my voice be heard by our god's will." As one of his Fellow Sangheili did so The General spoke with passion." Our mission is to find that human ship. It's has important information that will guarantee us Victory. Three other ships will fallow once they are done here."

A Prophet's face showed up on his screen." Show these Heretics they cannot escape. Our gods demand they surrender all they are to certain destruction. We will peruse them across the Galaxy to this end. Gain us the tool we need to destroy any Heretic world left." The Prophet's face disappeared off his screen's. Har'rush was surprised as the rest of them yet that might be the High Cleric but was unsure. Robes were different that most Prophet's. " Sir we are ready to jump." His helmsmen spoke over the shoulder at him. " Jump us then. All Convent are to report to battle stations before we do."

Har'rush did not need the Prophets telling him his job. He respected the gods yet they seem to be at odds with him. It might be that he was Disobedient at times that frustrated both the Council and Prophets who sit at High Charity sacrificing or throwing lives away foolishly. He had built up a resentment to this. Yet his soldiers would die for him because he did care to see that they had the best chance to live. It was a Honorable way to live. One that was both difficult yet demanding. He had learned from the humans a important lesson that few took to heart in the Covenant. Value those around you for you might need them later.

Yet for him this thinking was outside the norm for his Brothers. Perhaps he is tired of war or that he values his troops instead of sending them to there needless deaths.
In any case he was tied to his duty. Yet he knew deep inside that he had become a monster. That they were being used like tools to destroy the humans. War changed him from the noble young Sangheili he was before to one who burns entire planets killing civilians. Harvest taught him that he had to be Ruthless to survive. This was a change he did not welcome. He still disliked it every time he was sent on a cleansing mission. When the time comes he will regain what he had lost. Even if he had to defy the entire Covenant to do it.

" Jumping now" His helmsmen called out to all of the ship. Har'rush braced for the jump. Answers seem to be out there he hoped to find. Answers to his guilt, to all he had done.Dark of Intent Jumped leaving Reach behind fallowing Pillar of Steel Hyperspace wake. As one journey ends another begins.


[Edited on 10.03.2011 3:39 AM PDT]

  • 10.03.2011 3:06 AM PDT

"Life to you stepson and everlasting glory. " Thifes World.

Authors Notes: Thank you for reading. I will go back edit etc etc. I hope you have enjoyed this story. I wanted to show different sides of the Conflict. UNSC trying to desperately find new ways to fight the war while the Convent wage it with a single minded determination. Yet both sides have lost much in this war. I wanted to reflect that. Showing both sides have taken great losses yet are more alike than either side could imagine. Also the UNSC this late in the war would be scroungeing what they could to meet the Covenet millitary machine in battle. Also i wanted to show that each soldier has issues even non-humans.

[Edited on 10.03.2011 3:52 AM PDT]

  • 10.03.2011 3:47 AM PDT

The tide is turning, brothers! Let us take our kingdom back!

I believe you showed those things wonderfully, Tempu. Wonderful story. I enjoyed your take on the Halo universe.

  • 10.03.2011 5:28 AM PDT

I really enjoy how you show the conflicting sides. While the mistakes might decrease the overall effect, once you polish everything up I'm sure it'll go together quite nicely. Good work with this, hope you have more ready for us Bungie dwellers!

  • 10.03.2011 6:05 AM PDT

"I will show you how a true Prussian officer fights!"

"And i will show you where the iron crosses grow..."

- "Cross of Iron"

Great story i enjoyed it!

  • 10.04.2011 6:18 AM PDT

"Life to you stepson and everlasting glory. " Thifes World.

Well I am thinking over makeing a Part Two or Second story if you will. It will cover more. Perhaps later after i hammer out a few more storys.

  • 10.04.2011 3:02 PM PDT

Have you ever considered joining a fan fic group?

  • 10.05.2011 4:36 PM PDT

"Life to you stepson and everlasting glory. " Thifes World.

Look For Dark of Intent II Soon. * Hits Nos Button on Warthog driving out into space from the Pillar of Autumn

  • 11.25.2011 2:47 PM PDT