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  • Subject: Song of the Departed
Subject: Song of the Departed

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

Lieutenant Commander Victor Kressler was bound on a Pelican towards a old battleship of legend. It was the first of its class.

Jupiter loomed into view as he leaned over to get a glimpse of this behemoth of a vessel. Only two battleships have survived during the war. This was the first. He had served on her long ago.

Getting a glimpse of the vessel was breathtaking. This ship was in a space docking ring being worked on. Workers could be seen getting Jupiter refitted for service.

Victor watched as they docked inside his newly assigned ship. Pelicans cargo ramp descended into landing bay 12. He grabbed his duffel heading down to be greeted by a familiar face.

"Captain Andrews" Victor stepped forward shaking Andrews hand. Then saluted him with proper UNSC salute. Andrews smiled like a cherub.

"Good to see you Victor. I herd you disobeyed orders but got sent to prison for it even while saving the crew." Andrews had aged last time he had seen him.

" Thanks to you i am a free man." running a hand in his hair Victor noticed armed guards everywhere." Don't thank me yet. I will not lie to you. This is a suicide mission but it must be done. Fallow me." Anderson lead Victor to his cabin.

Entering Anderews cabin was like entering some ones apartment.
Victor took a seat while Andrews grabbed two glasses. Finding a bottle of Bourbon he poured for both of them.

Andrews sat down removing his service cap. Revealing snow white hair." Now, i know you are wondering why i got you out." Handing Victor a pad to read." You see i am a alcoholic. Not a bad Captain but my liver cant handle much more. They gave me this suicide mission to take on."

"It was that or die from liver failure in retirement. My career was good until i started hitting the bottle. Back when you were not a bad boy. We will have military prisoners who will get one shot. They do this they get a pardon. Are allowed to rejoin UNSC military." Andrews rubbed his neck.

Victor sipped his bourbon leaning back on a sofa." Why me.? You know i disobeyed orders. I am a good officer but i have my shortcomings. It was a no win situation but we did survive."

Andrews sighed " Look they made a example out of you. That Captain should have been aware it was a trap. Regardless you are here now after five years in prison."

Victor only shook his head slightly." Well i cant change the past but i will be X.O. for you. I will be honest it was nice to be in charge of just my self."

Andrews set down his glass." This mission is going to need all we can get behind it. This ship is being refitted for one last battle. We will be taking on Volunteers. Prisoners most likely."

Victor rubbed his eyes then looked over at Andrews." Captain i am with you all the way. If you went to hell i will fallow."

Andrews washed down his glass as Victor did the same." I will see you later. Get some rest we have allot of work to do." Victor exited Andrew's cabin with his duffel on a shoulder whistling a old sailor's tune.

[Edited on 04.27.2012 6:01 AM PDT]

  • 04.18.2012 12:09 PM PDT

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

Kressler spent the next few days watching over work crews as much of the ship was overhauled. Armed guards were on just about every deck.

It worried him not since he was here by choice. About the only eventful thing that happened was when some prisoners arrived. Security called him." Lieutenant Commander sir. We have a problem down here can you come down to talk to this prisoner.?"

Touching a ear bug." Yes. where ?".A Guard Replied" Hanger bay three sir." Fifteen minutes later he arrived at Hanger bay three seeing a group of prisoners who looked familiar.

"Hey there Chief." Smiling to the brown haired woman who had a frown on her face." Commander can i get these cuffs off. My people need to get to work on the engines right away." She raised her wrists.

"Sergeant what seems to be the problem ?" This M.P. looked at him then back to the Chief." I tried explaining to the Chief Petty Officer sir that we have to process her." " A Process that is going to take all day. I need my engineers back there finding out what needs done."

"Chief you never change. Sergeant if you don't know how to fix an engine or make sure that the workers are doing it right best to let her go for now but i expect you Chief Petty Officer Jasmine to report tomorrow to be processed. All of you."

As he turned away a line formed in front of the M.P.'s so they could be uncuffed."0800 tomorrow Chief." Smiling at the Sergeant." Crisis adverted. Let me know if anything changes"

Later on in the evening Kessler was on the observation deck after his shift was done. He was the X.O. so he had to be near a com unit in case he was needed.

From the observation deck he could see the space dock that held the Jupiteras it was being worked on. But he was looking out into space thinking of what Andrews spoke of a few days ago.

He also remembered the good old days on the Jupiter one of the Titan-class Battleships. It was old even when he served on her. Navy took her out of the line when it became apparent they were outmatched and overhauling the ship would be too expensive.

He was on her when they retired her finally in 2530. So she has been in Moth balls for the past fifteen years. He had good times then. UNSC was not scraping for more men in them days. It was a much different time. Not a ominous cloud of doom that was hanging over humanity's head.

A soft female voice that he remembered from long ago spoke." I knew you would be here Victor." At first he blinked thinking he had imagined it. Then a woman in a white UNSC navy uniform leaned on the railing looking out into space with him.

Apparently he had missed her approach him."Good to see you as well Brianna or should i call you Commander McCormick.? Now ?." She smiled at him."Brianna is fine. You have changed i see." Kessler shrugged." Prison does allot of things to a man. I have changed some but i think more about the consequences than i did five years ago."

Brianna leaned on the railing now facing him." Really ? well i had to move on with my career. It has been hard being alone since you. But it was too much for me to handle then. I understand now and am sorry i did not support you. I was assigned to the Admiral. Oh that's right you never met him but it was very demanding. Part of the reason why i am here."

Victor faced her." Yes well i will meet him probably since i am the X.O. on this one way ticket. Look i never meant for any of this to happen but the Captain froze on us when we got jumped by three ships. Then when he came out of it he tried to cover his ass. By that time the crew got conflicting orders so i did what i did. I had to do it to save all of us. It was mutiny but i know that if we would have stayed like the Captain wanted we would be dead. Hardest part was losing you."

"I was saving money for our own place before that happened. Before you leave i need to speak with you alone. I love you still. Perhaps you love me but if you don't i want you taken care of because you know this is a suicide mission."

Brianna looked sad"I still do love you but..it had been hard to not look in on you. I was almost reassigned for being emotionally involved. I had to see a therapist. I also know it was hard on you. I read every letter you sent. I tried for years to get you out and shake off any blacklisting."She broke down and cried. He reached out a hand to console her. Patting her shoulder.

" I know you did. I have every letter you wrote as well. Sometimes you can be right but wrong. UNSC did not want to loose face or desperately needed recruits. Life is that way. We must do with what we have. Now i am wondering what happened to that fire breathing Brianna i knew. ?" She hugged him as hot tears streamed down her face.

"She is still there. but i have changed as well. I will see you before i go. I have some work i need to catch up on before the Admiral gets here. He should arrive in a few days." He watched her go his face contorted in pain. There went the best part of him.

[Edited on 04.27.2012 5:31 AM PDT]

  • 04.27.2012 5:27 AM PDT

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

Lieutenant Commander Kessler woke up from his nightmare. He looked over at his clock,0321. Three Covy ships exited hyperspace firing on them. Then his ship exploded. Then nothing just the vacuum. A Nightmare he had for five years.

A question burned in his mind. Who Am I ?. One that made him feel insecure. He dressed in some P.T. gear. Navy sweat pants and shirt.

He ran over to the Gym. Jupiter may be old but it had a fantastic gym. As he entered the gym setting the grav to .5 but before he did checking the workout equipment.

A track ran around the gym. It was the shape of a dome but the roof was a square. Some ingenuity was used to give it a different shape.

He ran across the track. It was specially designed to work in low grav. He ran across the gyms roof with one question on his mind. Who Am I ?.

He had spent little time thinking on Brianna. They did not see each other at all. This ship is quite big. It was hard not to think about her.

It kept him going in UNSC Military prison complex just outside of San Francisco. The Old Alcatraz Complex. It was rebuilt to serve as a military prison.

He would think of her and him especially when they got shore leave to visit San Diego. They spent time on the beaches. He remembered her in a bikni. How her eyes twinkled.

Her kisses would make him feel like a spartan. He felt empowered. Two years later he would be sitting in a prison. A five year nightmare.

They kept the prison clean and orderly. But for him it was hell. Being away from her nearly broke him those first few weeks but he had to hope for the future.

He began regretting some of the things he had done. It was thinking of her that got him out. He needed to figure out how to live on.

He remembered her face when the verdict was passed down. Then just a few days ago. He felt like his guts were riped out. He had to make things right. He had to do what it took.

Before he was a young boy trying to do boyish things but now he was a man. But he could not imagine a world with out a woman in his life.

Brianna meant everything to him. He failed at just about everything else but he would not fail her or being an officer. This he knew.

Sweat poured down his face as he ran the track four times. Turning the gravity back to normal he started to work out. He had to push past the pain.

One thing was for sure was that any one who has no hope will have failed. He could not believe it but Brianna walked into the gym herself as he was doing push ups.

Brianna was wearing some sweat pants and a t-shirt. Seeing him she watched him mess up his push up. He recovered quickly getting to his feet."Brianna."

" Oh i didnt know..well i kinda did. I had hoped to see you earlier.." Brianna didnt know what to say.

Victor grabbed a towel to wipe the sweat from his face." Look Brianna i never blamed you. I look in the mirror every day thankful you were with me. I don't deserve a second chance. I tears me up inside that i failed you."

Brianna walked over to him cusping his chin." No you did not fail me. We failed you. Every one i talked to has said the same. You were in a no win situation. You are a good person. Yet if they did many will die becuse some one refuses a order or some one who might die because they don't like what a captain's orders are."

Victors eyes downcast." You kept me going in prison i just..i .."

Brianna kissed his cheek." I know i did. It hurts me to see the man i love in pain all the time. To know i cannot do anything for him. I do know you will make a difference. That you are a good person. They will see what i see."

Victor stood like a wet noodle but her kiss warmed his cheek. Then like a fire it energised his whole body. He laughed" It is irony that i finally see what i have. What it has cost me. The woman i love i cannot be with. Yet..I have one last thing to do. I have to find peace in my heart with you Brianna. I want you to be safe no matter what happens."

Brianna smiled." You have not lost me we just have been apart like two ships in the night. This war has cost every one greatly. Losing you again would be careless of me. I will see you at the Admirals briefing tonight when he gets here. Be sure to wear tropicals."

Victor silently nodded as he turned to head out the door." Victor. I will see you before i go. Just know i have faith in you." Victor felt tears come down his face as he left her behind. His emotions kept in check for five years burst out.

He was relived. Perhaps he could salvage his life. Perhaps he was not as worthless as he imagined.



[Edited on 04.29.2012 1:06 AM PDT]

  • 04.29.2012 12:58 AM PDT

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

Victor Stood in UNSC Tropical Full Dress uniform looking into the bathroom mirror. A man who has done wrong turns from that mirror. He looked himself square in the eyes.

Taking his service cap he placed it on. Checking him self once more he turned out the light.

He exited his officer stateroom heading down to the officers mess hall. Checking his watch he had some time.

Looking out a window he could see the stars. His uncle was in the UNSC for many years as a Navigator. Teaching Victor about the stars.

They would look at them together on Far Home. A planet that was glassed early in the war. Not many of his family made it out. Just his two sisters and his mother.

Every one has similar tales. Yet his mother had faith for him saying he could not have done anything but that he protects all of them.

His sisters write him telling about there lives. His mother says that both sisters are recovering from the scars. She worries about him.

Even in prison she came to see him. He told her of Brianna. He had never seen his mother so happy. His mother was a quiet woman unless angered.

He remembered a day when some parents tried to say he was cheating at chess. His mother defended him saying" If you're child spent more time learning the moves he would do better." After that they said nothing but gave angry glances when she came near.

His father was a hard working welder who went where the work was. Space air or sea his father did it all. Teaching his son that education work ethic and professionalism will make you into what you want to be.

They moved countless times finally settling on Far Home. First thing he did was build a tree swing with a old tire and some rope.

His dad spent time teaching him about many things and how to fix things. Take care of the tools you use so they take care of you. Valuable lessons.

Like all teens he was learning to cope with being older and responsible. He was the first to go to collage in his family. Traveling to Reach to attend New Alexandria University.

After getting his Bachelors in Electrical Engineering. He continued but ran out of money so joining the Navy was the best solution. He continued to take classes Getting his masters in Electrical Systems Engineering.

His father was so proud when he graduated. Even prouder when he joined the Navy as a Spaceman. Working out in the cold of space while taking classes when he could. Doing what his father did before him. But instead he salvaged ships or was assigned to rescue operations.

His mother last wrote to him before he left prison." Your Father would be so proud. He loves all his children but you Have his spirit. He worried about you in his own way. You remind me of him. In that i am thankful my son."

All of those good people died because of the Covenant belief that we are heretics to there faith. He would not forgive them for taking those that they did.

Checking his watch he would be early. Victor felt nervous. Walking past two armed marines he put on a friendly smile opening the hatch.

Rear Admiral Walter Brown stood talking with Captain Andrews. Admiral Brown was a African-American male in his late sixties. A big man towering over many at six foot three.

" So Tom did you ever marry that girl on the Texas ?." Brown joked with Andrews." Hell no. I married a sweet girl who was a doctor on Harvest. Julie was a pistol but she was married to the navy." Brown cackled." So she did have a name."

A orderly walked over asking Victor if he wanted a drink" Yes tea please." Victor Noticed Brianna was at the Admirals side hidden by him until he walked forward." Commander McCormick. Admiral, And Captain." Shaking Kesslers hand Captain Andrews had a grin on his face." Yes Walt she did have a name."

" This is Lieutenant Commander Victor Kessler. May i introduce Rear Admiral Walter Brown the third. And i am sure you know the Commander." Victor Shook hands with every one.

"You can trust him Walt. Last time i served with him he saved thirty men trapped on a disabled Troopship. Just before they retired this bucket. Pardon Lady." Andrews patted his shoulder.

"From what i hear from the Commander he is a good man to have. Because a briefing on what ONI has uncovered has us concerned to say the least. He will be instrumental in out plan."

" Ah yes she is old but i have good memories of serving on her. Too bad i was not able to have her as my own flagship. I keep hearing, for one battle ship ten frigates or three heavy cruisers can be built. This late in the war Covys out number us a great deal. What say you Lt. Commander ?"

Victor listening in loosed his neck tugging on the collar." Well Admiral they do out number us but understanding them will give us an advantage and insight on what they really want. All we have been doing is slowing them down. I figure they have a weakness and we just have not found out how to use it or exploit it."

Admiral Brown looked over at Captain Andrews." So you teaching him to go for the throat?" Every one chuckled. It was good for Victor to hear Brianna giggle again. A Waiter handed out drinks." Well Walt lets get our faces on. Crews been looking forward to this dinner." Admiral Brown adjusted his cap." Ah let them wait a bit more. Besides we are having coffee after the dinner. I am sure the Lt. Commander would love to join the three of us.?" Looking over at Victor who was giving Brianna glances. " Oh yes Admiral it would be my pleasure."

Brianna was radiant in her white dress uniform. Her soft baby blue eyes and red curly hair made her stand out. Brianna glanced back a pert little smile never leaving her lips. They finished there drinks.

Heading out into the Main Galley. It had been opened up to make room for the tables. Each was arranged corresponding to rank. Every one stood up for the four officers entering the room. All eyes were on them. three officers were waiting at the table both Captains of the frigates. Captain Lennox is the Chief Medical Officer on board theJupiter[i/].

As the four officers sat down drinks were poured. This was real wine not the cheap imitation stuff. Every one conversed. Men and women cheered as salads were passed out. freed prisoners who ate just a small tray of food now were eating pot roast, casseroles and even meat loaf. Baked potatoes and corn were the sides.

Brianna sat next to Victor whispering in his ear as they ate." The Admiral pulled out the stops he wanted every man to have a good meal. He even had real food brought aboard for the final meal before you go in."Victor enjoyed the meal seeing happy faces.

A Master Chief Petty Officer stood up raising his glass."Admiral the crew of the [i]Jupiter
would like to toast you for giving us a second chance. May you find victory Admiral in all you re endeavors." Every one raised there glasses." Cheers"

As the meal ended classical music came on. Ride of the Valkyries then Beethoven's 5Th played. NCOs and Spacemen danced. All the officers were invited for Coffee. retiring from the dinner they went back into the officers rec room. Every one sat down stuffed.

Coffee was brought with a small brownie to each officer. Admiral Brown sipped his coffee." It was a good dinner. I am glad the men and women will get a chance to feel appreciated because to be frank we are looking at ninety percent losses at least."

" ONI thinks this is a waste of resources. But if the Lt. Commander can pull off what we have him slated for it will make the mission a success. We must slow down the Covys or all will be lost. Command agrees with me. Brianna will brief you before we all leave. God Help Us because we are going to need it." Admiral leaned back in his chair looking worried.

Victor siped his coffee it was real. yet he could not take his eyes off the lovely Brianna. He was worried but some how, Brianna being there soothed his worries.




[Edited on 04.29.2012 5:19 AM PDT]

  • 04.29.2012 4:55 AM PDT

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

Brianna Dimmed the lights as each officer turned there attention to the wall. A panel slid down to reveal a screen.

Victor looked at the wall coffee in hand. Each officer had there eyes on the wall." This is Operation Broadsword. The Covenant has been using the former colony of Atlantis to strike at us."

As she spoke the computer screen projected maps, A 2-D digital representation of units taking part in the operation.

" As you can see even if we sent in an entire fleet it is well protected. A mine field surrounds the planet. Inside of that mine field is a fortress and three Repair Yards."She pointed to each on the screen.

"Spartans would be sent but unable to destroy all objectives. Crippling this repair center would set them back at least five years according to ONI."

" Including enemy assets we are looking at twelve ships. So how do we do the impossible ?. A single man with a nuke can breach the minefield. Lieutenant Commander that will be you. A second suit case nuke will be given for a target of you're choice. A pelican will pick you up. As all three ships enter destroy the space docks and wreck as much havoc as you can."

" We don't know if they have reinforcements or not. Lets assume they do. Nor do we know how many they have. What we do know is they have a base on planet. We don't know if you will make it out. So you will need to improvise. Questions ?" Brianna looked around the room as it brightened.

Captain Andrews lookeds straight faced." No choice but to fight our way in and out. We will think of something i am sure of it." Victor felt numb. Out in the dead of space with a Nuke on him. Undetectable but still its a long ride.

Kessler Cleared his throat." Yes will i be able to train for this it has been five years since i even straped on any jet pack. ?" Captain shrugged." I can make the time. You will need to get re acquainted with everything again."

Admiral Brown looked over at him" You are rated for nukes right? Lt. Commander. Kessler gave a firm nod." Yes i have the security clearance as well. Officers are trained because if a ship has nukes they want us to disarm them when it is salvaged or rescued."

Captain Andrews smiled at Brianna." Thank you for the briefing Commander. Thank you all for attending. Admiral if you will fallow me back to my quarters we can talk some more." Both officers left leaving them to Converse. Victor did not feel like speaking finishing his coffee and brownie he left. Learning the names of those other captains will be vital but he did not feel any need to speak to some one at this time.

In the dead of space with no back up. Heading back to his quarters he just wanted to stare into space. Cursing his luck. Brianna was doing her job but it was that this sounded like some movie or book. He was no hero just a man who did a job, like every one else.


[Edited on 04.29.2012 9:39 PM PDT]

  • 04.29.2012 4:19 PM PDT

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

Authors note: I am useing a diffrent style here seeing if it works with the dialog. Setting up What is going on in the UNSC.

I hope this story showcases how desprate things are and allows events to take place for the future. It takes place seven years before the events of Halo discovery.

I wanted to show how dangerus and proud some of the saliors are of there professhion. You dont see them much in Halo. Salvage experts are some of the Navys most qualified Divers apply that in space you have a simmilar kind of Navy.

I hope you enjoy this story. But it holds true to things that have happend to me in my own life. How we never seem to get ahead. Trying to find our own way and live with what we have done.

I have not served in the millitary but my father did for 22 years. I serve my community in another way. Thank you for reading any comments would be appreshated.-Commander.

  • 04.30.2012 2:07 AM PDT

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

[Atlantis System Covenant Occupied Space]

Sladan left his quarters passing Covenant Troops loading Drop Ships and Troops on Fortress Star Fires main hanger. He paused to see his fellow Sangheili leading squads of Unggoy to someplace exciting.

"Sladan get it in gear! i need you here. Take a Banshee get over to the space docks. Stop Gawking." Warlords voice cut over his helmet.

Sladan spoke in a bored tone." Sorry Warlord i am coming sir."Warlord must have seen him on the view screen again. It seemed every one else was heading off to do something exciting.

Sladan was a average Sangheili for his race. He trained to be a warrior but ended up serveing as a worker some how. Warlord discouraged him making his presence known to any one. So he took a Banshee from hanger bay four.

He loved to fly but no joy riding today. He flew towards one of the three space docks.

Then as the sun touched the front of the ship it he was awed.
It was a new prototype corvette. It thrilled him to see it from the outside but as he landed on board it faded. Warlord was waiting for him.

Warlord was a Sangheili like him self. His mentor who after losing a arm and eye seemed meaner than even a brute. Wearing battered golden armor that he refused to turn in it made him tough.

Warlord gave a cold stare." About time Sladan." Sladans Cheerful demeanor changed as he got out of the Banshee." What were you doing looking at the main hangar bay ?"

Sladan looked at his feet." Wishing i was fighting."

Warlord walked over to the young Sangheili putting a arm on his shoulder." You do good work here. Every one must do there job. I know I've said it allot. But trust me when i say this. Fighting is not what every one says it is. Battles are ugly affairs but i understand being young like you my self."

Sladan sighed." Yes i understand. My requests for a transfer have been denied thirty two times. Just feel like i am wasting away here."

Warlord used his good arm patting Sladan on the back." Lets go check out the engines again. Look you're time will come. Just stay focused. Besides you spent three cycles on this project. Might as well see it through."

Sladan grabbed a tool box heading back into the engine room with Warlord. They looked into every system. This ship was designed around a stealth system. This ship could go undetected by sensors and it was unable to be seen by the eye.

It would allow them to find human vessels. It was a new scout ship being tested. Only problem was that it generated a Electrical field that could be detected. Also it blocked sensors like the Active Cloaking.

Unlike Active Cloaking visual sensors or even a human thermal sensor would not pick it up due to new technologies in this one ship. Its hull radiates no heat. Engines have been designed to show little to no heat while giving full thrust.

Biggest problem is that some how the Stealth System shortens out electrical systems all over the ship that are suppose to be shielded. Power Consumption is a vital factor.

This ship could home in on human ships setting up a listening post or gather intelligence. Until they are able to get the Stealth System working properly the ship is stuck in dry dock.

Last time they took it out it broke down from the power being sucked into the stealth drive. That caused a electrical systems failure. So now he was replacing all the damaged electrical components.

This ship did come with standard weapons but no one dared fire them while stealth ed. Usually the stealth drive consumed so much power.

He had tried almost everything to fix it but he felt frustrated because Sladan was stuck here trying to make it work. While a war was passing him.

" Well i replaced all the components. Warlord i want to try something new. A separate power supply for the stealth system." Speaking to Warlord while doing a systems check.

" If they would stop taking my workers i could have moved on my self. We are getting a new worker i hear. once we are done i will teach you more about being a warrior." Warlord checking the engineering holographic display. making sure all was well.

" Well at least i learned from you what not to do. I yearn to get out of here not really for battle. I feel restless." Saldan using some tools checking the power output of each instrument panel.

" Not this again. You want faith go to a sermon. Otherwise my foot can find you a direction." Warlord said with amusement.

After they were both done they went up front to the bridge to rest and check out all of the displays. Entire bridge was very quiet. Except for the Con chairs both of them sat in.

They ate lunch looking out into the stars watching the sun move past the planet below. It was a sight to see. Warlord remarked." I never get tired of seeing that. Lets me know that there is something unexplained in the Universe."

Saldan thought on this wondering if he should appreciate things more.

[Edited on 04.30.2012 3:41 AM PDT]

  • 04.30.2012 3:29 AM PDT

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

Over the planets two rotations Sladan riged a portable plasma power plant to the stealth system. Warlord helped run some energy conducting tubes. When they completed the task Warlord gave him that steely look letting him know it was time.

They used the Corvettes mostly empty cargo bay to practice. Handing Sladan a Plasma Rifle he allowed the younger Sangheili to go first. " Go on i have set it up."

Sladan was scolded so many times but each time he got better. Holographic targets came to life as human soldiers appeared. He rolled to his right firing hitting both targets. He spotted one on top of some crates firing at that one.

He looked around for the last one. Warlords voice shattered all hopes of him finding the last target." You are dead." Lowering his Plasma Rifle. He walked over head lowered.

" You did not see the human behind you with a rocket launcher." pointing to the crate." Pay attention. Humans will lure you into traps. Do not be fooled. Also it is better to be lucky than good. I hope this shows how vulnerable you are. Shields will not save you all of the time."

Warlord waved Sladan over for Sword Practice." Warlord might i ask a question ?"

Warlord handing Sladan a energy training sword." Yes."

" I have wondered about humans sometimes. Are they like us ? And why do they fight.?" Sladan scratched his mandibles.

Warlord looked at Sladan with his good eye." A good question. One that i cannot answer fully. The prophets say they are Hera tics. But from my experience they defend there people. Some might say this makes them weak."

Sladan sounding confused." I don't understand then cant we study the humans to find out ?."

Warlord chuckled." Humans that are captured sometimes have information so studying them has not been done. They have artifacts to our Religion but any warrior who has fought on the front lines will tell you that most humans don't know about such things."

Sladan sounded sad." It would benefit all if we could learn more about them. How they live, What there warriors protect that sort of thing."

Warlord energised his sword." we have studied them a bit that the Council and Prophets have declared them Heretics. Personally i dislike killing innocents even if they are humans but we must show them that they have weak faith."

Sladan sounded uncertain" But i just don't understand at times why the great journey excludes them. I am uncertain about it my self. "Igniting his practice blade he stepped forward Warlord easily blocked his blow."

Warlord spun trying to spin low to cut at Sladans feet. Jumping over Warlords slice. Saldan rolled forward to strike in a uppercutting lunge.

Warlord rolled backwards to block the blow both swords locked with energy sparks flying off of both blades." If you trust in the gods and what you know is right then you will not fall. Just remember that a enemy will show no weakness. No hesitation to strike if they can win."

Warlord threw back Saldan using his shoulder to plow into the younger Sangheili. As Saldan was knocked back realizing he left him self open it was too late. He was stabbed but the practice blades hurt a great deal but did not kill.

Warlord stood over him" You did good but you must watch out for enemy tricks. You must be ready at any moment." Saldan lay on the floor in agony." Push past the pain young one. One day you will be in real combat. It will not be gentle to you."

Warlord left Saldan on the floor in pain. How many times was this ?. He never sees what Warlord does until it is too late. He must find a way to hold his own.

Saldan got up as the pain passed igniting his blade practicing in his mind against shadow opponents.

Saldan knew he must become better. Warlord's lessons were brutal sometimes but he always sought to teach him about what it means to be a true warrior.

Also it helped him learn about life. He learned so much but was like a new slug learning about the Universe..

Warlord watched from afar unseen. His good eye on Saldan's phantom practice. Not many had the drive or the will to keep going. He felt sad refusing those transfers but the boy would make a fine officer one day. If he survived real combat.

[Edited on 05.01.2012 7:28 AM PDT]

  • 05.01.2012 7:18 AM PDT

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

[Gemini System, UNSC Hidden Space Dock]

Music came from inside Andrews cabin as Kessler knocked on the steel bulkhead. A few moments later Andrews opened his door. " Come on in Victor." As Victor entered unmistakable blues were coming from a vintage stereo.

Andrews was wearing some sweat pants and t-shirt. Apparently he was painting. Photos of ships with paintings of some of the most famous UNSC ships.

" Admiral gave me some photos of those ships. Ah i never did tell you we went to the Academy together did i ?. Any ways i asked you to come in to see how you are doing. Been two months since i have seen you." Andrews produced two beers. Handing one to Kessler who opened it taking a drink before sitting down on those nice mini-sofas.

" Yes well i have been busy. I tried to search for a company that could send me a space rack. But instead i made one of my own modeled after ones used by divers. Took me a week to weld it properly and test it out.". Kessler looked disheveled feeling tired.

Andrews sat on a stool selecting a brush to paint with." Well i heard something about you putting thrusters on some hunk of metal. Nearly had our machinist in a uproar."

" Yes i wanted it small but able to carry what i needed. Actually i tested it a few times. Also i forgot how cold it is in space. So once i got that done i put some cargo netting on it. Had to rewire the sucker a few times."

"So i spent the rest of the time measuring out how long i would be out in space. Even took some boxes with me to represent the Nukes. Its about a 18 hour flight. After 12 my heated thermals run out of juice."

Andrews took a swig of his beer. Mixing paint but paying close attention." Did you have a chance to look up those plasma mine specs. ?"

Kessler shook his head yes." They are pretty sensitive. Captain i am a Salvage and Rescue specialist not some sapper. But i will do my best."

Andrews gave a respectful nod." No ones asking you to be a hero. But i do have some questions. Call it Captains curiosity.

I Would like to know what happened when those three ships jumped you. Also i want to know about the Commander. I am sorry if some of this is personal but i don't want some file telling me i want to know. better if you tell me if that is fine with you."

Kessler scratched his neck." Captain i will tell you because..I don't know what else to say but what are the facts about the whole Merlin incident. About Brianna i mean Commander McCormick. she moved on with her career. I did not want any backlash on her so we both agreed to keep away. Yet it did not stop us from writeing each other. I regret having to do what i did Captain but also i look back and see that i had lost more than i wished to. But we cannot take back the past."

Andrews shook his head understanding" Ive married four times. So i understand regrets. Also i regret having to drink all the time but i keep seeing dead faces. On one ship the Covys blew the bridge to hell. I went to rescue them only to find that most of the bridge crew was dead. A hole sucked oxygen out into space. So i know a bit about how you are feeling. Don't worry anything you say does not leave this room."

Kessler took a swig of his beer thinking back." Well its not like every one thinks it was. First off we received a distress signal. Second we had no idea it was a trap. Third we figured it was a legit distress call due to the fact it was in a Asteroid belt known for taking out freighters."

I remember that day...

[Edited on 05.02.2012 9:31 AM PDT]

  • 05.02.2012 9:24 AM PDT

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

[Five Years Ago aboard UNSC Frigate Chimera.]

Lieutenant Commander Victor Kessler was reviewing a message with Commander(Captain) Shawn Rawlins. Both read it twice. " Navigation get me a fix on the distress beacon. What do you think Victor ?."

Victor looked down at the message." Captain a freighter was disabled three months ago in the same area. We should be ready in case its a trap."

Captain Rawlins shook his head no." No reports of Covy activity in this area. Lets go assist in repairs. I also remember we helped that ship."

Rawlins walking over to the plot "Navigation give me a fix on that beacon." Petty Officer Ramirez replied" Sir we have it. Sat Com has a fix on it in system Captain."

"Con plot a course. Duty officer note that we are breaking off patrol to help assist a vessel in need." Captain Rawlins turned to Kessler.

" Get a team ready Lieutenant Commander. We can evaluate when we are on station."

Victor looked at the Message a third time having a bad feeling. It Read.

---------------------------------------------------------------
UNSC Emergency Channel

UNSV Merlin is requesting assistance. A voice message is being sent with this priority one alert. Vessel has been stricken by a asteroid as we came with in the gas giant Shiva's outer rings.

A Beacon has been dropped to indicate our position. Our vessel has taken damage on the port side engines we need a tow. Any vessel in the area please assist. This message will repeat every five minutes
---------------------------------------------------------------

Victor rounded up his team. Each were salvage and rescue experts like him self. Victor suited up with them heading to the bridge. They found the beacon but pieces of the Merlin were floating around.

Rawlins shook a head sadly." Search for survivors." It was tense on the bridge when he entered. Rawlins watched him enter." Kessler we found nothing. Just wreckage so far."

Two hours later they gave up the search." No escape pods. unlucky bastards. Lets head back to our patrol. I will let Command know we tried to find them in this mess." Captain Rawlins waved a hand disgustingly to the asteroid field.

" Come about to heading one eight zero degrees. Lets leave before we end up calling in a distress." Bridge crew agreed.

Exiting the Asteroids they passed a small moon of the gas giant Shiva. Every one was in a dour mood. Suddenly three Covy ships exited from hyperspace.

Alert Alpha was sounded.Red lights flashed across the ship. Captain Rawlins was frozen. He was chatting with Victor about his time on Mars. Victor shook him. "Captain ?"

" This is Ramirez what do we do ?" bridge crew looked each in a state of panic. Victor spoke with a clear voice." Arm all weapons. Con bring us around near the one on our starboard side. We are going to hit it then run before they can stop us."

As the ship moved some how the Captain came out of his state of shock." Why are we moving Mr Collins ?" Lieutenant(jg) Collins looked back in confusion. " Sir we are escaping as X.O. Kessler ordered."

Shawn Rawlins brought him self to full height." Running is for Cowards. Launch all fighters and bring us around for a full salvo."

Victor stepped in front of the Captain." Belay that order Mr Collins. Captain we are out numbered three to one. They will be launching fighters. We have no hope of wining such an engagement."

Victor frowned when Shawn ignored him." Do it-!" Victor Punched Shawn in his stomach then laid him out with a right cross.

"Get us the hell out of here Mr Collins." Plasma blasts shook the frigate as they returned fire. Victor shook his right hand. " Duty officer note that i have taken Command of the ship and that you should send the master of arms up to my state room when we return to UNSC space."

Victor gave clear orders." Navigation take us into the Shiva asteroid field. I want a damage report. Then dispatch DC teams to those areas."

UNSC Chimera Was chased like in the days of old when pirates tried to out run military ships. Chimera did her best to avoid plasma fire while returning it.

Ramerez reported. " Sir we lost most of our Starboard armor. Deck seven reports fires under control. Engineering says we are at ninety percent speed. DC teams are working on a hull breach on our main hanger deck.

" Let every one know we will not be able to stop. Once we are in the asteroid field make for asteroid Zero three seven Beta. It will hide us. I doubt the Covys are that crazy to fallow us inside."

As the Chimera flew into the asteroid field all three Covenant ships slowed down.

Victor was playing a dangerous game of hide and seek one he knew that he could win. Problem was when he got back. It would not go well. He thought of Brianna but he had no choice. No choice at all.

[Edited on 05.02.2012 11:11 AM PDT]

  • 05.02.2012 11:07 AM PDT

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

Author Note:Humm no questions* Hears Crickets.* cant tell if i am doing horrable or Soupy Weaksauce ok or even good. Or any comments. Ah well.

Next story i do will be a funny. The Elite who ate spegetti.!. Or Some such!.

What i need is a Grunt to write this while i Um beat him silly on typos!.

Any who have fun!*Drives a ghost into a brute hammer weilded by a brute cheifetan. Flys fifty feet in air before explodeing*

[Edited on 05.02.2012 1:10 PM PDT]

  • 05.02.2012 1:09 PM PDT

Good story.

But the only thing I must point out is that comma's are your friend, you should use them instead of having 3 billion short sentences.

  • 05.02.2012 4:50 PM PDT

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

Victor leaned his head back finishing the story as Captain Andrews leaned forward now listening intently." We hid in the Shiva asteroid field for three days. Covys lost one ship searching for us."

" I had the Captain secured in his cabin till we got back. UNSC wanted to handle it quietly but Shawn wanted us punished for muntiny. All the department heads were tried. But i was responsible. 63 men and women died that day. If they dropped the charges i would accept full blame at the trial."

Andrews face looked sad." So did he ever forgive you.?"

Kessler shook his head no." No he did not. Blames me for him getting retired. I hear he works for a big corporation as a chief security consultant and is a Executive for the Corporations private security fleet."

Andrews took a swig of beer then looked over at Kessler." It sounds like he lost his pride and blames you for taking his glory."

Kessler lay there looking at the roof." I was Captain for three days. Only good that came out of it was that we got back alive. I feel guilty for doing what i did but there was no time. Fighting them in open space was foolish. Shawn knew better. It does not really matter now does it."

Andrews understood." It is tragic but yes being a Captain is a great burden. I think that had you not been there every one would have died because of a Captain who got tired of running. Plenty of dead heroes who tried to save the ship. Any man who does not think of his crew is not exactly a proper Captain. Last resort is to fight it out. Cultivate options."

"Get some rest Victor. Stop beating yourself up over it. Life moves forward whether we wish to or not. You have a woman here that loves you a great deal. If we all live you can come back and marry her. Hell if i were twenty years younger she would be my wife."

Victor nearly choked on the beer with a grin on his face. swallowing he wiped his mouth." This is true Captain."

Captain Andrews turned back to his painting." Enjoy things while you can. We leave in three months when our weapons get upgraded. Things will get hectic around here. I have been sitting on this old girl now for three years. So it feels like a prison sometimes."

Finishing his beer Victor understood." Thanks for the Beer Captain Andrews. Also the advice." Standing up he exited the Captains quarters with allot on his mind.

[Edited on 05.09.2012 8:45 AM PDT]

  • 05.09.2012 6:48 AM PDT