User:Simon rjh/Rgalekgolo

The Rgalekgolo is a Lekgolo form, made up of one of more Lekgolo colonies. Also known as the "Ranger Form", it is used when the colony needs to travel a long distance. As such, the Rgalekgolo is large, with four long, dexterous legs ending in wide padded "feet". This form was only seen before the Lekgolo were assimilated into the Covenant, and saw extensive combat in the Taming of the Hunters.

Physiology
Despite the size and strength of the Rgalekgolo, it is vulnerable as it is made up entirely of soft Lekgolo "worms". To protect itself, when the colony forms a Rgalekgolo, most of the Lekgolo past breeding age will sacrifice themselves and die. As their bodies dry up, they form a hard, natural armour that protects the colony from natural predators and also small arms fire. The underside of the Ranger is mostly unprotected, as it receives little sunlight, preventing the lekgolo from drying properly.

Combat
During the Taming of the Hunters, Rgalekgolo were often used as "tank" forms, able to crush Sangheili warriors with their feet and massive bulk. They were not invincible, the best Sangheili warriors could aim at their unprotected underside and force them to retreat. Plasma grenades and fuel rods to the underside have been the only recorded way to kill a Ranger form. Energy swords are also effective as they can cut through the protective armour, providing the swordsman can get close enough to utilise it.