Log Archive/Ares Logs

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In 2587, classified military documents relating to a number of top-secret military projects from the war were released to Office of Naval Intelligence officers, ostensibly as part of war-time abuse investigations. Among these documents were a number of files, logs, and reports from the SPARTAN-II Class III Program -- more commonly known asProject ARES. The soldiers of this "Ares Detachment" were highly trained commandos: genetically and cybernetically enhanced Spartan-grade supersoldiers based off the work of Doctor Catherine Halsey and the original SPARTAN-II Program. While the existence and deployment of these special forces teams was well known within UNSC High Command, their origins remained largely shadowed in mystery until the release of the 2587 documents. This secrecy would quickly evaporate, as the details of these Class III SPARTAN's origins became a part of public record--everything from their training, to their eventual deployment in the field.

2540
WELL, NOW I FINALLY LEARNED WHAT MY NEW ASSIGNMENT IS. SUFFICE TO SAY, IT WAS MORE THAN A BIT SURPRISING – IT’S NOTHING LIKE WHAT I’VE DONE BEFORE. AND I’M REALLY NOT SURE WHETHER I’M QUALIFIED FOR THIS.

RICH WANTS ME TO TRAIN SPARTANS - A NEW BATCH OF SPARTAN-II CALIBER SUPERSOLDIERS CODENAMED “ARES”. HEH, I SUPPOSE IT NEEDED A FLASHY NICKNAME TO SEPARATE IT FROM ALL THE OTHER SUPERSOLDIER PROGRAMS GOING ON. STILL, NAMING IT AFTER THE GOD OF WAR IS A BIT ENTHUSIASTIC. RICH SHOWED ME THE BUDGET – IT’S NOT ENOUGH. HE’S NOT GOING TO PRODUCE ANY GODS OF WAR WITH THOSE PALTRY SUMS. I’D PUT MORE FAITH IN “OLYMPIAN” (AND WHY WOULD YOU START TRAINING A THIRD BATCH OF SPARTAN-IIs WHEN THE SECOND ISN’T EVEN NEAR BEING FINISHED YET ANYWAY?). AND I TOLD HIM SO – AND LET’S JUST SAY HE WASN’T OVERLY AMUSED.

WELL, THIS STINKS. RICH WANTS ME – WHO HAS OPERATED SOLO FOR THE LAST 15 YEARS – TO TRAIN SPARTANS LIKE ME, WITH LESS THAN SATISFACTORY FUNDING, WHEN OTHER SPARTAN PROGRAMS ARE STILL ONGOING – AND WITH A BETTER BUDGET AT THAT. HOW COULD THIS POSSIBLY BE ANY MORE POORLY HANDLED?

OH, I KNOW: ENLIST AN OLD MARINE COLONEL AS THE GUY IN CHARGE OF SCIENCE! WHY WOULD HE EVEN DO THAT? I GET WHY HE WOULDN’T GO TO HALSEY, AND MORIARTY IS OCCUPIED WITH LEADING DELTA-4’S FIELD DETACHMENTS – BUT WHY WOULD HE LIAISON A MARINE WITH SOME SCIENCE DEGREES? NOTHING AGAINST THE GUY – HE LOOKS FINE ENOUGH – BUT DOES A GUY LIKE THAT REALLY HAVE WHAT IT TAKES FOR THIS SORT OF THING? DOES RICH WANT SOMEONE WITH MORALS NOT AFFECTED BY ONI’S CORRUPT POLITICAL CLIMATE AROUND FOR SOME REASON? OR IS THIS COLONEL MORE THAN HE SEEMS? I’D BEST BE CAREFUL WITH HIM JUST IN CASE.

OR MAYBE I’M JUST AGITATED OVER HAVING TO DO THIS. I’VE NEVER WANTED TO LEAD – THERE WAS ALWAYS SOMEONE BETTER TO DO IT FOR ME – JOHN, CASSIE, RIKER, AND ALL THE OTHERS. BUT NOW THERE IS NO ONE ELSE. EXCEPT FOR BLIGHTBLOOD – AND I WOULD NEVER LET HIM NEAR KIDS EVER AGAIN. IT WAS ENOUGH THAT HE SCARRED THE JAVELINs FOR LIFE.

I’M NOT GOING TO DENY THAT US SPARTANS ARE ONE OF THE THINGS THAT ARE CONSISTENTLY WORKING AGAINST THE COVENANT. HELL, I HAVE TO ADMIT I ALONE HAVE ACCOMPLISHED A LOT OF EXTRAORDINARY THINGS THROUGHOUT THIS CONFLICT – THEREFORE MORE OF US COULD NEVER HURT. BUT IS THIS THE RIGHT APPROACH TO DO THIS? IS THIS THE RIGHT TIME? CAN I REALLY DO THIS? CAN THAT COLONEL STANDOFF GUY DO THIS?

I DON’T KNOW. I GUESS WE’LL HAVE TO FIND OUT THE HARD WAY. AND IF NOTHING ELSE IT LETS ME TAKE A BREAK FROM FIGHTING ON THE FRONTLINES.

FEBRUARY 23RD, 2540

IT’S ODD BEING BACK ON TANTALUS AFTER ALL THESE YEARS OF MOVING FROM PLANET TO PLANET ON THE FRONTLINE. I HAD ALMOST FORGOTTEN THE MASSIVE CATACOMBS BELOW SURFACE LEVEL. I CERTAINLY NEVER CONSIDERED THE POSSIBILITY OF BUILDING A MASSIVE TRAINING FACILITY IN THEM.

BUT HERE I AM, WATCHING A BASE OF OPERATIONS FOR PROJECT ARES BEING CONSTRUCTED IN TUNNELS UNDERNEATH FORT HAMILL. I HAVE TO ADMIT IT’S A BIT IMPRESSIVE.

STILL, I THINK IT’S A WASTE OF MONEY ON OUR ALREADY MEAGER BUDGET. REALLY, WE COULD HAVE USED AN ABANDONED FORT IN THE DEEP FORESTS OR USE ONE OF THE UNSC’S SECRET PLANETS OR ASTEROIDS IN OTHER SYSTEMS. BUT RICH INSISTS ON THE PROJECT BEING KEPT HIDDEN FROM SATELLITE FOOTAGE. HE’S REALLY PARANOID ABOUT SOMEONE FINDING OUT ABOUT ALL THIS. WHICH MEANS ENLISTING STANDOFF MAKES EVEN LESS SENSE.

I DID SOME PRIVATE DIGGING ON THIS STANDOFF CHARACTER. FAIRLY SOLID SERVICE RECORD, NO CRIMINAL RECORD, NO PRIOR INVOLVEMENT WITH ONI AND NO IMMEDIATE SIGNS OF EXTERNAL TAMPERING OR FABRICATION. AND HIS SCIENCE CREDENTIALS ARE A BIT MORE WELL-EARNED THAN I EXPECTED – HE CERTAINLY KNOWS HIS CHEMISTRY AND GENETICS. ALL IN ALL – HE SEEMS LIKE NO ONE PARTICULARLY SPECIAL. THERE ARE PROBABLY HUNDREDS LIKE HIM OUT THERE. SO EITHER RICH WANTS SOMEONE WITH A MORE GROUNDED PERSPECTIVE IN THE PROJECT, OR THIS IS ALL A VERY ELABORATE FABRICATION BY RICH TO LULL ME INTO A SENSE OF SECURITY SO THAT I WILL CONFIDE IN THIS GUY WHAT I MAY NOT CONFIDE IN RICH. BUT WHY GO TO ALL THAT EFFORT JUST TO DO THAT? OR WAS THIS FORCED ON HIM? DID PARANGOSKY ORDER THIS? NO, THAT’S EVEN LESS LIKELY. EH, I’LL PROBABLY JUST KEEP A DISTANCE FROM THE GUY FOR A WHILE – SEE IF I CAN LEARN MORE WHEN I MEET HIM IN PERSON. ASSUMING HE DOES RETURN FROM INTERVIEWING THE CANDIDATES.

AND WHY IS HE ENTRUSTED WITH INTERVIEWING THE CANDIDATES? SHOULDN’T THAT BE MY JOB? IT’S I WHO’S GOING TO TRAIN THEM, AFTER ALL (HEAR, HEAR – LAST WEEK I COMPLAINED ABOUT HAVING TO DO THIS, YET NOW I’M COMPLAINING ABOUT NOT DOING ENOUGH). IS IT BECAUSE HALSEY WAS THE ONE WHO DID IT FOR THE FIRST CLASS?

DAMN, THIS PROJECT JUST RAISES SO MANY QUESTIONS. I SINCERELY HOPE RICH ACTUALLY KNOWS WHAT HE’S GETTING US ALL INTO.

WELL, AT LEAST I’VE BEEN GIVEN A NICE OFFICE. I GUESS BEING ELEVATED TO COMPANY-GRADE OFFICER HAS ITS PERKS.

MARCH 1ST, 2540

YOU KNOW, I MAY HAVE OVERREACTED ABOUT ALL THIS. I MEAN, NOW THAT I’VE SETTLED DOWN HERE, GOTTEN TIME TO THINK ABOUT IT AND TALK TO THE DIs, AND READ UP ON THE SITUATION OUT THERE – THIS PROJECT JUST MIGHT BE A GOOD THING.

RICH MAY HAVE CUT CORNERS IN MOST ASPECTS OF THE PROGRAM, BUT THE FACILITIES ARE NICE ENOUGH AND THE DRILL INSTRUCTORS ARE MOSTLY VERY EXPERIENCED (SOME HAVE EVEN TRAINED SPARTANS BEFORE). THE CHIEF INSTRUCTOR, DEAN JACKSON, IN PARTICULAR SEEMS A GOOD CHOICE. HIS SERVICE RECORD SPEAKS FOR HIM – HUNDREDS OF ENGAGEMENTS, DOZENS OF SUCCESSFUL COVERT OPS AND PLENTY OF DRILLING EXPERIENCE. NOT TO MENTION HE SEEMS LIKE A GOOD MAN. I KNOW HE’S GOING TO HAVE TO PLAY THE RECRUITS’ WORST NIGHTMARE – LIKE MENDEZ – BUT AT THEIR CORE, CHIEF INSTRUCTORS STILL HAVE TO BE DECENT MEN IF THEY’RE GOING TO EARN THE RESPECT OF AS MANY AS POSSIBLE. DEAN FULFILLS ALL THESE CRITERIA NICELY. AND HE ACTUALLY ENJOYS MY SENSE OF HUMOR.

THERE’S ALSO THE MATTER OF SHIT HITTING THE FAN OUT ON THE FRONTLINES. ADMIRAL COLE IS DOING HIS BEST OUT THERE, AND IS STILL SCORING VICTORIES – BUT HE’S LOSING GROUND. EVER SO SLIGHTLY, HE’S BEING GRADUALLY PUSHED BACK. SOME COVENANT SHIPS HAVE EVEN DARED VENTURES INTO THE OUTER-MOST INNER COLONIES. FOR NOW, THEY’VE BEEN REPELLED, BUT WHO KNOWS IN A FEW YEARS. AND HOW MUCH LONGER CAN COLE KEEP GOING WITHOUT A BREAK? I’M CONVINCED HE HASN’T HAD SHORE LEAVE SINCE THE WAR STARTED – AND A HERO HE MAY BE, BUT HE’S STILL JUST A MAN.

THANKFULLY COLE’S NOT THE ONLY REASON THE COVENANT ARE STILL MORE OR LESS CONTAINED IN THE OUTER COLONIES RIGHT NOW. SPARTANS, JAVELINS AND TROJANS ARE BEING DEPLOYED LEFT, RIGHT AND CENTER AND SCORING SUCCESSES – SPARTANS IN PARTICULAR. BUT THEIR NUMBERS ARE DWINDLING – SLOWLY FOR THE IIs, FAR TOO QUICKLY FOR THE IIIs. DAISY AND CAL ARE DEAD WITHOUT A DOUBT AND NO ONE HAS HEARD FROM JEROME, DOUGLAS AND ALICE IN YEARS. RANDALL AND KURT ARE ALSO MISSING – KURT PROBABLY DEAD, AND RANDALL MAY HAVE DEFECTED TO THE URF. THE LATTER DOESN’T SIT WELL WITH ME AT ALL.

POINT IS, WE’RE GOING TO NEED MORE SPARTANS. AND IF NOTHING ELSE – PROJECT ARES MAY BE ABLE TO DO THAT. I’M GOING TO MAKE SURE OF THAT. I STILL DON’T KNOW IF I’M QUALIFIED FOR THIS JOB – BUT I’M GOING TO DO MY BEST. THAT WILL HAVE TO BE ENOUGH FOR NOW.

MARCH 25TH, 2540

WELL, WE'VE GOT THE KIDS GATHERED NOW. I'LL HAVE TO SPEAK TO THEM SOON. TELL THEM THEY'RE SOON-TO-SPARTANS. AND THAT THEY CAN NEVER, EVER, RETURN TO THEIR RESPECTIVE HOMES. SOME ARE VENGEFUL ORPHANS, SO THEY DON'T MIND; THEY DON'T HAVE ANYTHING TO RETURN TO ANYWAY. I ADMIRE SUCH RESOLVE IN SO SMALL CHILDREN; I COULD NEVER BE THAT STRONG. BUT THE ONES WHO DID HAVE A HOME, THOSE WHO LIVED A HAPPY LIFE...I DON'T KNOW, IT FEELS LIKE I MIGHT AS WELL HAVE SHOT THEM IN THE KNEECAPS. I KNOW IT'S NECESSARY, BUT IT DOESN'T ALWAYS HELP MY CONSCIENCE. I'LL STILL TRAIN THEM ALL OF COURSE - BUT I DON'T HAVE TO LIKE DOING IT.

I'VE DONE THE RESEARCH ON THEM ALL, AND I FROWN ON THE NEW PARAMETERS RICH APPROVED FOR THE ENLISTMENT; ONLY 20% (10 CANDIDATES) OF THE 50 REMAINING CANDIDATES ARE OF GENETIC STOCK VERY CLOSE TO OR NEAR-EQUIVALENT TO MINE AND THE OTHER IIs - OF WHICH ONLY 4%, TWO PEOPLE, ARE ACTUALLY TRULY EQUAL. THEN THERE'S THE IN-BETWEENS THAT MAY OR MAY NOT MAKE IT (42%), AND LASTLY THE RANDOM ONES RICH APPROVED SIMPLY TO FILL UP THE ROSTER. IF IT'S TRUE WHAT I HEAR ABOUT THAT WE HAVE TO RELY ON OLDER AUGMENTATION PRODCEDURES...IT WON'T BE PRETTY.

I GUESS I'LL JUST HAVE TO DO MY PART OF THE JOB AS WELL AS POSSIBLE, THEN HOPE FOR THE BEST. THOUGH THAT'S EASIER SAID AND DONE.

AND I SHOULD REALLY TELL RICH'S INVESTIGATORS TO FRACKIN' PROOFREAD WHAT THEY WRITE DOWN. THERE'S ERRORS ALL OVER THE ROSTER; THEY MIXED UP [343]'S (NEED TO NOTE SOMEWHERE THAT SHE'S ONE OF "THE TWO") AND [358]'S NUMBER TAGS, AND SOMEHOW WROTE DOWN THE FORMER'S NAME AS A MALE NAME. MAKES ME WONDER WHAT KIND OF PEOPLE WORK IN [ONI]. THEN THERE WAS ALSO THE MISTAKE OF WRITING [338]'S (SECOND OF "THE TWO") TAG AS "038", NOT TO MENTION THAT THEY FORGOT TO ADD A LOT OF INTEL ABOUT HIM. IT JUST PISSES ME OFF IS ALL.

WELL, IT'S ABOUT TIME FOR ME TO GET GOING, SO I SHOULD STOP WRITING NOW.

AUGUST 5TH, 2540

WELL, I MET THEM ALLRIGHT. I'M NOT REALLY SURE WHAT I EXPECTED TO FEEL LIKE, STANDING BEFORE THEM, TALKING TO THEM; I'M NOT THE GUY TO STEP UP AND CLAIM A LEADER POSITION JUST BECAUSE I CAN, ALWAYS TRIED TO STAY AWAY FROM THAT, LET OTHERS MORE CAPABLE AND SHOWING MORE WILLINGNESS FOR IT DO IT. WELL, I CAN'T REALLY EXPLAIN, BUT WHEN I SAW THEM, I COULDN'T HELP BUT THINK OF MY FRIENDS. IT ALL REMINDED ME SO MUCH ABOUT THE DAY WHEN DOC HALSEY TOLD ALL OF US THAT WE WERE NOW SPARTANS. THE ONLY DIFFERENCE THIS TIME AROUND WAS THAT CONSIDERABLY MORE OF THESE RECRUITS LOOKED RATHER PLEASED TO BE THERE - THOSE WHO HAD VOLUNTEERED AFTER LOSING EVERYTHING THEY CHERISHED. BUT THE OTHERS, THEY WERE THE SAME...

AFTER GIVING THEM THE RUNDOWN I HAD DEAN SEND THEM INTO BED, TEAM-WISE - IT'S SOMETHING HALSEY DIDN'T TRY ON THE FIRST DAY, BUT I HOPE IT'LL LET THEM OVERCOME THEIR RESPECTIVE PAIN TOGETHER, AND IF THEY DON'T GET ALONG AT ALL, WE REDO THE TEAMS. DEAN'S A DECENT SORT; REMINDS ME OF CHIEF MENDEZ. I THINK I'LL PUT IN A GOOD WORD FOR HIM WITH COLONEL STANDOFF, JUST TO MAKE SURE HE STAYS WITH US UNTIL THE PROGRAM'S OVER, RATHER THAN UNTIL ONI DECIDES HE'S "NEEDED" ON THE FRONT AND WE GET SOME ROOKIE FROM DI ACADEMY. RESPONSIBILITY SITS PRIMARILY WITH ME, BUT I STILL NEED AS MUCH HELP AS I CAN GET.

TODAY I'LL HAVE DEAN RUN THE RECRUITS AROUND THE COMPOUND, JUST LIKE ME AND THE OTHERS WAY BACK, FOLLOWED BY PUSH-UPS, SIT-UPS ETC. THEN SOME REST, FOLLOWED BY STUDIES WITH THE AI "AVALANCHE" (I ASKED FOR A NEWER AI WHO WON'T HAVE TO BE REPLACED MID-PROGRAM, BUT RICH DIDN'T CARE). WRAPPING THINGS UP WITH "THE PLAYGROUND" - TO TEACH THOSE TEAM-HATERS A LESSON - AND DINNER TO ALL BUT THE TEAM WHO COMES IN LAST (THE COOKS ARE MAKING MIRACULOUS FOOD CONSIDERING HOW ONI CUT BACK ON THEIR BUDGET, I HAVE TO THANK THEM FOR THAT SOMEDAY). IT'S MOSTLY SHAMELESS IMITATION OF HALSEY'S TRAINING, I KNOW, BUT I WAS TOLD TO USE MY OWN EXPERIENCE, AND THAT'S ABOUT THE ONLY EXPERIENCE I HAVE. I'LL STUDY SOME NEWER TRAINING THEORIES ON THE NET LATER, THOUGH, TO MAXIMIZE EFFICIENCY. MAYBE COME UP WITH SOMETHING NEW THAT'S BETTER THAN WHAT I WENT THROUGH.

AUGUST 6TH, 2540

2541
EVEN THOUGH I HAVE BEEN REPEATEDLY TOLD OR SHOWN THAT THESE RECRUITS WON’T DO AS WELL AS MY CLASS DID – THEY KEEP DEFYING EXPECTATIONS. BALDUIN PUSHES HIMSELF THROUGH COURSES EVEN RACHEL AND CONNOR HAVE PROBLEMS WITH JUST THROUGH SHEER WILLPOWER. HE’LL BE A BEAST ON THE BATTLEFIELD, MARK MY WORDS.

SPEAKING OF RACHEL: THE PSYCHE EVALUATIONS CONTINUED TODAY WITH ROGER, RACHEL, LILY, JENNIFER AND LUCIA. THEY HAD TO BE CANCELLED AFTER RACHEL’S SESSION, HOWEVER – THE SHRINK CALLED IN THE DIs TO TAKE HER OUT AND THEN CANCELLED ALL APPOINTMENTS, CITING NAUSEA. THE DIs TOLD ME THE TRUE STORY: RACHEL SOMEHOW REDIRECTED THE CONVERSATION TO BEING ABOUT THE SHRINK INSTEAD OF HER, AND SUBSEQUENTLY UNNERVED HER SO MUCH SHE COULDN’T CONTINUE WITH THE INTERVIEW.

LOOKING BACK, I’M NOT SURPRISED. RACHEL IS ALWAYS LOOKING FOR WEAK SPOTS AND TO GET AN EDGE ON OTHERS. ORDERING HER AROUND REQUIRES A FIRM, BUT FAIR HAND. THIS SHRINK WAS NO DOUBT TOO DELICATE TO EARN RACHEL’S RESPECT. I’LL INSTRUCT HER REPLACEMENT TO KEEP THIS IN MIND.

IN THE MEANTIME, I’VE FILED A REQUEST TO STANDOFF TO LET MRS. KISHIMOTO GO FROM THE PROJECT. WORKING HERE IS CLEARLY NOT VERY GOOD FOR HER. WHO KNOWS? SHE MIGHT WANT TO REPAY ME FOR THIS LATER. AND I’LL NEED TO TALK TO RACHEL ABOUT THIS – MAKE IT CLEAR THAT SHE DOESN’T HAVE TO PROBE THE SHRINK – THAT’S THEIR JOB. I EXPECT SHE’LL THEN ASK ME WHY SHE DID A BETTER JOB OF IT THAN THE TRAINED SHRINK. NOT SURE WHAT I’LL RESPOND TO THAT.

ROGER THANKFULLY DIDN’T TRY TO BREAK HER DOWN, BUT I DON’T KNOW IF I’D SAY HE WAS BEING ANY MORE COOPERATIVE. HIS ANSWERS WERE EVASIVE, WITH A LOT OF DOUBLE ENTENDRES AND IMPLIED STATEMENTS RATHER THAN CLEAR-CUT ANSWERS. I’M WILLING TO BET HE WAS HAVING A BLAST GETTING AWAY WITH SCREWING AROUND WITH HER. HE REMINDS ME OF MYSELF, A LITTLE. OR MAYBE MIKE. NAH, I WAS MESSING WITH PEOPLE AND BEING A FUN GUY BEFORE HE MADE IT HIS SCHTICK.

ON AN UNRELATED NOTE, I JUST RECEIVED A MESSAGE FROM HELEN - ALTHOUGH HER NAME SEEMS TO BE “ARTEMIS WEST” FOR NOW. I HAVE NO IDEA HOW SHE FIGURED OUT I WAS HERE, BUT THEN, I SHOULDN’T BE ABLE TO FIND OUT WHERE SHE IS AT ANY GIVEN TIME EITHER. ANYWAY, IT WAS NICE TO HEAR FROM HER. SHE WROTE THAT SHE IS BUSY IN LEONIS MINORIS AT THE MOMENT, BUT HINTED THAT SHE MIGHT COME BY TO VISIT EVENTUALLY. THAT’D BE GREAT – I COULD REALLY USE A FAMILIAR FACE AROUND HERE – OR AS FAMILIAR AS HER FACE CAN BE, CONSIDERING SHE CHANGES IT SO OFTEN.

HELL, IF NOTHING ELSE, I COULD JUST SHOW HER AROUND THE CAVES. THEY PROBABLY DON’T HAVE CAVES LIKE THESE IN LEONIS MINORIS.

JANUARY 5TH, 2541

2542
THINGS KEEP GOING SMOOTHLY AROUND HERE: THE DIs ARE GETTING BETTER AT THEIR JOB, THE RECRUITS ARE DEVELOPING AT A SATISFACTORY RATE, AND THE REST OF THE PROJECT PERSONNEL ARE JUST DOING THEIR DAILY ROUTINES LIKE ALWAYS. AT THIS RATE I’LL HAVE TO THINK OF SOMETHING TO SPICE THINGS UP – LEST I GET PLACID. MAYBE I’LL HAVE THE RECRUITS SEDATED AND WAKE UP IN CELLS. IT COULD TEST THEIR IMPROVISATION SKILLS AND SATE MY CURIOSITY FOR WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF SPARTANS WERE CAPTURED. I’LL HAVE TO CHECK WITH DEAN AND STANDOFF IF WE HAVE ENOUGH SUCH FACILITIES.

EVEN NOW THERE’S BEEN A COUPLE SURPRISES THOUGH. FIRST A SOMEWHAT UNPLEASANT ONE: MORIARTY CONTACTED ME. IT WAS MOSTLY AN EFFORT TO TRY TO SQUEEZE INTEL ABOUT THE PROJECT FROM ME – I THINK HE’S JEALOUS THAT RICH DIDN’T PUT HIM IN CHARGE – BUT NEAR THE END, HE OFFERED HIS CONDOLENCES AND INFORMED ME [WYVERN] FELL IN BATTLE. RUN THROUGH BY AN ENERGY SWORD WHILE SHOOTING HIS WAY THROUGH THE RESPONSIBLE ELITE GENERAL’S STAFF AND BODYGUARDS. IT’S SUCH A DAMN SHAME. ONE WOULD HAVE HOPED THAT HE AT LEAST WOULD OUTLIVE BLIGHTBLOOD. BUT NO SUCH LUCK, APPARENTLY.

A MORE PLEASANT SURPRISE: HELEN FINALLY VISITED. SHE INTRODUCED HERSELF AS "DEMETER COSTAS" AND HAD LONG, BLONDE HAIR IN A PONYTAIL THIS TIME, BUT I KNEW IT WAS HER. WE TALKED FOR A BIT, I SHOWED HER AROUND THE BASE, AND WE EVADED A COUPLE OF SMITTEN DIs. IT’S GREAT TO HAVE A FRIEND TO TALK TO FROM TIME TO TIME – ONE WHO ACTUALLY CARES ABOUT WHAT YOU THINK AND UNDERSTANDS YOU. I COULD HAVE DONE WITHOUT MEETING CRIMSON IN THE HALLWAY, THOUGH. FOR ONE, THEY DIDN’T BUY HELEN’S MADE-UP REASON FOR BEING HERE AND NEARLY STARTED BLABBERING ABOUT IT TO EVERYONE ELSE (I THINK THEY REFRAINED ONLY BECAUSE THEY LIKED SEEING ME BEG). NOT TO MENTION THEIR INANE PROBING QUESTIONS (I USUALLY FIND THEIR CURIOSITY ADORABLE, BUT NOT WHEN A WORD SPOKEN OUT OF TURN COULD HAVE RESULTED IN HELEN BEING THROWN OUT, OR WORSE).

THAT MINOR HICCUP ASIDE, IT WAS A GOOD DAY. I DIDN’T GET TO SHOW HER THE CAVES, BUT THAT’S ALRIGHT – IT WAS ENOUGH EXPLORING HER CAVE AGAIN.

WOW, THAT WAS A BAD PUN, EVEN FOR ME. I HOPE NOBODY ELSE WILL READ THIS. HELEN WOULD NEVER LET ME HEAR THE END OF IT. CRIMSON NEITHER. THOUGH WITH MY LUCK, BOTH OF THEM WILL PROBABLY BE READING IT SOON. GUESS IT’S MY OWN DAMN FAULT FOR WRITING A JOURNAL IN THE FIRST PLACE.

FEBRUARY 24TH, 2542

2543
IF I EVER HAD ANY DOUBTS IN THE NECESSITY OF THIS PROJECT LEFT – THEY DISSIPATED ONCE I HEARD THE NEWS.

ADMIRAL PRESTON COLE IS DEAD.

TRUE, BEFORE HE DID, HE TOOK DOWN ALMOST AS MANY COVENANT SHIPS AS HE’S DESTROYED THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRETY OF HIS CAREER COMBINED – WITH MINIMAL CASUALTIES, NO LESS. BUT THE BATTLE OF PSI SERPENTIS WILL STILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS A DARK DAY FOR HUMANITY. PRESTON COLE WAS THE ONLY MAN TO CONSISTENTLY ACHIEVE CONVENTIONAL VICTORIES AGAINST THE COVENANT – WITH STAGGERING CASUALTIES, BUT STILL, HE WON BATTLES AGAINST THEM LIKE NO OTHER MAN OR WOMAN IN THE UNSC EVER HAS. I NEVER MET THE MAN IN PERSON, BUT I WAS STILL TAKEN ABACK BY THE NEWS (I DON’T EVEN HAVE AN INAPPROPRIATE JOKE FOR THIS OCCASION). THINGS ARE GOING TO GET DESPERATE.

ONI’S TRYING TO MITIGATE THE FALLOUT BY TURNING COLE INTO A MARTYR, AND NO DOUBT THEY WILL TRY TO PROP UP SOMEONE ELSE AS THE NEXT BIG HERO – ADMIRAL CARL PATTERSON, REAR ADMIRAL FARAJI AGAHOWA, VICE ADMIRAL IRVING IGNATIUS, OR EVEN MICHAEL STANFORTH, IF THEY WANT TO KEEP IT IN-HOUSE. NO DOUBT ALL OF THESE MEN ARE FINE FLEET COMMANDERS, BUT I DOUBT ANY OF THEM WILL BE ABLE TO FILL THE VOID LEFT BY COLE. WHICH MEANS IT’S ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE THE COVENANT START SWARMING INTO THE INNER COLONIES.

WHICH IS WHERE OUR RECRUITS COME IN. WITH COLE GONE, SO IS OUR CHANCES FOR CONSISTENT CONVENTIONAL VICTORIES. I FULLY REALIZE NOW THAT OUR ONLY WAY TO MAKE UP FOR THE ADMIRAL’S DEATH IS THROUGH INCREASED EMPHASIS ON UNCONVENTIONAL UNITS. WE NEED THESE KIDS NOW MORE THAN EVER. MUCH AS IT NAGS AT ME HAVING TO SEND SOME OF THEM OUT TO WAR – UNSURPRISINGLY, I’VE GROWN ATTACHED TO THE TYKES – I DON’T SEE ANY OTHER REAL CHOICE.

SOME OF THE DIs SUGGESTED WE KEEP COLE’S FATE SECRET FROM THE TRAINEES, FOR NOW, LEST THEY BE DISTRACTED. I SUGGESTED THEY LET ME MAKE THAT CALL. TRUE, WE DON’T WANT THEM DISTRACTED – BUT I WON’T SEND THEM OUT TO FIGHT UNLESS THEY KNOW EXACTLY WHAT’S EXPECTED OF THEM. AND OUR EXPECTATIONS ON THEM HAS A LOT TO DO WITH COLE’S DEMISE – BECAUSE THEIR BURDEN WILL BE SO MUCH HARDER THAN INITIALLY PROJECTED. BUT COLE CAN ALSO BE A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION – FOR STRATEGIC BRILLIANCE, TENACITY IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY, OR EVEN AS A SYMBOL OF WHAT WE’RE FIGHTING FOR. FOR BETTER OR FOR WORSE, THE RECRUITS WILL KNOW WHY THEY ARE NEEDED, AND WHAT FOR. BECAUSE KNOWING THIS JUST MIGHT GIVE THEM A BETTER CHANCE OF SURVIVAL – AND WE CAN’T AFFORD TO WANTONLY LOSE SPARTANS LIKE WE LOSE OUR FLEETS.

MAY 21ST, 2543

2548
GODDAMN IT.

DAMN IT ALL TO HELL.

I THOUGHT I WAS READY FOR THIS. THAT I COULD HANDLE IT – I MEAN, I LIVED THROUGH IT ONCE ALREADY. I KNEW MANY WERE GOING TO DIE. I KNEW MANY WERE GOING TO WIND UP SCARRED – PERHAPS FOREVER. I SPENT MOST OF THIS WHOLE MONTH MENTALLY PREPARING MYSELF FOR THE INEVITABLE. I KEPT UP MY CHIPPER, POSITIVE DEMEANOR – I ALREADY KNEW WHAT WAS GOING TO HAPPEN, SO I COULD ONLY BE PLEASANTLY SURPRISED, RIGHT?

BUT DAMN. WHEN I SAW THE CORPSES – SOME MUTILATED ALMOST BEYOND RECOGNITION, OTHERS DISTURBINGLY NORMAL-LOOKING – AARON SHAKING UNCONTROLLABLY, BALDUIN’S SKIN TORN OPEN BY CATASTROPHIC MUSCLE GROWTH, AND MELINDA’S DESTROYED BODY FLOATING FREELY IN A HEALING TANK...

GOD.

DID THE PARENTS OF THE RECRUITS WE CONSCRIPTED – NO, KIDNAPPED – FEEL LIKE THIS WHEN THE FLASH-CLONES OF THEIR CHILDREN DIED? DID MY PARENTS FEEL LIKE THIS WHEN THEY SAW MY BODY GIVING UP IN FRONT OF THEM?

THEY WERE MY KIDS. I KNOW WE TOOK THEM FROM THEIR HOMES TO TURN THEM INTO LIVING WEAPONS AND OFFERED THEM UP TO THE HUNGRY JAWS OF CHANCE LIKE PIGS TO THE SLAUGHTERHOUSE. BUT DAMN IT – THEY WERE NEVER JUST SOLDIERS TO ME – THEY WERE MY KIDS. MINE, DEAN’S AND GRIFF’S. THEY DESERVED BETTER THAN THIS. I FAILED THEM.

IF THERE IS A GOD – OR GODS, OR UNIVERSAL SPIRIT, OR A WHEEL OF REINCARNATION, OR WHATEVER – THEN HE/SHE/IT/THEY CAN GO FUCK OFF – SERIOUSLY. NO DEITY SHOULD ALLOW SOMETHING LIKE THIS TO HAPPEN. AND IF IT DID, THEN IT’S NOT WORTHY OF WORSHIP.

I WONDER IF CASSANDRA WOULD HAVE SAID THE SAME THING. SHE ALWAYS HAD FAITH. WOULD SHE LOSE IT AFTER SEEING THIS HAPPEN AGAIN? WHAT WOULD RIKER THINK NOW? JOHN? KURT? MARIA? RANDALL? HELL, WHAT WOULD LEONID THINK? EVEN HE WOULDN’T THINK THIS IS FAIR, WOULD HE? ONLY A COMPLETE MONSTER LIKE [BLIGHTBLOOD] WOULD THINK THAT, RIGHT?

I JUST WISH...

I JUST...

I...

I NEED A DRINK. OR A GUN.

JULY 27TH, 2548

AN UNKNOWN NUMBER OF BOTTLES OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES. AN UNBELIEVABLE HEADACHE. SEVERAL BROKEN TRAINING WEIGHTS. BROKEN MIRRORS. A FIST FIGHT WITH THE EX-ORION CHIEF DRILL INSTRUCTOR. A STERN CHEWING OUT BY THE SAME MAN. A NURSE WITH HURT FEELINGS.

BUT AT LEAST I KNOW WHAT I NEED TO DO NOW. AND IT DOESN’T INVOLVE A GUN.

I HAVE TO BE THERE FOR THOSE WHO STILL LIVE. THEY NEED ME, NOW MORE THAN EVER. IT WON’T DO THEM ANY GOOD IF I GET DRUNK LIKE AN EARTHBORN HOBO OR PUT A BULLET THROUGH MY SKULL. THAT KIND OF THINKING IS FOR THOSE WHO DON’T HAVE ANYTHING LEFT TO LIVE FOR OR COWARDS. I AM MANY THINGS, BUT I’M NOT EITHER OF THOSE. I HAVE SOMETHING TO LIVE FOR. RACHEL, CONNOR, BALDUIN, ROGER, JAMES, MICA, RICKY AND ALL THE OTHERS WHO STILL LIVE. THEY LOST THEIR BROTHERS AND SISTERS, BUT THEY DIDN’T GET DRUNK OR KILL THEMSELVES. SOME OF THEM MAY NEVER SERVE AGAIN, BUT THEY DIDN’T GET DRUNK OR KILL THEMSELVES. SO WHY SHOULD I?

AND I’M GOING TO BE THERE FOR THEM. NOT JUST BECAUSE THEY NEED ME, BUT BECAUSE I NEED THEM TOO.

AND I’M GOING TO THANK DEAN FOR SMASHING MY NOSE. I COULDN’T HAVE ASKED FOR A BETTER TIME FOR HIM TO DO THAT.

AND I’M GOING TO TALK TO GRIFF. HE’S PROBABLY GOING THROUGH THE SAME THING AS ME AT THE MOMENT. THOUGH I HOPE HE DIDN’T HEAR ABOUT MY ACTIONS YESTERDAY.

JULY 28TH, 2548

TALKED TO BALDUIN, AARON, MELINDA AND THE OTHER “FAILED” AUGMENTEES TODAY. I ASSURED THEM WE WERE LOOKING INTO WAYS TO FIX THEM UP – REMOVING EXPONENTIAL MUSCLE TISSUE OR SKELETAL GROWTHS THROUGH SURGERY, [THERMOPYLAE] IMPLANTS, ALL THAT JUICY, EXPENSIVE STUFF – AND THAT, FAILING THAT, NOBODY THOUGHT LESS OF THEM FOR “FAILING”. BOTH OF THOSE THINGS ARE TRUE, AND THEY SEEMED TO BELIEVE ME. THEY AT LEAST SMILED (THOSE WHO COULD, ANYWAY) WHEN I LEFT THEM. BUT WHO KNOWS WHAT THEY THINK WHILE STEWING ALONE, THINKING ABOUT THEIR COMRADES WHO ARE ALREADY MAKING PREPARATIONS TO HEAD OFF TO WAR. OR THOSE WHO ARE DEAD. I’LL MAKE SURE THE PROJECT’S PSYCHIATRISTS STICK AROUND AND MONITOR THEM CLOSELY – JUST IN CASE.

ALSO CHECKED UP ON THOSE WHO MADE IT. CONNOR WAS DEVASTATED. RACHEL – GRUFF, TOUGH, ALMOST CRAZY RACHEL – LOOKED LIKE SHE HAD BEEN CRYING. EVEN GREG LOOKED SAD, AND HE’S NEVER SEEMED LIKE HE CARED ABOUT ANYONE. I TALKED TO THEM FOR HOURS, ONE TEAM AT A TIME. MOST SEEMED TO APPRECIATE IT – GREG TOLD ME TO SCREW MYSELF. RACHEL DIDN’T SAY ANYTHING AT ALL. BUT I THINK IT HELPED. I FEEL BETTER AT LEAST.

I STILL NEED TO TALK TO GRIFF, THOUGH. HIS OFFICE DOOR WAS LOCKED. I COULD PROBABLY HAVE HACKED THE LOCK OR BROKEN THE DOOR DOWN – OR JUST KNOCKED, BUT I DIDN’T WANT TO FORCE MYSELF ON HIM. I HOPE HE’LL WANT TO TALK TOMORROW.

ALSO RECEIVED A MESSAGE FROM [MORIARTY] – EXPRESSING RELIEF THAT A NEW WAVE OF SPARTANS WILL BE IN THE FIELD SOON. ESPECIALLY SPARTANS UNDER THE COVERT OPS GROUP’S/DELTA-4 DIVISION’S JURISDICTION. AS RICH’S XO, IT IS NO SURPRISE THAT’S HIGHEST ON HIS PRIORITY LIST. I STILL MIGHT HAVE TRIED TO STRANGLE HIM IF HE HAD SAID IT TO ME IN PERSON, THOUGH. I HAVE NEGLECTED TO REPLY YET – HE WILL NO DOUBT BE MY BOSS IN A FEW YEARS. TELLING HIM I’D LIKE NOTHING MORE THAN TO KILL HIM FOR SPEAKING IN POOR TASTE ABOUT MY MEN WOULD NOT BE CONDUCIVE TO MY CONTINUED CAREER.

JULY 29TH, 2548

BALDUIN AND MELINDA FINALLY GOT TO UNDERGO SURGERY. I’M NOT GOING TO LIE, I WAS VERY AFRAID OF THIS MOMENT, EVEN AS I DID EVERYTHING IN MY POWER TO MAKE IT HAPPEN. WHAT IF THE DOCTOR WAS SLOPPY? WHAT IF THE SURGERY SIMPLY FAILED? THE SURGERY COULD HAVE MADE THINGS EVEN WORSE THAN BEFORE.

IT TURNS OUT MY CONCERN WAS UNNECESSARY. THE SURGERY SEEMS TO HAVE WORKED AND THE TWO ARE IN STABLE CONDITION. MELINDA PROBABLY NEEDS SEVERAL MORE MONTHS ON THE OPERATING TABLE – MAYBE A YEAR IF SHE’S UNLUCKY – AND AN EQUALLY LONG PERIOD READJUSTING TO HER REPAIRED BODY, AND BALDUIN WILL NEED A PROSTHETIC LEG, BUT THEY ARE ON THE WAY TO RECOVERY. SUFFICE TO SAY, I AM VERY RELIEVED. I CAN’T WAIT TO INFORM THEIR RESPECTIVE TEAMS OF THIS.

I HAVE TOLD THE DOCTORS TO PROCEED WITH THE OTHERS TOO. AARON HAS A VERY LOW PROBABILITY OF SUCCESS, BUT HE EXPLICITLY ASKED ME TO VOLUNTEER HIM FOR SURGERY IF IT WORKED ON BAL AND MEL. HE’S BEEN EVEN MORE DESPERATE THAN USUAL EVER SINCE I INFORMED HIM OF HIS TEAM’S FATE. I DON’T KNOW IF I CAN BLAME HIM, THOUGH. RACHEL’S OUT THERE, SOMEWHERE, BEING BARTERED AROUND BY RICH TO NAVCOM OFFICERS LIKE A PIECE OF MEAT – ALL ALONE. BOTH AARON AND I FEAR HE’S GOING TO SNAP SOON – IF SHE HASN’T ALREADY – UNLESS SOMEONE CAN GET OUT THERE AND HELP HER SOON.

STILL, I THINK AARON’S JUST FILLED WITH FALSE HOPE. I TOLD HIM SO WHEN HE SAID HE WANTED THE SURGERY – TREATMENTS FOR PARKINSON’S SYNDROME IS MOSTLY INEFFECTUAL AT BEST, LIFE-THREATENING AT WORST. BUT HE DIDN’T LISTEN TO ME. FOR BETTER OR FOR WORSE, HIS DESIRE TO GET BACK OUT THERE FOR RACHEL’S SAKE SEEMS TO BE THE ONLY THING KEEPING HIM GOING AT THIS POINT.

I JUST WISH I COULD BE HERE FOR THEM ALL, BUT I HAVE BEEN CALLED BACK TO THE FRONT FOR A MISSION ON NEW JAKARTA. IT SEEMS THE COVENANT DECIDED TO SET UP A MINING OPERATION THERE RATHER THAN GLASS THE PLANET OUTRIGHT. A BATTLEGROUP HAS BEEN ASSEMBLED TO RETAKE THE PLANET ALONG WITH ITS VALUABLE MINERALS, BUT MORIARTY WANTS ME AND [BLIGHTBLOOD] TO MAKE THE INVASION EASIER BY SOWING DISSENT BETWEEN THE LOCAL BRUTE AND ELITE FORCES. I SINCERELY HOPED I WOULD NEVER HAVE TO WORK WITH THE GUY AGAIN, BUT AT LEAST THERE WON’T BE ANY PREGNANT WOMEN FOR HIM TO CUT OPEN.

OCTOBER 11TH, 2548

SOMETIMES LIFE WILL THROW YOU PLEASANT SURPRISES. LIKE HOW BALDUIN IS RECOVERING SWIFTLY AND WILL SOON BE ABLE TO JOIN HIS TEAM AGAIN.

OTHER TIMES, IT SEEMS LIKE LIFE WANTS TO SCREW WITH YOU. LIKE HOW AARON WAS FOUND IN HIS ROOM WITH A SCALPEL THROUGH HIS SKULL.

DEEP DOWN, I KNEW AARON WOULD NOT RECOVER. I KNEW HE WOULD NOT TAKE IT WELL – THAT HE MIGHT EVEN GIVE UP, DEEMING HIS LIFE NOT WORTH LIVING ANYMORE. BUT IT STILL HURTS, SO MUCH. ANOTHER OF MY KIDS, DEAD.

I WONDERED FOR A WHILE IF IT WOULD HAVE BEEN DIFFERENT IF I HAD BEEN THERE. IF I COULD HAVE TALKED HIM OUT OF IT. BUT HONESTLY, THINKING ABOUT IT – I DON’T SEE HOW. HE WAS ALWAYS SO AFRAID OF NOT BEING STRONG ENOUGH, OF BEING A LIABILITY. AND NOW, HIS ONE HOPE, THAT OF RECOVERING FROM HIS CONDITION AND FINALLY GETTING TO SERVE LIKE HE WAS SUPPOSED TO, WAS DASHED. I DON’T THINK HE WOULD HAVE LISTENED IF I TOLD HIM HE WASN’T WORTHLESS AFTER THAT.

AT LEAST THE NEW JAKARTA OP WAS SUCCESSFUL. AND MUCH AS IT MAKES ME HURL TO SAY IT, BLIGHTBLOOD WAS ACTUALLY VERY SUITABLE FOR THIS OP – THE STUFF HE DID TO THE ELITE COMMANDER’S BODY WAS SO BRUTAL THAT THE OTHERS NEVER EVEN CONSIDERED THE POSSIBILITY OF A HUMAN COMMITTING IT, IMMEDIATELY BLAMING THE BRUTES INSTEAD. SUFFICE TO SAY, COVENANT FORCES WERE QUITE BUSY TEARING EACH OTHER APART BY THE TIME REAR ADMIRAL FARAJI AGAHOWA’S BATTLEGROUP ARRIVED. A SMALL VICTORY AT LEAST.

DECEMBER 19TH, 2548

2550
WELL, I FINALLY FOUND RACHEL. SHE WAS ON HER WAY FOR AN ASSASSINATION OP AGAINST INNIES WAY OUT IN THE OUTER COLONIES. I REALLY DON’T KNOW WHY WE BOTHER HUNTING REBELS OUT THERE ANYMORE, OR WHY AN AGGRESSIVE CLOSE QUARTERS SPECIALIST WAS DEEMED FITTING FOR AN ASSASSINATION OP, BUT AT LEAST I FOUND HER.

SHE WAS SURPRISED TO SEE ME, BUT RELIEVED. SUFFICE TO SAY, IT’S A RELIEF TO KNOW SHE STILL HAS RESPECT FOR ME EVEN AFTER TWO YEARS – TWO YEARS OF LOSING COMRADES, CHANGING SUPERIOR OFFICERS LIKE UNDERWEAR AND REPEATEDLY BEING SENT ON HIGH-RISK MISSIONS WITH NO BREAKS OR THERAPY. SHE SEEMS MORE BRUTAL, CRUEL AND ON EDGE THAN BEFORE, BUT AT LEAST SHE HASN’T FULLY SNAPPED YET.

I HAVE SENT HER TO GET SOME THERAPY AND INSTRUCTED BLIGHTBLOOD TO TAKE OVER THE ASSASSINATION OP. HE LIKES KILLING PEOPLE, SO HE AGREED - THANK GOD FOR SMALL MERCIES.

THEN, IT’S JUST A MATTER OF REINTRODUCING HER TO BAL, INTRODUCE HER TO DARCY AND SILVIE – AND TELL HER THEY’RE CHARLIE TWOS – AND INFORM HER SHE’S NOW PART OF SPECWARCOM GROUP 5/SIENNA TEAM – OPERATING BEHIND RICH’S BACK, BUT AT LEAST NOW SHE AND BAL HAVE A CHANCE OF MAINTAINING THEIR SANITY. WORKING TOGETHER WITH OTHERS WHO HAVE LOST THEIR TEAMMATES AND GUIDED BY THEIR RESPECT FOR ME WILL HOPEFULLY DO THEM GOOD. PLUS, SPECWARCOM IS THANKFULLY NOT AS HARSH AS ONI.

IT’S A SHAME I CAN’T INFORM GRIFF OF THIS, THOUGH. I KNOW A MESSAGE FROM ME WOULD BE THE SAME AS YELLING IN RICH’S FACE THAT I’M NOT OUT ON A BEHIND-THE-LINES OP AS I’M SUPPOSED TO BE, BUT I’M SURE THE OLD COLONEL WOULD APPRECIATE KNOWING THAT BAL AND RACHEL ARE IN GOOD COMPANY. AND MORIARTY BELIEVES HE’S ALREADY TAKEN ENOUGH RISKS HELPING ME FORM THE TEAM WITHOUT RICH’S KNOWLEDGE TO HELP ME CONTACT HIM. AT LEAST NOT UNTIL RICH IS DEAD – AND MUCH AS I DISLIKE RICH, I DON’T LIKE THE IDEA OF MURDERING HIM TO GET MORIARTY INTO HIS SEAT. I’LL JUST HAVE TO HOPE I CAN ARRANGE FOR A MEETING WITH GRIFF IN PERSON AT SOME POINT – OR FOR RICH TO CROAK NATURALLY.

I HOPE HE WILL FORGIVE ME WHEN HE FINDS OUT – IF HE FINDS OUT.

AUGUST 12TH, 2550

2540
I MENTIONED YESTERDAY THAT WHEN I ENTERED THE BARRACKS I FOUND I'D BEEN TRANSFERRED, BUT TODAY I FOUND OUT THE REAL DETAILS. AND I HAVE TO SAY, IT DOESN'T LOOK GOOD. I'M REALLY STARTING TO REGRET THAT SCIENCE DEGREE, AND AM SORELY REGRETTING MY LAST PROMOTION. ONI'S ENROLLED ME INTO SOME TOP SECRET PROJECT OF THEIRS, ARES, AND I'VE BEEN GETTING THE WHOLE BREIFING. LOOKS LIKE THINGS WITH COVENANT ARE EVEN WORSE THAN WE'VE BEEN TOLD, AND, PREDICTABLY, THAT MEANS ONI'S LOOKING FOR A MAGIC BULLET. APPARENTLY, ALOT OF BRASS THINK THAT BULLET IS THE SPARTANS--EXCUSE, ME, THE SIERRAS. THEY'VE APPROVED ANOTHER PROJECT, AND GUESS WHO THEY PICKED TO LEAD IT. THEY SAY THESE SPARTANS ARE OUR LAST, BEST HOPE, AND WHILE I DOUBT IT'S TRUE, I KNOW I'M NEEDED. I'VE AGREED, AND THEY'RE TRANSFERRING ME TO THE PROWLER DESCENT INTO DARKNESS TO SEARCH OUT THE CANDIDATES. I HAVEN'T BEEN TOLD WHO THEY ARE, BUT I'VE GOT TOP SECURITY CLEARANCE NOW, AND I'VE LOOKED INTO THE ORIGINAL CHARLIE ONE SIERRAS. I CAN GUESS WHATS NEXT.

WE'RE SCHEDULED TO ARRIVE AT THE FIRST PLANET ON THE FIFTH, SO THAT MEANS CRYO ISN'T NECCESSARY. I'M STUCK IN A SHIP FULL OF SPOOKS FOR THE FORSEEABLE FUTURE, AND EVERYTHING SEEMS TO BE SECRET. IT'S ALREADY IRRITATING ME, BUT IF THATS WHAT IT TAKES TO WIN THE WAR, IT'S A SACRIFICE I'LL HAVE TO MAKE. I JUST HOPE I DON'T SCREW THIS UP.

MARCH 2ND, 2540

HARD TO BELIEVE OVER A MONTH HAS PASSED SINCE I STARTED THIS INFERNAL ASSIGNMENT. IF I‘D KNOWN ALL THIS WOULD FOLLOW, I WOULD NEVER HAVE ACCEPTED. I‘M STILL LEARNING TO USE MY NEW, VERY EXPANSIVE SET OF SECURITY CLEARANCES, AND ONI ISN‘T BEING VERY FREE WITH INFORMATION, BUT I‘VE LEARNED ENOUGH. THESE KIDS AREN‘T GOING TO LIVE HAPPY LIVES, ANY OF THEM. I‘M SETTING THEM UP FOR A LIFE OF PAIN JUST BY TALKING TO THEM. MY SUPERIORS, WHOEVER THEY ARE, TELL ME IT HAS TO BE DONE FOR OUR SURVIVAL. EVEN IF IT‘S TRUE, ITS STILL A TERRIBLE RESPONSIBILITY.

I‘VE BEEN MEETING WITH CANDIATES ALMOST ON A DAILY BASIS, TRYING TO GET TO AS MANY OF THEM AS I CAN AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE. THE COVENANT CONTINUE TO ENCROACH ON OUR TERRITORY, AND WE‘VE ALREADY LOST SEVERAL CANDIDATES TO RAIDS AND ATTACKS. IF WE DON’T HURRY, THERE WON’T BE ANYONE LEFT FOR THE PROGRAM. WE’VE BEEN HOPSCOTCHING FROM PLANET TO PLANET, AND LUCKILY MOST OF THE CANDIDATES HAVE BEEN CLUSTERED IN NEARBY SYSTEMS.

THE COVENANT IS ADVANCING RAPIDLY THROUGH THIS SECTOR, AND THERE AREN‘T ENOUGH FORCES HERE TO DEFEND IT. WE‘VE ALREADY HAD TO DODGE AROUND COVENANT PATROLS, AND WE‘VE HAD SOME CLOSE CALLS ON THE SURFACE AS WELL. ONI SAYS WE CAN‘T TAKE ANY CANDIDATES WITH US RIGHT NOW, BUT I’VE MADE IT VERY CLEAR TO THE ONBOARD INTELLIGENCE PERSONEL THAT IF ANY OF THE CANDIDATES ARE IN DANGER, WE’LL BE EXTRACTING THEM IMMEDIATELY. I’M NOT LETTING THE COVENANT GET TO ONE OF OUR KIDS WHEN WE CAN SAVE THEM JUST AS EASILY.

APRIL 3RD, 2540

TODAY WE HAD OUR CLOSEST RUN IN YET WITH THE COVENANT. WE WERE INTERVIEWING ONE OF THE CANDIDATES---[S-347], JENNIFER (I JUST CAN’T BRING MYSELF TO CALL THEM “TEST SUBJECTS”---HALSEY MUST HAVE BEEN DEAD INSIDE TO DO THAT---I’M NOT THAT FAR GONE YET)---WHEN THE ALIENS LAUNCHED A SURPRISE ATTACK. TWO CRUISERS SLIPPED IN SYSTEM STRAIGHT UNDER THE ORBITAL DEFENSES AND IMMEDIATELY LAUNCHED TROOPS. PURE PANIC ENGULFED THE ENTIRE CITY. THEY LED THEIR ATTACK WITH BANSHEES, BUT IT WASN’T LONG BEFORE THEIR DROPSHIPS ENTERED THE MIX. WE HAD TO GRAB [S-347] THEN AND THERE, STRAIGHT OUT OF HOMEROOM---HER PARENTS ARE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BIG BIGSHOTS, SO WE CLAIMED WE WERE MILITARY AND GOT MANAGED TO GET AWAY WITH IT. I CHECKED THE LIST, AND HER PARENTS MADE IT OUT ALIVE---BUT THE REST OF THE CLASS DIDN’T, SO THE PARENTS WILL LIKELY BELIEVE SHE WAS KILLED WITH THE REST. I FEEL AWFUL ABOUT IT, BUT FROM WHAT I’VE READ OF THE CHARLIES ONES, WE MAY ACTUALLY BE SPARING THEM SOME PAIN. FLASH CLONE DECAY ISN’T PRETTY.

[S-347] IS STILL IN SHOCK, SO WE’VE GOT HER SEDATED AND WILL LIKELY PLACE HER IN CRYO FOR THE DURATION OF THE TRIP. SHE WAS A REAL FIRECRACKER WHEN I INTERVIEWED HER AT THE SCHOOL, WITH A BIT OF A MOUTH AND A BIG EGO FOR A SIX YEAR OLD. MONEY BREEDS IT, APPARENTLY. WHO KNOWS IF SHE’LL STILL HAVE IT WHEN SHE WAKES UP, BUT AT LEAST SHE’S MOTIVATED NOW. IT’S THE ONLY GOOD THING I’VE BEEN ABLE TO FIND IN THIS WHOLE DAMN AFFAIR. MY ACTIONS ARE IN DIRECT CONTRADICTION OF ONI’S ORDERS, BUT I DON’T THINK THE SPOOKS WILL TOUCH ME, AND EVEN IF THEY DO, I DON’T CARE. I SAVED A LIFE TODAY, AND THAT’S ALL THAT MATTERS. IT FEELS GOOD TO HAVE SOMETHING POSITIVE AGAINST THE UNRELENTING NEGATIVE OF THIS POSTING.

APRIL 23RD, 2540

CANDIDATE EXAMINATIONS CONTINUE AT BREAKNECK SPEED, AND I ABSOLUTELY HATE TO SAY IT, BUT I THINK I’M GETTING USED TO IT. WE’VE HAD TO EXTRACT ANOTHER CANDIDATE SINCE [S-347], AND MY SUPERIORS ARE PISSED, BUT SOME TOP SHOT BY THE NAME OF NOVEMBER ROMEO HAS KEPT THEM AT BAY. I DON’T KNOW WHO HE IS, BUT HE’S GOT TO HAVE SOME CLOUT TO PULL THIS OFF. I’M STARTING TO GRASP THE BASICS OF THIS POLITICAL STUFF, BUT IT’S A BIG TRANSITION FOR A GROUND POUNDER LIKE ME. IT’S GOING TO TAKE A LONG TIME. HOPEFULLY I CAN KEEP SOME ALLIES LIKE HIM TO HELP MAKE UP FOR MY SHORTCOMINGS.

I INTERVIEWED ANOTHER CANDIDATE TODAY, AND IT JUST SO HAPPENED TO BE HIS BIRTHDAY. IT WAS A WEIRD AND FRIGHTENING DISCONNECTION; HE WAS IN THE MIDST OF A PARTY (ALBEIT A SOMEWHAT STRUGGLING ONE---HIS PARENTS ARE NOT THE MOST FORTUNATE) AND THERE I WAS, PLOTTING TO TAKE HIM AWAY. AS IF I DIDN’T FEEL TERRIBLE ENOUGH. LOGISTICALLY, IT WAS AN ANNOYING INTERRUPTION, PUTTING US BEHIND SCHEDULE, BUT THAT WAS HARDLY MY BIGGEST CONCERN. I WISH I’D NEVER AGREED TO THIS DAMN JOB.

THE CANDIDATE I TALKED TO, HOWEVER, WAS INTERESTING. FROM THE MOMENT I MET HIM (NOT WHEN I SAW HIM BLOWING OUT HIS CANDLES, BUT WHEN I ACTUALLY MANAGED TO SPEAK WITH HIM), HE SEEMED…DIFFERENT. THERE WAS SOMETHING ABOUT HIM I COULD JUST SENSE. HE’S GOING TO BE GOOD. THERE ARE SOME DEFINITE PHSYICAL TEST THAT SHOWED HE HAS STRONG POTENTIAL---HE’S SMART, CREATIVE, AND HAS DEXTERITY SCORES THAT ARE NEARLY OFF THE CHARTS---BUT THERES MORE. HE SEEMS INNATELY DIFFERENT. I’VE NOTICED THIS BEFORE, IN SOME OF THE OTHER CANDIDATES, BUT IT WAS ESPECIALLY CLEAR IN HIM. I’VE SENT A QUERY TO ONI ABOUT HIM, EVEN THOUGH I’M NOT EXACTLY SURE WHAT’S SO SPECIAL ABOUT HIM. HOPEFULLY I WON’T SOUND LIKE A CRAZY PERSON, ASKING ABOUT A KID FOR NO REASON AT ALL.

MAY 14TH, 2540

I KEEP FINDING OUT MORE DETAILS ABOUT THIS PROJECT, AND THE MORE I FIND OUT, THE LESS I LIKE IT. THAT SAME NOVEMBER ROMEO HAS BEEN SLOWLY UPDATING ME WITH INFORMATION RELATIVE TO THE PROGRAM, THOUGH I’M FORCED TO FILL IN A LOT OF THE BLANKS THROUGH MY OWN SEARCHES IN MY SPARE TIME (WHAT LITTLE I HAVE OF IT, ANYWAY). THE COVENANT, OF COURSE, CONTINUE THEIR ATTACKS; WHAT WAS LEFT OF THE AUGUSTUS SYSTEM AFTER THEIR ASSUALT LAST APRIL IS NOW A BURNING BALL OF GLASS. WE LOST THREE CANDIDATES IN THAT LAST RAID, AND ANOTHER ONE IS MISSING. I DOUBT WE’LL HAVE MORE THAN FIFTY CANDIDATES FOR THE ENTIRE PROGRAM, AT THIS RATE. I GUESS WE’LL HAVE TO MAKE DO WITH WHAT WE HAVE LEFT.

IN THE MEANTIME, I’M INTERVIEWING CANDIDATES AS FAST AS I CAN. THE INTERVIEWS ARE NOTHING MORE THAN A FORMALITY NOW---WE’RE TAKING EVERYONE WE CAN GET, EVEN THOSE WHO LIKELY CAN’T CUT IT---BUT ONI INSISTS. MORE OF THEIR DAMN BUCREATIC BULLSHIT. AS IF THIS WHOLE THING WASN’T ALREADY BAD ENOUGH. AT LEAST THE CANDIDATE SELECTION PROCESS IS ALMOST OVER. MAYBE I’LL FEEL BETTER THEN. IT’S A SLIM HOPE, BUT I NEED SOMETHING TO HOLD ONTO.

ON AN UNRELATED NOTE, I WAS INTERVIEWING ANOTHER CANDIDATE TODAY AND HAD THE SAME ODD EXPERIENCE I HAD WITH [S-338]. HER TAG NUMBERS WERE CONFUSING---OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS REFERRED TO HER AS BOTH 343 AND 358, AND EVEN MIXED UP HER GENDER A FEW TIMES---BUT I COULD SENSE SOMETHING ABOUT HER, JUST LIKE THE OTHER. THERE’S SOMETHING DIFFERENT, SOMETHING SPECIAL, THAT I CAN’T QUITE PUT MY FINGER ON. HER FAMILY IS SLOWLY FRAGMENTING, SO WE MAY ACTUALLY BE DOING HER A FAVOR BY GIVING HER A WAY OUT, BUT SOMEHOW, ALL I CAN THINK ABOUT WHEN I’M REVIEWING HER IS THAT ODD FEELING (AND I‘M ALSO ADMITTEDLY A LITTLE DISTRACTED BY HER APPARENT LOVE OF FIRE---SHE HAD TWO SEPARATE LIGHTERS OUT WHEN I VISITED---MAYBE SHE‘LL TAKE A LIKING TO THE M7057). LIKE THE OTHER, SHE’S GOT ALL THE PHYSICAL INDICATORS OF STRONG POTENTIAL, BUT I’M SURE I’M SENSING SOMETHING DIFFERENT. ONI HAS YET TO REPLY TO MY QUERY, SO I’M EAGERLY AWAITING THEIR RESPONSE.

MAY 27TH, 2540

TODAY I GAVE THE ORDER. THE “RECRUITMENT” AGENTS HAVE BEEN DISPATCHED, AND THEY’RE DUE BACK HERE IN A FEW WEEKS. IT’S SO ODD, TO SURREAL, EVEN NOW. I CAN’T GET PAST HOW EASY IT WAS, HOW NATURAL. ONE ORDER AND DOZENS OF KIDS ARE TAKEN FROM THEIR PARENTS, DOZENS OF OTHERS ABDUCTED FROM ORPHANAGES. IT’S FRIGHTENING AND DISTURBING AT THE SAME TIME. I ALWAYS HEARD THE STORIES ABOUT ONI’S SHADOW OPS, BUT NEVER REALLY BELIEVED THEM. EVERYTHING AFTER THIS WILL BE SEEN IN A DIFFERENT LIGHT FOR ME.

I ALSO MET THE CANDIDATE’S PRIMARY INSTRUCTOR, A MAN BY THE NAME OF LASZLO. ITS OBVIOUS TO ME THAT HE’S A SIERRA---OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS CONSISTENTLY REFER TO HIM AS LIMA-108, AND HE‘S GOT AN AURA OF DEADLINESS ABOUT HIM---BUT I’M STILL AT A LOSS FOR WHERE HE CAME FROM. HE SEEMS TOO OLD TO BE A THREE OR A CHARLIE TWO, BUT I’VE STUDIED THE RANKS OF THE CHARLIE ONES AND HAVEN’T FOUND A TRACE OF HIM. I’M STILL LEARNING TO USE MY NEW CLEARANCES, SO MAYBE I’LL MAKE PROGRESS YET. AT ANY RATE, HE SEEMS KNOWLEDGEABLE AND I BELIEVE HE’LL BE AN EXCELLENT TEACHER. FROM OUR BRIEF CONVERSATION, HE SEEMS LIKE A GOOD SOLDIER. MAYBE I’VE FINALLY GOT AN ALLY TO RELY ON.

ONI HAS REBUFFED MY QUERY, SO IT LOOKS LIKE I’M GOING HAVE TO DO THE RESEARCH MYSELF. I’VE GOT PLENTY OF DOWN TIME TO ANALYZE THE CANDIDATES GENETIC PRINTS, BUT I’M NOT EVEN SURE WHAT I’M LOOKING FOR. HOPEFULLY INSPIRATION WILL STRIKE. IF NOT, PERHAPS THIS LASZLO FELLOW WILL BE ABLE TO HELP ME. IF HE’S CLOAKED IN SECRECY ENOUGH THAT I’M HAVING TROUBLE FINDING OUT HIS ORIGINS, HE SHOULD BE AT LEAST PASSINGLY FAMILIAR WITH THESE KINDS OF PROBLEMS. HE MAY HAVE SOME CONTACTS I CAN BORROW. I HAVE A FEELING THIS JOB WON’T BE PLEASANT IN THE SLIGHTEST.

JULY 22ND, 2540

THE CANDIDATES ARE DUE IN IN A FEW DAYS, AND THE WHOLE COMPLEX IS IN A FERMENT. I DIDN’T REALIZE WE HAD SO MANY PERSONNEL. IT FEELS LIKE EVERYONE'S IN A RUSH TO GET THINGS READY; SO MUCH FOR PLANNING AHEAD. THE GUILT FROM THE ABDUCTION IS STILL SINKING IN, AND I’M HAVING A HARD TIME SLEEPING. THERE’S NOTHING TO DISTRACT ME, AND EVERY PREPARATION WE MAKE IS AN UNWELCOME REMINDER OF THE ABDUCTION AND FLASH CLONES. HOPEFULLY THE ARRIVAL OF THE TRAINEES WILL GIVE ME SOMETHING ELSE TO FOCUS ON.

I’VE BEEN TRYING TO THINK UP A WAY TO APPROACH LASZLO AND ASK ABOUT HIS ORIGINS, BUT I’M STILL WONDERING WHICH THINGS ARE TABOO AND WHICH AREN’T. I DON’T THINK I’M USUALLY THE ONE TO WORRY ABOUT OFFENDING PEOPLE, BUT HE SEEMS LIKE A GOOD SOLDIER AND, QUITE FRANKLY, I DON’T THINK PISSING HIM OFF WILL HELP ME MUCH. I’VE ALREADY GOT ONI STONEWALLING ME, AND ALIENATING HIM SOUNDS LIKE A BAD IDEA.

SPEAKING OF BEING STONEWALLED, ONI HAS FOLLOWED UP ON THEIR REBUFF. APPARENTLY ONE OF THEIR WATCHDOG PROGRAMS CAUGHT ME SNOOPING AROUND THE GENETIC PROFILES OF OUR CANDIDATES, AND SOME SPOOK CONNECTED THE DOTS. THEY SENT A CEASE AND DESIST MESSAGE EXPLICITLY ORDERING ME TO DISCONTINUE MY LITTLE INVESTIGATION. NOT THAT I INTEND TO OBEY IT (WHAT ARE THEY GOING TO DO, SEND ME TO THE FRONT?), BUT I FOUND IT INSIGHTFUL. THEY DIDN’T SEEM TO CARE WHEN I WAS POKING AROUND THEIR PREDISPOSED GENETIC TRAITS OR WHEN I WAS CHECKING TO SEE WHICH DISEASES THEY‘RE MOST LIKELY TO ACQUIRE, BUT I IMMEDIATELY GOT THEIR ATTENTION WHEN I OPENED THE LOG OF THEIR GENETIC MATCH TO THE ORIGINAL CLASS. THAT’S TO MUCH OF A COINCIDENCE. AND THAT’S INFORMATION RIGHT THERE.

JULY 29TH, 2540

SUCCESS…IF YOU CAN CALL IT THAT. I FINALLY KNOW WHAT ONI WAS HIDING, AND IT’S ILLUMINATING. THE KEY TO THE DIFFERENCE IN [S-343] AND [S-338] IS IN THEIR MATCH TO THE ORIGINAL CHARLIE ONES---AND THE LACK OF A MATCH IN THE OTHERS. IT SEEMS OBVIOUS, IN RETROSPECT, AND I CAN’T BELIEVE I DIDN’T CATCH IT UNTIL NOW. IT’S NOT THAT THE TWO OF THEM DON’T MATCH---IT’S THAT THEY’RE THE ONLY ONES THAT DO. THE GENETIC MATCHES---THE PERCENT OF GENES THAT MATCH THE ORIGINAL GENETIC GUIDELINES SET BY HALSEY---ARE DRASTICALLY OUT OF SYNC. ONLY 10% ARE CLOSE TO THE ORIGINAL GENETIC STOCK, AND ONLY [S-338] AND [S-343] ARE REALLY EQUAL. 42% POSSESS 75% OR LOWER OF THE NEEDED GENE SEQUENCES. AND THE REMAINING 48% ARE JUST RANDOM KIDS THROWN IN BY SECTION III!

I’M STILL LEARNING ABOUT THE AUGMENTATION PROCEDURES, WHICH WILL LIKELY BE FROM THE OLDER SET BECAUSE OF FUNDING (OR LACK THEROF), BUT I KNOW ENOUGH. ONI ISN’T JUST SKIMPING ON SOME LITTLE DETAIL; THIS IS BIG. WITH THOSE KINDS OF SCORES, WE’RE GOING TO END UP LOSING SCORES OF TRAINEES IN AUGMENTATION, AND FIELD SUB-PAR SPARTANS AMONG THOSE WHO SURVIVE. THE ORIGINAL CHARLIE ONES SUSTAINED 56% LOSSES, WITH THE CORRECT GENETIC CODE. I THOUGHT I KNEW ALL THE TERRIBLE THINGS THERE WERE TO KNOW ABOUT THIS PROGRAM. I GUESS I WAS WRONG.

THIS IS TOO MUCH TO KEEP TO MYSELF, BUT I DON’T KNOW WHERE TO TURN. THE DI HERE, DEAN JACKSON, IS A GOOD MARINE BUT DOESN’T HAVE ANY SORT OF CLOUT AT ALL. NOVEMBER ROMEO---WHO I NOW STRONGLY SUSPECT TO BE REAR ADMIRAL NED RICH, COMMANDER OF THE COVERT OPERATIONS GROUP, WHICH IS CONTROLLING THIS PROJECT---IS IN ALL LIKELIHOOD FULLY AWARE OF THE RISKS. HE MIGHT HAVE EVEN GREEN LIT THE PROGRAM. THERE'S ONLY ONE OPTION LEFT I CAN THINK OF. I’VE SENT AN ANONYMOUS MESSAGE TO LASZLO, INDICATING THAT HE SHOULD CHECK INTO THE GENETIC MATCHES A LITTLE MORE THOROUGHLY.

IF I CAN’T FIND AN ALLY IN HIM, THEN I DON’T KNOW WHERE I’M GOING TO TURN TO NEXT.

AUGUST 2ND, 2540

LASZLO RESPONDED TO MY MESSAGE TODAY. HE DIDN’T INDICATE HOW HE TRACED THE MESSAGE, BUT HE DEFINITELY HAD INTERESTING THINGS TO SAY. A LOT OF IT I SUSPECTED, BUT SOME OF THEM ARE NEW. ABOVE ALL, HE STRESSED THAT, DESPITE WHATEVER REASON THEY CHOSE ME FOR, ONI STILL DON’T TRUST ME. THAT WASN’T A SURPRISE, BUT IT WAS A SURPRISE TO FIND OUT NOVEMBER ROMEO---DEFINITELY RICH, ACCORDING TO LASZLO---IS BEHIND MOST OF THIS PROJECT. DETAILS BEYOND THAT WERE NOT DISCLOSED. HE ALSO MENTIONED THAT I MIGHT WANT TO SECURE MY DATA ENTRIES; APPARENTLY, ONI’S SPY PROGRAMS ARE OPERATING WITHIN THE PROJECT’S INFRASTRUCTURE ALREADY. I’M NOT MUCH OF A TECHY AND NOT REALLY ONE FOR THIS SUBTERFUGE STUFF, BUT I’LL SEE WHAT I CAN DO.

TRAINING STARTED IN EARNEST YESTERDAY, AFTER LASZLO MET WITH THE CANDIDATES THE DAY BEFORE. I CONTEMPLATED PLAYING THE ROLE OF HALSEY AND SHOWING UP TO HELP WITH THE INTRODUCTION, BUT I DECIDED LASZLO COULD HANDLE IT. ONI CURRENTLY HAS ME DOING LOGISTICAL WORK, ORGANIZING THE PROJECT, AND I CERTAINLY HOPE IT’S JUST PLACEHOLDER WORK TO GIVE ME SOMETHING TO DO. IF I END UP WORKING AS SOME SORT OF TASKMASTER, I’LL NEVER BE ABLE TO FORGIVE MYSELF FOR LEAVING THE FRONT LINES.

IT SEEMS ODD THAT IT’S SETTING IN SO LATE, BUT I’M STARTING TO MISS MY TROOPS. MY DETACHMENT HERE IS COMPLETE; I KNOW NO ONE, AND MY ONLY CONNECTION WITH ANOTHER PERSON IS TO SOME SHADOWY SIERRA THAT I CAN’T TRACE. I FEEL WRONG COMPLAINING, BECAUSE IT’S A JUST PENANCE FOR ALL THAT I’VE DONE---YET I CAN’T HELP IT. THE WORLD SEEMS TO HAVE DISTORTED COMPLETELY OUT OF RECOGNITION OVER THE PAST FEW MONTHS. I DON’T KNOW WHAT I DID TO GET THIS POSTING, BUT I SINCERELY, SINCERELY WISH I HADN’T DONE IT.

AUGUST 7TH, 2540

TRAINING IS GOING WELL, AND OVER THE PAST FEW DAYS, MY ANXIETY HAS STARTED TO WANE. I LET IT, BECAUSE I STILL HAVE A JOB TO DO, HOWEVER MUCH I DESPISE IT, AND MOPING AROUND WON’T HELP IT. TODAY A REPORT CAME IN, HOWEVER, THAT SENT ME STRAIGHT BACK. RICH’S FIELD TEAMS HAVE MADE A POINT TO OBSERVE THE CANDIDATES’ REPLACEMENTS (THE FLASH CLONES ONI EMPLOYED), AND THEY SENT IN THEIR FIRST OBSERVATIONS TODAY. I’VE READ PLENTY ABOUT METABOLIC DECAY, AND I STILL REMEMBER DOING TEST LABS ON RATS AT UNIVERSITY. I THOUGHT I WAS READY, EVEN KNOWING HOW BAD IT WAS. BUT THE FLASH CLONE DECAY REALLY IS TERRIBLE. SIX REPLACEMENTS HAVE ALREADY SUCCUMBED; FIVE FROM SIMPLE DECAY, AND ANOTHER FROM AN INFECTION AGGRAVATED BY THE DRASTICALLY LOWER IMMUNE SYSTEM.

THE THING THAT DID ME IN WAS THE PICTURES. THE FIELD TEAMS TOOK GREAT CARE TO…DOCUMENT THE SCENE, AND I DIDN’T REALIZE HOW TERRIBLE THINGS REALLY WERE UNTIL I OPENED THE FIRST ONE. AFTER THAT, I COULDN’T STOP MYSELF. EACH ONE WAS WORST THAN THE NEXT---BUT I HAD TO LOOK. I WAS RESPONSIBLE. I FEEL CONSUMED WITH GUILT. IT’S ONE THING TO SHOOT AN INSURRECTIONIST WITH A GUN TO YOU, BUT KILLING CHILDREN---AND THAT’S WITHOUT A DOUBT WHAT I’VE HELPED DO, AS SURE AS IF I SHOT THEM DEAD---IS ANOTHER MATTER ENTIRELY. MY THOUGHTS FEEL LIKE THEY’RE UNRAVELING. I HAVE TO MAKE A CHANGE BEFORE I DRIVE MYSELF MAD.

THE WORST PART ABOUT IT ALL IS THAT THE CANDIDATES ARE REALLY STARTING TO EXCEL. IT’S BEEN BARELY OVER A WEEK, SO IT’S DIFFICULT TO COMPARE THEIR PROGRESS TO THE ORIGINAL CLASS, BUT THEY’RE ALL SHOWING EXCEPTIONAL TEAMWORK AND STRENGTH OF WILL. MOST ARE NO MORE THAN SIX OR SEVEN, BUT THEY’RE PUSHING ON WITH THE TRAINING AND WORKING EXCEPTIONALLY HARD. LASZLO IS QUITE DEFINITELY A GOOD TEACHER; HE KNOWS HOW TO MOTIVATE THESE CHILDREN BETTER THAN I COULD IN A MILLION YEARS. HE’S FOLLOWING HALSEY’S EXAMPLE FAIRLY CLOSELY, BUT HAS ALSO MADE A FEW CHANGES, WHICH SEEM TO BE WORKING OUT WELL. HE CHOSE TO SORT THE RECRUITS INTO TEAMS IMMEDIATELY, RATHER THAN TO WAIT, AND THEY HAVE ALREADY FORMED THEIR OWN FAMILIES WITHIN THEIR SQUADS. THEY STILL WORK WELL WITH THE OTHER RECRUITS, BUT IT SEEMS TO BE HELPING THEM COPE WITH ALL THE CHANGES---THEY’RE HOLDING EACH OTHER TOGETHER, WITHOUT A DOUBT.

AUGUST 17TH, 2540

WE HAD OUR FIRST ESCAPE ATTEMPT TODAY, AND DAMNED IF IT WASN’T CRAFTY. ONE OF THE MORE “INDEPENDENT” SQUADS, CRIMSON (THEY’VE ALL GOT LOUD MOUTHS AND A PENCHANT FOR DISOBEYING PRACTICALLY EVERYONE), MADE AN ATTEMPT TO SLIP AWAY FROM THE COMPLEX. I NEVER REALIZED SIX YEAR OLDS COULD BE SO INTUITIVE, BUT I’M LEARNING QUICKLY THAT THESE KIDS AREN’T YOUR AVERAGE KINDERGARTENERS. (EVEN IF THEY’RE NOT QUITE UP TO HALSEY’S STANDARDS). WHILE TWO OF THEM ([S-311] AND [S-341]) STAGED A DISTRACTION IN THE MESS HALL, [S-319] HACKED OUR BASE SYSTEMS AND KEYED A FIRE ALARM. IN THE SHEER PANDEMONIUM, THE OTHER TWO, [S-303] AND [S-327], INFILTRATED THE BASE SECURITY STATION, KILLED THE CAMERA SYSTEM, AND APPARENTLY PROCURED RADIO DEVICES. THE FIVE OF THEM ALL HEADED FOR THE SURFACE VIA SERVICE TUNNELS, AND IF IT WASN’T FOR SOME QUICK THINKING ON LASZLO’S PART (CALLING IN A PELICAN SEARCH IN THE EXACT RIGHT AREA---LIKE HE HAD EXPERIENCE SNEAKING OUT!) THEY PROBABLY WOULD’VE SLIPPED AWAY.

I GUESS I SHOULDN’T BE SURPRISED, GIVEN THE RECORD OF CLASS ONE GROUPS LIKE GRAY TEAM AND TEAM BLACK, BUT THE SHEER PLANNING OF IT ALL TOOK ME ABACK. NO ONE IN THE TEAM IS OLDER THAN SIX AND A HALF, YET THEY HAD THE WHOLE PLAN MEMORIZED, TIMED EXACTLY, AND WELL THOUGHT OUT BEFORE HAND. WHEN LASZLO CAUGHT THEM, HE CONFISCATED ALMOST A MONTHS WORTH OF DRY RATIONS, SURVIVAL GEAR, AND WEAPONS THAT THEY’D SMUGGLED OUT OF STORAGE OVER THE PAST MONTH---ALL THE WHILE MANIPULATING THE RECORD MANIFEST TO COVER THEIR TRACKS. NONE OF THEM HAVE STEPPED FORWARD AS THE LEADER, AND I HEARD SOME OF THE DI’S STARTED A (DISCRETE) POOL TRYING TO GUESS WHO THE GURU WAS. JACKSON HAS HIS MONEY ON [S-319], WHILE MOST OF THE OTHERS ARE HIGHLIGHTING [S-311] DUE TO HER HIGH IQ SCORES. I’VE NOTICED WITH DISTINCT INTEREST THAT LASZLO DOESN’T HAVE A BET PLACED (PERSONALLY, I DON’T KNOW THEM WELL ENOUGH TO MAKE A WAGER---BUT WOULD PUT MONEY ON [S-341], JUST BECAUSE NO ONE ELSE SEEMS TO BE).

IF THERE'S ANY BRIGHT SIDE IN THIS---BESIDES GIVING OUR SECURITY TEAM A LIST OF A FEW DOZEN IMPROVEMENTS TO BE MADE---IT’S THAT IT’S HELPED DISTRACT ME SOMEWHAT. IT’S HARD TO BE CONSUMED WITH GUILT WHEN YOUR BUSY SWEARING AT A DI AND SEARCHING FOR MISSING RECRUITS. I THINK THAT’S THE CLOSEST THING I’LL FIND TO A SOLUTION: THROW MYSELF INTO THE PROGRAM AND DO MY ABSOLUTE BEST TO HELP TRAIN THESE KIDS. IT’S TOO LATE TO SAVE THE CLONES, OR TO UNDUE THE DAMAGE I’VE DONE TO THEIR LIVES…BUT I CAN TRY AND MINIMIZE IT, AND HELP THEM TO SAVE THE LIVES OF OTHER PEOPLE AS WELL. THAT’S THE HOPE, ANYWAY.

NOVEMBER 9TH, 2540

TRAINING IS ON SCHEDULE, AND FOR THE MOST PART, THERE AREN’T MANY SURPRISES. LASZLO IS HOLDING FAIRLY TRUE TO HALSEY’S MODEL, AND IS REPLICATING HER WORK WELL (PERHAPS BETTER, GIVEN THE QUALITY OF THE CANDIDATE’S HE'S WORKING WITH). I’VE BEEN DOING MY BEST TO HELP WITH THE TRAINING, AND WHILE THE DI’S ARE ALL MUCH BETTER QUALIFIED TO TEACH, I DO WHATEVER I CAN TO HELP PLAN THE TRAINING AND ORGANIZE THINGS. IT’S A CHALLENGE SOMETIMES JUST TO FIND WORK, AND THAT FEELS DOWNRIGHT WRONG. THE LIST OF PLANET’S LOST TO THE COVENANT IS GROWING EVERY MONTH, AND SITTING IN A CHAIR, DOING NOTHING DEFINITELY DOES NOT SIT WELL WITH ME.

NOT ALL DOOM AND GLOOM, THOUGH. THE FIRST WAVE OF CANDIDATE PROGRESS REPORTS ARE IN, AND THEY’RE WELL AHEAD OF THE PROJECTED EXPECTATIONS---EVEN THE RANDOM ONES WE PICKED UP OFF THE STREET. ONI ANALYSTS (AND MY OWN INDEPENDENT PROJECTIONS) PREDICTED WE’D BE SEEING APPROXIMATELY 90% OF THE ORIGINAL CHARLIE ONE PERFORMANCE BY NOW, BUT THE CANDIDATES ARE STILL MATCHING THEM FAIRLY CLOSE. A FEW ARE AS LOW AS 95%, BUT THEY’RE BEING BUOYED BY A LARGE CROP OF RECRUITS THAT ARE MATCHING THEM EXACTLY---[S-338], [S-343], AND [S-341] IN PARTICULAR. THE FORMER ARE EVEN SURPASSING SOME OF THE LESS PROFICIENT CHARLIE ONE CANDIDATES.

I HAD A MINOR ALTERCATION WITH AN ONI AGENT EARLIER THIS WEEK WHEN HE TRIED TO TAKE SOME OF THE CANDIDATES FOR “TESTING” WITHOUT ASKING ME OR LASZLO, AND IT TOOK SOME SERIOUS SMOOTH TALK BY RICH TO CALM THINGS DOWN. I’M STARTING TO GET THE FEELING AGAIN THAT I’M NOT WELCOME HERE, AND I’M WATCHING MY BACK. I’VE ACTUALLY STARTED GETTING COMFORTABLE HERE (THESE RECRUITS ARE REMARKABLY INNOCENT FOR ALL THEY’VE BEEN THROUGH, AND BEING AROUND THEM TENDS TO PUT ME A LITTLE TOO MUCH AT EASE), AND IT’S HARDER AND HARDER TO STAY VIGILANT. I KNOW I HAVE TO, BECAUSE EVEN IF THEY’RE ON MY SIDE, I KNOW ONI IS DEFINITELY NOT LOOKING OUT FOR THE BEST INTERESTS OF THESE KIDS. AND IF THEY’RE NOT, THAT MEANS I HAVE TOO.

DECEMBER 22ND, 2540

2541
WE WANTED TO HAVE OUR TEAM LEADER ROSTER UP A MINIMUM OF SIX MONTHS INTO TRAINING, AND WE WERE VERY CLOSE TO THAT DEADLINE. THE CHARLIE ONES DIDN’T REALLY TAKE ON A DEFINITIVE COMMAND STRUCTURE UNTIL BASICALLY 2 YEARS INTO THEIR TRAINING, BUT LASZLO’S MORE FOCUSED TEAM BUILDING HAS HEIGHTENED THE NEED FOR ORGANIZED LEADERSHIP. PICKING LEADERS IS HARD, BECAUSE IT’S STILL EARLY, AND SOME OF OUR BEST CANDIDATES COULD BE LATE BLOOMERS, BUT I FEEL FAIRLY CONFIDENT IN OUR CHOICES (THEY CAN ALL BE MODIFIED, IF NEED BE, AS WELL).

AS IT STANDS, WE’VE GOT DEFINITE LEADERS FOR SEVEN TEAMS, WITH LIKELY CANDIDATES FOR THE OTHER THREE. OUR CRITERIA WAS BASED ON A NUMBER OF FACTORS, BUT NAMELY ON THE CANDIDATE’S COMBAT ABILITIES AND LEADERSHIP TALENT. A FEW WERE OBVIOUS---LIKE [S-338] FOR TAN, [S-341] FOR CRIMSON (WHO I‘M NOW CONVINCED, BY THE WAY, MASTERMINDED THEIR FAILED ESCAPE ATTEMPT 5 MONTHS AGO), [S-312] FOR SILVER, AND [S-309] FOR TURQUOISE---BUT THERE WERE PLENTY OF DIFFICULT ONES TOO. SCARLET, OLIVE, AND CYAN WERE ALL NAIL BITERS (WE ENDED UP CHOOSING [S-356] FOR SCARLET, [S-316] FOR OLIVE, AND [S-314] FOR CYAN---[S-343] WAS CONSIDERED, BECAUSE SHE’S THE MOST CAPABLE MEMBER IN THE WHOLE TEAM, BUT [S-314] IS THE ONLY ONE WHO CAN KEEP THEM IN LINE.)

AS FOR THE THREE SQUADS LEFT LEADERLESS (ORANGE, GOLD, AND VIOLET), WE’RE STILL DELIBERATING. LASZLO MOSTLY HAS YET TO IDENTIFY A REALLY SOLID, STAND OUT LEADER IN VIOLET AND ORANGE, AND IS WAITING TO SEE IF ANYTHING DEVELOPS. GOLD ON THE OTHER HAND, IS TRICKY. NEITHER ME NOR LASZLO CAN REALLY DECIDE; WE’VE GOT TWO CANDIDATES PRIME FOR A LEADERSHIP ROLE ([S-363] AND [S-347]), BUT THEY BOTH HAVE DISTINCT TALENTS AND WEAKNESSES; [S-363] ISN’T NEARLY AS TACTICALLY ADEPT AS [S-347], BUT HE’S MODEST, CAUTIONARY, AND HAS A TALENT FOR MAKING HIS TEAM WORK SEAMLESSLY WELL TOGETHER. [S-347], BY CONTRAST, HAS ALL THE NECESSARY TACTICAL ABILITIES (AND THEN SOME) BUT LACKS A MORE PERSONAL TOUCH---LIKE I NOTED WHEN WE PICKED HER UP, SHE’S GOT A BIG HEAD AND IS A BIT OF A HELLCAT; THE SQUAD FINDS HER ABRADING AT TIMES. WE’RE TRYING HARD TO FIGURE OUT WHICH WE’LL PUT IN COMMAND, BUT IT’S DEFINITELY A PROCESS.

MARCH 25TH, 2541

FINALLY GOT TEAM LEADERS SORTED OUT FOR THE REST OF THE SQUADS; WE GOT ORANGE AND VIOLET SET BY EARLY APRIL, BUT THE ROSTER FOR GOLD ELUDED US UNTIL TODAY. FINALLY, AFTER A FEW HEART-TO-HEART CHATS, I DECIDED TO GO FOR [S-363] OVER [S-347]. AT LASZLO’S SUGGESTION, WE PUT [S-347] IN AS THE SECOND IN COMMAND OF GOLD, TO HELP LESSEN THE TENSION OF THE DECISION; HOPEFULLY THE POSITION WILL BE ENOUGH FOR HER; IF NOT…WELL, WE’LL CROSS THAT BRIDGE WHEN WE GET TO IT. NOT MUCH WE CAN DO ABOUT IT RIGHT NOW, SHORT OF TRANSFERRING HER OUT (AND THAT’S THE ABSOLUTE LAST THING I WANT TO DO---I DON’T IMAGINE A TRANSFER WOULD BE PRETTY FOR ANYONE INVOLVED).

WITH THE SQUAD LEADER ROSTER WORKED OUT THOUGH, THINGS HAVE PRETTY MUCH SETTLED DOWN. TRAINING IS GOING WELL, AND ALTHOUGH WE’RE STILL IN THE BEGINNING STAGES, THE FUTURE (FOR THE PROGRAM AT LEAST) LOOKS BRIGHT; THE RECRUITS HAVE ALL ADJUSTED WELL TO THE NEW ENVIRONMENT, ARE HONING THEIR BASIC COMBAT SKILLS, AND IN SOME CASES, ARE EVEN EXCELLING. A FEW TEAMS IN PARTICULAR ARE OF NOTE; CRIMSON TEAM (WHO, DESPITE THEIR ROGUE-ISH BEHAVIOR, ARE ALL PROVING EXTREMELY CAPABLE) ARE SCORING HIGHER ON ACADEMIC TESTING THAN MANY OF THE CLASS II’S DID, CYAN TEAM RECENTLY EARNED THE HONOR OF BEING THE FIRST TO QUALIFY WITH MARKSMAN LEVEL SCORES ON THEIR RIFLE TESTS, AND TAN TEAM IS LEADING THE WAY IN TACTICS TRAINING, WITH HIGH SCORES ALL AROUND. MEANWHILE, WE’VE GOT ANOTHER SURPRISE IN SCARLET TEAM; THEY’RE NOT ONE OF OUR BEST SQUADS, BUT THEY’RE ALL VERY SPECIALIZED, MAKING A STRONGER UNIT OVERALL.

IN FACT, THE TEAM’S PERFORMANCE IS HOLDING TRUE TO THEIR EARLIER EXAMPLE A FEW MONTHS AGO; THEY ARE ACTUALLY PERFORMING BETTER THAN ANTICIPATED. WHETHER IT’S FROM LASZLO’S TUTELAGE OR FROM SHEER TENACITY, OUR KIDS ARE PULLING OFF 95% RATIOS, SAME AS BEFORE. I’M HONESTLY TEMPTED TO SAY IT’S FROM THEIR OWN WILL; THEY ARE ALL ROUGHLY EQUAL IN MOST FIELDS, EVEN WHERE NATURAL APTITUDES DICTATE CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS SHOULD BE STRONGER---LEADING ME TO BELIEVE THEY’RE PUSHING EACH OTHER TO DO BETTER. IT’S FUNNY THAT THEY’RE BREAKING SO HEAVILY FROM ONI’S EXPECTATIONS, BECAUSE THEY’RE ACTUALLY FAIRLY PREDICTABLE; OTHER THAN A FEW MINUTE DIFFERENCES, THEY ALL HAVE ROUGHLY SIMILAR SKILL SETS. A FEW TEAMS (LIKE THE ONES I NOTED ABOVE) ARE DIFFERENT IN THAT THEY’RE A LITTLE BIT BETTER, BUT THAT’S ABOUT IT.

SEEMS I’M RAMBLING NOW, SO I THINK I MAY CUT THIS ENTRY OFF HERE. HAD A MINOR LEG OPERATION DONE A FEW DAYS AGO ON A RECENT TRAINING INJURY, AND THE PAINKILLERS ARE PLAYING HELL WITH MY HEAD.

JUNE 18TH, 2541

2542
TODAY IS THE ANNIVERSARY. TWO YEARS; 730 DAYS OF TRAINING, STRUGGLES, MISHAPS, AND SUCCESSES. 104 WEEKS OF GUILT AND ANXIETY. IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE SO MUCH TIME HAS PASSED. FEEL’S LIKE YESTERDAY THAT I WAS INTERVIEWING THE KIDS FOR POTENTIAL (NOT THAT THOSE INTERVIEWS DID ANYTHING MORE THAN WASTE TIME IN THE LONG RUN). IT’S FUNNY; SOME THINGS STICK WITH YOU NO MATTER WHAT. WHEN I WAKE UP ON MY BIRTHDAY, IT TAKES AN AUTO-REMINDER TO MAKE ME REALIZE, AND I’D HAVE TO LOOK IN MY JOURNAL TO FIND THE ANNIVERSARY OF MY FIRST DAY OF COMPANY TRAINING. YET THE MOMENT I WOKE UP THIS MORNING, I KNEW EXACTLY WHAT THE DATE MEANT. FUNNY, REALLY.

FOR A WHILE, I THOUGHT I WAS THE ONLY ONE WHO REMEMBERED, BUT APPARENTLY THE SIGNIFICANCE WAS NOT LOST ON LASZLO EITHER. HE TOOK THE RECRUITS OUT TODAY FOR A RECREATION OF A FIELD TEST HIS GROUP WENT THROUGH WHEN THEY WERE CANDIDATES---THE INFAMOUS “LOST IN THE WOODS” DEBACLE THAT ENDED IN [S-117] BEING MADE THEIR LEADER. WE DON’T REALLY HAVE LEADERS LIKE THAT IN THE PROJECT BECAUSE OF THE MORE TIGHT-KNIT TEAM GROUPS, SO THEIR PERFORMANCE WILL CERTAINLY BE INTERESTING---BUT SOMEHOW I FIND IT EQUALLY FASCINATING THAT LASZLO THOUGHT ABOUT THE ANNIVERSARY ENOUGH TO PLAN THIS TRAINING OP SPECIFICALLY FOR IT.

HE LEFT WITH THE CANDIDATES ABOUT AN HOUR AGO, AND THE FACILITY IS UNUSUALLY QUIET. I HAVE MORE TIME TO SIT AND THINK THEN I’VE HAD IN MONTHS. SO MANY THINGS HAVE HAPPENED IN THE PAST FEW YEARS, AND NONE OF IT MAKES SENSE, EVEN NOW. I REALLY WONDER IF I’LL EVER GET OVER MY ROLE IN THIS; IN SOME WAYS, I REALLY DON’T WANT TOO. LASZLO WILL BE BACK IN A FEW HOURS, AND WE’LL HAVE A FEW MORE AFTER THAT BEFORE THE CANDIDATES FIND THEIR WAY BACK (IF PRIOR EXAMPLES HOLD TRUE). MAYBE I’LL FINALLY GET A CHANCE TO TALK TO HIM ABOUT SOMETHING OTHER THAN TRAINING. IT’S BEEN TWO YEARS, AND I STILL HARDLY KNOW THE MAN. MAYBE IT’S TIME THAT CHANGED.

AUGUST 6TH, 2542

2543
WHILE LASZLO HAS INTRODUCED SOME MINOR VARIATIONS AND CHANGES INTO THE TRAINING REGIMEN (SOME OF WHICH HAVE HAD MORE PROFOUND EFFECTS THAN EXPECTED---THE EARLY TEAM FORMATION IN PARTICULAR), WE ARE, IN GENERAL, TRYING TO STAY TRUE TO THE ORIGINAL METHODS USED BY HALSEY AND MENDEZ. YET SOMETIMES, WE PRODUCE VASTLY DIFFERENT RESULTS---EVEN USING THE SAME METHODOLOGIES AND PROCEDURES. CASE IN POINT IS THE SPECIALIZATION WE’RE SEEING IN THE CANDIDATES---OR LACK OF IT, AS THE CASE MAY BE, IN OTHERS---AND WHETHER OR NOT WE SHOULD PROMOTE IT.

HALSEY, TO BE CLEAR, DID NOT PROMOTE SPECIALIZATION. FOR SUCH A BRILLIANT WOMAN (BRILLIANT IN MIND, OBVIOUSLY, NOT IN SOUL) SHE HAD A STRANGE AVOIDANCE OF WHAT CONVENTIONAL MILITARY LOGIC DICTATES TO BE GOOD IDEAS. CANDIDATE SPECIALIZATION IS ONE OF THOSE AREAS. HALSEY SEEMED TO WANT THE CANDIDATES TO ALL BE CARBON COPIES, EQUALLY CAPABLE IN ALL AREAS---WITHOUT DISTINCT SKILL SETS. OBVIOUSLY, THIS DIDN’T END UP BEING THE CASE; [S-058] MORPHED INTO THE GROUP’S FOREMOST SHARPSHOOTER, [S-104] THEIR CQB EXPERT, [S-008] THEIR EVA SPECIALIST, [S-044] THEIR SCOUT, [S-052] THEIR SUPPORT SPECIALIST, [S-042] THEIR EXPLOSIVE EXPERT---BUT IT CERTAINLY WAS NEVER HER INTENTION.

OUR ATTITUDE TOWARDS THIS KIND OF SPECIALIZATION HAS BEEN NON-COMMITTAL, UP TO THIS POINT. LASZLO HIMSELF HAS DISTINCT SPECIALTIES, (MOST NOTABLY IN THE AREA OF ENGINEERING, SHARPSHOOTING, PILOTING, AND MEDICINE---OR SO HIS CSV SAYS) YET SEEMS HESITANT TO STRAY TO FAR FROM HALSEY'S MODEL (HE DOESN’T SEEM TO REALIZE THAT HIS IDEAS ARE JUST AS GOOD, IF NOT BETTER, THAN HERS) AND HAS THUS REMAINED AMBIGUOUS. THIS HAS WORKED WELL ENOUGH SO FAR, BUT UNFORTUNATELY, FATE SEEMS LIKE IT’S ABOUT TO FORCE OUR HAND. THE CANDIDATES ARE ALREADY BRANCHING OUT AND TAKING INTEREST IN SPECIFIC FIELDS, AND HAVE THEMSELVES INQUIRED ABOUT THE POSSIBILITY OF SPECIALIST TRAINING. [S-338], [S-317], AND [S-343] IN PARTICULAR ARE VOCAL SUPPORTERS OF ADDITIONAL OPTIONS (THOUGH 343 ASKED FOR TRAINING WITH THE FLAMETHROWER, SO I DON’T KNOW IF HUMORING HER IS WISE).

AT ANY RATE, IT’S TIME TO MAKE A DECISION.

MAY 23RD, 2543

THE WORLD RARELY COOPERATES TOTALLY WITH OUR PLANS, BUT IT STILL SEEMS LIKE WE DO OCCASIONALLY GET THOSE DAYS WHEN THINGS JUST GO TO TOTAL RAT SHIT AND EVERYTHING STARTS FALLING APART. FOR ME, THOSE DAYS USED TO BE STRAIGHT FORWARD AND COUNTER ABLE; BATTLES THAT GOT MESSY (WHERE OUR OPTIONS WERE ALL STRAIGHTFORWARD AND SIMPLE) OR, IF I WAS REALLY UNLUCKY, AN ARGUMENT WITH WOMAN (WHERE MY SOLUTION WAS MORE OFTEN THAN NOT SOME HEAVY DRINKING). NOWADAYS, NONE OF MY CRISES ARE EVER SO OBVIOUS---OR SO EASILY FIXED.

MY CURRENT ONES ARE SUBTLE AND DEVIOUS; THEY SNEAK UP ON ME AND ENTHRALL ME IN ALL KINDS OF TORMENTS. I HAVE A HARD TIME TAKING A LOT OF THEM SERIOUSLY SOMETIMES, BECAUSE MILITARY POLITICS JUST DOESN’T HAVE THE SAME SENSE OF DANGER AS A WAR ZONE---BUT THEY’RE JUST AS DEADLY IN THEIR OWN WAY. AND THE WORST PART IS THAT WHILE MY OLD CONFLICTS USED TO JUST INVOLVE ME, THESE NEW ONE’S ARE ALMOST NEVER ABOUT ME---AND IT MAKES THE SITUATION A HUNDRED TIMES MORE COMPLICATED, AT LEAST IN MY MIND.

THE ONE CURRENTLY CONFOUNDING ME IS FUNDING. RICH WENT TO A LOT OF WORK IN THE BEGINNING TO GATHER THE NECESSARY FUNDS FOR THE PROGRAM, AND THERE WAS SUPPOSED TO BE ENOUGH STORED UP IN THE COFFERS TO LAST US THROUGH TRAINING, AUGMENTATION, AND DEPLOYMENT. JUST BARELY ENOUGH, BUT ENOUGH NONETHELESS. PROBLEM IS, ONI’S PRESSED FOR CASH, AND RICH HAS KEPT THE PROJECT SEALED SO TIGHT THAT MOST OF THE AGENCY DOESN’T KNOW WHAT WE’RE DOING. COMPARTMENTALIZATION AND ALL THAT CRAP. APPARENTLY, THE ELEMENTS OF ONI THAT ARE BACKING HIM ARE DOING SO WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF ONI'S COMMAND---WHO WOULD HAVE GUESSED THERE'S CORRUPTION IN ONI? NOW THE LESS DIRTY PARTS OF THE AGENCY ARE DRAWING FUNDS FROM ANOTHER APPARENT “BLACK HOLE” PROJECT---US. THEY DON’T KNOW WHY WE NEED THE MONEY, AND WE SURE AS HELL CAN’T TELL THEM. RICH IS MOVING FAST TO REALLOCATE OUR REMAINING STOCKPILES, BUT WE’RE STILL GOING TO TURN UP SHORT, AND THAT MEANS ELEMENTS OF THE PROJECT ARE GOING TO HAVE TO BE CUT. WITH THE ALREADY LOW SURVIVAL RATES, THAT’S UNACCEPTABLE.

I THINK IT’S HIGH TIME I DID SOME REAL WORK AROUND HERE. THIS IS AS GOOD A PLACE TO START AS ANY.

JUNE 9TH, 2543

2544
TRAINING IS GETTING MORE AND MORE INTENSE EACH MONTH, AND THE STRESS IS STARTING TO SHOW. I HAVE TO TRUST LASZLO KNOWS WHAT HE’S DOING, BUT IT’S WORRYING NONETHELESS. IN THE PAST THREE MONTHS, WE’VE HAD A HALF DOZEN BROKEN BONES, CONCUSSIONS, AND CLOSE CALLS WITH WEAPONS; SMALLER INJURIES HAPPEN ALMOST DAILY. LASZLO SAYS THEY’LL BE ABLE TO COPE, SO I’LL GIVE HIM THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT (HE WENT THROUGH IT ALL, AND KNOWS MORE ABOUT THEIR SITUATION THAN ME).

THE STRAIN IS ALREADY STARTING TO SHOW, HOWEVER. THE CANDIDATES WITH THE HIGHER GENETIC MATCHES ARE RACING AHEAD WITH EXEMPLARY SCORES, OUTPACING THEIR FELLOWS. THE WEAKER CANDIDATES ARE BEING SLOWLY LEFT BEHIND, AT LEAST PERFORMANCE WISE. THEIR TEAM DYNAMIC IS AS STRONG AS EVER, A FORCE UNTO ITSELF. THEY’RE CLOSER THAN FAMILY; A TIGHT KNIT GROUP THAT WATCHES EACH OTHERS BACK CONSTANTLY. JUST LOOKING AT THEM MAKES ME JEALOUS. THAT KIND OF ASSURANCE WOULD BE MORE HELPFUL THAN I CAN DESCRIBE.

THERE ARE A FEW NOTABLE EXCEPTIONS, OF COURSE, MOST PRESSINGLY BEING GOLD TEAM. [S-347] REALLY DOESN’T FIT IN WITH THEM, AND IT SHOWS. THEY SQUABBLE DAILY, SHE UNDERMINES [S-363]’S AUTHORITY, AND SPENDS MOST OF HER FREE TIME WITH SCARLET TEAM (THAT IN ITSELF SET’S OFF ALARM BELLS---THE BAD SIDE OF THE HEAVY EMPHASIS ON SQUAD DYNAMICS IS THAT IT’S MADE THEM A LOT LESS INCLUSIVE THAN THE CHARLIE ONES, SO INTER-SQUAD MINGLING IS A TOUCHY AFFAIR). IT WILL HOPEFULLY ALL SETTLE DOWN IN A FEW YEARS WHEN THEY GROW OUT OF IT, BUT UNTIL THEN, IT WILL MAKE FOR SOME TRYING TIMES.

JANUARY 12TH, 2544

WHEN I WOKE UP THIS MORNING, I DISCOVERED I HAD GOOD NEWS AND BAD NEWS WAITING FOR ME. THE GOOD NEWS: I STILL HAVE A JOB, NO ONE DIED (THAT I KNOW), AND I’M NOT BEING PULLED FROM THE PROJECT. ALSO, NOT BEING EXECUTED. ALWAYS A GOOD THING (AND I SAY THAT IN FULL SERIOUSNESS). BAD NEWS: RICH FOUND OUT ABOUT MY “FUNDRAISING SCHEMES”, AND IS NOTHAPPY. LET ME CLARIFY: HE’S NOT ANGRY THAT I STOLE MONEY FROM OTHER PROJECTS; HE’S ANGRY BECAUSE I ACCIDENTALLY STOLE SOME FROM HIS.

NAMES ARE UNIMPORTANT (AND LIKELY TO CAUSE MORE TROUBLE THAN THEIR WORTH), BUT SUFFICE TO SAY HE WAS LOOKING THROUGH HIS BUDGET ROSTER AND NOTICED A PRECIPITOUS DROP IN FUNDING FOR ONE OF HIS “TOP SECRET” WAR FIGHTING PROGRAMS. THAT, COUPLED, WITH MY RECENT REPORT ON “AN UNEXPECTED REVENUE AMENDMENT” SET OFF ALARM BELLS IN HIS HEAD, AND HE WAS QUICK TO MAKE THE CONNECTION. HIS MESSAGE WAS SHORT AND TO THE POINT: GET THE MONEY BACK, OR THE WHOLE PROGRAM IS BEING SMASHED AND YOUR GETTING DROPPED.

HE’S PROBABLY BLUFFING (WE’RE FOUR YEARS INTO TRAINING---HE’S NOT STUPID ENOUGH TO WASTE ALL THAT MONEY, ESPECIALLY CONSIDERING IT WAS HIS OWN DAMN IDEA) BUT I FOLLOWED THE ORDER ANYWAY. ALL FUNDS HAVE BEEN RETURNED TO HIM…OR AT LEAST, THE FUNDS THAT CAME FROM HIM. I NEVER THOUGHT I’D BE THE ONE TO STEAL MONEY FROM THE GOVERNMENT, BUT I GUESS DESPERATE TIMES CALL FOR DESPERATE MEASURES. I’M NOT SHORT SIDING OUR RECRUITS, NO MATTER WHAT. I’VE BEGUN COVERTLY DRAWING FUNDING FROM A DOZEN MORE CIVILIAN BRANCHES (IN SMALLER AMOUNTS THIS TIME---NO NEED TO REPEAT PAST MISTAKES), AND THE MONEY TO REPLACE OUR LOSSES IS ALREADY COMING IN. WE STILL WON’T HAVE ENOUGH FOR THE LATEST AUGMENTS OR---GOD FORBID---MJOLNIR; BUT IT’S BETTER THAN NOTHING.

DECEMBER 19TH, 2544

2545
WE’VE GOT A HALF DOZEN INTERNAL TRAINING OPERATIONS, PROJECTS, AND EVALUATIONS GOING, AND I FEEL LIKE MY HEAD’S ON A SWIVEL. FOR THE FIRST HALF OF THE DAY, I SPENT MY TIME CALCULATING AUGMENTATION SUCCESS/FAILURE RATES; AFTER THAT, I ASSISTED IN ONE OF THE MARKSMANSHIP LESSONS. WE’VE RARELY HAD SO MUCH GOING ON AT ONCE, AND I HAVE TO ADMIT, IT’S A LITTLE DISTRACTING. I CAN HARDLY BELIEVE I USED TO COPE WITH THE CHAOS OF OPEN BATTLEFIELDS WITHOUT SO MUCH AS A HEADACHE, BUT NOW I CAN’T EVEN KEEP TRACK OF A FEW RANDOM PROGRAMS. MAYBE I’M GETTING OLD.

IT DOESN’T HELP THAT THINGS HAVE BEEN CRASHING IN ON THEMSELVES LATELY. RICH HAS BEEN GETTING ALL OVER ME ABOUT SOME OF MY “LESS THAN LEGAL” EXTRA FUNDRAISING SCHEMES. LASZLO’S CRYPTIC COMMENTS ABOUT HIS PAST ARE CONFUSING AND WORRYING. LYLA’S BIRTHDAY WAS YESTERDAY, A NONE TO WELCOME REMINDER OF EVERYTHING I LEFT BEHIND. AND SOME BASTARD ONI AGENT HAS BEEN “ASSESSING THE CONDITION” OF THE CANDIDATES; SNOOPING AROUND THE FACILITY, LOOKING FOR DIRT ON THE PROJECT (OR ME, OR LAZ, OR DEAN…)

NOT TO MENTION THE FACT THAT THE CANDIDATES ARE STARTING TO ACT OUT (OR, ACT OUT AS MUCH AS A BUNCH OF HIGHLY REGIMENTED SOLDIERS IN TRAINING DO). PEOPLE TALK ABOUT HOW DESTRUCTIVE TEENAGERS CAN BE, AND I CAN BARELY CONTAIN MY TERROR AT WHAT THEY’LL BE LIKE ONCE THEY HIT PUBERTY. THE DIFFERENCE IN STANDARDS BETWEEN THE CHARLIE ONES AND OUR CHARLIE THREES IS BECOMING MORE AND MORE APPARENT. THEY’RE STILL KEEPING PACE (OR CLOSE TO IT---AN AVERAGE OF 93% COMPARATIVE SCORES) WITH THE CHARLIE ONES, STUDY AND SKILL WISE, BUT THEY’RE EXUDING TWO OR THREE TIMES AS MUCH BULLSHIT FACTOR---BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS, AS THE SPOOKS CALL THEM. JUST THE OTHER DAY, 311 HACKED OUR SECURITY SYSTEM, AND UPLOADED A VIRUS THAT REPLACED THE “TOP SECRET” STAMP ON ALL OVER OUR LETTERS WITH AN EMBLEM OF A GRUNT’S HEAD EXPLODING INTO CONFETTI. IT’S AMUSING, BUT IT’S NOT THE KIND OF EXAMPLE WE WANT THEM TO SET.

MAY 14TH, 2545

WE’VE BEEN HAVING SOME SERIOUS TEAMWORK ISSUES WITH 347 AND 363, AND TODAY THINGS FINALLY CAME TO A HEAD. I HAVEN’T PUT ANYTHING DOWN ABOUT IT, BECAUSE (AS I GUESS IS LIKELY APPARENT) I HAVEN’T HAD MUCH TIME TO WRITE ANYTHING, BUT THIS ONE IS DEFINITELY WORTH MENTIONING. FOR THE LAST YEAR OR SO, 347 AND 363 (WHO’VE ALWAYS HAD A TENSE RELATIONSHIP) HAVE BEEN HAVE A COVERT LITTLE POWER STRUGGLE, WITH 347 ATTEMPTING TO USURP HIS POSITION AS SQUAD LEADER. IT’S TRIVIAL AND POINTLESS---OR AT LEAST, I THINK IT IS---BUT THAT ISN’T STOPPING THEM.

SOMETHING LIKE THIS HAS BEEN BREWING, BUT WHAT’S SURPRISING IS THAT IT ACTUALLY CLOSELY MIRRORED A PROBLEM THE CHARLIE ONES HAD---SPECIFICALLY BETWEEN [S-144] AND [S-077]. DURING A TRAINING SKIRMISH, WE PAIRED GOLD AND SCARLET TEAMS AGAINST CRIMSON AND CYAN, GIVING EACH AN OBJECTIVE TO ACCOMPLISH. CRIMSON AND CYAN WERE SUPPOSED TO ESCORT A PACKAGE (PLAYED BY ONE OF THE DI’S) TO AN EZ, AND GOLD AND CRIMSON WERE SUPPOSED TO STOP THEM. 347 CAME UP WITH AN AMBUSH PLAN THAT CAUGHT CRIMSON ALMOST PERFECTLY OFF GUARD, BUT CYAN COUNTERED AND CUT SCARLET OFF FROM GOLD---WITH 347 TRAPPED WITH SCARLET. SCARLET’S OWN LEADER (351) PANICKED AND GOT HIT, SO SHE TOOK CONTROL OF THEM.

AS THIS WAS HAPPENING, HOWEVER, CRIMSON REGROUPED AND MADE A BEELINE FOR THE PICKUP ZONE. 363 GAVE THE ORDER TO PURSUE, BREAKING THE PLAN, AND MANAGED TO GET IN FRONT OF THEM AND DRIVE THEM BACK INTO A CROSSFIRE WITH SCARLET. SCARLET AND GOLD PULLED IT OUT BY THE SKIN OF THEIR TEETH, BUT THE MOMENT THE SHOOTING STOPPED, 347 WENT OFF ON 363---AND IN THE RESULTING STRUGGLE, THEY BOTH ENDED UP IN PRETTY BAD SHAPE. AFTER IT WAS ALL SAID AND DONE, GOLD RALLIED AROUND 363, WHILE SCARLET MADE A SHOW OF SUPPORTING 347. TO CUT STRAIGHT TO THE POINT, WE HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO SEPARATE THEM, AND, UNDER LASZLO’S DIRECTION, WE PLACED 347 IN SCARLET. THE MOMENT WE DID, 351 OFFERED HER THE ROLE OF SQUAD LEADER. NEEDLESS TO SAY, WE’RE GOING TO BE WATCHING THEM VERY, VERY CLOSELY.

JUNE 16TH, 2545

GOLD TEAM IS USUALLY THE BEST BEHAVED OF THE BUNCH (ANTICS WITH 347 NOTWITHSTANDING), BUT WE’VE BEEN HAVING ALL SORTS OF ISSUES WITH THEM LATELY. IT’S STEMMING, NATURALLY, FROM THE RECENT TRANSFER; AFTER WE ROTATED 347 INTO SCARLET TEAM, WE WERE FACED WITH SIX PEOPLE IN SCARLET, AND FOUR IN GOLD. WE DIDN’T WANT TO TAKE ONE OF THE SCARLET MEMBERS AND PUT THEM IN GOLD, HOWEVER, BECAUSE THAT WOULD BE ASKING FOR TROUBLE, SO INSTEAD, WE DECIDED TO SHIFT THE RANKS AROUND. ANYTHING LIKE THIS IS TRICKY, BECAUSE THE SQUADS HAVE ALL BEEN TOGETHER SINCE INDUCTION DAY, BUT IT’S NECESSARY AS WELL. BESIDES THE THRASHING WE’D GET FROM ONI, WE CAN’T AFFORD TO UPSET THE TEAM DYNAMIC BY HAVING UNEVEN SQUADS.

SOME OF THE CANDIDATES ARE MORE INCLUSIVE THAN OTHERS, SO NATURALLY WE LOOKED AT THEM FIRST. ANYONE GOOD AT HANDLING CHANGE OR SOCIABLE WAS FAVORABLE, BUT WE ALSO WANTED SOMEONE RELATIVELY MILD, TO HELP CALM THINGS DOWN. FOR TAKING ONE OUT OF SCARLET, THIS WAS AN EASY PICK; 366 IS BY FAR ONE THE MOST EASYGOING OF THE TEAM, SO WE WERE QUICK TO TAKE HIM AND SEND HIM TO ANOTHER SQUAD. PICKING THE NEXT PERSON WAS A BIT HARDER; IT WAS A CHALLENGE TO FIND AN INCLUSIVE, WELL ADJUSTED SQUAD MEMBER WHO WASN’T A SQUAD LEADER. IN THE END, WE DECIDED TO GRAB 333 OUT OF OLIVE AND PLACE HIM IN GOLD (PUTTING 366 INTO HIS OLD SLOT). WE CHOSE HIM FOR A COUPLE OF REASONS; ONE, WHILE HE DOESN’T HANDLE CHANGE WELL, HE’S FAIRLY AMIABLE, AND TWO, HE IS AT A ROUGHLY SIMILAR LEVEL TO 366 IN TERMS OF ABILITY---IT WILL MAKE THE TRANSITION FOR OLIVE MUCH EASIER TO HAVE SOMEONE SIMILARLY TALENTED TAKING 333’S OLD SPOT.

SO, THE GOOD NEWS IS THAT SCARLET AND OLIVE ARE BOTH STILL VERY STABLE. OLIVE IS TAKING THE CHANGE IN STRIDE, AND SCARLET, QUITE FRANKLY, IS ACTUALLY PLEASED---THEY’VE ALWAYS LIKED 347 (SOMETHING I CAN’T QUITE UNDERSTAND). UNFORTUNATELY, SUCH STABILITY ISN’T PRESENT EVERYWHERE. GOLD IS FEELING THE CHANGE QUITE HEAVILY, AND ARE SUFFERING FOR IT. THROUGHOUT TRAINING, THEY’VE ALWAYS BEEN ONE OF THE BEST SQUADS, AND HAVE CONSISTENTLY RANKED HIGHEST IN TEAM COHESION DUE TO 363’S LEADERSHIP. THEY HAD THEIR DYNAMIC DOWN TO AN EXACT SCIENCE, HOWEVER, AND 333 IS A WRENCH IN THE WORKS FOR THEM. WHILE THEY’VE MAINTAINED THE SAME COMBAT SCORES, THEY’VE DROPPED IN THE OVERALL STANDINGS TO 9TH, THANKS TO A DROP IN THEIR COORDINATION STATISTICS. THEY’RE GOING TO HAVE AN UPHILL BATTLE TO GET THEIR TEAM COORDINATED AGAIN, AND WHILE I’M QUITE CERTAIN 363 WILL BE ABLE TO DO IT---HE HAS AN AFFINITY FOR BUILDING TEAMS---I’M NOT SURE HOW LONG IT WILL TAKE.

JULY 6TH, 2545

2546
WE FINALLY HIT PHASE THREE OF THE TRAINING TODAY, AND THINGS ARE LOOKING UP. THE CANDIDATES ARE SURGING AHEAD, AND WE ARE IDENTIFYING OUR TOP INDIVIDUALS WITH MUCH GREATER CERTAINTY. SOME ARE SURPRISES, OTHERS ARE EASIER TO EXPECT. THEY’RE ALL DOING WELL---GOLD IN PARTICULAR HAS SHOWN MARKED IMPROVEMENT IN THE LAST FEW MONTHS, FINALLY RECOVERING FROM THE TRANSFER A YEAR AGO---AND THE STAFF SEEMS PLEASED WITH THEIR PROGRESS. IT’S ALL GOOD NEWS, IN GENERAL; THE NEXT STAGE OF TRAINING WILL LAST ONLY TWO YEARS, BUT WILL BE CRITICAL TO THEIR DEVELOPMENT. HAVING THEM ENTER AT THE TOP OF THEIR GAME WILL BE CRITICAL. THEIR RELATIVE SKILL TO THE ORIGINAL CLASS I’S IS HOVERING AT 90% FOR THE GROUP, AND AT 100% FOR A FEW SELECT INDIVIDUALS---MUCH BETTER THAN ANTICIPATED BY ONI.

THE 100% CANDIDATES, ARE, BY AN LARGE, MOSTLY THOSE WITH GENETIC PROFILES EQUAL OR VERY NEARLY EQUAL THE ORIGINALS. 338 AND 343, WHO HAVE CONSISTENTLY PROVEN THEMSELVES TO BE OUR BEST OPERATORS, ARE MATCHING THE ORIGINAL II’S ALMOST IMPOSSIBLY CLOSE. THREE OTHERS---341, 309, AND 324---ARE FOLLOWING A HAIR BEHIND, NIPPING AT THEIR HEELS. THEIR PARTICULAR SPECIALTIES ARE SHINING THROUGH CLEARLY NOW; 338 HAS EVOLVED INTO THE BEST SNIPER IN THE GROUP, KEEPING PACE WITH HOW [S-058] DID AT HIS AGE; 343, 309, AND 324 ARE EXPERTS IN CLOSE QUARTERS, WITH 343 A BIT FARTHER AHEAD BECAUSE OF MORE VARIED SKILLS, AND 341 IS PROVING TO BE LIKELY THE MOST ADAPTABLE OF THEM ALL---THOUGH NOT AS POLISHED IN ANY ONE FIELD AS ANY OF THEM, HE’S GOOD WITH PRACTICALLY ANYTHING.

MOST OF OUR OTHER STRONG CANDIDATES---311, 319, 363, 347, 351, 356, 332, 329, 314, 349, TO JUST NAME A FEW---ARE DOING STRONG AS WELL, PERFECTING A VARIED ARRAY OF TALENTS. THE “LESSER” CANDIDATES ARE NOTABLY LESS SPECIALIZED, BUT THEY’RE STILL PASSABLE IN ALL OF THE NECESSARY FIELDS. THE DIFFERENCES WILL LIKELY WIDEN ONCE THE NEW TRAINING REGIME GOES INTO FULL GEAR, BUT THE DI’S ARE PREDICTING THAT THE WEAKER CANDIDATES WILL KEEP UP OUT OF RAW DETERMINATION---WHILE IT’S TRUE THAT A LOT OF THE CANDIDATES ARE OF VASTLY LOWER GENETIC QUALITY THAN THE ORIGINAL CHARLIE ONES, THEY ALL HAVE THE SAME FIERCE WILLPOWER.

JULY 8TH, 2546

I’VE BEEN FEELING INCREASINGLY LIKE THE PROJECT IS UNDER ASSAULT FROM THE OUTSIDE, EVER SINCE THE MONEY RAID THREE YEARS AGO. I FEEL CRAZY EVEN WRITING IT (LET ALONE SAYING IT ALOUD---I DON’T WANT TO THINK ABOUT WHAT THE DI’S WOULD SAY IF THEY HEARD ME), BUT I’M FEELING MORE AND MORE LIKE I’M BEHIND ENEMY LINES. WHEN I FIRST ARRIVED HERE…IT WASN’T COMFORTING (FOR DAMN SURE) BUT AT LEAST I FELT LIKE I WAS ON THE SAME SIDE AS MOST OF THE PEOPLE AROUND ME (EXCEPT FOR THE SPOOKS---NEVER TRUSTED THEM).

NOW THINGS FEEL LIKE A CONSTANT GAME OF CHESS; I MAKE A MOVE, AND MY UNSEEN OPPONENTS MAKE ONE TO COUNTER IT. I DON’T KNOW WHO THEY ARE---THE ONI ELEMENTS BACKING THIS THING, THEIR NAVSPECWAR CONTACTS, RICH’S LAPDOGS, OR GOD KNOWS WHO ELSE---BUT THERE IS DEFINITELY SOMEONE ELSE WORKING AGAINST ME. SUBTLE, LITTLE THINGS; LISTENING DEVICES IN MY ROOM WITHOUT REASON, OBSCURE DATA INTRUSIONS, PSEUDO SPY STUFF LIKE THAT. I DON’T KNOW WHAT THEY WANT, OR WHY THEY WANT IT, BUT I CAN’T BE SURE OF ANYTHING.

DID THE OTHER PROGRAM’S GO THROUGH THIS KIND OF THING? I CAN’T BE THE ONLY ONE. HALSEY LIKELY DID, BUT A LOT OF THE HAZING PROBABLY WAS A RESULT OF HER CIVILIAN STATUS. THE CHARLIE TWO’S WERE RUN THROUGH CLEANLY AND EFFICIENTLY; I DOUBT THEY DID. AND SPARTAN-III…WELL, I KNOW IT EXISTS, BUT BEYOND THAT, IT’S A MYSTERY. ACKERSON IS RUNNING IT, SO IT’S GOT HEAVY HITTERS TO BACK IT UP, BUT ALSO A LOT OF ENEMIES. MAYBE I SHOULDN’T HAVE TRIED SO HARD TO PISS ONI OFF IN THE EARLY DAYS. THINGS MIGHT BE SIMPLER NOW.

NOVEMBER 13TH, 2546

WE HAD TO PERFORM ONE OF OUR FIRST MAJOR “CRACKDOWNS” THIS WEEK, AND I’VE BEEN FEELING A LITTLE PUT OFF BY THE WHOLE AFFAIR SINCE IT STARTED. SOMETIMES I FEEL LIKE THE ONLY REASON I KEEP THIS JOURNAL IS SO THAT I HAVE A PLACE TO COMPLAIN TO, AND THAT DOESN’T ALWAYS SIT VERY WELL WITH ME. IT’S ALL OLD NEWS, BUT I’LL SAY IT AGAIN FOR CLARITY; I JOINED THE MILITARY SO THAT I COULD DO MY PART TO HELP HUMANITY, FIRST AT FIGHTING THE INSURRECTION, THEN THE COVENANT. I NEVER PLANNED ON SPENDING SIX YEARS OF MY LIFE COOPED UP UNDERGROUND---AND AS AMAZING AS THESE KIDS ARE, AS MUCH AS I KNOW WHAT WE’RE DOING IS NECESSARY, AS MUCH AS I TRY TO KEEP MY OWN EGO AND DESIRES IN CHECK, ITS HARD TO TAKE SOMETIMES.

THIS ALL PROBABLY SOUNDS LIKE NONSENSE WITHOUT THE PROPER BACKGROUND, SO I SHOULD PROBABLY SHELL SOME OF THAT OUT. A FEW WEEKS AGO, GOSSIP GOT AROUND THAT SOME OF OUR CANDIDATES MIGHT NOT HAVE BEEN AS FOCUSED ON THEIR TRAINING AS THEY SHOULD BE: AKA, INVOLVED ROMANTICALLY WITH EACH OTHER IN SOME WAY. A LITTLE DIGGING LED TO A BRIEF INVESTIGATION, AND IT PRETTY MUCH BOILED DOWN TO AS FOLLOWS: 363, LEADER OF GOLD TEAM, WAS INVOLVED WITH ONE OF HIS SQUAD MATES, 374. NOT EXACTLY UNHEARD OF OR UNEXPECTED; PUT 50 PUBESCENT KIDS IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO EACH OTHER FOR A FEW YEARS, EVEN TIGHTLY DISCIPLINED ONES, AND YOU’LL HAVE SOME SPARKS. THE PREVIOUS CLASSES ALL HAD THEM; BLACK, GREY, AND BLUE WERE ALL INVOLVED IN SOME LEVEL OF SCANDAL FROM CLASS I, TO JUST NAME A FEW.

WE WERE PREPARED, THUS, AND LASZLO STEPPED IN TO SORT THINGS OUT. LET 363 AND 374 KNOW THAT WHILE THEIR FEELINGS WERE UNDERSTANDABLE, THEY HAD TO MAKE SURE TO KEEP A CLEAR HEAD, STAY DISCIPLINED, ETC. SOUNDED LIKE HE HAD PERSONAL EXPERIENCE IN THE WHOLE MATTER (THOUGH I MIGHT BE PROJECTING, AS I DON’T REALLY KNOW HIM WELL ENOUGH TO SAY). ALL IN ALL, THINGS WORKED OUT JUST FINE, RELATIVELY; THERE SHOULDN’T BE ANY CAUSE FOR CONCERN. YET DESPITE THIS, I’M STILL ANNOYED AT ONI, AND ANGRY AT MYSELF FOR BEING ANNOYED. TRAINING KIDS TO BE SOLDIERS IS BAD ENOUGH…BUT MANAGING THEIR RELATIONSHIPS FOR THEM? THIS IS WHAT WE’RE REDUCED TO? I DON’T WANT TO INDULGE IN SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS, BECAUSE I KNOW THAT ONCE I DO, IT’LL BE WAY TO HARD TO LET GO OF…BUT I WONDER HOW IT ALL ENDED UP LIKE THIS SOMETIMES. I REALLY DO.

DECEMBER 11TH, 2546

2547
I RECEIVED A LETTER TODAY FROM LYLA. I THOUGHT IT WAS A MISTAKE AT FIRST, BECAUSE THERE WAS NO WAY THAT SHE COULD HAVE KNOWN MY LOCATION, BUT APPARENTLY ADMIRAL RICH HAD IT FORWARDED TO ME ON HIS PERSONAL ORDERS. THAT ALONE WAS SURPRISING. BUT IT WASN’T THE ONLY UNEXPECTED TWIST. IT WAS A SHOCK TO HEAR FROM HER AFTER ALL THESE YEARS, BUT THAT WAS HARDLY THE BIGGEST SURPRISE.

THE LETTER IS A WILL.

THERE WAS NO WAY I COULD HAVE KNOWN, BUT SHE WAS ON SKOPJE TWO MONTHS AGO WHEN IT FELL. SHE WAS ON THE SURFACE WHEN IT WAS GLASSED; COMPANY RECORDS, WHICH I ACCESSED WITH THE HELP OF SOME OF ONI’S INFILTRATION SOFTWARE, REVEAL SHE WAS WORKING UNTIL THE LAST MOMENT, SCRAMBLING TO SEND AS MUCH DATA ON HER WEAPONS PROJECTS AS SHE COULD TO THEIR ORBITING TRANSPORT BEFORE THE COVENANT REACHED HER. I CAN’T BEGIN TO DESCRIBE THE SURREAL FEELINGS I FELT WHEN I READ ABOUT IT. IT’S BEEN YEARS, BUT SOMEHOW…I DON’T KNOW WHAT I THOUGHT, BUT IT DEFINITELY WAS NEVER THAT THINGS WOULD END UP LIKE THIS.

THE MESSAGE IS A SHORT ONE, JUST A LIST OF A FEW SMALL TRINKETS SHE WANTED TO BE SENT TO ME IN THE EVENT OF HER DEATH. A FEW MEMENTOS OF THE TRIP, A STACK OF HOLO-STILLS---EMPTY, POINTLESS THINGS. BUT THERE'S ALSO AN ATTACHMENT, A TEXT FILE WITHOUT A NAME, ACCOMPANYING IT. I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT IS, THOUGH A DOZEN OBVIOUS SUGGESTIONS SPRING TO MIND. I’M OVERWHELMED WITH CURIOSITY.

BUT I CAN’T OPEN IT.

JUNE 28TH, 2547

SOME UPSTART DI SENT ME A COMMUNIQUE TWO DAYS AGO, REQUESTING A REPRIMAND OF LASZLO---BECAUSE HE WAS, AND I QUOTE, “PUSHING [THE RECRUITS] TO HARD, TO FAST”. NOT A FAN OF THE GUY (HE THINKS HE’S THE SHIT BECAUSE HE WORKED ON BETA COMPANY, DESPITE THE WILDLY DIFFERENT CIRCUMSTANCES), AND I WAS HALFWAY INTO A RESPONSE TELLING HIM WHERE TO SHOVE HIS OPINION WHEN RICH'S ONI BACKERS INTERCEPTED THE MESSAGE AND PUT HIM UP FOR IMMEDIATE PSYCHIATRIC REVIEW, IN PREPARATION FOR IMMEDIATELY DROPPING HIM FROM THE PROGRAM.

MY FRIEND ADMIRAL RICH GAVE ME SOME BACKUP ON THIS ONE (I’M FULLY CONVINCED HE’S PLAYING BOTH ME AND HIS BACKERS OFF EACH OTHER), AND WE MANAGED TO KEEP THEM FROM DROPPING LAZ FROM THE PROGRAM. THE PANEL OF SHRINKS COULDN’T BE AVOIDED, THOUGH, AND NOW I’VE GOT LASZLO BREATHING DOWN MY NECK TOO. I’M REALLY NOT CUT OUT FOR ALL THIS FAUX-POLITICAL BULLSHIT. I’VE SENT A MESSAGE TO LASZLO EXPLAINING THE PROBLEM, AND HOPEFULLY HE’LL LISTEN. I’VE GOT FEW ENOUGH FRIENDS HERE ALREADY. IF I LOSE ANOUGHER ONE, IT MAKES LIFE JUST THAT MUCH HARDER.

OH, AND DEAN INFORMS ME THAT 363 AND 347 JUST GOT THEMSELVES INTO A FIGHT…AGAIN. THE BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS IN THE WHOLE UNIT ARE GROWING WORSE BY THE DAY, BUT THOSE TWO ARE GETTING TO BE A REAL HAZARD. DEAN AND THREE OTHER DI’S MANAGED TO CONTAIN THEIR SQUABBLE WITHOUT LASZLO’S HELP, BUT THE PROBLEM IS STILL THERE. TRANSFERRING THEM TWO YEARS AGO APPARENTLY HASN’T DONE ANY GOOD.

SEPTEMBER 5TH, 2547

MY DISCRETE “DISCUSSIONS” WITH LAZ CONTINUE WITH FREQUENCY. IT’S FUNNY; AFTER ALMOST SEVEN YEARS OF SILENCE, THE MOMENT WE START TALKING ABOUT THINGS SERIOUSLY, WE HIT IT OFF. I THINK I’VE LEARNED MORE ABOUT ONI, THE CHARLIE ONES, AND THE BRASS IN THE LAST MONTH THAN IN THE PAST FIVE YEARS. LASZLO WAS NO RANDOM RECRUIT LIKE HE; HE’S TOP NOTCH ALL THE WAY, SCARILY INTELLIGENT AND FULLY IMMERSED IN THE BLACK OPS CULTURE. I’M WISHING DEARLY THAT I’D HAVE TRIED HARDER EARLY TO ESTABLISH CONTACT. WE MIGHT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO CHANGE THINGS, GENUINELY IMPROVE THE ODDS, INSTEAD OF ENACTING LAST RESORT MEASURES LIKE WE ARE NOW.

AMONG THE WEALTH OF THINGS WE’VE DISCUSSED IN THE PAST COUPLE OF WEEKS, A FEW KEY NUGGETS OF RELEVANT INFORMATION PEEK OUT. ONE, IS THAT RKD IS GOING TO BE PITCHING THEIR NEWEST SUIT OF POWER ARMOR, WHICH WE MAY OR MAY NOT HAVE A REPRESENTATIVE THERE TO OBSERVE. SECOND IS THAT LASZLO HAS CONSIDERABLY LOWER CLEARANCES THAN ME, BUT KNOWS HOW TO USE HIS MUCH BETTER. HE’S GIVEN ME MORE THAN ONE LEAD THAT TURNED UP INTERESTING INFORMATION (CASE IN POINT: HE MENTIONED A SUBSECTION OF SECTION III, BETA-5, IN PASSING, AND JUST THAT ONE LITTLE PROMPT HELPED ME REFINE MY SEARCH; FROM JUST THAT ONE CLUE, I MANAGED TO FIND CSVS ON TWO SEPARATE SPECIAL FORCES UNITS---NOBLE AND HEADHUNTER---WHICH ARE ALMOST DEFINITELY SIERRAS).

BESIDES THE CSVS I TURNED UP, LAZ HAS BEEN EQUALLY HELPFUL IN LOOKING NAVSPECWAR. HE’S DONE SOME “DIGGING” AS HE CALLS, IT AND TURNED UP AN ADDITIONAL THREE SIERRA TEAMS---MAYBE MORE---ALL WITHOUT CLEAR ORIGINS. I GUESS THE LAST PART ISN’T SURPRISING, GIVEN THE SECRECY THAT SURROUNDS ALL OF THE DIFFERENT PROGRAMS, BUT IT’S STILL A BIT DISQUIETING. MAKES ME WONDER WHAT OUR ONI BACKERS THINK OF US; OUR CLASSIFICATION AND SECRECY ISN’T NEARLY AS GOOD, SO OUR RELATIVE VALUE, COMPARED TO THE OTHER SIERRA GROUPS, IS SUSPICIOUS. AND GIVEN HOW CALLOUSLY ONI WASTED SIX HUNDRED SIERRA THREES---TOP CLASSIFIED, HIGH VALUE PROGRAMS---I’M ALMOST AFRAID TO THINK ABOUT HOW THEY’LL DEPLOY OUR SQUADS.

SEPTEMBER 23RD, 2547

I’M BEGINNING TO SERIOUSLY WONDER WHAT ONI’S INTRUSION SOFTWARE CAN PICK UP. LASZLO’S BEEN WATCHING THE NETWORK TIGHT, AND SAYS DATA TRAFFIC INCURSIONS HAVE SPIKED SINCE WE STARTED OUR COVERT CORRESPONDENCE. WE’RE IN THE DEAD CENTER OF THE CURRENT TRAINING PHASE, SO IT’S NOT RELATED TO THAT. ME AND LAZ ARE THE CAUSE, WITHOUT A DOUBT. THE ONLY QUESTION IS WHETHER THE INCREASED TRAFFIC IS COMING FROM THEM TRYING TO BREAK OUR CODED SECTIONS…OR WHETHER THEY’VE ALREADY BROKEN IT AND ARE COMPILING EVIDENCE AGAINST US.

MY ACTUAL HANDS-ON WORK ON THE PROJECT HAS BEEN THINNING SINCE IN-SUIT TRAINING BEGAN, BECAUSE THINGS ARE SO MUCH MORE TECHNICAL AND DANGEROUS---AND, AS 341 MIGHT DELICATELY PUT IT, I’M GODDAMN OLD. LUCKILY, RICH'S BACKERS IN ONI HAVE BEEN COMPENSATING WITH MORE WORK ON THE PLANNING STAGES; NO BREAKS IN THE CARDS FOR ME, I GUESS. THEY’VE GOT A WHOLE LIST OF PLANNING AND ORGANIZING THEY WANT DONE, AND MIND NUMBING AS IT IS, AT LEAST IT KEEPS ME OCCUPIED.

THEIR CURRENT DEMAND IS AN IN-DEPTH DEPLOYMENT SCHEDULE (READ: RECOMMENDATION) FOR THE CHARLIE THREE SQUADS IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING AUGMENTATION. I KEEP TELLING THEM IT’S TOO EARLY SO START PLANNING THOSE KINDS OF THINGS; WE DON’T KNOW WHAT THE WAR WILL LOOK LIKE A YEAR FROM NOW, WE DON’T KNOW WHAT TEAM’S WILL MAKE IT THROUGH AUGMENTATION, AND WE HAVE NO DATA TO CORRESPOND THE TWO---BUT THEY DON’T LISTEN. HOW EXACTLY THEY INTEND TO DEPLOY OUR SQUADS WITHOUT GIVING THEMSELVES AWAY TO PARANGOSKY AND THE OTHER TALKING SKULLS OF ONI UPPER ECHELON SEEMS TO BE SOMETHING THEY DIDN'T FEEL FIT TO SHARE WITH ME. TO HUMOR THEM, I’VE BEEN READING UP ON THE CURRENT THEATERS OF THE WAR, MAKING NOTES AND TRYING TO PREDICT WHERE IT’LL SPREAD NEXT. NICE, TIDY LISTS AND CHARTS FOR THEM TO FOAM OVER, WHILE ME AND LASZLO TAKE CAR OF THE REAL MATTERS BEHIND THE SCENES.

OCTOBER 15TH, 2547

2548
WHEN I LOGGED ON TODAY TO MY CONSOLE, I WAS GREETED WITH A MESSAGE FROM LASZLO ABOUT DATA TAMPERING AND INTRUSION. NOT REALLY AN ORIGINAL TOPIC; "DIRTY ONI" (MY FUN NAME FOR RICH'S BACKERS) HAS BEEN SCOURING OR DATA RECORDS SINCE THE START OF THE PROJECT, LOOKING FOR ANY COMPROMISING INFORMATION ON US THEY CAN FIND. WHAT MADE TODAY UNUSUAL, HOWEVER, WERE TWO THINGS: ONE, THE INTRUSION WAS SUCCESSFUL, AND TWO, THE INTRUSION DID NOT COME FROM OUR BACKERS, RICH, OR ANY OF THE OTHER MEN IN BLACK. INSTEAD, IT CAME FROM WITHIN THE COMPOUND ITSELF---AND NOT ONLY THAT, BUT FROM WITHIN THE RANKS OF THE CANDIDATES.

RIGHT NOW, LASZLO IS RUNNING COVERT DAMAGE PATROL AND TRYING TO FIGURE OUT THE EXTENT OF THE PROBLEM. FROM WHAT WE CAN TELL, THE INTERLOPERS GOT ACCESS TO THE SYSTEM SOMETIME DURING THE ARMORY INSPECTION (WHERE THE CANDIDATES WERE ALL OFF DUTY, AND ME AND LASZLO WERE BOTH STUCK IN THE AFT SECTION OF THE BASE) AND COPIED EVERYTHING. NOT JUST THE NORMAL BASE FILES; EVERYTHING. CLASSIFIED ONI INTELLIGENCE BRIEFINGS, ME AND LAZ’S SECRET CORRESPONDENCE, EVEN MY PERSONAL JOURNAL. MUCH OF IT IS ENCRYPTED…BUT LASZLO HASN’T BEEN ABLE TO TRACE THE HACK, AND ANYONE GOOD ENOUGH BREAK INTO OUR SYSTEM, COPY EVERYTHING, AND LEAVE WITHOUT A TRACE WOULD BREAK THROUGH THE ENCRYPTION IN A BREEZE.

ONLY A SMALL NUMBER OF TRAINEES POSSESS THE COMPUTER EXPERTISE TO ACCOMPLISH SUCH A FEAT, BUT THE PROBLEM NOW IS EVIDENCE. EVEN IS LASZLO MANAGES TO TRACE THEM (UNLIKELY) THEY’LL PROBABLY HAVE IT STORED SOMEWHERE SECURE---OR BETTER YET, THEY MIGHT HAVE JUST COMMITTED THE INFORMATION TO MEMORY AND WIPED IT. I’VE ALREADY GOT A FEW SUSPECTS IN MY MIND (319, 311, AND 341 ARE TOPPING THAT LIST) BUT I DOUBT IT’LL DO MUCH GOOD. WE’LL NEVER BE ABLE TO PIN IT ON THEM. AND EVEN IF WE DID, THEN WHAT? BOOT THEM FROM THE PROGRAM? RICH WOULD NEVER ALLOW IT, NOT AFTER THE MONEY THEY’VE SUNK INTO THEIR TRAINING. AND THUS, I’VE DECIDED TO HAVE LASZLO CALL OFF HIS INVESTIGATION AND FOCUS SOLELY ON REPAIRING ANY DAMAGE THEY MIGHT HAVE CAUSED (THOUGH THEY DON’T APPEAR TO HAVE DONE ANYTHING BUT COPY DOWN DATA).

THERE’S TOO MUCH ELSE GOING ON TOO WASTE OUR TIME CHASING GHOSTS. IF THEY WANT INFORMATION, SO BE IT. MAYBE IT’LL HELP THEM UNDERSTAND EVERYTHING…AND IF NOT, WE’LL BE READY.

JANUARY 17TH, 2548

LASZLO AND ME BOTH WANTED TO PATTERN OUR FINAL HONOR’S EXERCISE AFTER THE SIERRA-III PROGRAM AND CONDUCT THEM AFTER AUGMENTATION, BUT THAT LIKELY WON’T BE A POSSIBILITY. OUR BACKERS HAVEN'T SAID ANYTHING EITHER WAY, BUT THEY’LL LIKELY WANT TO DEPLOY THE NEW SQUADS AS FAST AS HUMANLY POSSIBLE AFTER AUGMENTATION--AGAIN, HOW IS A MYSTERY, BUT THEY DON'T SEEM CONCERNED. ME AND LASZLO ARE ALREADY DOING WHAT WE CAN TO HELP EASE THAT QUICK TRANSITION---AND THE CEREMONY IS ONE OF SEVERAL OF OUR MEASURES.

THE CEREMONY IS BASED OFF THE ORIGINAL THREE MODEL, BUT WE’VE MADE SOME CHANGES TO HELP ACCOMMODATE THE DIFFERENCES IN THE PROJECTS. FOR ONE, WE DECIDED TO ENROLL ALL OF THEM INTO IT, INSTEAD OF JUST THREE SQUADS; REASONS ABOUND, BUT MOSTLY BECAUSE WE CAN’T REALLY DECIDE WHO TO CUT---AND BECAUSE IT’LL BE HELPFUL TO SEE THEM ALL IN A SERIOUS, FULL ACTION SCENARIO, WORKING AGAINST EACH OTHER. MOST OF THE OTHER DIFFERENCES STEM FROM THAT; A BIGGER AREA (10 SQUARE KILOMETERS, AS OPPOSED TO 3), MORE DI’S, AND GREATER WEAPON SELECTION (TO HELP FULLY REPLICATE THEIR LIKELY FIELD CONDITIONS).

THE RESULTS, AS THEY WERE, WEREN’T WHOLLY UNSURPRISING, BUT DID INCLUDE A FEW SMALL SHOCKS. CONTRARY TO MY EXPECTATIONS, NEITHER TAN, CYAN, OR CRIMSON WON---DESPITE THEIR DRASTICALLY HIGHER GENETIC MATCHES. IN THE END, GOLD TEAM ACTUALLY WON; THEY KILLED OFF TWO TEAMS ON THEIR OWN (SCARLET AND SILVER), THEN CAME OUT ON TOP WHEN THEY RAN INTO TAN, CYAN, AND CRIMSON---SIMULTANEOUSLY. TAN PROBABLY SHOULD HAVE WON, BUT 338 OVERESTIMATED HIS TEAMMATES---OR HE DEPLOYED THEM LIKE HE WOULD HAVE HIMSELF---AND THEY GOT INTO SITUATIONS TO DEEP EVEN FOR THEM. THE FINAL STANDINGS WERE GOLD, TAN, CRIMSON, CYAN, SCARLET, ORANGE, TURQUOISE, VIOLET, SILVER, AND FINALLY, OLIVE---BUT THE REAL CONTEST WAS BETWEEN THE TOP FOUR. WE WERE UNABLE TO SECURE THE HAYABUSA PROTOTYPES LIKE WE’D HOPED, SO WE HAVE NO REWARD FOR THEM ASIDE FROM BRAGGING RIGHTS---BUT FOR US, THE REWARD IS SEEING WHICH GROUPS ARE READY AND WHICH ONES STILL NEED WORK. NOW ALL WE HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT IS GETTING THEM READY IN TIME.

MAY 28TH, 2548

LIKE I’VE SAID BEFORE, IT CAN BE AN INTERESTING AND FUNNY TEST TO SEE WHAT STICKS WITH YOU OVER THE YEARS, AND WHAT DOESN’T. IT’S SUPPOSED TO BE THE IMPORTANT THINGS; YOUR FIRST KISS, FIRST BIG SUCCESS AT LIFE, THE DAY YOU GRADUATE COLLEGE, WHATEVER; THINGS THAT WILL HELP YOU THROUGH THE REST OF YOUR LIFE. MEMORIES TO CHERISH. YET THAT ISN’T REALLY THE WAY IT WORKS. THE GOOD STUFF NEVER STAYS WITH YOU; IT’S FLEETING, TRANSIENT; EVANESCENT. THE HARDER WE TRY TO HOLD ONTO OUR GOOD MEMORIES, THE QUICKER THEY FALL AWAY. AND AS YOU WOULD EXPECT, THE OPPOSITE HOLDS TRUE OF OUR NEGATIVE MEMORIES; THEY SIMMER, HAUNT US NO MATTER HOW MUCH WE WISH WE COULD LEAVE THEM BEHIND.

SOME DAYS I FEEL LIKE ALL I HAVE LEFT IS THE BAD MEMORIES. THE REASON IS ALWAYS VARIED, NEVER THE SAME, BUT THE FEELING IS ALWAYS, ALWAYS CONSISTENT. YET THOSE BAD MEMORIES CAN SOMETIMES BE HELPFUL; THEY CAN TEACH US THINGS, KEEP US FROM REPEATING OUR PAST MISTAKES…SO FOR ALL THE PAIN THEY CAUSE, THEY HAVE SOME SLIGHT, FEEBLE REDEEMING VALUE. THAT SEEMS TO BE MY CASE TODAY. I NEVER ENJOYED THE MANDATORY PSYCHE COURSES DURING TRAINING; MAYBE IT WAS BECAUSE I LOOKED DOWN ON IT AS PSEUDO-PSYCHIC BULLSHIT, OR MAYBE BECAUSE IT CUT TO CLOSE TO HOME. THIS LATE IN THE GAME, THE REASON DOESN’T REALLY MATTER. BECAUSE OF THAT, THOSE LESSONS, IRONICALLY ENOUGH, HAVE STAYED WITH ME FOR ALL THESE YEARS. IN PARTICULAR, THE LESSONS OF THE STAGES OF GRIEF NEVER SAT WELL WITH ME, AND ARE SOME OF MY CLEAREST MEMORIES.

IT’S ODD, BUT THEY’VE NEVER REALLY FELT RELEVANT TO ME BEFORE. I’VE SEEN PLENTY OF COMBAT, AND GOD KNOWS I’VE WATCHED PEOPLE KILLED, FRIENDS AND BUDDIES AND OTHER SOLDIERS JUST LIKE ME, CUT DOWN BY FATE OR CHANCE OR BLIND, RANDOM LUCK. BUT THERE’S SOMETHING DIFFERENT, SOMETHING THAT BUOYS YOU UP WHEN YOU LOSE PEOPLE IN THE FIELD. MAYBE IT’S JUST A SUBCONSCIOUS ACCEPTANCE OF IT ALL, AN INNER UNDERSTANDING THAT DEATH IN COMBAT IS INEVITABLE. MAYBE IT’S JUST THAT THE BONDS AREN’T AS STRONG. I DON’T KNOW; BUT WHATEVER IT IS, IT’S NOT THE SAME. NOT THE SAME AS WHAT I’M FEELING NOW; NOT AT ALL. I FINALLY UNDERSTAND, AND AT LAST, THOSE LESSONS ALL THOSE YEARS AGO ARE RELEVANT.

I DON’T NEED TO SAY WHY. LIKE I SAID, OUR WORST MEMORIES ARE ALWAYS THE ONES THAT LINGER LONGEST.

AND TODAY IS A DAY I’LL NEVER FORGET.

JULY 25TH, 2548

OUR EMOTIONS ARE STRANGE, MONSTROUS THINGS. SOMETIMES THEY CHOOSE THE MOST BIZARRE, RANDOM MOMENTS TO AMBUSH US; OTHER TIMES, THEY’RE PREDICTABLE AND OBVIOUS. AND IN THE LAST MONTH SINCE AUGMENTATION, I’VE COME TO FEEL THE SHEER POWER OF THEM MORE STRONGLY THAN I’VE HAD SINCE THE EARLY DAYS OF THE PROJECT. IT’S BEEN A ROLLER COASTER RIDE OF A MONTH; RECOVERING FROM THE BLOWS DEALT TO US AT AUGMENTATION, REORGANIZING THE REMAINING TEAMS, AND HELPING THE SPARTANS COME TO TERMS WITH THE CHANGES IN THEIR LIFE, BOTH PHYSICAL AND MENTAL.

TODAY MARKS AND END TO ALL OF THAT. THE FIRST SQUAD, GOLD TEAM, IS DEPARTING FOR THE FIELD TODAY. THEY'LL BE MASQUERADING AS S-III OPERATORS TO KEEP THE PROJECT A SECRET---DIRTY ONI IS NOW REFERRING TO THEM AS THE ARES DETACHMENT, IMPLYING THAT THEY'RE A SPECIALTY S-III UNIT---AND FIGHTING UNDER NAVSPECWAR AND POSSIBLY EVEN CLEAN ONI. BARELY A MONTH OF RECOVERY, AND THEY’RE ON THEIR WAY TO SOME DISTANT BATTLEGROUND, NEWLY MINTED, AND READY TO DO THEIR PART. IT’S INSPIRING TO WITNESS, EVEN IF THEY DON’T THINK SO. EIGHT YEARS OF TORTUOUS TRAINING, AUGMENTATION THAT WASTED ALMOST HALF THEIR NUMBER, EQUIPPED WITH EQUIPMENT THEY KNOW IS INFERIOR, LIKELY TO BE SENT ON MISSIONS THAT MAY OR MAY NOT BE SUICIDAL, AND STILL STAYING LOYAL, HOLDING TRUE. THE PRIDE WITHIN OUR LITTLE COMMUNITY OF DRILL INSTRUCTORS AND COVERT OPERATIONS AGENTS IS UNDENIABLE.

EVEN PRIDE IN THEM, HOWEVER, DOESN’T OUTWEIGH MY MISGIVINGS. THEY MAY ACCEPT THEIR FATE WITH STOIC COURAGE, BUT AFTER EVERYTHING THAT HAS HAPPENED, I DO NOT. MORE THAN ONE ELEMENT OF THE DEPLOYMENT STINKS. THE TIMETABLE (SIX MONTHS LESS RECOVERY/RETRAINING TIME THAN THE CHARLIE ONES). THE THEATERS OF DEPLOYMENT (DANGEROUS, HIGH RISK ZONES WHERE THEY HAVE JUST AS MUCH OF A CHANCE OF BEING GLASSED FROM ORBIT WITHOUT BEING ABLE TO FIGHT BACK AS THEY DO BEING ABLE TO DO DAMAGE TO THE ENEMY). THEIR LEADERSHIP (FOR NOW, ALL OF THEM ARE UNDER COMMAND OF RANKING NAVAL OFFICERS---NO DEDICATED SPECIAL FORCES COMMANDERS, JUST ADMIRALS AND GENERALS FIGHTING THE MAINLINE WAR). SOME OF IT’S LIKELY TO CHANGE; OTHER PARTS MAY NOT. ALL I KNOW IS THAT NONE OF IT BODES WELL. AND SO DESPITE RICH'S BACKERS' ATTEMPTS TO TRANSFER ME TO A NEW PROJECT, I’VE USED WHAT LITTLE CLOUT WITH ADMIRAL RICH THAT I HAVE LEFT AND ENSURED THAT I BE KEPT ON WITH THE PROGRAM, TO DO MY BEST TO DEAL WITH ANY PROBLEMS THAT CROP UP.

AUGUST 25TH, 2548

THE LAST OF THE SPARTANS LEFT TODAY, SHIPPED OUT FOR DEPLOYMENT. LEAVING ALONG WITH THEM IS LAZ; WE WERE LUCKY TO HAVE HIM ALL EIGHT YEARS, AND NOW THAT TRAINING IS COMPLETE, THEY’RE RE-PURPOSING HIM FOR OTHER DUTIES. HE THINKS HE’S GOING BACK TO THE FRONT-LINE, AND I WISHED HIM LUCK, IN CASE HE’S RIGHT. IT SEEMS A LITTLE ODD TO WAIT TO SHIP OUT THE LAST SQUAD UNTIL THIS LATE, BUT I GUESS THEY WANTED TO WAIT UNTIL THEY WERE NEEDED. KIND OF FUNNY, ACTUALLY, IN A PERVERSE SORT OF WAY; DIRTY ONI RUSHES TO GET THEM OUT INTO THE FIELD, CUTTING THEIR RECOVERY TIME IN HALF (OR MORE ACCURATELY, INTO A SEVENTH), AND THEY END UP WAITING AROUND ANYWAY.

THE GOODBYES HAVE GOTTEN EASIER, BEING SO FREQUENT, BUT I CAN’T SHAKE THE FEELING THAT SOMETHING IS MISSING. THE FACILITY FEELS EMPTY; THE CANDIDATES ARE GONE, AND THE SMALL ARMY OF DI’S AND TRAINERS ARE PACKING THEIR BAGS, PREPARING TO BE SHIPPED OUT TO THE FRONT OR TRANSFERRED TO OTHER PROJECTS. I HEAR A LOT OF THEM WILL BE GOING TO HELP WITH SIERRA-THREE (THEY'RE OF COURSE BEING INSTRUCTED TO REMAIN VERY TIGHT-LIPPED ABOUT THEIR PREVIOUS JOB). I WISH THEM LUCK WITH THAT. I WOULDN’T TOUCH THAT PROGRAM UNDER THREAT OF DEATH. THE DILEMMAS I FACED HERE WERE BAD ENOUGH; I DON’T KNOW IF I COULD TAKE TRAINING A WHOLE 300 SPARTANS TO USE AS SUICIDE SOLDIERS, EVEN IF IT'S SANCTIONED BY CLEAN ONI.

AND SPEAKING OF SUICIDAL, THE FIRST COMBAT REPORT CAME IN TODAY. TAN TEAM, OUR THIRD SQUAD TO DEPLOY, WERE THE FIRST TO SEE COMBAT. OPERATION: APOLLO; KNOWN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC (WELL, THE MILITARY PUBLIC) AS THE DEFENSE OF THE ATLAS MOONS. THE RANKING ADMIRAL PUT THEM IN CHARGE OF THE DEFENSE OF ONE OF THE PLANETARY GUNS, AND THOUGH THE GENERATOR FELL, THEY DID END UP PROVING THEIR MERIT. WHEN THE COVENANT FLEET ENDED UP---INEVITABLY---CREAMING THE UNSC FLEET, 338 & COMPANY VOLUNTEERED FOR A DANGEROUS RESCUE MISSION; HEADING STRAIGHT INTO ENEMY TERRITORY, THEY HELPED PULL AN ENTIRE COMBAT COMPANY OF MARINES OUT OF THE FIRE. IT WON’T SET OFF ANY MEDIA FIRESTORMS, BUT IT’S PROOF THAT THEY DEFINITELY HAVE WHAT IT TAKES.

ON ANOTHER NOTE, CONTACT WAS LOST WITH CYAN TEAM EARLY THIS MORNING. NO ONE HAS A CLUE WHAT’S HAPPENING. FOR NOW, ALL WE CAN DO IS WAIT FOR THEM TO REESTABLISH COMMS.

SEPTEMBER 22ND, 2548

IT’S NOT EXACTLY AN ORIGINAL PROCESS, BUT WHEN EXAMINING THE WORLD AROUND YOU, I FIND THAT SOMETIMES LACK OF INFORMATION CAN BE KNOWLEDGE UNTO ITSELF. CHECKING OVER THE CANDIDATE ROSTER TODAY TO EXAMINE THEIR NEW DEPLOYMENT SCHEDULE, I NOTICED A PAIR OF DISTURBING, ALARMING DISCREPANCIES, BOTH RELATED TO THE NUMBER OF CANDIDATES ACCOUNTED FOR IN OUR ROSTER. 343 FROM CYAN TEAM, HAS GONE MISSING. NOT MISSING IN ACTION: MISSING FROM MY REGISTER OF SPARTANS. LAST ORDERS REDACTED, STATUS REPORTS WIPED, WHEREABOUTS UNKNOWN. OFF THE GRID. SHE DISAPPEARED RIGHT AFTER THE PANEL OF PSYCHE JUDGES CLEARED HER FOR DUTY, AND I’VE HEARD NOTHING ABOUT HER SINCE. RICH IS SILENT ON THE MATTER---NEVER A GOOD SIGN.

I’VE LOOKED EVERYWHERE I COULD THINK OF, CHECKED EVERY CONNECTION I KNOW, AND HAVE FOUND NOTHING. COMPLICATING MATTER’S IS DIRTY ONI; AFTER ALL THE STUNTS I PULLED DURING RECRUITING, AND GIVEN MY DECISION TO STAY WITH THE PROGRAM, THEY DON’T TRUST ME AT ALL. THEY’RE WATCHING ME CLOSELY (I KNOW ENOUGH ABOUT COMPUTERS TO RECOGNIZE TERMINAL HACKS WHEN I SEE THEM) AND I HAVE NO IDEA WHO COULD BE BEHIND THEIR ABDUCTION---MEANING I HAVE TO WATCH MY BACK AND PLAY THINGS COOL UNTIL I KNOW WHATS GOING ON. WITH SPOOKS, IT’S ALWAYS FEINTS, TRICKS, AND DOUBLE DEALS; LOOK INTO THE WRONG AREA, AND YOU MIGHT WAKE UP TO A SECTION 0 ASSASSIN KNOCKING ON YOUR FRONT DOOR.

BESIDES THE ANXIETY OF THING THINGS I MENTIONED ABOVE, THE THOUGHT OF A POTENTIAL ABDUCTION IS WORRYING FOR A NUMBER OF OTHER REASONS. I’M WELL AWARE OF THE BLACK HOLE THE CHARLIE ONE ROSTER TURNED INTO ONCE THEY WERE DEPLOYED, AND I’VE HEARD RUMORS ABOUT THE MISSING OPERATORS THAT MAKE MY SKIN CRAWL. LASZLO HIMSELF IS ONE OF THOSE “MISSING OPERATORS”---UNKNOWN TO HALSEY OR ANY OF THE OTHER SPARTANS, AND THE THING’S HE’S TOLD ME HE’S HAD TO DO…WELL, THEY’RE NOT PRETTY. SO I’M GOING TO KEEP LOOKING (DIG DEEPER USING THOSE HANDY OLD CLEARANCE CODES THAT DIRTY ONI SEEMS TO HAVE FORGOTTEN THEY GAVE ME) AND LOOK FOR ANYTHING THAT COULD LEAD ME BACK TO THEM. HALSEY MAY HAVE BEEN OBLIVIOUS TO THE TRICKS THE OFFICE PULLED ON HER CONCERNING HER SPARTANS, BUT I CERTAINLY AM NOT GOING TO BE. THEY MAY HAVE TAKEN MY COMPANY FROM ME EIGHT YEARS AGO, BUT THESE KIDS ARE MY TROOPS NOW---AND I’VE GOT A DUTY TO THEM.

OCTOBER 3RD, 2548

2549
IF THERE’S ONE THING I’VE LEARNED IN THE COURSE OF THE LAST NINE YEARS, IT’S THAT UNDERSTANDING PEOPLE---KNOWING THEM, ANALYZING THEIR MOTIVES, BEING READY FOR THEIR NEXT MOVE---IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT OF FIGHTING. THERE ARE MANY METHODS OF GOING ABOUT THIS---LOGIC, INTUITION, WHATEVER---BUT THE ONE I THINK WORKS THE BEST, AND MOST CONSISTENTLY, IS TO JUST TRUST YOUR GUT. PEOPLE LIKE TO CREATE FALSE PERSONAS, ENJOY HIDING THEIR TRUE SELVES TO GET THE UPPER HAND. THEY THROW OUT CHAFF, FAUX DETAILS TO THROW YOU OFF, TO MAKE YOU THINK THEY’RE SOMETHING THEY’RE NOT. YOU HAVE TO LEARN TO LOOK PAST THE FLUFF, THE FLAK, AND SPOT THE TRUE PEOPLE.

MORE OFTEN THAN NOT, OUR FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF PEOPLE ARE MORE ACCURATE THAN WE THINK. AND CASE IN POINT IS CRIMSON TEAM---ROGER-341, JAMES-319, AND MICA-311. AS I’VE TALKED ABOUT, I’VE BEEN SUSPICIOUS OF THEM ALL ALONG---EVERYONE HAS. EVEN LAZ (WHO I NEED TO CHECK UP ON, BY THE WAY), WHO TOOK A SHINE TO THEM, ADMITTED THEY WERE A BUNCH OF UNDERHANDED AND MISCHIEVOUS BASTARDS; JUST AS LIKELY TO STEAL AND OBJECTIVE AND SELL IT AS THEY ARE TO BLOW IT UP. THEY DID LITTLE TO TRY AND DISPEL THAT IMAGE---THEY’VE ALWAYS FLAUNTED THEIR INDEPENDENCE---AND I NEVER, FOR A MOMENT, THOUGHT THEY TRUSTED ANYONE IN THE PROGRAM (EXCEPT FOR MAYBE LAZ). AS IT WORKS OUT, I WAS NOT ENTIRELY CORRECT. THERE'S NO DOUBT ABOUT THE FACT THAT THEY’RE DECEITFUL…BUT I GUESS THEY TRUSTED ME MORE THAN THEY LET ON.

EARLY TODAY, I RECEIVED A HEAVILY ENCRYPTED MESSAGE FROM THEM, ASKING FOR SOME VERY…TOUCHY ASSISTANCE. IN THEIR BLUNT COMMUNIQUE, THEY TOLD ME, FLAT OUT, THAT THEY’D STOLEN THREE SETS OF PROTOTYPE, HIGHLY CLASSIFIED MJOLNIR SUITS (EQUIPPED WITH SHIELDS!) AND MADE OFF WITH THEM---WHEN THEIR MISSION WAS TO DESTROY THEM OUT RIGHT. THEY DIDN’T EXPLAIN THEMSELVES, OR APOLOGIZE, OR DO ANY OF THE NORMAL THINGS PEOPLE DO WHEN THEY COMMIT A CRIME---THEY JUST ASKED ME FOR HELP IN COVERING IT UP. THEY WANT ME TO INTERCEPT THEIR AFTER ACTION REPORT BEFORE IT REACHES ONI (DIRTY AND CLEAN), EDIT IT, AND REMOVE ALL TRACES OF THEIR THEFT. ILLEGAL IN GOD KNOWS HOW MANY WAYS; IMMORAL AND DANGEROUS IN JUST AS MANY. ANY SANE PERSON WOULD REPORT THEM AND BE CLEAR OF THE WHOLE PROBLEM.

I’VE ALREADY SEIZED THE MESSAGE AND BEGUN THE REDACTION.

AUGUST 19TH, 2549

PARIS IV SEEMS TO BE ATTRACTING SPARTANS TO IT LIKE MOTHS TO A FLAME; AS OF RIGHT NOW, CRIMSON IS CURRENTLY ON DEPLOYMENT, AND A SIGNIFICANT CHUNK OF CLASS I SPARTANS ARE ALREADY ENGAGED THERE. I’D BE WILLING TO BET THERE'S MORE---MAYBE FROM THOSE SWG-3 TEAMS, MAYBE NOT---EVEN WITHOUT CONCRETE PROOF. AND TO TOP THINGS OFF, ANOTHER ONE OF OUR TEAMS IS THERE TOO---TURQUOISE. I’VE BEEN UNABLE TO SUPPORT THEM MUCH SO FAR (MY ATTENTION HAS BEEN MOSTLY FIXED ON REDACTING CRIMSON’S REPORTS FOR THE LAST FEW MONTHS, AND THE OTHERS TEAMS ARE BEING NEGLECTED BECAUSE OF IT) BUT I SEEM TO FINALLY BE GETTING MY CHANCE. AS THEIR DEPLOYMENT DRAGS OUT, I’M GETTING MORE AND MORE OPPORTUNITIES TO FINALLY DO THEM SOME GOOD.

LET ME GO BACK. TURQUOISE, OUT OF EVERYONE, HAS BEEN THERE THE LONGEST; THE BRASS HAVE BEEN DEPLOYING THEM ALL OVER THE FRONT FOR THE PAST FEW WEEKS, USING THEM TO HIT ALL SORTS OF COVENANT TARGETS IN THE SYSTEM. THINGS WENT VERY BADLY ON ONE OF THE MISSIONS, RESULTING IN ALL OF THEIR BACKUP (SEVERAL PLATOONS OF ODSTS) BEING WIPED OUT, AS WELL AS OLIVIA BEING KILLED. I HAVE NO TIME TO MOURN HER, BUT I KNOW IT’S A ROTTEN SHAME; ON THAT KIND OF MISSION, THEY SHOULD HAVE HAD TEN TIMES AS MUCH BACKUP; THEY NEVER SHOULD HAVE BEEN COMMITTED TO THAT AREA IF ONI COULDN’T SUPPORT THEM. HOPEFULLY THE OFFICE WILL LEARN FROM THAT MISTAKE.

AT ANY RATE, THEY’RE WORKING HARD ON THE SURFACE, AND DOING VERY WELL, BUT THINGS ARE STARTING TO FALL APART ON THE OTHER AREAS OF THE PLANET REGARDLESS. I FOUND OUT THE BRASS WASN’T GOING TO COMMIT ANY AIR ASSETS TO THEM, SO I’VE REQUISITIONED AS MANY AIR SUPPORT UNITS AS I CAN TO BE SENT TO THEIR LOCATION, IN CASE THINGS GO BADLY. THERE ARE ENOUGH REINFORCEMENTS TO EVACUATE THEM, IF NOTHING ELSE. IT’S A RISK FOR ME TO MEDDLE SO BLATANTLY IN NAVY AFFAIRS, BUT IT’S ALSO A GOOD IDEA TO HAVE A BACKUP PLAN. WITH ANY LUCK THEY WON’T NEED IT (IT WOULD TAKE A SCARAB TO EVEN PUT A DENT IN THEIR DEFENSIVE LINE) BUT JUST IN CASE, THEY’RE READY.

DECEMBER 26TH, 2549

2550
ONI IS UP TO THEIR USUAL BULLSHIT IT SEEMS…AND THIS TIME, ITS CLEAN ONI THAT WANTS TO ROPE OUR CLASS III KIDS IN TO DO THEIR DIRTY WORK FOR THEM. ONI, BOTH CLEAN AND DIRTY, HAS SENT THEM ON PLENTY OF STUPID AND POINTLESS MISSIONS BEFORE (14 HERCULIS, NEW AUSTRALIA, AND THE NEW TOKYO GAS MINES ALL SPRING TO MIND ON THE LIST OF SHAMEFUL, WASTEFUL MISSIONS) SO IT’S NO SURPRISE…BUT THAT DOESN’T MEAN I’M GOING TO BACK DOWN AND LOSE THEM WITHOUT A FIGHT. THEIR MOST MISSION IS A POTENTIAL OPERATION IN THE HEPHAISTOS ASTEROID BELT, TO DESTROY A POTENTIAL COVENANT FORWARD OPERATING BASE THE ALIENS ARE CARVING OUT OF AN ASTEROID THERE. IT’S A HIGH RISK INFILTRATION AND DEMOLITION OP, WITH MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR “SNAGS” THAN I CAN COUNT. ALSO KNOWN BY THE MORE COMMON NAME: A SUICIDE MISSION.

THE SPOOKS KNOW IT’S A SOUR OP, BUT THEY’RE “COMPENSATING” FOR THE PROBLEM BY PUTTING TWO TEAMS ON IT---ORANGE AND VIOLET. BY RATIONAL LOGIC, IT’S JUST ANOTHER BAD IDEA---THREE MORE OPERATORS WON’T SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVE THEIR CHANCES OF SUCCESS, AND JUST PUT MORE OF THEM IN POTENTIAL DANGER---BUT STUPIDITY HAS NEVER STOPPED ONI BEFORE. THEY'RE TREATING OUR KIDS LIKE S-IIIS---UNSURPRISING, SEEING AS THAT'S WHO THEY THINK THEY ARE---AND SENDING THEM ON THE KIND OF MISSION THEY DISPATCHED ALPHA AND BETA COMPANIES ON. ADMIRAL RICH IS IFFY ON THE MATTER, SO BREAKING ONI’S STONEWALL ISN’T OUT OF THE QUESTION…BUT THE PROBLEM IS THAT I’M RUNNING OUT OF TIME. THEY WANT TO DEPLOY THEM TOMORROW, AND I’M ALREADY LATE TO THE PUNCH; I JUST FOUND OUT ABOUT THE OPERATION THIS MORNING, THE PROWLER CARRYING THE TEAMS IS ALMOST ON STATION, AND LESS THAN A DAY IS NOT ENOUGH TIME TO GET RICH CONVINCED HE SHOULD CALL OFF AN OP.

THINGS ARE MOVING QUICKLY, SO I’VE SENT A COMMUNIQUE TO ONI REQUESTING---URGENTLY---THAT THEY DELAY THE OPERATION TO ALLOW FOR MORE FRIENDLY FORCES TO ARRIVE. I’M PRAYING THAT THEY LISTEN; THE BASE IS HIGH PRIORITY, BUT IT’S ALSO THREE WEEKS AWAY FROM TOTAL COMPLETION FOUR AWAY FROM FULL OPERATION (BY ONI’S OWN ESTIMATES). TO MAKE THE CASE FOR WAITING BETTER, THERE’S A FULL UNSC TASK FORCE DUE IN TO THE SYSTEM ON THE 30TH---BILLETED RIGHT NOW AS A MOP-UP/RECOVERY FORCE---THAT COULD JUST EASILY SERVE AS SUPPORT FOR THE ASSAULT. IT’S EVEN CARRYING IT’S OWN DEDICATED SPECIAL FORCES GROUP (IDENTITY UNKNOWN, BUT LIKELY A GROUP OF RICH’S CRACK COVERT OPS COMMANDOS). I’VE LISTED THIS ALL IN MY MESSAGE; NOW I CAN ONLY WAIT AND HOPE THAT ONI LISTENS.

APRIL 11TH, 2550

SOMETIMES THE DARK EVENTS IN OUR LIFE ARE COINCIDENTAL, RANDOM THINGS; UNFORTUNATE HAPPENINGS THAT COULD HAVE BEEN PREVENTED ONLY BY FATE. BUT SO OFTEN, THEY ARE THE RESULT OF THE MISTAKES, LAPSES OF JUDGEMENT, AND IGNORANCE THAT WE, AS IMPERFECT HUMANS, ARE SO PRONE TOO. WE CALL THE FIRST GROUP TRAGEDIES, BECAUSE THERE IS NOTHING ANYONE COULD HAVE DONE TO PREVENT THEM. BUT THE SECOND GROUP IS DIFFERENT; NOT MERE HAPPENSTANCE, IT IS PART OF A WORD WE TREAT WITH BOTH AWE AND DISRESPECT, HONOR AND INSOLENCE. THE SECOND GROUP IS CALLED FAILURE, AND IT IS SOMETHING WE SIMULTANEOUSLY EMBRACE AND FEAR; IN OUR CALLOUS USE OF IT, WE SEEK TO BELITTLE FAILURE, BUT IN THE END---ABOVE EVEN DEATH---IT IS WHAT MANY PEOPLE DREAD THE MOST.

I BY NO MEANS THINK I’M UNIQUE, BUT I ADMIT I HAVE AN INTERESTING RELATIONSHIP WITH FAILURE. AS A SOLDIER, I WAS TAUGHT THAT FAILURE, IN SOME FORM, IS INEVITABLE. WAR IS DIRTY, HARSH, UNPREDICTABLE; PEOPLE DIE, BATTLES ARE LOST, AND VICTORY CAN BE YANKED AWAY EVEN WHEN IT SEEMS CLOSE ENOUGH TO TOUCH. YET I WAS ALSO TRAINED TO LOOK FOR POSITIVES, TO SEEK THE BRIGHT SIDE IN THE SITUATION; FOR AN OFFICER, MAINTAINING MORALE CAN BE AS IMPORTANT AS ANY TACTICAL ABILITY OR COMBAT SKILLS. I’VE BEEN TAUGHT NOT TO ACCEPT FAILURE, TO LOOK DEFEAT IN THE EYE AND TELL IT TO PISS OFF. IN SPITE OF THIS, HOWEVER, AFTER TEN LONG YEARS WITH THIS PROJECT, TEN YEARS OF DEBILITATING FEAR, UNSHAKABLE GUILT, FLEETING SUCCESSES, AND DARK ISOLATION, I’VE GROWN MORE COMFORTABLE WITH FAILURE THAN EVER BEFORE---MORE COMFORTABLE THAN I’D EVER WANTED TO.

TODAY IS ANOTHER SUCH FAILURE, ONE THAT IS MULTIFACETED AND SCATHING. TWO HOURS AGO, A REPORT CAME IN FROM THE LOCAL NAVAL COMMANDER OF TWO OUR FIELD TEAMS---ORANGE AND VIOLET. I NEVER MANAGED TO GET THEM BACKUP, AND THEY PAID FOR THAT ERROR---MY ERROR---WITH THEIR LIVES. DURING THEIR MISSION, ALL THREE MEMBERS OF VIOLET TEAM, AS WELL AS TWO MEMBERS OF ORANGE, WERE KILLED ATTEMPTING TO ACCOMPLISH A SUICIDE MISSION THAT THE BRASS SENT THEM ON---AND THAT I FAILED TO PULL THEM AWAY FROM. KAITO-339, CECILIA-307, REGULUS-302, DRACO-304, KAMALA-354; ALL GONE. ONI WON’T GIVE ANY DETAILS, BESIDES THE FACT THAT THEY ARE ALL KIA. A SORT OF MERCY, IN IT’S OWN WAY, BUT AGONY IN SO MANY OTHERS.

AND AS IS NO DOUBT ALREADY CLEAR FROM THE REFERENCES TO FIVE CASUALTIES IN A SIX MAN OP, THERE IS MORE TO THINGS THAN JUST A SIMPLE DISASTER MISSION. BALDUIN-324 IS MISSING, BUT NOT IN ACTION: ONI HAS SPIRITED HIM AWAY, LIKE RACHEL-343 BEFORE HIM, TRANSFORMING HIS CSV INTO ANOTHER BLACK HOLE. I DIDN’T CATCH IT UNTIL NOW, AND IT IS ALREADY FAR TO LATE; IT SEEMS I HAVE FOUND ANOTHER WAY TO FAIL THEM.

APRIL 30TH, 2550

MY JOB, WHICH HAS NEVER HAD THE MOST CONCRETE DEFINITION, SEEMS TO BE FLIP FLOPPING ON A DAY TO DAY BASIS. SOMETIMES I’M SMOOTH TALKING RICH TO KEEP HIM FROM FREAKING OUT ABOUT TAN’S SUICIDAL ANTICS; AT OTHERS, I’M TRYING TO KEEP THE ADMIRALS IN CHECK AND MAKE SURE THEY DON’T WASTE OUR KIDS. AND NOW, THANKS TO CRIMSON, I ALSO SPEND A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF TIME INTERCEPTING AND REDACTING MESSAGES CONCERNING THEM---SOWING THE SEEDS OF DISCOURSE, COVERING UP ANY ILLEGAL ACTIONS THEY TAKE, AND GENERALLY ACTING LIKE A LUNATIC. YET EVEN THOUGH MY JOB CHANGES ON A DAY TO DAY BASIS, I STILL FIND SURPRISES SOMETIMES.

AS I WAS READING CRIMSON’S LAST DEPLOYMENT LOG---IF I’M REDACTING AND INTERCEPTING IT ANYWAY, I MIGHT AS WELL KNOW WHAT THEY’RE UP TOO---I NOTICED A REFERENCE TO ANOTHER GROUP OF SPARTANS IN THEIR REPORT. THE DETAILS WERE NATURALLY SPARSE (MICA-311 NEVER GIVE’S ONI ANY MORE INFORMATION THAN SHE HAS TOO), BUT THEY DIRECTLY REFERENCED A SIERRA GROUP I HADN’T HEARD OF YET---HERALD. I’LL BE ASKING THEM ABOUT THEM WHENEVER I GET THE CHANCE, BUT OFF THE GRID SIERRAS ARE ALWAYS INTERESTING TO ME---I’M STILL LOOKING FOR RACHEL-343 AFTER ALL---AND I’VE DECIDED TO DIG UP WHAT I CAN WHILE I WAIT.

WHILE I HAVEN’T HAD TIME TO DO ANY SERIOUS DIGGING YET, I HAVE LEARNED ONE BIT OF CRUCIAL INFORMATION ALREADY. IN THEIR REPORT, CRIMSON LEFT A COVERT MESSAGE THAT I’M SURE THEY INTENDED FOR ME. CRIMSON CALLED THEM, TO QUOTE THEM “NOT YOUR USUAL SWG-3 DIPSHITS”---MEANING, IF I’M CORRECT, NOT RELATED TO ANY OF THE SIERRA TEAM’S ME AND LAZ DISCOVERED THREE YEARS AGO. WHILE ME AND LASZLO NEVER SHARED OUR FINDING’S WITH ANY OF THE RECRUITS, IT’S ALMOST A SURE BET THAT CRIMSON WAS BEHIND THE DATA HACK IN 2548, AND THAT MEAN’S THEY KNOW PRETTY MUCH EVERYTHING ABOUT THE LOOSE SIERRA TEAMS THAT I DO. IF I’M RIGHT (AND I THINK I AM), THEN THAT OPENS UP ANOTHER HOST OF NEW QUESTIONS; IF BOTH SWG-3 AND SWG-4 HAVE LOOSE SPARTANS RUNNING AROUND, WHO IS TO SAY THAT THERE AREN’T EVEN MORE, WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED? IS THIS THE WORK OF RICH'S DIRTY ONI BACKERS, OR CLEAN ONI? MAYBE THERE'S NO SUCH THING AS "CLEAN" ONI; MAYBE THE ENTIRE OFFICE IS FILLED WITH SPOOKS BACKSTABBING EACH OTHER AND SIPHONING OFF SIERRAS. MAYBE OUR DIRTY ONI SIERRA PROGRAM ISN'T EVEN THE ONLY ONE OUT THERE.

MAY 25TH, 2550

TWO YEARS AGO TODAY, WE DEPLOYED OUR SQUADS INTO THE FIELD. GOLD FIRST, THEN SCARLET, THEN TAN…ON AND ON UNTIL EVERYONE WAS SERVING. 30 CANDIDATES; KIDS I’D KNOWN SINCE THEY WERE LITTLE, STILL PRACTICALLY CHILDREN, DEPLOYED TO THE FRONT LINE. IT’D BE NICE IF I COULD TELL MYSELF THAT WE DIDN’T KNOW HOW BAD THINGS WOULD BE, BUT THAT WOULD BE A LIE. WE KNEW DAMN WELL WHAT WAS GOING TO HAPPEN, WHAT KIND OF LOSSES THEY WOULD INCUR. AND IN FULL KNOWLEDGE OF THINGS, WE DID IT ANYWAY. TO SAY THAT I WAS FULLY PREPARED FOR THINGS, HOWEVER, WOULD BE AND EVEN GREATER LIE. NOTHING CAN TRULY PREPARE YOU FOR THIS. NOTHING AT ALL.

9 SPARTANS. THAT’S HOW MANY WE’VE LOST SO FAR. THE EQUIVALENT OF THREE COMPLETE TEAMS, MANY KILLED ON STUPID AND RISKY ASSIGNMENT. LUCY-329; KILLED WHEN THE BRASS DEPLOYED THEIR TEAM SOLO FOR A RECON JOB THAT COULD HAVE BEEN DONE JUST AS WELL WITH AERIAL ASSETS. GREGORY-314 & DOMINIC-334, KILLED ON A DAMN INSURRECTIONIST OPERATION HEADED BY "CLEAN" ONI. OLIVIA-361, MASSACRED BY A COMMANDO UNIT WHEN THE ADMIRALTY THOUGHT A SINGLE PLATOON OF ODSTS WAS ADEQUATE BACKUP FOR A HOSTILE BOARDING ACTION. AND FINALLY, REGULUS-302, DRACO-304, AND KAMALA-354, KAITO-339 AND CECILIA-307, WHOSE DEATHS ARE SHROUDED IN AS MUCH MYSTERY AS BALDUIN-324’S CURRENT ACTIONS.

IT’S A DAMN ROTTEN WASTE. WE KNEW WE’D TAKEN CASUALTIES---WITH THE INFERIOR AUGMENTS, SPI ARMOR, AND SHORTENED RECOVERY TRAINING, IT WAS ALWAYS A MATTER OF WHEN, RATHER THAN IF---AND I WAS PREPARED (OR, AS PREPARED AS YOU CAN EVER BE) FOR THE WORST. BUT I WAS NOT PREPARED FOR WATCHING THEM BE USED STUPIDLY---AS MUCH AS I EXPECTED THEM TOO---BECAUSE DEEP DOWN, I REALLY HOPED WE WERE BETTER THAN THAT. NOT US THE PROGRAM, US THE UNSC---THE BRASS, THE NAVY, THE MARINES, "CLEAN" ONI, DIRTY ONI, EVERYONE. AND SO IT HURTS EVEN WORSE THAN IF WE’D LOST THEM IN OTHER WAYS---BECAUSE IN ADDITION TO THE PAIN OF THE LOSS, SOMETHING ELSE IS GONE: FAITH. FAITH IN THE PEOPLE OUR KIDS ARE OUT THERE SERVING, FIGHTING FOR.

AUGUST 25TH, 2550

I CAUGHT THE FIRST HINT OF RACHEL’S WHEREABOUTS IN MONTHS TODAY, WHILE I WAS PERUSING THROUGH CLEAN ONI’S ARCHIVES. WITH ALL THE SQUADS DEPLOYED, AND CRIMSON STILL ON ASSIGNMENT, THERE’S PRECIOUS LITTLE FOR ME TO DO, AND ONE OF THE PERKS OF WORKING FOR A DIRTY PART OF THE AGENCY IS ACCESS TO A NUMBER OF PARTS FROM THE "CLEAN" ELEMENTS. I’VE GOTTEN USED TO HAVING TO PIECE THINGS TOGETHER FROM MINUTE CLUES AND OBSCURE DETAILS, BUT THIS ONCE HAS BEEN BLISSFULLY STRAIGHTFORWARD---FOR ONI, THAT IS. AND NOT ONLY WAS IT FAIRLY EASY TO FIND---EASY, IF RANDOM---BUT IT CONTAINS A FAIR AMOUNT OF ACTUAL, CONCRETE INFORMATION, ALLOWING FOR MORE CERTAINTY THAN MY USUAL EDUCATED GUESSWORK.

I THOUGHT THE TRAIL HAD GONE COLD, BUT I CAUGHT A VERY LUCKY BREAK. A FEW YEARS AGO, DURING OUR PRIVATE CORRESPONDENCE, ME AND LASZLO UNCOVERED RECORDS INDICATING THE EXISTENCE OF NUMEROUS “OFF THE GRID” SPARTAN TEAMS---TEAMS OF MIXED AND MATCHED RECRUITS, DRAWN FROM A VARIETY OF PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS, RE PURPOSED AS DISCREET AND EFFECTIVE ONI AND NAVSPECWAR INFILTRATION SQUADS. CHIEF ON THE LIST WAS A MULTIPURPOSE TEAM IDENTIFIED AS NOBLE, WHICH HAD AN EXTREMELY IMPRESSIVE CSV AND APPEARED TO BE UNDER THE DIRECTION OF URBAN HOLLAND. FOR SOME TIME, ME AND LAZ ENTERTAINED THE NOTION OF SIPHONING OFF A FEW RECRUITS INTO HIS TEAM (GET THEM INTO REAL SPECIAL OPS GROUPS, WITH FULL ARMOR SYSTEMS) BUT WE ULTIMATELY HAD TO SCRATCH THE IDEA WHEN WE FAILED TO ESTABLISH SOLID COMMUNICATION TIES (AND WHEN RICH DECIDED HE WOULD LET THE MAINLINE BRASS PLAY DEPLOY OUR SQUADS AS PRETEND S-III'S, RATHER THAN DEDICATED NAVSPECWAR UNITS).

RECENTLY THOUGH, I HAD MY INTEREST PIQUED WHEN I SPOTTED AN OBSCURE REFERENCE TO NOBLE IN ONE OF RICH’S COMMUNIQUES (WHICH I MAY OR MAY NOT HAVE BEEN SUPPOSED TO SEE). NOT MUCH, JUST A FOOTNOTE ON A LONG, BORING ACTION REPORT. I DECIDED TO LOOK INTO IT, AND USING A FEW OF THE TRICKS I PICKED UP FROM LAZ, MANAGED TO CRACK A FEW SELECT PORTIONS OF THEIR SECURITY. ANYWAY, I WAS SCROLLING THROUGH THEIR DEPLOYMENT RECORD (DID I MENTION IT WAS IMPRESSIVE?) AND SPOTTED SOMETHING OF DIRECT INTEREST TO ME. AS IT TURNS OUT, DURING A CERTAIN OPERATION: SWEEPING STRIKE, A PREVIOUSLY UNHEARD OF SPECIAL FORCES OPERATOR BY THE NAME OF RACHEL HAWKE WAS USED AS THOM-293’S TEMPORARY REPLACEMENT. BESIDES THE NAME SIMILARITIES, THE ATTACHED AFTER ACTION REPORT INDICATED THAT THIS RACHEL OPERATED IN A MANNER ALMOST EXACTLY IDENTICAL TO OUR RACHEL-343...AND THAT’S ONE COINCIDENCE TOO MANY.

NOBLE’S RECORDS INDICATE SHE WAS TRANSFERRED OUT MONTHS AGO, BUT IT’S THE BEST LEAD I’VE HAD IN YEARS. IT GIVE’S ME A SPRINGBOARD, AT ANY RATE. NOW IF I COULD ONLY FIND OUT WHAT HAPPENED TO BALDUIN.

NOVEMBER 9TH, 2550

2551
TODAY TAN TEAM RETURNED FROM THE OPERATION: PHILOSOPHER CAMPAIGN, MARKING THEIR FIRST TIME RETURNING TO EPSILON ERIDANUS IN OVER TEN MONTHS. THEY DID WELL; THEY KEPT THE COVENANT AT BAY ON ARISTOTLE II, USING SOME “FREE” NUKES TO GOOD EFFECT (THEIR ACTIONS RESULTED IN 90% EVACUATION RATES, INSTEAD OF A PROJECTED 65%), TRICKED THE ENEMY FLEET AWAY FROM THE PLANET, AND FINALLY PIONEERED A STRATEGY THAT KEPT THE COVENANT TIED UP EVEN LONGER ON ARISTOTLE I.  I WAS HOPING TO GET A CHANCE TO SEE THEM WHEN THEY CAME IN; FROM WHAT I’VE HEARD, CONNOR AND MELLISA AREN’T TAKING LUCY’S DEATH LAST YEAR TOO WELL. IT’S NOT OFTEN THAT A SQUAD GETS SHUTTLED THROUGH, AND I HAVE AN ODDLY ANXIOUS FEELING TO SEE THEM AGAIN AT LEAST ONE MORE TIME.

BEFORE I HAD A CHANCE, HOWEVER, THEY WENT OF THE GRID AND DISAPPEARED. I CHECKED ON THEM AS COVERTLY AS I COULD, WITH MEMORIES OF RACHEL AND BALDUIN’S DISAPPEARANCE SWIRLING AROUND IN MY HEAD. THANKFULLY, I MANAGED TO CATCH A TRACE OF THEIR WHEREABOUTS: THEY MADE AN APPOINTMENT WITH NONE OTHER THAN ADMIRAL HOOD, GOING OVER RICH’S HEAD (AND DIRTY ONI'S, THOUGH THEY DIDN'T REALIZE IT) AND REPORTING STRAIGHT TO THE HIGH ADMIRAL. I JUST FOUND AT THE REASON FOR THEIR LITTLE “SURPRISE VISIT”, AND THINGS MAKE A LOT MORE SENSE NOW.

AS IT TURNS OUT, TAN TEAM HAVE BEEN BUSY LITTLE SPARTANS. A FEW MINUTES AFTER THEIR MEETING WITH HOOD GOT OUT, I RECEIVED A PERSONAL CALL FROM HIM---ROUTED DIRECTLY TO ME, INTENDED DIRECTLY FOR ME. TURNS OUT, THE THREE OF THEM CAME UP WITH AN IDEA FOR AN OFFENSIVE BEHIND COVENANT LINES; A SPECIAL FORCES VENTURE DESIGNED TO DISRUPT THE ENEMY. HOOD WANTED TO MY OPINION ON THEIR ABILITIES; HE WANTED TO MAKE SURE HE WASN’T GETTING HIMSELF INTO SOMETHING DUMB. OUT OF ALL THE ARES SQUADS, TAN HAVE BUILT THEIR REPUTATION THE BEST---DIVING COVENANT DESTROYERS INTO ENEMY FLEETS, DEVISING CRUISER KILLING PLANS, AND TAKING OUT ENTIRE REBEL BASES DOES THAT---BUT IT’S STILL ALL WORD OF MOUTH. HOOD, LIKE EVERYONE ELSE, ASSUMED THEM TO BE SIERRA-III'S FROM THE "ARES DETACHMENT"---THAT CURIOUS MIX OF TRUTH AND LIES THAT WORKS SO WELL. HE MANAGED TO FIND OUT I WAS THEIR FORMER TRAINING COORDINATOR (DON’T ASK ME HOW) AND WANTED DIRECT CONFIRMATION THAT THEY REALLY WERE ALL THAT THEY’D BEEN MADE OUT TO BE.

YOU CAN PROBABLY GUESS WHAT MY ANSWER WAS.

JANUARY 13TH, 2551

WE ALWAYS REALIZED THAT HIDING OUR SPARTAN TEAMS FROM THE BRASS WOULD BE NEXT TO IMPOSSIBLE---PEOPLE NOTICE SIERRAS, ESPECIALLY ONES AS INDEPENDENT AND UNPREDICTABLE AS OURS---WHICH IS WHY, I SEE NOW, DIRTY ONI CONCOCTED THE COVER STORY THAT THEY DID. ASIDE FROM THE REDACTION OF CRIMSON’S COMBAT REPORTS, MUCH OF OUR WORK IS NOW RELATIVELY OPEN (IN THE SENSE THAT THE HIGHER UPS KNOW ABOUT THE WORK ITSELF, NOT THE ORIGINS OF OUR TEAMS). IF IT ISN’T TAN DRIVING A COVENANT SHIP STRAIGHT INTO AN ENEMY FLEET, OR DIRECTLY APPROACHING LORD HOOD, THEN IT’S TURQUOISE, BLOWING UP A COVENANT SCARAB RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF A CIVILIAN CITY, RIGHT UNDER THE EYE OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE. STILL, EVEN GIVEN ALL THAT’S HAPPENED, IT’S STILL SURPRISING TO HEAR ABOUT OUR TEAMS IN THE FIELD FROM AN OUTSIDE SOURCE.

TURNS OUT SILVER TEAM, WHO’VE BEEN PLAYING THINGS PRETTY QUIETLY UP UNTIL NOW, MANAGED TO SNAG SOME OF THE SPOTLIGHT FOR THEMSELVES (ALBEIT BY ACCIDENT) AND DRAW SOME ATTENTION. AFTER THE FLAGSHIP OF THE FLEET THEY WERE GUARDING WAS BOARDED, THEY ACTED AS PART OF A GROUP OF REINFORCEMENTS, LANDING ABOARD IT DURING A FIERCE BATTLE AND HELPING TO RETAKE THE SHIP. WHILE THEY WERE AT IT, THEY CAME INTO DIRECT CONTACT WITH SEVERAL VERY HIGH RANKING MEMBERS OF THE ADMIRALTY---AND BY “DIRECT CONTACT”, I MEAN, THEY SAVED THEIR ASSES FROM GETTING BLOWN TO HELL. THE BRASS WEREN’T EXACTLY THRILLED TO FIND OUT THEY’D HAD A SPARTAN IN THEIR FLEET AND NOT KNOWN ABOUT IT (ONI WAS JUST USING THE FLEET AS A STAGING GROUND FOR THEIR OWN MISSIONS INVOLVING SILVER) BUT THEY WERE VERY IMPRESSED BY SILVER’S ABILITIES.

I HAVEN’T HAD MUCH FOCUS TO SPARE ON THE OTHER SQUADS, BECAUSE I’VE BEEN TOO BUSY DEALING WITH TAN’S NEW OPERATION AND THE EVER PRESENT NEED TO REDACT ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING INVOLVING CRIMSON, AND I’M REGRETTING IT. SILVER WAS NEVER OUR STRONGEST TEAM, DESPITE SOME REALLY GOOD MEMBERS---RICKY AND TUCK ARE BOTH EXCELLENT---BUT THEY’VE REALLY COME INTO THEIR OWN OVER THE PAST FEW MONTHS. THEIR PERFORMING EXTREMELY WELL, AND SEEM TO BE SHAKING OFF THE POST AUGMENTATION JITTERS FINALLY. JUST RECENTLY THEY COMPLETED AN OPERATION ON TAIDAN, RECOVERING OLD UNSC EQUIPMENT, AND MANAGED TO BLOW UP A FEW COVENANT CRUISERS ALONG THEIR WAY---WITHOUT BACKUP OF ANY KIND. DURING TRAINING, ME AND LASZLO ALWAYS WORRIED SO MUCH ABOUT RICKY; HE WAS VULNERABLE, EVEN WEAK MINDED. IT’S GOOD TO SEE HIM DOING SO WELL.

FEBRUARY 9TH, 2551

TODAY I TOOK A BREAK FROM MY BUSY SCHEDULE OF REDACTING CRIMSON’S EVER MORE FLASHY COMBAT REPORTS AND COVERTLY MARSHALING SUPPORT FOR TAN’S OPERATION: OFFENSIVE MEASURES IDEA TO CHECK UP ON AN OLD FRIEND. GIVEN THAT I DON’T HAVE MANY OF THOSE, AND TAKING MY CIRCUMSTANCES INTO ACCOUNT, YOU SHOULD BE UNSURPRISED TO KNOW THAT IT WAS LASZLO (WHY AM I TALKING IN SECOND PERSON? I’M WRITING A JOURNAL!). I’VE HEARD PRECIOUS LITTLE OF HIS ACTIONS SINCE HE LEFT THE PROGRAM IN 2548, BUT I GOT A RARE BREAK AND MANAGED TO PICK UP WORD THAT HE’S GEARING UP TO HEAD OUT FOR NEW JERUSALEM. THANKFULLY, THAT LITTLE NUGGET OF INFORMATION WAS JUST ENOUGH TO GET ME A COMM CODE, AND I MANAGED TO GET A FULLY ENCRYPTED MESSAGE OFF, IN SPITE OF ALL OF ONI (DIRTY AND "CLEAN" BOTH)'S SECURITY MEASURES.

IT WAS NOTHING MUCH, JUST IDLE SMALL TALK. I’LL HAVE TO TEST THE WATER’S, JUST TO MAKE SURE HE’S FREE TO ANSWER. A FEW BITS OF COMPLAINING ABOUT RICH’S HEAVY-HANDED MANAGEMENT, AND LOTS OF STATUS REPORTS ON THE ARES TEAMS---ALONG WITH AFTER ACTION REPORTS ON THE CASUALTIES. I THOUGHT ABOUT SLIPPING IN SOME REFERENCES TO RACHEL, BUT THOUGHT BETTER OF IT. YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT’S GOING TO SET ONI OFF, AND THAT’S A PRETTY SENSITIVE TOPIC. NO NEED TO FLIRT WITH DANGER.

IT REMAINS TO BE SEEN IF THE SPOOKS WILL LET HIM ANSWER, AND EVEN THEN, I DON’T KNOW IF HE’LL HAVE TIME BEFORE HE’S DEPLOYED. MY CONTACT’S TIP OFF DIDN’T INCLUDE A VERY SPECIFIC TIMETABLE, SO IT’S ALL GUESSWORK. FOR ALL I KNOW, HE COULD HAVE ALREADY LEFT; ON THE FLIP SIDE, HE COULD BE IN PORT FOR ANOTHER MONTH (THOUGH IF THAT’S THE CASE, I’D BET MONEY ON THEM PUTTING HIM INTO CRYO TO PASS THE TIME---THEY DO IT OFTEN ENOUGH TO OUR CLASS III TEAMS). REGARDLESS OF WHETHER HE MANAGES TO GET A RESPONSE OFF, IT’S STILL NICE TO KNOW THAT SOME OF THE PEOPLE FROM THE PROJECT ARE STILL OUT THERE. I HAVEN’T SEEN ANYONE FROM THE PROGRAM, IN PERSON, SINCE THE LAST SQUAD LEFT. IT’S NICE TO KNOW I STILL HAVE SOME FRIENDS LEFT.

MARCH 15TH, 2551

LASZLO REPLIED TO MY MESSAGE TODAY; YOU CAN’T IMAGINE HOW SURPRISED I WAS WHEN, MIDWAY THROUGH REDACTING CRIMSON’S LATEST BATTLE REPORT, THE ALERT POPPED UP. I’D FIGURED IT WOULD TAKE MONTHS, IF HE ANSWERED AT ALL. IT WAS BRIEF, AND I’M SURE ONI WAS STARING OVER HIS SHOULDER AS HE WROTE IT, BUT IT WAS GOOD TO HEAR FROM HIM. DIDN’T INCLUDE ANYTHING ABOUT HIS WHEREABOUTS OR LOCATION, BUT THEN I HARDLY EXPECTED IT TOO. MOSTLY JUST INQUIRING AS TO HOW I’D GOTTEN A HOLD OF HIM (I MAY CONVENIENTLY SKIP OVER THAT), HOW I’VE BEEN, AND OF COURSE, HOW OUR SPARTANS ARE DOING.

I DON’T LIKE TO BE THE BEARER OF BAD NEWS, SO INFORMING HIM OF THE CASUALTY LIST WAS DIFFICULT, TO SAY THE LEAST. I ATTACHED FIELD REPORTS ON ALL THE CANDIDATES, ALONG WITH THEIR EVER GROWING CSV’S---MIGHT AS WELL INCLUDE THE GOOD NEWS ALONGSIDE THE BAD. I DON’T KNOW HOW HE’LL REACT, THOUGH I KNOW I WOULDN’T WANT TO BE HIM; HEARING ABOUT THE DEATHS OF SO MANY CLOSE PEOPLE OUT OF THE BLUE IS A MILLION TIMES WORSE THAN READING ABOUT THEM IN A FIELD REPORT, WHEN YOU ALREADY KNEW THE RISKS AND HAD A CHANCE TO SAY GOODBYE.

WHEN HE’LL GET IT IS ANYONE’S GUESS, BECAUSE HIS DEPLOYMENT SCHEDULE IS A BLACK HOLE, BUT AT LEAST IT’S OUT NOW. I HAVE NO IDEA HOW MUCH ONI’S CENSORS WILL LET THROUGH, BECAUSE EVEN THOUGH NOTHING IN THERE IS CLASSIFIED (OR CLASSIFIED BEYOND WHERE HE’D KNOW IT) THEY’RE GROWING MORE PARANOID BY THE DAY. I WOULDN’T BE SURPRISED IF THEY CUT OUT THE WHOLE MESSAGE AND JUST INCLUDED THE HEADER. HOPEFULLY THEY’LL DO US ALL SOME FAVOR’S AND ACT INTELLIGENTLY FOR ONCE. IT’D BE A NICE CHANGE OF PACE.

MARCH 24TH, 2551

NO OFFICIAL WORD ON THE OUTCOME OF OFFENSIVE MEASURES III YET, THOUGH I’VE HEARD WHISPERS OF A SUCCESS (ALBEIT A COSTLY ONE); ALL THE SANCTIONED CHANNELS ARE SAYING IS THAT THE OPERATION HAS DEFINITELY BEGUN. HOWEVER, I HAVE OTHER, MUCH MORE IMPORTANT NEWS. FINALLY, AFTER TWO YEARS, IT APPEARS AS IF OUR LITTLE GAME IS UP. ADMIRAL RICH KNOWS ABOUT CRIMSON’S “LIBERATION” OF THE MJOLNIR PROTOTYPES ON ALGOLIS, AND IS NONE TOO PLEASED.

THE LEAK, IRONICALLY ENOUGH, COMES FROM ANOTHER CHARLIE THREE TEAM, SCARLET. CRIMSON AND SCARLET ENDED UP PULLING A JOINT OP ON SARGASSO---AN UNINTENTIONAL ONE, I MIGHT ADD---AND SCARLET ENDED UP COMPLAINING TO RICH ABOUT CRIMSON GETTING FULL SPEC ARMOR WHEN THEY DIDN’T. I TRIED MY BEST TO REDACT IT, BUT IT’S HARD TO HIDE A DIRECT INQUIRY LIKE THAT. NEEDLESS TO SAY, RICH IS PISSED THAT THEY STOLE IT AND EVEN MORE PISSED THAT I’VE HIDDEN IT FROM HIM FOR SO LONG. I’M UNDER NO FALSE PRETENSES ABOUT HIS ABILITIES, HOWEVER, AND I’VE MADE EMERGENCY PREPARATIONS IN CASE HE GET’S ULTERIOR IDEAS.

WITH ANY LUCK, HOWEVER, I WON’T NEED THEM. I’VE ALREADY MESSAGED HIM, AND WHILE I HASTEN TO CALL IT BLACKMAIL…IT DEFINITELY IS A THREAT. EFFECTIVELY, I POINTED OUT THAT IF HE WERE TO COME AFTER ME---SEND A HIT SQUAD, KNOCK ME FROM THE PROGRAM, TRANSFER ME TO THE FIELD, WHATEVER---HE’D BE INVITING SOME VERY UGLY CONSEQUENCES. FOR ONE, I POINTED OUT CRIMSON HAS BECOME RATHER ATTACHED TO ME (WHICH, ODDLY ENOUGH, IS PROBABLY TRUE), AND ARE NATURALLY INQUISITIVE---MEANING THAT IF SOMETHING WERE TO HAPPEN TO ME, THEY WOULD UNDOUBTEDLY HEAR ABOUT IT AND RESPOND IN KIND. TO HELP CEMENT MY POSITION (IN CASE THE THREAT OF THREE ANGRY, INSUBORDINATE, FULLY ARMORED SPARTANS WASN’T ENOUGH), I REFERENCED THE EXISTENCE OF A DEAD DROP LETTER, PROGRAMMED TO BE SENT IN THE EVENT OF MY DEATH OF ADMIRAL HOOD (WHOSE BECOME AN UNLIKELY ALLY THANKS TO TAN)…WHICH MAY OR MAY NOT EXIST.

LASZLO WOULD BE PROUD. TURNS OUT THAT WHEN I BUILD UP ENOUGH DISLIKE FOR SOMEONE OVER ENOUGH TIME, I CAN HOLD MY OWN AT THIS POLITICS STUFF TOO.

JULY 5TH, 2551

2552
OVER THE PAST THREE YEARS OF DEPLOYMENT, WE’VE HAD OUR FAILURES AND SUCCESSES. VICTORIES, DEFEATS, EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN. WE’VE LOST COMRADES, BUT THEIR SACRIFICES HAVE NEVER BEEN IN VAIN. THE DEATHS HAVE ALWAYS MEANT SOMETHING, ALWAYS MATTERED, ALWAYS WORKED TO HELP FURTHER SOME GREATER CAUSE, SOME LARGER GOAL. SO WHILE WE’VE LOST SPARTANS---ENTIRE TEAMS, SOMETIMES---WE’VE ALWAYS HAD THAT SLIGHT REASSURANCE THAT THEY DIED FOR A REASON. THIS SMALL COMFORT, HOWEVER, HAS NOW LEFT US AS WELL.

EARLY THIS AFTERNOON I RECEIVED A HEAVILY ENCRYPTED CONTACT REPORT---WELL PAST THE POINT OF PARANOIA---FROM RICH HIMSELF. FOR MY EYES ONLY, SECRET ABOVE EVEN THE OTHER MEMBERS OF THE PROJECT STAFF. IT CONTAINED A RECORD OF THE FINAL MOMENTS OF NO LESS THAN SIX OR OUR CLASS THREE OPERATORS---ALL OF WHOM, AS OF THIS MOMENT, ARE DEAD. NOT LONE MEMBERS FROM MIXED UNITS---TWO COMPLETE SQUADS. RICHARD, LUCIUS, TUCK, MICHAEL, JENNIFER, AND ARNOLD---ALL GONE. BUT WORSE THAN THE LOSS, HOWEVER, IS THE MANNER IN WHICH IT TOOK PLACE. ACCORDING TO THE REPORT, TUCK AND LUCIUS WERE KILLED ON MARCH 8TH (FOR WHICH I RECEIVED NO NOTICE), AND RICHARD SUBSEQUENTLY WENT, TO PUT THINGS SIMPLY, CRAZY. ATTACKED A FULL UNSC FIRE BASE, DETONATING ONE OF THE ON BASE NUCLEAR REACTORS AND KILLING OVER 400 PERSONNEL. IN THE AFTERMATH, HE FLED THE PLANET, APPARENTLY GOING INTO HIDING.

RICH APPARENTLY WANTED AN “IN HOUSE” SOLUTION FROM WITHIN DIRTY ONI, AND, WITHOUT INFORMING ME, CALLED GOLD AND SCARLET AWAY FROM THE FRONT TO TRACK HIM DOWN. PITTING BROTHER AGAINST BROTHER…SHAMEFUL, EVEN FOR HIM. THEY FOUND HIM SHORTLY THEREAFTER, AND WERE SENT IN TO CAPTURE HIM FOR “TRIAL”. RICHARD REALLY HAD LOST HIS MIND, HOWEVER, AND CAUGHT SCARLET IN AN AMBUSH---KILLING EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM. GOLD ARRIVED A SHORT TIME LATER AND HAD BETTER LUCK, CATCHING AND WOUNDING HIM---BUT THEN, ACCORDING TO THE REPORT, AND “UNKNOWN AGENT” ENTERED THE FRAY AND PUT A SNIPER ROUND STRAIGHT THROUGH RICHARD’S VISOR. GOLD PURSUED, TO NO AVAIL.

WE KNEW WE WERE INVITING TROUBLE BY FIELDING SOMEONE AS UNSTABLE AS RICKY…BUT NEVER IN MY DARKEST NIGHTMARE DID I IMAGINE SOMETHING LIKE THIS.

APRIL 7TH, 2552

AN INQUIRY TO RICH HAS YIELDED NOTHING ON THE IDENTITY OF RICHARD’S KILLER (NOT THAT I EXPECTED IT TOO---I LEARNED THAT LESSON TWELVE YEARS AGO), AND THAT MEANS THAT ONCE AGAIN, I’M ON MY OWN. I’VE ALREADY BEGUN MY INVESTIGATION---DISCREETLY, I MIGHT ADD---AND HAVE BEEN LOOKING INTO EVER RELEVANT PROJECT I CAN THINK OF (GOSSAMER, INDIGO, BLACK, S-III, AND OF COURSE, ANYTHING WITH SECTION 0’S STAMP OF APPROVAL ON IT) LOOKING FOR SOMETHING OF VALUE. I’VE GOT LITTLE YET, BUT I’M WORKING MY LEADS TO TRY AND FIND WHATEVER TRACE I CAN. WHATEVER HE DID, RICHARD WAS STILL A SPARTAN---AND HIS DEATH IS NOT GOING TO BECOME ANOTHER BLACK HOLE IN ONI’S PROJECT REPORTS.

OBVIOUSLY, I’M INVESTIGATING THE CONCRETE, DEFINITIVELY KNOWN DETAILS FIRST. I CONTACTED GOLD, OFF THE GRID, AND SENT A REQUEST FOR A FULL DETAIL MISSION REPORT---NOT THE BUTCHERED ONE RICH HAD THEM SEND TO ONI, THE REAL DETAILS OF THE MISSION. THEY RESPONDED WITHIN A DAY; THEY’RE JUST AS SUSPICIOUS ABOUT THE EVENT AS I AM AND SEEM TO HAVE BECOME PARANOID OVERNIGHT. THERE’S PLENTY OF INFORMATION IN IT TO START ME OFF; BULLET CALIBER (A 14.5MM, FIRED FROM A UNSC STANDARD ISSUE SNIPER RIFLE; INTERPRETABLE IN A NUMBER OF WAYS), DESCRIPTION OF THE ASSASSIN (CLOAKING TECHNOLOGY; FAR MORE USEFUL, BECAUSE ONLY UPPER ECHELON ONI WOULD HAVE ACCESS TO THAT KIND OF HARDWARE), AND MOST NOTABLY, OPERATOR SKILL---REMAINING NOT ONLY COMPLETELY UNDETECTED THROUGHOUT THE FIREFIGHT, BUT ALSO BEING ABLE TO SLIP AWAY FROM THREE FULLY ALERT SPARTANS.

A LOT OF THIS IS CONTRADICTORY, AND THAT’S A MAJOR PART OF THE PROBLEM. THE CAMO TECH POINTS, OBVIOUSLY, TO SPARTAN-III OR ONE OF IT’S SUBSIDIARIES; BUT AS MUCH AS I WANT TO STAY CAUTIOUS AND NOT GET COCKY, OUR TEAM’S ARE BETTER TRAINED THAN THE IIIS---THEY’D CATCH A THREE TRYING TO GET AWAY. THEREFORE, I’M LEFT WITHOUT ANY LIKELY PERPETRATORS---NOT A GOOD POSITION TO BE IN WHEN TRYING TO CONDUCT AN INVESTIGATION. EVEN IF ONI STONEWALLS ME COMPLETELY, HOWEVER, I’M NOT GOING TO GIVE UP. EVEN IF IT TAKES YEARS, I’M GOING TO FIND OUT WHO DID THIS, AND I’M GOING TO HAVE THEM FILLETED. RICHARD IS DEAD BECAUSE SOME ONI ASSASSIN PUT A BULLET IN HIS BRAIN---AFTER GOLD HAD ALREADY APPREHENDED HIM. THAT WILL NOT GO UNPUNISHED.

APRIL 12TH, 2552

AS IF THINGS NEEDED MORE FUEL THROWN ON THE FIRE, TODAY CONNOR ARRIVED IN SYSTEM. MELLISA WAS KILLED LESS THAN TWO WEEKS AGO, DURING THE BATTLE OF NEW DAMASCUS; CONNOR NARROWLY ESCAPED WITH HIS OWN LIFE. I HADN’T HEARD ABOUT THE LOSS UNTIL TODAY, AND IT WAS FAR TO LATE BY THEN. I ALWAYS KNEW CONNOR WAS TOO CLOSE TO HIS TEAMMATES, AND HIS ACTIONS TODAY WERE A PRIME EXAMPLE OF THIS. WHEN HE ARRIVED ON REACH AND WAS TAKEN OUT OF CRYO, MELLISSA’S DEATH HIT HIM HARD. HE SNAPPED AT HIS COMMANDER DURING HIS DEBRIEFING, GETTING ANGRY ENOUGH THAT THEY HAD TO CALL IN ODSTS TO RESTRAIN HIM (NOT THAT THEY HAD MUCH SUCCESS---SOMEONE LIKE CONNOR VERSUS UNAUGMENTED HUMANS IS HARDLY A FAIR FIGHT).

GIVEN THE EVENTS OF THE PAST FEW MONTHS, DIRTY ONI IS UNDERSTANDABLY WARY OF ANY POTENTIALLY UNSTABLE SPARTANS WHO MIGHT DRAW THE WRONG KIND OF ATTENTION FROM THE REST OF THE OFFICE, AND RICH IS ALREADY CALLING FOR A BOARD OF REVIEW ON HIS CONDUCT. HE’S NOT LIKELY TO HAVE A STRONG CASE, EITHER; I REVIEWED THE LOGS, AND HE IS VERY, VERY UPSET; A QUICK NEURAL SCAN INDICATED A LIKELY ONSET OF DEPRESSION, WHICH OF COURSE, DOESN’T BODE WELL. BEST CASE SCENARIO IS BEING PUT IN A DESK JOB, OR ON A PROWLER ON A REMOTE PATROL ROUTE; AT WORST, HE COULD BE THROWN IN JAIL FOR ASSAULTING AN OFFICER. THEY’RE NOT LIKELY TO GIVE HIM THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT, EITHER; THE MEMORY OF RICHARD’S SNAP IS TOO FRESH IN THEIR MINDS.

I’VE HEARD THAT HE’S BEEN REVIEWED WITHOUT HIS KNOWLEDGE, AND DIRTY ONI IS KEEP HIM UNDER TIGHT WRAPS. THEY’RE NOT LETTING ME SEE HIM, OR EVEN TALK TO HIM; THEY’RE PROBABLY AFRAID I WOULD GIVE AWAY THEIR INVESTIGATION (THEY WOULDN’T BE FAR FROM THE TRUTH, EITHER). THEY’RE ALSO HIDING HIM AMAZINGLY WELL; I ONLY KNOW WHERE HE IS BECAUSE OF A FEW CHATTY MEMBERS OF HIS CONTAINMENT TEAM, AND THE BRASS HAS ABSOLUTELY NO CLUE WHAT’S GOING ON (HIS LOCAL COMMANDER, ADMIRAL ULRICH VIEZCHER, IS BEING VERY PUBLIC ABOUT HIS ATTEMPTS TO GET HIM BACK, AND I GOT A CALL FROM ADMIRAL HOOD’S AIDE TELLING ME THAT THE ADMIRAL HIMSELF WANTS TO KNOW WHERE HE IS). WHETHER OR NOT PARANGOSKY AND HER "CLEAN" ONI KNOWS IS SOMETHING I HAVE NO WAY OF KNOWING. I CAN’T BEGIN TO IMAGINE HOW HE FEELS; HIS FAMILY GONE, HIS CONFIDENCE BROKEN, AND HIS SUPERIORS SUSPICIOUS. LORD KNOWS HE’S GOING TO HAVE A ROUGH COUPLE OF MONTHS, AND WORST OF ALL, I’M AFRAID THAT THERE'S LITTLE I CAN DO TO HELP HIM.

APRIL 30TH, 2552

WITH ALL THE CASUALTIES WE’VE INCURRED OF LATE (OUT OF 30 CANDIDATES FIELDED, WE HAVE LOST ALMOST HALF), EVEN ONI IS TAKING NOTICE. HOWEVER STUPID THEY ACT MOST OF THE TIME, THEY DO HAVE OCCASIONAL MOMENTS OF INTELLIGENCE, AND I GOT AN ORDER TODAY THAT I SWEAR IS THE FIRST ONE I’VE BEEN HAPPY TO FOLLOW SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE PROGRAM. RICH IS REQUESTING ME TO LOOK INTO WAYS OF IMPROVING THE SURVIVABILITY OF OUR SPARTANS IN THE FIELD---SOMETHING THAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN DONE THREE YEARS AGO. HE SENT ME A MESSAGE SAYING THAT HE “REALIZES [I] MAY HAVE BEEN FRUSTRATED”, THOUGH WITHOUT A DOUBT, IT’S JUST TO INDULGE ME TO WORK HARDER FOR HIM.

IT’S A WASTED EFFORT, HOWEVER. I’M NOT GOING TO BE DOING IT FOR HIM---I’M DOING IT FOR OUR KIDS IN THE FIELD, HOWEVER FEW OF THEM ARE LEFT. MY FIRST ORDER OF BUSINESS, OF COURSE, IS TO KEEP THINGS PRACTICAL; MJOLNIR MIGHT BE THE BEST WAY OF KEEPING THEM ALIVE (CRIMSON HAS ALL BUT PROVED THAT) BUT ONI, OF COURSE, WILL NEVER SPRING FOR IT. INSTEAD, I WANT TO KEEP THINGS SIMPLE, AT LEAST AT FIRST. BETTER UP-LINK MODULES FOR THEIR SPI SUITS. IMPROVED HUD RECOGNITION SOFTWARE. MOTION TRACKERS THAT ARE UP TO MJOLNIR SPEC. LIGHTER MATERIALS, AND THE IMPLEMENTATION OF EXPERIMENTAL AV-CAM GEAR. HUD SUPPORT FOR MULTIPLE WEAPON SYSTEMS (PARTICULARLY IN MEMORY OF ARNOLD). SIMPLE, CHEAP STUFF THAT WE CAN ACCOMPLISH WITHOUT BREAKING THE BUDGET.

ONCE WE HAVE UPGRADES LIKE THOSE IN PLACE HOWEVER…I’M GOING TO KEEP GOING AS FAR AS RICH WILL LET ME. ARMOR ENHANCEMENTS, ENERGY SHIELDS, STRONGER MATERIALS. HAYABUSA SUITS, IF I CAN GET THE FUNDS AND GET RKD TO LOWER THE PRICE. ALL THE MEASURES THAT ME AND LAZ WANTED TO IMPLEMENT BUT COULDN’T, REALIZED AT LAST. ONI MIGHT SHOOT IT DOWN, BUT I CAN PLAN AHEAD AND PREPARE FOR THAT. I’M BUILDING A TIMETABLE CONCURRENTLY ALONGSIDE MY LIST OF UPGRADES, AND WITH ANY LUCK, THEY’LL BE READY WITHIN A YEARS TIME.

MAY 12TH, 2552

GOLD WAS IN SYSTEM A FEW DAYS AGO FOR AN EQUIPMENT PICKUP, SO I TOOK MY CHANCE AND ARRANGED A MEETING WITH THEM. COVERT MESSAGES, HOWEVER, USEFUL, CAN ONLY GO SO FAR, AND I’LL ADMIT THAT I ALSO WANTED TO SEE THEM---THOUGH WHETHER THAT WAS TO ANALYZE THEIR MENTAL STATE OR ASSUAGE MY OWN I CAN’T SAY. I WENT BEHIND RICH’S BACK A LITTLE BIT, FORMULATING A CONVENIENT COVER STORY, AND MANAGED TO GET THE EQUIPMENT PICKUP CHANGED FROM REACH TO TANTALUS. AFTER THAT, IT WAS EASY WORK MAKING CONTACT WITH THEM.

THEY SEEMED SURPRISED---PERHAPS A LITTLE BIT SUSPICIOUS---WITH MY METHODS, THOUGH THEY DIDN’T SAY ANYTHING. I KEPT A LOT FROM THEM ALL DURING TRAINING, NOT THE LEAST OF WHICH WAS MY DARKER SIDE; THEY KNEW THE STERN, DISCIPLINED, REGIMENTED COLONEL STANDOFF, NOT THE ONE WHO DISOBEYED ONI’S ORDERS AND WENT BEHIND THEIR BACK ON A REGULAR BASIS. GOLD WAS ALWAYS ONE OF OUR FEW “WELL BEHAVED” TEAMS; CONFIDENT, INTERNALLY COHERENT, (ASIDE FROM THAT DEAL WITH SCARLET), WELL ADJUSTED, RULE OBEYING KIDS WHO DID THINGS BY THE BOOK, AND DID THEM WELL. IT’S TRUE THEY HAD SOME EGO PROBLEMS, BUT IT WAS NEVER A HINDRANCE LIKE IT WAS FOR JENNIFER AND HER TEAM. OUT OF EVERYONE, THEY ALWAYS BELIEVED MOST STRONGLY IN THEIR MISSION, MOST READILY ACCEPTED THEIR CALLING. ALWAYS HAD SUCH HIGH CONFIDENCE IN THE UNSC AND ONI.

THEY’RE NOT THAT TEAM ANYMORE, HOWEVER. THEY’VE ALL CHANGED, PERHAPS FOR THE BETTER, PERHAPS NOT. THEY’RE SUSPICIOUS OF EVERYTHING THAT HAS TO DO WITH ONI (JACKY IN PARTICULAR LOOKED DOWNRIGHT HOSTILE TO THEIR LOCAL ONI CONTROLLER), AND LOOK WORN DOWN. THEIR CONFIDENCE IS SHAKEN, AND FROM WHAT I’VE HEARD, THEY’VE BEEN ACTING UP MORE AND MORE; MOUTHING OFF, GETTING RILED UP, ACTING ALMOST AS UNDISCIPLINED AS CRIMSON. SOME OF IT’S NATURAL COMBAT STRESS, BUT MUCH OF IT IS A REACTION TO RICKY’S DEATH. THEY CALMED DOWN A LITTLE BIT AS WE TALKED, BUT THEY SEEMED SUSPICIOUS EVEN OF ME (WHICH HURT A LOT MORE THAN I’D THOUGHT IT WOULD). WE TALKED FOR A FEW HOURS, BUT THEY DIDN’T SEEM EAGER TO SHARE ANY NEW INFORMATION ABOUT RICHARD’S DEATH. STILL, EVEN IF I’M NO CLOSER TO TRACKING DOWN RICKY’S KILLER, IT’S HELPFUL REGARDLESS. IT NEVER HURTS TO KNOW WHAT’S GOING ON INSIDE YOUR TROOP’S HEADS.

MAY 19TH, 2552

THIS IS THE FIRST TIME I’VE HAD TO WRITE IN WEEKS, THANKS TO A SUDDEN AND SLIGHTLY CONFUSING BREAK IN THE ACTION; FOR THE FIRST TIME IN YEARS, LITERALLY NONE OF OUR SQUADS IS CURRENTLY COMMITTED TO ACTIVE COMBAT. GOLD IS OUT ON PATROL, NOT CURRENTLY ENGAGED, CONNOR IS, OF COURSE, STUCK ABOARD AN ONI PROWLER, OLIVE IS RETURNING FROM THEIR DEPLOYMENT ON BULGARIA II, CRIMSON ARE ON THEIR WAY BACK FROM SIGMA OCTANUS,AND TURQUOISE IS CURRENTLY BETWEEN MISSIONS, WAITING FOR ORDERS. IT’S BEING MADE WEIRDER BY A SUDDEN DROP IN DIRTY ONI HARASSMENT; THEY SEEM PREOCCUPIED WITH SOMETHING ELSE, THOUGH I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT.

FREE TIME IS A LUXURY I CAN RARELY AFFORD, BUT I HARDLY REMEMBER WHAT TO DO WITH IT NOW ANYWAY. MOST OF THE ACTIVITIES I USED TO SPEND MY TIME ON SEEM POINTLESS NOW; INSTEAD, I SPEND MOST OF MY TIME THINKING. AND GIVEN TIME ALONE WITH MY THOUGHTS, I SEE THE REASON WHY ONI KEEPS ME WORKING SO HARD ALL THE TIME. BEING ALONE WITH YOUR THOUGHTS IS DANGEROUS…FOR THEM. IN MY SPARE TIME, I WAS AMUSING MYSELF GOING OVER THE CSVS FROM OUR SQUADS, AND CAME ACROSS THE REPORT OF CRIMSON TEAM’S ENGAGEMENT ON CORAL. I’D NEVER PAID A WHOLE LOT OF ATTENTION TO IT BEFORE, LOOKING AT IT ONLY LONG ENOUGH TO REDACT ANY MENTION OF CRIMSON’S MJOLNIR, BUT THIS TIME I PAID A CLOSER EYE. I LOOKED UP THEIR MISSION; RETRIEVE CLASSIFIED “ARCHEOLOGICAL DATA” FROM AN ONI COMPLEX AND EXFIL. NOT TOO BAD OF A MISSION…EXCEPT THAT THEY WERE DEPLOYED AGAINST COVENANT FORCES TO A PLANET UNDER DIRECT SIEGE, WITHOUT DEFENSES, PRACTICALLY IN PROGRESS OF BEING GLASSED.

THAT SET OFF ALARM BELLS, AND I CHECKED THE REPORT ON SIGMA OCTANUS, WHICH JUST CAME IN. TURNS OUT, THEY HAD A SIMILAR MISSION PROFILE; THEY WERE DEPLOYED TO THE PLANET WITH AN UNSECURED ORBITAL FRONT, WHICH COULD HAVE EASILY TURNED UGLY. ALL TO “DISTRACT AND SUPPORT LOCAL UNSC FORCES” AKA, RUN A DISTRACTION FOR THE CLASS I SPARTANS ON THE GROUND---WHO WERE, COINCIDENTALLY, DEPLOYED TO RETRIEVE SOME ARCHEOLOGICAL ARTIFACT FROM COTE DE AZURE. I LOOKED INTO THE OTHER SQUAD CSV, AND NOTICED AN ALARMINGLY SIMILAR TREND; GOLD TEAM SENT TO INVESTIGATE SOME SORT OF “ALIEN COMPLEX”---A NEAR SUICIDE MISSION---IN 2550. TURQUOISE, DISPATCHED BY THEMSELVES TO HAT-YAI, TO DESTROY ANOTHER ONE. I CAN’T BELIEVE I DIDN’T NOTICE THIS UNTIL NOW.

ONI IS USING MY SPARTANS AS PRIVATE GRIM REAPERS TO PROTECT THEIR CLASSIFIED STORAGE FACILITIES. IT’S THE ONLY EXPLANATION.

JULY 26TH, 2552

CRIMSON ARE DUE IN TOMORROW FROM THEIR DEPLOYMENT ON SIGMA OCTANUS. I’M STILL WAITING TO DEBRIEF THEM PERSONALLY, BUT I FINALLY GOT SOME INFORMATION ON THEIR PERFORMANCE; FROM WHAT I’VE HEARD, IT DIDN’T GO WELL. CRIMSON LOCATED A CONTINGENT OF COVENANT TROOPS HEADING FOR THE NEARBY MARINE STAGING GROUND, AND MOVED TO INTERCEPT. THEY UNDERESTIMATED THE SIZE OF THE FORCE, HOWEVER, AND GOT HIT HARD DURING THEIR ESCAPE; JAMES WAS CRITICALLY WOUNDED, AND WHILE THEY MANAGED TO EVACUATE HIM, HE’LL BE DOWN FOR TWO MONTHS AT THE MINIMUM. ONI’S CONTACT REPORT OBVIOUSLY DIDN’T PAY ANY MIND TO ROGER OR MICA’S MENTAL STATE, SO THAT’S THE FIRST THING I’LL CHECK ON WHEN THEY GET BACK. IF THERE’S ANYTHING I’VE LEARNED THROUGH THE COURSE OF THE WAR, IT’S THAT THESE TEAMS ARE VERY VULNERABLE WHEN THEY TAKE LOSSES.

STILL, IT’LL BE NICE TO HAVE THEM HOME AGAIN, IF ONLY FOR A SHORT WHILE. GOLD’S STAY WAS NICE, HOWEVER BRIEF IT WAS. IT WILL ALSO GIVE ME A WELCOME CHANCE TO TALK TO ROGER ABOUT SOME MORE DELICATE MATTERS OFF THE RADIO. PRINCIPAL AMONG THIS IS MY RECENT SUCCESSES IN PENETRATING MJOLNIR’S SECURITY---THANKS IN LARGE PART TO LASZLO’S OLD INFILTRATION ROUTINE---AND THE THINGS I’VE FOUND OUT ABOUT THEIR SUITS. OVER THE PAST FEW MONTHS, I’VE BEEN DOING MY BEST TO BREAK INTO HALSEY’S MJOLNIR FILES (ALONGSIDE THE FILES OF SOME OF ONI’S OTHER POWERED ARMOR SYSTEMS) AND I’VE HAD SOME STRIKING SUCCESSES. THE FACT THAT IT’S ALL STOLEN DOESN’T BOTHER ME MUCH ANYMORE. ANYTHING TO TAKE CARE OF MY SPARTANS IS A PRICE WORTH PAYING.

CRIMSON’S VISIT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE A SIMPLE BRIEFING AND RESUPPLY, BUT NOW IT’S TRANSFORMED INTO SOMETHING OF A TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE. I RECENTLY UNCOVERED FILES ON A PROJECT ONI’S RECENTLY BEEN FIELD TESTING WITH NOBLE TEAM, SPECIALIZED ARMOR ENHANCEMENTS---COLLOQUIALLY KNOWN IN THE FIELD AS “ARMOR ABILITIES”. FURTHERMORE, I’VE MANAGED TO GRAB FRAGMENTS OF DATA ON THEM---ENOUGH TO FASHION OUR OWN VARIANTS. I’VE GOT ONE OF OUR FEW REMAINING ENGINEER TEAMS WORKING ON THEM AT THE MOMENT, WHICH WILL HOPEFULLY BE READY BY THE 9TH. IF ALL GOES WELL, WE’LL BE ABLE TO EQUIP CRIMSON WITH OUR CURRENT PROTOTYPE---THE ACTIVE CAMOUFLAGE VARIANT) BEFORE THEY SHIP OUT, AND SIGNIFICANTLY BOOST THEIR CHANCES. THAT'S ON TOP OF MORE MUNDANE UPGRADES IN THE WORKS LIKE UPGRADED SHIELD GENERATORS AND POWER SUPPLIES.  THEY WON'T JUST BE ON PAR WITH HALSEY'S SPARTANS, THEY'LL HAVE AN EDGE.

AUGUST 6TH, 2552

SOMETIMES THE DAY SURPRISES YOU IN LITTLE WAYS, AND AT OTHER TIMES, THE DAILY SHOCKS ARE FAR MORE EXPANSIVE. MY AGENDA, THIS MORNING, WAS TO MEET UP WITH CRIMSON AND GIVE THEM THEIR FINAL BRIEFING BEFORE THEY SHIPPED OUT FOR THEIR COVERT OP ON NEW JERUSALEM. JUST A SIMPLE SHUTTLE RIDE FROM THE BASE TO OUR LIAISON OFFICE ON REACH, WHERE I’D GIVE THEM WHAT LITTLE INTEL WE HAVE ON THE PLACE AND ANSWER ANY OF THEIR QUESTIONS. WHAT ACTUALLY HAPPENED, HOWEVER, WAS VERY, VERY DIFFERENT.

ONI’S BEEN KEEPING IT QUIET FOR THE LAST FEW WEEKS, BUT TODAY IT BECAME IMPOSSIBLE TO HIDE. THE COVENANT ARE ON REACH, IN FORCE. IT’S SURREAL JUST WRITING THE WORDS; REACH IS REALLY OUR LAST TRUE SAFE HAVEN, OUR ONLY REMAINING FORTRESS WORLD. THE THOUGHT THAT THEY ARE THERE---AND EVEN MORE, THAT THEY’VE BEEN THERE FOR SOME TIME---SEEMS IMPOSSIBLE. THAT SENTIMENT WILL PASS QUICKLY, I HOPE, BUT THAT’S LIKELY TO BE ABOUT THE ONLY THING. THE COVENANT FORCE HAS, SO FAR, BEEN REVEALED TO BE FAIRLY SMALL, BUT NO ONE THINKS THAT’S GOING TO LAST; THE COVENANT NEVER DO ANYTHING BY HALF MEASURES.

WHAT LITTLE I’VE GATHERED ON THE SITUATION INDICATES THAT THE ARMY (SUPPLEMENTED BY THE NAVY AND NONE OTHER THAN THE NOBLE TEAM ME AND LAZ DISCOVERED) WILL BE LAUNCHING A FULL SCALE ASSAULT ON THE ENEMY WITHIN HOURS. FROM WHAT I’VE HEARD, THE COVENANT HAVE DEPLOYED SEVERAL CLOAKING SHIELDS, WHICH WILL BE THE FIRST TARGET. THEY’RE KEEPING THINGS COVERT, TO BOTH FOOL THE COVENANT AND KEEP THINGS CONTAINED ON THE SURFACE, BUT I’VE GOT ENOUGH EXPERIENCE TO PICK OUT SOMETHING THIS BIG. CRIMSON IS BEING ROPED IN, AS WELL---THOUGH I HAVEN’T HEARD ANYTHING, AS OF YET, ON THEIR ROLE.

WHAT’S GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT IS ANYONE'S GUESS.

AUGUST 12TH, 2552

THINGS ARE HAPPENING FAST ON REACH, AND WE’RE WORKING AROUND THE CLOCK TO TRY AND DO ANYTHING WE CAN. ORBITAL CAMERAS SHOW ENTIRE AREAS OF THE SURFACE ABLAZE; AFTER THE ASSAULT ON VIERY BEGAN TO TURN UGLY FOR THE COVENANT, THEY AMBUSHED US WITH A CLOAKED SUPERCARRIER AND BROUGHT THE HAMMER DOWN HARD. NOBLE TEAM (THEY’RE TAKING A CENTER ROLE IN THE ACTION, CONVENIENTLY GRABBING THE SPOTLIGHT AWAY FROM THE OTHER SPARTAN TEAMS) DESTROYED IT WITH SOME SORT OF SLIP SPACE BOMB, SPARING THE SURFACE FROM TOTAL ANNIHILATION, BUT A FULL COVENANT FLEET ARRIVED SOON AFTER. IT’S LARGE, BUT HAS SO FAR KEPT IT’S DISTANCE (MAYBE IT FEARS THE S-MAC PLATFORMS?). MORE AND MORE COVENANT ARE DEPLOYING TO THE SURFACE THOUGH (NO ONE KNOWS HOW, JUST THAT THEY ARE), AND PRACTICALLY THE WHOLE FLEET IS BEING RECALLED.

AS FAR AS OUR SIDE GOES, THINGS ARE HEATING UP AS WELL. NONE OF OUR OTHER TEAMS HAVE ARRIVED YET, BUT LAST I HEARD, CRIMSON WAS HELPING STAGE A RE-TAKING OF THE SABRE FACILITIES, NOW UNDER FIRM COVENANT CONTROL. A SUICIDE MISSION FOR ANYONE OTHER THAN SPARTANS; CHANCY, EVEN THEN. I MONITOR THEM WHENEVER I CAN. MEANWHILE, CONNOR IS STILL OUT OF TOUCH---RICH HAS HIM UNDER CAREFUL WATCH ON ONE OF HIS PROWLERS---AND GOLD IS OUT OF CONTACT, MAROONED ON REGENT. TURQUOISE IS INBOUND, BUT LIKELY WON’T ARRIVE UNTIL THE 29TH. WE’RE SPREAD DANGEROUSLY THIN OVER THE GALAXY, EVEN WITHIN OUR OWN PROGRAM. WE’VE LITERALLY GOT ONLY 2 SPARTANS LEFT TO DEFEND THE PLANET.

NOT THAT THERE'S ANY SHORTAGE OF SPARTANS, THOUGH. HALSEY’S SPARTANS HAVE ARRIVED IN SYSTEM FROM DEPLOYMENT’S THROUGHOUT THE GALAXY, THIRTY OF THEM IN ALL, THOUGH THEY’RE BEING KEPT OUT OF THE FIGHT BY HIGHCOMM, WHO ARE FOCUSING THEM SOLELY ON OPERATION: RED FLAG---HALSEY’S LAST DITCH ATTEMPT TO WIN THE WAR. MEANWHILE, I’M HEARING RUMORS OF TEAMS LIKE ECHO, GAUNTLET, AND RED BEING PREPARED, UNDER DIRECT ORDERS FROM HIGHCOMM. IT’S ALL SHAPING UP TO BE ONE HELL OF A BIG FIGHT, AND I’M NOT SURE WHEN I’LL GET THE CHANCE TO WRITE AGAIN (IF EVER). I FEEL LIKE I SHOULD MAKE THE MOST OF IT NOW, IN CASE I DON’T HAVE A CHANCE LATER, BUT THERE’S SIMPLY NO TIME FOR IT.

AUGUST 17TH, 2552

IT’S BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE I’VE HAD A MOMENT TO MYSELF---AND IT’LL PROBABLY BE A LONG TIME FOLLOWING THIS---SO I FEEL I SHOULD USE THIS QUIET MOMENT TO THE BEST OF MY ABILITY. SO MUCH HAS HAPPENED SINCE I LAST WROTE, THAT IT’S HARD TO REMEMBER IT ALL. OBVIOUSLY, REACH FELL, FOLLOWED IN QUICK SUCCESSION BY THE OTHER, SMALLER COLONIES IN EPSILON ERIDANUS. TANTALUS WAS THE LAST TO GET HIT, SO I GOT TO WATCH IT ALL---NOT THAT I REALLY WANTED TOO, OF COURSE. I DOUBT I’LL FORGET IT, SO IT SEEMS POINTLESS WRITING IT DOWN, BUT JUST IN CASE MY MEMORY GOES THIRTY YEARS DOWN THE ROAD, I’M GOING TO POINT OUT THAT ROGER AND MICA ACTUALLY CAME BACK FOR ME---FOUGHT STRAIGHT THROUGH THE COVENANT INVASION FORCE TO GET ME OUT OF THE PROJECT HQ. APPARENTLY, THEY LIKE ME EVEN MORE THAN I THOUGHT.

WE’RE ALL CURRENTLY ABOARD A CIVILIAN FREIGHTER, RETREATING BACK TO EARTH. WE’RE DUE IN IN A FEW WEEKS, BUT THERE ARE NO CRYO TUBES ABOARD (ALL THE LEFTOVER SPACE WAS DEVOTED TO REFUGEES), SO WE’RE AWAKE FOR THE WHOLE TRIP. IT’S A CHANCE TO CATCH UP ON THINGS I’VE FALLEN BEHIND IN---LIKE THIS JOURNAL---SO I DON’T WANT TO COMPLAIN…BUT IT IS VERY CROWDED. THERE’S MORE STRANGERS ON THIS SHIP THAN I’VE SEEN IN YEARS; TO BE HONEST, IT’S A LITTLE OVERWHELMING AFTER MY SECLUSION IN THE PROJECT HQ.

MOOD ON THE SHIP IS PRETTY SOMBER, THOUGH I GUESS IT COULD BE WORSE. REACH WAS OUR LAST BASTION, OUR FORTRESS WORLD. IT REPRESENTED ONE OF THE LAST SOLIDS LEFT IN OUR EXISTENCE. WITH IT GONE, PEOPLE AREN’T THE SAME. ABOUT THE ONLY PERSON WHO DOESN’T SEEM AFFECTED IS ROGER; EVEN MICA IS DOWN. BEFORE MY TRANSCEIVER GOT HIT, I HEARD MOST OF THE CLASS ONES HAD BEEN DEPLOYED TO THE SURFACE, AND KILLED IN A FRIENDLY MAC STRIKE (TALK ABOUT A DAMN SHAME)---SO THE LOSSES WEREN’T JUST STANDARD MILITARY. NO ONE SEEMS TO KNOW WHAT’S GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT. HOPEFULLY THINGS WILL CLEAR UP WHEN WE GET TO EARTH.

SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2552

NEVER IMAGINED THAT I’D SAY THIS, BUT I THINK I’M ACTUALLY STARTING TO MISS OLD ADMIRAL RICH. DESPITE BEING A DEATH DEALING, BACKSTABBING BASTARD, HE HAD HIS MOMENTS (AND, AS FAR AS I COULD EVER TELL, NO LOVE FOR SPOOKS). IN THE AFTERMATH OF CONNOR’S MENTAL BREAKDOWN AND CRIMSON’S NONE TO SUBTLE ESCAPE FROM EPSILON ERIDANUS (TO SAY NOTHING OF RICHARD), I’VE BEEN FIELDING AN ARRAY OF DIFFICULT QUESTIONS FROM ALL MANNER OF PEOPLE WITHIN ONI. I NEVER REALLY REALIZED HOW MUCH RICH DEFLECTED AWAY FROM ME; WITH HIM GONE, THE FLOODGATES HAVE COME CRASHING OPEN, AND EVERYTHING IS OPEN SEASON. I CAN'T EVEN TELL WHOSE DIRTY ONI AND WHOSE "CLEAN"; RICH HAD HIS OWN LIST OF BACKERS THAT VANISHED WHEN HE GOT HIMSELF KILLED.

HE MAY HAVE BEEN A LOUSY OLD BASTARD, BUT SOMETIMES YOU DON’T REALIZE HOW MUCH YOU APPRECIATE SOMEONE UNTIL THEIR GONE. LORD HOOD IS PESTERING ME WITH QUESTIONS ABOUT THE ORIGINS OF MY ARES TEAMS; MEMBER’S OF THE ORDINANCE COMMITTEE ARE DEMANDING THAT CRIMSON RETURN THEIR EXPERIMENTAL ARMOR PROTOTYPES. AND ALL THE WHILE, I’VE GOT ANONYMOUS ONI AGENTS BREATHING DOWN MY NECK AND WATCHING ME LIKE A HAWK TO MAKE SURE I DON’T DISCLOSE ANYTHING DAMAGING. I'VE GOT DIRTY ONI ON ONE SIDE, WITH BOTH BEEFS WITH ME AND AN EXPECTATION THAT I UPHOLD SECRECY, AND "CLEAN" ONI ON THE OTHER SIDE, SIMPLY DEMANDING ANSWERS. FOR NOW, I’M STUCK STALLING THEM, WAITING UNTIL A BETTER PLAN PRESENTS ITSELF---OR UNTIL FATE OFFERS A CONVENIENT WAY OUT OF THINGS (NOT THAT THAT’S LIKELY, OF COURSE).

THE STRAIN IS BEING MADE SOMEWHAT EASIER BY THE ARRIVAL OF A FEW CHOICE DISTRACTIONS, THOUGH HOW LONG THEY’LL KEEP THINGS AT BAY IS DEBATABLE. [S-117] AND COMPANY ARRIVED IN SYSTEM A FEW WEEKS AGO IN A REPAIRED DESTROYER (APPARENTLY SALVAGED FROM REACH’S ORBIT) AND IT SEEMS AS IF EVERYONE AND THEIR BROTHER AT ONI ARE TRIPPING OVER EACH OTHER TRYING TO DEBRIEF THEM FIRST (AND FIND OUT WHERE THE CHARLIE ONES HAVE BEEN FOR THE LAST FEW MONTHS). THE TURMOIL IS SERVING AS A USEFUL DISTRACTION, THOUGH IT’S PROBABLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE THEY DEBRIEF HIM AND REALIZE HIS STORY IS PROBABLY JUST SOME UNEVENTFUL, PATIENT ESCAPE---IT’S NOT LIKE ANY OF THEM COULD HAVE GOTTEN UP TO ANY REAL TROUBLE ANYWAY (RELATIVE TO SPARTAN STANDARDS, I MEAN).

OCTOBER 17TH, 2552

I’LL PROBABLY HAVE TO EDIT THIS LATER TO MAKE THINGS A LITTLE MORE ORGANIZED, BUT FOR NOW I’LL SETTLE WITH JUST GETTING THE INFORMATION WRITTEN DOWN. THINGS ARE HAPPENING TO QUICKLY TO DESCRIBE IN FULL DETAIL, AND THE CONFUSION RIGHT NOW IS WORSE THAN ANY FOG OF WAR. TWO DAYS AGO, THE NOW INFAMOUS [S-117] LANDED IN AFRICA AND SPEARHEADED AN ASSAULT ON VOI, PUSHING THE COVENANT BACK TO SOME SORT OF ANCIENT ALIEN ARTIFACT---APPARENTLY CREATED BY A LONG DEAD RACE CALLED THE “FORERUNNERS”. CRIMSON TRIED TO LINK UP WITH THE ASSAULT, APPARENTLY (WHICH WAS ABOUT THE TIME I LOST TRACK OF THEM), BUT WERE SHOT DOWN EN ROUTE AND HAD TO PROCEED ON FOOT. THAT’S NOT EVEN THE BEGINNING OF IT, HOWEVER; TO MAKE THINGS EVEN MORE COMPLICATED, THERE'S APPARENTLY BEEN SORT OF SCHISM IN THE COVENANT RANKS, WITH THE BRUTES USURPING THE ELITES, AND WE’RE NOW SHAKY, TEMPORARY ALLIES WITH THEM---AS CRAZY AS IT SOUNDS.

MEANWHILE, I’VE BEEN TRYING TO KEEP TABS ON BATTLES IN DOZENS OF DIFFERENT HOTSPOTS ACROSS THE PLANET, IN PARTICULAR WHERE MY CLASS III’S ARE DEPLOYED. THE BATTLE IN GENERAL IS WINDING DOWN, SINCE THE MAJORITY OF THE COVENANT FORCES LEFT IN THE PORTAL (SHIT, DID I FORGET TO MENTION THAT? RIGHT.  THAT “FORERUNNER” ARTIFACT LINKED TO SOME SORT OF SLIPSPACE PORTAL, WHICH THE COVENANT ACTIVATED AND ENTERED, HEADING TO GOD KNOWS WHERE.) BUT THERE’S STILL PLENTY OF ACTION TO GO AROUND. TURQUOISE IS STILL FINISHING UP IN TOKYO, CRIMSON IS, AS MENTIONED, MOPPING THINGS UP IN VOI, AND GOLD IS HARASSING ENEMY SUPPLY LINES IN WASHINGTON. THAT’S TO SAY NOTHING OF RACHEL AND BALDUIN---I FINALLY FOUND THEM!---WHO ARE OPERATING IN SOME SORT OF MIXED SPARTAN UNIT, WINTER TEAM, AND WORKING ALONGSIDE LASZLO (WHOSE HERE TOO; IT’S ALMOST A REUNION). I’M NOT GETTING MUCH INFORMATION ON THEM, AND DON’T HAVE TIME TO GO DIGGING, BUT IT’S ENOUGH FOR NOW TO KNOW THEY’RE STILL ALIVE (LASZLO BEING WITH THEM HELPS TOO).

I’M CURRENTLY HELPING COORDINATE OFFENSIVES ON THE SURFACE, BUT I’VE BEEN CONTACTED BY LORD HOOD AND ASKED TO WORK AS HIS LIAISON WITH ROGER & MICA; AFTER HIS EXPERIENCES WITH TAN TEAM, HE’S VERY EAGER TO HAVE MORE ARES OPERATORS UNDER HIS COMMAND (YET IS STILL IGNORANT OF THEIR ORIGINS---SOMETHING I CAN'T HELP BUT FIND A LITTLE BIT FUNNY). HE WANTS TO PAIR THEM WITH A GROUP OF SPECIAL FORCES ELITES (I WON’T EVEN START ON THE SURREALITY) AND HAVE ME COORDINATE A JOINT MISSION TO LIBERATE MARS. I’M STALLING ON THAT UNTIL JAMES FINISHES HIS TREATMENT (WHICH WILL BE ONLY A FEW DAYS), SO THAT WE CAN SEND THE TEAM IN AT FULL STRENGTH. IF HOOD DOESN’T LISTEN, I MAY JUST TELL HIM TO SHOVE IT; THIS LATE INTO THE WAR, I COULD CARE LESS ABOUT REGULATIONS, AND I’M NOT GETTING ANY MORE OF MY KIDS KILLED ON STUPID MISSIONS.

NOVEMBER 19TH, 2552

2553
IT’S OVER. I KEEP REPEATING THE WORDS TO MYSELF, JUST TO MAKE SURE I’M NOT DREAMING, BECAUSE THE WAR HAS DOMINATED PRACTICALLY MY ENTIRE LIFE, BUT IT REALLY IS FINISHED. AS OF FOUR DAYS AGO, THE COVENANT IS EFFECTIVELY NO MORE. WITH THE HELP OF THE ELITES, WE PUSHED BACK THE BRUTES ALL THE WAY TO THEIR HOME PLANET, AND ANNIHILATED THEIR REMAINING FORCES. TODAY THERE WAS A MEMORIAL SERVICE OF SORTS, A PEACE OFFERING TO THE ELITES FROM LORD HOOD, TO COMMEMORATE THE VICTORY. IT’S UNREAL, TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE; YET IT IS. AFTER OVER 28 YEARS, THE WAR IS FINALLY FINISHED. WE WON. IN MERE MONTHS SINCE REACH, WHICH SEEMED SO DEVASTATING, THE SIDES HAVE FLIPPED AND WE HAVE ACHIEVED THE IMPOSSIBLE.

FOR ME, THE END OF THE WAR IS FAR MORE PERSONAL THAN I COULD HAVE IMAGINED, AND WHAT SHOULD BE A HAPPY DAY IS CLOUDED BY DARKER EVENTS. DURING THE BATTLE, MICA AND JAMES WERE BOTH KILLED IN A BRUTE AMBUSH; ROGER IS NOW THE ONLY REMAINING MEMBER OF CRIMSON, AND IS SET ON LEAVING THE SERVICE (ONI WILL TRY TO STOP HIM OF COURSE---TRY BEING THE KEY WORD THERE). LIKE ALL THE OTHERS, THE DEATHS OF HIS TEAM ARE EFFECTING ROGER STRONGLY---NO SURPRISE, BUT STILL PAINFUL IN IT’S OWN UNIQUE WAY.

IT’S NOT JUST CRIMSON, THOUGH; THE ENTIRE ROSTER HAS BEEN SHREDDED, AND NOW ONLY A HANDFUL OF OUR SPARTANS REMAIN. RACHEL, BALDUIN, ADAM, LUCIA, MATHEW, JACKY, MASON, AND ROGER. CONNOR IS ALIVE AS WELL, BUT SERIOUSLY WOUNDED; HE COMPLETED AN ONI SUICIDE MISSION, BUT NEARLY KILLED HIMSELF IN THE PROCESS, DETONATING A COVENANT REACTOR PRACTICALLY ON TOP OF HIMSELF. EIGHT SPARTANS REMAIN FROM A CLASS OF 50. EACH DEATH, IN SOME WAY, PARTIALLY MY FAULT.

WE MAY HAVE WON THE WAR, BUT NOT WITHOUT A PRICE.

MARCH 3RD, 2553

2554
IT’S HARDLY BEEN A YEAR SINCE THE WAR ENDED, BUT THE GALACTIC BALANCE HAS SHIFTED DRAMATICALLY. WORK HAS ALREADY STARTED ON RE-TERAFORMING REACH AND A DOZEN OTHER COLONIES, THE UEG IS GIVING OUT MASSIVE CONTRACTS TO HELP RESTORE THE ECONOMY, AND THE MILITARY HAS SUDDENLY BEEN TRANSFORMED INTO THE DOMINANT FORCE IN THE GALAXY WITH ONI'S NEW "INFINITY" VESSEL. I’M STILL HAUNTED BY THE GHOSTS OF EVERYONE LOST, ENOUGH THAT IT KEEPS ME UP AT NIGHT, BUT IT SEEMS THAT THE GALAXY IS MOVING FORWARD. CONNOR IS TAKING A WELL DESERVED BREAK AND WORKING AS A SNIPER INSTRUCTOR FOR THE MARINES, GOLD TEAM IS COMBATING KIG-YAR RAIDERS ON THE EDGES OF OUR SPACE, ADAM AND LUCIA ARE BUSY ON PHOENIX, AND RACHEL AND BALDUIN ARE FOLLOWING LASZLO AROUND, TAGGING ALONG WITH HIM ON MISSIONS. WORD AROUND TOWN IS THAT ALL OF OUR OPERATORS (STILL SOMEHOW MASQUERADING AS S-III'S) ARE GOING TO BE ROLLED INTO S-IV, BUT I'VE GOT NO WAY TO TELL IF THAT RUMOR IS TRUE.

ROGER IN PARTICULAR SEEMS TO HAVE REINVENTED HIMSELF. OUT OF EVERYONE, I THINK HE HAS IT MOST DIFFICULT, BECAUSE HIS CASUALTIES WERE SO RECENT, BUT HE SEEMS TO BE PUSHING THROUGH THE GRIEF MUCH BETTER THAN MANY OF THE OTHERS DID---WITH AN EYE ON RACHEL AND CONNOR IN PARTICULAR. HE’S WORKING AS A MERCENARY NOW, AND HAS STARTED HIS OWN COMPANY TO SUPPORT HIM. HE’S PARTNERED HIMSELF WITH AN ELITE---EXCUSE ME, SANGHEILI---NAMED SUNEF MHACKPHISTHO, A FORMER HONOR GUARD HE FOUGHT ALONGSIDE AT DOISAC, AND I HEAR HE EVEN WENT BACK TO ALGOLIS AND GRABBED A SUIT OF MJOLNIR THAT WAS LEFT BEHIND WHEN THEY EVACUATED THE PLANET. NOT EXACTLY CONVENTIONAL, BUT THE NEW JOB CERTAINLY SEEMS TO FIT HIM. LITTLE BIT WEIRD NOWADAYS TO SEE A SPARTAN RUNNING AROUND ALONGSIDE A SANGHEILI, GIVEN THE RECENT TENSION, BUT I GUESS IT'S PHYSICAL PROOF OF JUST HOW FRAGMENTED ELITE SOCIETY IS BECOMING. I TOLD LASZLO, AND HE DIDN’T FIND IT SURPRISING IN THE SLIGHTEST THAT ROGER WOULD DO SOMETHING SO...OUT THERE.

AND SPEAKING OF LASZLO, I FIGURE I SHOULD MENTION THAT I TALKED TO HIM AS WELL, IF I WANT TO FINISH THIS RECAP OFF RIGHT. WE BUMPED INTO EACH OTHER WHILE HE WAS IN BETWEEN DEPLOYMENTS, AND IT WAS QUITE THE EXPERIENCE TO TALK TO HIM AND HIS TWO YOUNG SIDEKICKS AGAIN. THEY WERE TALKING OF JOINING OPERATION: SAVIOR, TO HELP LOOK FOR [S-117]. I WAS A LITTLE SURPRISED, TO BE HONEST; LASZLO SAID THAT HE’D NEVER BEEN GREAT FRIENDS WITH HIM, AND HAD HAD A HARD TIME IDENTIFYING WITH “HALSEY’S FAVORITES”, LIKE HIM. WHEN I ASKED HIM ABOUT IT, HE WASN’T VERY CLEAR ON HIS REASONS. HE MENTIONED THAT HE WANTED TO STICK WITH THE OTHER SPARTANS OF HIS CLASS (PARTICULARLY [S-012], WHO WAS APPARENTLY ONE OF HIS CLOSE FRIENDS), BUT I CAN’T HELP WONDERING IF HE REALLY KNOWS. THEN AGAIN, I COULD BE PROJECTING MY OWN DOUBTS ONTO HIM; I’VE ALWAYS GOT TO BE CAREFUL ABOUT THAT. REGARDLESS OF HIS REASONS, WHEN WE SAID GOODBYE, I REALIZE IT WAS LIKELY FOR GOOD; THEY’LL SPEND MUCH OF THEIR TIME IN CRYO, AND THE SEARCH COULD GO ON FOR DECADES. IT’S HARD TO THINK ABOUT, BUT I’LL LIKELY BE DEAD BY THE TIME HE COMES BACK. IT’S AN ODD FEELING, BUT I FEEL MYSELF WONDERING ABOUT SUCH THINGS MORE AND MORE. THAT’S A SIGN THAT I’M GETTING OLD, IF NOTHING ELSE.

MARCH 19TH, 2554

2557
VERY FEW ASPECTS OF MY OLD LIFE REMAIN INTACT, THESE DAYS. THE SHARP, PIERCING FOCUS THAT I HAD DURING THE WAR IS GONE, REPLACED BY A HOLLOW SENSE OF PURPOSELESSNESS. THE CLASS IIIS ARE GONE NOW, MOST OUT OF CONTACT FOR YEARS. LASZLO, RACHEL, AND BALDUIN ARE OUT THERE SEARCHING FOR [S-117], SOMEWHERE AMONG THE STARS. THEY'RE READY TO BE RECALLED AGAIN AT ANY TIME SHOULD [S-117] BE FOUND, BUT I DOUBT I’LL EVER SEE THEM AGAIN, TO BE HONEST. CONNOR IS STILL TEACHING MARINE SNIPERS, AND WE HAVEN’T TALKED IN YEARS. HE SEEMS PERMANENTLY DAMAGED BY THE LOSSES HE’S SUSTAINED. ADAM AND LUCIA HAVE DROPPED OUT OF CONTACT WITH ME, AS WELL; THEY’RE OFF ON MISSIONS, NOW A WELL KNOWN AND RENOWNED GROUP OF OPERATORS, NO LONGER SHROUDED IN A CLOAK OF SECRECY. GOLD MEANWHILE HAS BEEN FOLDED INTO S-IV, MUCH LIKE THE LAST OF THE GAMMA COMPANY S-III'S--WORD IS THAT THEY'RE THEIR OWN FIRE TEAM ON INFINITY. THEY’RE ALL GONE, AND IT’S HARD TO STAY FOCUSED. AFTER TRAINING STARTED, SUPPORTING THEM BECAME MY WORLD; NOW THAT THEY’RE OFF ON THEIR OWN, I FEEL OUT EMPTY.

I’VE NEVER FELT THIS KIND OF DISORIENTATION BEFORE, BUT IT’S PLAGUED ME SINCE THE WAR ENDED. WHEN I WAS A SOLDIER, THERE WAS ALWAYS SOME CLEAR OBJECTIVE, SOME LARGER GOAL---AND OF COURSE, WHEN THE COVENANT ARRIVED, THAT GOAL BECAME EVEN MORE DEFINED. DIRTY ONI PULLED STRINGS AND MANAGED TO FORCE ME INTO A DEAD END, POINTLESS JOB---THEIR WAY OF GETTING BACK AT ME AFTER ALL THE YEARS OF HEADACHE I CAUSED THEM. I GUESS I CAN’T BLAME THEM, EVEN IF IT MAKES ME MISERABLE. GIVEN ALL OF THAT, I FEEL ALMOST NOSTALGIC ANNOUNCING WHAT THIS ENTRY WAS SUPPOSED TO BE ABOUT: MY LAST TIE TO THE PROGRAM, THE MYSTERY OF RICKY'S DEATH, AT LAST HAS HAD SOME LIGHT SHONE ON IT.

FROM WHAT I CAN TELL, RICKY WAS KILLED BY A SECTION ZERO TRIGGERMAN--PROBABLY SOMEONE FROM ONE OF THE HIGHER TIER TRIGGER GROUPS WITHIN THE AGENCY. WHATEVER GROUP ACTUALLY PULLED THE HIT, THE REASONING IS THE SAME: A GODDAMN COMMUNICATION ERROR BETWEEN RICH'S DIRTY ONI AND "CLEAN" ONI. SECTION 0 NEVER HEARD ABOUT GOLD AND SCARLET BEING SENT AFTER RICKY, SINCE RICH KEPT IT SO SECRETIVE, AND A HIGH-LEVEL AGENT WAS SENT IN TO KILL HIM, WITH "CLEAN" ONI BEING UNAWARE OF GOLD'S INVOLVEMENT UNTIL AFTER THE DUST HAD SETTLED. BUREAUCRATIC BUNGLING, LEADING TO THE DEATH OF A SOLDIER WHO FOUGHT AND SACRIFICED UNBELIEVABLY FOR HUMANITY. BASED ON RESEARCH, I'VE NARROWED THE LIKELY SUSPECTS TO CODENAME: CHAUCER'S FIELD INVESTIGATION TEAM, COLONEL DENT'S ENFORCEMENT DIVISION, OR CODENAME: EMERALD'S DIRECT ACTION TEAM. I TRIED DIGGING INTO THE IDENTITY OF THE ACTUAL AGENT WHO PERFORMED THE HIT, BUT HIT A STONEWALL THE LIKE'S OF WHICH I'VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE. EIGHT YEARS AGO, IT WOULD HAVE LIT A FIRE UNDER ME. BUT NOW...I DON'T KNOW. THE DAUNTING HOPELESSNESS OF THE TASK IS NOTHING SHORT OF CRUSHING. IT'S LIKE I FINALLY REALIZED, FOR THE FIRST TIME, THAT THIS IS THE BEST I WILL DO. RICKY'S KILLER WILL ESCAPE JUSTICE.

MAYBE THE FIGHT HAS GONE OUT OF ME.

MAY 18TH, 2557

WOKE UP THREE DAYS AGO IN PARANGOSKY MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER, SPORTING A SYRINGE IN MY ARM AND A BANDAGE ACROSS MY HEAD. THINGS ARE DAMN FUZZY WITH ALL THE PAIN MEDS THEY'RE SHOOTING INTO ME, BUT I GUESS THAT'S A PRICE YOU HAVE TO PAY WHEN YOU TRY AND BLOW YOUR OWN HEAD OFF. I'M GOING TO BLAME MODERN MEDICAL SCIENCE FOR BEING TOO EXCELLENT FOR IT'S OWN DAMN GOOD (OR MY OWN DAMN GOOD, I SHOULD SAY) BECAUSE I CAN'T REMEMBER MUCH OF WHAT HAPPENED, AND I DON'T WANT TO BELIEVE I'VE GOTTEN SO SOFT I COULDN'T EVEN KILL MYSELF PROPERLY. FROM WHAT THE DOCS HERE HAVE TOLD ME, I TOOK A LIGHT CIVILIAN GUN, PUT A ROUND IN MY OWN FACE, AND DIDN'T DO ANYTHING BUT TAKE OUT AN EYE. GUESS IT'S JUST MY LUCK.

THE IRONY OF WAKING UP IN A MED-CENTER NAMED AFTER OLD "PARANOIA IN CHIEF" IS A BITTER PILL TO SWALLOW, SEEING AS SHE BLABBED ABOUT CLASS ONE AND MADE MY LIFE EVEN MORE HELLISH. CIVVIES ARE AN ODD BUNCH SEEING AS THEY HONOR HER FOR "TELLING THE TRUTH"--CONVENIENTLY IGNORING THE FACT THAT SHE WAITED UNTIL AFTER THE WAR--WELL, THE BIG WAR--WAS OVER BEFORE SHE TOLD THE "TRUTH". OLD HAG RAN ONI FOR DAMN NEAR FIFTY YEARS, THEN HANDED IT OVER TO HER PET OFFICER AND WIPED HER HANDS CLEAN OF THE MESS--LEAVING THE REST OF US IN THE DIRT, INCLUDING THOSE OF US WHO GOT DRAGGED IN KICKING AND SCREAMING. LEFT ME WITH PEOPLE IN ONI---DIRTY ONI, MY DO I HATE HAVING TO USE THAT PHRASE SO OFTEN---WHO HATE ME BECAUSE I SCREWED WITH THEM (BROKE THEIR REGS DURING THE WAR, PULLED ILLEGAL SHIT TO KEEP MY KIDS SAFE) AND PEOPLE WHO HATE ME BECAUSE I WAS COMPLICIT IN A PROGRAM MODELED AFTER HALSEY'S---"CLEAN" ONI, WHO, BY THE WAY, HAVE FIGURED OUT THE TRUE ORIGINS BEHIND THE "ARES DETACHMENT" AND COME AFTER ME. NOT WITH THE FEROCITY OF THEIR ATTACK ON HALSEY, SINCE THEY REALIZE I WAS ROPED IN, BUT STILL WITH A PASSION.

AND SPEAKING OF ONI---"CLEAN" OR DIRTY, WHAT DOES IT MATTER, THEY BOTH HATE ME---THEY WASTED NO TIME USING MY, ERM, ACCIDENT TO WIPE THEIR HANDS CLEAN OFF ME. NOT AN HOUR AFTER I WOKE UP, AN OFFICER FROM THE OFFICE SHOWED UP INFORMING ME I'VE BEEN RELIEVED OF DUTY. DISCHARGED WITH FULL HONORS--BUT OH HEY, THAT PENSION I WAS SUPPOSED TO HAVE? CONVENIENTLY GONE. NOT THAT I CARE ABOUT THE MONEY--NEVER MADE ANYTHING ANYWAY. IF I'D CARED ABOUT THAT I'D HAVE BEEN A DAMNED GENETICIST AT SOME CORPORATE FIRM. THE FULL EFFECT OF MY DISCHARGE PROBABLY WON'T HIT TILL LATER--OR UNTIL I COME DOWN OF THESE PAINKILLERS--AND THEN I IMAGINE IT'LL BE MANAGEABLE. AFTER LOSING KIDS TO THEIR DAMN BUREAUCRATIC BULLSHIT, ONI KICKING ME OUT IS A LOVE TAP. IT'LL BE A SYSTEM SHOCK TO LOSE MY ABILITY TO KEEP TABS ON THE KIDS, BUT IT'LL BE A LONG TIME BEFORE I'M OUT OF HERE ANYWAY. AS FAR AS THE HOSPITAL IS CONCERNED, I'M A VET, AND THAT MEANS A FULL PSYCH WORK UP BEFORE I'M OUT. AT LEAST THAT'S ONE GOOD THING IN THE WORLD TO POINT OUT--THAT THE CIVVIES STILL CARE ABOUT US.

MAY 25TH, 2557

I WOKE UP TODAY WITH A MESSAGE THAT WAS A BLAST FROM THE PAST. LASZLO HEARD ABOUT MY ATTEMPT TO OFF MYSELF AND RESPONDED WITH SURPRISING QUICKNESS. THE MESSAGE WASN'T NEITHER SOME LONG TIRADE NOR A SHORT, "YOU CAN DO IT" BATCH OF NONSENSE LIKE THE HOSPITAL STAFF ALL SEEM TO BE GIVING. IT WAS JUST RIGHT, AND JUST WHAT I NEEDED. THE HOSPITAL STAFF DON'T REALLY HAVE AN IDEA OF WHAT I'M GOING THROUGH, AND I OF COURSE CAN'T TELL THEM. BUT LASZLO...HE KNEW. HE UNDERSTOOD. AND HE'S BEEN HERE BEFORE, APPARENTLY: HE NEARLY PUT A ROUND IN HIMSELF RIGHT AFTER AUGMENTATION.

I WAS SHOCKED, AT FIRST. I HAD NEVER EVEN SUSPECTED HE'D BEEN THAT FAR GONE. IN HINDSIGHT, I'M ASHAMED AT MYSELF FOR NOT HAVING SEEN IT. I MIGHT HAVE BEEN WRAPPED UP IN MY OWN GRIEF (OR MORE ACCURATELY, TO WRAPPED UP IN TRYING TO BURY MYSELF IN WORK TO PUT OF MY GRIEF) BUT THAT DOESN'T EXCUSE ME. NOT AT ALL. I FELT GUILTY, BUT IT WAS...A GOOD GUILT. AN EMPOWERING GUILT. FOR ONE, IT GOT ME OUT OF MY OWN HEAD, OUT OF THE ENDLESS REPLAYING OF THE SAME OLD TIRED ISSUES. BUT IT ALSO MADE ME REALIZE THAT I'D FAILED THEN, AND THAT I OWE LASZLO. SO WHEN HE ASKED ME IN HIS MESSAGE TO TRY AND MOVE PAST IT, I DECIDED I NEEDED TOO. FOR HIM, IF NOTHING ELSE. I'VE GOT A PAST FAILURE TO MAKE UP FOR AND I'LL BE DAMNED IF I DON'T FOLLOW THROUGH. DOCTOR'S HERE'LL PROBABLY SAY THAT'S A UNHEALTHY WAY TO APPROACH IT BUT...TO HELL WITH THEM. WHATEVER WORKS.

SO I'M DOING AS LASZLO ASKED. NO MORE WALLOWING IN SELF PITY. NO MORE LETTING MYSELF SLACK OFF. I'M MESSAGING LASZLO (DISCRETELY, IN THE OLD METHOD) ASKING FOR HIM TO USE HIS CONNCECTIONS TO GET INFORMATION I NO LONGER HAVE ACCESS TOO---IN ORDER TO DIG INTO RICKY'S SHOOTER. STONEWALL OR NOT, I'M FINDING THE BASTARD. I'M HITTING THE HOSPITAL RECOVERY SUITE AND GETTING MYSELF PHYSICALLY READY. AND I'VE MESSAGED ROGER, CONNOR, EVEN GOLD TEAM. THE MESSAGES ARE EQUAL PARTS CATCHING UP ON OLD TIMES AND BUSINESS DETIALS. GOLD HAS ALREADY GOTTEN BACK TO ME, AND JACKY HAD ADVICE THAT WAS...UNEXPECTEDLY POIGNANT.

I BELIEVE SHE HAS BEEN THROUGH HER OWN SPELL OF DISILLUSIONMENT, BECAUSE SHE CUT TO THE HEART OF THE ISSUE. SHE TOLD ME SHE BELIEVE'S I'VE RUN OUT OF THINGS TO BELIEVE IN, AND THAT'S WHAT, ESSENTIALLY NEEDS FIXING. "I DON'T CARE WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN, COLONEL", SHE SAID, "JUST THAT YOU FIND SOMETHING TO BELIEVE IN." LASZLO REALLY DID TEACH THE KIDS WELL. THEY'RE WISE IN THEIR OWN PECULIAR WAY.

MAY 27TH, 2557

I'M FINALLY OUT OF THE HOSPITAL, ON MY WAY HOME. MY RELEASE WAS DELAYED DUE TO A FEW BEAURCRATIC SNAFUS. SEEMS ONI CREATED A NICE FAT HELPING OF CONFUSION WHEN THEY DROPPED MY PENSION BUT "HONORABLY" DISCHARGED ME. MILITARY INSURANCE FELL THROUGH, AND IT WAS A HELL OF A TIME SORTING IT OUT. THE HOSPITAL WENT TO AN EXTRORDINARY AMOUNT OF TROUBLE KEEPING ME ALIVE---SAVING GUNSHOT VICTIMS IS NEVER A SMALL EFFORT, AND PEOPLE WHO GET SHOT IN THE HEAD ARE NATURALLY EVEN TOUGHER---SO THEY'RE UNDERSTANDABLY INSISTENT THEY GET THEIR DUES. ULTIMATELY, IT TOOK A WHOLE LOT OF NAGGING ONI THROUGH OLD CHANNELS TO GET THEM TO RELENT. HAD THE NICE SIDE AFFECT OF GIVING ME BACK MY PENSION. HANDY. ALL VERY ENTERTAININGLY MUNDANE, NEXT TO WHAT I'VE BEEN DOING WITH THE REST OF MY SPARE TIME.

I'M BACK UP TO MY OLD TRICKS, PROVING THAT NO SKILL LEARNED EVER GOES TO WASTE. THE HIT ORDER FOR RICKY IS BURIED UNDER A MOUNTAIN OF STONEWALLS, BUT I'M GIVING IT MY DAMNDEST. I'VE GOT LAZSLO RUNNING SEARCHES ON EVERY LEAD I CAN TURN UP AND EVERY IDEA HE GETS ON HIS OWN. WHAT HE DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT RICKY'S DEATH, I'VE SINCE TOLD HIM. HE'S EQUALLY FIRED UP, AND SEEING AS HE CAN'T EXACTLY DEVOTE HIS TIME TO HUNTING DOWN THE KILLER HIMSELF (WHAT WITH SAVIOR AND HIS DISPARATE SPECIAL FORCES MISSIONS), HE'S BEEN EVEN MORE HELPFUL THAN USUAL. AND HE'S USUALLY THE MOST HELPFUL PERSON AROUND.

IT'LL BE A LONG SLOG. I KNOW THAT ALREADY. THERE'S LAYERS UPON LAYERS HERE TO PEAL BACK. LOOKING AT THE OUTERMOST ONES, I HAVE A SINKING FEELING I MAY BE MONTHS, LIKELY YEARS AWAY. GIVING UP IS HARDLY AN OPTION, HOWEVER. AND IF ONI DECIDES THEY DON'T LIKE ME POKING AROUND, THEY CAN COME AND GET ME. I ALREADY TRIED TO KILL MYSELF AND THAT NOTABLY DIDN'T SUCCEED. I'D LIKE TO SEE THEM DO BETTER.

JULY 8TH, 2557

MY SEARCH FOR THE ELUSIVE SHOOTER, STILL IN IT'S INFANCY, WAS SIDETRACKED TODAY. I RECEIVED ANOTHER MESSAGE FROM GOLD, THIS TIME OUT OF THE BLUE. I'M NOT SURE IF THEY WERE LOOKING FOR ADVICE AND THOUGHT I'D HAVE SOMETHING TO CONTRIBUTE, WERE WORRIED ABOUT ME AND WANTED ME TO FEEL INCLUDED, OR JUST NEEDED TO VENT TO SOMEONE WHO WASN'T SPARTAN BRANCH OR A SPOOK. WHATEVER THE REASON, THEY COMPOSED A COMMUNIQUE AND ROUTED IT DIRECT TO MY PERSONAL COMM CHANNEL. THEY WERE USING A VARIATION OF THE ENCODING METHOD LASZLO TAUGHT ME YEARS AGO---I ASSUME HE MAY HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN THEIR TUTELAGE AS WELL.

THEIR MESSAGE WAS A BIT OF A RAMBE, LIKE THEY WEREN'T SURE WHAT THEY WANTED TO SAY---SO THEY INCLUDED JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING. THEY FILLED ME IN ON THE SPECIFICS OF THEIR OPERATING DETAILS FOR THE LAST FEW MONTHS, GOING OVER WHAT'S HAPPENED SINCE THEY CAME ABOARD LATE LAST YEAR. APPARENTLY, THEY WERE PART OF AN INVESTIGATIVE PARTY TO THE SURFACE OF A NEWLY DISCOVERED HALO RING (INSTALLATION 03), AND HAD THE PLEASURE OF INFILTRATING THE RING'S LIBRARY TO RETRIEVE IT'S ACTIVATION INDEX. NO FLOOD, THEY SAID---BUT PLENTY OF FORERUNNER DEFENSE SYSTEMS THAT DIDN'T WANT AN INDEX ACCESSED WITHOUT AUTHORIZATION OR AN EMERGENCY. SHORTLY AFTER RETRIEVAL, THOUGH, THEY GOT PULLED BACK UP TO INFINITY ON SHORT NOTICE AND THE WHOLE SHIP MADE AN EARLY DEPARTURE.

THAT'S WHERE THINGS GET REALLY INTERESTING. THE INFINITY, USING SOME MYSTERIOUS SET OF COORDINATES THEY APPARENTLY ACQUIRED AT INSTALLATION 03, LOCKED ONTO THE DISTRESS SIGNAL OF THE FORWARD UNTO DAWN---THE SHIP [S-117] DISSAPEARED ON. BEFORE THEY KNEW IT, GOLD TOLD ME THEY WERE SUCKED INTO A FORERUNNER PLANET, AND ENGAGED BY BOTH COVENANT REMNANT AND SOME SORT OF FORERUNNER DEFENSE SYSTEM THEY CALLED "PROMETHEANS". THINGS WENT TO SHIT AND GOLD TOLD ME THE ENTIRE INFINITY WENT DOWN. THEY WERE ASSIGNED TO A SCOUTING RUN AND NEARLY GOT LEFT BEHIND. APPARENTLY, IN THE MEANTIME WHILE THEY WERE MAKING THEIR WAY BACK TO THE SHIP, [S-117] HIMSELF APPEARED BACK FROM THE DEAD AND CLEARED THE WAY FOR INFINITY TO ESCAPE BACK TO EARTH.

THE WHOLE THING INTERESTS ME FOR A NUMBER OF REASONS. FIRST OF ALL, A CLOSER LOOK AT THE ORDER OF BATTLE ON INFINITY IS ENLIGHTENING---SPARTAN MAY BE IT'S OWN BRANCH, BUT IT SOUNDS LIKE IT'S OFFICERS ARE STILL COWTOWING TO THE NAVY. THAT MEANS THAT IT WILL DEFINITELY COWTOW TO ONI, AND MAKES IT CLEAR THAT THE OFFICE IS BY NO MEANS GOING TO BE HAVING A SHORTAGE OF SPARTANS. THE SECOND THING OCCURED TO ME WHEN I GLANCED AT MY MOST RECENT SET OF NOTES ON MY SHOOTER SEARCH. THE MAN WHO KILLED RICKY HAD TO BE AUGMENTED---NO NORMAL HUMAN COULD HAVE EVADED GOLD---AND LIKELY A SPARTAN. WITH ALL THE SPARTANS ON INFINITY, SUCH AN INDIVIDUAL MIGHT BE ABLE TO DISSAPEAR. I OF COURSE IMMEDIATELY CHECKED THE ROSTERS, AND NO ONE WHO FIT THE PROFILE OF THE SHOOTER POPPED UP. BUT I'LL BE KEEPING AN EYE ON INFINITY REGARDLESS.

AUGUST 21ST, 2557

2558
AFTER MONTHS OF DEAD ENDS AND SNAIL'S PACE PROGRESS, WITH DAMN NEAR NO LEADS ON THE IDENTITY OF THE SHOOTER (OR EVEN WHAT SECTION ZERO GROUP PULLED THE HIT) I FINALLY CAUGHT A MASSIVE BREAK TODAY. I'VE BEEN PAYING CLOSE ATTENTION TO OPERATION: VORAUSSICHT, HAVING LASZLO FORWARD ME EVERY SINGLE BIT OF RELEVANT INFORMATION HE CAN FIND ON IT'S PROCEEDINGS. PICKINGS HAVE BEEN UNDERSTANDABLY SLIM; IT'S A TOP-SECRET INVESTIGATION INTO THE EXCESSES OF THE OFFICE DURING THE WAR (IT'S GOT PLENTY OF MATERIAL TO CHOOSE FROM). LASZLO IS NOTHING IF NOT RESOURCEFUL THOUGH, AND HE'S MANAGED TO SECURE A FEW PIECES OF INTEL ON IT HERE AND THERE. SOMETIMES NOTHING MORE THAN PARTS OF AUDIO RECORDINGS BETWEEN INVESTIGATORS, BUT RARELY HE'LL GET NEARLY FULL MISSION REPORTS.

THIS TIME IT'S THE LATTER. ACCORDING TO THE INFO LAZ FORWARDED TO ME, A VORAUSSICHT SUBORDINATE INVESTIGATOR CALLED "RAINFALL" RECENTLY CRACKED OPEN AN IMPRESSIVE, DECADE LONG CONSPIRACY CALLED OPERATION: BLUE NIGHTS. THE CONSPIRACY ITSELF MADE FOR INTERESTING READING ON IT'S OWN, BUT EVEN MORE NOTABLE WAS THE INVOLVEMENT OF THE SECTION ZERO FIELD INVESTIGATION TEAM. THE FIELD INVESTIGATION TEAM WAS ONE OF THE FEW TEAMS I THOUGHT WOULD HAVE OPERATIVES CAPABLE OF PULLING A HIT LIKE THE ONE ON RICKY, SO WHAT I FOUND WAS EVEN MORE TANTALIZING. A CROOKED OFFICER NAMED SKYHAWK (LIKELY JUST A PAWN OF CODENAME: CHAUCER, THE UNIT COMMANDER), INTERVENED ON BEHALF OF THE CONSPIRACY THROUGH AN AGENT NAMED CODENAME: EGOR. AND ACCORDING TO WHAT LASZLO SENT, EGOR IS A SIERRA. AN HONEST TO GOD TWO.

THERE'S NO NAME FOR EGOR, BUT WHAT THE VORAUSSICHT PEOPLE FOUND (OR WHAT LASZLO FOUND OF WHAT THEY FOUND) INDICATES HE WAS A LONG TIME TRIGGERMAN FOR SECTION ZERO---THE PERFECT PROFILE FOR RICKY'S KILLER. LASZLO HAS NO IDEA WHERE HE CAME FROM OR WHO HE ACTUALLY IS---ALL THE TWO'S HE KNOWS OF ARE ACCOUNTED FOR, AND NONE OF THE SUSPICIOUS DISSAPEARANCES DURING THE WAR HAVE AN ASSASSIN'S SKILLSET, BUT THE VORAUSSICHT PEOPLE WERE DAMNED CERTAIN EGOR IS A TWO. LASZLO SUGGESTED HE MIGHT PERHAPS BE A LEONIDAN, SNATCHED FROM TRAINING LIKE HIMSELF OR [S-012]. HE GOT SORT OF QUIET WHEN I ASKED WHO FROM HIS CLASS HAD APPROPRIATE SKILLS, DIED IN AUGMENTATION, AND COULD HAVE EASILY BEEN MISSED---I THINK HE MAY HAVE KNOWN A LITTLE MORE THAN HE LET ON, WHICH IS WORRYING FOR A WHOLE HOST OF REASONS.

WHO HE IS WILL COME IN TIME, HOWEVER. IN THE MEANTIME, I'M TAKING EVERY RESOURCE I HAVE AND DIGGING INTO WHERE EGOR IS NOW. LASZLO'S INFO INDICATED HE WAS CAPTURED BY VORAUSSICHT ON A RAID. IF ONI HAS HIM IN HOLDING, I'M GOING TO FIND HIM.

FEBRUARY 4TH, 2558

IT'S STILL SLOW GOING, BUT THE VORAUSSICHT BREAK HAS DEFINITELY CRACKED OPEN MY INVESTIGATION. SINCE I REALIZED THAT RICKY'S SHOOTER WAS EGOR, I'VE BEEN DIGGING INTO SECTION ZERO AT EVERY CHANCE I CAN GET. LASZLO IS STILL HELPING, BUT MORE AND MORE, I'M DOING THINGS MYSELF. I USED MY OLD ACCESS CODES TO BUILD A DISPOSABLE SET OF ENCRYPTION CRACKING ALGORITHMS, AND AM ATTACKING FILES AS HARD AS I CAN WITHOUT GIVING MYSELF AWAY. IT'S A BIT LIKE PLAYING WITH FIRE, SEEING AS IF I'M CAUGHT NOW, I'M JUST A CIVILIAN AND PUNISHABLE IN WAYS AN ONI AGENT IS NOT, BUT THE INFORMATION I'M PULLING IS TOO GOOD TO REFUSE.

IT'S A BIT LIKE A JIGSAW PUZZLE, BUT THE YEARS I SPENT TRYING TO TRACK DOWN RACHEL AND BALDUIN---AND THE MISTAKES I WAS MADE AWARE OF AFTER THE FACT---WERE AN EXCELLENT LEARNNG EXPERIENCE. IT'S ALL ABOUT GETTING YOUR HANDS ON ENOUGH INFORMATION, SIFTING THROUGH TO FIND THE LINKS, AND THEN MAKING THE CONNECTIONS. SINCE I'VE STARTED DIGGING, I'VE PULLED UP INTEL THAT POINTS TO ONI SECTION ZERO HIDING EGOR, BUT NOT KEEPING HIM LOCKED UP. A SUIT OF WETWORK-CLASS MJOLNIR GEN 2 ARMOR WAS SHIPPED TO THE UNSC SOPHOCLES IN VERY EARLY FEBRUARY, AND CHATTER HAS PICKED UP BETWEEN AGENTS IDENTIFIED AS "SUBMARINE" AND "HANNIBAL". ALL OF IT ENCRYPTED, BUT STILL ENLIGHTENING, IN IT'S OWN WAY: SOME MORE DIGGING HAS REVEALED HANNIBAL TO BE A TASKING AGENT AT THE PERSONAL BECK AND CALL OF OLYCINDUS, AND SUBMARINE TO BE ONE OF THE TOP SECTION ZERO EXTRACTION AGENTS. A NUMBER OF SECTION ZERO SHIPS HAVE ALSO BEEN MOVING TO STRANGE LOCATIONS NOT NORMALLY ASSOCIATED WITH ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES, LIKE THEY'RE FORMING A CHAIN.

MY ASSESSMENT? ZERO CAPTURED EGOR, BUT THEY DON'T HOLD HIM PARTICULARLY RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ILLEGAL ACTIONS HE UNDERTOOK FOR BLUE NIGHTS. THEY RECOGNIZE JUST HOW VALUABLE AN ASSET HE IS, SO THEY'RE KEEPING HIM EQUIPPED AND READY TO DEPLOY. BUT I ALSO THINK THAT LASZLO WAS RIGHT, AND THAT EGOR IS A LEONIDAN---SO THEY WANT TO KEEP HIM SECRET FROM OTHER SERVICE BRANCHES AND THE UEG, MAYBE EVEN THE REST OF ONI. IT'D BE VERY EMBARRASSING FOR THEM TO ADMIT THEY WERE DIRTY, WHEN THEY WERE SUPPOSED TO BE THE ONES ENFORCING THE RULES. I FIGURE THAT'S WHAT THE SHIP'S ARE FOR; IF ANYONE ELSE GETS TO CLOSE TO EGOR, THEY TRANSFER HIM FROM ONE SHIP TO ANOTHER, TO QUICKLY FOR ANYONE TO KEEP TRACK. MY NEXT MOVE WILL BE TO SEE IF I CAN FIGURE OUT WHERE HE IS NOW, BASED ON THOSE SHIP POSITIONS. NOT GOING TO HOLD MY BREATH AND ASSUME IT'LL WORK, BUT IT'S THE BEST IDEA I'VE GOT RIGHT NOW.

FEBRUARY 19TH, 2558

SECRET CORRESPONDENCE 3CLK-7MXJ
ENRYPTION CODE: FOXTROT-12

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: LT (0-3) ALPHA YANKEE 

TO: CPT (0-6) GOLF SIERRA 

'''SUBJECT: TONE THINGS DOWN '''

I KNOW HOW MUCH YOU HATE COMPLAINING, BUT SOMETHING HAS GOT TO BE DONE ABOUT LIMA-108. HE MAY THINK THE RECRUITS CAN TAKE IT, BUT HE’S PUSHING THEM TOO HARD, TOO FAST. THEY’RE GOING TO SNAP, AND THEN THEY’LL BE USELESS FOR THE PROGRAM AND FOR THE WAR. HE SEEMS TO THINK THAT THEY’RE EQUAL TO THE OLD CLASS I AND IIS, AND HE’S BADLY MISTAKEN ON BOTH COUNTS. THEY’RE GOOD, REALLY, REALLY GOOD, BUT NOT THAT GOOD. ALMOST NO ONE IS. THERES A FEW EXCEPTIONS, A FEW LIKE CHARLIE HOTEL WOULD HAVE PICKED, BUT THEY’RE THE EXCEPTION RATHER THAN THE RULE. SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE TO STOP HIM. I KNOW HE THINKS HES DOING WHAT’S BEST, BUT HE’S GOING TO MAKE THINGS WORSE. BELIEVE ME. I DID MY TIME ON III AND I KNOW WHAT KIDS LIKE THESE CAN TAKE. IT’S TOO MUCH. MAKE HIM TONE THINGS DOWN, OR I WILL.

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

SECRET CORRESPONDENCE 3CLK-6CGS
ENRYPTION CODE: DELTA-29

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: CPT (0-3) LIMA KILO 

TO: COL (0-6) GOLF SIERRA 

'''SUBJECT: PROJECT ARES '''

SIR, IT'S ME AGAIN. TRAINING IS RUNNING SMOOTHLY NOW. I APOLOGIZE FOR MY MISTAKE OF PUSHING THE RECRUITS TOO FAR; I GUESS SOME PART OF ME JUST ASSUMED THAT "IF THEY'RE TOUGH ENOUGH, THEY WON'T FAIL WHAT'S YET TO COME". THAT JUDGEMENT WAS IN ERROR. SO YOU CAN GET THAT PSYCHE EVALUATION PANEL OFF OF ME NOW. THERE'S NO NEED FOR A PREMATURELY EARLY EXAMINATION.

ANYWAY, TRAINING IS RUNNING SMOOTHLY AND THEY'RE ALL DOING WELL. WHAT WORRIES ME IS THE AUGMENTATION PROCEDURES COMING UP LATER NEXT YEAR. WHY DO WE HAVE TO RELY ON SUCH OUTDATED PROCEDURES? ME TRAINING THESE RECRUITS RISK OF BEING ALL FOR NOTHING IF WE DON'T USE THE NEW ADVANCED ONES; NEW SPARTANS WON'T HELP IF THEY'RE DEAD OR IRREPAIRABLY WOUNDED. I UNDERWENT THOSE PROCEDURES, SO I KNOW WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT. I WAS CLOSER THAN YOU'D THINK TO DYING (CARDIAC VOLUME INCREASE ISN'T SOMETHING TO JOKE ABOUT, AND THAT'S COMING FROM ME, THE CLOWN OF THE II PROGRAM). THESE ARE MY MEN, AND I REFUSE TO LET THEM ALL DIE BECAUSE OF ONI BULLSHIT.

AND NOT JUST THE AUGMENTATIONS; WHAT'S THIS CRAP ABOUT "SEMI-POWERED INFILTRATION (SPI) ARMOR"? I TESTED IT BACK IN 2532, AND IT'S NOT SPARTAN-CLASS GEAR; AT MOST, IT'S ONI TRYING TO CUT THE COST OF EVERYTHING AT THE EXPENSE OF QUALITY. THEY WON'T SURVIVE FOR LONG OUT THERE WITHOUT PROPER EQUIPMENT, ESPECIALLY IF IT'S TRUE WHAT I HEAR THAT THEY'LL ALL BE SPLIT UP TEAM-WISE AND SPREAD THROUGHOUT THE UNSC COMMAND CHAIN ("TO PREVENT ALL UNITS FROM PERISHING AT ONCE"). USING MY ACCESS TO THE PROGRAM'S FILES, I FOUND THAT YOU ALL WERE NEGOTIATING A DEAL WITH RKD, THE DEVELOPERS OF THE HAYABUSA SUIT. IT HURTS THAT WE DIDN'T PURSUE THAT - SURE, IT LOOKS KINDA RIDICULOUS AND YOU SEE LITTLE WITH THE TINY VISOR, BUT AT LEAST IT'S AN EXCELLENT AND FULLY FUNCTIONAL SUIT. THE SPI IS JUST A FANCY ODST ARMOR WITH CHAMELEON CAPABILITIES THAT HARDLY WORK.

AND PLEASE, SIR, DON'T JUST REPLY WITH A "THERE'S NO MONEY AVAILABLE"; I WANT A REASON FOR WHY THAT'S SO. YOU'D THINK THERE WERE OTHER SPARTAN PROGRAMS GOING ON SIMULTANEOUSLY THAT SUCK UP ALL THE FUNDING LIKE A SPONGE. RICH AND THE REST OF ONI WANTS THEIR MAGICAL BULLET - BUT IT WON'T WORK IF THAT BULLET CAN'T ACTUALLY HIT THE ENEMY.

PS: HAVE SOMEBODY MONITOR [341]. I CAN'T PUT MY FINGER ON IT, BUT HE SEEMS TO BE HOMESICK, OR MAYBE JUST ADVENTEROUS, I DON'T KNOW; HE DOES SEEM LIKE HE ISN'T AS DEDICATED TO THE PROGRAM AS HE SHOULD. MIGHT BE MY IMAGINATION, OF COURSE, BUT FOR ONCE I'D LIKE NOT TO BE LAZY ABOUT THE MATTER AND BE A STEP AHEAD. JUST IN CASE.

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

ENRYPTION CODE: YORK-DELTA-24

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: COL (0-6) GOLF SIERRA 

TO: CPT (0-3) LIMA KILO 

'''SUBJECT: RE: PROJECT ARES '''

I'M SORRY ABOUT THE PYSCHE PANNEL, BUT BELIEVE ME, IT WASN'T MY IDEA. ONI'S BEEN WATCHING US CLOSELY, BUT I HADN'T REALIZED HOW CLOSE UNTIL THEY INTERCEPTED A MESSAGE FROM ONE OF MY DIS AND WENT OVER MY HEAD. HE WAS THREATENING TO TAKE MATTERS INTO HIS OWN HANDS, BUT SECTION III GOT THERE FIRST. IT WAS A HELL OF A TIME KEEPING THEM FROM DROPPING YOU FROM THE PROGRAM. THEY REALLY DON’T TRUST YOU. I’D BE VERY, VERY INTERESTED TO FND OUT WHY.

I’M GLAD TO HEAR THE TRAINING IS GOING WELL, BUT YOUR CONCERNS, UNFORTUNAELY, ARE OUT OF MY CONTROL. AS MUCH AS YOU HATE IT, THE PROBLEM INEVITABLY COMES DOWN TO FUNDING. I’VE DONE EVERYTHING I CAN---AND I MEAN EVERYTHING; STRIPMINING REBEL BANK ACCOUNTS, FALSE CHARITY CAUSES, EVEN BORDERLINE FRAUD---TO GET THE MONEY, AND I SIMPLY CAN’T. BELIEVE ME, I UNDERSTAND THE RISKS OF THE PROCEDURES AND HAVE MY OWN TORMENT’S ABOUT THEM, MY OWN GUILT. YOU MAY BE THE ONE TRAINING THEM, BUT I WAS ONE WHO HAD TO SELECT THEM, AND APPROVE THE ORDER TO HAVE SOME OF THEM KIDNAPPED.

AND BELIEVE ME, I’VE TRIED EVERYTHING POSSIBLE TO GET THEM OUTFITTED AS PROPER SPARTANS. BUT THE MONEY SIMPLY ISN’T THERE. RKD WANTED TOO MUCH FOR THE SUITS, AND LORD KNOWS MJOLNIR IS TOO EXPENSIVE. THE CURRENT SUIT COSTS MORE THAN AN ENTIRE BATTLEGROUP AND IT’S HARD TO HIDE THAT KIND OF MONEY WHEN THE WAR IS PRACTICALLY ON ERINDANUS’S DOORSTEP. WE JUST LOST THE ENTIRE STALLION AND NAPOLEON SYSTEMS LAST YEAR, AND THE COVENANT AREN’T SLOWING DOWN. SPI ISN’T GOOD---BUT IT’S ALL WE HAVE. THE MONEY HAS ALL BUT DRIED UP. MOST OF OUR DIS, MEDICS, AND SCIENTISTS ARE WORKING PRO BONO, AND THOSE THAT AREN’T HAVE PAYCHECKS THE SIZE OF A FRY COOKS. IT’S COME DOWN TO EITHER THE AUGMENTS OR HAYABUSA, AND THAT CHOICE IS ALL TO CLEAR.

THERES MORE HERE AT WORK THAN YOU KNOW, AND I SUSPECT THERE EVEN MORE THAN I DO. ONI’S OPERATIONS ARE A BLACK HOLE, WITH NO ANSWERS FOR ANYONE. I HAVEN’T BEEN ABLE TO CONFIRM ANY OTHER HIGH PRIORITY SIERRA PROGRAMS, BUT THEIR EXISTENCE WOULDN’T SURPRISE ME. I’VE HEARD WHISPERS OF A THIRD SIERRA THREE CLASS, AND YOU KNOW HOW ACKERSON LOVE TO SUCK UP FUNDING. ONI DROPPED ME INTO THIS JOB FOR REASONS I MAY NEVER TOTALLY GRASP, BUT I’M THE ONE KEEPING IT AFLOAT NOW. I CAN’T PERFORM MIRACLES.

AS FOR [S-341], I’LL HAVE A LITTLE CHAT WITH HIM AND ORDER DELTA JULIET TO KEEP A CLOSER EYE ON HIM. WE ALWAYS KNEW WE MIGHT GET ONE OR TWO CANDIDATES WHO WERE A LITTLE MORE “INDEPENDENT” THAN THE REST. IF ANYTHING HAPPENS TO MAKE YOUR SUSPICIONS GROW, KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON HIM. AUGMENTATION IS COMING UP, AND THERES SOME EVIDENCE THAT [S-023], [S-122], [S-141], [S-052] AND [S-003] (ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF ONI’S INABILITY TO KEEP THEIR TAGS STRAIGHT) MIGHT HAVE HAD THEIR MENTAL PROCESSES INTERRUPTED BY IT. THE AUGMENTATION PROCEDURES ARE NEVER AS LINEAR AS WE THINK; THERE ARE ALWAYS UNEXPECTED SIDE AFFECTS.

P.S. ONE OF THE DI’S MENTIONED THAT THE RIVALRY BETWEEN TAN AND GOLD MAY BE GETTING OUT OF HAND. COULD YOU LOOK INTO THIS, IF YOU HAVE ENOUGH TIME? I DON’T WANT ANOTHER [S-144]/[S-077] INCIDENT HAPPENING DURING OUR TRAINING. PARALLEL TRAINING REGIMES COULD VERY WELL PRODUCE PARALELL PROBLMES.

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

ENRYPTION CODE: VICTOR-DELTA-25

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: CPT (0-3) LIMA KILO 

TO: COL (0-6) GOLF SIERRA 

'''SUBJECT: RE: RE: PROJECT ARES '''

I GUESS SO; IF ONI DISCOVERS THAT YOU LOOK IN AN UNEXPECTED DIRECTION THEY START CHECKING IF YOU'RE MESSED UP IN THE HEAD. THEN AGAIN, I MIGHT BE A BIT HARDER TO PREDICT THAN OTHER IIs, WHAT WITH ME BEING ONE OF THE LEAST INDOCTRINATED OF US ALL. GUESS I SHOULD'VE EXPECTED RICH TO ACT THAT WAY. I'M AFRAID I CAN'T DISCUSS WITH YOU WHY THEY DON'T TRUST ME (IN THE CASE THEY'D INTERCEPT THIS MESSAGE TOO), I'M SORRY. EVEN MORE SO SINCE YOU'RE ONE OF THE FEW OFFICERS I ACTUALLY LIKE. I MEAN, NOT IN THAT WAY - THERE'S SOME GOOD-LOOKING NURSES STATIONED NOT FAR FROM MY QUARTERS FOR THAT...ER, SORRY, ACCIDENTALLY TURNED BACK TO MY OLD SELF. WON'T HAPPEN AGAIN. I HOPE. MOVING ALONG...

IT STILL PISSES ME OFF, THAT ONI WON'T GIVE WHAT WE REALLY NEED, WHETHER IT BE BETTER PROCEDURES OR SUITS. AND IT MAKES ME WISH EVEN MORE THAT I WASN'T AN ONI AGENT. BUT MOST OF ALL, IT REMINDS ME OF THE OTHER IIs - MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS. AT MOMENTS LIKE THIS, WHEN I TRAIN THESE RECRUITS OR PONDER ON THEIR FATES, I KEEP THINKING ABOUT THEM. HOW I MISS THEM. [012]. [062]. [051]. CHARLIE HOTEL. FOXTROT MIKE. HELL, I EVEN MISS THE BASTARD [144]. AND HE SPENT MUCH OF HIS TIME FORCING HIMSELF NOT TO BEAT MY FACE IN. I KEEP SEEING ALL OF THEIR FACES IN THESE RECRUITS; EVERY TIME [338] MAKES AN EXTRAORDINARY HEADSHOT, I THINK OF [058]. EVERY TIME I LOOK AT [343] I SEE [087]'S FIREY WILLPOWER IN HER EYES. AND THEN I START THINKING ABOUT THE ONES WHO NEVER MADE IT. I DON'T WANT TO GO THROUGH THAT AGAIN. SURELY YOU CAN UNDERSTAND THAT? BUT I AGREE, IF WE CAN DO ANYTHING, FIX THE PROCEDURES; WE'LL JUST HAVE TO HAVE FAITH THAT THEY CAN WORK IN THOSE SUITS.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE:____|BUT I MIGHT CHECK BACK WITH RKD, THEIR COMPLETED PROTOTYPES. OFF THE GRID, OFF COURSE. MAYBE WE COULD ARRANGE FOR BETTER EQUIPMENT FOR AT LEAST ONE TEAM.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

YES, I REMEMBER ACKERSON; HE AND DOC'S ALWAYS COMPETED FOR FUNDING. WOULDN'T SURPRISE ME IF HE HAS SOMETHING RUNNING. BUT IT DOESN'T MAKE SENSE THAT HE'D HAVE TWO ONGOING PROGRAMS AT ONCE ON HIS OWN; HE'S THE TYPE TO PUT EVERY EFFORT TO MAKE ONE PROJECT PERFECT (OR AT LEAST PERFECT ENOUGH FOR HIS SUPERIORS SO HE GETS HIS MONEY, THE SNAKE). CAN'T BELIEVE I'D SAY THIS, BUT MAYBE IT'D HAVE BEEN GOOD TO HAVE HIM ON THE PROJECT - SOMEHOW HE ALWAYS SEEM TO GET THE MONEY REGARDLESS OF THE PROJECTS HE NEED THEM FOR, UNLESS THEY CONFLICT DIRECTLY WITH HALSEY'S. BTW, IT'S A SHAME YOU CAN'T DO MIRACLES; IT'D BE VERY CONVENIENT :D

I'LL DO WHAT I CAN. HE'S ONE OF OUR PRECIOUS "CHOSEN" TOO, YOU KNOW. AT LEAST HE DOESN'T SEEM AS WEAK-MINDED AS [312] (I'VE ALREADY UNDERTAKEN EFFORTS TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT HIM, JUST SO HE DOESN'T SNAP IN THE FIELD; I'LL INFORM YOU IF I NEED MORE ASSETS FOR IT).

I ALWAYS JUST SAW THE GOLD/TAN RIVALRY LIKE FRIENDLY COMPETITION, BUT MAYBE YOU'RE RIGHT. I'LL TALK TO THEM ONE BY ONE TO CALM THEM DOWN.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|MAYBE, IF WE GET OUR HANDS ON BETTER SUITS, WE SHOULD LET THE COMPETITION FOR TOP HONORS AT THE END OF TRAINING DETERMINE WHICH TEAM GETS THEM? I DON'T LIKE THAT SUGGESTION MYSELF, AS I DON'T TAKE FAVORITES, BUT I'M 100% SURE THAT WE CAN'T AQUIRE MORE ARMORS THAN THAT, SO WE'LL HAVE TO DETERMINE IT SOMEHOW. OR MAYBE I SHOULDN'T EXPECT YOU TO BE IN ON THIS WITH ME? OH, WELL, I'LL TRY IT WHETHER I HAVE YOUR APPROVAL OR NOT, SO I MAY AS WELL ASK YOU TO HELP ME. TAKE IT AS MY WAY OF SAYING "I TRUST YOU, SIR".|ENCRYPTER SECTION: END|

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

ENRYPTION CODE: WHISKY-MIKE-26

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: COL (0-6) GOLF SIERRA 

TO: CPT (0-3) LIMA KILO 

'''SUBJECT: RE: RE: RE; PROJECT ARES '''

YOUR ONLY TOO RIGHT ABOUT THE SPOOKS, BUT THERES NOT MUCH WE CAN DO EXCEPT TRY TO KEEP A LOW PROFILE. I’VE DONE MY BEST TO MAKE IT CLEAR TO THE DI’S TO LET YOU WORK, BUT WHO KNOWS IF IT WILL TURN OUT SUCCESSFUL. AS FOR RICH, YOU HAVE MUCH MORE EXPERIENCE WITH HIM THAN I DO, SO I’LL TAKE YOUR WORD FOR IT. AS FOR THE TRUST PROBLEMS, I’M SURE IT WILL MAKE FOR A VERY INTERESTING STORY OVER DRINKS SOMETIME DOWN THE ROAD IN THE FUTURE (THAT IS, IF WE HAVE A FUTURE). .|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|STILL KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE DI’S, THOUGH, NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS---I’M CONVINCED ONI HAS THEIR RANKS INFILTRATED COMPLETELY.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

AS FOR ONI’S EQUIPMENT PROBLEMS, I HAVE TO AGREE. THE AUGMENTATION PROCEDURES FOR THE SIERRA THREES ARE A HUNDRED TIMES MORE EFFECTIVE, BUT ONI ABSOLUTELY REFUSES TO SPRING FOR THE COST. IT’S SHORTSIDED AND DAMNED FOOLISH---FROM A FISCAL POINT OF VIEW, THEY’RE ACTUALLY GOING TO LOSE MONEY WITH THE OLDER PROCEDURES, BECAUSE OF THE INEVITABLE LOSS OF CANDIDATES---BUT THEY WON’T BUDGE. I’LL DO MY BEST, BUT I’M AFRAID ME MAY HAVE TO START PLANNING FOR THE WORST. BY MY PROJECTIONS, WE MAY BE FACING UP TO 50% LOSSES (MORE OPTIMISTIC PROJECTIONS PLACE LOSSES BETWEEN 35-45%, BUT AS LONG AS WE’RE BEING CYNICAL, WE MIGHT AS WELL GO ALL THE WAY), AND IT IS POSSIBLE ONI WON’T BE ABLE TO FUND US. UNLESS WE RECEIVE SOME SORT OF MAJOR WINDFALL, VERY SOON, WE’RE OUT OF LUCK. I DON’T LIKE IT ANY MORE THAN YOU DO, BUT WITHOUT AUGMENTATIONS, THEY’LL BE EVEN LESS LIKELY TO SURVIVE.

AS FOR THE SPI SUITS, I’M WONDERING IF WE SHOULD START TRAINING ON THEM SOONER RATHER THAN LATER. THE SIERRA THREES HAVE SHOWN GOOD RESULTS WITH EARLY EXPOSURE TO THEIR ARMOR SYSTEMS, AND THEY’VE BEEN PROVEN TO BE HIGHLY EFFECTIVE--WHEN THEY’RE NOT BEING WASTED ON SUICIDE MISSIONS. SPI IS CHEAP, AND WE’LL BE NEEDING THE SUITS ANYWAY, SO I SHOULD BE ABLE TO PROCURE THEM IMMEDIATELY, IF YOU SO CHOOSE. IN THE END, I’LL DEFER THE CHOICE TO YOU; YOU’RE THE EXPERT, AND I’M JUST THE GRUNT WHO GOT STUCK IN THE COMMAND SEAT. |ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE:____|ANYTHING YOU CAN GET WOULD BE CRITICAL. LIKE YOU SAID, KEEP IT OFF THE GRID, BUT IF A CHANCE PRESENTS ITSELF, GO FOR IT. EVEN IF THERE ARE RISKS. IF ONI FINDS OUT, I CAN PROBABLY GET AWAY WITH IT---I‘VE BEEN BREAKING THEIR RULES SINCE THE START OF THE PROJECT---AND THOSE SPARTANS NEED THE GEAR TOO MUCH TO PASS IT UP. IF WORSTS COMES TO WORST, I CAN ALWAYS TAKE THE FALL. I CAN LIVE WITH A DEAD END CAREER, BUT I CAN‘T LIVE WITH SENDING OUT MY TROOPS UNPREPARED.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

AS FOR ACKERSON, DID THEY REALLY? I NEVER MET EITHER OF THEM, BUT I’VE HEARD PLENTY OF STORIES SINCE JOINING THE PROGRAM. SOME OF THE OLDER DI’S ARE VERY CHATTY. IF HE’S AS GOOD AT GATHERING FUNDS AS YOU SAY HE IS, THEN IT WOULD HAVE BEEN NICE TO HAVE HIM ON THE PROJECT---BUT AT THE SAME TIME, I DON’T THINK I COULD LIVE WITH ANOTHER SPOOK IN MY LIFE. I’VE GOT ENOUGH ALREADY, THANK YOU VERY MUCH. AS FOR TWO PROGRAMS, I CAN’T BE SURE. I KNOW FOR A FACT HE’S IN CHARGE OF SIERRA THREE (HIGH LEVEL CLASSIFICATIONS ARE GREAT, IF SOMEWHAT DIFFICULT TO USE FOR A NEANDERTHAL LIKE ME), WHICH WOULD FILL THE ONE PROJECT QUOTA, BUT I’VE ALSO FOUND TRACES OF SOMETHING REFFERED TO AS “HEADHUNTER”. ONI’S PROJECT ROSTER, IS, LIKE I’VE MENTIONED, A BLACK HOLE, SO I HAVEN’T BEEN ABLE TO FIND ANYTHING ELSE, (AND LIKELY NEVER WILL). |ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE:____|IF YOU COULD SHED ANY LIGHT ON THE SITUATION, I‘D BE VERY INTERESTED.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

THANK YOU FOR HELPING OUT WITH HIM, THEN. I’M ALSO CONCERNED ABOUT [S-312], BUT THERES LITTLE I CAN DO. I READ THE LATEST PSYCHE REPORT AND IT DOESN’T LOOK GOOD. HE’S GOT THE SAME ATTACHMENT PROBLEMS AS SOME OF THE OTHERS ([S-338] AND [S-343] ARE PARTICULAR OFFENDERS, THOUGH [S-343] IS CONSIDERABLY HARDER TO READ) BUT THEY ARE MORE LOCALIZED, MORE EXTREME, AND POTENTIALLY MORE DANGEROUS. I DON’T KNOW WHAT RESOURCES I’LL BE ABLE TO PROVIDE, BUT I’LL DO EVERYTHING I CAN.

ITS NOT THAT I THINK THE EXACT PARRALLEL WILL HAPPEN---A FISTFIGHT BETWEEN TWO TRAINEES---BUT I AM WORRIED ABOUT AFTER TRAINING. MISTRUST LIKE THAT CAN FESTER AND GROW, IF LEFT ALONE. WE AREN’T PLANNING TO DEPLOY THEM ALL TOGETHER, BUT IF THEY HAPPEN TO RUN INTO EACH OTHER ON THE FIELD, THEY’LL NEED TO BE ABLE TO COOPERATE. |ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|I DON’T LIKE THE IDEA OF PITTING THE RECRUITS AGAINST EACH OTHER EITHER, BUT I CAN‘T ARGUE WITH IT‘ LOGIC. THE BEST TEAM SHOULD DEFINITELY RECEIVE THE BEST GEAR (IF WE CAN GET IT, THAT IS). WORK YOUR CONTACTS, AND SEE WHAT YOU CAN DO. I‘M NOT GOING TO TAKE A PASSIVE DENIAL STRATEGY OUT OF THIS; IF WE‘RE DOING IT, I‘M IN. IF THESE KIDS CAN GO THROUGH HELL FOR MY SAKE, I CAN RETURN THE FAVOR A LITTLE BIT.|ENCRYPTER SECTION: END|

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

ENRYPTION CODE: MIKE-MIKE-NOVEMBER

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: CPT (0-3) <font color=White>LIMA KILO 

TO: C0L (0-6) <font color=White>GOLF SIERRA 

'''SUBJECT: RE: RE: RE: RE; PROJECT ARES '''

DON'T WORRY ABOUT THE FUTURE, NOT YET ANYWAY. WE HAVE SOMETHING THE COVENANT DON'T HAVE - SPARTANs. WE'LL MAKE IT THROUGH THIS, AND 500 YEARS FROM NOW, ALL THIS WILL BE TOLD TO A HALF-SLEEPING CLASS OF SCHOOL CHILDREN BY A BORING HISTORY TEACHER. SO ALL WE CAN DO IS HAVE FAITH. AND YOU BETTER MAKE SURE YOU HAVE SOME CREDS TO BUY US DRINKS (A SPARTAN'S SALARY IS ABOUT AS GREAT AS A BONOBO CHIMPANZEE'S). <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE___|OH, I WILL, NO NEED TO WORRY.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

ON THE AUGMENTATIONS, I USUALLY PREFER NOT TO BE CYNICAL (I'D DARE SAY I WAS THE MOST OPTIMISTIC OF THE CHARLIE ONES), BUT THIS IS A SUBJECT WHERE I MAKE AN EXCEPTION. I'LL DO MY BEST TOO, PULL ANY FAVORS I HAVE AND CHECK MY CONTACTS TO SEE WHAT I CAN DO, BUT IT'D NEED NOTHING SHORT OF A MIRACLE TO PAY OFF. ANYWAY, I HAVE A FEELING WE NEED TO DROP THIS PARTICULAR TOPIC NOW, ONE OF THE DIs DROPPED A SUBTLE HINT AT LUNCH BREAK EARLIER TODAY THAT IT'S A SENSITIVE TOPIC; WE SHOULDN'T ANGER THE SPOOKS TOO BADLY THIS LATE INTO WAR, AIGHT? <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE_______|BUT MAN, SOME OF THESE DAYS I REALLY WISH I GOT TO KICK SOME OF THOSE GUYS IN THE GROIN, GROUND POUNDER STYLE. JUST ONCE, AND I'D BE HAPPY.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

YEAH, GET THE SUITS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE; IF THEY'RE GONNA HAVE TO USE THEM, WE MIGHT AS WELL MAKE SURE THEY BECOME ONE WITH IT BY GIVING THEM SOME MONTHS OF IN-SUIT TRAINING. RICH WOULDN'T HAVE ANY REASON TO COMPLAIN, IN FACT HE'LL PROBABLY ASSUME THAT IT'LL SPEED UP THE PROJECT'S COMPLETION. AND THANKS FOR PLACING YOUR FAITH IN ME LIKE THIS; YOU MAY BE A GRUNT, BUT YOU'RE AN OKAY GRUNT. NOT TO MENTION IT'S A PLUS THAT YOU'RE NOT CARRYING METHANE REBREATHERS UNLIKE OUR ALIEN FRIENDS. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE:_______|OOH, ANOTHER RULEBREAKER. FASCINATING. BUT I PREFER TO GET AWAY WITH RULEBREAKING (NOT THAT WE'RE TECHNICALLY BREAKING ANY RULES - THEY HAVEN'T SPECIFICALLY FORBIDDEN US FROM CHECKING UP RKD'S ARMOR SYSTEMS. I PREFER TO CALL IT "STRETCHING THE RULES"), SO I'LL BE CAREFUL. I'VE ALREADY MANAGED TO LEARN SOME THINGS THOUGH; TURNS OUT RKD DISASSEMBLED AT LEAST ONE OF THEIR PREVIOUS PROTOTYPES FOR PARTS, PROBABLY ONE OR TWO MORE TOO. BUT THEY HAVE A CONFERENCE BOOKED WITH THE ORDNANCE COMMITTEE. IF IT ISN'T TO SHOW OFF THEIR LATEST PROTOTYPE, I'LL EAT MY MJOLNIR. I'VE PULLED FAVORS WITHIN HIGHCOM TO GET A COUPLE OF CONTACTS INTO THE COMMITTEE BEFORE THAT CONFERENCE, SO WITH ANY LUCK WE CAN PROCURE IT. BUT THAT'S JUST ONE SUIT. I'LL KEEP MY EYES OPEN FOR OTHER OPPORTUNITIES (AS SOON AS I'VE FOUND A WAY TO GET PAST KALMIYA WITHOUT HER NOTICING, I'LL BE ABLE TO RECOVER DATA ON PROJECT MJOLNIR - EASIER SAID THAN DONE AS SHE WAS MADE FROM HALSEY'S BRAIN).|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

TRUE, I WOULDN'T WANT HIM IN MY LIFE EITHER; HE'S ABOUT AS SPOOKY AS SPOOKS COME. HARD TO BELIEVE HE WAS ONCE A GROUND POUNDER LIKE YOU. AS FOR HEADHUNTER, THAT'S SOMETHING I DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT (NOR AM I MEANT TO KNOW, I'LL BET). <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE:______|SADLY, I HAVE FEWER CLEARANCES THAN YOU, AND MY CONTACTS IN BETA-5 AREN'T CHATTY. HEADHUNTER HAS BEEN MENTIONED A COUPLE TIMES THOUGH, AS HAS AN ENIGMATIC FELLA KNOWN AS DRACULA THAT ACKERSON DOESN'T SEEM TO KNOW ABOUT. THEN THERE'S SOMETHING CALLED NOBLE (SEEMS TO BE CONNECTED TO SPECWARCOM - IT HAS FAR LESS CLEARANCES THAN ONI UNITS, SO MAYBE YOU COULD TAKE A PEEK?), WHICH MAY ALSO BE CONNECTED TO HEADHUNTER SOMEHOW. THEN THERE'S SOMEBODY CALLED AMBROSE. WOULD YOU HAPPEN TO KNOW MORE ABOUT HIM THAN ME? I HAVE A FEELING HE'S NOT REALLY PART OF LOGISTICS COMMAND AS HIS RECORD SAYS HE IS.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

343 IS A FIREY ONE, TRUE (LITERALLY SOMETIMES - I CAUGHT HER THE OTHER DAY PICKPOCKETING A LIGHTER OFF ONE OF THE DIs). BUT I THINK SHE WON'T BE ANY REAL TROUBLE. BUT I'M KEEPING EYES AND EARS OPEN AS ALWAYS, JUST IN CASE. THAT'S ABOUT THE ONLY THING ALL THESE YEARS IN COVERT OPS HAVE TAUGHT ME; TO ALWAYS BE VIGILANT.

YEAH, COOPERATION IS VITAL. WITH THEIR LACKING EQUIPMENT, THEY'LL NEED IT EVEN MORE THAN ME AND THE OTHER CHARLIE ONES. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|THANKS FOR BACKING ME. I WAS AFRAID FOR A MOMENT I WOULD HAVE ALL THE EXCITEMENT FOR MYSELF. OH, WELL, WE'LL DO OUR BEST RIGHT? EVEN IF WE DO GET CAUGHT AND END OUR DAYS POLISHING SHOES ON THE STREETS OF A BACKWATER PLANET LIKE MINISTER. OR, WELL, YOU'D END UP LIKE THAT; I'M A SUPERSOLDIER, SO I'M PRETTY VALUABLE. AT MOST, I GUESS I'D END UP WITH A CAT-2 COMMISSION AND START PUSHING PAPERS FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

ENRYPTION CODE: CHARLIE-TANGO-ROMEO

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: COL (0-6) <font color=White>GAMMA SIERRA 

TO: CPT (0-3) <font color=White>LIMA KILO 

'''SUBJECT: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE; PROJECT ARES '''

I ADMIRE YOUR OPTIMISM, CAPTAIN. I WORRY EVERY DAY ABOUT THIS DAMN WAR, ABOUT THE COVENANT. HOW SOON BEFORE THEY’RE AT REACH, AT EARTH? HOW SOON UNTIL WE’VE REALLY GOT OUR BACK AGAINST THE WALL? I CAN’T ANSWER THOSE QUESTIONS, AND IT KEEPS ME UP AT NIGHT. THINKING ABOUT THE FUTURE, AFTER THE WAR, IS A LUXURY I DON’T HAVE. I GUESS WHEN YOU’VE BEEN THROUGH AS MUCH AS YOU HAVE, YOU TEND TO VIEW THE WORLD FROM A BRIGHTER POINT OF VIEW. OR MAYBE YOUR JUST CHEERY. (THOUGH YOU’VE ALSO GOT TO WONDER, DID SCHOOLCHILDREN 500 YEARS AGO EVER DREAM SOMETHING LIKE THIS COULD HAPPEN?). I KNOW NO ONE FIFTY YEARS AGO COULD. AND WHAT DO YOU KNOW OF BORED SCHOOLCHILRDEN? I THOUGHT YOU SIERRA’S WERE ALL MODEL STUDENTS!

MAYBE YOUR GOOD NOT TO GET TOO CYNICAL, BUT THESE DAYS I JUST CAN’T HELP IT. IF IT’S NOT THE INTEL REPORTS ON OUR LATEST COLONY LOST, IT’S THE DAMN DREAMS I KEEP HAVING OF THE TRAINEES WHEN I FIRST PICKED THEM. UNSURPRISINGLY, MY DREAMS CONVIENTELY IGNORE ALL THE EASY CHOICES---TAKING THE KIDS FROM ABUSIVE FAMILIES OR HELLHOLE ORPHANAGES---AND CONTINOUSLY REPLAY THE IMAGES OF THE HAPPY, SMILING FAMILIES. I KNOW YOU CHARLIE ONES ARE ALL DEVOTED TO HALSEY, BUT I HAVE TO ADMIT THAT I HATE HER. I WISH SHE’D NEVER DREAMT UP THE IDEA OF THIS PROGRAM, SO THEY WOULDN’T HAVE CHOSEN ME. IT’S SELFISH AND TERRIBLE, BUT I CAN’T HELP IT. I GUESS I’LL LEAVE OPTIMISM FOR YOU, AND CYNICISM FOR ME. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|THE GROIN, SON? AND YOU CALL YOURSELF A GROUNDPOUNDER? THAT’S A WOMANS PUNCH, MY BOY. GO FOR THE JAW. IT AIN’T BUILT FOR LATERAL IMPACT.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

AS FOR THE SUITS, I’M ALREADY ON IT. RICH IS BEING A LITTLE FINICKY, BUT HE SHOULD COME THROUGH. IT’S NOT LIKE IT’S SOME UNEXPECTED EXPENSE; WE ALREADY KNEW AND ACCOUNTED FOR THE PRICE OF THE SUITS (WHICH, REALY, IS PRACTICALLY NONEXISTENT). HOPEFULLY, THE ORDER SHOULD BE IN WITHIN THE NEXT FEW WEEKS. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|I PREFER TO CALL IT AS IT IS, BUT I GUESS YOUR TECHNICALLY RIGHT. EVEN SO, IT’S NOT THE FIRST TIME I’VE GONE AGAINST ONI ON THIS PROJECT. DID YOU KNOW THAT WHEN I WAS INITIALLY INTERVIEWING THE CANDIDATES, THEY FORBID ME FROM TAKING ANY OF THEM ON THE SPOT, EVEN IF THEY WERE IN CRITICAL DANGER? DAMNED BURCREATIC BASTARDS. YOU CAN GUESS HOW LONG THAT RULE LASTED. AS FOR THE CONFERENCE, I‘LL LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR REPORT ON THAT. EVEN IF WE CAN ONLY GET ONE SUIT, IT‘S STILL BETTER THAN NOTHING. IT MIGHT PRESENT A CHALLENGE FOR A TEAM DYNAMIC, WITH ONE MEMBER GETTING AN ADVANCED SUIT AND THE REST BEING STUCK WITH SPI, BUT IT‘S BETTER THAN NOTHING. AS FOR KALMIYA, HOW DOES THAT ONE WORK? I THOUGHT THE AI PROCESS DESTROYED THE HOST BRAIN.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

HARD TO BELIEVE INDEED. ONE OF MY OLD CO’S SERVED WITH HIM BACK DURING TREBUCHET, SAID HE WAS AS GOOD OF A SOLDIER AS IT COMES. I WONDER WHAT CHANGED. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|I DID SOME DIGGING, AND FOUND A FEW INTERESTING DETAILS. THAT BETA-5 CLUE HELPED A LOT---SOMETHING LIKE THAT IS A GREAT WAY TO REFINE A SEARCH. AT ANY RATE, I FOUND A FEW REPORTS ON HEADHUNTER, AND WHILE THEY DIDN’T MENTION ORIGIN, THEY DID LIST AN EXTREMELY IMPRESSIVE CSV. IF I WERE TO TAKE A WILD GUESS, I’D SAY SIERRAS. PROBLEM IS, I DON’T HAVE A CLUE WHERE THEY CAME FROM. EVERYTHING ELSE IS LOCKED DOWN TOO TIGHT FOR EVEN ME. AS FOR DRACULA, I CAME UP EMPTY. THERE WERE A FEW FILES FLOATING AROUND, BUT THEY’D ALL BEEN WIPED. I COULDN’T EVEN BEGIN TO TRACK THAT DOWN. NOBLE, THOUGH, IS A DIFFERENT STORY. YOUR RIGHT ABOUT NAVSPECWAR; THEIR CLASSIFICATIONS REALLY AREN’T AS GOOD. I MANAGED TO SNAG A UNIT ROSTER, AND THEY’RE DEFINITELY SIERRAS. THEIR TAGS ARE HIGHER THAN NORMAL, THOUGH, SO THEY’RE EITHER S-III’S OR SOMETHING DIFFERENT ENTIRELY. AGAIN, NO INFORMATION ON THEIR ORIGINS, JUST A ROSTER AND A CSV. AND JUST TO HUMOR YOU, I DID A SEARCH ON AMBROSE AND MANAGED TO DIG SOME STUFF UP ON HIM TOO. NOT MUCH, BUT HIS NAME IS DEFINITELY “KURT AMBROSE” AND HE’S GOT A FILE THAT’S SO REDACTED IT LOOKS LIKE SOMEONE SPILLED A BUCKET OF PAINT ON IT.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

THE LIGHTER DOESN’T SURPRISE ME. DID YOU KNOW SHE WAS ACTUALLY PLAYING WITH TWO OF THEM WHEN I INTERVIEWED HER? THE WAY SHE WAS LIGHTING THINGS UP, I WAS AFRAID SHE’D BURN DOWN THE WHOLE BUILDING. AS FOR VIGILANCE AND COOPERATION, I HAVE TO AGREE ON BOTH COUNTS. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|I DID SHOE SHINING LONG ENOUGH TO BE ABLE TO DEAL WITH IT, THOUGH. THE REAL QUESTION IS WHETHER YOU COULD DEAL WITH BEING STUCK AT A DESK.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

ENRYPTION CODE: JOKER-BRAVO-KILO-NOVEMBER

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: CPT (0-3) <font color=White>LIMA KILO 

TO: C0L (0-6) <font color=White>GAMMA SIERRA 

'''SUBJECT: PROJECT ARES, PART 2 '''

MY, AREN'T YOU LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE? LET ME ASK YOU THIS; WOULD YOU RATHER DIE CONSTANTLY WORRIED, UNABLE TO SLEEP BECAUSE YOU'RE AFRAID OF WHAT WILL HAPPEN, OR DIE WITH A SMILE ON YOUR FACE, KNOWING AND ACCEPTING THAT YOU'VE DONE YOUR BEST TO HAVE A GOOD LIFE, REGARDLESS OF HOW SHORT THAT LIFE WAS? THINK ON THAT - YOU MIGHT START AGREEING WITH ME THEN. (WELL, SCIENCE FICTION WAS SPREADING LIKE WILDFIRE AT THAT TIME, I IMAGINE THERE'D BE DREAMING). AND YES, SIERRAS ARE MODEL STUDENTS. DOESN'T MEAN EVERYBODY WANTS TO ACT LIKE IT (AKA ME). THOUGH I CAN HONESTLY SAY I DO MY BEST AT BEING HUMBLE, IT'S HARD NOT TO STICK OUT WHEN YOU HAVE 168 IQ AND LEARNED HOW TO BREAK INTO YOUR PA'S PASSWORD-PROTECTED TITANIUM SAFE AT AGE FIVE.

PUT IT BEHIND YOU; THERE'S NOTHING YOU CAN DO, JUST AS I COULDN'T PREVENT MY OWN KIDNAPPING. BUT WHO SAID ALL CHARLIE ONES ARE ALL DEVOTED TO HALSEY? I KNOW THAT I'M NOT A FAN. MAYBE IT'S NOT AS BAD NOW AS AFTER MY CONSCRIPTION, BUT I CAN'T SAY I REALLY LIKE HER EVEN NOW. I DO REGRET BREAKING HER NOSE AND LIP AND GIVING HER BLACK EYES EARLY IN TRAINING, THOUGH. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE_____|YOU'VE NOT SEEN MANY WOMEN PUNCH, I SEE. YOU SHOULD MEET WITH A FEMALE SPARTAN SOMETIME, AND THEN PRAISE INNIES RIGHT IN FRONT OF HER - JUST FOR THE EXPERIENCE, OF COURSE!|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

<font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE_________|AS FOR MY HISTORY WITH HALSEY (I IMAGINE YOU'RE PRETTY CURIOUS NOW), HERE'S THE DEAL; MUM TAUGHT HER AT UNIVERSITY (YSIONRIS JEROMI WASN'T THE ONLY ONE TO TEACH HER, SEE), AND THE TWO WERE ON FRIENDLY TERMS, SO WHEN SHE CAME OVER ONE DAY, I NATURALLY TREATED HER AS WELL AS ANY OTHER FRIEND OF MY MUM'S. I IMAGINE YOU CAN GUESS WHAT I FELT WHEN I WAS ABDUCTED [X] WEEKS LATER AND THEN LEARNED IT WAS THAT VERY SAME PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR IT. SO, ONE DAY, I ENTERED HER OFFICE ALONE AND SIMPLY WENT BERSERK, UNTIL MENDEZ AND TWO DIS ARRIVED AND SUBDUED ME. I'D ELABORATE FURTHER ON THE SUBJECT IF I WAS PROUD OF IT, WHICH I'M NOT.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

GOOD, I JUST RECEIVED A NOTICE OF THE IMPENDING SHIPMENT. THE RECRUITS ARE EXCITED ABOUT HAVING THEIR IN-SUIT TRAINING SO SOON, THOUGH I'M UNSURE IF IT'S BECAUSE THEY LIKE THE IDEA OF RECEIVING ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY, OR JUST BECAUSE IT'LL LET THEM USE GREATER AMOUNT OF FORCE IN THE EXCERCISES. I'LL HAZARD A GUESS AND SAY IT'S A LITTLE OF BOTH. HOW ABOUT YOU? <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE_______|JESUS, IT'S A GOT THING YOU DEFIED THAT; GOD KNOWS, THERE'S FEW ENOUGH CANDIDATES AS IT IS. AS FOR KALMIYA, I IMAGINE HALSEY FLASH-CLONED HER BRAIN AND CREATED THE AI THAT WAY. IT'S POSSIBLE TO USE, BUT IN MOST CASES INEFFICIENT, AS MOST BRAINS DON'T SURVIVE THE PROCESS LONG ENOUGH TO CREATE AIS FROM THEM. BY THE WAY, I GOT PAST HER SOMETIME AGO, AND I MANAGED TO TAG A FEW SUITS GOING TO ALGOLIS. I'LL TRY TO KEEP A TAB ON THOSE, THEY COULD PROVE USEFUL.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

MAYBE IT STARTED LIKE YOU? GREW COMFORTABLE WITH THE NEW ROLE OVER TIME? IF SO, YOU SHOULD WATCH OUT SO YOU DON'T END UP THE SAME. OF COURSE, HE COULD'VE BEEN LIKE THAT FROM THE START, BUT DIDN'T GET TO SHOW IT UNTIL HIS ONI ENLISTMENT. I FIND IT CURIOUS THAT HE'S STILL MARRIED - HE DOESN'T SEEM THE TYPE WHO WOULD TAKE DAYS OFF TO BE WITH THE WIFE OR HESITATE TO ASSIGN FAMILY MEMBERS TO SUICIDE MISSIONS. SPEAKING OF WHICH, I NEVER ASKED, YOU GOT FAMILY YOURSELF? <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE_____|IF IT'S RELATED TO S-III, I THINK HEADHUNTER'S SIERRAS TOO. AND NOBLE SEEMS INTERESTING, I'LL HAVE TO KEEP IT IN MIND (THERE'S A CHANCE WE COULD FUNNEL ONE OR TWO OF OUR SPARTANS TO IT - RATHER THAT THAN THAN HAVING THEM END UP AS ANOTHER GENERATION OF RICH'S LEONIDAN GRIM REAPERS). AND THANKS FOR THE INTEL ON AMBROSE. IT'S A FUNNY THING; I ONCE KNEW SOMEBODY NAMED KURT, A CHARLIE ONE LIKE MYSELF. GOOD MAN, A LITTLE LIKE MYSELF IN HIS RESPECT FOR NON-SPARTAN PERSONNEL AND HABIT TO MAKE FRIENDS. WISH HE STILL LIVED.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

YEAH, I KNEW THAT, READ IT IN HER PSYCHE PROFILE. I NOTIFIED THE PSYCHOLOGISTS ABOUT THIS RECENT INCIDENT. OF COURSE, IF WE LET THEM DECIDE WHO'RE FIT FOR DUTY OR NOT, WE'D BE DOWN TO A DOZEN CANDIDATES. I WON'T CHOP HER FROM THE ROSTER FOR THAT - SHE HASN'T CAUSED ANY INCIDENTS SO FAR, NO REASON SHE WOULD NOW. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE_____|YEAH, THAT ANSWER'S SIMPLE; I COULDN'T. I'M NOT SITTING ON MY ASS AND LETTING OTHERS FIGHT FOR ME. WHICH IS WHY I'LL NEVER HAVE A NORMAL FAMILY, I GUESS. NO KISSING A WIFE GOODBYE BEFORE HEADING OFF TO WORK, TEACHING THE FIRST KID TO WALK OR WRITING A WILL FOR MY CHILDREN ON MY DEATHBED FOR ME. I GUESS I'LL HAVE TO SETTLE FOR HOPING FOR A REAL FUNERAL WITH AN ACTUAL TOMBSTONE.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

ENRYPTION CODE: CHARLIE-BRAVO-LIMA-JULIET

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: COL (0-6) <font color=White>GAMMA SIERRA 

TO: CPT (0-3) <font color=White>LIMA KILO 

'''SUBJECT:RE PROJECT ARES, PART 2 '''

WELL, YOU’VE GOT A BIT OF A POINT THERE, BUT TRY AS I MIGHT, YOUR OPTIMISM ELUDES ME. I’VE BEEN DOING THIS JOB FOR ALMOST NINE YEARS, AND I’LL TELL YOU THAT WHEN I JOINED THE MILITARY, I NEVER PLANNED ON RECRUITING LITTLE KIDS TO BE HIGH TECH CHILD SOLDIERS, AND NEVER EXPECTED TO SEE THE LIST OF PEOPLE AND PLANETS I KNOW SHRINK DAILY AS THEY WERE KILLED AND DESTROYED. IT WEIGHS ON ME, HOWEVER MUCH I WANT IT NOT TOO. AND I GUESS YOUR RIGHT ABOUT THE PEOPLE BACK THEN. IF THEY WEREN’T BASKING IN THEIR OWN HUBRIS, THEY WERE SPENDING ALL THEIR TIME IN LEISURE. AND DIDN’T YOU KNOW IQ SCORES ARE COMPLETELY OVERRATED? ALL THAT PLACEMENT VARIATION AND CRAP.

I KNOW, MENTALLY, THAT YOUR RIGHT ABOUT PUTTING IT BEHIND ME, BUT IT’S STILL DIFFICULT. THIS JOB ISN’T HELPING ANY. AUGMENTATIONS ARE GETTING CLOSER AND CLOSER AND WE ALL KNOW THE PROBABILITIES. I LOOK AT THESE KIDS AND WONDER WHO WILL BE LEFT IN A YEARS TIME, OR TWO. ITS DIFFICULT. I KNOW YOU STRUGGLE WITH IT TOO, SO I DON’T HAVE TO REMIND YOU, BUT ITS DIFFERENT SOMEHOW WHEN YOU WERE THE ONE WHO SELECTED THEM. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|SOUNDS LIKE A ENAMORING, EXCELLENT CHARACTER BUILDING EXPERIENCE. SOMEHOW, THOUGH, I THINK I‘LL PASS|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

AND I’M EXCITED ABOUT THE SUITS, JUST TO HOPE IT’LL IMPROVE SURVIVABILITY. THE SIERRA THREES WHO DID LIVE PRACTICE WITH THEIR SPI BEFORE DEPLOYMENT ALL SEEMED TO HAVE DONE BETTER ONCE LIVE INTO THE FIELD, SO AT LEAST OUR KIDS WILL HAVE SOMETHING GOING FOR THEM, EVEN IF FATE HAS TURNED AGAINST THEM. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|YES, I RECKON IT WAS. NOT LIKE I HAD ANY CHOICE, THOUGH. WHATEVER ONI SAID, I COULDN‘T JUST SIT AROUND AND WATCH THEM DIE, COULD I? AND BY SUITS, YOU DON‘T MEAN MJOLNIR, DO YOU? WE CAN‘T BE THAT LUCKY, NOT AFTER ALL THIS, CAN WE?|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

AS FOR ACKERSON, I CAN HONESTLY SAY I DON’T KNOW. MAYBE HE WAS A GOOD SOLDIER WHO GOT ROPED INTO THE WRONG CROWD; MAYBE HE WAS A BAD ONE ALL ALONG AND JUST NEEDED AN EXCUSE. AS FOR HIS WIFE, I COULDN’T SPECULATE. IN RESPONSE TO BOTH QUESTIONS, I’M NOT MARRIED AND THE MILITARY HAS TAKEN ANY CHANCE OF THAT. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|I CAN‘T ARGUE WITH YOUR LOGIC, WHAT WITH THEIR CLOSE LINK TO BETA-5 AND S-III. AS FOR NOBLE, I‘LL SEE WHAT I CAN DIG UP. MORE BACKUP FOR OUR KIDS CAN NEVER BE A BAD THING. I‘M SORRY TO REMIND YOU ABOUT KURT, THOUGH. HE WENT DOWN DURING DEEP SPACE RECON, DIDN‘T HE? TERRIBLE WASTE, IF YOU ASK ME.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

AS FOR [S-343], I’M INCLINED TO AGREE. WE CAN’T AFFORD TO AXE ANYONE ELSE FROM THE LIST (AND IF WE WERE TO CUT HER, WE’D HAVE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE FACT THAT MOST OF THESE KIDS AREN’T CUT OUT FOR THIS---347’S DANGEROUSLY SELF ABSORBED, 341’S INSUBORDINATE, 332 IS A FLIRT (OF ALL THINGS), AND A HALF DOZEN OTHERS HAVE DEPRESSION, ANGER, AND TRAUMATIC DISORDERS FROM THE LOSS OF THEIR FAMILIES). <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|AND YOU CALL ME THE CYNICAL ONE? I CAN‘T IMAGINE A LIFE BEYOND THE WAR; YOU CAN‘T IMAGINE ONE WITHOUT WAR AT ALL.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

ENRYPTION CODE: GOLF-MIKE-BRAVO-ALPHA

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: CPT (0-3) <font color=White>LIMA KILO 

TO: C0L (0-6) <font color=White>GAMMA SIERRA 

'''SUBJECT: RE: RE: PROJECT ARES, PART 2 '''

LIFE NEVER GOES AS EXPECTED; IF YOU BUILD UP LONG-RANGE EXPECTATIONS OF WHAT LIFE WILL BE, YOU WILL BE DISAPPOINTED. ONLY WAY TO AVOID THIS? GET RID OF EXPECTATIONS, AND JUST GO WITH THE FLOW AT ALL TIMES. NOW, ABOUT THE IQ THING, NOW THAT MY PHISOPICAL STATEMENT OF THE WEEK IS OUT OF THE WAY; JUST BECAUSE IT'S OVERRATED IT DOESN'T MEAN IT DOESN'T HAVE ITS USES. 'SIDES, I WAS JUST POINTING I OUT I'VE GOT A FAIR BIT OF INTELLIGENCE (HARD TO BELIEVE, I KNOW). <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE_____|IF IT'S ANY CONSOLATION, YOU'RE LUCKY NOT TO BE WITH COVERT OPS; THE MISSIONS I HAVE TO TAKE CARE OF ARE SOMETIMES DIRTIER THAN ANY COVENANT ATTACK. FOR EXAMPLE, I'M CERTAIN THAT YOU'VE NEVER HAD TO HOLD CHILDREN HOSTAGE SIMPLY TO MAKE SURE THEIR INNIE PARENT(S) AGREE TO A TRUCE WITH THE UNSC. OR KILL ASTRONAVIGATORS THAT JUST BLESSED YOUR ARRIVAL AND BEGGED YOU TO SAVE THEM, JUST TO MAKE SURE THEY DON'T FALL INTO ENEMY HANDS.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

OH, AND MOST OF THE CANDIDATEST HAVE HAD A COUPLE SESSIONS WITH THE SUITS NOW. MOST OF THEM WERE IN GOOD SPIRITS - NOT 343, THOUGH. SHE DECIDED TO CALL IT GARBAGE AFTER MAKING A DENT IN 347's HARNESS WITH HER UNARMED HAND. BUT COME TO THINK OF IT, IT MIGHT'VE JUST BEEN BECAUSE SHE BROKE HER KNUCKLE IN DOING SO. SHE HAD TO SKIP TWO HOURS OF TRAINING TO FIX IT (TO 347's DELIGHT). OTHERWISE IT WENT WELL; I'M PROUD OF HOW FAST THEY'RE ADAPTING TO IT (AND I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE 341, 311, 319, 327 AND 303 STARTING A SCAVENGER HUNT FOR TECH TO UPGRADE THE SUITS WITH: THEY'RE SO ADORABLE - MISCHIEVOUS, BUT ADORABLE - AREN'T THEY? LIKE PUPPIES, OR INFANTS). <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE________|I'M POSITIVE; MJOLNIR ARMOR. BUT I'VE ONLY MANAGED TO TAG THEM - I DON'T THINK ANYONE SHORT OF THE SECURITY COMMITTEE OR DIRECTOR PARANGOSKY HAS ENOUGH CLOUT TO GET THE SUITS OUT OF STORAGE. AND ALGOLIS ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR VERY SECURE FACILITIES (I HAVE FIRST-HAND EXPERIENCE TO PROVE IT). BUT IN CASE THE COVENANT FIND THE PLANET, IT MIGHT BE POSSIBLE TO EXTRACT THEM AFTER SECURITY'S DOWN AND BEFORE THE COVENANT GET TO THEM; ENSURING THEY DON'T GET WASTED.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

YOU REALLY SHOULD FIND YOURSELF A WOMAN; I GET THE IMPRESSION THAT SOME KISSING WOULD DO YOU GOOD. AT LEAST IT'D BE BETTER THAN BUYING SUCH SERVICES ON THE BROTHEL ON GILGAMESH. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|YES, IT'S A WASTE. IT'D HAVE BEEN BETTER IF HE LIVED AND WAS THE ONE CHOSEN TO TRAIN THESE KIDS INSTEAD OF ME; HE WAS A NATURAL LEADER. BUT THERE'S NOTHING TO DO ABOUT THAT NOW; I'LL HONOR HIM AND ALL THE OTHER FALLEN SPARTANS IN MY OWN WAY. SPEAKING OF SIERRAS, ADDITIONAL DIGGING INTO SPECWARCOM GROUP THREE DATABASES SHOW THAT NOBLE ISN'T THE ONLY "SPECIAL" TEAM OF OPERATORS; THERE'S ALSO UNITS CALLED [ROYAL], [GAUNTLET] AND [ECHO], MAYBE MORE THAN THAT. WHAT'S MORE IS THAT THE GROUP'S CO IS URBAN HOLLAND - I THINK YOU'RE AWARE OF THE FACT THAT HE'S A LEGEND IN SPECWARCOM. I'M NOT SURPRISED HE'S BEEN CHOSEN TO COMMAND SIERRA UNITS (MAYBE WE SHOULD CONSIDER ASSIGNING ONE OR TWO OF THE ARES TEAMS TO HIS COMMAND? I'D SLEEP BETTER KNOWING HE'S ONE OF THE OFFICERS COMMANDING MY MEN).|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

AS FOR THE CANDIDATES AND THEIR "ISSUES", YOU SAID IT. AND CUT 332 SOME SLACK; I THINK SHE PICKED IT UP FROM ME. AND AS I SAID ABOVE, 341 IS ADORABLE - WHEN HE ISN'T RUNNING HIS MOUTH LIKE CRAZY. 347 WORRIES ME, THOUGH; ARROGANCE NEVER GETS YOU FAR IN THIS LINE OF WORK. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE____________|ACTUALLY, THAT'S VERY OPTIMISTIC THINKING FOR A SPARTAN. AND BESIDES, I DO A LOT OF IMAGINING; IT'S JUST THAT I CAN'T MAKE MYSELF LIVE PEACEFULLY WHILE THERE'S OTHERS THAT DON'T AND NEED MY HELP. WERE IT NOT FOR THAT, I MAY HAVE DEFECTED YEARS AGO - I HONESTLY DON'T CARE ABOUT THE UNSC (TREASON AS IT IS TO SAY THAT THESE DAYS, AT LEAST IF YOU'RE EMPLOYED WITH SECTION THREE), LET ALONE ONI. WHAT I CARE ABOUT IS MY FAMILY, MY COMRADES AND ALL THE PEOPLE THAT CAN'T FEND FOR THEMSELVES. CALL ME TRAITOR IF YOU WANT, BUT THAT'S HOW IT IS.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

ENRYPTION CODE: NOVEMBER-BRAVO-INDIGO-LIMA

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: COL (0-6) <font color=White>GAMMA SIERRA 

TO: CPT (0-3) <font color=White>LIMA KILO 

'''SUBJECT: RE: RE: RE: PROJECT ARES, PART 2 '''

YOUR RIGHT ON THAT ONE, FRIEND. LIFE IS NEVER NEAT AND TIDY. I’VE LEARNED THAT THE HARD WAY THESE PAST FEW YEARS, AND THE THINGS I’VE DONE HAVE BEEN RELATIVELY TAME…WELL, BY ONI STANDARDS AT LEAST. EVEN SO, I CAN’T HELP REMEMBERING BETTER DAYS. EVERYTHING USED TO MAKE SENSE, HAVE AN ORDER, WE ALL USED TO HAVE A FUTURE. AND THAT’S A PROSPECT THAT’S SHRINKING QUICKER THAN MY HAIRLINE. AND DON’T TUTE YOUR OWN HORN TO MUCH, SON. YOU CAN KEEP YOUR 168 IQ SCORE. I’LL KEEP MY THREE SCIENCE DEGREES. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE_____|IF THAT‘S SUPPOSED TO MAKE ME FEEL BETTER, THEN I THINK YOU NEED TO REEVALUATE YOUR METHODS. YOU WILL DEFINITELY NOT MAKE OUTSTANDING MORALE LIFTER OF THE YEAR WITH THOSE KINDS OF EXAMPLES. I DO THANK GOD EVERY DAY THOUGH I NEVER ENDED UP IN SPECIAL OPERATIONS. I DON‘T LIKE IT, BUT I‘M NOT SURE I COULD SLOT SOMEONE IN THE COLD LIKE THAT, EVEN IF I WANTED TO.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

GOOD TO KNOW THEY’LL TOLERATE IT. THAT’S ONE BURDEN LIFTED, IF ONLY A LITTLE. AND DID ANYTHING PROVOKE 343? OR DID SHE JUST GO OFF ON 347? (NOT THAT’D I’D BLAME HER; I TRY TO STAY PRETTY NEUTRAL AND STAY FAIR, BUT THAT GIRL REALLY IS A HANDFUL---I’D REGRET GIVING HER A TEAM, IF SHE WASN’T SO DAMNED TALENTED) BESIDES THE ONES YOU NAMED (OUR CREAM OF THE CROP), HOW ARE THE OTHERS HOLDING UP WITH IT? I’M GETTING VERY WORRIED ABOUT SOME OF THEM. THE DISBARITIES IN THEIR GENETIC MATCHUP ARE REALLY STARTING TO BECOME MORE APPARENT (YOUR PROBABLY ALREADY AWARE, BUT I SAW THAT 338’S PROFICIENCY WITH SNIPER WEAPONRY IS EXPONTENTIALLY BETTER THAN ARE WEAKER RECRUITS, 343 IS MATCHING THAT WITH CLOSE COMBAT, AND 341---WELL, HE MAY BE A LITTLE SHIT, BUT HE’S GOOD WITH EVERYTHING). I DON’T WANT KIDS FALLING BEHIND. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE________|THAT WILL BE ONE INTERESTING MISSION THEN, FOR WHOEVER IS NEAREST. I WOULDN‘T BE JEALOUS OF ANYONE TRYING TO GRAB CLASSIFIED TECH IN THE MIDDLE OF AN INVASION (THOUGH I GUESS THE ENGINEERS END UP DOING THAT EVERY TIME THE COVENANT ATTACK, COUNTING THE COLE PROTOCOL AND EVERYTHING). I GUESS THE QUESTION NOW IS WHETHER WE TELL THE RECRUITS ABOUT IT OR JUST MAKE NOTE OF IT FOR USE LATER.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

FIND MYSELF A WOMAN? THERE’S AN IDEA, IF I EVER HEARD ONE. TELL YOU WHAT: YOU SET IT UP, AND I’LL GLADLY OBLIGE IN SOME LATE NIGHT ROMANCE (AND WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT BROTHEL’S, ANYWAY?)<font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|THAT‘S THE NATURE OF WAR I GUESS. SOME OF US GET GRAND, HEROIC DEATHS, AND THE REST OF US END UP BEING SLOTTED BECAUSE OF BAD LUCK AND RANDOM CHANCE. AND I THINK YOU DISCREDIT YOURSELF TO MUCH. THE RECRUITS REALLY DO LOOK UP TO YOU AND RESPECT YOU, AND THAT SAYS A LOT. I‘M CERTAINLY GRATEFUL. I‘VE READ THE FILES ON SOME OF THE OTHER CHARLIE ONES, AND THERES MORE THAN A FEW I‘M GLAD I DON‘T HAVE TO WORK WITH. I READ UP ON A FEW (013 AND 144), AND I SWEAR I WOULD SHOOT MYSELF IF I HAD TO WORK WITH THOSE KINDS OF NUTTERS. AND GOOD WORK FINDING THOSE OTHER GROUPS; IT NEVER CEASES TO AMAZE ME HOW (WITH SECURITY CLEARANCES WELL BELOW MY OWN) YOU ALWAYS SEEM TO FIND THESE SO EASILY. AND YES, I KNOW ABOUT HOLLAND. HE DEFINITELY SEEMS THE TYPE TO RUN A CONTINGENT OF SIERRAS. IF WE CAN SWING IT, I DON’T SEE ANYTHING WRONG WITH MAKING CONTACT WITH HIM. WORK YOUR CONTACTS, AND I’LL WORK ON THE BRASS.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

I’M SURE HALSEY WOULD BE SHITTING BRICKS IF SHE KNEW ONE OF HER SPARTANS WAS SUCH A BAD INFLUENCE ON THE YOUTH. WHO’D HAVE THOUGHT THAT A SIERRA IN TRAINING WOULD PICK UP SLEAZY HABITS---FROM ANOTHER SPARTAN. AND 341, ADORABLE? REALLY SON? YOU REALLY DO LIKE CRIMSON, DON’T YOU? (AS FOR 347, I’M GOING TO ENROLE HER IN SOME COUNSELING SESSIONS TO HOPEFULLY IRON THAT OUT. OUR TEAM LEADERS CAN’T AFFORD TO BE ARROGANT; WITH ALL THEIR INHERENT DISADVANTAGES, THEY’LL END UP GETTING THEIR PEOPLE KILLED. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE____________|I HOPE YOUR NOT OFFENDED, BUT YOU REALLY DO PUZZLE ME. ONE SECOND YOU ACT LIKE A NORMAL PERSON, INDEPENDENT AND SOVREGIN, AND THE NEXT YOU ACCEPT YOUR FATE LIKE IT‘S SET IN STONE. WE LIVE IN VERY DIFFERENT WORLDS (AS IF IT NEEDED POINTING OUT). AND I‘M NOT GOING TO TURN YOU INTO SECTION 0, DON’T WORRY. I‘VE GOT NO LOVE FOR ONI, AND THE ONLY REASON I‘M HERE IS BECAUSE IT‘S MY DUTY. YOUR NO MORE OF A TRAITOR THAN I AM (AND PROBABLY LESS OF ONE THAN 341).|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

ENRYPTION CODE: INDIGO-INDIGO-SIERRA-NOVEMBER-ALPHA

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: CPT (0-3) <font color=White>LIMA KILO 

TO: COL (0-6) <font color=White>GAMMA SIERRA 

'''SUBJECT: RE: RE: RE: RE: PROJECT ARES, PART 2 '''

OH, CHEER UP; DON'T YOU KNOW THERE'S WIGS IN CASE YOU RUN OUT OF HAIR? THOUGH IN ALL HONESTY, WE ARE LOSING TERRITORY, THAT WE CAN BOTH AGREE ON. WHICH IS WHY WE NEED TO MAKE SURE THAT WE DON'T LOSE MORE. IF THESE TRAINEES - NO, SOLDIERS, THEY'VE COME THAT FAR BY NOW - CAN ACHIEVE THAT, THEN IT'LL BE WORTH IT (REGARDLESS OF WHAT YOU AND I WILL FEEL ABOUT THE LOSSES). IF THEY CAN'T...THEN AT LEAST I'LL KNOW WHAT LEVEL OF HELL TO EXPECT ONCE I DIE (I ASSUME YOU'VE READ DANTE? 9 CIRCLES OF HELL AND ALL THAT). AND WELL, IQ'S PRETTY MUCH THE ONLY MEASURE I'M ALLOWED TO HAVE, SEEING AS I CAN'T TAKE DEGREES LIKE YOU <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE____|MAKES ME WONDER WHAT I'D BE IF I HADN'T BEEN RECRUITED. A MASTER THIEF (ROBBING THE UEG GOLD RESERVE CLEAN AND GETTING AWAY WITH IT SEEMS EASY TO ME COMPARED TO FIGHTING A WAR AGAINST GENOCIDAL ALIENS)? A CAA INVESTIGATOR (DETECTIVE WORK SOUNDS FUN, AT LEAST IF YOU GO BY WHAT YOU SEE IN THE VIDS)? A MARINE (SERVING LIKE I DO NOW, JUST WITH MORE FREEDOM)? AN AIRMAN (PUTTING THOSE PILOT SKILLS TO GOOD USE)? WHAT DO YOU THINK? OH, AND I GUESS I SUCK AT CHEERING PEOPLE UP, BUT YOU HAVE TO ADMIT IT COULD ALL BE A WHOLE LOT WORSE.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|.

I'M CERTAIN 347 WAS PLAYING UP THE ME, MYSELF AND MY AWESOMENESS FOR SOME TIME, BUT I HAVEN'T BOTHERED INVESTIGATING IT. I PREFERRED TO KEEP THE DI'S SHARP ON OTHER MATTERS, AND I WANTED THE SUIT TRAINING UNDERWAY IMMEDIATELY. AND THE OTHERS? MOSTLY THEY DO WELL, THEY KEEP UP AND STAY STRONG, BUT...IT'S VISIBLE IT TAKES MORE EFFORT. I'M AFRAID SOME OF THEM MAY BE ON THE VERGE OF BREAKING (I ORDERED SOME STIMS INTO THOSE CANDIDATES' MEALS FOR SOME TIME TO COME - THEY NEED TO KEEP FIGHTING IF THEY'RE TO STAND A CHANCE). BUT MOSTLY, THEY'RE DOING WELL (BALDUIN IN PARTICULAR IS A FIGHTER - HE'S NOT CREAM OF THE CROP, BUT I HAVEN'T SEEN SUCH WILLPOWER ANYWHERE; HAD HE HAD RACHEL'S GENETIC MAKEUP, HE WOULD BE NUMBER ONE, NO QUESTION. TOO BAD HIS GENES ARE AGAINST HIM). DON'T WORRY TOO MUCH; THEY'RE NOT FALLING BEHIND. NOT IF I CAN HELP IT. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE_________|YOU WANT MY OPINION? TELL CRIMSON, BUT ONLY IF THEY FIND THEMSELVES IN THE SECTOR AND THE WINTER CONTINGENCY IS DECLARED. NONE OF THE OTHER TEAMS WOULD AGREE TO THEFT (RACHEL MIGHT, BUT SHE WOULDN'T BE ABLE TO DO IT ALONE), AND IF TOO MANY KNEW ABOUT IT...I DON'T WANT TO GET ANY OF THE KIDS IN TROUBLE. SUCH INFORMATION COULD PROVE CATASTROPHIC, EVEN TO SIERRAS.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

REALLY? WELL, I HAVE ENCOUNTERED A FAIR AMOUNT OF LOVELY LADIES THROUGHOUT MY CAREER (COVERT OPS GET YOU INTO CONTACT WITH CIVILIANS MORE OFTEN THAN YOU'D THINK <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE____|- EVERY OPERATIVE'S AUTHORIZED TO SET UP HIS OWN NETWORK OF CONTACTS AS NECESSARY TO COMPLETE OUR MISSIONS, THUS HOW I'VE BEEN ABLE TO COLLECT ALL THIS INTEL I'VE SHARED WITH YOU (PEOPLE DO TELL YOU MORE THAN YOU'D IMAGINE WHEN YOU TALK TO THEM, TOTE A GUN IN THEIR FACES OR GET THEM BETWEEN THE SHEETS)|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END| ), SOME OF THEM WHO'S BOUND TO CONSIDER YOU. THERE'S THE GOVERNOR OF HARMONY, CONSTANTINA LORRAINE, SHE OWES ME ONE (I SAVED HER FROM AN ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT BACK IN '26; THE INNIES THERE HAVE ALWAYS BEEN WILD, EVEN NOW - WOULDN'T SURPRISE ME IF THEY HIT A RELAY AND STOLE FREIGHTERS ONE OF THESE DAYS), AND BETTER YET; SHE HAS A THING FOR GUYS IN UNIFORM (NOT THAT I'M, UH, SPEAKING FROM PERSONAL EXPERIENCE OR ANYTHING). BUT IF YOU CAN'T WAIT (OR ORDER A TRIP TO HARMONY), I MIGHT ALSO RECOMMEND DOCTOR STROUD, EYE CANDY AND THE BOSS OF OUR NURSE CONTINGENT (HEARD SHE CAN'T HAVE KIDS, SO THERE'S NO CHANCE OF ANY EMBARRASSING SIDE-EFFECTS OCCURRING BECAUSE OF A PASSIONATE LIAISON - BUT WOOING SHOULD BE DONE TACTFULLY; SHE LOST HER HUSBAND, ONE SERGEANT MARCUS PHOENIX ON SERA BACK IN '45). I COULD GO ON, IF YOU LIKE, ASSUMING YOU WEREN'T JUST FOOLING ME AROUND. (AS FOR MY BROTHEL EXPERIENCE, IT'S RATHER INDIRECT, REALLY; I WAS DISPATCHED TO GILGAMESH TO TAKE OUT AN INNIE LEADER WHO WAS TAKING OVER THE PLANET'S CRIMINAL UNDERWORLD FROM THE SYNDICATES THAT HAD PREVIOUSLY RULED (BACKED BY ONI, BELIEVE IT OR NOT; APPARENTLY IN RETURN FOR AID IN ROOTING OUT THE REBELS). EVERYTHING DIDN'T GO ACCORDING TO PLAN AND I HAD TO CHASE HIM THROUGH HALF THE TOWN - INCLUDING THE BROTHEL. WHILE PASSING THROUGH THAT PLACE, I ALSO SAVED AN, ERR, EMPLOYEE FROM AN OVERLY ROWDY "CUSTOMER". THINGS WORKED OUT; I GOT THE INNIE, THE "EMPLOYEE" SHOWED HER APPRECIATION IN A RATHER UNORTHODOX MANNER, AND I GOT SOME FIRST-HAND VISUALS ON WHAT A BROTHEL IS LIKE.) <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE_____|THANKS, BUT IT'S STILL A MATTER OF FACT; OTHERS COULD HAVE DONE THIS BETTER THAN ME. AND BELIEVE IT OR NOT, BUT I KINDA MISS THOSE NUTTERS. LEONID MORE SO, PROBABLY; HE WAS AT LEAST ON MY TEAM, AND I'M NOT SURE I CAN FULLY APPRECIATE A PERSON WHO WAS ONE OF HALSEY'S FAVORITES.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

TO BE PERFECTLY HONEST, I DON'T GIVE A DAMN WHAT HALSEY WOULD THINK ABOUT HOW I TREAT THESE KIDS (WOULD PROBABLY MAKE ACKERSON PROUD BY SAYING THAT, ASSUMING HE WOULD GET TO HEAR IT OR EVEN KNOW OF MY EXISTENCE). AND WHAT DO YOU MEAN, "SLEAZY HABITS"? FLIRTING AND SEDUCTION HAS FAR MORE USES THAN YOU THINK ON ANTI-INNIE OPS (NOW IF ONLY IT WORKED AS WELL ON THE COVENANT...). AND YES, I'M TOTALLY SERIOUS; CRIMSON'S ADORABLE. I MEAN, WHO CAN'T SEE THAT? <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE____________|NOT OFFENDED AT ALL. I AM INDEPENDENT AND SOVEREIGN, BUT THAT DOESN'T MEAN I DON'T KNOW WHAT'S FACT AND WHAT'S NOT. HOW I WILL END UP IS A FACT; NO AMOUNT OF CHEERFULNESS WILL EVER CHANGE THAT, ONLY MAKE ME FEEL BETTER ABOUT IT. BUT THING IS THAT I WANT TO FEEL BETTER ABOUT IT, THUS MY HOPING AND DREAMING. AND AWW, HERE I WAS HALF-HOPING YOU WOULD HAND ME OVER; IT'D HAVE BEEN INTERESTING TO SEE IF I COULD'VE INTERCEPTED YOUR COMMUNIQUÉ TO S-0 BEFORE IT REACHED THEM OR NOT.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

ENRYPTION CODE: YANKEE-ALPHA-MIKE

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: COL (0-6) <font color=White>GAMMA SIERRA 

TO: CPT (0-3) <font color=White>LIMA KILO 

'''SUBJECT: PROJECT ARES, PART 3 '''

A WIG? HA, I’D SOONER GO BALD THAN RESORT TO THAT, SON. I MIGHT LOOK GOOD WITH A DOME JOB. GETTING SERIOUS, HOWEVER, THE PROBLEM ISN’T JUST THAT WE’RE LOSING TERRITORY OR HAVING OUR FLEETS, DESTROYED, IT’S THAT IT’S HAPPENING WITHOUT ANY SOLUTION IN SIGHT. AS GOOD AS THEY ARE, OUR YOUNG SOLDIERS ARE STILL JUST STOPGAP METHODS, DESPERATE SOLUTIONS TO HOLD THE COVENANT OFF AS LONG AS POSSIBLE. OUR SPARTANS COULD BEAT THE COVENANT IN EVERY BATTLE, TAKE NO LOSSES EVER, AND WE’D STILL LOSE. THAT’S WHAT KEEPS ME UP AT NIGHT; THE REALIZATION THAT WE NEED A TOTAL GAME CHANGER IF WE’RE GOING TO HAVE ANY HOPE OF BEATING THEM BACK. AND I NEVER CARED MUCH FOR DANTE, REALLY. CHAUCER WAS MORE OF MY FORTE. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE____|IT‘S A GOOD QUESTION, FOR SURE. I ASK MYSELF SOMETHING SIMILAR ALL THE TIME; WHAT WOULD OUR SPARTANS HAVE BECOME, HAD WE NOT DONE WHAT WE‘D DONE TO THEM? IT‘S AN UGLY TRUTH THAT A LOT OF THEM WOULD HAVE BEEN KILLED BY THE COVENANT…BUT WE DREW FROM INNER COLONIES, AS WELL AS THE PERIPHERY. MAYBE 338 WOULD HAVE BEEN A DOCTOR. OR 349 A POLITICIAN. OR 329 A HOLOVID STAR. ALL WHAT IF‘S, THAT ARE NEVER GOING TO COME TRUE.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|.

ALRIGHT THEN, I’LL TRUST YOUR JUDGEMENT ON IT. MY COUNSELORS ARE REPORTING A FEW SMALL SUCCESSES---ALONGSIDE A LOT OF CHALLENGES---SO I’LL LET THEM DEAL WITH IT FOR NOW. AND THAT’S GOOD NEWS ABOUT THE OTHER TRAINEES. SOUND’S LIKE YOU HAVE IT UNDER CONTROL---THOUGH IF YOU NEED HELP WITH ANYTHING, JUST GIVE ME A NOTICE AND I’LL DO WHATEVER YOU NEED---MY WORKLOAD IS STILL VERY LIGHT, GIVEN THE STRAIN EVERYONE ELSE IS UNDER. I FEEL A LITTLE GUILTY TAKING BREAKS WHEN THE DI’S ARE GOING AROUND THE CLOCK TO GET THEM READY FOR AUGMENTATION. I REALLY HATE GETTING OLD. I TRIED TO HELP OUT WITH THE IN-SUIT TRAINING (AS I’M SURE DEAN TOLD YOU) AND GOT MY ASS HANDED TO ME BY SEVERAL OF THE TRAINEES. I HAVEN’T GONE NEAR THE SUITS SINCE; I FEEL PRETTY DAMN USELESS, TO TELL THE TRUTH. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE_________|THANK YOU, BUT THE ONLY PROBLEM I SEE IS CONTACTING THEM. I‘M STILL NOT SURE ONI WILL KEEP ME ON WITH THE PROJECT AFTET IT‘S CONCLUSION---THAT‘S ONE I‘M GOING OT HAVE TO FIGHT WITH RICH ABOUT. AND IF I‘M NOT IN A POSITION TO CONTACT THEM, THERE‘S NO WAY I‘LL BE ABLE TO TELL THEM (THOUGH, KNOWING 341, THEY MIGHT JUST GO FOR IT ON THEIR OWN)|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

GIVEN THE CHOICES, PERHAPS NOT. I DON’T THINK THE GOVERNOR WOULD WORK OUT TO WELL (I WON’T BE BOOKING ANY TRIPS OUT SYSTEM FOR A LONG WHILE, I THINK) AND I DON’T THINK I’D BE COMFORTABLE “WOOING” NURSE STROUD---BEYOND THE OBVIOUS DIFFICULTIES, I HAVE A THING ABOUT WIDOWS. I DON’T FEEL LIKE THAT’S REALLY MY PLACE. SO MAYBE I’LL REWORD THINGS; IF YOU GET ME A NICE, UNCOMPLICATED WOMAN (A MISNOMER, I KNOW) I’LL BE SURE TO OBLIGE YOU. AND I’D NEVER HAVE EXPECTED IT, BUT I GUESS YOU PROBABLY KNOW MORE ABOUT BROTHELS THAN I DO---I NEVER WAS THE KIND TO FREQUENT THEM, IF YOU CATCH MY MEANING. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE_____|IF YOU SAY SO, I GUESS. ALL I KNOW IS THAT YOU‘RE A MUCH BETTER TEACHER THAN I‘LL EVER BE, AND THAT THE KIDS RESPECT YOU. OTHER‘S MAY HAVE BEEN ABLE TO HANDLE IT BETTER, BUT THAT‘S TRUE FOR EVERYTHING, ISN‘T IT? JUST BECAUSE SOMEONE ELSE IS POTENTIALLY BETTER DOESN‘T MEAN YOUR NOT GOOD AT IT. AND I‘M SORRY, I FORGOT THAT YOU WERE IN BROWN WITH 144. I DIDN’T MEAN TO DREDGE ANY BAD MEMORIES UP. AND THAT‘S ANOTHER REASON WHY I DON‘T LIKE HALSEY---PICKING FAVORITES I NO WAY TO TRAIN SOLDIERS. |ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

HOW VERY INDEPDENDENT OF YOU. I PERSONALLY WOULD LIKE TO, JUST TO SEE THE LOOK ON HER FACE WHEN SHE HEARD ABOUT IT. A NASTY SHOCK OR TWO WOULD DO HER SOME GOOD. AND DO YOU WANT ACKERSON TO KNOW OF YOUR EXISTENCE? IF I WERE A SIERRA OPERATING “OFF THE GRID”, SO TO SPEAK, THE LAST THING I’D WANT IS TO HAVE HIM CRAWLING ALL OVER ME. HE’D PROBABLY END UP TRADING YOU LIKE A DAMNED PRIZE TO GET HIMSELF A PROMOTION OR HELP SUPPORT ONE OF HIS PROJECTS. AS FOR MY DEFINITION OF “SLEAZY”, I GUESS I’M A BIT OLD FASHIONED. YOU YOUNGSTERS AND YOUR “FREE LOVE” WHILE ON DEPLOYMENT DON’T DO ANYTHIG BUT BEFUDDLE ME. AND I’LL TELL YOU WHO CAN’T SEE CRIMSON AS ADORABLE: ME. WHEN I GOT CREAMED THE OTHER DAY IN THE SUIT TRAINING, 319 MADE A JOKE I’D RATHER NOT REPEAT THAT GOT THE WHOLE ROOM LAUGHING AT MY EXPENSE. CALL ME PRIDEFUL, BUT I DON’T PARTICULARRILY LIKE BEING MADE A FOOL OF---BY 15 YEAR OLDS. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE____________|AH, GOOD TO HEAR YOUR NOT TO TOUCHY. WOULDN‘T WANT TO BRUISE YOUR EGO, WOULD I? I ADMIRE YOUR CLARITY, BECAUSE YOU SEEM TO UNDERSTAND YOURSELF MUCH BETTER THAN I DO. I DON‘T KNOW WHAT I‘M FEELING HALF THE TIME ANYMORE. AND BY THE WAY, IF YOU CAN REALLY INTERCEPT MESSAGES LIKE THAT, WOULD YOU MIND TUTORING A CERTAIN INQUISITIVE MIND? I CAN SEE A FEW HELPFUL USES FOR SUCH A SKILL.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

ENRYPTION CODE: INDIGO-INDIGO-SIERRA-NOVEMBER-ALPHA

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: CPT (0-3) <font color=White>LIMA KILO 

TO: COL (0-6) <font color=White>GAMMA SIERRA 

'''SUBJECT: RE: PROJECT ARES, PART 3 '''

I GUESS 18TH CENTURY ARISTOCRAT WIGS AREN'T YOUR THING, THEN? SAD, I THINK YOU'D A LOOK GOOD IN ONE. AND IF WE NEED A GAMECHANGER SO BADLY, WE JUST HAVE TO WORK TOWARDS FINDING ONE, RIGHT? IN THE MEANTIME, TAKE UP PAINTING LIKE I DO; IF YOU'RE FEELING DOWN, JUST DRAW SOMETHING SAD. THEN SELL IT AND EARN A FEW BUCKS! I COULD TEACH YOU, IF YOU LIKE - I'M AN EXCELLENT PAINTER, BELIEVE IT OR NOT. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE___|IN FACT, ONE OF MY WORKS WAS AUCTIONED OFF RECENTLY (BY A MIDDLE-HAND, A FRIEND OF MINE, OBVIOUSLY) TO SOME RICH COLLECTOR ON BETA GABRIEL FOR A WHOOPING 10,000 cR. I'M NOT KEEPING THAT FOR MYSELF, OBVIOUSLY; I USED 11% TO COMPENSATE SOME OF MY CONTACTS FOR THE RISKS I'VE PUT THEM THROUGH, THE REST I TRANSFERRED TO YOUR ACCOUNT (SURPRISED TO SEE A BONUS TO YOUR PAYCHECK? SO SORRY TO TELL YOU IT WASN'T BECAUSE YOU WERE VOTED EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH). IN ALL SERIOUSNESS, I TRUST YOU TO SPEND IT WELL; IT'S NOT NEARLY ENOUGH TO INSTALL MAJOR UPGRADES INTO THE SPI SUITS OR ANYTHING, BUT MAYBE SOME NEW MEDICAL SUPPLIES AND SUCH?|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

YEAH, DEAN TOLD ME; WISH I HAD BEEN THERE. I'D WELCOME SEEING A SUPERIOR OFFICER GETTING HIS ASS WHOPPED ANYDAY. BUT REMEMBER THAT YOU AIN'T A SPARTAN, SO DON'T FEEL BAD FOR LOSING TO THEM, SUPERIOR ARMOR OR NOT. THY ARMOR DOSETH NOT MAKETH THY WARRIOR, POETICALLY SPOKEN. DAMN, THAT REMINDED ME OF JUSTIN (A FELLOW SIERRA). HEH, WE CALLED HIM "THE POETIC SPARTAN". OR AT LEAST I AND HIS TEAMMATES DID. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE__________|YOU'VE GOT MY SUPPORT TO STAY, LITTLE AS THAT MAY BE. AND YES, COMMUNICATION MIGHT BE A PROBLEM, BUT LIKE YOU SAID THERE'S ALSO A BIG CHANCE THEY MANAGE IT ON THEIR OWN. ONLY TIME WILL TELL, I GUESS.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

HMM, GOOD POINT; COME TO THINK OF IT, IT'D BE HARD TO FILE A DIVORCE AGAINST THE GOVERNOR WITHOUT YOU GOING BANKRUPT. AND I CAN UNDERSTAND HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT WIDOWS (I DON'T AGREE, THOUGH; AS I SEE IT, SOME COMFORT COULD DO THEM GOOD, ESPECIALLY BECAUSE OF THEIR GRIEF). BUT DON'T WORRY, I'VE GOT MORE (AND CLOSER TO YOUR REWORDED SPECIFICS). ROSALINDA WHITTLESEY - A RATHER UNCOMPLICATED PIOUS CATHOLIC, THOUGH PRAYS A LITTLE TOO MUCH FOR MY TASTE (MIGHT BE A TURN-ON FOR YOU, THOUGH, WHO KNOWS?); JENDAYI AGAHOWA - A REALLY NICE LADY FROM NEW MOMBASA WORKING WITH THE POLICE DEPARTMENT (DISLIKES THE COMMISSIONER - KINSLER - QUITE A BIT); TANISHA DZIEDZIC - A POPULAR ARMY CAPTAIN BRIEFLY (AND AGAINST HER WISHES) ENLISTED BY ONI FOR LIAISON PURPOSES (MIGHT UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU'RE GOING THROUGH, RIGHT?). JUST GIVE A WINK IF YOU WANT MORE (OR MEANS OF CONTACT IN CASE YOU'RE INTERESTED IN ONE OF THE ABOVE). <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|IT'S ALLRIGHT. HE ACTED A BIT BETTER WHEN HE WAS IN BROWN; TO PLEASE MENDEZ, NO DOUBT. THAT MAN WAS THE ONLY PERSON LEO EVER RESPECTED. WE ALL RESPECTED HIM. EVEN ME. AND YOU MAY NOT WANT TO BELIEVE IT, BUT GROWING STRONGER ATTACHMENT TO SOME INDIVIDUALS THAN TO OTHERS IS SOMETHING WE DO SUBCONSCIOUSLY. WHAT'S IMPORTANT IS THAT WE DON'T ACT ON THOSE EMOTIONS, OR AT LEAST LIMIT THE OCCASSIONS WE DO SO. YOU KNOW I LIKE ROGER, CONNOR, RACHEL AND BALDUIN A LOT. WHAT I HAVEN'T DONE IS GIVE THEM SPECIAL TREATMENT. HALSEY'S PICKS TURNED OUT GOOD, NO DENYING THAT (JOHN WAS INDEED THE BEST CHOICE FOR LEADER, AND THOUGH AJAX COULD HAVE GONE BADLY, HE ENDED UP ALRIGHT), BUT I DIDN'T TAKE THAT RISK WITH THESE CANDIDATES. AND I DON'T REGRET THAT DECISION (LET'S FACE IT; IT'D HAVE BEEN DISASTROUS IF I MADE RACHEL LEADER OF THE WHOLE CONTINGENT).|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

YEAH, YOU ARE OLD-FASHIONED. BUT GIVEN YOUR BALDING SCALP, I'LL CUT YOU SOME SLACK. AND YOU'VE GOT TO LEARN TO LAUGH WITH THEM; DON'T LET YOURSELF BE LAUGHED AT, THEN THEY'LL JUST LOSE RESPECT FOR YOU. THEY PLANTED A SIGNAL ROCKET INSIDE MY ROOM TWO YEARS BACK, YOU DIDN'T SEE ME HIDING IN THE CORNER OUT OF SHAME AFTER IT BLEW AND SET MY UNIFORM ON FIRE (THOUGH I DID GET SWEET VENGEANCE BY MAKING DEAN RUN THEM ALL DAY LONG IN THE CAVES OUTSIDE THE BASE RATHER THAN THE FIELDS INSIDE). <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE____________|SURE, I CAN TEACH YOU. I'VE ATTACHED INSTRUCTIONS TO THIS MESSAGE. I'D BE WATCHING AND HELPING YOU LEARN IT PERSONALLY, BUT SOMEHOW I DON'T IMAGINE RICH WOULD AGREE TO ME TUTORING YOU IN POTENTIALLY "DANGEROUS" TALENTS.|ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

ENRYPTION CODE: TANG-WHISKEY-INDIGO-BRAVO

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: COL (0-6) <font color=White>GAMMA SIERRA 

TO: CPT (0-3) <font color=White>LIMA KILO 

'''SUBJECT: RE: PROJECT ARES, PART 3 '''

NO, I‘M MORE OF A MODERN MAN MYSELF (THOUGH I AM A BIT FOND OF OLDER VERBIAGE AND PHRASES, I‘LL ADMIT). AS FOR A GAMECHANGER, I AGREE THAT WE HAVE TO LOOK FOR ONE…BUT THAT‘S ALSO EASIER SAID THAN DONE? WHERE DO WE EVEN START? TRY AND REPURPOSE THEIR TECHNOLOGY? WE‘RE ALREADY WORKING ON THAT, WITH LIMITED SUCCESS. I SEE FEW OTHER OPTIONS, BESIDES PERHAPS FLEEING. AND I WISH I COULD PAINT, BUT I‘M A TERRIBLE ARTIST. I TRIED AN ART CLASS ONCE IN COLLEGE, BECAUSE MY PROFESSORS THOUGHT I WAS “TOO INTENSE“. I ENDED UP DROPPING IT AFTER THREE MONTHS (THE ONLY CLASS I EVER DROPPED, ACTUALLY). STYLE OF FORM AND COLOR BLENDING ARE NOT MY CUP OF TEA. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE___|HA…NOT EXACTLY A CONVENTIONAL MANNER, BUT I GUESS EVERYTHING HELPS. PRETTY IMPRESSIVE, HOWEVER. YOU’RE A MAN OF MANY TALENTS, I GUESS. AND DON‘T WORRY, I‘LL MAKE SURE THE FUNDS GET USED WELL. ONI IS GIVING US MOST OF WHAT WE NEED IN TERMS OF REGULAR MEDICAL SUPPLIES, BUT SPECIAL STUFF---MEDICAL SUPPLIES THAT THEY DON‘T THINK WE NEED A USE FOR---ARE NOT INCLUDED. I‘LL SEE ABOUT MAKING UP FOR THAT DISRECPANCY. |ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

OH, HE DID, DID HE? I MIGHT JUST HAVE TO REPRIMAND HIM FOR THAT---AKA, BEAT HIM UP MYSELF (IF I CAN, THAT IS; SOMETIMES I SWEAR HE’S JUST AS STRONG AND FAST AS YOU SPARTANS). AS FOR JUSTIN, I THINK THAT MIGHT HAVE BEEN QUOTED SOMEWHERE. I SWEAR I’VE HEARD IT IN A SIERRA-RELATED DOCUMENT. YOU SPARTANS SURE DO HAVE SOME CREATIVE ABILITIES; I READ A REPORT BY FHAJAD THE OTHER DAY ON SLIPSTREAM MECHANICS, AND IT MADE ME REALIZE HOW MUCH MORE DIVERSE YOU GUYS ARE THAN THE AVERAGE PERSON THINKS. IT WAS A LITTLE INSPIRING, ACTUALLY; I ENDED UP SPENDING HALF THE NIGHT READING A REPORT ON THE ABUSE POTENTIAL OF UNSC CLASSIFCATION SYSTEMS BY A CERTAIN MICHAEL-A306 (ONE OF THE S-III ALPHA KIDS WHO GOT WASTED DURING PROMETHUS). ENLIGHTENING AND ENTERTAINING STUFF.<font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE__________|THANK YOU, THAT ACTUALLY MEANS A LOT. I AM SURE THAT ONI WON‘T WANT ME TO STAY ON, SO I‘M GATHERING WHAT REMAINING CLOUT I HAVE LEFT WITH RICH AND ATTEMPTING TO PRESERVE IT---AND I THINK HE PROBABLY RESPECTS YOU (EVEN IF HE IS A SCARY BASTARD). AS FOR CRIMSON, I THINK IT‘S BEST NOT TO TELL THEM YET. I‘VE BEEN LOOKING UP SOME MORE…DISCREET MESSAGING TECHNIQUES, AND I‘M PRETTY SURE I CAN SLIP A NOTICE UNDER THE RADAR TO THEM IF PRESSED. |ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

DIVORCE? SON, IF I’M GETTING MARRIED, THEN I BETTER KNOW DAMN SURE BEFORE HAND I WANT TO BE WITH THEM. I DON’T PARTICULARRILY LIKE DOING THINGS BY HALF MEASURES. AND I’VE GOT TO ADMIT, I’M IMPRESSED. YOUR VERY WELL TRAVELED, TO SAY THE LEAST. AS FOR YOUR “SELECTIONS”, I CAN SEE A FEW OBVIOUS PROBLEMS WITH SOME OF THEM (OUT OF SYSTEM GIRLS ARE A NO-NO, BECAUSE I’M NOT GOING TO LEAVE HERE ANYTIME SOON, SO I THINK THAT MOMBASSA GIRL IS OUT) BUT IF THAT ARMY LIASON YOU MENTIONED EVER PASSES BY, LET ME KNOW. I CAN ALWAYS APPRECIATE EXASPERATION AT ONI’S SHENNANIGANS. <font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE______|EVEN SO, I‘M SORRY. THOUGH MOVING ON, I DO RATHER WISH I‘D HAD THE OPPURTUNITY TO MEET MENDEZ. FROM ALL THAT I’VE HEARD, HE SEEMS LIKE A GOOD MAN; I CAN SEE WHY YOU ALL LOOKED UP TO HIM. AND I IMAGINE YOUR RIGHT ABOUT PICKING FAVORITES SUBCONSCIOUSLY (THOUGH I HAVE TO WONDER NOW, WHO ARE MY FAVORITES? DEFINITELY NOT 341 AND COMPANY---OR 347.  OR IS THAT THE POINT?  I DON’T PICK FAVORITES BUT DO PICK ANTI-FAVORITES?  NOW I REMEMBER WHY PSYCHOLOGY ALWAYS CONFUSED ME SO MUCH IN HIGH SCHOOL). ALSO, I THINK IT’S WORTHWHILE TO POINT OUT THAT I DON’T THINK ANY WOULD HAVE MADE A GOOD CONTINGENT COMMANDER; FOR BETTER OR WORSE, OUR SPARTANS ARE FUNDAMENTALLY DIFFERENT FROM HALSEY’S IN THAT THEY’RE A LOT MORE DISPARATE; FROM WHAT I UNDERSTAND, TEAMS SHIFTED AND CARRIED LESS SIGNIFICANCE FOR YOUR CLASS, WHILE FOR OUR KIDS, THEY’RE CLOSER THAN FAMILY. EVEN THE ONES WHO ARE, WITHOUT A DOUBT, EXCELLENT LEADERS (363, 338, 309) WOULDN’T HAVE MADE GOOD COMMANDERS. THEY ARE ALL JUST TO SEPERATED. |ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

WELL, THANKS FOR RUBBING THAT ONE IN. OH, AND FEEL FREE TO MENTION THE RECEDING HAIRLINE WHENEVER YOU WANT, TOO. I JUST LOVE TALKING ABOUT IT, AFTER ALL. MY FAVORITE FRIGGING SUBJECT. AND I DO MY BEST TO LAUGH WITH THEM, AND FOR THE MOST PART, THINGS WORK OUT PRETTY MUCH LIKE YOU SAID THEY SHOULD. 319 JUST HAS A TALENT FOR BEING A SMART-ASS THOUGH. (BUT SINCE YOU MENTIONED IT, YOUR STORY WAS VERY ENTERTAINING).<font color=Red>|ENCRYPTED SECTION: CODE____________|THANK YOU. AND I IMAGINE “OFF HAND“ INSTRUCTION IS PROBABLY FOR THE BEST. IT REALLY WOULD BE BEST THAT RICH AND THE OTHER SPOOK MENAGERIE DON‘T FIND OUT ABOUT THIS WHOLE THING. I‘M NOT PLANNING ON USING IT FOR THEIR ADVANTAGE, AFTER ALL. |ENCRYPTED SECTION: END|

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

SECRET CORRESPONDENCE S5P01-CNR38
ENRYPTION CODE: OCTOBER

PUBLIC KEY: N/A

FROM: GEN (0-10) <font color=White>CHARLIE BRAVO 

TO: CPT (0-6) <font color=White>SEAHAWK 

SUBJECT: MORE OPERATIVES

HAWK, I’LL BE BRIEF. AS YOUR UNDOUBTLEY WELL AWARE, WE’RE FACED WITH A MAJOR HURDLE FOR OUR PROGRAM. OPERATIVE 144 HAS APPARENTLY BEEN DEPLOYED ONE TO MANY TIMES, AND OTHER ELEMENTS OF ONI ARE STARTING TO GET SUSPICIOUS. WE MAY HAVE NO MORE THAN A FEW MORE YEARS BEFORE THEY GET THEIR HANDS ON HIM, AND ONCE THEY DO, WE’RE UNLIKELY TO SEE HIM AGAIN. I UNDERSTAND SECTION III HAS COOPERATED IN THE PAST, BUT TIMES ARE CHANGING, AND LEADERS ARE STEPPING DOWN AND BEING REPLACED WITH NEW ONES WHOSE MEMORY ISN’T QUITE SO LONG.

OPERATIVE 144 HAS BEEN INVALUABLE FOR OUR OPERATIONS OVER THE LAST FIFTY YEARS, AND HAS CONSISTENTLY OUTPEFORMED ALL OF OUR OTHER AGENTS, AND WITHOUT HIM WE WILL HAVE A MUCH HARDER TIME PERFORMING SOME OF OUR MORE SENSIVTIVE MISSIONS. EVEN THE NEW TYPE 23 DRONES WON‘T BE ABLE TO PICK UP THE SLACK. WE NEED ANOTHER SIERRA TO REPLACE HIM, WHICH MEANS EXTRACTING ONE FROM CURRENT OPERATIONS. I REVIEWED SOME OLD LOGS AND FOUND MIKE ALPHA CONSCRIPTED YOU FOR THE ORIGINAL EXTRACTION OF 144 EXTRACTION. WELL, AS LUCK WOULD HAVE IT, I’LL BE NEEDING YOUR SERVICES ONCE AGAIN.

ONE OF OUR FIELD AGENTS, KILO TANGO, HAS BEEN OBSERVING SEVERAL CANDIDATES FOR A FEW YEARS, AND BELIEVES SHE’S FOUND ONE. HE’S NOT A II, BUT HE’S CLOSE ENOUGH, AND HE’S GOT MORE CURRENT COMBAT EXPERIENCE THAN MANY OF THEM. WORD ON THE STREET IS THAT HE’S AN EXCELLENT SNIPER AND A WILLINGINESS TO MAKE TOUGH DECISIONS. HE’S GOT A BIT OF A CONSCIENCE PROBLEM, BUT WE’LL WORK AROUND THAT.

WE NEED THE OPERATIVE QUICKLY, SO DEPLOY ASAP AND BRING HIM IN. KILO TANGO CONFIRMS HE’S JUST FINISHED WITH HIS TOUR IN THE OP: ERIDANUS CAMPAIGN, SO THE SOONER YOU CAN GRAB HIM, THE LESS LIKELY IT IS THAT ANOTHER ELEMENT OF ONI WILL GET TO HIM FIRST. SECTION I HAS BEEN SNIFFING AROUND, AND I DON’T WANT A POTENTIAL OPERATIVE SNATCHED BY THE GEEK SQUAD. GET THIS DONE.

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

TRANSMISSION 10856
ENCRYPTION CODE: DELTA-29 PUBLIC KEY: N/A FROM: CPT (0-3) LIMA KILO TO: COL (0-6) GOLF SIERRA SUBJECT: GET BETTER

HEY, OLD MAN! HOPE YOU’RE FEELING GOOD ENOUGH TO REMEMBER ALL THE OLD ENCRYPTION CODES. I ASSUMED YOU WOULD – UNLESS YOU BLEW OUT PARTS OF YOUR BRAIN WHEN YOU TRIED TO DO YOURSELF IN. SPEAKING OF WHICH...

WHAT THE HELL, GRIFF? I KNEW YOU WERE ALWAYS PESSIMISTIC – OR AT LEAST MORE SO THAN ME – BUT TRYING TO KILL YOURSELF? I THOUGHT YOU WERE BETTER THAN THAT. IF YOU WERE FEELING DOWN, YOU SHOULD HAVE TOLD US ABOUT IT. RACHEL, BAL AND I DON’T MIND TAKING A BREAK FROM LOOKING FOR JOHN OR CAPPING BRUTE CHIEFTAINS FOR COVERT OPS, IF THAT’S WHAT YOU WORRIED ABOUT. AND ROGER’S TECHNICALLY A CIVILIAN NOW – THERE’S NOTHING STOPPING YOU FROM ASKING HIM TO COME OVER FOR A VISIT.

SORRY, I DON’T MEAN TO BE ANGRY WITH YOU. I PROBABLY SHOULDN’T BE, CONSIDERING I ALMOST TOOK MYSELF OUT ONCE, TOO. BUT I JUST THOUGHT THAT YOU WERE BETTER THAN THAT. BETTER THAN ME.

I GUESS I SHOULD TELL YOU ALL ABOUT IT FIRST, OR YOU MAY NOT LISTEN TO ME (MUCH LIKE AARON DIDN'T). BACK DURING THE AUGMENTATIONS PROCESS – I BROKE DOWN. I THOUGHT I WAS READY FOR IT, SINCE I HAD LIVED THROUGH IT MYSELF ONCE. BUT IT TURNED OUT I WASN’T READY TO SEE MY – OUR – KIDS GOING THROUGH THE SAME PROCEDURE. I BROKE DOWN, DIDN’T KNOW WHAT TO DO. SO I GOT DRUNK, BROKE THINGS, INSULTED A NURSE WHO WAS JUST DOING HER JOB, AND FOUGHT DEAN HAND-TO-HAND. BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY, I SERIOUSLY CONSIDERED BITING THE BULLET. EVEN BEFORE I STARTED DRINKING, I SERIOUSLY CONTEMPLATED GRABBING THE GUN INSTEAD OF THE BOTTLE.

BUT YOU KNOW WHAT I REALIZED (WITH DEAN’S HELP)? SUICIDE IS THE COWARD’S WAY OUT – FOR THOSE WHO REFUSE TO BELIEVE THEY HAVE ANYTHING LEFT TO LIVE FOR. I STILL HAD THINGS TO LIVE FOR – I HAD THE SURVIVORS, THE CRIPPLED, FRIENDS LIKE YOU AND DEAN, AND A WOMAN WHO WOULD NEVER FORGIVE ME IF I DIED. AND YOU KNOW WHAT? THOUGH MORE OF OUR KIDS DIED, THE ONES WHO LIVED ON BENEFITTED FROM ME BEING ALIVE. WHAT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED IF I TOOK MY LIFE INSTEAD? RACHEL WOULD PROBABLY BE LOCKED UP IN AN ASYLUM OR DEAD IN A DITCH ON AN OUTER COLONY SOMEWHERE. AARON’S SUICIDE WOULDN’T HAVE BEEN A SINGLE TRAGIC OCCURRENCE BUT FURTHER PRECEDENT FOR THE OTHER CRIPPLES WHOSE CHANCES WERE SLIM TO DO THE SAME THING.

DO YOU UNDERSTAND NOW, GRIFF? YOU’RE NOT ALONE. YOU STILL HAVE PEOPLE WHO CARE ABOUT YOU – PEOPLE WHO WOULD NEVER FORGIVE YOU IF YOU REMOVED YOURSELF FROM THEIR LIVES BY KILLING YOURSELF. OR WORSE, SOME OF THEM MAY CONTEMPLATE THE SAME THING IF YOU DO YOURSELF IN. IS THAT REALLY WHAT YOU WANT?

I’M NOT GOING TO FORCE YOU TO DO ANYTHING. ALL I ASK IS THAT YOU CONSIDER EVERYTHING I’VE WRITTEN ABOVE BEFORE YOU TRY AGAIN. HOPEFULLY YOU’LL LEARN, LIKE I DID – BUT IF NOT, WELL, KNOW THAT I’LL MISS YOU, OLD-TIMER. RACHEL AND BAL GIVE THEIR REGARDS, TOO, AND I EXPECT YOU’LL HEAR FROM ROGER SOON.

//PRESS ENTER TO CONTINUE//

TRANSCRIPT #43
EVALUATOR: SAKURA KISHIMOTO (CIVILIAN ID#: 5342-719-3498-T) SUBJECT: RACHEL [REDACTED] (SERVICE #: SPARTAN-343 / ARES-43)

[RACHEL ENTERS THE ROOM AND SITS DOWN AT THE EVALUATOR’S PROMPTING.]

KISHIMOTO: HELLO, RACHEL. HOW ARE YOU DOING?

RACHEL: GOOD, I GUESS.

[RACHEL LOOKS AWAY FROM KISHIMOTO AND RETRIEVES A LIGHTER FROM HER POCKET, STARTING TO FLICK IT ON AND OFF.]

KISHIMOTO: ERR, RACHEL, WOULD YOU PLEASE PUT THAT AWAY?

RACHEL: WHY? IS IT DISTRACTING YOU?

[RACHEL STARES AT KISHIMOTO. KISHIMOTO SEEMS TO INVOLUNTARY FALL BACK INTO HER CHAIR.]

KISHIMOTO: LOOK, RACHEL, IF YOU KEEP DOING THAT I MIGHT HAVE TO CALL THE DIs OUTSIDE TO TAKE IT FROM YOU.

RACHEL: SO WHAT? I CAN ALWAYS TAKE ANOTHER ONE LATER.

[KISHIMOTO MOVES UNEASILY IN HER SEAT.]

KISHIMOTO: RACHEL, IT’S NOT NICE TO TAKE OTHER PEOPLE’S THINGS. NOW, WOULD YOU PLEASE PUT THAT AWAY? OTHERWISE, I WILL HAVE TO FILE A REPORT OF THIS TO CAPTAIN KATONA.

[RACHEL ROLLS HER EYES, SIGHS FRUSTRATEDLY, AND PUTS THE LIGHTER BACK IN HER POCKET.]

KISHIMOTO: THANK YOU, RACHEL. THEN LET US CONTINUE. DO YOU LIKE IT HERE?

RACHEL: BEATS BEING GLASSED. DO YOU?

KISHIMOTO: WHAT?

RACHEL: DO YOU LIKE IT HERE?

KISHIMOTO: I...I’M AFRAID THAT’S NOT RELEVANT RIGHT NOW.

RACHEL: WHAT? YOU’RE ASKING ME QUESTIONS. WHY CAN’T I ASK YOU? DO YOU THINK YOU’RE BETTER THAN ME? IS THAT IT?

[RACHEL’S HAND SUBTLY GLIDES TOWARDS HER POCKET.]

KISHIMOTO: WHAT!? I...NO, I DON’T THINK...THAT IS TO SAY...

[KISHIMOTO STARTS SWEATING.]

RACHEL: NEVER MIND. I THINK I KNOW THE ANSWER.

[KISHIMOTO STARTS TO LOOK PANICKED.]

RACHEL: WE WALKED PAST THE MESS HALL ONCE. I SAW YOU SAT BY A TABLE ALL BY YOURSELF, QUIETLY EATING YOUR MEAL.

[KISHIMOTO SHIFTS AROUND UNCOMFORTABLY.]

KISHIMOTO: I, AH, APPRECIATE YOUR CONCERN, RACHEL. BUT THIS DISCUSSION IS ABOUT YOU. ARE...ARE YOU MAKING ANY FRIENDS?

RACHEL: MORE THAN YOU.

[KISHIMOTO LOOKS AWAY, BREATHING HEAVILY.]

RACHEL: YOU HATE IT HERE, DON’T YOU DOC? NOT MAKING FRIENDS IN A STRANGE PLACE, FAR AWAY FROM YOUR HUSBAND.

[RACHEL INDICATES KISHIMOTO’S LEFT HAND, MORE SPECIFICALLY THE GOLDEN RING ON HER RING FINGER. SHE THEN NONCHALANTLY LOOKS AWAY AND PICKS UP HER LIGHTER AGAIN. KISHIMOTO FRANTICALLY PUSHES A BUTTON ON HER DESK.]

KISHIMOTO: SE...SECURITY! PLEASE, TAKE HER OUT.

[TWO DIs ENTER. ONE GRABS HOLD OF THE LIGHTER, WHILE THE OTHER NUDGES RACHEL TOWARDS THE DOOR. BEFORE THEY STEP OUT OF THE ROOM, RACHEL’S HAND CAN BE SEEN GRABBING THE LIGHTER BACK FROM THE DI’S POCKET.]

//END TRANSCRIPT

<font color=White>SPARTAN-343
(as of January 1, 2587) RACHEL

LIEUTENANT, JUNIOR GRADE
 * FULL NAME: HAWKE, RACHEL
 * SERVICE #: S-343


 * UNIT:
 * NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/CYAN TEAM (FORMER)
 * SPECWARCOM/GROUP FIVE/SIENNA TEAM (CURRENT)
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS: ACTIVE

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: F
 * BIRTPLACE: PINE MOUNTAIN, KHOLO
 * BIRTH DATE: 07/01/2535

CRUDE AND BRUTAL, BUT EXTREMELY EFFICIENT. VERY ANALYTICAL AND EXCELLENT AT IMPROVISATION (CLAIMS OF WHIPPING JACKAL ATTACKERS WITH A LOOSE PYTHON SNAKE SUCCESSFULLY CONFIRMED). TENDS TO FORGET MILITARY BEHAVIORAL PROTOCOLS (INTENTIONAL OR UNINTENTIONAL UNKNOWN - THE FORMER SEEMS MOST LIKELY, BASED ON AI SCANS), BUT IS AT THE SAME TIME A HIGHLY CAPABLE SOLDIER. MAY BE THE BEST OF THE ARES SOLDIERS (TIE WITH [S-338] AND [S-341]).

COMMENTS:

HAS AN ODD FASCINATION WITH FIRE (THREE KNOWN THERAPY SESSIONS AGAINST PYROMANIA SO FAR). POSSIBLE RESURGENCY OF PYROMANIC SYMPTOMS EXPECTED EVENTUALLY. OCASSIONALLY FLIRTATIOUS BEHAVIOR AROUND MALE JUNIOR OFFICERS (BREACHES OF FRATERNIZATION PROTOCOLS SO FAR UNCONFIRMED).

NOTE(S):

RECOMMEND CONTINUED WATCH IN CASE OF PYROMANIC RESURGENCY. ALSO MAKE NOTE UNIQUE GENETIC PATTERN; SHE APPEARS, ALONG WITH ONE OTHER CANDIDATE, TO HAVE THE FULL GENETIC MARKERS FOR OPTIMUM SPARTANS

<font color=White>SPARTAN-338
(as of January 1, 2587) CONNOR

LIEUTENANT
 * FULL NAME: RILEY, CONNOR
 * SERVICE #: S-338


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/TAN TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS: CLASSIFIED

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: M
 * BIRTHPLACE: APHRODITE, TITAN-II
 * BIRTH DATE: 14/5/2534

SMART, FAST, AND TOUGH WITH VARIED ARRAY OF SKILLSETS. CAPABLE LEADER WITH A NATURAL ABILITY TO CONNECT WITH SUBORDINATES AND STRONG TACTICAL AND STRATEGIC INSIGHT. EMPHASIZES DEEPLY WITH SUBORDINATES AND SUPERIORS ALIKE. CRACK SHOT WITH A SNIPER RIFLE, BUT ALSO PASSABLY PROFIECIENT IN CLOSE QUARTERS. OPTIMISTIC NO MATTER THE SITUATION, BUT NEVER ATTEMPTS TO BE COMICAL. SERIOUS IN COMBAT, BUT RELAXES WELL OFF DUTY. VERY AMIABLE. SKILLED AT LEADING BUT EQUALLY CONTENT TO LET SOMEONE ELSE TAKE COMMAND.

COMMENTS:

STRONG CONNECTIONS WITH TEAMATES CAN SOMETIMES PROVE PROBLEMATIC, AS HE CAN BECOME EMOTIONALLY OVERRELIANT ON OTHERS, SOMETIMES WITH DISASTOROUS CONSEQUENCES. OCCASSIONALLY EXPRESSES DOUBT IN HIS OWN TACTICAL AND STRATEGIC INSIGHT DESPITE STRENGTH, DUE TO SEVERAL FAILED OPERATIONS. HISTORY OF ANGER, DEPRESSION, AND ISOLATION ISSUES, ALL IN RESPONSE TO LOSS OF TEAMATE. STRONG SENSE OF RIGHT AND WRONG. HAS HAD PROBLEMS IN THE PAST WITH TAKING ISSUES PERSONALLY.

NOTE(S):

RECOMMEND SCREENING FOR MENTAL ISSUES IN THE CASE OF FAILED MISSIONS, OR SUCCESSFUL MISSIONS THAT RESULT IN FRIENDLY CASUALTIES. ALSO MAKE NOTE UNIQUE GENETIC PATTERN; HE APPEARS, ALONG WITH ONE OTHER CANDIDATE, TO HAVE THE FULL GENETIC MARKERS FOR OPTIMUM SPARTANS

<font color=White>SPARTAN-363
(as of January 1, 2587) MATHEW

MASTER CHIEF PETTY OFFICER
 * FULL NAME: BROOKS, MATHEW
 * SERVICE #: S-363


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/GOLD TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS: ACTIVE

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: M
 * BIRTHPLACE: COLTON, STALLION-IV
 * BIRTH DATE: 9/11/2534

HIGHLY SKILLED FIGHTER AND COMMANDER, WITH AN EYE FOR TACTICS AND A STRONG WILL. VERY STUBBORN. VERY PROFESSIONAL IN AND OUT OF COMBAT, BUT WITH A BIT OF A TEMPER PROBLEM. CAN TRANSLATE INTO ATTITUDE ISSUES. DISLIKES SECRECY AND PREFERS OPEN ASSIGNMENTS. GOOD AT THINKING ON HIS FEET, BUT BETTER EXECUTING CAREFULLY ORCHESTRATED PLANS. ALSO HAS A STRONG AVERSION TO GOSSIP, EVEN FOR A SPARTAN. EXCELLENT AT EVALUATING PEOPLE. DEVISES PLANS THAT PLAY VERY WELL TO THE STRENGTH’S OF HIS TEAMS, EVEN ON THE FLY. DIEHARD LOYALTY TO HIS SQUAD SURPASSED ONLY BY LOYALTY TO UNSC

COMMENTS:

LONG CAREER OF SUCCESSFUL SERVICE AGAINST LONG ODDS HAD MADE HIM SOMEWHAT ARROGANT, AS WITH THE REST OF HIS SQUAD, MADE WORSE BY HIS OWN NATURAL STUBBORNESS. THIS OCCASSIONALLY PROMPTS ATTITUDE PROBLEMS, ALSO MADE WORSE BY HIS TEMPER PROBLEM. MANAGES TO KEEP THESE ISSUES OFF THE BATTLEFIELD, BUT THEY WILL OCCASSIONALLY REAR THEIR HEAD DURING DOWN TIME.

NOTE(S):

VERY SUSPICIOUS OF ONI, PARTICULARILLY SECTION III, IN THE AFTERMATH OF THE [S-312] INCIDENT, THOUGH LESS SO THAN HIS SUBORDINATES. CONFIDENCE IN UNSC STILL HIGH, BUT DISTRUSTS NAVAL INTELLIGENCE IN PARTICULAR.

<font color=White>SPARTAN-359
(as of January 1, 2587) JACKY

SENIOR CHIEF PETTY OFFICER
 * FULL NAME: DAVIS, JACKY
 * SERVICE #: S-359


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/GOLD TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS: ACTIVE

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: F
 * BIRTHPLACE: HERSHIRE, NEW LONDON
 * BIRTH DATE: 6/22/2534

OUTSPOKEN AND OPINIONATED WITH AN EYE FOR DETAIL. VERY PRECISE. HAS VERY CLEAR OPINIONS AND ISN’T AFRAID TO SHARE THEM. NOT MUCH OF A TACTICIAN, BUT IS ODDLY PERCEPTIVE OF OVERALL STRATEGIC OVERVIEWS. KEEN INTEREST IN MILITARY AND CIVILIAN POLITICS. EXCELS AT CLOSE QUARTERS, ESPECIALLY AT REMAINING UNDETECTED. ABILITY TO MAKE USE OF HER SPI ARMOR IS ALMOST SUPERNATURAL. UTTERLY RUTHLESS IN COMBAT, BUT KEEPS A TIGHT REIN ON HER EMOTIONS. ALSO AN EXCEELENT ACTOR.

COMMENTS:

SOMEWHAT ARROGANT, MUCH LIKE THE OTHER MEMBERS OF GOLD. SOMETIMES HAS TROUBLE CONNECTING WITH OTHER PERSONNEL, ESPECIALLY OTHER SIERRAS, BECAUSE OF ARROGANCE AND HER OUTSPOKEN NATURE.

NOTE(S):

HIGHLY SUSPICIOUS OF ONI IN THE AFTERMATH OF [S-312] INCIDENT, ALMOST TO THE POINT OF PARANOIA. STILL CONFIDENT IN NAVY AND MAINLINE UNSC, BUT IS OUTWARDLY HOSTILE TO AGENCY MEMBERS. RECOMMEND KEEPING A CLOSE EYE ON HER IN CASE SUSPICIONS TURN INTO SOMETHING MORE.

<font color=White>SPARTAN-317
(as of January 1, 2587) MASON

SENIOR CHIEF PETTY OFFICER
 * FULL NAME: TRIBBLE, MASON
 * SERVICE #: S-317


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/GOLD TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS: ACTIVE

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: M
 * BIRTHPLACE: SYDNEY, EARTH
 * BIRTH DATE: 11/11/2534

UNOBTRUSIVE AND UNASSUMMING; A CRACK SHOT WITH A SNIPER RIFLE, THOUGH DEFINITELY NOT THE BEST OF THE SIERRA CHALRIE III’S. TALKATIVE AND JOKEFUL DURING OPERATIONS, EVEN MORE SO OFF DUTY. GOLD SEEMS USED TO IT; OTHER OPERATORS HAVE COMMENTED DISFAVORLABLY ON IT. NOT MUCH MORE TO SAY; HE’S A DEDICATED TEAM MEMBER WITH AN EXCELLENT MARKSMAN ABILITY. SOLID UNDER FIRE, BUT STILL PREFERS TO HANG BACK OUT OF COMBAT. INTERESTS SEEM LIMITED TO WEAPONS AND HIS TEAM.

COMMENTS:

A LITTLE COCKY, JUST LIKE THE REST OF GOLD, BUT AT LEAST HE HAS THE STONES TO BACK IT UP. KEEPS HIS ARROGANCE IN LINE BETTER THAN SOME OF THE OTHERS, HOWEVER; HE CAN APPRECIATE TALENT, AND ACKNOWLEDGES SUPERIOR ABILITIES.

NOTE(S):

MORE THAN ANY OF THE REST OF GOLD, STILL SEEMS TROUBLED BY THE [S-312] INCIDENT. BLAMES HIMSELF FOR THE “FAILURE” OF THE MISSION, AND FOR LETTING THE ASSASSIN ESCAPE. THE FACT HE COULD HAVE DONE NOTHING NEVER SEEMS TO HAVE OCCURRED TO HIM. MISTRUSTFUL OF ONI, BUT NOT NEARLY TO THE DEGREE OF THE OTHERS.

<font color=White>SPARTAN-312
(archived for use in investigation, as of January 1, 2587) RICHARD

PETTY OFFICER FIRST CLASS
 * FULL NAME: GRIFFON, RICHARD
 * SERVICE #: S-312


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/SILVER TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS:<font color=Red> KIA

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: M
 * BIRTHPLACE: TRANQUILITY, NEW HARMONY
 * BIRTH DATE: 2/3/2534

QUICK ON HIS FEET, WITH A KNACK FOR QUICKLY COMING UP WITH PLANS. EXCELLENT AT AMBUSHING THE ENEMY, BUT NOT SO SKILLED AT DETECTING OR EVADING ENEMY AMBUSHES. CAPABLE AT MEDIUM RANGE, BUT PREFERS CLOSE QUARTERS. JOKATIVE AND SEEMINGLY LIGHTHEARTED DURING TRAINING, BUT HAS SINCE TURNED MUCH MORE SERIOUS. UTTERLY DEVOTED TO HIS TEAM, AND VERY CAPABLE OF LEADING THEM. VERY SKILLED WITH EXPLOSIVES, ESPECIALLY IN SURPRISE ATTACKS.

COMMENTS:

[S-312] IS A FORMIDABLE OPERATOR, BUT CAN BE VERY GULLIBLE AND IS QUICK TO ANGER, BE IT RATIONAL OR IRRATIONAL. DEVOTION TO HIS TEAM IS COMPLETE, AND HIS LOYALTY TO THEM BY FAR EXCEEDS HID LOYALTY TO THE UNSC. PREFERENCE FOR AMBUSHES AND CLOSE QUARTERS MAKES HIM SOMEWHAT PREDICTABLE, IF CONSISTENT, BUT HIS TEAM MEMBERS MANAGE TO BALANCE OUT HIS WEAKNESSES, AT LEAST FOR NOW.

NOTE(S):

TURNED UP MULTIPLE PROBLEMS DURING HIS LAST PYSCHE EVALUATION, INCLUDING POSSIBLE EARLY INDICATORS OF SCHIZOPHRENIA. FOLLOW UP PYSCHE EXAM CHANCES OF IT DEVELOPING FULLY ARE MINIMAL, UNLESS SOMETHING CATASTROPHIC OCCURS. RECOMMENDATION: KEEP AN EYE ON HIM, BUT DEPLOY HIS TEAM ANYWAY. WE NEED THESE KIDS IN THE FIELD NO MATTER WHAT.

POST-OP REPORT:

DURING A ROUTINE PATROL IN TROY-II’S BADLANDS, A COVENANT AMBUSH RESULTED IN THE DEATH OF [S-364] AND [S-326]. THE RESULTING MENTAL TRAUMA BADLY DAMAGED RICHARD’S PYSCHE, AND AFTER ESCAPING THE COVENANT FORCES, HE RETALIATED AND SINGLE HANDEDLY DESTROYED THE NEARBY FIREBASE BRAVO, RESULTING IN NEARLY 400 UNSC CASUALTIES. GOLD TEAM WAS DEPLOYED TO RECOVER HIM FOR TRIAL, BUT AN UNKNOWN INDIVIDUAL ELIMINATED HIM BEFORE HE COULD BE CAPTURED. (FULL AFTER ACTION REPORT ATTACHED)

<font color=White>SPARTAN-364
(archived for use in investigation, as of January 1, 2587) LUCIUS

PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS
 * FULL NAME: DRAKE, LUCIUS
 * SERVICE #: S-364


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/SILVER TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS:<font color=Red> KIA

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: M
 * BIRTHPLACE: INSTANBUL, EARTH
 * BIRTH DATE: 2/4/2534

QUIET, CONFIDENT, FOCUSED AND TOUGH. EXCELLENT DEXTERITY AND VERY PRECISE, AT LEAST WITH HIS MOVEMENTS. PREFERS BIG GUNS---ANYTHING ABOVE .50 CAL AND HE’S ALL OVER IT, BUT DOESN’T HAVE MUCH USE FOR SMALLER ARMS. BIG BORE GUNS ARE HIS SPECIALTY, WHETHER THEY BE TURRETS, GAUSS CANNONS, AUTO CANNONS OR SNIPER RIFLES. VERY QUIET OFF DUTY, BUT IS FAIRLY APPROACHABLE. RELAXED, IF A BIT QUIET. EXCELLENT AT GUERRILLA WARFARE, AND DOESN’T LIKE TO STAY PUT FOR VERY LONG.

COMMENTS:

DIFFICULT TO EXAMINE. [S-364] TENDS TO KEEP TO HIMSELF, AND LIMITS HIS INTERACTION WITH OTHER SIERRAS, EVEN AMONG HIS OWN TEAM. HIS PREFERENCE FOR HEAVY DUTY WEAPONRY REMAINS NO MATTER WHO THE ENEMY IS, SO FIELDING HIM AGAINST INSURGENTS CAN BE TRICKY.

NOTE(S):

UNLIKE OTHER GROUPS, WE CAN’T ROTATE SIERRA’S IN AND OUT OF CHARLIE THREE TEAMS, SO WE’RE GOING TO HAVE TO MANUALLY LIMIT [S-364]’S EXPOSURE TO INSURGENTS AND STEALTH OPS.

POST-OP REPORT:

DURING A ROUTINE PATROL IN TROY-II’S BADLANDS DURING THE COVENANT SIEGE OF THE SYSTEM, AN ENEMY SNIPER WAS ABLE TO LOCATE SILVER TEAM’S M12 LRV AND CALL IN FOR SUPPORT. IN THE RESULTING AMBUSH, [S-364] WAS HIT IN THE HEAD WITH AN ENEMY TYPE-50 SRS AND WAS IMMEDIATELY KILLED. (FULL AFTER ACTION REPORT ATTACHED)

<font color=White>SPARTAN-326
(archived for use in investigation, as of January 1, 2587) TUCK

PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS
 * FULL NAME: HOLMER, TUCK
 * SERVICE #: S-326


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/SILVER TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS:<font color=Red> KIA

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: F
 * BIRTHPLACE: PYRTH, ARCADIA
 * BIRTH DATE: 1/19/2534

DEPENDABLE, LOYAL, AND TOUGH; A MODEL SOLDIER AND A NEAR PEFECT SPARTAN. CAREFREE AND CHEERY IN AND OUT OF COMBAT, AND MAKES FREQUENT JOKES. LIKE [S-312], SHE PREFERS CLOSE QUARTERS, BUT IS EQUALLY CAPABLE AT MIDRANGE. IN COMBAT, SHE LIKES TO KEEP MOVING; UNLIKE [S-312] OR [S-364], SHE DOESN’T LIKE TO GET BOGGED DOWN SETTING UP AN AMBUSH OR ATTACK THE ENEMY GUERILLA STYLE, BUT INSTEAD PREFERS TO TAKE THE FIGHT STRAIGHT TO THEM. SMALL AND SOMEWHAT DIMINUTIVE, BUT ENORMOUSLY STRONG FOR HER SIZE. ALSO VERY AGILE.

COMMENTS:

NOT MUCH TO NOTE ABOUT [S-326]. SHE’S VERY DEDICATED TO HER TEAM LEADER AND TO THE UNSC, IS CONFIDENT IN HER ABILITIES, AND IS FAIRLY ONE SIDED. SHE CAN GET INTO TROUBLE OCCASSIONALLY DURING COMBAT BECAUSE OF HER TENDENCY TO ATTACK THE ENEMY HEAD-ON WITHOUT A PLAN, BUT THERE’S A REASON [S-312] IS THE LEADER INSTEAD OF HER. NOT THE MOST CREATIVE OF INDIVIDUALS, BUT SHE HAS EXCELLENT INSTINCTS THAT, MORE OFTEN THAN NOT, PREVAIL OVER THE CAREFUL PLANS OF SOME OF THE OTHER TEAMS.

NOTE(S):

MAKE A NOTE TO RECHECK HER GENETIC STRUCTURE. THE INITIAL SCAN INDICATES SHE ONLY HAS A 13% COMPATIBILITY WITH THE ORIGINAL CHARLIE ONE PARAMETERS, BUT IT SEEMS UNLIKELY THAT SOMEONE WITH SUCH A LOW PERCENTAGE WOULD BOTH SURVIVE AUGMENTATION AND PROVE TO BE SUCH A STRONG OPERATIVE. I’VE TAKEN A LOOK INTO HER ENLISTMENT REPORT, AND IT APPEARS SHE’S ONE OF RICH’S “RANDOM RECRUITS”. HOW LUCKY WOULD IT BE TO FIND A CHARLIE ONE WORTHY RECRUIT IN THE LEFTOVER’S PILE?

POST-OP REPORT:

WHILE ON A ROUTINE PATROL IN THE AFTERMATH OF A MAJOR SKIRMISH AT TROY-II, RESIDUAL COVENANT ELEMENTS LOCATED AND BEGAN TRACKING SILVER TEAM’S M12 LRV. THE OVERWORKED AND OVERTASKED SATTELLITE CONTROLLER MISSED THE SMALL GROUP, AND IN THE RESULTING AMBUSH, [S-364] WAS IMMEDIATELY ELIMINATED. [S-312] AND [S-326] RETREATED TO THE COVER OF A NEARBY BUILDING, BUT HOSTILE GROUND ELEMENTS LOCATED THEM AND ATTACKED THEIR POSITION. [S-326] WAS STUCK BY AN ENEMY TYPE-1 APG, AND DOVE INTO THE MIDST OF THE HOSTILE SQUAD, SACRIFICING HERSELF TO ALLOW [S-312] TO ESCAPE. (FULL AFTER ACTION REPORT ATTACHED)

<font color=White>SPARTAN-329
(archived for use in investigation, as of January 1, 2587) LUCY

PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS
 * FULL NAME: MOORE, LUCY
 * SERVICE #: S-329


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/TAN TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS:<font color=Red> KIA

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: F
 * BIRTHPLACE: DENVER, EARTH
 * BIRTH DATE: 5/19/2534

KIND, SENSITIVE, AND CHEERY. AS CLOSE TO A “SWEETHEART” AS YOUR GOING TO FIND IN A UNIT OF GENETICALLY AUGMENTED SUPERSOLDIERS. GOOD AT CONNECTING WITH OTHERS AND MAKING THEM FEEL LIKE PART OF THE TEAM. IMPACT ON MAINLINE REMARKABLY POSITIVE; CHEERY AND CALM DEMEANOR HAS SHOWN TO QUICKLY AND CONSISTENTLY I MPROVE MORALE. BESIDES USE AS A MOBILE MORALE BOOST, HER SKILLS AT ELECTRONIC WARFARE AND MIDRANGE COMBAT ARE CONSIDERABLE, AND HER TRACKING ABILITIES RIVAL THOSE OF THE BEST OF THE SIERRA CHARLIE ONES. ALSO HAS AN AVID INTEREST IN NAVAL TACTICS; HER SCORES FOR EXO-ATMOSPHERIC SHIP TO SHIP COMBAT RIVAL OR SURPASS MANY OCS TRAINEES, DESPITE NO FORMAL NAVAL TRAINING.

COMMENTS:

[S-329] IS WITHOUT A DOUBT ONE OF THE MOST SKILLED OPERATORS IN THE ARES PROGRAM, WITH HIGH SCORES IN JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING. HER ‘WEAKER’ AREAS ARE OFTEN MUCH MORE DEVELOPED THAN THE SPECIFIC SPECIALTIES OF OTHER CHARLIE THREES. UNFORTUNATELY, HER CREATIVE ABILITIES SUFFER WHILE UNDER FIRE, LIMITING HER ABILITY TO QUICKLY REACT TO NEW TACTICAL DEVELOPMENTS DURING COMBAT. SHE HAS ALSO DISPLAYED PROBLEMS WITH BECOMING TO ENGROSSED IN COMPLICATED TASKS, LEADING TO DANGEROUS DROPS IN SITUATIONAL AWARENESS. HER COMPASSION CAN ALSO IMPACT HER IN THE AFTERMATH OF MISSIONS, ESPECIALLY WHEN LARGE AMOUNTS OF FRIENDLY CASUALTIES ARE SUSTAINED OR HER UNIT IS DEPLOYED AGAINST REBELS; SHE NEVER FAILS TO GET THE JOB DONE, BUT SHE HAS EXPRESSED DISPLEASURE AFTER THE FACT.

NOTE(S):

RECOMMEND KEEPING AN EYE ON HER INTERACTION WITH [S-338]. PYSCHE REVIEWS INDICATE SHE HARBORS A BIT OF A CRUSH ON HIM, AND THOUGH HE DOESN’T SEEM TO BE AWARE AS OF YET, THE LAST THING WE NEED IN THAT UNIT IS POSSIBLE FRATERNIZATION.

POST-OP REPORT:

DURING OPERATION: WET FEET, TAN TEAM WAS DEPLOYED TO NEW AUSTRALIA ALONGSIDE THE 19TH MARINE AMPHIBIOUS ON AN INTELLIGENCE GATHERING MISSION. WHILE SCOUTING FOR THE ENEMY COMMAND AND CONTROL CENTER, HOSTILE REINFORCEMENTS WERE ALERTED TO THEIR PRESENCE AND ATTACKED. [S-338] ASSIGNED [S-329] TO DESTABILIZE THE NEARBY HYDROGEN FUEL STORAGE CONTAINERS TO CAUSE A DISTRACTION. [S-329] COMPLETED THE OBJECTIVE, BUT HER ESCAPE WAS BLOCKED BY ENEMY FORCES AND SHE WAS UNABLE TO REGROUP WITH THE REST OF HER TEAM. DESPITE OVERWHELMING ODDS, SHE MANAGED TO STAGE A LAST STAND LONG ENOUGH FOR THE OVERLOAD CYCLE TO COMPLETE AND THE FUEL TO DETONATE. |(FULL AFTER ACTION REPORT ATTACHED)

<font color=White>SPARTAN-332
(archived for use in investigation, as of January 1, 2587) MELLISSA

PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS
 * FULL NAME: YANDRALL, MELLISSA
 * SERVICE #: S-332


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/TAN TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS:<font color=Red> KIA

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: F
 * BIRTHPLACE: NOVIA CITY, ATLAS MOONS
 * BIRTH DATE: 11/2/2534

INTELLIGENT, CREATIVE, AND ALMOST ABSURDLY DEADLY. EXCELLENT MIND FOR LOGISTICS AND STRATEGY, AND SOME OF HER IDEAS HAVE PROMPTED SERIOUS EXAMINATIONS OF CURRENT NAVAL PRACTICES. WORKS WELL WITH MAINLINE PERSONNEL, JUST LIKE THE REST OF TAN, BUT ALSO SEEMS TO DELIBERATELY DISTANCE HERSELF FROM THEM. EXCELLENT AT CLOSE QUARTERS, BUT REAL TALENTS LIE IN EVA WARFARE. HIGH SITUATIONAL AWARENESS AND LIGHTNING FAST REFLEXES MAKE HER A VALUABLE ASSET IN ANY EXO ENGAGEMENT. VERY SERIOUS IN COMBAT, AND HIGHLY INDEPENDENT; USED TO GETTING HER WAY AND ACTS LIKE IT. ALSO A DECENT PILOT; VERY PROFICIENT IN UNSC SPACE AND AIR VEHICLES ALONG WITH SEVERAL COVENANT ONES AS WELL.

COMMENTS:

WHILE [S-332] IS GOOD AT PAYING ATTENTION TO THE BIG PICTURE, SMALLER DETAILS CAN BE HARDER FOR HER. SHE IS CONSIDERABLY LESS PROFICIENT IN SMALL UNIT TACTICS THAN SHE IS WITH STRATEGY AND SHE WILL EVEN OCCASSIONALY OVERLOOK MINOR DETAILS. EMOTIONAL DETACHMENT AND INDEPDENCE CAN ALSO MAKE HER A BIT HARD TO ORDER AROUND; THE BRASS HAS HAD THEIR FAIR SHARE OF STRUGGLES WITH HER AND EVEN [S-338] CAN HAVE PROBLEMS. LIKE [S-338], SHE TAKES THE WAR VERY PERSONALLY, ESPECIALLY IN THE AFTERMATH OF [S-329]’S DEATH. SHE HAS ALSO BEEN NOTED ACTING A BIT TO FLIRTATIOUSLY WITH MEN (WITH THE NOTABLE EXCEPTION OF [S-338]) THOUGH THIS SEEMS TO BE JUST ANOTHER METHOD OF MANIPULATING SITUATIONS TO GET WHAT SHE WANTS.

NOTE(S):

DURING A RANDOM MEDICAL SCAN IN THE AFTERMATH OF THE HOPEFUL INCIDENT, [S-332] TESTED POSITIVE FOR A PAIR OF TYPE-3 STDS. HER ENHANCED IMMUNE SYSTEM HAS RENDERED THEM HARMLESS, BUT SHE HAS AN ANNUAL MEDICAL CHECKUP RAPIDLY APPROACHING AND SMUDGING IT ISN’T AN OPTION. IF THESE DISEASES ARE PRESENT WHEN SHE IS EXAMINED, IT MIGHT RAISE SOME UNCOMFORTABLE QUESTIONS. RECOMMENDATION: START HER ON THE STRONGEST AB’S AVAILABLE AND HEAD THIS PROBLEM OFF BEFORE IT SNOWBALLS.

POST-OP REPORT:

DURING OPERATION: SANDBOX, [S-338] AND [S-332] WERE ASSIGNED TO DEFEND THE POWER GENERATOR FOR THE PLANET’S ORBITAL MAC CANNON. AFTER SUCCESSFULLY HOLDING THE ENEMY AT BAY HOWEVER, A COVENANT CRUISER ENTERED THE ATMOSPHERE AND PREPARED TO GLASS ONE OF THE PLANET’S MAJOR CITIES. TAN TEAM, HOPING TO BOARD THE SHIP, ABANDONED THEIR POST AND HEADED FOR IT’S POSITION. HOWEVER, BEFORE THEIR COULD COMPLETE THEIR PLAN, THE ENEMY DETECTED THEM AND CONSEQUENTLY SHOT THEM DOWN. TAN TEAM MANAGED TO MAKE A SUCCESSFUL CRASH LANDING IN THE CITY, BUT ENEMY FIRE BADLY INJURED [S-332] AND SHE VOLUNTEERED TO STAY BEHIND TO SLOW THE ENEMY DOWN, ALLOWING [S-338] TO ESCAPE.

<font color=White>SPARTAN-347
(archived for use in investigation, as of January 1, 2587) JENNIFER

PETTY OFFICER FIRST CLASS
 * FULL NAME: GUMP, JENNIFER
 * SERVICE #: S-347


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/SCARLET TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS:<font color=Red> KIA

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: F
 * BIRTHPLACE: REMINGTON, NEW LONDON
 * BIRTH DATE: 9/3/2534

CONFIDENT, DEADLY, AND HIGHLY SKILLED AT MIDRANGE COMBAT. ABILITY TO AIM ACCURATELY ON THE MOVE IS NEAR PERFECT, EVEN UNDER HIGH STRESS OR FROM A FAST MOVING VEHICLE. DOESN’T HAVE THE PATIENCE FOR LONG RANGE COMBAT, OR THE REFLEXES TO EXCEL IN CLOSE, BUT IS PASSABLY PROFICIENT IN BOTH. EXCELLENT SOLDIER WITH A STRONG WORK ETHIC THAT HAS ALLOWED HER TO EXCEL DESPITE A LOWER GENETIC MATCH THAN MANY OF THE OTHER CHARLIE THREES. TACTICAL ABILITY, HOWEVER, BLOWS HER ALREADY CONSIDERALE STRENGTHS OUT OF THE WATER. EXCELLENT STRATEGIST WITH A KNACK FOR FINDING AND EXPLOITING STRESS POINTS IN BATTLE OR ENEMY FORMATIONS, BUT ALMOST MORE USEFUL FOR HER ABILITY TO FLIP HER VIEWPOINT AND EXAMINE THE SITUATION FROM THE ENEMY’S POINT OF VIEW. EXCELS AT OPEN COMBAT DURING LARGE, CHAOTIC BATTLES.

COMMENTS:

WOULD BE THE BEST COMMANDER IN THE WHOLE PROGRAM IF SHE WASN’T SO DAMN EGOTISTICAL. ARROGANCE, A BIG HEAD, AND AN EVEN BIGGER MOUTH HAVE ALWAYS BEEN A PROBLEM FOR HER, BUT THE PROBLEM HAS GOTTEN WORSE SINCE SCARLET WAS DEPLOYED. THE CHARLIE THREE SQUADS NO THE ODDS THEY’RE UP AGAINST, SO IT’S NO SURPRISE THE EFFECTIVE ONES GET A LITTLE SELF ABSORBED. A DAMN SHAME THOUGH, BECAUSE HER EGO CAN MAKE IT DIFFICULT FOR HER TO INTERACT WITH OTHER PERSONNEL; MAINLINE TROOPS ARE INTIMIDATED, OTHER SIERRA’S FIND HER ANTAGONIZING, AND EVEN HER OWN TEAM CAN FIND HER GRATING. IT CAN ALSO PROVE DANGEROUS DURING COMBAT, AS WELL; JENNY’S OVERCONFIDENCE HAS GOTTEN SCARLET INTO MORE THAN ONE TOUGH SPOT BEFORE, AND WHILE THEY’VE BEEN ABLE TO GET OUT OF MOST OF THEM SO FAR, THEY’RE LUCK WILL ONLY LAST SO LONG.

NOTE(S):

[S-347] HAS BEEN NOTED FOR HER DIFFICULTY INTERACTING WITH OTHER SIERRAS, BUT HER RELATIONS WITH [S-341], [S-343], [S-338], [S-363], AND [S-312] ARE PARTICULARILLY STRAINED. THIS PROBLEM IS ESPECIALLY PREVALENT IN HER RELATIONSHIP WITH [S-363], HER OLD TEAM LEADER, WHO WE HAD TO TRANSFER EARLY ON BECAUSE OF INTERNAL DIFFICULTIES. MAKE SURE SHE ISN’T DEPLOYED ANYWHERE NEAR THEM IF YOU CAN.

POST-OP REPORT:

AFTER [S-312] WENT ROGUE AND WAS TRACKED TO THE LAMBDA SERPENTIS SYSTEM, THE LOCAL MARINE OUTPOST WAS PUT ON HIGH ALERT AND ALL AVAILABLE CHARLIE THREE TEAMS WITHIN A TWO WEEK RADIUS WERE SCRAMBLED. GOLD, OLIVE, AND SCARLET TEAMS WERE CONTACTED, BUT OLIVE WAS INVOLVED IN THE ONGOING SCATHING OF THE CHINESE SECTOR AND WAS UNABLE TO RESPOND. SCARLET REACHED THE TARGET SYSTEM SEVERAL HOURS AHEAD OF GOLD, AND DEPLOYED TO THE SURFACE IMMEDIATELY. THEY PROCEDED TO HEAD DIRECTLY TO [S-312]’S LAST KNOWN POSITION, WITHOUT WAITING FOR GOLD TO REINFORCE THEM. AFTER MAKING AN INITIAL SWEEP OF THE AREA WITH NO RESULTS, [S-347] ALLOWED HER TEAM TO SEPARATE AND WAS CAUGHT OFF GUARD WHEN [S-312] AMBUSHED [S-356]. IN THE RESULTING SKIRMISH, SHE ORDERED A RETREAT BUT PLAYED STRAIGHT INTO [S-312]’S PLANS, ALLOWING HIM TO COMPLETE HIS AMBUSH AND ELIMINATE HER TEAM.

<font color=White>SPARTAN-356
(archived for use in investigation, as of January 1, 2587) MICHAEL

PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS
 * FULL NAME: SMITH, MICHAEL
 * SERVICE #: S-356


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/SCARLET TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS:<font color=Red> KIA

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: M
 * BIRTHPLACE: TRANQUILITY, LUNA
 * BIRTH DATE: 7/7/2534

GOOD WITH A SUBMACHINEGUN IN A CROWD OF ENEMIES, BUT BETTER WITH A SHOTGUN PUMPING BUCKSHOT INTO THE ENEMY AT POINT BLANK. CLOSE QUARTERS SPECIALIST WHO FOUND A LOVE OF ADRENALINE SOAKED CQB COMBAT AS A YOUNGSTER AND HAS MOLDED THAT LOVE INTO A TALENT FOR SHORT RANGE WEAPONS THAT BORDERS ON ARTISTRY. REGIMENTED WITH A FIERCE DEVOTION TO HIS SQUAD. NOT THE BEST TACTICIAN OR STRATEGIST, WITH LOW SCORES ON HIS CREATIVITY TESTS, BUT GOOD AT FOLLOWING ORDERS AND EVEN BETTER AT INSTICTIVELY COUNTERING THE ENEMY. VERY BOLD, WITH UNFALTERING COURAGE; WHEN OTHERS STEP BACK, HE STEPS FORWARD. VERY ARTICULATE, THOUGH HIS EXPLANATIONS CAN BE OVERLY VERBOSE AT TIMES.

COMMENTS:

EXCELLENT AT CLOSE QUARTERS, WITH A FRACTIONAL REACTION TIME AND NERVES OF STEEL, BUT HAS DIFFICULTY AT LONGER RANGES. AIM IS TERRIBLE (BY SIERRA STANDARDS) AT A DISTANCE, AND [S-347] SEEMS TO DELIBERATELY RETRICT HIM TO CLOSE QUARTERS AS A WAY TO COUNTER THIS. THE SUCCESS OF THIS STRATEGY SO FAR IS DEBATABLE, BUT THEY’RE ALL STILL ALIVE, SO THAT HAS TO COUNT FOR SOMETHING. DESPITE HIS REGIMENTED NATURE, HE HAS A BIT OF A MOUTH AND AN EGO PROBLEM, WITH A SARCASTIC, BITING WIT. HE CAN ALSO TAKE HIS BOLD BEHAVIOR TOO FAR, AS WELL; HE HAS A TENDENCY TO PLUNGE HEADFIRST INTO THE THICK OF THINGS WITHOU THINKING, WHICH HAS ONLY BEEN MADE WORSE BY HIS GROWING EGO. COMMUNICATING WITH HIM HAS ALSO BEEN NOTED AS BEING A LABORIOUS AFFAIR, THANKS TO HIS OVERLY VERBOSE NATURE.

NOTE(S):

MAKE A NOTE TO CHECK [S-356]’S PERSONAL LOCKER THE NEXT TIME HE’S OUT ON DEPLOYMENT. MARINE TEAMS HAVE REPORTED HIM TAKING PERSONAL MEMENTOS OFF ENEMY COMBATANTS, AND WHILE NO ACTUAL EVIDENCE HAS BEEN DISCOVERED, WE’RE NOT ARMY AND WE CAN’T GET AWAY WITH THAT KIND OF THING, SO IT’S WORTH LOOKING INTO.

POST-OP REPORT:

AFTER [S-312] WENT ROGUE AND FLED TO THE LAMBDA SERPENTIS SYSTEM, SCARLET TEAM WAS ASSIGNED, ALONGSIDE GOLD TEAM, TO TRACK HIM DOWN AND RECOVER HIM FOR TRIAL. DURING THEIR INVESTIGATION, SCARLET DECIDED TO PURSUE [S-312] WITHOUT WAITING FOR BACKUP, AND MADE A FULL SWEEP OF HIS LAST KNOWN POSITION WITHOUT ANY CONTACT. ASSUMING [S-312] TO BE GONE, [S-356] WENT OFF ON HIS OWN FOR ONE LAST LOOK AROUND BEFORE GOLD’S ARRIVAL AND WAS LURED INTO A MINEFIELD BY THE ROGUE OPERATOR. HE WAS ELIMINATED BEFORE HE COULD ESCAPE THE TRAP.

<font color=White>SPARTAN-351
(archived for use in investigation, as of January 1, 2587) ARNOLD

PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS
 * FULL NAME: QUAID, ARNOLD
 * SERVICE #: S-351


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/SCARLET TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS:<font color=Red> KIA

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: M
 * BIRTHPLACE: LAS ANGELES, EARTH
 * BIRTH DATE: 7/4/2534

STRONG, CONFIDENT, PROUD AND BRUTAL. NATURALLY GOOD FIGHTER WITH AN AFFINITY FOR DESTRUCTION---EXPLOSIVES AND HEAVY WEAPONS ARE HIS SPECIALTY. PREFERS BRUTE FORCE IN COMBAT, AIMING FOR THE MAXIMUM DAMAGE INFLICTED ON THE ENEMY. EVEN HIS OWN CUSTOM EXPLOSIVES ARE USUALLY OVERKILL; IF THE JOB NEEDS A TEN STRENGTH CHARGE, YOU CAN COUNT ON HIM TO FASHION A FIFTEEN STRENGTH ONE. DECENTLY CAPABLE AT CLOSE RANGE BECAUSE OF HER SHEER STRENGTH, BUT MORE AGILE OPPONENTS CAN EASILY GET AROUND HIM AND HIS ABILITIES AT MID AND LONG RANGE ARE MUCH WEAKER. PREFERS BIG BATTLES WHERE HE CAN BRING HIS TALENTS TO USE, AND DISLIKES SLOWER PACED OR MORE “SUBTLE” MISSIONS. FAIRLY SERIOUS IN COMBAT, THOUGH NOT THE MOST PROFESSIONAL. KNOWN TO BE VOCAL WITH HIS OPINIONS, ESPECIALLY DURING DEPLOYMENT.

COMMENTS:

UNUSUAL FOR A SIERRA, [S-351] IS SOMEWHAT LAZY. MOST THINGS COME NATURALLY FOR HIM, WHICH, COUPLED WITH A NEARLY FLAWLESS DEPLOYMENT RECORD, HAS ACCENTED THIS PROBLEM. IN ADDITION TO THIS, HE HAS ALSO HAD OCCASSIONAL PROBLEMS WITH OVERESTIMATING THE ENEMY, CREATING A POOR ENVIRONMENT FOR MORALE. WHILE A HEALTHY CAUTION IS GOOD, [S-351] SOMETIMES TAKES IT TOO FAR AND PANICS IN BAD SITUATIONS. DEPLOYMENT ALONGSIDE MARINES CAN BE PROBLEMATIC, BECAUSE THE COMMON TROOPS DON’T NEED THEIR MORALE ANY LOWER THAN IT ALREADY IS, AND A PESSIMISTIC SIERRA IS A SERIOUS DOWNER. ALSO NOTE THAT HE HAS A TENDENCY TO EMPLOY OVER DRAMATIC FLOURISHES DURING COMBAT; THESE OVER THE TOP ANTICS, LIKE HIS STUNT WITH DUAL M19’S, CAN PUT THE UNIT IN UNNECCESSARY DANGER FOR LITTLE TO NO EXTRA BENEFIT. CONSIDERED TO BE A SORT OF SIMPLETON BY MANY OF THE OTHER SIERRA TEAMS---AND HIS BRUTAL TENDENCIES DON’T HELP HIS REPUTATION ANY.

NOTE(S):

[S-351] REQUESTED A HUD UPGRADE FOR HIS SPI ARMOR IN LATE NOVEMBER, AND IT CERTAINLY IS AN INTERESTING ONE. SINCE AUGMENTATION, HE’S DEVELOPED A HABIT OF DUAL-WIELDING M19 AND M41 LAUNCHERS IN COMBAT---AND ISN’T BAD AT ITBUT THE CURRENT SUIT CAN’T TRACK TWO WEAPON’S SIMOULTANEOUSLY, MUCH LESS TWO ROCKET LAUNCHERS. A FULL UNIT UPGRADE PROBABLY ISN’T POSSIBLE, BUT [S-351] HAS PROVEN TIME AND AGAIN THAT HE’S VERY GOOD WITH HIS EXPLOSIVES, AND I THINK THE POTENTIAL GAIN IS GOOD ENOUGH TO WARRANT SUCH AN UPGRADE.

POST-OP REPORT:

IN THE AFTERMATH OF [S-312]’S BREAKDOWN, [S-351] AND THE REST OF SCARLET WERE DISPATCHED, ALONGSIDE GOLD TEAM, TO THE LAMBDA SERPENTIS SYSTEM TO RECOVER HIM. DURING DEPLOYMENT, SCARLET DECIDED TO PRESS ON WITHOUT GOLD AND WAS AMBUSHED BY [S-312]. [S-356] WAS LURED INTO A MINEFIELD AND KILLED, AND [S-347] ORDERED AN IMMEDIATE RETREAT. [S-351] PANICKED AND DISTRACTED HIS TEAMATE, AND IN THE CONFUSION, [S-312] WAS ABLE TO GET THE DROP ON [S-351] AND ELIMINATE HIM.

<font color=White>SPARTAN-341
(archived for use in investigation, as of January 1, 2587) ROGER

LIEUTENANT, JUNIOR GRADE
 * FULL NAME: MONTEVADO, ROGER
 * SERVICE #: S-341


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/CRIMSON TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS: ACTIVE

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: M
 * BIRTHPLACE: KENT SPRINGS, MIRIDEM
 * BIRTH DATE: 5/4/2534

JACK OF ALL TRADES WHO EXCELS AT EVERYTHING FROM CLOSE QUARTERS COMBAT TO LONG RANGE SHOOTOUTS. PREFERS NOT TO GET BOGGED DOWN SPECIALIZING TOO MUCH IN ONE FIELD, THOUGH HE DOES HAVE AN APPARENT LOVE OF KNIVES AND SEEMS TO OPERATE ESPECIALLY WELL AT MIDRANGE. BIT OF A DAREDEVIL. DIRECT AND OBVIOUS, IN BOTH HIS INTERACTION WITH OTHERS AND HIS TACTICS ON THE BATTLEFIELD. NOT MUCH OF A PEOPLE PERSON; SARCASTIC WITH A BITING TONGUE, RECEPTIVE ONLY TOO HIS TEAM AND A SMALL CIRCLE OF FRIENDS, AND SEEMINGLY INDIFFERENT TO THE REST OF HUMANITY.

COMMENTS:

EXTREMELY INDEPENDENT AND SOMEWHAT SELF SERVING. COMPLETELY LOYAL TO HIS SQUAD, BUT INDIFFERENT TO THE COMMON PEOPLE. NOT ABOVE BREAKING REGS OR PERFORMING (MILDLY) ILLEGAL ACTIONS, AS LONG AS IT HELPS HIS SQUAD. A BIT VAIN AS WELL; TAKES GREAT PRIDE IN HIS PERSONAL APPERANCE. GRIM SENSE OF HUMOR AND SARCASTIC STREAK PRESENTS ITSELF AS MOSTLY HARMLESS IN REGARDS TO HIS TEAM, BUT HIS RUDE BEHAVIOR CAN CAUSE DIFFICULTY FIELDING HIM ALONGSIDE OTHER UNITS

NOTE(S):

KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON [S-341] TO WATCH FOR SIGNS OF INSUBORDINATION AND LOYALTY SUSPICIONS. HE’S VERY RATIONAL AND REALIZES THAT IT’S THE MOST LOGICAL THING TO HELP HUMANITY, AND HIS CONNECTION WITH HIS SQUAD SEALS THE DEAL, BUT IF EITHER IS LOST HIS LOYALTY COULD BE IN SERIOUS QUESTION. APPEARS TO HARBOR A BIT OF A RESENTMENT TOWARDS ONI FOR HIS INDUCTION INTO ARES, AND THAT’S NOT THE GREATEST FOUNDATION FOR STRONG LOYALTIES.

<font color=White>SPARTAN-319
(archived for use in investigation, as of January 1, 2587) JAMES

PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS
 * FULL NAME: KIM, JAMES
 * SERVICE #: S-319


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/CRIMSON TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS: <font color=Red> KIA

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: M
 * BIRTHPLACE: KARNAK, DRACO III
 * BIRTH DATE: 2/19/2534

PLEASANT MANNERED, ENGAGING, AND COMICAL. GOOD AT MOVING STEALTHILY, AND AN EXPERT HACKER, BUT ALSO AN EXCELLENT DEMOLITIONS EXPERT AND A LOVER OF EXPLOSIVES. GOOD WITH ANYTHING THAT GOES BOOM; ROCKETS, MINES, GRENADES, IED’S, YOU NAME IT, HE LIKES IT. BIT CHATTY DURING DEPLOYMENT, AND A STEREOTYPICAL JOKER, BUT HIS HUMOR IS MORE VALUABLE FOR MORALE PURPOSES THAN IT IS DETRIMENTAL FOR IT’S DISTRACTION. PREFERS CLOSE RANGE COMBAT, AND SPECIALIZES IN ASSAULT RIFLES, SHOTGUNS, AND KNIVES WHEN NOT ACTING AS A DESIGNATED EXPLOSIVES TECHNICIAN.

COMMENTS:

CHATTER CAN BE DISTRACTING AT TIMES, AND A LITTLE UNPROFESSIONAL, THOUGH OF NO REAL SERIOUS WORRY. SOMETIMES A LITTLE TO EAGER OR IMPATIENT; HE HAS A BIT OF A TENDENCY TO CHARGE HEADLONG WITHOUT MUCH THOUGHT FOR THE ODDS.

NOTE(S):

MAKE A NOTE TO WATCH FOR SIGNS OF DEPRESSION. HE’D HARDLY SEEM TO BE THE TYPE, BUT HIS LAST PYSCHE REVIEW WAS INCONCLUSIVE AND IT IS POSSIBLE, HOWEVER UNLIKELY, THAT HIS CHEERY DISPOSITION MIGHT BE AN ACT TO HIDE HIS TROUBLES FROM HIS SQUAD.

<font color=White>SPARTAN-311
(archived for use in investigation, as of January 1, 2587) MICA

PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS
 * FULL NAME: HELENA, MICA
 * SERVICE #: S-311


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/CRIMSON TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS: Active

PERFORMANCE:
 * GENDER: F
 * BIRTHPLACE: PONDEROSA, ARISTOTLE I
 * BIRTH DATE: 10/14/2534

QUICK THINKER AND EXPERT SHOT WITH A SNIPER RIFLE. EXTREMELY INTELLIGENT, WITH IQ SCORES HIGHER THAN ANYONE ELSE IN THE PROGEAM. TACTICAL ABILITY NOT OVERLY STRONG, BUT EXTREMELY INTELLIGENT IN OTHER FIELDS, WITH A PARTICULAR KNACK FOR THEORETICAL XENOBIOLOGY. SKILLS WITH A SNIPER LESS SPECTACULAR THAN OTHER MEMBERS OF THE PROGRAM, BUT WITH THE TRADEOFF OF MORE ADVANCED ABILITIES AT TRACKING, PILOTING, COMMUNCATIONS, AND BATTLEFIELD MEDICINE. NOT A JOKER LIKE [S-319], BUT DEFINITELY LOOKS ON THE BRIGHTER SIDE OF LIFE AND COMES UP WITH A FEW OF HER OWN WISE CRACKS.

COMMENTS:

VERY CONFIDENT IN HER ABILITIES AND HER SQUAD, BUT SHARES THE SAME VAGUELY EXCLUSIONARY OUTLOOK, THOUGH SHE DEFINITELY HAS A BROADER VIEW THAN [S-341]. CAN BE A BIT BY THE BOOK AND FORMAL AT TIMES, BUT ALSO HARBORS A TEMPER AND KNOWS HOW TO NURSE A GRUDGE. FIERY AND A BIT OF A HELLCAT, WHEN SHE LETS HER DISCIPLINE DOWN ENOUGH TO LET IT OUT. REPORTS OF MUTILATED ENEMY COMBATANTS AT CONCORD HAVE BEEN CONFIRMED AND ARE A PRIME EXAMPLE.

NOTE(S):

HARBORS AN INTENSE DISLIKE FOR SCARLET TEAM, BUT MANAGES TO KEEP IT MOSTLY UNDER WRAPS, UNLIKE HER SUPERIOR. STILL, RECOMMEND WATCHING HER INTERACTION WITH THEM.

<font color=White>SPARTAN-309
(archived for use in investigation, as of January 1, 2587) ADAM

CHIEF PETTY OFFICER
 * FULL NAME: SNOW, ADAM
 * SERVICE #: S-309


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/TURQUOISE TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS: ACTIVE


 * GENDER: M
 * BIRTHPLACE: NEW ALEXANDRIA, REACH
 * BIRTH DATE: 06/11/2536

PERFORMANCE:

VERY STRONG AND FAST, HIGHLY SKILLED IN CLOSE QUARTERS COMBAT. IGNORES MILITARY PROTOCOLS AGAINST REBELS (PUNISHED FOR CURBSTOMPING A WOUNDED REBEL AND THE REBEL MEDIC THAT WAS TREATING HIM, STRANGLING A REBEL THAT HAD ALREADY SURRENDERED, WAVING THE HEAD OF A REBEL DURING A COMBAT MISSION AND GORING THE EYES OUT OF A CAPTURED REBEL THAT MADE A FAILED ESCAPE ATTEMPT ALL IN ONE MISSION). OFTEN GETS INTO THE THICK OF THINGS, AMBUSHES STRONGER ENEMIES IN CLOSE RANGE.

COMMENTS:

HAS TERRIBLE AIM (FOR A SIERRA), COMPARABLE TO THE AVERAGE MARINE MARKSMAN. HOWEVER, HIS TACTICS OF AMBUSHING STRONGER ENEMIES AT CLOSE RANGE WITH HIS SHOTGUN IS HIGHLY EFFECTIVE IN URBAN COMBAT, AS EVIDENCED BY ACTION ON PARIS IV, REACH AND SOL.

<font color=White>SPARTAN-349
(archived for use in investigation, as of January 1, 2587) ADAM

PETTY OFFICER First Class
 * FULL NAME: STRAUSS, LUCIA
 * SERVICE #: S-349


 * UNIT: NAVSPECWAR/ARES DETACHMENT/TURQUOISE TEAM
 * ENLISTMENT DATE: CLASSIFIED
 * LOCATION: CLASSIFIED
 * STATUS: ACTIVE


 * GENDER: F
 * BIRTHPLACE: AZURE CITY, WATERFALL
 * BIRTH DATE: 10/1/2534

PERFORMANCE:

AN EXCELLENT MARKSMAN AND IS VERY STEALTHY. HAS DIFFICULTY SOCIALIZING WITH OTHERS; IS SURPRISINGLY SHY. DOES NOT STOP HER FROM BEING AN EXCELLENT FIELD OPERATOR. NOT PRONE TO EMOTIONAL OUTBURSTS, UNLIKE ADAM-309. NOT VERY CREATIVE WHEN COMING TO TACTICAL SITUATIONS.

COMMENTS:

BRILLIANT SHOT, ALTHOUGH SOMEWHAT LACKING IN SELF CONFIDENCE. A BIT TOO RELIANT ON OTHER TEAM MEMBERS, ESPECIALLY IN CQC. IS AN EXCELLENT ASSASSIN, PROVEN BY OPERATION:WHITE LANCE, WHERE SHE KILLED A SANGHEILI FLEETMASTER RIGHT UNDER THE NOSES OF A BUNCH OF COVENANT FROM THREE KLICKS AWAY.
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