RP:Light of the Abyss

Light of the Abyss

Within every battle lies the illustrations of our true nature, of our darkest exploits left untold.

Overview

Premise

It is the year 2542. The colony of Alluvion is under attack by a Covenant armada, led by a Fleetmaster known only as "The Destroyer". Following months of preparation, the UNSC's stringent lines of defence are about to be pitted yet again against the invading force. A top-secret unit of SPARTAN-IIs, operating under the name "VELOX", have been tasked with the elimination of The Destroyer and his top-ranking officers, in hopes of dealing a much-needed crippling blow that would allow humanity to emerge victorious in the battle.

Yet the Covenant is not without dissent as they begin their campaign. A scouting patrol, sent by Imperial Admiral Xytan 'Jar Wattinree, had detected a valuable piece of Forerunner technology several months earlier, lying dormant beneath Alluvion's vast, turbulent oceans. Given his reluctance to disclose his findings, the High Prophets have entrusted Fleetmaster Thel 'Vadamee to uncover Xytan's secret and bring it back to High Charity. With Thel's ambition to supplant the Admiral pitted against Xytan's own intentions, the stakes are high on both sides of the conflict.

Rules

1. For starters, you do not have to join ZOD to participate in this RP, nor do you have to add the ZOD era icon to the characters you submit. But if you wish to do so, I will take a look at the corresponding articles and give you the go-ahead if I find it's of adequate quality. Again, this doesn't mean you have to be part of ZOD, but whatever happens to your characters in this RP will be canonical within the EU.
2. To submit characters for this RP, make a list on the talk page under your username. The viable options are pretty straightforward—UNSC or Covenant mostly. There will be limited ONI forces in play, as well as some non-military research factions if you so desire. Oh, and if you'd prefer certain characters not be killed in the RP, be sure to make a note of that. I will try my best to heed your wishes. The submission deadline is February 25th, no exceptions.
3. While this is not one of dem irk RPs that are so popular with the kids these days, I have no qualms about enacting certain events in a live chat room setting for the sake of creative inspiration. It is worth noting, however, that the improvisational nature of Irk RPs means that some events may be subject to revision when transposed into writing. In addition, only the written version will be considered canonical to ZOD.
4. As per traditional written RP rules, don't make two consecutive posts in a row. With the exception of one scenario which I will explain below, it's better to let someone else take a turn after you submit your piece.
5. Or if your characters are needed to advance the plot and you don't write your post within a reasonable amount of time, it will be written for you. You will receive plenty of notice before I resort to this, but the goal is to avoid the notorious loss of momentum that has sunk so many half-finished RPs. Alternatively, if you sign a post and do not finish it within a week (7 days), it will be written for you without notice. Once a post is written for you, it cannot be undone even if you don't like the way things play out, and this covers everything up to and including killing off your characters if necessary. Sound fair?
6. Please try to keep your characters doing something that's relevant to the plot. I'm not going to impose a bunch of restrictions since you all know how to write in an HCW setting, but I may occasionally invite some of you to participate in working toward an objective or event. This is mainly to keep the plot from drifting in every direction at once, and I'll be sure to leave everyone enough breathing room if this becomes necessary.
7. Lastly, I strongly encourage you to team up your characters with other users' rather than leave your guys on their own for the entire RP. If you notice someone stirring up an event that looks like fun, have a discussion with them about throwing your ideas into the mix. This is a community project, after all, and maximizing interaction is half the fun.

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Dramatis Personae

United Nations Space Command Office of Naval Intelligence CAPT Jazmine Utah CDR Serin Osman LT Felix-116 LTJG Nyarai-134 CWO3 Eldar-128 CWO2 Maddison-140 WO1 Lian-017 Marine Corps / Navy / Maritime Ops COL Francisco Cortez CPT Tom Žagar CDR Angelica Hurst LT Daiichi Kimura 1LT Michael Trask MSGT Ellison Suarez CPO Nathan-076 SGT Samuel Hope CPL Aiden Jenkins CPL Fritz Hoffman LCPL Ian Turner LCPL Morris Rhodes PFC Edmond Dahm PFC Levi Groves PVT James Coburn Army Officers (Cameo?) Mr. Thorne Mrs. Thorne

The Covenant Naval officers Fleetmaster Thel 'Vadamee Shipmaster Bulu 'Wattinree Shipmaster Cerpa 'Folumee Shipmaster Khal 'Devnumee Shipmaster Tyun 'Arachee Ground forces / Zealots Field Marshall Hiuel 'Jadamee Field Marshall Veer 'Nefalee General Ekdam 'Noramee General Nol 'Saverosee General Sev 'Wattinrzoee General Sovol 'Yendamee Zealot Jez 'Varumee Yugo Bond-Brothers Special Operations Commander Jeran 'Demalee Officer Tawri 'Antinree Operator Akorn 'Yendamee Operator Jusan 'Sasovai

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Light of the Abyss

Prologue

145TH UNIT // CYCLE 3 // 7TH AGE OF RECLAMATION [ 0340 HOURS // AUGUST 5, 2542 ] Location: ABOARD CAS-CLASS CARRIER SEEKER OF TRUTH // IN ORBIT AROUND PLANET BHAAKTO VI, BHAAKTO SYSTEM “You can swim against the current, my love, but sooner or later it will carry you to the sea.” Before meeting the one who would ask him to be her mate, Thel ‘Vadamee had often scoffed at the notion of destiny. As kaidon and a prestigious hero of the Covenant, he was well-versed in Covenant religious texts but had never allowed it to obscure the one truth he always held: the universe was guided by the bold and ambitious. The Forerunners may have been godly in nature, but it was through action that their creations had persevered through the ages. But his wife, Fayta, saw things differently. “The fabric of our reality is not a dead thing, like a piece of argil waiting to be moulded,” she once told him. “The future is alive and constantly in motion...just like you, my restless vsekhei. The universe breathes with steady rhythm and direction—with purpose.” “And what purpose is that?” he had asked, to which her expression softened. “Cherished one, you chase after finality before you even try to understand it. You have seen more years in this life than I, and I would not desire to know the answers you do. Wisdom and knowledge seek us out when it is ours to claim, and not a moment before.” Thel’s questioning stare deepened. “So why do you gaze into the future, ad’tunhea? Why have you guided me so many times on my path?” He could still remember the lingering smile she wore as her hand gently caressed his face. For all the warmth it held, there was a hint of sadness within. “Because it is my duty to do so, Thel ‘Vadamee. My visions of the coming years remain hazy to me, and I’ve been wracked with terror by the glimpses of your future...but I will stand by you through your every triumph and pitfall, as I vowed to do on the day of our union.” Thel opened his eyes at the sound of the bridge doors sliding open behind him. He swiveled about in his command chair to see a lone Zealot marching in without so much as a glance at the command crew. It was Veer ‘Nefalee, a long-time ally and one of his most trusted Field Marshalls. Thel stood from his hovering seat and stepped down to meet the officer at the edge of the central platform. Veer stopped shy of where the ramp connected with the elevated platform, standing beneath his superior’s eye level as a show of subservience. As much as Thel valued such displays of loyalty, he honestly thought Veer’s mannerism were often too punctilious considering how long they had worked together. “Fleetmaster, all ships have linked their broadcasts to ours. Ranking officers are awaiting your briefing.” Thel strode past the Zealot, who swiftly fell into step after him. “What of our new additions?” he inquired as they exited the bridge through another of its numerous doors. “Brought on board, as you ordered,” Veer informed him. “They’ve been taken to the transmission chamber under the escort of General ‘Yendamee.” “Good,” Thel said curtly, albeit with a pronounced scowl. “The task before us will demand my utmost attention, and I’ve little patience to waste on these conspirators placed under my command.” The two of them reached a small gravity lift at the end of the hallway. Thel placed one hand upon the holographic panel beside it, and the surrounding energy field dissipated. He and Veer stepped inside, and immediately the floor vanished beneath them as they were whisked through the ship’s numerous levels. Moments later, the gravity propellers eased them to a stop and a second barrier parted to reveal another chamber; this one was dimly lit, save for the holograms cast from the central projector. The images of Sangheili placed their fists over their hearts as their Fleetmaster stepped out of the lift and into their midst. But of the three figures who stood before him in person, only one of them—Sovol ‘Yendamee—mirrored the gesture. Thel inclined his head at the dutiful General as he approached the projector, but his gaze did not leave the other two. “We begin our attack at the start of the next cycle,” he declared to the officers gathered around him, both present and holograms. “The humans have had much time to prepare for our arrival, but for now our presence remains undetected. But they will know we are coming, and if you are careless enough to underestimate our cornered prey, then your life will be deservedly made forfeit by these nishum.” Beside ‘Yendamee, one of the Sangheili stepped forward. “And you would leave the safety of your flagship to lead by example, I presume?” he challenged. “Or were the fables of the great Thel ‘Vadamee merely that—fables?” “You presume correctly, Sev ‘Wattinrzoree,” Thel responded unflinchingly. “Your battles against the humans are fledgling in comparison to my fleet’s, but your days on the fringes of Covenant territory will not measure up here. I’m holding you both to the same standards of proficiency and discipline that I expect out of my own officers, especially if you intend to honour the reputation of your Imperial Admiral and those under his command. Do you understand me?” The chamber was silent as Sev and his companion stared down their new superior. Veer, Sovol, and every hologram was still, watching without moving a muscle. “Perfectly, Fleetmaster,” Sev said tersely, speaking for both of them. “Then you will take your orders directly from me, General. As you were among the scouting party that found this colony, the data you gathered should prove invaluable in your duties as Fieldmaster.” Thel turned to address the other officer. “And you, Khal ‘Devnumee, you’ll take command of one of my carriers, the Cleansing Wave. Its Shipmaster will be transferred here while I’m on the ground.” Sev’s mandibles opened slightly in surprise and outrage but said nothing as the sullen Khal shot him a warning look. Both Sangheili gave Thel a rigid salute, their fingers clenched tightly over their chests. “As for all of you,” the Fleetmaster continued, now addressing the holograms. “Your orders are simple. Find the humans’ points of resistance, eliminate them one by one. You know their strategies, and once we engage, you will know their numbers. Perform your duty, and victory will follow. On the blood of our fathers...” “...On the blood of our sons!” chorused the officers in unison. Thel deactivated the projector, leaving only the four Sangheili standing in the chamber with him. His eyes remained locked with Sev’s, who was now quite visibly furious. “I know what you’re doing,” he growled. “Separating our roles, putting Khal somewhere where he cannot act...” “Act upon what, Fieldmaster?” Thel asked quietly. “Did you think your intentions were not obvious to me? That the Prophets would place you under my command if I were as seditious as your Imperial Admiral?” “You want that title for yourself,” scoffed Sev, “and this is an opportunity for the Prophets to hand it to you. They’ve made that clear by forbidding Admiral ‘Wattinree from leading this campaign himself.” “Watch your tone, outsider,” cautioned Sovol, speaking at last. Thel held up a hand. “My personal ambitions are none of your concern,” he replied calmly. “And there is a great deal that the Prophets suspect Admiral ‘Wattinree has not told them, something I’m sure you’re aware of. I will be candid—it’d be in your best interests to do away with this charade and avoid unnecessary complications. Tell me what Xytan is after on that colony—why he’s taken so long to report its location back to High Charity—and I will see to it that he does not lose any more favour with the Prophets.” The defiance did not leave Sev’s eyes as he responded. “Your claims are unfounded, Fleetmaster. Now, I must prepare for the mission.” As he made for the exit, Sovol moved to stop him, but Thel gave him a slight shake of the head and the loyal General let them pass. Khal turned and followed Sev away, and the doors whirred shut behind them. This is no simple task the Prophets have entrusted me with. Dealing with the humans will be fairly straightforward by comparison. Putting aside the thought, the Fleetmaster turned his attention to Veer and Sovol. “Ready your troops before we make the precision jump,” he told them. “Have them ready to deploy on re-entry.” Not for the first time, Thel wondered if destiny was always intent on testing one’s character so thoroughly. But if this is what I must do to be proven worthy of my ambitions, then I will not falter. Episode I: Invasion 1 1020 HOURS (UNSC STANDARD) // AUGUST 5, 2542 Location: UNSC HIGHCOM FACILITY DELTA-1, THEMATA TERRITORY // PLANET ALLUVION, BHAAKTO SYSTEM “She’s late,” Maddison noted, without looking up from the device she was turning and fiddling with between her nimble fingers. Standing behind her was Lian, who was running system checks on the demo expert’s armour. “‘Late’ isn’t in ONI’s vocabulary,” she disagreed. “You know how the Captain works. I bet she’s cooking up something serious for this mission.” “As long as the Covenant doesn’t start cooking the colony first,” muttered Maddison. She frowned as a red light on the device started blinking. “Huh, that’s a new one—hey!” The object was snatched away by Eldar, who promptly disassembled it in two swift motions. He returned her scowl with his own. “Experiment on your own time,” he said, brandishing the parts in her face before shoving them back into her hands. “Preferably when you’re a) wearing the proper equipment, and b) not sitting at the bottom of a HIGHCOM facility.” Maddison’s annoyed look was now an offended one. “That wasn’t even an explosive, just so you know. Besides, how many times have I blown us up?” “Four,” Lian responded immediately, now looking through the copious amounts of ordnance in her teammate’s storage components. “That time on New Harmony didn’t count,” Maddison protested. “Even Nyarai said so.” “No, I said you effectively wiped out the surrounding Covenant units,” corrected Nyarai, who was sitting cross-legged on the far side of the briefing room. “Still doesn’t mean I appreciated digging our way out of there.” The doors slid open just then, and the team leader, Felix, stepped in with not one but two officers. One of them was Jazmine Utah, the operating CO of their unit, but it was the other woman in ONI uniform that caught every Spartan’s eye even as they rigidly stood at attention. “As you were, VELOX,” said Utah, though her voice was more brisk than usual. “I apologize for the delay, but there were some details we had to confirm on the invading force before we could decide how to proceed. Commander Osman will fill you in on the situation.” It was more than likely that Serin Osman noticed the frigid looks pointed in her direction, but she gave no sign of response as she stepped over to the briefing table and promptly inserted a data chip into its reader. A translucent image of Alluvion flickered into being, along with over two scores of Covenant capital ships hovering over its holographic form. “The enemy fleet entered detection range fifty-seven minutes ago,” she told the Spartans. “The intel gathered from previous Covenant incursions have matched its profile as ‘The Fleet of Particular Justice’, which has been responsible for the glassing of six colonies in as many years. We also have limited data on its leader, who we call ‘The Destroyer’.” She tapped a button, and the projection was replaced with that of a ferocious-looking Sangheili. “He is believed to have led ground campaigns on every colony he’s assaulted, and he will be your primary target for this operation.” Eldar raised an eyebrow. “Beg pardon, Commander, but how are we supposed to tell this Destroyer apart from the rest of his hinge-heads?” “ONI will be monitoring the battle closely for the duration of this campaign, VELOX Five,” Osman responded, looking unfazed even as Utah’s eyes narrowed in annoyance. “I will inform you when we have a fix on his whereabouts. In the meantime, your task will be to neutralize as many of his top-ranking officers as you can manage. In addition,” she continued, raising her voice slightly as Maddison opened her mouth to interject, “ONI has intercepted and decrypted part of a transmission from the Covenant scouting party that appeared more than half a year prior. Aside from the fleet’s arrival being several months late from our predictions, we have reason to suspect that their motives extend beyond a mere invasion—we suspect they may be looking for something on Alluvion. Once again, you will be updated on your orders as the situation progresses. Any questions?” “Just one,” said Nyarai, before the other Spartans could speak out of turn. “How are our chances looking? Of winning this one, I mean.” Osman pondered this for a moment. “As I said, we had months to prepare for this invasion,” she replied. “The UNSC is prepared to evacuate the planet if need be, but if all goes well that won’t be necessary. Needless to say, the odds will tip more strongly in our favour with each Covenant officer you take down...especially if you are successful in assassinating the Destroyer himself. Good luck, VELOX.” Without waiting for a response, the former Spartan turned and strode out of the room. “A pleasure as always, Serin,” muttered Lian, even after the doors slid shut. “Enough,” Utah growled. “I understand the history between you and Commander Osman, but I need not remind you we have more important things to focus on.” “Come on, Captain, we all know how you feel about Os,” Maddison scoffed. “And you heard her yourself. ONI’s been winding up for this standoff and chances are they’ve already done the numbers on collateral.” “What would you have us do, VELOX Three?” their commanding officer snapped. “Once the Covenant finds a colony, the question of what follows becomes not ‘if’ but ‘when’. You have your orders, so get to work.” “Hostile ground forces have concentrated along the areas bordering Alluvion’s oceans,” informed Felix, speaking for the first time since entering the room. “Commander Osman has marked the first five targets for us in the intel packet. Download them to your HUDs and be ready to move out in five. The Covenant is moving fast, VELOX, so we have to be faster.” As the other Spartans equipped their helmets, Nyarai linked up a private channel to the team leader. “Be honest, what do you make of all this?” Felix sighed, although to anyone else in the room he appeared impassive underneath his armour. “I think Maddison’s got a point, Ny. Utah isn’t wrong, really, this invasion was inevitable from the moment the scouting party located Alluvion. But I get the feeling ONI wants them to find whatever it is they’re looking for here—even if it costs a few million lives.” “Even if we lose the colony?” Nyarai pressed. “Think ONI’s willing to go that far just to have a shot at stealing whatever the Covenant wants from under their noses?” He did not respond. The question was left hanging in the air because they both knew the answer. VELOX had no place in making decisions, only in executing them. And once again, the duty had fallen upon them to walk the fine line between protecting humanity and letting them burn. Sonasaurus | Talk • Contribs 2 148TH UNIT // CYCLE 3 // 7TH AGE OF RECLAMATION [ 0623 HOURS // AUGUST 5, 2542 ] Location: EN-ROUTE TO THE CCS-CLASS BATTLECRUISER DAMNATION AND GLORY // IN ORBIT AROUND PLANET BHAAKTO VI, BHAAKTO SYSTEM "That was getting out of hand, Sev - your ignorance may have jeopedised his plans." Khal 'Devnumee slams his subordinate into the back of the Phantom, leaving him pinned against the wall. The older warrior, stunned for a second, quickly breaks out of the headlock. Under normal circumstances, this may have represented the end of a long friendship. These are no ordinary circumstances. He pushes Khal back away from him and points an angry finger at his friend. "Jeopedised? I swear in the name of the gods that I have done nothing of the sort - and you know it." He lets his arm fall limp and sighs, taking a step to the side. "To that end, it was necessary. 'Vadamee has already revealed his suspicions about us, and will have difficulty interfering with our plans in the future." Khal's arm, tense as if ready for another strike, twitches before relaxing his hand around his neck. He pulses his mandibles for a moment. "You-... You are right, brother. I should not have attacked you - that- that was-" "The stress. The enemy of discipline," Sev finished. Khal throws an acknowledging nod before turning away. In the past few weeks, Sev sadly noted that the tension of their mission was taking their toll on Khal, with the deep rings forming around his eyes and his outbursts coming almost daily. A true shame. I wonder how long it has been since he felt that youthful eagerness at Harvest. Sev shakes himself out of his momentary trace and presses on. "I had to make a move to force him to drop his deceitful attitude. We cannot afford to be outmaneuvered by our own." Khal slowly nods repeatedly as he straightens his back, taking the time to take a few deep breaths. "I cannot find fault with your logic. Not when the Light is so close." "Do you even know what we are looking for?" Khal makes a challenging glare, before looking down. "The Imperial Admiral has told me enough. All you need to do is find the holy shrine where it rests - I apologise... But I cannot disclose it to even you, old friend." A slight bump shakes the dropship and noise from the outside reverberates through the metal hull. Knowing it's time to disembark, Sev bows his head and beats his right fist on his chest, which Khal promptly returns. "I will pray that the pathetic infidels know not what we are looking for. But I will make sure that we will be quick," Sev promises. He turns and awaits the doors to open, knowing he must prepare his advanced force. Yes, I need to make it quick. I will make sure this is the last time anyone uses me. He sighs; no matter what, this will be his last mission of the war - even if he succeeds. ERROR 343: Requested database has been Severed 3 148TH UNIT // CYCLE 3 // 7TH AGE OF RECLAMATION [ 0714 HOURS // AUGUST 5, 2542 ] Location: ABOARD CAS-CLASS CARRIER SEEKER OF TRUTH // IN ORBIT AROUND PLANET BHAAKTO VI, BHAAKTO SYSTEM Sovol strode through the dimly lit hall, contemplating the two other Sangheili officers, now that he was done preparing the troops. Sev seemed to be loyal to Xytan. That made sense. After all, Sovol was loyal to Thel. Khal, on the other hand, was something different. I'll find out what you two are up to. Eventually. Sovol arrived at his quarters. His officer was already there. "Summon my younger brother at once," ordered Sovol. "I must inform him of something." "Yes, General. I will at once." As the Sangheili bustled away, Sovol settled into his quarters. He walked over to his armory and pulled out the energy sword inside. He had never thought this day would come. Years ago, when Sovol was a child, he wouldn't have even thought of being good enough to join the military. Now, he was a General, and one of Fleetmaster Thel 'Vadamee's finest at that. Sovol had many questions on this campaign, particularly on what Sev and Khal found, but it would have to wait. "You requested me, brother?" Sovol turned to find himself facing his younger brother. "Yes Akorn, I have news for you." Akorn nodded and gazed at the quarters. Special Ops most likely did not have these refinements for Operators. "So, what is this news, General?" "Please, do not address me by that title. We are brothers, are we not?" "Yes." Sovol looked Akorn up and down. His armor was in peak condition, shining jet black like the Obsidian of Quendor. "I congratulate you on your return to the military. I am enlightened to know that you will serve under the Fleetmaster in this battle." Akorn shifted around in his harness. "I am flattered, brother." Sovol clicked his mandibles and went on. "So, is my son Grono well? Have you left him in capable hands?" Akorn nodded again. "The local village couple, you know of them? They have taken good care of him on my campaigns, so I have left him in their trust. He is almost of military age himself, you know." Sovol sighed in relief. "Personal information aside, I have summoned you here to tell you that our campaign will start very soon. The Dohmoh and their Demons will suffer." Akorn mused through his helmet, before taking a deep breath. "I have news for you too, brother. My Special Ops unit-" Sovol interrupted him. "I know you have joined the Kono'gava, but do not let it get in the way of your loyalty." Akorn shook his head and stated, "Not to correct you Sovol, but my priority this mission is not to kill, but to retrieve." Sovol was now interested. This was getting curious. "Go on. Retrieve what, exactly?" "I do not know yet." "Hmm. So be it. We strike soon. I will relish the Nishums dying by my blade." Sovol replied. "So will I, Sovol." Akorn bowed his head and beat his right fist on his chest in submission to Sovol, and exited the room. Sovol turned to his console, thinking of his teenage son and a dead wife. Rheta died of illness. And illness is a plague. Humanity is a plague, so they must be extinguished. The General's thoughts turned to his son Grono. I only hope I will survive to see the day that my son takes up arms against humanity and stands alongside Akorn and I. But that will not be now. For now, I will have my blade drenched in human blood. UnggoyZealot (talk) 21:14, March 1, 2018 (UTC) 4 21ST UNIT // CYCLE 4 // 7TH AGE OF RECLAMATION [ 1410 HOURS // AUGUST 5, 2542 ] Location: LICINIA OCEAN, 224 KM OFF THE COAST OF SALAMIS // PLANET ALLUVION, BHAAKTO SYSTEM Jeran ‘Demalee was no aristocrat, but he could sense the secrecy beneath the task given to him and his division. He had worked under Thel ‘Vadamee ever since the decorated Zealot gained leadership of the Fleet of Particular Justice, and Jeran had never known him to be so cryptic about what they were trying to accomplish. The Commander observed the formation of platforms hovering across Alluvion’s ferocious, turbulent oceans, each of them populated with throngs of Special Operations troops; at the centre of each platform was a cylindrical energy barrier, which parted the unruly waters and allowed their company of Huragok safe access into the depths of the ocean floor. If Jeran had to guess, he would assume they were searching for a holy relic, though if that were the case he could hardly fathom why Thel would keep it quiet. More likely than not it had something to do with the officers from the Combined Fleet of Righteous Purpose, and even now the Commander was puzzled as to why the Prophets had them come along for this mission. From where he stood upon the enormous central platform, Jeran peered up the enormous gravity lift beside him. Hovering high above them was one of the fleet’s cruisers, the Tenacious Predator, keeping the unit guarded against human aircraft while awaiting whatever they were excavating. The power generator mounted on the main platform also projected a plasma barrier around the nearby platforms, to keep out any potential seaworthy vessels from reaching them. Jeran surmised that like the Sangheili, the humans had largely done away with water engagements ages ago. All the same, I wouldn’t put it above them to be prepared should the need arise. As if in response to his thoughts, his comms received a signal from one of his officers. It was Tawri ‘Antinree, who was keeping his eyes on the horizon for signs of trouble. “Commander, fifty human warships are approaching by sea,” the sniper reported. “And it looks like more are joining them.” “Are they approaching the perimeter?” Jeran asked. “No, they’re slowing down,” Tawri responded. “They’ll have spotted the energy shield by now and are taking formation. Your orders?” Jeran thought about it. He had never seen what human sea-ships were capable of, but he doubted they had the firepower to break through the barrier. But in his experience, their foes had often proven to be more resourceful—and disruptive—than the Covenant was willing to give them credit for. Being moored here will be taxing enough without the humans trying to contest my presence...and I am hardly in the mood for surprises. The Commander debated whether he should request a bombardment from the Tenacious Predator—show the humans that their endeavours were as fruitless by sea as they were by air. But raining plasma down on the ocean could damage or destroy whatever it was Jeran was supposed to find here, and once again he felt a twinge of frustration at being left out of the loop. Does the Fleetmaster himself even know what we are meant to accomplish here? Or is this some fool’s errand concocted on whatever little data the Prophets decided to give us? Regardless, the platforms would have to move if nothing was found, and Jeran could not simply hope that the human fleet would leave if he simply ignored them. So after much debating, he relayed his orders to Tawri. “Signal the Tenacious Predator to deploy aircraft. I want to see what kind of weapons are on those warships.” Sonasaurus | Talk • Contribs 5 1415 HOURS (UNSC STANDARD) // AUGUST 5, 2542 Location: UNSC DIAMONDHEAD, LICINIA OCEAN, 283 KM OFF THE COAST OF SALAMIS // PLANET ALLUVION, BHAAKTO SYSTEM "No." "No." "No!" "...I'll talk to the presiding officer. Belay that order for now. Stick to your station. I'll figure it out dammit!" Commander Angelica Hurst, Callsign: SEAKEEPER, shut down the communications array system on her console and stared at the holographic-planetary map slowly rotating on the tactical display table in front of her. She planted her palm on her head and covered her eyes. She was surrounded in darkness for a moment before she let her hand relax to her side. The next, slow thirty seconds were spent on exhalation. The Commander took in her breathes and allowed her chest to inflate with air, she let it escape after at the same pace. There was a fire burning in her heart and one behind her forehead. The former came with anger, the latter came with frustration. "Commander. Your pulse has dilated significantly in the last two minutes, should I request medical staff to perform a diagnostic?" Hurst glanced down at the green beach ball hovering in a shuffling surf with some respite. "No Hopper! ...I'm, fine. Just a headache." "I can have a medic bring a couple of pain-killers-" "No. I'm good." "You are taking your time on completing the orders handed out by the Unified Command. Do you find yourself in functioning health? If you like - I can forward the information to your subordinates-" "No! Hopper, go back to diagnostics analysis, I need a moment..." "Yes, Commander." The holographic beachball disappeared from the edge of the analysis table. Hurst went back to rubbing her forehead and squeezing at the bridge of her nose to relieve stress. Too many things were not going her way at this moment. It was later in the day - Hurst had already finished her last meal in a manner that would have made her training cadets back at Patuxent River Cadet Academy proud. First, the Covenant show up out of the blue - sure, most of the Navy had been preparing for such an eventuality given the string of colonies one particular Covenant fleet had been burning into Humanity's interior dominion. Hurst had been well aware of the threat but no one had brought her into the board meetings to coordinate strategy and to develop war games for local forces. The Army and Air Force did their own thing. The Marines reported to the Unified Ground Command. And the Navy did Navy things, coming and going. But no one had the time nor the budget assembled to give the Maritime department time to prepare. Second, the upper echelon had already packed up and high-tailed it out of the area. Any maritime officers above the rank of Captain had been moved to Reach or Earth six months ago. And Alluvion's local Maritime office was a burning hole in the ground, melted in the ongoing fighting for the colony's coastal population centers. Third, based on what few satellites and aerial intelligence that the Navy and Air Force could gather - the Covenant Empire was drilling into the sea itself, looking for something. They propped up a giant shield, dozens of defense riggings, and a single battlecruiser. The aliens were keenly aware of the UNSC's maritime capabilities and had planned accordingly. The Covenant had every advantage in this battle - they were playing defense. They had the numbers, the technology, the firepower. It was difficult to tell if they had a full understanding of the battlespace. Aliens were always hard to read from their command structure to their doctrines. Depending on the commander and their objective, they could behave any which way. Especially concerning species. With their multicultural ranks, there was any number of strategies that the Covenant could employ. Whoever was the commander of this campaign was clearly forward-thinking, however. He didn't overstay his welcome in space - he literally blasted through the planet's orbital installations and deployed troops to the coastlines and the oceans straight away. Flattening out the tactical display and narrowing into a battle space of several hundred kilometers - Commander Hurst could see the enemy's defenses but not much else. The battlecruiser. The shielding. The rigs. It was still impossible to see below the shields either but inspection of the tidal forces clearly displayed that the Covenant was purposely slowing the movement of the oceans so they could operate efficiently. Something about that at least suggested they expected to be over the oceans for a while. She glanced out to the observation cameras that substituted for windows and could make out the thin, bubbly hull of the Covenant battlecruiser as something akin to a cigar. The energy shield below it radiated white with energy, its surface details were impossible to see through. "Ma'am! A priority call, your personal terminal! Looks to be a Naval Intelligence callsign." A signals lieutenant reported from his station. "Put it through," Hurst replied simply as she turned back to her communications devices. She waited for the audio pop of connection before greeting the individual. "Callsign: SKYKEEPER. Who do I have the privilege of speaking to?" Distant Tide (talk) 00:51, March 6, 2018 (UTC) 6 34th UNIT // CYCLE 4 // 7TH AGE OF RECLAMATION [ 1739 HOURS // AUGUST 5, 2542 ] Location: ABOARD THE CCS-CLASS LIGHT CRUISER DAMNATION OR GLORY // EN-ROUTE TO ALLUVION, BHAAKTO SYSTEM It was times like these that the gestalt questioned whenever the Covenant knew the value of the superior lifeform they had aboard their ship. Nogoda Yugo Husgoa was still exiting it's containment capsule and spreading itself through into it's vessel when the Field Master began his speech. It spread it's collective through every cranny like long thin fingers, perfectly designed to comfortably accommodate it's mass. Such care given to a Lekgolo was unusual, but when said collective was utilising a Scarab battle-mech capable of leveling entire armies on a whim, every attempt had to be taken to prevent it from giving out unnecessary casualties - a thought that amused it. It allowed itself to bond with the Scarab's sound and optical feedback system, giving Nogoda's entire body relief from the darkness and silence as it's thousand eyes and ears dug into the detail of it's immediate environment. "Each of you are hand-picked for this mission, for your skill, your experience, and above all, your loyalty to the Imperial Admiral. For that reason, we have been given a holy mission that goes far beyond our typical duties." From the obvious scratches, dings and custom additions that somehow resulted in an intriguingly-elaborate armour, Nogoda knew that this pathetic creature - Sangheili - would be it's leader for the next attack. Nevertheless, it's slow vibrating groan was suppressed by it's curiosity of it's next assignment. "Many cycles ago, one of our faithful scouts brought whispers to our fleet - whispers of a new heretic colony to cleanse. One that our forefathers had blessed. Unfortunately, a warning was brought before us." Nogoda turned it's optics around; for such a large, open room the Field Master decided to host the meeting in, there was a lack of participants from the lesser species. Only about three dozen saurian vermin standing as straight as possible could be seen, painted in black or white, and even a few coloured dark purple with yellow streaks are present. Nogoda's worms reverberated with a laugh; it always knew that it was above the rank-and-file, but this confirmed just how high it was, to be trusted among such an esteemed group. Suddenly, a massive holographic sphere flashed on, drawing Nogoda's full attention to it. The lead Sangheili coughed before continuing. "For whatever reason, the Imperial Admiral has reason to believe that this world hides a relic that is powerful beyond our most unrealistic dreams - it cannot be trusted to fall into the hands of the Hierarchs. It is simply called the 'Light'." In the crowd, a Sangheili in black armour stands. "What does it do, Field Master 'Wattinrzoee?" He spits out. Even across the room, Nogoda can feel the energy from Sev suddenly pulse; if the Field Master was unsettled, he did not show it nevertheless. "I cannot tell you that, brother. I can only tell you the artifact's location - in a region I have come to call 'The Calm Waters'." The sphere disappears, in it's place a geographic map with elaborate glyphs dotting it. "There are numerous dig sites already established by Special Operations forces loyal to the usurper. We will be inserting you as reinforcements, yet your primary mission will be to find the resting place of the artifact. Any questions." Another warrior, this one with smoother skin and spotless armour, stands up quickly. "Why are we betraying the great Thel 'Vadamee? Why are we even here if forces are searching for the artifact itself?" Sev cocks his head and two ultras march up to the SpecOps Major and take him away, dragging him despite his kicks, struggle and desperate remarks. "This mission requires silence on our part - any spies will be quickly discovered, and dealt with by my hand. In short, we cannot trust anyone outside this room, for I fear that they may bring ruin to us all. And we cannot especially trust the Supreme Commander, for his allegiances lie with the Prophets, not the Sangheili. Any other questions." He slowly moves his head, and after a moment turns off the hologram. "You are to report to myself and myself only even if the word "Light" is merely mentioned. You are dismissed: head to your stations." ERROR 343: Requested database has been Severed 7 21ST UNIT // CYCLE 4 // 7TH AGE OF RECLAMATION [ 1410 HOURS // AUGUST 5, 2542 ] Location: LICINIA OCEAN, 224 KM OFF THE COAST OF SALAMIS // PLANET ALLUVION, BHAAKTO SYSTEM Jusan 'Sasovai gripped his energy sword in his hand as he paced along the edge of the platform, watching the small dots on the horizon over the choppy oceans of this world, indicating the approaching human sea vessels. The swordsman snorted with impatience as he heard a report behind him that the vessels were coming to a halt outside the perimeter platforms surrounding them. Even on the central platform, the progress of digging was annoyingly slow, and Jusan had been itching for combat since shortly after arriving. Yet he knew that, even if they had continued approaching, the human vessels wouldn't have been able to breach the barriers and land troops, let alone anyone worth his time in combat. Like so many of his campaigns before, he could see this day coming to a close with nothing more than a massacre of whatever troops the humans managed to land. The aristocrat's eyes were drawn upwards as he heard the scream of banshees flying overhead towards the human vessels, briefly halting his march along the edge of the central platform. Watching them fly towards the dots on the horizon, and be met by even more dots streaming up into the air, Jusan couldn't help but hope the harassment would be enough to force the humans' hands. Perhaps they might have a surprise that could at pose some challenge to the group left to oversea the digging, but everything he had seen from the humans in the past indicated the wouldn't be much of a threat. It was hard to imagine soldiers he thought less of than the grunts he was so often stuck with, but the typical bunch these current enemies of the Covenant threw at him were close behind. Yet, he had heard tales of demons that walked among them, strong enough to match any Sangheili. But these were a rare breed indeed, and not one he had encountered himself yet. Perhaps this deployment would be different, and he could finally test the stories himself. The click of a the boots of a passing Sangheili brought his attention back to the platform, and he turned, reattaching his energy sword to his armor, grateful to have left it deactivated and spared himself the dishonor of having to deactivate an unused blade. Marching from the edge of the platform, 'Sasovai approached his Commander standing closer to the center of the platform, coming to a halt next to him. "Commander. These humans merely delay their own deaths, staying on the horizon. What do they expect to accomplish against our barriers?” Timothy Emeigh (talk) 02:31, March 18, 2018 (UTC) 8 34th UNIT // CYCLE 4 // 7TH AGE OF RECLAMATION [ 1739 HOURS // AUGUST 5, 2542 ] Location: LICINIA OCEAN, UNSC MARITIME COMMAND CENTRE // ALLUVION, BHAAKTO SYSTEM Fire. Fire everywhere. For a second, all Private First Class Edmond Dahm could do was watch in awe as silhouettes ran slowly, almost like a chorus of dancers. The beautiful wisps of energy that was fire kept him transfixed. He looked up, and he saw the cracks neatly form slowly, and begin to open up and then- And then the screams around him filled his ears, with the cracking of concrete and metal finally springing him into action. He sees the floor above him give way, and he rolls to his left, through the fire and safely to the other side. The object crashes loudly, and no doubt that it would've squished poor me... ERROR 343: Requested database has been Severed 9 Terminology