Ascetic Chronicles

WARNING Rated M for Mature, parental discression is advised for all users under the age of 18... just kidding! Read away!

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Part 01:

Chapter 01: Infiltration

Library

The wind howled over the snow covered, wasteland as if to scare off anyone who dares to cross it. Huge mountains cascaded from the horizon far off to the east, while to the west a large canyon cut into the earth. A huge structure pierced through the snow just to the north. The shadow of the ring’s band made the landscape all the more frigid and unwelcoming, but that didn’t stop the being slowly making his way towards the Installation’s Library. The Creature is one of the Sangheili race, a species of fierce, proud, strong, intelligent warriors, and skilled combat tacticians, commonly known as the Elites. But this lone Sangheili is not an ordinary worrior, he is an Ascetic Elite, the best of his kind, and he is on a mission. The Elite lept and bounded over the frozen teraine, his movements, unhesitant, and his speed, unwavering.

On his left hip was a standard Type-25 Plasma Rifle, on his right hip was a deactivated Type-1 Energy Sword that he had personalized to his likeing, and on his back, a Type-51 Carbine held tight as the Elite dived and manuvered over and around rocks and boulders. His Commanding Officer had offered him a Type-32 Ghost RAV but the Ascetic prefered it this way. Besides, the sound of the RAV would automaticly warn any Loyalist forces in the area. The Halo ring orbited so that the system’s star could light the path before him. The sunlight shown off his purple armor in a dazzling display, but the Ascetic imediantly slowed his progress and took cover. Shining armor is like a signal flare to Kig-yar or Jiralhanae Snipers. Luckaly, numerous thunderheads swarmed overhead, and blotted out the star’s light once again.

The Ascetic was getting closer to the large, Forerunner structure ahead, and he heard the faint humming of Covenant Ghosts, Wraiths, Banshees, and even a Phantom. He was in for a fight, that was obvious, but the Elite’s main objective was to secure a Landing Zone for his fellow Ascetics so that they can eliminate all hostile targets around the Halo’s Library, and secure the Index so that it will not fall into Loyalist hands. They cannot let the villainous Prophet of Pestilence activate the Halo Array. The Ascetic came to the edge of a large drop-off and peered over. It wasn’t a very long way to the bottom, he wasn’t worried about that. However, there were three to four Ghosts on Patrol and, hidden nearby, was a Type-25 Wraith heavy assault vehicle. The Ghosts were no problem, he could easly pick them off one by one, but the Wraith made things difficult. He had seen what it’s Mortar Cannon can do to an infantry movement, and if it’s equiped with twin automated Plasma Cannons on the “wings” of the tank or a singled, manned Plasma Cannon just above the driver’s hatch, boarding it will also be a hassel. He scanned the rest of the area; high above him near the top of the Library was a Type-52 Phantom Troop Carrier which could hold up to 16 Brute warriors, even more if it was carrying Grunts! Circling the Phantom were two Type-26 Banshee Ground Support Aircrafts. Again this worried the Ascetic. Once he cleared an L.Z. and the Separatist Phantom that had been following him deactivates it’s Active Camouflage, the Banshees could bear down upon them with their Mounted Fuel Rod Cannons. The Ascetic shook his head, he shouldn’t be worried, he’s an Ascetic! He had stared Death in the face more then once durring his life, this time made no difference! He took cover behind a rock and drew his Energy Sword, careful as not to alert any Sharp-Eyed Jackals to his position. He activated his own Active Camouflage device and a liquid-like transparency washed over him, and he vanished from sight. He lept off the edge of the Drop-Off and landed silently on the snow covered ground below. The snow storm that had befallen the area soon became his ally as it covered his tracks.

Chapter 02: Clear the L.Z.

The Ascetic rushed past a File of Unggoy and seached for the Wraith. He approched some kind of quary where a Legion of captured Separatist forces were excavating more Forerunner facilities beneath the Library. Watching over them was a Lance of Brutes, Jackals, and Grunts, along with the Mortar Tank.

“Damn… this just became much more difficult…” The Ascetic whispered to himself. He activated a Private Communications Channel to his Commander in the Cloaked, Separatist Phantom, “Excellency, it’s seems that we have an alternative objective… there is a quary of Separatist prisoners near the base of the Library, they are gaurded by a Loyalist Lance and a Mortar Wraith.

“Understood ‘Mentanics… Clear the Landing Zone first and we will see what can be done once we are on the ground,” The Com Channel went dead. The Ascetic, Ora ‘Mentanics, proceeded with his original objective. The Elite picked out a spot were the Phantom can disperse it's troops without the major risk of being spoted or destroyed. He silently killed the three Grunts that were in the area, and informed his Commander that a Landing Zone was secure, “Understood. Cover our landing ‘Mentanics, I do not wish to have a ‘Warm Welcome’, as the Humans put it,” The Commander said over the Com. Ora replaced his Energy Sword on his hip, drew his Covenant Carbine, and took cover behind some boulders. He heard the Cloaked Phantom drop down behind him, and the snow started to swirl around the L.Z. The dropship then became vissible long enough to drop off four other Ascetic warriors, then vannished again.

“Commander…” Ora bowed toward the Ascetic in golden armore, “Four Ghosts on patrol, Two Banshees circling above, a Mortar Wraith, and a Loyalist Phantom. My estimate is around fifty Loyalists,” Another Ascetic in White armore approached him, a Major.

“You are an Ascetic Stealth, ‘Mentanics,” The Major said, “You could have eliminated at least fifteen of those mongrols before we landed,”

“If I had done that, 'Otamics… Your Phantom might have been destroyed by the Banshees before you could escape from it. You should be thanking me…” Ora said, smiling within his helmet,

“Enough…” Commander 'Ardromics said steping between the two, “If you two keep arguing you’ll give away our position to the Loyalists…” The Commander servade the area, taking in the various spots that they would try to avoid and then delivered his orders, “Ora, I barely see the Barrel of a Type-50 Particle Beam Rifle upon that ridge,” The Commander said pointing, “Retreive it for me…”

“Yes excellency!” Ora said as he vannished from sight,

“Thel, Cairo… see if you can commendeer some of those Ghosts,” The Commander said to the Major in White Armour, and a Minor in Steel Armore. The two Ascetics drew their weapons, and moved out, staying undercover the best they could until Ora took out the Sniper. “Draken…” The Commander said looking toward a Young Ascetic in blue armore. The Young Elite was still only a student, but he was the son of one of the Sanghelios High Councilors and had been trained well, “Your with me youngling… Lets try to eliminate the Wraith and free those Separatist Prisoners.”

Chapter 03: Assault

The Landscape around the Library

Thel ‘Otamics and Cairo ‘Mansanics waited patiently behind a boulder until one of the Four Ghosts made it’s way towards the Ascetics. As it went past Thel lept from his cover and knocked the Grunt out of the Pilot’s seat, and killed the pleading, bipedal alien. Cairo hid the Ghost and the body of the Grunt, while Thel got into position to eliminate the threat of a second Ghost.

“Humph… This is becoming extreamly easy…” Thel had said, after killing another Grunt rider,

“Indeed, brother… Commander ‘Ardromics is becoming too confident in Ora and Draken… thus he gives us the easier missions…” Cairo said, hiding the body, “It has begun to irritate me…”

“I agree, brother… Commander Antairious would not be this iritating if he were still living… but I wish on him all the pleasures that the afterlife will bring him…” Thel said, replacing his Plasma Rifle’s battery pack as he waited for another Ghost.

The Jackal scaned the whole area around the Library. It saw nothing, but it had heard the distinctive sound of a Phantom eminating from the western side of the encampment. It was puzzling, and frightful at the same time. The Jackal had heard that the Separatist Phantoms had an Active Camouflage device. Could a Phantom have slipped in under his watchful eyes? Did it drop off a Creche of Special Opperations Elites? It might have continued to think of such things, but Ora didn’t give it a chance. His Energy Sword plunged through the Jackal’s frail body and killed the Bird like alien instantly. Ora burried the carcass under the snow and confesscated it’s Beam Rifle. Through it’s scope he could see the locations of the rest of his teammates: The Commander and the Ascetic Student were heading towards the quary, while Thel and Cairo were killing off the last Ghost. He left his Carbine with the dead Jackal and replaced it with the Beam Rifle, then Vanished again. Draken drew the hilt of his Energy Sword, but didn’t activate it. The Commander had ordered him to remain on the edge of the quary until the rest of the Ascetics arrive. The Commander himself had moved to the far side, and Draken was waiting for his signal. He suddenly felt a firm grip on his shoulder. As he twirled around he activated his energy sword and brought the blade up to Ora’s neck.

“Calm yourself, Draken! Save your energy for the Loyalists…” Ora said, lowering Draken’s arm,

“My apologies, Ora…” Draken said, deactivating his sword. Thel and Cairo walked up beside them.

“You almost lost a mandible, Ora…” Cairo taunted, “Any closer, and others would be mistaking you for Rtas ‘Vadum…” Even Ora laughed at this, remembering the Spec-Ops Commander’s appearance.

“Ascetics…” Draken said, pointing towards the Commander. He was giving the signal, “Time to go…” he activated his sword and made his way down into the quarry.

Chapter 04: Excavation

The Elites within the quarry were not dressed for these kind of conditions; their armor had been relieved from them, and they were given rags to replace it. They would die from the cold if the Ascetics didn’t act fast. Ora and Cairo headed toward a nearby Loyalist bunker, which was unprotected… Maybe it was the Loyalists that made the Ascetic’s mission too easy. The Bunker contained the captured Elites’ armor and weapons. Perfect. Once the Commander and the others free them, the Ascetics will have plenty of backup.

“It’s not like we’ll need it though…” Ora said to himself.

Commander ‘Ardromics immediately leapt into action, boarding the defenseless Wraith and hammering it’s hatch with his fists. It was puzzling why the Wraith didn’t have any mounted plasma cannons. If he himself had deployed these troops, he would’ve issued state-of-the-art equipment. He pushed aside this thought. If he had deployed these forces there would be no way to get a Separatist Phantom anywhere near the library, let alone a Phantom full of the Separatist’s best warriors! The Wraith’s hatch gave way under the Ascetic’s brutal strikes, and the Commander dropped a Type-1 Antipersonnel Plasma Grenade onto the pilot’s exposed head. The Commander jumped to safety just as the Grenade detonated. The Wraith exploded in a flash of brilliant, blue light, hurtling debris across the quarry. A shard of the Tank’s hull impaled a nearby Grunt, and a larger piece of the Mortar Cannon crushed the Grunt’s commanding Brute.

Draken thrust his blade into the gut of a Grunt and quickly retrieved it, decapitating a Jackal as his did so. Thel unloaded a full clip of Type-33 Needler rounds into a group of hostiles. The pink, translucent, crystalline projectiles pierced into the enemy forces, then exploded in a mass of pink, razor-sharp, shards. Draken drew his Plasma Rifle and fired upon a duo of Jackals, their Point Defense Gauntlets flaring orange, then red, and then finally diminishing in a flash of blue static.

Ora saw Draken’s handy-work from the bunker, and took out the defenseless Jackals from afar using his captured Beam Rifle. Both Jackals collapsed, their bodies twitched once or twice, then the beasts died. When the last few Grunts finally realized what was happening, two of them ran off and cowered behind a rock, while the rest activated two Plasma Grenades and ran towards their foes with the intent of sacrificing themselves for the sake of their Holy Covenant. The Grunts, however, didn’t get far with Ora wielding his sniper.

The Commander went over to the last of the cowering Unggoy with the intent of turning them to the Separatist’s side, but the Grunts lashed out at the Ascetic only to be sliced in two by the Elite’s sword.

“What a waste of a life…” The Commander said replacing his sword on his hip, “Ascetics, report!” Ora and Cairo walked up to him,

“The Bunker contains our ally’s captured equipment, Excellency. We should let the Separatists re-arm themselves before we storm the Library,” Cairo reported,

“Understood… Thel, Draken?” The Commander said turning his attention to the others,

“Loyalists in the area have been eliminated, Commander,” Thel said, “But I believe that the majority of the Loyalist defense force is located near the entrance of the Facility… we’ll need those captured forces…” The Commander nodded and ordered the Separatist prisoners to retrieve their personal armor and armaments.

“We’ll proceed to the Library’s entrance in 3 units,” The Commander informed them, “Anyone not ready will be left behind to fend for themselves.”

Chapter 05: Conflicts Within Alliances

The Zealot Field Master, Koronos 'Talmar

A Zealot retrieved his last weapon, a Type-25 Plasma Pistol, and spat on the rags that the filthy Loyalists had the nerve to give him to replace his gleaming golden armor.

“Fie those bastard Brutes! They will feel the full extent of agony and torment my blade can give!” At this the Sangheili activated his Energy Sword with a quick flick of his wrist. One of the Elites that had rescued his Legion from Slavery and the Cold approached him.

“Calm yourself, Field Master… There will be many more opportunities to kill the Jiralhanae mongrels,” The Commander said moving on to the other Sangheili soldiers, “This mission is not over yet…” The Commander and his Lance were wearing a type of armor that the Zealot had not beheld before.

“What is your place, Elite… are you a new force of Special Operations?” The Zealot questioned, following the towering Sangheili, “Or perhaps that is a new type of combat harness?”

“My Lance and I are Ascetics,” The Commander explained. The Zealot’s eyes widened as the legendary title was revealed, “I am the Commander of the Ascetic Apocalypse Lance,” The Commander motioned to the Crimson detail on his armor. The same color was on the armor of each of his Lance’s members, “The color of our Armour’s detail, classifies which Lance an Ascetic belongs to,”

“Yes I understand, Commander… you and the rest of the Ascetics have made a name of yourselves ever since the assassination of the High Prophet of Truth… especially your own Apocalypse Lance!”

“I thank you, Field Master… but your compliments are not needed,” The Zealot’s attitude suddenly changed,

“Neither are your services, Commander… with all due respect, We were given this mission first. I am the ranking officer of this operation…” The Zealot moved in front of the Ascetic Commander’s way, “And I intend to keep it that way. We are finishing our mission,” The Zealot said, motioning to the rest of his Legion, “Without your help…” The Commander’s rage flared,

“And with all due respect to yourself, Zealot…” The Ascetic boomed, his voice growling with frustration, “But if it were not for I and my Lance, you and your pathetic Soldiers would be covered with snow and ice! I am the commanding officer in this operation now, and I had been ordered by High Councilor Rama ‘Setum himself to continue were you failed…” The Ascetic turned and started to walk back to his Lance, “And I intend to Keep it that way…”

Chapter 06: Preparation

“Pack master, there has not been any contact with the Patrols nor the guards in the quarry,” A Brute Captain reported. The huge Brute Chieftain he was reporting to stroked his bearded chin.

“Ready the pack to defend the entrance, the Prophet must complete his noble work…” The Brute headed within the Library, and huge, silver-gray, doors closed behind him with an echoing thud. The Captain was just about to command his pack, but he caught a whiff of heresy and fired his Type-25 Spike Rifle into thin air, or so it seamed. The heated spikes pierced into some invisible force and a splatter of purple blood became visible on the installation’s “landing deck”. “I know you’re here spy… I can smell you from a mile away… tell your commanding heretic that storming this relic will be futile! None of you pathetic reptiles will survive!”

Ora leapt down to the rest of the Separatist Legion and deactivated his Active Camouflage. A Spike was protruding from his right shoulder, and it had caused his arm to become limp. He winced as he removed it, throwing the round on the metallic floor of the bunker, “Commander… a Century of Brutes await us at the top of the Installation,” Ora reported as Draken assisted him with bandaging his wound, “The blizzard has not diminished their sense of smell… they’ll smell us before we are half-way to the top…” The Commander nodded,

“Just Brutes?” He asked,

“No… amongst them are a File of Jackals, and a Creche of Grunts… of the Grunts, two amongst them wield Type-33 Fuel Rod Guns, and another two are manning Plasma Cannons. The are also two Type-26 Shade Turrets in the vicinity of the Library Doors…” Ora paused to catch his breath, “There is a Brute Chieftain within the Facility and… there may be a Prophet,” The Zealot jumped up and rushed over to the Ascetic,

“Did you hear any title? Do you think that Pestilence is within the Facility at this time?” The Field Master questioned,

“Unknown… But I did hear them mention a Prophet, that much is certain…”

“Then that settles it…” The Commander said, “Ready your troops, Zealot. I want this legion to be battle ready by the time we Ascetics are!” The Zealot nodded and rushed toward the Bunker’s entrance, and turned back to the Ascetics,

“And how long will you Ascetics take to prepare, Commander?” The Commander fed a new magazine into his Covenant Carbine,

“We’re ready now…”

Chapter 07: Loyalist Nobility

The Chieftain entered the large central chamber of the Library, it’s smooth columns cascaded high above the ground floor like great rods of ivory. High above was a large platform that began to lower towards a large pit in the center of the Library’s floor. Once the platform had come to a stop, the Chieftain boarded it and moved to the center. There, basking in the light of the Sacred Icon was a Prophet.

“Noble Hierarch of Pestilence… You must vacate the area…” The Chieftain said kneeling before the Loyalist Leader, “For your own safety, that is…” The Prophet said nothing, but merely rotated in his Gravity Throne to bring himself face-to-face with the Brute. The Prophet’s face looked aged and tired, but that was due to the Plasma burns that held a grip over the San ‘Shyuum’s skin. A Separatist Heavy Weapons Grunt, who had shot the Prophet, head-on, with a Fuel Rod Gun, had almost killed the Prophet. But, instead, the explosion had deformed the noble Hierarch. The Prophet stared angrily at the Chieftain,

“Was that an order, Brute?” the Prophet finally asked,

“What? No my lord! Never would I order you to-” The Brute was cut-off by the Prophet’s Gravity Cannon, which launched the Larger Chieftain across the platform like he was nothing,

“Learn your place, Chieftain! Otherwise, you will be thrown over to the Heretic Sangheili!” The Prophet preached to the Chieftain. The Brute tried to get back on his feet, only to be knocked back down by another blast from the Prophet’s weapon.

“Please… Noble Pestilence… There is a Legion of Heretics forming at the base of the Relic. If you stay, you will surely be captured!” The Chieftain explained. The Prophet lifted the Chieftain from the floor using it’s Gravity Gauntlet, a weapon that was created to give the Prophets the appearance of divine power. The Prophet used the traction option to bring the Brute towards him, and held the Chieftain at eye level to him.

“I do not need advise from a low-life Chieftain like you, Marbolus! I will leave when I so please…” The Prophet argued, tossing the Brute into a nearby pillar and lifting him up again, “Do you understand, Brute?”

“Yes… noble one…” The Chieftain said, fighting to stay in consciousness,

“Good… Now take your place just inside of the Relic. You and my… Friends… will be the last line of Defense before the Heretics can enter this installation,” He dropped the Chieftain to the floor, and went back to admiring the Sacred Icon. The Brute stumbled out of the chamber, and the Prophet looked towards the ceiling of the chamber, “I am relying on you to protect the Icon… the Chieftain is too weak and stubborn…” a sound of wings and screeches seamed to reply to Pestilence’s wishes, “Good…”

Chapter 08: Attack

Marbolus, the Brute Chieftain

The blizzard ripped at the Loyalists’ armor and nipped at their skin. It was as if the storm was taking the Separatists’ side, as the Brutes’ noses burned under the chill. A Minor Brute near the Captain started to complain,

“Damn this cold weather… all I smell is frozen liquid!”

“Silence! You sound like the Grunts… use your damned eyes…” The Captain ordered, but as if to go against the Brute’s wishes, the blizzard grew thicker, making it difficult to see through. The Brute Minor looked at the Captain as if to ask “What now” and the Captain back fisted the minor in the face, “Bastard…”

The Ascetics moved quickly through the Blizzard, their glowing orange vision enhancers and silvery tusk-like protrusions, made them look like demonic beasts heading to slauter their prey. The other Separatists, however, didn’t have sealed helmets which slowed everyone down. Luckaly they had already reached the last ramp that lead up to the Library main floor, waiting for the perfect moment.

There was a sudden lull in the blizzard, and the Brutes caught a strong wiff of Heresy, but before they could warn the others, the Separatists stormed up the final ramp and open fired. The Loyalists were taken by surprise and cursed the storm surrounding them.

Two Major Domos, weilding Fuel Rod Guns, took out both of the Shades before they had time to fire, while what few Elites weilding Beam Rifles took out some of the weaker enemy targets. The Ascetics and three other Elites weilding Energy Swords started taking out the straglers then worked their way into the Loyalist deffences. The other three Elites were the Zealot Field Master, and two Ultra Elites. All three had excellent swordplay, but they looked sloppy against the advanced styles of the Ascetics.

Draken leapt over a couple of Grunts to take out a more dangerous enemy, a Brute armed with a Type-25 Grenade Launcher, by plunging his sword through it’s chest. Draken then removed his sword and cut down the Grunts behind him in one smooth movement.

“Too easy!” The Young Ascetic taunted.

Ora rushed toward three Brutes, throwing his arms behind himand bending down so that the Brutes have a smaller target. The Ascetic Stealth got in the middle of the distracted beasts and twirled around, sliceing each of their backs upen, spilling blood all over the metalic floor.

Thel and Commander Mesa both ran at a Brute dual-weilding Type-52 Mauler Pistols, the Loyalist equivalent of the Human’s Shotgun. The Brute opened fired, pelting the Ascetics’ sheilds with hot, metal fragments, but the Elites were not effected. Thel came upon the Brute on it’s left side, the Commander on it’s right, the Ascetics’ swords met in the center of the Brute’s waist, separating the beast’s legs and torso.

Cairo drew both his Energy sword and his Plasma Pistol and rushed into a group of Jackals and Grunts. The Ascetic’s sword sliced through the Jackal’s deffence gauntlets like a knife through butter, while the Plasma Pistol took out the the Grunts. After, Cairo Joined the other Ascetics, along with the Zealot, in front of the Huge doors of the Library, while the rest of the Separatists distracted the Loyalist deffence.

“Ascetics… I’ll take it from here, My mission was to secure the Index, yours was to eliminate any Loyalist oposition around the Library… You’re performing your part,” the Zealot said motioning to the battle, “Alow me to perform mine…” The Zealot opened the doors, before the Ascetics could warn him, and golden warior was met directly in the torso with the Chieftain’s Type-2 Gravity Hammer and was launched off the Library’s top plateform, an undesirved end to a powerful leader. The Ascetics were knocked back by the following Gravity Pulse, and the Brute escaped back inside the Library.

“Damn Brute!” Thel said as the Ascetics recovered and persued the Cheiftain into the installation.

Chapter 09: Showdown

The five Ascetics walked causiously through the silvery halls of the Library, keeping an eye out for the Chieftain who had killed their Zealot ally.

“Ascetics… hand signals here on-” before the Commander could finish, the Chieftain came down on the Ascetics from above and slamed his hammer on the ground. The Gravity pulse knocked all the Ascetics on their backs except Draken, who was standing too far back for the Gravity to take effect. However, Draken rushed into battle against the Cheiftain and struck the Brute’s shoulder with his sword. The Chieftain’s armor reflected the swords energy to an extent but Draken still drew blood from the strike. The Brute howled in pain and swung his hammer at the Ascetic’s head, but Draken ducked and rolled out of the way. By this time the other Ascetics were up and ready for the Chieftain, encircling the Brute with their swords at the ready.

“I don’t know what unit you Heretics belong to…” The Chieftain said looking from Ascetic to Ascetic, “But I do know that you cannot defeat me!” The Brute’s reflexes were quicker than Cairo thought, for when he went in for an attack from behind, the Chieftain made a quick but hard blow to the Sangheili’s stomach with the end of it’s hammer. The Commander moved in and slashed at the Brute’s leg, but the Chieftain sidestepped and kneed the Elite in the neck. The Chieftain Back fisted a cloaked Ora, knocking the Stealth backwards, then twisted it’s fist around and struck Thel in the Chest. He swung his hammer at Draken once again, this time from overhead. Draken dodged again, but the Brute’s hammer struck the ground. Once again the pulse of gravity rushed around the Chieftain, and knocked Draken into a wall. The Brute went back to fighting the other Ascetics while Draken recovered, the young Ascetic watched the fight closely, trying to find a weakness. Got it! The Elite leapt forward, just after the Chieftain swung again, and slashed the Brute in the back. The non-reflective armor took the full damage of the attack; the Brute roared in pain and fell forward on his hands and knees. He barely had time to hit his hammer against the ground before the other four Elites rushed him. The Gravity wave knocked the Elites backwards and the Chieftain was on his feet yet again, but this time he was focused on killing Draken!

“Damn you, Child!” The Brute used another overhead swing, but Draken dodged and used the Gravity wave to his own advantage to roll back to his feet and into a ready position. The Brute charged at him bringing it’s hammer up to swing again, and Draken answered by charging himself. Just as the Brute was bring his hammer down, Draken sliced through the weapon’s hilt and struck the Chieftain in the face. The weapon’s two halves fell to the floor, useless now, and the Cheiftain howled in pain again, holding his head. A moment later, the Brute’s headdress split in two as well and a huge scar could be seen on the Chieftain’s face, as well as a look of fear and agony. The Brute lunged at Draken with the intent of strangling the Youngling, but Draken sidestepped and struck the Brute in the Back of the neck. The Blade sliced through the beast without resistance, and the Brute’s head fell to the floor; it’s body landed soon after. Dead. Draken looked to his fellow Ascetics, who were nodding with approval and amazement. Draken knew that, once he got back to their home world, Sanghelios, he would no longer be an Ascetic student.

Chapter 10: Pestilence

The Ascetics finally entered the main Chamber and there, awaiting on the central platform, was the Prophet. The San ‘Shyuum turned his Gravity Throne to face the Demonic-looking Ascetics, but to the Ascetic’s surprise, the Prophet wasn’t afraid or worried.

“I’ve been awaiting you, Ascetics…” The Prophet said in a grizzly voice, it’s face scarred and deformed. The Prophet had obviously been keeping a close eye on Separatist units, otherwise he might not have know of the Ascetics’ return to the Sangheili Ranks, “I take it that my Chieftain “Defender” Marbolus has been killed?”

“He was slaughtered the like mongrel he was, Pestilence!” The Commander announced, recognizing the Prophet instantly, “I had hoped that we could do the same to you… Unfortunately our mission is to capture you for the High Council to decide your fate,” The Prophet smiled, rather grotesquely, and started to rise into the air,

“If you Ascetics are so confident, then try to complete your mission!” The Prophet fired his Gravity Cannon at Thel, knocking him off his feet and into one of the Pillars. The Commander raced towards Pestilence’s throne, but was suddenly launched upwards by an invisible force, and slammed onto the cold floor.

“Ascetic’s be warned! The Prophet is in position of a Type-7 Anti-Infantry Gravity Gauntlet!” Ora said, taking cover from another blast from the Prophet’s Gravity Throne,

“I will cleanse you of your sins, Heretics!” The Prophet proclaimed, unleashing a frontal pulse of gravity from the Gauntlet. Draken had snuck around to the Prophet’s back, and was ready to pounce when he heard a large, buzzing sound from above.

“Drones! Take cover!” He yelled as the Insect-like aliens came from the roof of the Library and swarmed around the Prophet, who began laughing maniacally. Unlike many other drone swarms he had seen, this one’s members didn’t wield any ranged weaponry. Instead, half of the Drones had blades that seamed to protrude from their wrists, while the other half carried shortened Energy Staves. The Ascetics switched to their firearms and tried to eliminate this new threat, but instead of being killed instantly like many others, these Drones had energy shields!

“Damn…Thel! Use your Fuel Rod Gun!” The Commander said, slicing one of the deadly Drones in half as it flew at him. Thel had retrieved one of the Fuel Rod Guns that the Heavy Grunts had dropped during the battle outside. He aimed the heavy weapon into the Swarm and opened fire. The round connected with a Drone and exploded in a flash of neon green light. The explosion sprayed superheated plasma everywhere, killing any other Drones within a three-meter diameter of the explosion’s epicenter, but it still wasn’t enough. The countless other Drones swarmed out from where the Prophet had been and started attacking the Ascetics directly!

Cairo’s shield flared as five or six Drones slashed at him their with blades and Staves. He knew that they wouldn’t last long against this onslaught.

“Commander!” He yelled as he sliced what Drones he could with his sword, “Orders?”

“Fall back! There are too many for us to take alone!” The Commander ordered after realizing the Prophet had used the Drone swarm as a diversion to make his escape. The Ascetics made haste toward the exit, perhaps there were enough Separatists left outside to assist them.

The Last of the Separatists had wiped out the rest of the Loyalists soon after the Ascetics entered the Library, but their forces had been greatly depleted. Out of the remaining Elites, most of them were either wounded or dieing. Their Zealot Field Master and one of the Ultras had been killed in the battle. Once the doors opened they thought the mission had been completed but all that greeted them was a pulse of gravity that had wounded several others. The Prophet had escaped in the Loyalist Phantom that had been hovering above the Library waiting to initiate the evacuation.

“Damn Pestilence…” The Remaining Ultra, Ina ‘Alstram, cursed, “If it weren’t for him there wouldn’t have been another war, after Truth’s demise on the Ark,” She was unscathed from the battle, but her pride had been wounded. The Prophet had escaped, the mission was a failure, “At least things cannot get any worse…” But as if to challenge her statement, a large buzzing sound started to emanate from within the relic.

The Ascetics ran out through the large doors, firing their weapons back inside.

“Ready yourselves!” The Commander ordered, but he realized it was too late as the Drone swarm exploded out of the Library into the blizzard. The Insects attacked the wounded first, ripping the Elites’ flesh with their close-combat weapons. The Ascetics and the Ultra tried their best to keep the Drones at bay with their Energy Swords, but the Drones seamed to pure like a liquid out of the installation’s entrance.

Just before all hope for the Separatists’ survival was lost, two Separatists Phantoms and two UNSC Pelican Drop ships drifted from out of the snowy fog and opened fire on the swarms. After a while the last of the Drones fell dead on the Library’s top level and the Separatist ground forces breathed a sigh of relief and relaxed. One of the Phantoms drifted down to the level and opened it’s starboard hatch. Out came four Elite Honor Guardsmen and a Sangheili in a large silvery headdress and a flowing white robe. The Ascetics bowed down to the Elite immediately.

“High Councilor… we are not worthy of your presence…” The Commander said, bowing lower. The Councilor walked over to him and laid a hand on the Ascetic’s shoulder,

“It’s good to see you as well my Friend… What news do you have for me?” Councilor Antairious asked walking towards the entrance to the Library,

“Pestilence was here, Excellency… but we failed to capture him,”

“That is Fine, Mesa… as long as he didn’t retrieve the Index,” The Councilor said motioning to a landing Pelican, “We will take the Index back to Sanghelios and have it under constant surveillance. Without it, this Halo Ring will be useless.”

Chapter 11: The Sacred Icon

High Councilor, Baracuss Antairious

The Councilor, escorted by his Honor Guards and the Ascetics, entered the Library’s main chamber, stepping over dead Drones. A Clean-up team was present, removing the Loyalist bodies from the Relic. In the center a team of Humans were ready to remove the Index once the Councilor gave them the order,

“So much trouble over a green, T-shaped, piece of metal…” Said a marine as he extracted the Index from it’s holding devise,

“That ‘piece of metal’, as you put it, could wipe out every sentient being in the Galaxy if Pestilence possesses it. We have to make sure…” The Councilor said, taking the Icon from the Human, “That never comes to pass,” An Elite in cobalt armor entered the chamber,

“Councilor, your task force is ready to make leave when you return to the bridge of the Glimmering Emerald,” The Elite reported,

“Understood, Kartal…” The Councilor said, looking back to the rest of the Separatists and the Humans, “We should go. The Humans are arming a Nova Bomb with a remote detonator. If necessary, we will destroy this Installation, along with any Loyalist forces foolish enough to set foot on it’s soil,”

The Separatist Alliance began evacuating the area, once the Councilor exited the Relic. Elites gathered the weapons of their fallen comrades, while a Sangheili Priest gave a sermon for the Separatist lives lost in the battle, and gave blessings for those who survived. The Councilor approached the surviving Ultra, the Female’s body completely unscathed. She immediately bowed before the Separatist Leader respectfully, but the Councilor motioned her to rise,

“Let us skip the formalities, Ultra Elite. You are to be praised for your excellent leadership after your Field Master was killed, as well as your excellent Swordsmanship,” The Councilor complimented, shaking the Female’s hand, “Please, state your name,”

“Ina ‘Alstram, Sangheili Ultra of the Legion of Everlasting Vigilance,” The Elite reported, bowing again. The Councilor smiled and, without looking away from the Female, conversed with the Ascetic Commander,

“Commander ‘Ardromics, am I correct in saying that you need a new Ascetic student in your Lance?” The Commander was caught off guard,

“That is correct, Excellency…” The Commander said

“Then it’s settled. Ina ‘Alstram, I hereby grant you the title of Ascetic student of the Ascetic Apocalypse Lance,” He turned to Draken Antariics, his son, “And you, Draken, are now an Ascetic Minor Elite, due to your bravery and cunning against a Brute Chieftain,” Draken bowed his head,

“I thank you, Excellency…” The Young Sangheili said. The two Elites locked eyes for a long time, until the Ascetic Commander interrupted,

“Councilor, the Task Force awaits…”

“Indeed it does, Commander. Let us make hast to join their ranks,” The Councilor said, boarding the same Phantom he had arrived in. The Honor Guards and the Priest boarded the same Phantom, while the Ascetics and the Ultra entered the other. As the Phantoms and the Pelicans started to leave the Ring’s artificial atmosphere, two more Phantoms were seen descending back towards the surface to evacuate the rest of the Separatists.

Part 02:

Chapter 12: Sanghelios

The Separatist task force exited slip-space and was welcomed by a Planet roughly the same size as the Humans’ home world, Earth. Thousands of silvery, Separatist ships orbited the Planet just past it’s red-tinted atmosphere. One of these ships, A Supercarrier, broke free from the rest of the blockade and approached the Task Force,

“Councilor, they wish to communicate,” An Elite said from the Bridge’s COM Station,

“Very well… we will humor them,” The Councilor said in a joking fashion. An Image of a Sangheili Ship Master, appeared on the view port,

“This is Ship Master, Tera ‘Coltar of the Divine Wind. State your Identity and Purpose. If you do not reply within the next Half-Unit, the entire Armada will open fire,” The Elite said in a stern voice,

“This is High Councilor, Baracuss Antairious, of the Glimmering Emerald. My Business is of my own concern, Ship Master,” Baracuss replied, “Now if you will be so kind as to arrange a Landing Zone for me and a selected few others nearby the Sanghelios Capital City, that will be very kind,” The Ship Master Bowed,

“My apologies, Councilor, we can never be too wary, long as the Prophet of Pestilence is commanding the Loyalists. I will arrange your landing at once, and I shall also request a Convoy to escort you to the Council Chamber,” The view port flashed back to the image of the Sangheilis’ home planet. The Councilor turned to his Second-in-Command, Kartal ‘Surimnee,

“Welcome Home, Brother…” He said, then walked out into the Ship’s main access tunnel, and headed towards the Hangar bay.

The Phantoms fell through Sanghelios’ atmosphere, heading towards the reserved landing zone. Once the side hatches opened, Draken leaned out and looked over his home world. It was just how it was when he had left; The Oceans were still crystal-clear, and multiple islands broke it’s surface. Up ahead, the huge spires of the Sanghelios Capital jutted out of the Horizon. He couldn’t wait to return to his home and tell his mother of his promotion to an Ascetic Minor.

“Draken, I wouldn’t stand so precariously like that,” The Commander said from within the Phantom. The “Fearless” Ascetic had a firm grip on the Phantoms Troop Clamps, “I had been in that position when I was a Major Ascetic… the Phantom was hit by a Banshee’s Fuel Rod Cannon and listed to the side. I was thrown out and, if it were not for a sea below, I would have been killed,” Draken withdrew himself from the hatch’s edge but still stood close enough to admire the Capital City ahead. They passed over the suburbs, a large ring of huts and rugged buildings that surrounded the new towers in the city’s center. The Phantom tilted towards the southeast, and began to descend towards a circular, stone Landing Pad. Surrounding it were eight Ghosts, two Type-51 Spectre Ground Assault Vehicles, and a Type-50 Shadow Heavy Ground Transport Vehicle.

Councilor Antairious landed on the stone pad softly via the Gravity Lift, followed closely by his Honor Guards and the Priest. The Second Phantom Landed after and dropped off the Ascetics and the Ultra. A Special Operations Elite in a Steel colored Assault Harness, greeted the Councilor, and his guests, with a humble bow,

“Greetings to you, Excellency. Ship Master ‘Coltar has already informed the Council of your Arrival. Please, let us escort you to them,” The Spec-Ops said,

“Great… politics…” The Councilor joked, boarding the Shadow with the Priest and the Ascetic Commander. The Other Ascetics, and the Ultra, rode on top of the Shadow, which beheld a Heavy Plasma Cannon. Half of the Honor Guards rode in the side seats of the Spectres, while the other half returned to the Phantoms and back to the Glimmering Emerald.

Chapter 13: The Council

The Convoy of Separatist vehicles, re-colored Marine Green to show the Human-Separatist alliance, sped through the city towards the central Temple. The Temple was built long after the Great Schism, and held the Council Chamber, the High Councilors’ Keeps, and a large Citadel where many Sangheili Priests meditate and pray for most of their lives. The Temple also housed the Ascetics’ training grounds, and the keeps were they eat and rest. It was a spectacular sight to behold, and only a selected few were allowed within it’s walls.

The Councilor jumped off the Shadow, and moved towards the Temple’s doors before, before the Vehicle stopped,

“Either he is in a hurry,” The Commander said as he and his Ascetics exited the vehicle, “Or he wants to shorten the meeting with the rest of the Council,” Once inside, the Ascetics and the Councilor, along with his Honor Guard escorts and his son Draken, parted ways. The rest of the Ascetics headed towards their quarters. While the Councilor, Draken, and the Honor Guards moved to the center of the Temple, and to the Council Chamber,

“Draken, there is no need for you to follow me inside the chamber. Head up to our keep, and greet your mother, Krana. I’m sure she will be pleased to see you,” Councilor Antairious spoke, placing his hand on his son’s shoulder,

“I understand, Father…” Draken bowed and headed towards the Gravity Lift. Baracuss smiled. Never had he seen a warrior keep his posture so formal, even in the company of his own family. Perhaps it was because of the Honor Guards, “Guards, I do not need your assistance any longer… Please return to Honor Guard Ultra Erbomee. I’m sure he will find you another task,” The Honor Guards obeyed and filed out of the entrance hall, leaving the Councilor alone in front of the massive Council Chamber Doors. The Councilor drew in a deep breathe, then let it out in a sigh. He hated politics, and it was times like these that he wished he were just an ordinary Ship Master again. He pushed those thoughts aside. The Council needed him. He was one of the few voices of reason amongst the two hundred Councilors; the others were the three other High Councilors, Raga ‘Fersam, Rama ‘Setum, and Zamra ‘Vorum.

He took in another breathe and opened the doors; a huge blast of Sangheili Voices rushed past him. The Minor Councilors were arguing, of course, while the High Councilors were trying to calm them. They only paused for a moment as the fourth and final High Councilor entered the Chamber, and made his way towards the frontal rise where the other High Councilors stood,

“I was wondering when you would make your entrance, Brother,” Councilor ‘Vorum said, nodding towards Antairious as he took his place between ‘Setum and ‘Fersam,

“Any clue what the Council is arguing about this time?” Baracuss asked, listening to the argumentative conversations, trying to find a subject that related to another. There was none,

“Unfortunately no… do you have any clue how to silence them?” Raga asked, “You are usually the best at performing that part,” The Councilor added, smiling a little,

“I shall try…” Baracuss said, nodding to the other High Councilors. He then walked forwards off the rise, the Minor Councilors didn’t notice him and continued their pointless arguing. It was then that Councilor Antairious activated his personal Energy Sword and yelled “Silence!” as loud as he could muster. The Chamber immediately fell silent, and Baracuss smiled back towards the other Councilors,

“They are yours, Councilors”

Chapter 14: Orientation

The Simulated Forest

The former Ultra, Ina ‘Alstram, looked over her silver Combat Harness one last time. It had fit her slender body like a glove, and she wasn’t ready to part with it. But, with great uncomfort, removed the armor and replaced it with the blue Ascetic Harness the Commander had assigned to her. Surprised at the armor’s comfort, she quickly ran through the Harness’ systems. An advanced shield generator, 150 Meter range on Radar Distance, Thermal and Night vision optical displays, and an 8x Un-armed Zoom distance.

“Incredible…” She said out loud, “If every type of Armor were of this caliber… this war would turn to our favor overnight,”

“Indeed it would,” Ina turned suddenly to see another Ascetic, the one called Thel,

“How dare you enter my personal living space without my permission! I will report you to the Commander for such-” Ina started,

“Relax, ‘Alstram,” Thel cut her off, “The Commander asked to see you,”

“That still gives you no right to-” Ina started again,

“I saw nothing…” Thel interrupted, leaving her room. Ina glared after him, and readied the last parts of the Ascetic Harness.

The Commander ducked behind a rock, dodging razor sharp spikes. The spikes ricocheted off the rock’s surface and pierced into a nearby tree. The Commander leapt over the rock, slashed a Brute in half, and took cover behind a tree, more spikes and Brute Shot grenades pounded against the bark. Ina took cover behind the tree beside him, activating her own Energy Sword.

“Nice of you to assist me, ‘Alstram…” The Commander said throwing a Plasma Grenade from behind his cover. The Grenade adhered to a Brute’s leg and exploded, killing off two other Brutes, “Or shall I refer to you as Ina?”

“You are my Commanding officer now… That is your choice, not mine,” Ina replied, peering out from behind her cover. She withdrew her head as a few heated spikes skimmed her helmet’s tusk-like protrusions.

“Indeed, I am the Commander of the Apocalypse Lance, however,” The Commander said rushing out and cutting a Brute’s legs off. Ina followed and decapitated another Brute, “Because we are Ascetics of the same Lance, we are now a Family. And we should treat each other as our own Blood Brothers and Sisters. We will Eat, Sleep, and even Die together,” The Commander rushed out again and disarmed the last Brute. Ina then stabbed the beast through it’s massive chest, killing it instantly, “Is this understood, Ina?”

“Fully, Brother…” Ina said, shaking her Commander’s hand,

“Very well. Ora, end the simulation if you please,” The Commander said looking toward the sky. The Forest scenery, and Brute carcasses, surrounding the Ascetics vanished, and a large empty room with blue pulsating lights, appeared in it’s place,

“Simulation Terminated, Commander,” Ora spoke through the COM Systems, “Also… Honor Guard Ultra, Uasp Erbomee, wishes to speak with you,”

“Well then, I shouldn’t keep the Ultra waiting…”

Chapter 15: Reunion

As Draken stepped out of the Gravity Lift, his mother’s slender, yet strong arms embraced him in their grip. He, reluctantly, returned the gesture and relaxed for the first time since he returned to Sanghelios,

“I am pleased to see you again, Mother…” He said as Krana released him,

“As am I to see you again, Draken,” She said, leading him into the Keep. The Elite Home had every type of Sangheili furniture imaginable. Draken took his place in his favorite seat, and his mother sat down in her own place,

“I am happy to say that I have been promoted to the rank of Minor Ascetic,” Draken said, removing his helmet. He felt odd without it; he felt vulnerable and exposed. With his Ascetic armor on he felt confidant… even invincible, but with one piece of it missing he was but a normal soldier,

“I am pleased to hear that, Draken! So you need not take the Exams?” Krana asked, referring to the Ascetic Exams that most Ascetic Students must partake in the become part of normal Ascetic ranks. During the Exams, Ascetic students go through three tests, each one pushing their Strength, Speed, Reflexes, and Stamina to their limits,

“That is unknown at this point, but we shall find out once the Council meeting comes to an end. Father will bring up the subject, although, seeing how the Council tends to disagree most of the time, it seams unlikely that they will break from tradition,” Draken answered,

“Yes indeed… but your Father has a way of… persuading… others to change their minds,” Krana replied. A Servant in gray and brown robes entered the room carrying a large tray of nutriments, and offered some to both Draken and Krana. They politely refused, and the Servant walked passed them and set the dish on a Lectern,

“As I left off, Father is offering my promotion to the Council because I-” He stopped, and looked back towards the Servant, whose back was towards them. He quickly turned back to his mother, “Did that Servant have an amulet hanging from his neck?” Krana was caught off-guard a little,

“I think so, but wh-” She started

“That’s what I thought!” Draken interrupted. He threw himself to the floor and dragged his mother down with him. A barrage of red plasma bolts filled the room with crimson light. The Servant had drawn twin, Jiralhanae Variant, Type-25 Plasma Rifles; Loyalist weapons that had been considered obsolete after the Great Schism. It was obvious to Draken now that the “Servant” was really one of the Ēna Kātiņas; a faction of Mercenary Sangheili that still sided with the Covenant Loyalists. The Brute Plasma Rifles gave it away; They were the Kātiņas’ weapons of choice, and due to the weapon’s higher rate of fire and sheer destruction, he could see why.

Just before Draken leapt out from his cover to confront the traitorous Elite, the door to the Keep opened, and a Sangheili Honor Guard Ultra rushed into the room. The Elite impaled the Kātiņa with an Energy Stave, killing the first threat; Another Kātiņa came from the next room, this one in it’s signature black, hooded, robes, drew a Spike Rifle, and fired upon the Honor Guardsman. Draken leapt out, and drew his sword; he performed an underhand swing to the Kātiņas’ outstretched hand, twisted himself around, and brought the sword down in an inside-to-out swing to the enemy’s waist.

The quick, yet smooth, attack sliced off the Kātiņas’ weapon hand, and severed it’s body in two; Draken called the move “Disarm and Destroy”, and it had been taught to him by his Father. A third Kātiņa suddenly entered the room with another Spiker, but Krana drew her Plasma Pistol sidearm and shot the traitor squarely in the head. The Kātiņa dropped to his knees, and the well-trained Female shot it again in the chest, finishing the battle.

“An excellent shot, Noble ‘Ralsamee…” The Honor Guard Ultra complimented, bowing his head, “If I may say,”

“I accept your compliment, Uasp,” Krana said, smiling, “And please… call me Krana, old friend”

“You did well yourself, Guardsman Erbomee…” Draken said, kicking the first Kātiņa,

“Thank you, Draken. That means a lot coming from an Ascetic…” Uasp said, bowing again, “I had just exited the Gravity Lift and I heard the wine of Plasma weapon fire coming from within the Keep. I shall post a pair of my best Honor Guards near the entrance at once,” The Ultra said, looking towards the Keep Entrance, then back to Krana, “That is, of course, if her excellency wishes it…”

“That is fine, Uasp… but please do tell what was your purpose when you came here?” Krana questioned. Uasp looked toward Draken,

“I wished to spar with Draken before he makes leave on another mission. His Ascetic Commander had told me he was visiting with you,” Uasp said towards Krana, “I have sparred with High Council-” He stopped himself, looking towards Krana, “With Baracuss…” He said, as if questioning. Krana nodded her approval, and Uasp continued, “Several times, and each one ended quickly and in his victory,” He said, a little embarrassed, “He says that both of you have the same skill level, and I wish to put that assumption to the test,” Draken smiled,

“Very well, Uasp, I accept your challenge,” He looked back to his mother, “But not at this moment. I shall come to you once I am prepared,” The Guardsman nodded,

“Excellent. I shall be in the Guardsman Keep once you are ready. Krana, always a pleasure,” He said, bowing to Draken’s mother,

“Indeed, Uasp, it is. Fell free to visit at any time,” She returned the gesture. Uasp walked back to the Gravity Lift and descended toward the ground floor.

Chapter 16: Unfortunate News and Old Friends

Ultra Grunt, Baw Wee

High Councilor Antairious headed towards the Gravity Lift that would take him up to his Keep, his Red-Orange eyes filled with anger. The Lift reached the ground floor and dropped off Honor Guard Ultra, Uasp Erbomee. The Guardsman was startled, he didn’t expect the Council Meeting to end so quickly.

“Councilor!” Uasp said bowing deeply,

“There is no need for humility, Uasp…” The Councilor said in a stern voice. The Guardsman instantly straitened himself, realizing the Councilor was in a foul mood,

“How went the Meeting, Councilor?” Uasp asked,

“The meeting is not over… but I offered my suggestions,” Baracuss said, “And offered my complaints…” he added under his breath, as he entered the Gravity Lift. Once he reached the Keep atop the spire, he was met by a trio of Grunts. They were hauling three robbed Elites out of his home, one of which had been sliced in half. No doubt Draken’s handy work. The Grunts bowed so low that one of them almost fell over,

“Hiya, Excellency. No mind us. Just doin’ a job!” One of the Grunts barked. The Councilor moved around them,

“Continue on…” He said entering his home. Two more Grunts were moving a new seat in place, while another trio moved past the Councilor carrying Krana’s favorite seat. The Furnishing was Plasma-Scorched and still sizzling. In the corner of the room, observing the Grunt’s efficiency, was his Family,

“I’m almost afraid to ask what happened here…” He said, removing his elaborate headdress, and breathing a sigh of relief. He had been wearing the twenty-pound headdress for almost 15 Units, and his neck ached because of it, “…Almost,” He continued. Krana explained what had happened, while Draken took his Father’s headdress, and told of his upcoming spar with Honor Guardsman Erbomee.

“I am to meet him at the Guardsman Keep once I am ready,” Draken finished,

“Very interesting…” The Councilor said, rubbing his neck, “So I suppose that is your ‘Good News’” He stated the Human saying, “Well I have some ‘Bad News’. Draken… you still have to be put through the Ascetic Exams,”

“What? That’s absurd!” Krana exclaimed, “Draken performed a task, by himself, that the rest of his Lance could not do, combined!”

“That was the Council’s final decision on that particular matter…” Baracuss said, “I left the Chamber soon after to avoid unnecessary outbursts,” He clenched his fists. An Ultra Grunt entered the room and tugged at the Councilor’s robe. Draken smiled as soon as he recognized the Unggoy,

“Hiya, Draken!” Baw Wee said. Baw Wee was one of the most well educated Grunts in the Separatist ranks. He was an Ultra Grunt, and had looked after Draken while his Mother and Father had been partaking in Council affairs. He was also the Record Keeper for Baracuss’ Task Force, Approaching Salvation,

“Good to see you again, Baw Wee,” Draken said, “How goes my Father’s adventures?”

“Well, Draken, very well! How goes being an Ascetic?” Baw Wee asked, his voice a little deeper than other Grunts,

“It had been going well until this latest arbitrary decision by our unruly Council members…” Baracuss answered for Draken,

“What this time?” Baw Wee asked,

“Draken killed a Brute Chieftain that his other Ascetic Members were having… trouble… with,” Krana said, looking for the right words, “Such skill and bravery would automatically lead to a promotion for any other warrior, but…”

“But, The Council has decided to go along with tradition, and make Draken endure in the Ascetic Exams…” Baracuss finished,

“That Dumb…” Baw Wee said after a while, still not quite understanding the problem, “But it was only a Chieftain right? I mean I killed one of those before, and I didn’t really get any thing from it. Everyone kills Chieftains!”

“It wasn’t an ordinary Cheiftain… It was the latest Chieftain of the Jiralhanae! The last one, Tartarus, had been killed by the Arbiter, Thel ‘Vadam, A great many cycles ago during the Great Schism,” Baracuss said, flopping down in his favorite seat,

“Really?” Baw Wee exclaimed, “Good work, Buddy!” the Grunt said to Draken,

“Thank you, Baw Wee… Now if you will all excuse me,” Draken said, retrieving his helmet, “I have a Sparring match to attend to…”

Chapter 17: Duel

Draken grasped the training sword tightly in his hand, and circled the Training room opposite the Honor Guard Ultra. It felt too different from his own customized Sword, but he knew that fighting with their real weapons would be too dangerous. The training swords they were holding delivered a shock when it came in contact, but it wasn’t lethal.

“Are you prepared, Draken?” Uasp asked. Draken swung his sword around one last time to get used to it’s handling,

“I’m ready, Uasp…” He said confidently. Uasp set the simulator to change the environment every few minuets, and started. The Chamber suddenly turned from the shining silver room, into a large Icy landscape. Draken was reminded of his last mission, and his senses instantly sharpened.

Uasp was the first to attack, slashing towards the young Ascetic’s head, but Draken was quick on his feet. He dodged and rolled out of the way, slashing at Uasp’s feet. Uasp jumped over the blade, span around, and swung at Draken again. Draken was ready this time; he brought his sword up to meet Uasp’s. The Blades clashed, The Elites’ shields flared, and they both jumped back from one another. The two warriors stood there waiting for the next attack,

“You are an excellent swordsman, Draken…” Uasp said, moving into a different, more comfortable, stance,

“As are you, Uasp… this may take a while…” Draken said, adjusting his sword’s angle. The environment suddenly changed, and took the form of a Bamboo forest from the Humans’ home world, Earth. A Multitude of the gigantic plants separated the two warriors, who exhaled and relaxed for a moment. Draken went back to fighting, slashing through the fauna like it was nothing! Uasp barely had time to react, ducking just before the blade sliced past his head. It had gotten so close that the Honor Guard’s shield dropped to three-fourths it’s power. What made matters worse, was that the Ascetic had re-angled the blade so that it was coming down towards his shoulder!

“Damn!” Uasp said, quickly rolling out of the way, and getting back to his feet. He wasn’t balanced though, and Draken knew it! The Ascetic kicked the Honor Guard’s feet out from under him, and Uasp landed on his back. Draken brought his sword down on Uasp again, but the Honor Guard stopped and held the attack with his sword. The static from the connected energy blades ate away at the Sangheilis’ shields. Uasp brought his foot up and kicked Draken in the Shoulder, knocking him away long enough to gain his footing again.

Uasp drew a second training sword, and started swinging at the Young Ascetic with both of his weapons. Draken however, had been taught how to fight a dual bladed opponent, and blocked, dodged, and deflected Uasp’s attacks easily. Uasp stabbed at Draken with both swords at once, but Draken twisted around the Attack, and Uasp, and elbowed the Honor Guard in the back. Uasp ducked, rolled, and got back on his feet just before Draken threw another attack.

The dual went on for several units, and both warriors were extremely tired, but the fight was still just as intense. Draken had gotten off many close calls on Uasp, but thanks to Uasp’s superior strength, the Honor Guard kept Draken on his toes. But where Draken lacked in strength, he made up for in shear speed and agility. Many a time Draken had flipped over the Ultra’s head and threatened to slice his back. The environments on the simulator had repeated themselves multiple times, so the Warriors were no longer surprised at each other’s tactics,

“Uasp… we are too evenly matched…” Draken said, between inhales, “Lets call it a draw…” He lowered his guard. Uasp decided that he was right, and withdrew both his swords. Draken suddenly leapt forward, kicked Uasp over, and stabbed the Honor Guard with his still activated sword. Uasp felt the shock surge through him, and knew that the Ascetic had tricked him,

“That was a foul tactic, Draken…” Uasp said, as the Ascetic helped him up, “Who taught you that?”

“My Father did,” Draken said plainly, “He taught me a saying as well: When Fighting a losing battle…” He paused and looked at the Honor Guard, “Cheat,”

“And that is a tactic worthy of dishonor, Draken…” Came a voice from the, now dormant, Training Room’s entrance. Two Ascetic Commanders walked in, one of which was Draken’s own Commander, Mesa ‘Ardromics. The other was the Commander of the Ascetic Shadow Lance, Oro ‘Narvumics.

“Forgive me Commanders-” Draken said. Commander ‘Ardromics simply raised his hand to interrupt the Ascetic,

“As I was saying… That is a tactic worthy of dishonor, Draken… Unless you use it as a last resort,” ‘Ardromics said, “Dismissed Draken,” Draken bowed and exited the Training room, “Honor Guard Ultra, if you will please, set the same options as your battle for ours,”

“Yes Excellency,” Uasp said, complying to the Commander’s wishes, then left the room with a bow,

“That is quite an Ascetic you have there, Mesa… have you ever thought about transferring him to another Lance?” The other Commander said, jokingly,

“You wish, Oro… that is one of my best warriors. I wouldn’t transfer him, even if it meant ending the war,” Mesa replied,

“Are you sure, Mesa?”

“…… Yes… I’m sure,”

Chapter 18: A Stolen Symbol of Hope

Baw Wee and Baracuss walked down the temple's corridor, passing Honor Guards and Councilors alike. The High Councilor was now is his B24-X Class Sangheili Armor, an upgraded combat harness designed by Vale 'Razumee,

"Um... Where we going?" Baw Wee finnaly asked, his voice cracking a little,

"The Ascetic's Keep. I wish to see how my son fared against Uasp," The Councilor said, matter-of-factly, "And to give the Apocalypes Lance their new assignment,"

"Oh... ok then!" Baw Wee said, waddling after the Sangheili. When they passed the Hologram Combat Arena, two Ascetics in Golden armor exited and bowed humbly to the Separatist leader, and nodded to his Unggoy companion,

"Ah good, Commander 'Ardromics, just the soldier I was searching for," Baracuss said, noticing the Crimson detail on the Commander's armor,

"You wished to see me, Councilor?" The Commander asked. His fellow Ascetic gave a farewell bow and headed back towards his own Lances' keep

"Indeed, Mesa, you and your Ascetics," The Counilor said, nodding to Commander 'Narvum, then continuing on towards Mesa's Lance,

"Do you have another mission for us, Councilor?" The Commander asked, keeping pace with Antairious. Baw Wee was starting to fall behind.

"Indeed I do, but I wish to report it to your Lance myself. And please, old friend, call me Baracuss," The Councilor said, pausing to let the Unggoy catch up,

"With all due respect, Excellency... I do not feel comfortable addressing a superior as an equal..." The Commander said, slowing down for the Ultra Grunt,

"Then do not think of me as a superior, Mesa... and address me as a friend," The Councilor said, rather abruptly. They did not speak again until they had entered the Ascetics' Keep. Within, the Apocalypes Lance were at ease; Thel and Cairo were sparing, Ora was polishing the hilt of his Customized Energy Sword, the New student, Ina, was reading a Holo-script containing news of Separatist and UNSC combating Loyalist forces near the Tala System, and Draken was meditating.

Once the Councilor entered the keep however every Ascetic got to their feet and bowed deeply,

"As you were, Ascetics. I have a new mission for you," The Councilor ordered, "As you all know, the damnable Prophet of Pestilence escaped our grasp during your last mission, due to his Drone Deffenders, and the crippled Legion that awaited outside the relic," Ina lowered her head in shame as Baracuss continued, "I do not blame his escape on anyone but myself. However, your previous mission to capture the Loyalist Leader did end in failure... but luckly a UNSC Stealth ship followed the Prophet to the Loyalist controled planet of Arcadia," The Councilor held up a Holo-Image of the planet and it's surface. The Ascetics were surprised to see Humanesque building designs,

"Councilor, was this planet once under Human possession?" Thel questioned,

"You have a sharp mind, Ascetic. Indeed, Arcadia had once been a human 'Vacation Resort' as they put it, but it had been seized by the Covenant soon after the start of the Covenant-Human War," The Councilor replaced the image, "As before, your mission is to capture Pestilence and bring him before the High Council, My task force will escort you to your destination, and you, Commander, may seize control of any Ground forces I can offer," All the Ascetics stood and placed their fists upon their chests, saluting the Councilor's dissision,

"Councilor, are the Separatists going to re-take Arcadia?" Baw Wee piped up,

"Indeed, The Separatists and the UNSC together. Their Military Leader has offered to assist the assault to test his 'Secret Weapons' as he put it,"

"The UNSC will have Arcadia back before these so-called weapons are delivered, Councilor! We shall not fail again!" The Commander said,

"Excellent! Let us go forth and bring Pestilence to his Knees!" Draken yelled drawing his sword and holding it above his head. The other Ascetics followed suit and the group exited the Keep, only to be greeted with Honor Guard Ultra 'Erbomee. The Guardsman had a troubled look upon his face,

"Councilor... I have terrible news!"

The Ageing Sangheili placed the Silvery-Gold helmet upon his head. The Protective head-piece curved down over his nostrils and between his drooping, razor-toothed mandibles. The legendary armor had been a symbol of hope for the Heretic Separatists who now side with the Unclean Humans. Now he would turn it to something for every Heretic to fear! As another Sangheili in black robes finnished putting the rest of the armor in place, the dark-hearted Elite moved out onto a crumbling balcony, and raised his arms so that his dark-hooded followers could see their glorious leader,

"Fellow brothers and sisters of the Ēna Kātiņas! No longer will an Arbiter be presented with this anchient and majestic armor, long as the Heretics trouble the Prophet's grand design! From now on... There is no Arbiter! There is only the Provocator!" The Sangheili yelled over the roar of the rest of the Kātiņas, "I, Makdan 'Talek, will strike fear into those who have betrayed the Prophets' will!" 'Talek yelled, pointing towards the Sanghelios Capital and the Central Temple.

After the Kātiņas' Leader was finnished addressing his "Troops" he imidiantly ripped the armor's helmet from his head and threw it to the ground. He then grabbed his assistant by the throat and brought the youger Sangheili closer,

"Re-make it... in my image!"

Chapter 19: Re-take Arcadia!

Darius and Shelly

The Separatist Task Force exited Slip-space, followed closely by a UNSC Fleet, and imidiantly engaged with a large Loyalist blockade around Arcadia.

"Kartal, engage Active Camouflage! Lets sneak past these bastards and drop our Ground Troops!" Baracuss ordered as the rest of his ships launched a volly of Plasma Torpedoes into oncoming Loyalist ships. The Plasma boiled their sheilds away, and the UNSC ships launched a volly of their own; Archer Missiles, streaked through the darkness of space and impacted on the already weaked blockade. The Glimmering Emerald maneuvered out of the way of the smaller UNSC ships and vannished from sight.

The UNSC Jackhammer fired it's Magnetic Accelerator Cannon (MAC), and the Loyalist Frigate before them was gutted from port to starboard. The Marathon-class Cruiser followed up with a Salvo of Archer Missiles, and the Frigate lit up the darkness of space with a flash of purple and blue.

"Enemy ship destroid Captain! Another contact heading our way on a collision course," The Ship's navigation officer reported,

"Get as close to Arcadia as you can and drop off our 'package', then engage enemy ships on sight!" The Captain ordered,

"Aye sir!"

"Councilor, we are in position above Arcadia," Kartal reported as the Emerald came into orbit around the planet,

"Excellent work, Kartal. Inform the Ascetic Commander that that we are prepared to drop them,"

"At once, excellency!"

The Emerald released a cluster of Orbital Insertion Pods into Arcadia's atmosphere, then imidiantly returned to the battle. As the pods hurtled through air-pockets the occupants were jostled around, but the hardened Ascetics had become used to such conditions and were relaxed within the pod's shinning, marine-green alloy,

"Commander, we have confirmed reports of Type-47 Ultra Heavy Assault Platforms scattered about the Planet's surface, but the highest concentration is located around the Planet's capital city, Pirth City, that area is the most likely location of the Prophet," Councilor Antairious' voice sounded through the Commander's comm-system. In response with the Councilor's information, a beacon jumped on the Commander's HUD marking the location of the city,

"Understood, Excellency!" The Commander said over the roar of the pod's dessent, "Consider the bastard captured!"

The Pelicans pulled up 300 kilometers above the ground and sped towards Pirth City, dessending at a steady rate as it did so. Attached to one of the Pelican's tail-mounted magnetic clamps was a M831 Troop Trasport Warthog, on the other; a SP42 Anti-Vehicle and -Fortification vehicle, commonly refered to as the Cobra. When the Cobra stabilizes itself it's twin M66 Gauss Cannons retract and a larger, much more destructive cannon is reveiled. But even though the Cobra can mean death to any Loyalist Scarab, this wasn't the UNSC's "Secret Weapon" that the Fleet Admiral had mentioned to the Separatist Leaders. No, the real secret weapons were the Humans within the Pelicans' troop bays. As the Pelicans came to the altitude of 20,000 feet the troop doors opened revealing five large Humans in full-body armor. Each of the humans, however, had been trained from the age of 6, genetically augmented, and fitted with a mixture of MJOLNIR Mark IV, V, and VI armor variations. These humans are know as Spartan IVs.

In the first Pelican, Two Spartans were standing close to the edge of the Troop Hatch, holding onto the sides of the Pelican as it screamed over the Planet below, while a third was seated inside the troop hatch readying her equipment,

"Rose you had plenty of time to prepare before we exited the Jackhammer's hanger bay," Jason said. Jason-F106 was the leader of the Spartan Team, Team Zeta, and it's Close-Combat expert. On his hips were two M7 Caseless Submachine Guns, or SMGs as some call them. On his back was an M90 Mk I Close Assault Weapon System, a Pump-Action Combat Shotgun that has a range of 10 feet. Attached to his breastplate was a Combat Knife.

"Yeah, Rose! If you love the gun so much why don't you go sleep with it?" Daniel joked. Daniel-F237 was by far the least serious Spartan IV out of all 600 canidates, but Jason wouldn't transfer him if his life depended on it, mainly because he was the best Driver and Pilot out of the surviving 110 Spartan IVs, but also because he was his teams "Comic Relief". Daniel also had an M7 on his right hip, and had an MA2B Assault Rifle slung on his back.

"Daniel I swear! One more crack out of you and I'll push you out of the Pelican!" Rose yelled. Rose-F108 was Daniel's opposite. She took everything seriously and had a very poor sence of humor. She was the team's Sniper and Long Range weapon specialist, and was the best Sniper of the Spartan IVs. On her hip she had an M7S Suppressed Sub Machine Gun, an SMG fitted with a silencer. In her hands was a SRS99C-S2 AM Sniper Rifle, a high-caliber weapon with a 10x Night Vission Scope, fireing 14.5x114mm Armor Piercing, Fin Stabilized, Discarding Sabot rounds. It was one of the most accurate Sniper Rifles the UNSC created, with a hit ratio of 97.3%. Altho that might as well be 110% with Rose on the job.

"Cut it out you two," Jason ordered,

"I still don't see why I had to ride in the same Pelican as Daniel..." Rose complained, placing the sniper on her back,

"It's because Jason likes watching us fight," Daniel joked,

"The reason is because there was no other room in the other Pelican, now the both of you stop yelling at eachother like an old married couple!" Jason explained, but he knew that Daniel hadn't been too far off with his joke, "Darius, Aaron, how are you two holding up?" Jason spoke into his Comm-Link,

"All good on our end, Chief! Why? Is Rose and Dan arguing again?" Darius asked. Darius was Zeta Team's Heavy Weapons and Explosives expert. He was also one of the largest Spartan IVs. Darius always carries a detached AIE-486H Heavy Machine Gun, he usually refers to it as "Shelly". Around his waist was a ring of M9 High-Explosive Dual-Purpose Grenades, Frag-Grenades, and on his hips were two M6C Magnum Sidearms. Slung over his shoulder was a duffel-bag filled with Lotus Anti-Tank Mines, TR/9 Antipersonnel Mines, and an Type 14 Magnetic/Anti-Tank Mine, and on his back was a Galilean Nonlinear Rifle, a.k.a. the Spartan Laser.

"Again? They're always arguing!" Aaron said, matter-of-factly. Aaron was the teams Infiltration and Sabotage expert. Darius had once said that he was a "Sneaky Bastard" during a training op. Jason agreed with him. Aaron was like a ninja in Spartan armor, a deadly combination for sure. On Aaron's back hung a BR55HB SR Battle Rifle, and in his hand he held onto his favorite weapon: an M6D Magnum Sidearm,

"Yeah, you're right about that, but it's only because Rose is such a stick in the mud," Darius said, resting the barrels of his machine gun on his shoulder. Aaron stared at all the equipment Darius had on,

"You sure you don't want me to carry anything?" Aaron asked, reaching for the Duffel-bag filled with landmines. Darius moved away from his reach,

"No, I'm good," He said, adjusting the sack on his shoulder. Jason checked his Tactical Heads up Display, and saw each of his teammate's weapons, equipment, shield and armor integrety, and health monitors,

"Damn it, Darius. I told you to pack light," Jason said, noticing how much his Heavy Weapons expert was carrying,

"With all due respect sir, this is light," Jason smiled a little, and thought of what Darius called "heavy". He shook his head, and looked back at Rose,

"You done yet?" He asked. In response, Rose stood, placed her sniper rifle on her back, and nodded. The whole Pelican suddenly shook at the sound of explosions,

"Shit! Banshees on approach!" Daniel yelled as the low altitude fighters screamed towards the Pelicans. The Pelican shook again as a Feul Rod Blast struck it's left engine. Rose heard the pilot yell out in pain, and in response the entire dropship tilted towards the surface,

"Daniel! Flight Controls!" Jason ordered. Daniel burst into the cockpit, removed the Marine's corpse from the Pilot seat, and took his place behind the controls,

"I can keep her airborne for a few more minuets, but after that this bird is touching down... and hard!" Daniel yelled back to Jason,

"You still have an Armor Integrety meter for the Cobra?" Jason questioned, holding onto the side of the troop hatch as the Pelican descended towards the rocky terrain below,

"Affermative... why?" Daniel asked. Jason hit the release switch for the Vehicle clamps, and watched the Cobra fall towards Arcadia's surface, "What did you do that for?!"

"Firstly, to lighten the load, and buy you more time to level this thing out. Second, the Cobra can survive a drop like that, we'll find it later. Now stop worrying about that vehicle, and start worrying about the one you're driving now!" Jason ordered. He switched to TEAMCOM and tried to contact Darius and Aaron. No response.

Rose drew her sniper, took aim, and shot one of the Banshees' thruster pods. The Loyalist air vehicle was thrown into a mad spiral, and divebombed towards the ground. Rose entered a fresh magazine into her weapon, and did the same to the second Banshee,

"Alright, Daniel, it's up to you now!" She yelled towards the cockpit.

The Drop-pods crashed into the earth in the midst of a Loyalist outpost. The Ascetic imidiantly burst from the cramped space and took out what few Brutes and Grunts were posted there.

"Well... it was nice of them to give us a little warmup... however brief it was," Thel taunted, relacing his Plasma rifle on his Hip,

"Let us not get too overconfident, Ascetics... remember that there are a multitude of Scarabs on patrol. We should be cautious," Commander Mesa warned, starting towards the NAV Point on his HUD. A Pelican dropship sudenly roared overhead, it's port-side engine ablaze, "Ascetics, we have a secondary objective..."

Chapter 20: Spartans and Ascetics

"Daniel, get back here!" Jason ordered as the Pelican roared over a large sea below. Daniel locked the Pelican's controls, grabbed the Marine's M6D sidearm and attached it to his hip, and rushed back to the troop bay. Jason and Rose were checking their MJOLNIR armor's oxygen levels,

"Um... Is there something I should know about?" Daniel asked, briefly checking his own,

"Didn't you always like the underwater combat scenarios, back during training?" Jason asked, drawing his M7s and moving towards the troop bay hatch,

"Yes... why?" Daniel questioned, drawing his MA2B,

"Well... this is where that training pays off," Jason said, looking down towards the gleaming water below,

"If you think I'm jumping, then you must have hit your head when the Banshees decided to use us a target practice! We're still a half a kilometer above sea level!"

"Daniel, It's either jump into the sea below, or die in a pelican crash. It's your choice," Jason replied,

"No offence, sir, but you've lost it!" Daniel said, gripping his Assault Rifle tightly,

"Oh for the love of-" Rose complained. She suddenly shoved Daniel out of the troop bay! Jason nodded towards Rose, "I warned him that I'd push him out of the pelican..." She said, just before leaping out herself. Jason followed after,

"This is going to be one hell of a day..." he thought.

Draken leapt over a boulder, landed on a Jackal, crushing it's bird-like head under his foot, and opened fire on a small group of grunts with his twin Plasma Rifles. He turned to see a Brute Captain bearing down on him with it's Spike Rifle. The Brute, however, was the one to get impaled, as Cairo plunged his Energy Sword through the bastard's heart. Nearby, another Brute was decapitated by a bolt of purple energy, fired from Thel's Beam Rifle,

"What pathetic skill!" Thel taunted, killing another Brute,

More to come...