Post-M6 Covenant Intermission: The Warded Sect

[Faclan]

SSA - Yanme'e Swarm (Survivors)
Explanations and reinforcements.

(Drinker, Ultra, and flyer) (So just the one with Labus still at large)
The Ultra looked up as an robotic alert message played out as one of her swarm fast approached. But she mostly ignore it as the chittering and screeching of one of her Attaché's was now understandable to her, but just white noise to the guards. It was during the quick explanation of the situation that one of her remaining soldiers arrived too. Seems that many of the sect were being attacked by non-sect troops and they suspected assassins for some reason. The Ultra was understandably not happy about learning this new info and quickly formulated a plan, all of this taking a minute if that because of their very fast communication, the guards likely very annoyed by all the noise. But these masked and numerous killers were a threat to the city ad by extension the Nest and the Queen, so action needed to be taken.

It was decided that the soldier and Ultra would fly to the bar to assist the dirty apes while the Attaché' would fly up and try to alert the Holy Sangheili of the killers in the city, and after that alert the Nest so the wingless drones could mobilize to defend in case the killers dared tried to attack the queen. With a final whistle they took to the sky; Ultra and soldier flying off toward the city as the Attaché' flew right up toward the two guards on the balcony, hands held up as she flew and tried to call out to them.

"Sires! Sires! Danger in City! Assassin attack Sangheili and Jiralhanae, city at risk! Hive at risk!"


Kael Gel - T'vaoan Champion, on High Charity
Possible sneaky plans?

As the Sangheili talked back and fourth Kael busied herself with checking that her light wrist blade and Needle pistol were still working well before sheathing the former and holstering the latter again before starting to look around. They were passing through a market district currently, and she could smell the distinct smell of Yanme'e around. And soon enough their chitters and quiet whistles of their wings reached them as well as with a quick look up it what looked like twenty of them started to descend upon the market. Kael couldn't help but shudder a tiny bit at the sight of them swooping down to do whatever it was they were going to do. But Sorsa finally ducked into an alleyway and Kael followed suit right behind Llau until they arrived at what seemed to be a little stash for the Sangheili.

Glancing around at all the armor and equipment near-by Kael frowned a little and nodded. "All of my equipment is elsewhere, I'm aware I'm a new addition to your plan and possibly a third sail to it but I'm still willing to assist. Do you wish me to approach the base with Llau as I am now or take the time to go and get my Champion armor and other weapons?" She hummed a little and glanced down at her long sleeved shirt, belt, comfortable pants, and gave her feet talons a little wriggle. "Perhaps my 'civilian' appearance can work? I doubt the Sangheili will know who I am and I could easily get a weapon from a soldier in the base if needed..." She said, learning against the wall in the basement.

[Llau]

Llau 'Medomai
Markets, High Charity


She followed him into the alleyway, glancing around as well, and then went down into the basement. Looking around, she headed over to the other case he told her about, and opened it. She stared at the standard-issued Spec Ops armor while she listened to his plan.

"Infiltrate the base, while you go alone to find General 'Laktasee. I will cut the power to his room so you can have a nice discussion with him, and then Kael and I will keep an escape route open as a precaution." She repeated, and then as she started to put on the Spec-Ops armor, she quietly glanced over at him with slightly wide eyes that were filled with concern for her old friend.

"Sorsa," she asked with a slight hesitation in her voice, "Are you sure you wish to go alone? Perhaps I should go with you or I go alone and speak with 'Laktasee instead - " She stopped, sighing, and then chuckled a little. "Forgive me, I'm just worried someone will notice who you are before you even make it to his quarters." She stared at him for a moment longer before quickly looking away to finish strapping on the armor. "I shouldn't worry about you...I should be confident in your skills as a warrior." She gave him another quick glance, before gripping her energy sword in hand to check it as she activated it for a few moments, and then turned it off to secure it on her person.

'Medomai then whispered, "My apologies, Sorsa."

She then activated her active camouflage to test it, and flickered invisible for a minute before deactivating it to check her armor a few more times. She soon looked over at Kael, and answered her question, "I think we'll draw less attention if you went as you are, Kael. Though...once we're inside, I'll be activating my camouflage to head over to cut the power to the General's quarters for Sorsa. During that time, you can see about looking for a way for him to escape, and then I will meet up with you after I cut the power off."

[Kart]

Minor Phran 'Amasee
Market District, High Charity

The Covenant Empire was vast, and vast empires have a tendency to accrue wealth and exotic trade. Phran admired the strange textiles form Palamok, woven of arachnoid silk, the bone statues and pottery from Templar's Rest, the fine steel from the 'Xirsas state of Sanghelios. He was perusing the latter when a chime rang in his earpiece, pulling him from his browsing.

There is no joy that lasts forever. Phran reflected, the scrap of scripture floating in his head as he received the automated message from the base. The text marched across his HUD, informing him that all Minors of his lance were to report for armor and equipment inspection. He gave the markets one last forlorn look, before dutifully walking off down the walkways toward the base.

He paused, and thought; the inspections won't take too long, and are almost always perfunctory. Surely I have a few moments before I must go. Thus rationalizing, he turned back to inspect the 'Xirsas' merchant's goods, losing himself in the wonder of clever craftsmanship and whimsical design.

Perhaps I'll make a purchase. A knife, perhaps. He marveled over a long thin stiletto. He had sworn off material possessions, but surely a knife would be a practical purchase? It would certainly be useful in the war. But if he was going for practicality, maybe he should look to see what the most useful knife would be, not the most beautiful...after all, he did have time to spare.

It was another hour before he would make it to the base.

[Spartan 999]

Sorsa 'Xirsasai
Edge of the Markets, High Charity

Sorsa nodded when Llau repeated the plan back to him as he donned the stolen armor. He mentally sighed when she started having misgivings, particularly on what he would do.

“That's why I chose this particular Ultra helmet: it conceals my face.” The Zealot showed said helmet to Llau. “And while my size is unusual, it is hardly unique.” He shook his head at her apology. “It is always wise to question plans instead of blindly following them. That being said, I have far more experience and skill than 'Laktasee, so even if it comes down to a fight, he will lose.”

He turned his attention to Kael next when she brought up her role. “There may be an area for off-duty Kig-Yar to socialize in the base...I doubt you would look out of place there. Or you could lurk outside one of the base's exits and get a distraction ready.” A sly look crossed his face. “Ooh...if you can get a distraction to somehow be activated remotely, and then see if you can hire a few of the Kig-Yars within the base to assist in creating chaos and/or clearing a path for me, that would be even better. And I will probably be able to pay you back afterwards.” He added, remembering how stingy most Kig-Yar were with their money.

[Faclan]

Kael Gel - T'vaoan Champion, on High Charity
I like this plan.

Kael hummed a bit at Llaus plan before Sorsa spoke up again with what she could possibly pull off in that base. That seemed a lot her style as she smirked with her beak face and nodded. "Nice, I'm sure I can get the Kigs there do make a distraction, either with a fight, some theft, or making them listen to me to and do it for me. So much possibility. But I can get you a distraction if I can get there for sure. Escape route will be a bit more tricky unless I can get the gate guards to leave their post before of the distraction, but I'll keep in contact as to what options are available as you two do what needs to be done. It may be helpful if the bases Kig-Yar recognize me, get them to listen, but I'll have to see when we arrive."

Moving over to the boxes of weapons Kael rooted around until she pulled out a spare Sangheili ultra helmet, arm guards, and a comms unit before starting to place them in a duffle bag and hoisting it over her back diagonally with the strap across her long sleeved shirt chest. Turning around to face the two Sangheili she nodded and went back to leaning against the wall near the door though she now had to do so sideways with one foot cross over the other with her shoulder resting against the wall. "Bargaining chips and payment for those Kigs, you would be surprised how much Sangheili armor goes for on our black markets. So individuals can tell tales of the Sangheili they killed for the armor. Sort of like I did with the corrupt general for my Needle pistol." She smiled at the memory as she waited for her comrades in murder were ready.

[Llau]

Llau 'Medomai
Edge of Markets, High Charity

'Medomai glanced at the Ultra helmet that would hide 'Xirsasai's face, and nodded quietly, and then nodded again when he assured her he has far more experience and skill than the general they were going after. "Good." She placed a Spec Ops helmet over her head, and gazed over at Kael to listen to her idea.

She chuckled lightly. "Distractions, thefts, civil unrest...what more could a T'vaoan and the Kig-Yar ask, hmm?" She then added, while she continued speaking to Kael, "If you aren't able to find an escape route, do not worry about it, as it would give me something else to do, other than turning off the power."

She returned her attention to 'Xirsasai. "Sorsa, ready to go? I am eager to get this over with, and end those fools who wish you and the others of the Sect dead." She paused, looking like she was going to add something, but hesitated. She sighed, taking a step closer to him and whispered, "As for if you did anything heretical...I do not believe you or the others did, and the others judged too quickly. In my eyes, you are the best warrior I've ever met, and a good friend who would not jeopardize a mission..." Trailing off, stared at him for a long minute, and then walked away to wait by the door.

[Kart]

Minor Phran 'Amasee
Reporting for inspection

All the rest of his lance had come and gone by the time Phran straggled into the base, berating himself for his cupidity. How had he let himself be so distracted by merchandise, like some bumpkin from the colonies? Probably because I'm some bumpkin from the colonies, he reflected. Inwardly, he swore to return the 'Xirsas stiletto that he'd purchased. Even after all the time he'd spent at the stall, he wound up buying the first thing that he'd laid his eyes on. What a waste of time.

The inspection was brief and perfunctory, mainly ascertaining that he possessed all the necessary equipment and that it wasn't about to break into a dozen pieces. The onus was on the soldiers themselves to maintain their armor--the soldier that did not would reap the consequences of what he had sown.

It was getting late, and Phran decided that he'd train for awhile in the practice halls. Perhaps learn to use his new knife. He worried about his decision. Was he rationalizing? Was he simply avoiding returning the dagger?

No. He thought. It really would be practical if I were to learn to use one...




Fieldmaster Legra Je'at Ra'ha 'Adantai
Market District

It was a pleasure to be back in the heart of the Covenant. In some places, you could forget who you were...forget that you were a warrior in the service of the Prophets...forget your purpose, your drive, your motivation...

But not here. Not in High Charity.

Here, he felt like what he was. Clad in his gold armor, even without his bodyguard serving as an entourage, the crowds parted for him. He would draw glances from all sides, both respectful and jealous. He had been born the son of a peasant, and now he held command over an entire Legion.

If only the price had not come so high. The sacrifices on Xanadu were high. The tests that Reticent had imposed on him were...troublesome. He would certainly welcome this chance to relax and recoup his strength. He spotted a nearby tea shop, and strolled in, nearly colliding with a Sangheili walking out.

[BetaWülf]

Jiralhanae Captain(Chieftain to be) Garatus, Restorer of Tribes, Killer of Shadow Imps.

Garatus forced his way through the crowded Tavern as he made his way towards his mark, the Nomad Assassin Leader. As Garatus made his way towards him(slitting the throat of an Assassin as he went), his eyes widened as the Assassin lifted one of his Maulers and aimed right at Garatus. To Garatus's surprise he was not dead or wounded, but in fact grinning. As the Mauler had been lifted and aimed a round from an Impaler had been fired which wretched the weapon from the Assassins hand, Garatus looked to his left through the crowd to see that his Uncle Eugenius had fired it and saved Garatus's life. Garatus made a nod towards his Uncle which may or may not have been lost in the crowd, before laughing mockingly at the Assassin leader for his yelp. The Nomad Assassin turned his sight to Eugenius, and Garatus's pupils went to slits as he let out a shrill yet thunderous roar and charged the Nomad. The Nomad did much the same, drawing a serrated machete from within his cloak before he too charged.

The two clashed blade to blade, snarling and snapping at each others faces as they fought with their blades. Garatus wielded his large combat knife against the serrated machete, with the swiping of clawed hands intermittent in the battle. Garatus brought up his gauntlet defensively as he spun his blade hand around in an overhead arch which was parried, the Assassin Leader retorting with the back of his hand to Garatus's muzzle. Garatus stumbled back with blood leaking from his flared nostrils before making a false swing and grabbing the Assassins blade hand in the confusion, before bringing his knee up into the side of the Nomads ribs. The Assassin let out a small gasp before retaliating by punching Garatus in the gut, before swinging his serrated machete and grazing Garatus's left arm. Garatus roared as the flesh of his arm was torn, viciously swinging his combat knife and catching the serrations of the blade and sending the machete flying from the Assassins paws. Garatus threw his own blade aside(more accurately he threw into someones side) and leapt at his attacker. The Nomad half sidestepped Garatus but the two still landed heavily to the floor together, a rolling mass of flying fur and small shreds of skin and blood. The Nomad swiped at Garatus and clawed his chest before biting into his hand, Garatus roaring and delivering a furious punch to his foe. A tooth and blood hit the floor from the punch but did little to slow the Assassin down, the cold blooded killer punching Garatus in return.

Garatus slashed violently and repeatedly with his long sharp claws, getting his opponent across the face and chest before punching the Nomadic Assassin in the throat. Garatus took advantage of this opportunity and began pounding on the face of the Assassin Leader, each heavy blow of his gargantuan fists bruising skin and bone. Teeth and blood flew from Garatus's attacks, Garatus going berserk and beating his lower arms into the Nomads chest whilst hooting and howling furiously. Once Garatus had left his berserking rage, a badly beaten and bloodied Assassin lay before him. The creature gurgling and spouting blood from many wounds, the rest of the Assassins petering out and dying at the vengeful claws of the patrons. Garatus rose from his knees, half dazed and covered in blood. He threw his head back before leading his fellow survivors in a roar of delivered justice and bloody vengence. Once his roar was through he stumbled over to one of the few remaining bar stools and sat heavily upon it, half draping over the bar itself. He looked at the carnage and life-loss around him and was saddened, before he noticed his Uncle and hollered towards him.

"Remind me to never go to an Ale-House again Uncle," Garatus said before thumping his heavy brow into the wooden bar,"Are you going to be alright, that hand wound looks like it needs tending?" Garatus said as he noticed the awful wound and knife still stuck in his Uncles hand.


(OOC: hope you meant for me to NPC the Nomadic Assassin Leader, if not I can change my post)

[Faclan]

SSA - Yanme'e Swarm (Survivors)
Arriving for cleanup.

(Drinker and Ultra)
The flight back towards the ape nectar box was uneventful since they were going full speed back toward it. Unaware that the situation had been dealt and they would be doing cleanup if anything when they arrived they kept up the pace until the ale house came into view. The Yanme'e that left to get help having explained the situation to her Ultra on the flight over as they looked for more evil apes arriving. But instead the Drinker spotted one of the robed evil ones looking like it was leaving and trying to run away. A quick hiss made them both start to dive toward the ape in question.

If anyone from the inside happened to be looking outside they would hear a screech from the two female bugs and a scream from the Jiralhanae as they both descended upon it. Both latching onto its face with their claws as they combined impact made it topple backwards. The following few seconds was an orgy of slashing and ripping from the bugs claws and talons as the apes face was quickly reduced to a bloody mess and the screaming quickly stopping as he lay dead. With the deed done they hopped off the body and moved into the nectar box, the Drinker nodding at the Sangheili who had told her to get help as her and the Ultra stood there with red blood dripping off their claws and talons.

"I get Swarm ultra for help, other Swarm telling Holy Guard and Nest. But look like situation done."


Cad - Kig-Yar Major
Still happily sleeping.

Throughout all the murder and death Cad had remained happily sleeping, all the shaking however made some of the bottles above him fall down but they thankfully missed him or lightly bounced off him and didn't cause him any trouble for his sleeping. But a few cleaning cloths and even a large bag for garbage also fell down to be laying over his feet as his dreams continued. He should be fine in the morning but would have a really big hangover, thankfully the ceremony shouldn't need him to do much.

His dreams having shifted from back on his asteroid home to the frozen planet with Garatus. The fun times they had in those Human stores with the cookies and trying to figure out what all the stuff there was actually for. It was a fun little break from the fighting...until those damned Black Humans showed up and nearly killed him. Kicking a bit as he slept the memories then moved onto the base he and Garatus set up where he became part of his pack...good times.

The roar of the patrons made him cheep quietly as he curled up a little, the bag and towels now over his waist but even the roars couldn't get past his super drunk mind and also being knocked out. His scarf was still around his neck as Garatus thumped his head into the bar, Cad's snores an odd mix of breathing and quiet pheeping.


Eugine - Jiralhanae Advisor
Damn youngins...

Ducking back under his table cover as a chair was flung at his head Eugine was glad to hear that the noise of all the fighting was starting to die down. Peaking up again with his pistol held tightly he was relieved to see that most of the bastard heretics lay dead or were in the process of having their throats cut or necks snapped. Good stuff. Cautiously stepping out from behind his cover he kept his pistol ready as he looked around for his nephews. Finally catching sight of Garatus, as he stepped away from the badly mangled corpse of the assassin leader Eugine nodded and moved over to the body as well and retrieved his staff from the ground as he nodded at the barely moving leader as he threw back his head and roared with the rest for their victory.

"Leave the leader, we will get some answers from him." He called out after the victory roar as he looked around at the cost for victory. A good amount of innocent patrons also laid dead in addition to the assassins as he sighed a bit. Such a useless loss of life. Grunting he slipped his staff under his arm as he grabbed the assassins leader and dragged him over to lay him beside the bar so he and Garatus could keep an eye on him so he wouldn't be dragged away or killed. With that done he leant his staff against the bar and leaned against it as he turned to Garatus and responded, looking down at the knife still in his bad hand as he nodded.

"Alright - more ale for me then, and my hand will be fine as long as I get it looked at properly and not try to remove it now. It doesn't hurt as much as you probably think so because I lost most of the feeling in it after it was destroyed." He said, holding it up a little and nodding at the large knife stuck in it as he frowned a little. "Looks like its in a bone, that's going to be agony to get out...nice knife though. May be keeping it." Looking around again at all the bodies and wrinkling his nose a bit at the quikly overpowering smell of blood he nodded at Garatus. "We should try to get as many as we can to the healers, this place isn't conducive to having them come to us. So pack up your little Kig friend and we can start going with our wounded and our prisoners..." Turning to face Gjanee, who was probably executing some injured assassin, he smiled and held out his good hand with his staff still held under his arm. "Eugenius - advisor to the soon to be Chieftain Garatus, thanks for coming to help with these Herectics."

[BetaWülf]

Sangheili Major Gjanee Bakee
Jiralhanae Tavern, cleaning up the filth


Gjanee had continued to fight and kill the foul Assassins as the battle had started to die down, getting clawed across his left and cheekbone before he responded with a swift bash to his attackers face. He made little note of what everyone else was doing, but he had looked up long enough to see two Jiralhanae leader types clash before Gjanee went back to skull shattering. The battle died down to a calm slaughter of Assassins, enough that some individuals started taking seats or going on their way. Gjanee placed his splayed foot on the chest of a rising Assassin, the scum stuck its hands out in a plead but Gjanee was the judge here and he sentenced death. He raised his mace high before bringing it down in one swift swing, the bladed edge imbedding in the face of the Jiralhanae Assassin. Gjanee left the mace as an Elder Jiralhanae started to speak to him, the tall Sangheili turning and walking over to the one speaking to him.

"My pleasure to meet you Eugenius, Garatus," he said as he graciously bowed his head, "I am Gjanee Bakee, and I try my best to help my brothers" Gjanee said with a mandible smile as he took Eugenius's in his own and shook it. "Can I help you get the wounded to the healers friend?" Gjanee said raising an eye quizzically.

Jiralhanae Captain Garatus
No rest for the weary

Garatus nodded to his Uncle before Eugenius engaged the Sangheili in conversation, what an odd fellow this one was. Garatus took a table cloth and made it into a sling the hung across his chest before he looked behind the bar to see Cad fast asleep. Garatus carefully and gently picked up his Kig-yar friend and set him softly into the sling for ease of transport of his reptilian friend. Garatus rose with his unconscious baggage slung across his chest and proceeded to aid his fellow Jiralhanae, dragging the corpses into a pile after using the rest of the table cloth to bandage wounds of the injured patrons. Garatus had one of the smaller males slung of his shoulders before picking up a wounded mother who had been badly cut in defense of her cubs.

"Everyone uninjured aid the wounded, carry your brothers and sisters if you have to, just get them to the nearest medical station. Come on everyone, step quickly as you can, now, with haste!" Garatus said as he led the procession of wounded from the Ale-House, they needed desperately to get these poor people to much needed medical attention.


T'vaoan Major Roh Gel
Noodles and fun

Roh walked along through the city with his 'mate' Del Var, hands embraced as they went. It was a lovely city that was bustling with every species you could imagine, save for Humans. But Roh didn't mind, there were enough species already to content his desire for diversity, what was one more kind of Simian to him? Nothing honestly, especially since they had murdered his sister Qesa. But right now he wanted to spend the day with his love and just be happy, no discontent like so much of his life before now. He smiled and looked over to Del, who in turn did the same.

"What shall we do today Del?" Roh asked, his feathered mane bustling quizzically."Hmm, how does food sound to you Roh? I starving" she said as she cocked her head to the side to await his answer."Food sounds good, how about noodles?" Roh asked, before they both bobbed their heads in agreement on it. The happy couple made their way through the busy streets of the non-segregated sections of the city, reaching a Noodle Cart eventually. They both ordered extra large cartons ready to go, Del getting insects mixed in while Roh got meat chunks.

They puttered around the city munching on their noodles, picking up shiny trinkets from the market stalls, Roh finding a very nice cutlass at a Kig-yar booth that he promptly attached to his belt. They had both gotten a tad thirsty and stopped at one of the many Kig-yar Tea houses, getting some refreshments before the two climbed up into a nearby tree to watch the happenings below as they enjoyed their drinks.

[Huka]

Medical Room of the Workshop

The Inquisitors stepped into the room after hearing from a worker about a scuffle, they came to a startling scene; three bodies were splayed about in the room, blood painting the floor and on the medical table was Til, tightening a cloth around his bicep from a salved gash with little more than a stoic sneer. Rolling and testing his arm, the Zealot appeared satisfied with his work before stepping off the table. His powerful muscles pressing against his white-brown scales while his clannish exterior wrapped around his back like reptilian armor. The tattoos and new branding liked as vivid as ever, nevermind the cold look in his good eye. “You’ve failed.”

While one kept his attention on the silent Zealot in growing contempt, the other looked down at the bodies; all workers of the Forge but one thing did catch his attention, they had similar prominent scales like Til. Two of the three were killed by surgical work of a blade while the closest to ‘Muramai’s feet had a snapped neck and broken limbs.

“What do you-?” The senior was about to question before the Zealot snapped as if catching a poor excuse of a soldier in his ranks, fists clenched and muscles tightened as he took on dominating step forward, “You’ve failed in keeping your charges alive, Inquisitor. Are you new to guard status or are you apart of this?” The Muram hissed venomous as he gestured a hand to the dead corpses of his clansmen.

Til bore his sight down into the Inquisitor’s eye with his mandibles tense as if daring him to speak the wrong words and risk having his face bitten off by those twitching tusks.

“We...just gotten reports of your comrade’s cell being destroyed by a explosive. Five bodies; two of the Honor Guard, two very unidentifiable corpses in a grenade-burnt cell...some of the guards suggest it is...” The Inquisitor started, forcing himself to look at the vivid Zealot, “Sorsa ‘Xirsasai by the size.”

Til continued his death stare for a moment longer before it was obvious he was already aware of this particular development. “I’ve heard of that and more.” he answered, flexing his fingers and relaxed very slowly. “Quickly, I need some proper armor and equipment before we continue. Even the dead have ears…it is time to right both of our disrespect.”

The Inquisitor looked down at the bodies once and back to the Zealot, giving an agreeing nod. Good, Til would have killed him if he didn't.

It didn’t take long to find either, the boon of being in one of High Charity’s most prominent arsenal smiths, and three Special Operatives stepped out with jet-black harnesses and appropriate weapons for their coming goals.

[Faclan]

SSA - Yanme'e Swarm (Survivors)
General warning message and guarding.

(Drinker and Ultra)
Thankfully the bugs didn't care that they wernt thanked as it was quickly apparnet that the apes were moving off with their prisoners and wounded. The Ultra turning to the attache and nodding out toward the tower with a quiet hiss in the clicking Yanme'e language. "Sangheili not warn city, go warn any see, warn of evil." The Attaché nodded and quickly flew out of the city as the Ultra glanced around for a good perch to guard the ground from and settled on the Sangheili swinging around the pretty hunk of metal. Flying over she gently landed on his armored shoulders and nodded at him.

"I guard as go, protect evil." She said simply in broken Sangheili as she took out her plasma rifle and scanned around for more shadow killers.

The attaché flew a steady pace around the city, telling a few Sangheili and Unggoy about the issue before spotting two T'vaoan happily walking around. Those would be a good next group as she swooped down and landed in front of both of them. It was likely a shock to them that a Yanme'e landed right in front of both of them with its plasma pistol out, but at least it wasn't pointed at them as she nodded.

"Assassins in the city, attack Sangheili and Jiralhanae, be on lookout. Danger city, danger nest."

With the message delivered the attaché lifted off the ground again, but hung around for a bit in case the T'vaoan couple had questions.


Cad - Kig-Yar Major
Little bird being carried by Mama.

It was good that during this time Cad was still in a drunken stupor sleep or he may have had to throw himself off a cliff from the embarrassment of it all. Like the time he was forced to rely on Garatus for food and water when the Black Humans had nearly killed him...but he just flopped around occasionally when picked up and when laid in the sling was kind enough to return to his curled up posture to be easier to carry as he kept quietly pheeping and cheeping as they went. It would certainly be an interesting story to tell Cad when he would finally be able to think in a straight line again as one of his feet stuck over the side of the sling as the convoy of wounded headed toward hopeful safety.


Eugine - Jiralhanae Advisor
Moving out with their new Jelly friend.

Smiling and nodding at the firm handshake back Eugine already liked this Sangheili. Not only for his respect of his fellow Covenant members but also for his choice of weapon. A lovely old fashioned hunk of killing steel, not some fancy piece of barely contained plasma but something nice and brutal. But there would be more time for discussion with their new friend later as Euigne nodded as he holstered his pistol and started to move over to a wounded male - the large knife still stuck in his hand as he used his good hand to help the warrior to his feet.

"Likewise Bakee, but we seem to have the wounded under control. What would be very helpful however is to grab the leader of these heretics." He pointed with his bad hand at the badly mangled barely alive lump of fur and blood. "And bring him with us so we can ask him about himself and his friends. Make sure he doesn't die on the way or gets away, and afterwards I will gladly buy all of us some well deserved food...got a ceremony to attend tomorrow after all." Grunting in a mix of pain and exertion Eugine moved around trying to help as many as he could, but finally had to stop as he was exhausted and the pain in his hand getting worse as he finally nodded and walked with Garatus and Gajanee toward the medical station, a large group of foul smelling but victorious Jiralhanae for sure - but Eugine couldn't help but laugh at the Kig-Yar swaddled up like some babe as they went.

[Huka]

The Tower of the Ancients 

The Captain stiffened and leaned forward as if he was about to pounce the Yamne’e in midair when his translator caught the chatter. Assassins in his city! He was hesitate to that news but he’ve heard about a series of murders spotted about the city in the past unit. The City guards were supposely taking care of the investigations but this had reached the ears of the Tower Guard. Spatting out, the older Sangheili looked to the wide-eyed recruit, “Alarm the Guard! Blood is spilt in this city and I will stand as a ideal suit of armor whilst this is happen. We are going to eradicate this before more fall to this dark hand!” He ordered with a outraged roar, sending the youngster on a run.

If it was another Sangheili, he would make it more subtle but a Yanme’e aren’t keen to lying besides the malfunctioning drones and those are usually shipped to the farthest ore mines the moment they came through stratosphere.

Stepping away from the balcony, the aged warrior began his walk up towards the Minister’s office. He had to learn of this events immediately.

Albus
The Tavern

Slamming the last assassin down on the bar, the bloodied Albus chuckled darkly as his hands wrapped around the sputtering Jiralhanae’s neck tight as a constrictor. Blood of his own and those of his enemies pelted drip after drip onto the resisting male’s face, a fanged smile on his scarred lips and red eyes gleaming like rubies. He didn’t seem to care as hands gripped on his fur or claws tore at his tough skin, hardly felt a thing and to every major defiance, the Albino lifted him up once and slammed his skull down on the wood-work. Again and again before squeezing even tighter.

“Stop struggling and die.” The Ultra demanded before his claws gripped and snapped the gurgling neck once, then twice to finish things. Left with a agap maw in post-mortem, Albus chuckled at the corpse before slamming it down again with the crunch of a fractured skull.

“This was a fine night!” He howled and pumped an arm in triumph. Nearby Therus sitting down and feeding his styx bird a fresh piece of meat before stroking its crest down as it chirped and ate.

[BetaWülf]

Jiralhanae Captain(Chieftain to be) Garatus the Restorer, Slayer of Shadowed Imps
Long haul

Garatus shook his head and smirked as his Uncle laughed at the sight of Cad in the sling across Garatus's chest, like a cub and its mother back on Doisac. Garatus looked back into the Ale-House as one of the two Jiralhanae finished off what appeared to be the last live assassin(save for the Leader), before he pumped his fist declaring it was a fine night, and the other one was feeding his bird strips of flesh and sitting. Garatus was glad they were part of the battle on his side, but was still wary of their intentions now.

Garatus paused for a moment in the doorway of the Ale-House and looked back at the Albino and Jungle dweller, before continuing on his way into the streets followed by the other Jiralhanae, and that odd finger-face and his little crab sidekick. Garatus dredged along with his two wounded in hand(or over shoulder in the small males case), the nearest medical center wasn't too far away and luckily Jiralhanae weren't quick to tire.

Sangheili Major Gjanee Bakee
Time to take out the trash

Gjanee nodded to Eugenius and headed over to the badly beaten Assassin leader, it was quite nice to finally meet some friendly Jiralhanae. Gjanee heaved the assassin leader up and ended placing him dolly(two wheeled thing you pull or push with heavy and overlarge stuff on it) that had some crates of Jiralhanae Ale on it. Gjanee carefully tipped the dolly back with the assassin on it, the stinking(literally) bastards(who even knows?) feet were hanging off the back and dragging on the ground as Gjanee started to leave the Tavern. As he started to leave he noticed a rather small individual watching that Garatus fellow, or more aptly the injured female he was carrying, both this Cub and the injured female shared a rather uncommon yellow fur color which Gjanee realized meant they were related and she was most likely his mother.

Gjanee scooped the cub up in one arm as he pushed the dolly along in front of himself with the other arm, the young cub(scarcely three rotations old) was startled at first but soon settled in against Gjanee's chest as the tall Sangheili walked along, falling in alongside Eugenius. The Yanme'e Ultra landed gracefully upon Gjanee's shoulder as he walked, waving its plasma rifle around and speaking its intentions of guarding them as they walked. "Thank you Yanme'e, I appreaciate your help" Gjanee said with a nod and smile. "I have your Assassin Sir" Gjanee said to Eugenius as they walked along, "If you don't mind my asking... what was the battle about? Where did these Assassins come from and why would they try to slaughter a Tavern full of their own species?" Gjanee said with utter confusion permeating from his mandibles as he spoke, his Clan had never been one for backstabbing and had no use for Assassins other then to fertilize their crops.

[Faclan]

SSA - Yanme'e Swarm (Survivors)
Overwatch.

(Ultra)
Keeping one of her compound eyes on the slumped figure of the badly wounded assassin the Ultra hissed a bit and gripped her foot talons tighter on the Sangheili shoulder armor as she fiddled with her rifle. Slightly adjusting the power on it so if the ape managed to get up and try to make a run for it the lowered power shouldn't kill him if she missed his legs and hit higher. But with his current state she didn't think it was that likely as she took the walking time to look over the Sangheili perch she had decided on.

He looked different from the Master, more squat and solid that him with what looked like thicker skin. But he was strong, that much was obvious since he didn't seem to care that she was using his body as a perch and not seemingly showing any signs at all. She reminded him of a wingless worker in the nest. Smaller, not much to look at, but still able to do the jobs that were needed. Clicking a bit in approval and in reply to his thanks she returned her eyes on the assassin and forward


Cad - Kig-Yar Major
A sign of life?

Burping a bit as he lay in the sling Cad slowly opened his still dull eyes, so the alcohol was still clearly heavily affecting him, as he looked up to see Garatus's face above him. Taking a deep breath he seemed to be trying to regain some kind of composure before trying to speak.

"B...rbo...yer drink...strong."

Burping quietly again Cad flopped back in the sling and returned to a curled up position. Seems he was still super out of it as he haddn't asked that was going or on what had happened to the fighters - silly drunk bird.

Eugine - Jiralhanae Advisor
Slow limp...youngin'.

Glancing back and nodding in approval as Bakee got the assassin leader under control Euigne grunted a bit at the babe he picked up and moved over to them. Shifting his staff a bit he used his good hand to take the babe she Bakee could focus on the cart with the leader on it. After some more shifting he soon had the babe holding his staff as he then held the babe as he ehhed and shrugged at Bakee as they walked.

"No idea, his language before the fight started made it seem like this was our punishment for failing on that Human planet and loosing the artifact. We sure turned that punishment back on him and his friends but that would be my guess. We will be getting answers from him however once we get those that need it aid...And what's your name little warrior?" He asked, turning his attention to the little babe he had, large knife still in his bad hand.

"Telesious, is mama gona be ok?"

"That's some good talking, and she will be little one - did you manage to get any swings in?" Seems Eugine had a soft spot for children, but then again he was a grand-dad.

"Yeees, bit into one of the baddies leg."

Tussling the little ones head fur Eugine smiled and nodded, grunting a bit in pain from his stabbed hand before putting a smile back on as he kept walking. "Good, your mama will be proud of you for getting stuck in, but I think we all need some food and rest after this..."

"Yay!"

[BetaWülf]

Jiralhanae Captain Garatus the Restorer, Slayer of Shadowed Imps.

Garatus sighed before letting out a small chuckle towards Cad, "Indeed it is my friend, indeed it is" Garatus said before gently running a hand over Cad's head and through his quills. Garatus lifted his head and looked over at the young cub being passed from the Sangheili over to his Uncle, Garatus smiled warmly as the little one reminded him of his own children. As he watched his Uncle interact with the cub he was at first astonished by how well he handled the child, before Garatus remembered his Uncle had children of his own, and grandchildren too.

Garatus was pleased to see this side of his Uncle, it was new to him and he found it to be a refreshing discovery. They continued to trudge along for awhile before the medical station finally came into view, several medical workers rushed over to help with the wounded, mostly Unggoy and some Huragok. The apparent lead physician was surprisingly a T'vaoan, Garatus never thought of the T'vaoan as the healer types due to their aggressive nature. The T'vaoan Doctor lead them in and directed the flow of incoming wounded into the building, helping Garatus unload his two wounded he had been carrying onto hover stretchers before having them taken down a brightly lit corridor for immediate treatment.

"Doctor" Garatus said as he discreetly pulled the T'vaoan off to the side, "The hooded one with the badly beaten face, keep him sedated and under heavy restraints, he is the one responsible for these people being wounded and he is highly dangerous" Garatus finished before letting the doctor return to his duties.

[Spartan 999]

((Sorry for the wait, but I'm back now.))

Sorsa 'Xirsasai
Edge of the Markets

“Excellent,” Sorsa nodded to Kael. “I'll leave the exact methods and to you; I'm not quite as knowledgeable about Kig-Yar affairs as you are.” When Llau spoke next, his mandibles snapped in amusement. “I hope you wouldn't think I was a Heretic, otherwise I'd have to look out for your blade in my back.” He met her gaze for a few moments, but broke it off long before her stare ended. He clapped his hands. “Anyway, yes, I am ready. Follow me.”

Some Time Later...

Sorsa and co. were just outside the military base and walking towards it. Llau was already camouflaged, and Kael was lagging behind the Zealot several steps.

“Kael, there's a second primary door on the other side of the base.” Sorsa said over the coms. “Llau, The guards should be sufficiently distracted by me for you to get it.” However she did it, by scaling the wall or sneaking in past him, he was confident Llau would be able to sneak in undetected.

“Hold,” The Major at the gate said, one hand held up in a 'stop' gesture.

Sorsa came to a stop and lifted the datapad he was holding into the air. “I have a message for General Kerz 'Laktasee. High priority, his eyes only.” He hardly got to use different accents or voices, but he did so now, almost perfectly imitating a Katol accent along with a slightly higher-pitched voice.

The Major took a look at the emblem displayed on the datapad once, then nodded. “Very good.” The Sangheili gave a salute, which Sorsa returned.

He walked past the guard and through the gate. It would a few minutes to reach the General's quarters, but even longer for Llau to get in place. He took his time to reach the General, and even feigned getting turned around once, but 'fortunately' there was a Minor training in the practice halls that 'directed' him back onto the correct path. He thanked the young warrior (still with the accent and voice), then continued on his way.

Finally, he had reached the General's quarters at the end of the barracks. As Kerz was so high-ranking, he had a room all to himself. It wasn't that large if the blueprints were anything to go by, but it was more than enough to serve as an office.

“Llau, ready?” She replied with an affirmative. “Wait for my signal.”

He keyed the chime using the control panel beside the door. Several seconds passed, after which the General unlocked the door along with an “Enter!”

Sorsa waited for the doors to slide into the walls, then stepped through. Kerz glanced up at him before lifting a single finger, gesturing for him to wait. He pressed some keys on the personal computer console on the desk before him, then shut it down. After that he tapped something else on a datapad, then dropped it onto the desk and clasped his fingers before him.

“Yes, what is it?”

“High-priority message, your eyes only.” Sorsa handed Kerz his datapad, at the same time sending the signal to Llau. A second passed, then the lights went out and the door closed and locked. Right after that, the datapad flashed brightly, but Kerz was to fast.

He threw the device to the side and activated night vision using the contacts over his eyes, at the same time drawing and activating his energy sword. Sorsa surged forward, planting one hand on the table and swinging forward. He kicked Kerz in the chest, sending him staggering back, then drew and activated a stolen energy sword of his own.

The two clashed and their blades met several times, but the battle was brief. Sorsa slid one prong of his energy sword in between both of Kerz's, then pushed up and to the side. Before the General could properly react, Sorsa activated his off-hand's energy dagger and cut off Kerz's hand slightly above the wrist.

Kerz howled in pain and fell but Sorsa was on him in a split-second. He flipped Kerz, sliced through the energy shield generator on his back with one flick of his sword, then put grappled him and tore off his left hand's energy dagger.

“Talk swiftly.” Sorsa growled. “Where is Yinji?”

While he was interrogating Kerz, someone banged on the door several times. “General, are you alright?”

“You're dead if you answer. Now talk.”

Kerz did so, but not so much because of the torture or anything, but instead out of some zealous fervor or pride.

“You will not stop him,” Kerz muttered after spilling what Sorsa wanted to know, body trembling from the pain. “The gods will ensure your downfall--the Brotherhood will hang you by your entrails and show you for all Heretics to see!”

“I'd like to see them try.” Sorsa pulled out a syringe and injected the substance in it into Kerz's body; it was a subtle poison that was virtually undetectable by standard medical scanners, and it would make it seem like he had died of shock. After that, he rendered Kerz unconscious with a blow to the head.

As at least one of the people outside had an energy sword on them, they had taken it upon themselves to cut through the door in an attempt to save the General. They finished right after Sorsa did, and the section of the door that had been cut through fell down with a bang. He threw a scatter grenade at the soldiers gathered outside, which both blinded and deafened them.

Sorsa sprang through the hole made by the Ultra outside, then floored him and a couple of the other Sangheili nearby with single strikes as he sprinted away. Soon, the alarms sounded, no doubt thanks to those who were outside the General's room.

“Kael, I'm on my way to the other entrance. Doing whatever it is you were planning would be nice right about now.”

[Kart]

Minor Phran 'Amasee

Now, Phran wasn't exactly in a position of command, but he knew damn well that explosions weren't generally a good thing.

It was a muffled sound, probably a grenade (although he wasn't an expert, so he couldn't be certain) that sounded distant, but definitely came form within the complex. Tossing aside his spent Plasma Rifle, he grabbed a fresh one out from a nearby crate and exited the practice room. He started off in the direction of the sound he heard. As he did so, the entire base suddenly came alive without the clarion call of alarms. Unbidden, an Ascetic proverb came to mind.

Only ill news should ever be delivered by a scream.

He took off at a run, along with much of the base's personnel. Notably, the Sangheili and Jiralhanae ran toward the explosion, and the Unggoy ran away from it. Shaking his head at the Unggoy's cowardice, Phran rushed to the forefront of the responding Covenant. As he turned down the winding corridors, he absentmindedly recalled that this was the way he'd sent that strange 'Katol clansman.

A number of other Sangheili now flanked him. They were strangers to each other--none of them were from his lance, and a couple of them didn't even bear the same Sect glyph that he did. But there was some semblance of command--the responding charge was lead by a red-armored Major. They knew that they had reached reached destination when they happened upon a hallway filled with smoke--and the unconscious bodies of several Sangheili on the ground.

"The General's quarters!" The Major Domo shouted behind him. Gesticulating wildly, the red-armored Sangheili pointed down the opposite hallway. "I will see to the General! The rest of you, find out who did this!"

Phran nodded. "We serve."

He took off, rifle in hand and a prayer on his lips.

"Smoke does not obscure our eyes, and fire does not discourage our steps. We walk the path no matter the hardship."

[Faclan]

(Cad and SSA out of this post since they ain't doing much at this second)

Eugine - Jiralhanae Advisor
Tired but pleased.

Eugine was certainly glad when they finally arrived at the medical station as even though it was just a walking pace he was huffing a bit and would have been having trouble keeping up if it was much further away. Due to his age mostly, but also all the exertion that had happened in the battle and the fact he was carrying a babe the entire way. But luckily the little one was content to just rest against him during the walk so he was easy to carry, and after their little talk earlier was pleased to just sit there quietly in his arms. The knife in his hand didn't help much either, but all in all Eugine was just glad when they finally arrived, so he could take a rest and the injured ones could get some proper medical attention.

Setting the little one on the hover stretcher with its mother Euigne took a deep breath and seated himself in an empty chair. The wounded starting to be taken away if needed for more specialized aid that just some cuts and bruises for those that were able to walk her on their own steam. Looking around happily that they had made it without any dropping dead Eugine carefully pushed the Huragok away that came over to him and nodded at the others before he removed his notebook with his good hand. "I'm fine, its a old injury with an attachment on it, help the others first then it can be removed." The small head weaved around before it made some shapes with its tentacles before bleeting quietly and moving off to the others.

Shaking out his good hand a bit as he left the open notebook on his knee he began to scribe what had happened today; the arrival, the good ale, the bastard heretics, their allies in the forms of the distant pack mates and Bakee, and then making it to the medical station. Glacing up at Garatus he cuuckled at the Kig-Yar Cad still snoring quietly in the sling as he cleared his throat from his snicker and nodded at his nephew.

"Good work Garatus, seems everyone who could make it made it - probably saved a good few lives today with the tavern fighting and the quick time getting here. Thanks again Bakee for the help, good to see some Sangheili that don't always look down your mandibles at us." He said, smiling lots as he kept recording, resting his notebook against his bad hands forearm so he could see Garatus and Bakee as he wrote.


Kael Gel - T'vaoan Champion
Making some 'friends'.

Kael rolled her eyes a bit at Llau as she stood up from her leaned over position, ready to go as she replied. "Those are vices for the lower class, we Shipmistresses, Clan elite, and wealthy merchants are above such common entertainment...but I am greatly looking forward to some mayhem and cheating." She said, giving as much of a smirk as she could with a beak before she followed the Sangheili out of the little hideout and toward the base, dropping her pistol into the bag as well. "And don't you worry Sorsa, I'll have those base Kigs under my claw soon enough, one way or another."

Once they were in range of the base Kael carefully fell back to be about twenty feet behind the visible and invisible Sangheili, headset over her skull and ear holes as she got the message about a separate door. Just giving a simple confirmation click Kael made a slight adjustment in her course and headed for this secondary door. Quickly finding it Kael noted the Minor Sangheili guarding the smaller door as she slouched her posture a little bit and dropped her expression to appear less proud as she ambled up to the door. The guard glanced away from watching the messenger, but just waved her past so he could look back after Kael tapped the end of her beak with an 'Excellency' as she stepped in. Phase one done.

Straightening up once she was in she could easily hear the squawks and calls of her species and headed toward it. "One minor at side door, moving in." She whispered to Sorsa before finding the seemingly Kig-Yar section of the base. She quickly noted that all of them were the smaller Kig-Yar, and most of them were males - perfect. The twenty or so soldiers were mostly clustered around a good sized table in the section, six of the Kigs seated at it as well as a few empty seats. They seemed to be playing a card game, Kael quickly recognizing it as Ships Sails, a pile of Gekz in the middle as well as barter items - perfect. She would need to act like the dominate T'vaoan female to make this work, oh nooooo, how would she manage.

Removing the Sangheili ultra helmet from her bag she half shoved have slid past the watchers, slammed the helmet down on the table, and took one of the empty seats. As she sat she noticed that the male beside her had the edge of a card in his pocket, so he was trying to cheat, even better.

"Mistress?" One of them spoke up as she now at the attention of everyone. Kael just smirking as she nodded at the helmet. "Enough for the buy-in? Of course not, better add a bit more." Tossing the two Ultra bracers up on the table too she glanced around and noted that all of the Kigs were glued on the items, she was now in as the Kig that had spoken up quickly nodded as he gulped a bit. The male was likely equal parts impressed and worried that items like were on the table, but like all Kigs he couldn't let a deal like that pass up as he nodded.

"Indeed Mistress, we'll deal you in immediately!" Kael nodded as cards were slid her way. Taking the three cards she glanced down at them and nodded as she tapped her middle claw against the table, her buy-in standing. It seemed as if none of these Kigs had recognized her yet, which as of right now was playing into her favor as she glanced down to make sure her Needle Pistol was still in the bag by her feet.

A few rotations went, the pot growing as two Kigs backed out, leaving Kael, one other female, and three other males (including the cheater) as Kael kept slowly adding her own Gekz to the pile from her infopad. Just buying time really as she waited for the start of phase three. She had been making small talk mostly as she made sure to keep an eye on the base as the lights out here were unlikely to be affected. Finally it happened, Kael getting a little click from Llau before the bases lights flickered, the top floor of the base being plunged into darkness as Kael made her distraction move. Squawking loudly as she looked at the cheater beside her she grabbed the front of his vest and hauled him onto the table, the other Kigs at the table and around cheeping in surprise and going for weapon before Kael pulled the card out of his pocket and slid it across the table, pulling out three more cards from the kicking Kig-Yar as she moved her hand from his vest to the back of his neck before calling out, "Cheat!"

It didn't make a riot, but had the desired affect of making the Kigs cause a commotion, Kael quickly ducking back as she grabbed her pistol and extracted herself from the throng of Kig-Yar. The minor guard was quickly heading over to the commotion as weapons were being brandished from the Kig-Yar camp and Kael quickly weaved past him to be near the door he was now not guarding. The Gekz she lost would be a small price to pay for all this enjoyment as she kept her head on a swivel as she looked for possible hitches in the plan of escaping out this side door.

"Side door clear, guard with the angry Kigs...one determined Sangj Minor over here but so far clear." She quickly reported as she kept her eyes on him but also looking around, pistol in its older holster but unbuttoned, ready for drawing should this minor cause trouble...

(Dats you Kart...may mess up the scheme! Hope it was alright for you being outside.)

[Kart]

Phran 'Amasee
Foiling Plans

Chaos cannot touch one whose heart is in order.

Phran repeated the Ascetic mantra to himself as he tried to navigate his way through the crowd of squabbling Kig-Yar. At first, he though that there had been some kind of attack, as there was shouting and weaponry being waved about, until his ears began to pick up some of what they were saying. Words like "cheat" "money" and "mine mine mine" seemed to be the most popular choices. He shook his head disapprovingly. Clearly they had been playing some sort of game of chance. Gambling was bad enough in the shadowy recesses of High Charity, but to engage in such an activity at the base? That was simply wrong.

One of the Kig-Yar jostled into him. Responding with a terse grunt, Phran muttered under his breath. "Chaos cannot touch one whose heart is in order. Chaos cannot touch one whose heart is in order." Reiterating the mantra, trying to calm himself down. It would not do to lose his temper when he was engaged in trying to pursue the intruder.

He noticed a T'vaoan slip by him. Turning on his heel to pursue her, he was thwarted by one of the Kig-Yar stepping in front of him. The creature seemed flustered, yet entreating, gesticulating widely. He was saying something along the lines of "I was being cheated, this is against, the law, do something" but Phran honestly couldn't care less. He had a target to hunt down, and that T'vaoan looked like she might know something.

"Please, stand by." He said to the indignant Kig-Yar, repeating the mantra in his head. He strode toward the exiting T'vaoan when the gambler interrupted him again, demanding that he arrest the other Kig-Yar. Phran's frustration bubbled over for a moment, and turned about and shouted "CHAOS CANNOT TOUCH ONE WHOSE HEART IS IN ORDER" as he smashed the offending Kig-Yar with his Plasma Rifle, sending the poor creature to the ground.

Berating himself for losing control, he hurried toward the T'vaoan.

"Halt, in the name of the Prophets!"

[Huka]

Standing Grace, Colony World--Indomitable Sentinel
<<By Orders of Our Gracious Magistrate: We are hereby ordered to contain the Sect Assassination>>

From the Tower of All Tongues, its sanctioned guards marched like an archaic army of crusaders with gleaming glaives and unactivated blades in their hands. Faces stoic under their crested helmets, backs tall and boots marching along the stone roads leading into the city behold this ancient sight in unison. The insects stirred in excitement to this sudden activity in such a late unit. In the front of these four speartips were lieutenants of the guardsmen with the Captain of the Guard taking the direct march for the Hall housing the marked sect. His hidden face etched into a disgusted sneer; not of the break of peace, not of the death that polluted his city under his watch, no...it was the hands behind it all.

“I know, Captain.” He said. He know! At first, the Captain was morbidly confused and inwardly praying his first thoughts of hearing this was mistakening. His marble-colored eyes were understandingly wide and staring at the San’Shyuum sitting on the comforted chair, elbows on the polished desk with sleeves gathered around, and chin resting on bony fingers while those usually bored eyes had a serpent’s glee to them as he watched his Captain of the Guard. He stood perfectly still with a very subtle shift of his feet, a swallow and he started again, “You know?”

“Yes I do, the recently-arrived sect is being marked by hired Hassiss’ains for a good couple units now. Six unessentials were taken care of first in the lesser quarter of the city, buying some black market dealings. Then the heretical Jiralhanae that costed us that Relic...I’ve personally recruited from tribesmen of that lowly Shadowland faction. They were quite happy to perfect the deed without rein. I agreed.” The Magistrate said, regally swooping a goblet of unknown content up. Probably his fine High Charity wine. Sipping and nodding to the tastes, he looked towards the still guard. “Then the Sect’s officers, the incompetent fools to allow this mutiny to begin. Surviving ultras and selected majors.”

His hearts races to this. Mandibles moved but no words came for a moment, suddenly feeling older than he is before croaking out, “Surely you know they are innocent of the given crimes. Their attached Zealot team is being held for trial-”

A seemingly loud landing of the San’Shyuum’s goblet silenced the Sangheili instantly, actually fearful to this sudden revelation while the theological leader remained so cold and calm as if this wasn’t even the dimmest close to his concern. “They are going to be dealt with all the same, Captain. The sect will not be destroyed. It will be severly crippled and rightfully punished for its embarrassing failure of collecting a holy artifact of our Divinities. Even the Gods have seen them unworthy as the reports tells it. By dawn, the sect will be rescued and live on as a living example of failure.”

The Captain blinked with a slight jerk of his head, “Rescued...sire?” Then a little grin appeared on the Magistrate’s face, “By my ever-loyal guard. Everything will fall into place.”

That alone spoke for itself.

A mandible twitched and the navigation glyphs appeared on the Captain and his elite strike-teams’ war contacts across the city. Leave no witnesses alive…by the order of our gracious Magistrate.


The Jiralhanae Underground Arena, Under Standing Grace’s Upper City

The smell of death and discharged firearms took the whole estate in a nogaslatic feeling. Warriors of low caliber on either side dead or dying about, the first of the would-be assassins dead and strung up about for ritualistic sacrifice to the Elder Gods. Those that disagreed outwardly were handedly taken care of and the battles still raged.

A mighty roar rippling through the air, axe cleaving through fur, flesh and bone from one end to the other. Head flying into the air, face frozen in a pained roar before landing onto the stairs in a amusing bounce. Valerius kicked the quivering body after it and rested his blood-bathed weapon onto his shoulder with a hungry look in his eyes as he watched the chaos around him until a sputtering flare of jetpacks interrupted his glee.

“Ah, Nikomedius. Have you finally gotten the courage to join into a beautiful battle?” The bloodied captain asked in mild disdain, not even acknowledge the Jiralhanae ultra with a look. A little hunched over, the Jump-pack officer bowed regardless in his usual facade. “And spoil my ever-magnificent Master’s bloodsport. Never.” He replied with a little grin under the shadow of his bow. Sighing out as his axe came down to rest on both hands, bouncing over one in subtle warning, Valerius finally glanced down at his subordinate, “Do you have a reason being here, besides a failed attempt to warn me of these marauders of assassins…?”

Nikomedius quickly perked his head up and tried to speak before the bladed end of the captain’s axe touched under his chin, lifting the other’s head higher with a clear view of his throat. Swallowing and averting eyes quickly when they saw the white of the barbaric gladiator’s jaw attachment to his helmet, the ultra managed to say, “Y-yes!”

“Or were you hear to see if they manage to kill me? Maybe a gruesome end like a pack of Huemalam hounds?” Valerius continued to pressure and smiled evilly as his Beta tried to decline that projected suspicion, “N-Never, Cap-”

“Chieftain!” The Lak-eda’Imom berserker corrected. That made Nikomedius aim at the Jiralhanae helm’s jawline and breathed hastily, “Chieftain.” “I am no longer bound by that failure of a Chief, I am my own and this…” Valerius continued, gesturing his free hand to the massacre around. “Is my tribe and you...will go and retrieve Albus and Therutus, for they are apart of my new vision. With you as my ever-loyal Second-in-Command…”

A mix of glee and hidden anger built in Nikomedius to that almost mocking saying, the way Valerius said it made it signify as some cleverly-veiled insult. “If you don’t fail me again, in protection of your Chieftain and continuation of his power.” Lowering his eyes submissively, the Jump Pack commander let out a barely-contained, “Yes, Almighty...Chieftain.”

Sliding his axe away, Valerius growled deeply, “Now...watch as I dominate the rest of these pitiful assassins to my will and find the puppeteer behind this little assault.” With that said, he lept down to the arena floor to the herded remnants of the assassins surrounded by the former Captain’s pack and arena-goers with his second-in-command sneering hatefully, hand resting over his spiker but never drew. No...the time isn’t right.

“You have fought well, assassins…” Valerius addressed, planting his main axe down into the dirt floor next to his foot. Red eye glancing at the wounded and furious. “But alas, you have been foolishly charioted to Death’s embrace. You know of your prey and you bravely confronted for whatever little monetary or honor you drived to gain. It isn’t enough. Never would have been…”

A couple Jiralhanae growled and seemed ready to pounce but they were no position to with several of their would-be victims aiming all sorts of weaponry at them, some more of a overkill than others. Valerius slowly crossed his arms over his broad chest.

“You have stepped into my domain and womb. The arena. I am the Champion of my tribe and these are the fine warriors under my command. To kill me here is like you touching the sun; it will burn horrifically. Now...you have the chance to get down on your knees and submit to become apart of something greater...or die as my foundation.” Valerius said; firm, direct and to point. The silence was long and staggering but the heady cocktail of different pheromones took the air. The assassins looked amongst themselves and gave no answer.

With that, the Chieftain let out a sigh, “Very well...Mokurus, rid us of-” He started before one of the assassins called out, “Wait, mighty Valerius…!” A look of annoyed intrigue aimed to the caller, a large but simple-looking Jiralhanae under the hood and theateritics of a visible killer. Stepping forward with a declined head, the assassin fell on a knee and spoke clear, “I submit to your clear power and dominance. It is clear we were fools to try to handle you in direct combat and pass blame onto our former leader before he fell to your Shaman’s axe and witcheries.”

“Very good. Know that I am not as idiotic as some will perceive me to be, words will do nothing to ease my mind towards darker intentions. If I even think you are preparing anything of ill-will, I will take acute pleasure in ending your life as I’ve done to several of your kin around you.” Valerius warned. “And you will have all rights to, Mighty Alpha.”

Rumbling out after a moment of thought, Valerius looked up and spoke, “Anyone else?” One after another, the surviving assassins fell to their knees and pumped out the scent of submission to the Jiralhanae, humiliated and defeated. Chuckling throatedly, the establishing chieftain lifted a claw and pointed, “For the last to submit step forward.” He ordered, picking out the middle-aged and interestingly largest of the survivors. A look of barely-veiled pride deflation and careful attention to avoid direct challenge as he lumbered a good armlength away from Valerius, enough to stay out of his axe’s way noticeably.

“Tell me...who hired you to spill my blood?” He asked with a bird-like tilt of his head. The hairs on the back of the assassin’s neck risen and eyes shifted some. “A um...a-’ he started before he mumbled out of instinctive professionalism, unwilling to give out that kind of information. It usually required some ‘persuasion’ or the client was powerful in some force; a rival chieftain, a underling...or something more. So many possibilities. “I see…” Valerius stated with a little nod and smile under his helmet, “That is good that you are still loyal to your last master. If this was a different situation, I would glad that I could trust such a dependable cutthroat to not speak of my mind.”

The assassin relaxed slowly with a little nod before a smell came into the air between the two males. Then a pair of white-hot spikes shot into the assassin’s thighs and calves, provoking a scream of surprised pain as he fell back next to his comrade. Eyes looked over to find it to be one of Valerius’ minors, a grin of his toothy face and holstering his spiker back.

“Take him to the infirmary and get what I need.” Valerius ordered before looking over to the first assassin, “And you and I will talk privately.” The targeted male swallowed as he looked at his brother-in-arms as he beaten some more and dragged away by two stronger soldiers.

Aboard Transport Carrier, High Charity
En route to Warehouse 231-C

“Disturbance.” Inquisitor ‘Vamakee reported, tapping on his datapad, “In the Garrison of Sunken Pride.” “The cause?” Til questioned with his unaltered voice deep and stronger than rotations ago, bare-faced and taking a moment to inhale through a breathing apparatus with a loud hiss of gasses to ease his agitated lungs. For nearly two decades he’ve been healing and despite previous doubts, it was working. Didn’t really need the apparatus constantly or input of gases, but it was never too unwise to be careful.

“Unreported yet, the garrison’s general is being unresponsive.” Til pulled his mask away and snorted abit as his upper mandibles twitched, “We’ll investigate on it after this…” He replied, sliding the helmet back on and waited a moment for the HUD to come online. Striding over to the elder of the two, ‘Talamee, at the edge of the carrier. “We will be approaching the meeting point in a rook.” He alerted, fingers flexing some in readiness while seeing the beauty of High Charity drift under him.

“Excellent…” The Zealot replied, jerking his head towards the approaching building, a good several-story building near the cargo quarter. “We’ll land there and goes stealth from there.” ‘Talamee nodded in agreement, silent for a moment before asking the inevitable, “How do Hassiss’ain fight? I’ve never had the displeasure of meeting them in combat.”

That brought some amusement to the Muram blademaster and responded, “We fight hard, fast and dirty. They don’t follow the established honor etiquette than most possess naturally, considering their occupation. The best thing I can say…” He might took his own moment to think on his own unfortunate experiences, “Do not waste a single move.”

The Inquisitor swallowed and nodded before Til grasped on his shoulder tight, “Get ready.” He alarmed, watching the coming roof. Stepping back to the controls on the carrier, he tapped in commands before dashing to the edge and leapt off as he vanished under the light-blending camouflage with his escorts trailing right after, starting to move they down to a major piece of this conspiracy.

[Faclan]

Kael Gel - T'vaoan Champion
This could be an issue...

Glancing over toward the Kigs as a Sangheili voice shouted something Kael just had time to see the plasma rifle impact the very surprised looking Kig-Yar in the head before he was thrown with a little spin. As he slid to a stop a bit of purple blood started to drip out of his now open beak as the other Kigs quickly quieted down. Seems if the law was that eager to display their higher position the Kigs didn't want any part of it. Thankfully a few of them had enough courage or camaraderie to move over to their fallen friend and pick him up as they left, likely heading for some kind of aid. His toes were still twitching so he likely wasn't dead, but it was quite a crack with the plasma rifle.

Kael was sure she could avoid a hit like that if it was coming at her head...but if this Sangheili did take a swing she would gladly return the favor with a wrist blade to the back of the shin...He may think he was superior to her because he was a Sangheili, but she would be oh so happy to show him how wrong he was should the need arise. But she still had a mission to accomplish, and getting into a fight would just complicate matters. But the issue remained that she needed to stay at this door and keep it as clear as possible so Sorsa and Llau could get out.

Putting on a smile Kael crossed her right arm across her chest and bowed slightly to the Sangheili, keeping her wrist blade on her other arm hidden from immediate view with a subtle shift of the arm. No need showing her hand now as she did the best to act a subservient little alien for the Sangheili. "Of course Excellency, I was just making sure this gate was guarded so the cheat could not escape and to make sure no-one leaves until the culprit with the lights is found out." She said, her headset on so Sorsa and Llau would be hearing this, knowing Kael was having a complication as she maintained her position near the door. Kael ready to leap into action if needed despite her calm exterior and beak smile.

Of course it would be tricky if the Sangheili noticed that she was the only T'vaoan here, as all the other Kig-Yar were the standard, or that if she had a Sangheili officer pistol, or that she wasn't in uniform. Things likely about to get very heated by the side door.

(Oooooh nooooes >:3.)

[BetaWülf]

Jiralhanae Captain Garatus the Deathless, Restorer of Tribes, Slayer of Shadowed Imps.

Garatus watched as the tavern goers were treated, many having deep wounds or maiming injuries, how could anyone do this to their own kind? How could anyone do this to anyone, regardless of species? As Garatus watched, he suddenly realized his hands were clenched into fists and the claws had dug in with minor bleeding. Garatus splayed his palms open and wiped the blood off on his thigh fur, before looking up as his Uncle spoke. "I hope so, though the price in lives outweighed the gain in honor this day" Garatus said, a grim and sad look upon his face.

He pulled out his combat knife, taking the razor edged tip and dragging it across his knuckles in a pattern. He slowly carved the Covenant symbols that roughly translated to 'deathless', for that seemed to be what he was for now. Blood dripped lazily from his hands as he draped them over his knees, staring numbly at the floor. When he became Chieftain, he would bring honor to his people, to undo the shame these assassins brought upon them.

Sangheili Major Gjanee Bakee.

Gjanee nodded to Eugine, "It wasn't quite the day out on the town that I had been expecting, but none the less I am glad I could help." Gjanee said, "And you'd find my Clan to be much the same as me for the most part, we do not frown upon our fellow warriors just for being different" he said, momentarily recalling his mountain home and the family he had left behind there.

Gjanee moved to take a seat, his Unggoy companion Fapfap crawling up into the seat next to him. It was a fine day, save for the poor souls involved in the horrendous bar fight. Gjanee hated assassins more than most anything, his own peoples affinity for them disgusted him both in the act itself and the blasphemous contradiction of their honor code. Back stabbing was dishonorable, yet hiring someone else to do it was not? Arrogance and zealous self righteousness plagued his species, no wonder the Bak isolated themselves from their kinsmen.

[Kart]

Minor Phran 'Amasee
Requisitioning Assistance

"Of course Excellency, I was just making sure this gate was guarded so the cheat could not escape and to make sure no-one leaves until the culprit with the lights is found out."

'Excellency?' Phran thought. His armor was very obviously blue, and if anyone had called a Minor an "excellency," with no ulterior motive, they must have been colorblind. But at that moment, Phran could honestly care less.

"I have no concern for the fate of cheats, and your games of chance are meaningless to me. We have all been commanded to apprehend the intruders responsible for the attack on our General. You are a T'vaoan, yes? I require your assistance."

T'vaoans were well-regarded by even the Sangheili as efficient and intelligent warriors, far better than their Kig-Yar cousins. Phran would be glad to have one assisting him.

"Ignore these fools," he said, gesturing at the other Kig-Yar. "and leave them to their quarrels. I am not as efficient at tracking as you most assuredly are. You surely must have heard the disturbance earlier. If there was an intruder, he would have passed near your way. Lead on, and let us see whether you are able to guide me to him."

Some remaining part of Phran reminded him of the demands of common courtesy.

He gave the T'vaoan a short bow. "I am Minor Phran 'Amasee, by the way."

[Faclan]

SSA - Yanme'e Swarm (Survivors).
Upside down perch and overwatch.

(Ultra)
With the wounded being taken care of the Ultra holstered his pistol and finally left her Sangheili perch. Flapping up a bit she was soon hanging from the ceiling, having found purchase in a decorative ring that ran around the roof of the room. Looking down at the others she curled up a little to be in a more comfortable resting position as she hung there. But didn't say much besides sit there and watch; waiting for when she was needed, her soldiers returned successful in warning the city, or of anyone made a move for the Assassin Leader that she was watching with one eye. The other eye watching the Sangheili and Jiralhanae group.


Eugine - Jiralhanae Advisor.
Chin up Youngin'.

Finishing his recording for the days Events Eugine slid the notebook back into his belt pouch as he set his knifed hand on the table beside him, finally letting one of the Huragok look over it. Thankfully he had nearly no feeling in the hand or he would likely be screaming as the blade was slowly removed from the bone and the wound filled with some of the odd gel that the Huragok loved to use. Rather Eugine just grunted occasionally as he replied to Bakee, seeing Garatus do something to his hands out of the corner of his eye.

"Sounds like a proper tribe of warriors, judging based on things other than appearance and ideology - hopefully looking out for good folk who can -aaaagh- do well in a scrap or in building something for the community." He let out a low growl as the knife was finally removed from his hand and the wound quickly stitched up by the Huragoks tentacles as Eugine quickly retrieved the knife. "Mine now, thank you Huragok." Twitching the fingers on his bad hand he grimaced but then just let it lay flat on the table. He did a quick look over the new knife, flicking off his own blood as he turned it over and looked over the hooked blade. It was very good quality, and would serve him well now when he needed it. He set it down on the table beside his bad hand before rolling his shoulders and looking back at the others. Turning to Bakee and Garatus he frowned at Garatus and retrieved his staff from where it was resting. Reaching over with it he carefully maneuvered it around the sleeping Kig-Yar and rested it under Garatus's chin and pushed his head up so it was looking ahead, having just seen what his nephew had written on his knuckles.

"Head up Nephew - leaders don't sit in shame and remorse, remember what you will become tomorrow. Today was horrible yes, but many of us live because of what you did. Keep that in mind so you can continue to lead, to inspire the living and give respect to the fallen."

(Cad still sleepin in the sling, may wake up next post. Also yey new knife for Eugine.)


Kael Gel - T'vaoan Champion.
Cautious leading prep.

The pondering expression on this Minor was starting to worry Kael more and more. He was starting to seem like he would be one who wouldn't leave well enough alone and would just complicate things...and still no word for Sorsa or Llau. Kael would have to try and keep him distracted so those two could run, she could jump the wall if needed once they were gone. Were this any other situation Kael would have loved to just tell this Minor to shove it and leave...as she could do so if she was in her golden armor and even now she could if she wanted to reveal who she was now. But the Minor didn't know it yet, and Kael would want to keep that card hidden for as long as possible.

"Yes, I am T'vaoan," was he blind? But she continued as she gave a salute. "They are forgotten sir, do you have any leads on to where the intruder is?" She still had her mic on, so the others would be hearing this. "I only just arrived at the door and hope you have a location to start searching. Do you think they already escaped the base? They may be trying to hide in the bazaar." She said, hoping to subtly tell the other two operatives that if this Sangheili wanted to try and ruin the plans their set-up room would be a good place to 'meet' him. "Also, shouldn't we make sure this door is guarded?

[BetaWülf]

Jiralhanae Captain Garatus the Deathless, Restorer of Tribes, Slayer of Shadowed Imps.
New title, new man.

Garatus's head slowly rose from looking down at his bleeding knuckles with the pressure from the head of his Uncles staff under the Captains chin. He took the Shamans words in, and knew that he was right. Garatus gently lifted his chin over and around the staffs head before turning to look at his Uncle. "You're right, Uncle, I must look forward to the future. I'll have more lives than just mine to keep after tomorrow, I'll have a Tribe to care for and I cant stoop my head and grieve every time someone dies. I have to stay strong for them, if not for myself too." Garatus said, pressing his bleeding knuckles into his leather bound lower arms to smear the blood, the weakness away. With that blood shed, so was shed his weakness in his own eyes, Garatus the young was gone and only Garatus the Chieftain would remain.

The Huragok made its way to Garatus, patching up his more serious injuries but was denied access to his smaller trivial cuts and bruises. The tentacled creature finally took the hint and wandered off to do its other duties and Garatus sat there still, thinking upon his Tribe that would be formed, the conquering of small unaffiliated villages to assimilate into is own territory and spread his influence in whatever region of Doisac he would settle. He'd want it far from any volcanoes and close to water, forests and fields. The scrublands would be best, bordering the tropical forests. Yes, quite nice if he could force his way in to such an ideal area.

[Faclan]

SSA - Yanme'e Swarm (survivors)
Bug rooster?

(Ultra)
Still perched up above everyone the Ultra didn't see much use in talking right now, as they likely wouldn't care much about what she had to say and she wouldn't care much for them either. But she had been asked to watch the assassin leader and that's what she would do for them. Besides, assassins were crafty, and more may be lurking somewhere around here. So she would keep on a look-out for them as well as the one she could see. But she glanced down at the ground as she extended her legs to be handing down low enough so that she could see outside the medical station at the first hints of a slightly brightening night sky. Balling back up on the ceiling she nodded at the Jiralhanae under her as she spotted a few Huragok waving their tentacles over the badly injured assassin leader.

"First light starting approach." She said simply, keeping an eye on the leader.


Cad - Kig-Yar Major
Finally up.

Still curled up in the sling Cad kicked his foot again and finally started to make some noise as he groaned and slowly rolled around until he was on his back, eyes covered with his hands as he slowly breathed. He lay there for a few more breaths, alcohol laced breath likely not smelling that great to Garatus before he finally removed his hands from his eyes and looked up at Garatus. Beak open as if to say something before he looked around at the sling he was in and just erred a bit. Looking back up at Garatus he tried to say something but coughed again before just going limp as he took a few more breaths before trying to just start simple.

"Do...I want to know...what happened?" He asked quietly, trying not to care he was swaddled up like a babe.


Eugine - Jiralhanae Advisor
Wakey wakey...

Nodding in approval as Garatus accepted his wisdom Eugine took his staff back and gave it a solid tap on the ground as he smiled. "Good lad, it will become second nature to you soon, you're more Chieftain material than you give yourself credit for." Shifting the staff to his bad hand he slipped his new knife into his bandolier and reached up, lightly gripping Bankees shoulder, and pulled himself to his feet. "Thanks - perhaps we can visit your Tribe sometime. The offer is open to you as well to see ours," he said before he started to walk around the medical bay. It was good to see that nearly everyone was getting treated, even the assassian leader, which was good as they had questions that needed answers. Even his nephews little Kig-Yar pet was starting to come around as he kept going. Garatus currently getting healed up.

But he stopped in front of the leader as he saw him start to move his larger wounds were slowly clotting from his own bodies healing and the Huragok's as he just smirked a little at the face as the eyes slowly opened, the ape still bound securely to the trolley as he nodded.

"Wakey wakey young traitor, we have some questions to ask you." Standing back up he gestured for Garatus and Bakee to head over. "The scum is starting to come around, lets have a chat shall we?"

(Hopefully good BetaW.)

[BetaWülf]

Jiralhanae Captain(soon to be Chieftain) Garatus the Deathless, Restorer of Tribes, Slayer of Shadowed Imps.
Are you feeling lucky, punk?

Garatus nodded to his Uncle, he desperately hoped he was right about it becoming second nature as he didn't want to prove a poor Chieftain, especially since crappy Chieftains don't live long. He smiled almost sheepishly at the compliment about him being better Chieftain material than he gives himself credit for. Garatus looked down at Cad as the Kig-yar started to wake, asking a wary question as his eyes adjusted to the light. "Oh, nothing serious Cad. Just had a Pack of Assassins try to murder us is all, everything will be fine" Garatus said jokingly as he removed the Cad filled sling and placed it on a seat of its own since Cad was awake now.

Garatus stood as Eugenius used the odd Sangheili to help him stand, following closely as they went over to Nomad who was just waking. Garatus nodded in agreement with his Uncle as the Elder spoke to the restrained Assassin who was now awake, Garatus squatted down next to him and flexed his fingers causing the knuckles to pop."Perhaps I'll make this easier on you, and I'll start our conversation. Who are you working for, and why did you try to kill me? I think that's a good start, don't you?" Garatus said, the very end of the last question being aimed mostly at Eugenius and also to an extent Cad, the Huragok and the Assassin himself.