Mission Nine - A Hairline Fracture

[David]

//OOC: Thank you all for your patience and time. Its been a real challenge getting out this Mission, But we feel that this time around, Things will be less confusing and more time will be spend engaging in a rich, Free for all environment.



Planet Name: Esperanza II

Sector: Panis Eterni Sector

Planet Write up:

Esperanza II is one of the few, but key agricultural planets that make up the Panis Eterni Sector or "The Eternal Bread Sector". Esperanza's neighboring planets are the aquatic world of Cassandra and it's smaller agricultural brother, Esperanza I. The planet is known for it's relatively flat surface, temperate temperatures,and rich soil. The planet is also home to a sprawling mountain range that gouges down the middle of the planet--which is home to various mining excavations which provide the key material for the UNSC's ship building efforts. The planet and sector is a key resource post that must be defended as they provide the much needed resources that the UNSC desperately needs as the war drags on.

SPOILER: Click to show

Lake Town:

(Map of the Battlefield, Will update as time goes on to reflect losses/wins)

Synopsis:

With the UNSC on the defensive and with very little outer colonies, The inner colonies are now being targeted for destruction by the Covenant Bastards. Esperanza is a resource rich planet that is vital the UNSC war effort, Providing rare raw materials that the UNSC need to keep churning out ships to combat the sharply declining amount of vessels. The Heretic faction has caught wind of the materials on this planet, and on arrival, found it populated with the virulent humans. They decide to kill two birds with one stone, eradicate the humans and take the resources for their own purposes. The Covenant, Tracking Heretic movements, detect the Heretics around the planet and decide to take the Heretics and Humans out while claiming the resources for themselves.

The humans, Or rather, The UNSC, have sent out a distress call to the nearest listening post for immediate help. Admiral Vardy receives the distress signal, and diverts his fleet out to the planet to rescue any remaining population and to drive back the Covenant invasion. It doesn't help that they have an ONI presence as well at the Planet.

And so begins the mission.

.::Opening Posts::.

Opening Heretic Intro
written by: Remnant

Heretic Warlord Revuul ‘Kasai
Cleansing Flame Staging Area

Revuul walked around the camp with ease as his warriors went about their duties. Within the hour he could muster them for another attack, another raid for the supplies they had been running so low on not too long ago. However, there was another matter he needed to attend to first. He approached a nearby terminal that connected to the Heretic’s local battlenet.

He opted to make a holorecording intended for the commander of the Heretic’s Warband in orbit. Within seconds he had the recording live.

“Shipmaster, continue your orbital patrols. Wipe out any Human evacuations, and keep an eye out for reinforcements. Defend our supply ships as they transfer our acquired goods to your warships. Our duties here are almost finished, and the resources coming in have been steady.”

Revuul ended the holorecording there and sent it to the shipmaster. He left the terminal and walked towards the muster point. It was a mostly elegant design, a cylinder stage with a large projector in front of it. Large enough to block out the speaker from the view of the audience. Instead, a scanner on the back of the projector (facing the stage) scanned the speaker and projected them above as a large hologram, large enough for all to see and hear.

Approaching a terminal at the front of the projector, Revuul inputted several commands, the projector powered on. Walking on stage and in front the scanner, bright blue line streaked out and wrapped around his form. Mere seconds later, Revuul’s blue hologram appeared above the projector. Clearing his throat to catch the attention of his underlings, he began to speak.

“Brothers and sisters, I am pleased with our work thus far. We have gathered many needed resources, and are in the process of acquiring more.” His voice boomed. “I am ordering a strike on the nearest Human settlement, so that we may continue our prosperous income of supplies. Bring the wrath of the Cleansing Flame upon the mewling parasites, and leave no stone unturned.”

The hologram cut out, and immediately activity in the camp surged. The force was being mustered, and soon the Humans would have another crisis on their hands.




Opening UNSC Navy Intro
written by: David

"Make ready to generate a randomized exit as per the Cole protocol." Vardy ordered. It had been two weeks of boring patrol around a system that had nothing to offer. The only reason he was here is that HIGHCOM had ordered him here on 'Light' duty to get him to relax after a particularly heated argument with Admiral McInroy.

"Laid in and ready," replied Kim.

"Admiral," Commander Paris interrupted. "Receiving telemetry and information from UNSC Listening Post Omega 13. Sounds important."

"Belay my order Lieutenant." Vardy ordered. "What've they got?"

"Sam, Play audio." Paris ordered.

"Playing now," Replied Sam, David's shipboard Smart A.I.

For a few seconds, all there was was static and hisses until a voice finally resolved through the noise. It sounded strained and shaken and unmistakably afraid.

"To any and all UNSC forces, Heed and stand to, I am declaring general emergency codes: Bloody Arrow and Bandersnatch! We need immediate reinforcements. Message repeats!"

Then underneath, Sam had put the following:

Alert: Possible Covenant Vectors

Frowning, David went over to the holographic table that served as a visual strategic interface as well as the primary Holo-imaging tank. "What do we have in that system?"

Holding out his hand, Sam showed a picture of a planet highlighted in Red. "They are known for their unusually rich deposits of rare materials, Primarily Tungsten-Carbide.

"So its a mining colony." Admiral Vardy muttered. Was it worth sending in a fleet to defend a relatively small colony that was on the outer frontier? He knew that every life mattered. But how much lives did he need to spend without making the cost too high.

"If I may point out sir," Paris said, Looking at the data. "The planet is only one of a few colonies left that are providing the UNSC with the materials we need."

Looking at Paris, Vardy made a decision. "Get Fleetcom on the line, Rally the fleet and have them Meet at the Co-ordinates that Sam will provide." David said as he looked at Sam, who nodded.

"Rally the marines stationed on this ship as well as the others, We'll likely be deploying a ground op. Make sure we transfer whatever supplies needed and then we will be making the jump together. Lets go to work."




Opening Covenant Navy Intro
written by: Huka


Field Marshal Til Je’at Ze’at ‘Muramai
Aboard Covenant Fleet Flagship, CCS-class battlecruiser Righteous Monsoon
Slipspace route for Emergency Beacon

“Any news from our repented?” The Reticent Zealot questioned to his intelligence broker as they marched towards the bridge. The Fleet Security Information Seeker jerked his head in the negative, “Nay, Honored Marshal. Not since his relay of the beacon’s last activation. We can only pray that the Heretics haven’t moved from their position.” Probability. After rotations of having faith of the unquestionable Gods and the spirits of his Ancestors, Til was starting to become wary of Probability in these solacing times.

“It is the best we can do, at the least we’ve found a new planet ripe of conquest.” The Zealot says, instinctively coming to a momentary halt before the central information center’s primary entry. The two officers keeping post made protocol checks on both - classified for all but name and official identity of course. Both affiliated of the High Council’s powers, the officers jerked in natural recoil to such powerful relations and moved back in proper salute.

Stepping into the calm, almost oceanic, tranquility of the Task Force Commander’s heart of authority. Bridge officers were working systemically to their duties, the position of security was at momentary ease but Til would see the boiling savagery in their postures, and sitting in his command chair, Shipmaster Sanj ‘Aquiree was stroking at his recycling filters in pondering at the star map presented before him.

The temporarily ‘dismissed’ Field Marshal took a quick glimpse to recognize it to be the system they were heading to. “Anything of note, Task Commander?” He inquired, breaking Sanj’s thoughts and encourage the lesser officer of duty and religious power to rise from his seat. His blue-trimmed cape mantled of spiny fur at the shoulders fell to the floor and swished with almost rivaling grace as Muram silk. “The system consist of three asteroid belts and two planets with sizable multitudes of rings. I can only imagine if the human scum has some refuge in their safety like Kig-yar, if our experiences remain truth.” The naval commander’s voice gurgled with the bubbling of his respirator, the audio filters saving the listeners of the true intensity of Aquir dialect.

“It is a pleasant foresight, but anything of the Human settlement itself?” Til continued out, his own harsh rasp ripped through his black withered mask. “Our probe’s last crystal before our slip reveal the population is becoming anxious to something, it is impossible that they know of our presence already!” Sanj replied with a hint of relatable frustration, knowing the humans will call a defense fleet for their resources and losing good ships -and their crew- is never a pleasantry to have as a leader. Even if it is sparse.

Til and his seeker passed a vague look to another before relaying the next course of action. “Communicate with the rest of the force, prepare them for a possible twin assault of ground and space. Get the prior on the surface as soon as possible while diverging the humans’ defense fleet attention if there is one. We will not fail our Seers in our bestowed quest, will we?”

Sanj stiffened at the thought of failure, “Never, Field Marshal.” The Zealot instinctively grunted as if the very title slap its tiresome weight over his broad shoulders before reminding the Commander, “I am not wholly commanding the forces, this time. Just your tactical advisor and...second power if things become abrupt.”

The Aquir officer bowed his head respectfully, “Nevertheless, Honored Zealot. I will contact my force and summon the Chieftain to the bridge for the briefing.”

“Very good…” Til said, looking about as if to talk in the temporary peace before the battle to come. “I must retire for now. You have your mission, encouragement, and the Gods’ grace, all will be well.” In that, the pair exchanged salutes.

“Prosperity to the Covenant and its holy mission. Stay true to its saintly Path.”




Opening UNSC Marines Intro
Written by: Cabel

[Inner Colonies: System: Panis Eterni Sector: Planet: Esperanza II: Current Location: “Marine Country”, UNSCS Kilimanjaro: 14th Tactical Response Fleet]:

Hatches passed him by as the aging marine passed through the corridor back to his assigned quarters with steam rolling off the hot mug of coffee he’d decided to pick up from the nearest officer’s mess in his left hand, as he held thoughts of both his family back home and even his grandchildren and other thoughts on how best to place the replacements they’d picked up from Reach on their last trip back. While Mark would have preferred to have stopped by the nearest enlisted mess to give his marines a boost of morale and also to let the replacements they’d picked up from reach a chance to see their company CO in the flesh, he hadn’t been an NCO for the last eleven years or so. That part of him, he’d never forget. Passing along through the corridor back to his assigned quarters, he’d take a sip from the mug and mused regardless of the advances in the culinary arts to the marine field kits the coffee never changed. It still tasted like engine grease and it still kept marines alert in the field, but it still tasted like engine grease. It was at least tolerable, though he rarely drank it straight. He’d often pour creamer or sugar into it, which only seemed to lighten the taste of grease.

“Maybe they’ll change the mix…one can only hope,” he’d mutter softly under his breath realizing he’d arrived at the hatch leading to his assigned quarters and submitted his personal key-code before stepping inside. Reaching for a light switch with his free hand, he’d managed to turn the lights on and the door slid closed behind him. He’d only sat back in the chair of his work-desk when a call for the marines to rally filtered over the bulkhead speakers. The call hadn’t entirely been expected, and with the abruptness of it had startled Mark enough to cause the mug of coffee he’d been sipping to spill its contents a little across the standard issued short-sleeved undershirt he’d worn. The stream of choice words, in their profane and vulgar nature, that followed would have caused even an Admiral to reconsider checking in on the aging marine captain. Quickly setting the mug on the desk, he‘d pushed from the chair and went to the private head issued to each officer‘s quarters to toss the now soiled garment in a hamper to be washed later and to make sure his chest hadn‘t been burned in the process. Finding his chest hadn‘t been burned save for a little bit of redness, Mark patted down the area with some cool water before drying it and grabbed a new undershirt before slipping on his duty jacket.

He‘d go through a well-practiced ritual of making sure every latch had been in place, every buckle of the BDUs to the ballistics plates to his personal hard chrome-plated M6B sidearm complete with a few spare magazines including one locked in place in the weapon itself with the safety on and a standard-issued field KABAR placed in its sheath. Checking the field pack with its contents thoroughly including the camel-bladder of water, he‘d inspect each of the contents thoroughly before securing the field pack. Sliding the M6B into its holster, he‘d grab the CH52 helmet before sliding it on and stepped out of his quarters. Locking the door behind him, Mark turned and headed down towards the compartment as Echo Company’s rally point. Along the way, he’d insure the commissioned officers and NCO’s of his company had heard the call and he‘d also retrieve an MA5C with several spare magazines to grenades to other equipment from one of many armories along that deck.

“Echo Actual to all Echo Call-Signs, grab your gear. Field deployment. Double-time it, Marines. I don‘t want to be the first one there. Get your butts in motion. Report to your platoon commanders when you report at the Rally Compartment,” Captain Mark Seamus “Spade“ Sorelson issued, having switched on the Echo Company-wide frequency in his helmet as he made his way towards the designated compartment with the MA5C strapped securely to his ballistics chest plate.





Opening ONI Intro
Written by: Llau

LT. CMDR Moretti, Michelangelo N.
ONI Tactical Field Officer
Aboard Prowler Silent Sanguine
Inner Colonies // Panis Eterni System // Esperanza II's Orbit
2551

Section Three's Deputy Director gave the Lieutenant Commander quite the unexpected surprise when he was given this assignment. A surprise of being in command of his own ship. Was he happy about it? Not really, since it was lacking excitement he would normally have on an operation. He didn't particularly care about commanding a ship and an entire crew. Of course, he couldn't exactly say no, but he did train at the OCS, like his father, before joining ONI. At least a Prowler was more interesting than a regular UNSC ship. He just couldn't stand how boring observations in space can be. I'd much rather have my feet on the ground to do it, he thought with a disappointed and annoyed expression.

Moretti stood in attention in the bridge of the Prowler with his hands clasped behind his back, while he gazed intently out the viewing window down at the planet below. While the crew were quietly working at their stations, he listened to the ship's smart AI, Anansi, as she gave him a full report on what was happening below. Anansi had appeared on the pedestal moments ago, her form was of a black mist – creepy to some, but he thought it was an interesting form an AI would choose from. She was cold, calm, calculating, and always serious. She was a...perfect match to work along side him really these days, as he was certainly those things as well. Probably why they gave him this ship for the assignment. Anansi, a name taken from African folklore. A name of a trickster god and a weaver of lies...rather fitting.

The Lieutenant Commander peered over at her. “Anansi, status report.”

She spoke, with a soothing voice, “Yes, Lieutenant Commander,” she continued, “The former Covenant forces have taken the bait, and have been located planet-side, as predicted.”

Moretti smiled a little, turning around to face the holo-table in the middle of the bridge to peer down at the digitized planet and the location that was marked of where the Heretics were currently at. “Good,” he then asked, “Have our xeno-experts learn anything that these aliens brought with them yet? Weapons? Armor? Other equipment?”

“So far, these Heretics are using older, out-dated Covenant technology.”

“But still effective...” he said.

“Of course.”

He nodded, looking down as he studied the planet they were orbiting. No one outside of ONI knew they were there, and he would like to keep it that way. “While the experts continue to find out more information, I would like for you to help Communication to break into Heretic comms,” he ordered. “More information we can obtain, the better.”

“Yes, sir,”

“And I see we don't need to bother with contacting the UNSC ships to wipe out these Heretics when we are done with them...” He grinned a bit. “Maybe I'll send the Esperanza Two's Government a 'thank you' card for being a big help, and not telling their people to stay calm, and don't panic, while they themselves have their thumbs up their asses.” He shook his head in amusement.

“Yes...the UNSC forces are currently on their way to aid this planet...we will be done before they arrive, sir,” Anansi replied, ignoring the rest of what he said to her.

Her form suddenly glowed a light blue color, but briefly. “Lieutenant Commander,” the AI went on, but still calm even though she was in an alert state. “Long-range scans have picked up incoming Covenant signals.”

“The Covenant, huh?” He frowned a bit at that. “Well, now this is going to make this operation a lot more interesting than it has been.” He sighed, crossing his arms in front of his chest after turning around to look out the windows again. “They must be for these Heretics...it's going to be a three-way fight once the UNSC arrives.” As an after thought, he included, "Also, I'm sure we will soon see what the Insurrectionists who are reportedly down there will do, but I'm pretty sure they will use the war to their advantage and make things worse for both sides."

"Perhaps, we could use their chaos of civil unrest to our advantage as well," Anansi suggested, almost gleefully.

"Hmm," Moretti turned around somewhat to face her; amused. "I guess we will see what happens then...."




Opening Covenant Ground Post
Written By Faclan

Kael Gel; T'vaoan Champion and Sect Leader
Covenant Vessel Righteous Monsoon - in the hanger
Rallying the Troops.

The future Commodore was feeling on top of the world now. Well she was going to be soon when the small Covenant fleet dropped out of Slip Space. Over the Human food planet that some foolish Heretics were trying to cease for their own. To feed their fight against the Covenant. Really Kael had no problem with them as them wanting to separate from the Great Journey and all that sludge that the San 'Shyuum droned that them was something she wanted quite often. But she had been given a rare opportunity of her species to lead an entire Sect and was back in the Covenant military now after her 'family vacation' so she had to nod and play along for now.

Besides, she mused as she hopped up onto a platform where she would address the Sect, Heretics meant older stuff the Sangheili wouldn't care about and it was unlikely all of it would be destroyed. All she would need to do was send the coordinates to some Scavenger ships and the Kig-Yar could come out of this more ahead than normal. Flanked by her three Commandos Kael approached the speaking platform. It was odd to be sure looking down at Sangheili and Jiralhanae but it was the position she had been given for this briefing, and she would gladly accept the challenge to get those two thick headed races under her command for this Operation. The Champions new shiny armor and helmet both on as she addressed the mobilized troops.

"Warriors of the Covenant and combatants of the cause!" The quiet voices that had still been talking after Kael stepped up quieted down. "We travel toward conquest and battle, and this will be a special extermination!" A few cheers from the Kig-Yar section of the Sect. "Of Heretics!" Some more cheers, but as Kael had suspected word of what the mission was had already got out as a lot of the higher ranked Sangheili didn't seem impressed. Ah well such is the life of a social military, or just the urge to tell secrets. "They have tried to seize a planet for themselves, a Human one. One of few defenses like the cowards they are. Not even trying for a military target just targeting the weak farmers and producers of the Humans." A few murmurs from the Jiralhanae now, who seemed to think it dishonorable for farmers to be targeted. Even the Unggoy seemed displeased at that. "They attempt to swoop in quickly, slaughter and pillage and then escape with their supplies to gather and tempt more brave warriors to their side. But we won't let them have a chance!" Most of the troops seemed to be with her, but the Sangheili seemed to be the least into it so far. The T'vaoan leaning over the small lectern as she continued, needed to get all the troops riled up for this. "The farmland and scrubland of the planet shall be nurtured with the blood of the Heretic scum - ran down by Chopper, Ghost, and Wraith assault!" The Jiralhanae we're really into it now since they would get to use their favorite toys and not have to trundle along.

It was time to pull out the piece of information she knew would get the Jellies into it.

"And their leader?! None other than the Sangheilious terrorist, traitor, and thief Revuul 'Kasai! Poisonous Murderer of Keeps, warriors, and defiler of Temples and Traditions!" That got the Sangheili interested, some for the honor that would be gained in taking that ones head, some for exacting vengeance on the children and adults lost to his venom, and others to the bounty that would be there to claim.

Kael flicking her wrists as her Gel blades flipped out before raising them high over her head, beak upturned as she finished the briefing and pep talk. "Gather your weapons, ready yourselves, and prepare for conquest! The Heretics shall be cleansed from this planet and the glory all yours!" The assembled Covenant roared in response and raised their arms or weapons if they had them, some Sangheili even igniting blades which was touching to say the least that they seemed to trust Kael. But after the large cheer had died down they started to file out of the hanger toward their sections of the ship to prepare. Kael watching them go as she spoke quietly to her trusted Commandos behind her. "Send messages to the leaders of each group, inform them that we will likely have the Human army to contend with down there as well. But if we land properly we will be able to sandwich the Heretics between us and kill them quickly before routing the Humans on the planet before wiping them out too." Her Commandos nodded and began to type out the further orders as Kael retracted her blades and left the small platform.

It had been a good two years for the Commodore-in-name just not practice. Her Mama was getting old but still had some more years of leading before Kael would return to the Gel Keep to lead her clan. The meeting with Zaat had gone much better than Kael had suspected and Roh had even been found. The Gel family was looking stronger than ever now, and that made Kael happier than she had ever been before.

But it was time for slaughter now, enjoyment of what Aecor had been benevolent enough to provide for Kael would come later. Kael rolling her shoulders as she went to finish suiting up for the battle.

[SPARTAN-A120]

Corporal Fredrick Mitchell
120th MEU, ECo./2/15, 1PLT-2nd Squad, Fireteam Bravo
Aboard UNSCS Iowa, Armory
Enroute to Esperanza II, Panis Eterni System, 2551
"Battle Rattle"
(Tag: Guardian Cat of Yappa's )

“Tornado Actual to all Tornado Call-Signs, grab your gear. Field deployment. Double-time it, Marines. I don‘t want to be the first one there. Get your butts in motion. Report to your platoon commanders when you report at the Rally Compartment,” Corporal Mitchell heard the rough, drill instructor voice over his headset. The voice of Captain Sorelson, who's voice never failed to get a Marine's blood pumping like he was about to get a chewing of a lifetime.

The young Marine shot up from his seat which was actually an ammo crate and pointed his index and middle fingers of his left hand while making a circle in the air which was the hand signal for “Regroup.”

“Bravo Team, on me. We got orders to mobilize and report to our El-Tees,” Mitchell said to his fireteam.

“We’re mobilizing?” Private First Class McMillan asked.

“Yeah, McMillan. Get your shit and move it,” Mitchell replied.

The fireteam leader put on his backpack and grabbed his BR55HB that was leaning on the crate that he was sitting on. After attaching the service rifle to his single-point sling, he made sure his team was also ready before they made thier way from the ship’s armory to the Rally Compartment. When they left the armory, they got into a single file formation and jogged to their destination.

Mitchell was trying to look for his platoon sergeant, Staff Sergeant Fields, their squad leader, or their platoon commander, but couldn’t find them along the way. There was a sea of Marines and Navy personnel moving about in the hallways and majority of the group were also heading to the Rally. When he couldn’t find Fields, he keyed his radio on the Squad frequency and tried to get a hold of his platoon sergeant

“Staff Sergeant Fields,” Mitchell said. “This is Bravo Team. We’re Oscar Mike to Rally, over.”

---

Gunnery Sergeant Michael J. Kim
120th MEU, 49th Recon Platoon, Sniper Team Dagger 1
Aboard UNSCS Iowa, Hangars
Enroute to Esperanza II, Panis Eterni System, 2551


Gunnery Sergeant Michael Kim was ready and alert when his Commanding Officer commanded all personnel to meet at the Rally Compartment. He was listening closely to the orders while the stock of his SRS99 Sniper Rifle was resting on the floor with his left hand holding onto its fore grip to prevent it from falling. He got up from the metal seat after the orders were finished and gave a nod to his spotter, Sergeant Campbell.

Campbell returned the nod and got up from his own metal seat after racking the charging handle of his rifle a few times to do a quick function check. Both members of the sniper team were wearing half-ghillies that came complete with a hood to cover their heads and it had a color scheme that matched the grass and dirt terrain of the AO within Esperanza II. They would modify the ghillies when they were ground side to further enhance the ghillie’s camouflage.

Dagger One was one of the few members that had made it to the Rally Compartment first and could hear the screams of NCOs and COs coming from down the halls and throughout the ship.

“Well, I guess we get to choose our seat,” he said aloud.

[Deleted]

Private JC Torngate
153rd ODST company, 42nd Shock Troops Battalion
UNSCS Iowa
ODST Quarters

JC was getting some much-needed racktime. He'd worked himself ragged on the simulators, and had been down on the range more than was good for him. He'd barely dozed off after grabbing some food in the mess when he got shook awake by the smiling face of Charles Kingstrup, one of his fellow squadmates.

"Come ON newblood! Get off your ass!" he said, pulling at JC. JC fought him off, before Charles shoved him off his bed and JC fell with a solid thunk on the deck below. Angel Company, the ODST's regimen, hadn't gotten a call to duty stations, but they knew something was up. Charles dragged JC to his feet by his shoulder, shoving his helmet into JC's arms. "Vest up. There's something going down."

JC responded. "Alright, alright keep your damn pants on. I'm up." he said, as he gathered his armor and began strapping it to himself. He started with his boots and legs, suiting up and snapping his armor locks with a solid snapping sound of buckles and latches.

He gathered his gear after suiting up everything from his legs to his neck. He walked out with Charles, the man shoving him forward through the sea of personnel.

They stopped in a seldom-used causeway near the Armory. The rest of the squad, LCpl Willow Sky, PFC Alex Rodriguez, and now PFC Charles Kingstrup. They hadn't gotten any call to gear up, so they couldn't enter the armory and gather their weapons and ammo, as they had checked them in to the armorer's office for some basic maintenance earlier that day. There they waited, the hustle and bustle of people going to their ready stations.

[Shiloh]

1st Lt Rolland Knight
120th MEU, 49th Reconnaissance Platoon
Aboard UNSCS Kilimanjaro, Armory
Enroute to Esperanza II, Panis Eterni System, 2551

Rolland glanced out the narrow slot of a window as he went over gear checks with Sousa, his gunny. Between training exercises and time in the field, it was something they'd done countless times before: mags full? Weapons clean? All the essentials and only the essentials loaded into your kit? Rolland mused about this silently as he slid the massive bullets of an SRS99 into one of his spare magazines.

What Rolland hadn’t done countless times with his gunny, however, was prepare for an actual battle with the Covenant. It had certainly been occurring with greater frequency over the past couple of years, but he could still remember every single time they loaded themselves in the chamber.

“Think this’ll be as rough as Sigma, Gunny?” Rolland wondered out loud as he packed away the loaded mag on his vest.

“Not a chance,” Sousa replied without looking up from his own rifle. “Sigma was all urban. Or, at least, our AO was. But a mining colony? Sounds like long distance, which is good for us.”

“Yeah, you’re right,” Rolland tried not to think about the jackal marksmen who he’d run into one too many times for comfort. He and Sousa finished up the last of their checks, and Rolland slung his rifle over his shoulder before proceeding out of the armory.

“Let’s show these bastards what the UNSC is made of,” he growled, and he and the older Marine walked towards the hangar.

[Faclan]

Kael Gel - T'vaoan Champion and Sect Leader
Covenant landing craft - en route
Here we begin.

Shaking around a little as the landing craft split the atmosphere of the farming planet Kael wished she could be surprised that the Human military had showed up. It was likely they were already on their way once the Herectics landed - probably didn't even know they were a different group of aliens since all aliens we're the same to those Flat Faces. But it mattered now. The open field battle that would soon be upon them all would be hard fought for them. Their bases and vehicles took longer to get up and running compared to the Covenant and they would have to waste time getting the remaining Humans that the Heretics didn't cleanse off the planet. They would also be slowed down by the Heretics but Kael had a feeling that they would be more focused on trying to run.

Thats what they seemed to do most times if the Sangheili showed up to shoot plasma at them.

This battle was going to be decided early on though, Kael thought to herself. It would depend who could get the harassing vehicles out first to slow down the enemy enough before the heavy ordinance up.

"Champion - the first wave has nearly arrived." Tal spoke up from beside her which just cause Kael to nod.

"Good," and with a click on the side of her helmet, where a small communications antenna was stationed so she could more easily speak with the entire sect, she spoke again. "We have nearly landed, we need to work fast and establish a defensive perimeter strong enough to stop a weak offensive from the Humans or the Herectics or animals. If we are broken now we will be stranded here with no support. Do not dally. Once we are established the fun stuff can be dropped and then the cleansing shall commence."

Turning off her radio Kael nodded at the others in the lead landing craft. Mostly just a random assortment of soldiers who had been selected or volunteered to go down in the first wave. A few Huragok on this initial wave too as well as basic base building and shielding so they could get a landing spot secure and ready.

Kael on the whole wasn't terribly looking forward to this even though she didn't show it to the Sect. While being given this much command was nearly unprecedented for a Kig-Yar she was now a Commander. Which meant that she would be hanging back at the base and not actually engaging in combat. But she would enjoy watching her Entourage and Sect sweeping the Humans aside on the holo tables very much so. And when the Revuul was found it would be easy to gather a team and hunt him down. Drag him back to the higher ups to be made an example and get paid handsomely for that Bounty.

[blackshot]

ODST Private Jonah Hauser
153rd ODST Company
ESPERANZA-II ORBIT, PANIS ETERNI SYSTEM
UNSCS Iowa
Fully Charged

Private Jonah Hauser walked along the corridor of the ship, gazing at the view outside through the unbreakable glass as he thought about the horrors of all that he have gone through. His last mission is just like going through a needle's hole, being pitted in a glassed planet against the Covenant. He was glad that he survived the fight even if the chances are below the odds.

He derailed his train of thoughts as he continued walking. Perhaps an hour in the firing range would free him from his mind. He thought of taking a leave after this mission but he wasn't sure if his superiors would allow him to do so.

After a few minutes, he arrived at the firing range. He walked inside, approaching the counter. After a second of conversation, the personnel at the counter slid an M6D pistol and a magazine. He picked up the weapon and slid the mag on the loader with a click!

He gets in to position and took aim at the target in front of him. The target was positioned within his firing range. He fired a shot and hit it on the center.

He fired the second shot and a third one. Suddenly, he remembered the Covies and Innies he fought before. He fired rapidly at the target, remembering his enemies. His anger and frustration in his life flashed in his mind. He wasn't aware of his aim, most of his bullets were missing the target.

"Marine," A voice called.

He kept on firing and firing, not even hearing the one who called him.

"Marine!"

BANG! BANG!

"Hey, TROOPER!"

Soon, his pistol clicked empty. He spun around and spotted the owner of the voice.

He raised his left hand and saluted at him upon seeing the rank on his uniform which was obviously higher than him.

"You forgot to wear your headphone."

Jonah let out a laugh and said, "Oh, silly me." He slid the headphone on his ears and reloaded his gun.

The officer stood beside him, picked up a gun and loaded it. He slid the headphone on his head and began firing.

After an hour, Jonah thought that this wasn't even making him feel better so he put his gun and headphone down. Maybe a vacation would definitely do him good instead.

He left the area and walked away.

[Huka]

Creche Commander Orna Il ‘Taghree
Aboard Sect Commander Kael Gel’s Phantom, en route to Covenant staging location
Human Colony Esperanza II, Fringe of Human Controlled Space

“New world found, Demand of the Empire sewed. We fly and march now. To victory, we must go.” Orna drolled in singing hum as he marched along his attached lances to guard and obey the Gel Championess by the Field Marshal’s command. He has long heard about their temporary disgruntled relationships rotations ago, but past grudges had no place on the battlefield for Sangheili. It was the duty of continuing the Covenant’s constant march for Salvation under the San’Shyuum wisdom as it always has been. No matter how much the unbelievers grumbled and shrieked.

Dressed in his battle-scarred combat harness, the thoracic cage and pauldrons replaced of Iron Sect’s heavy standards, Orna looked somewhat larger than he actually was and the helmet provided the needed presence to keep the enemy off his warriors. Tenderly, the Ultra checked on the Unggoy support with their respiratory systems and weapons. The few Sangheili and a couple Jiralhanae in tow, they were equal to his care, and finally the greater majority of the Sect Commander’s fellow mercenaries.

“All are accounted for, Sect Commander.”

Kahnu Bond Brothers
Aboard Phantom Dropship Te’s Cry, en route to Covenant staging location
Human Colony Esperanza II, Fringe of Human Controlled Space

The dim illumination of the Phantom’s internal light reflected off the shaped husks of their body-armor, the great titans of war silent and absorbed in wide-sensed meditation. Their support were just as quiet, a quarter-creche of Sangheili ground-borne rangers enough to fit in the troop bay orderly. Twelve minors and three Majors, trained under the Lekgolo Meditations and marked as students to the Cosmic Song. It was a recent adaption for the Brothers as a channel and optimization tactic for the mates’ councils before battles.

The vibrations of the pulsating eels caressed and resonated off the walls and bodies. They could feel the steady heartbeats of their chosen soldiers. They could feel the repulsors of the Phantom and fellow ships around them. The moving cords of soldiers outside their transport, trading comforting words and small stories to pass the time. The moving arms of their world to their twinned centers, like this galaxy and its burning heart.

The masses under the idle harnesses squirmed and eased under flight anxiety. Soon.

[BetaWülf]

Jiralhanae War Chieftain Garatus the Deathless, Restorer of Tribes, Slayer of Shadowed Imps, Butcher, Burner of Demons.
Arriving at the Covenant Staging Area.
For the Slaughter

Garatus sat in the back of his personal Phantom, sharpening his hunting knife as the vessel rocked back and forth in the air. He rested lightly on a small throne, carved stone and wood intertwined into a crude chair with pelts draped over the the seat and back of it.

Garatus himself was adorned in the gilded steel of a War Chieftain, having slain his predecessor in personal combat, Garatus rose in power and so too did his Tribe rise into a Clan. His armor was of Bloodstone design and aesthetics, but was still of Covenant making. His face was largely covered in red and blue war paint, streaked vertically down from his hairline to his jaw.

While Garatus certainly stood out in the Phantom, he was by no means alone. Surrounding him were his most trusted of Clansmen, his personal Body Guards. While they totaled only six in number, they were a force to be reckoned with nonetheless. Each one was expertly trained, fierce, loyal, cunning, and handpicked by Garatus himself.

"War Chieftain, we draw near to the encampment" said Vorokus, one of Garatus's Body Guards.

"Excellent, announce us to them" Garatus said as he sheathed his knife in the top of his right greave. Vorokus bowed his head before going to comply.

"War horns! War Drums!" Vorokus roared out harshly to the other Jiralhanae. Two of the other Body Guards, Focius and Demarus, took hold of two large curling horns and blew into them with as much force as they could muster.

A mighty blast emanated from the horns before petering out into a loud low warbling, which was soon mimicked by the other Jiralhanae held Phantoms in tow. Soon after the horns started bellowing, war drums joined in and as the Phantoms drew closer to the ground the very earth began to shake.

Garatus himself was lowered from the the Phantom via the gravity lift, while his Body Guards piled out the sides of the vessel. As Garatus and his guardsmen started to march into the encampment the rest of the Jiralhanae soldiers began to unload in great numbers, more so now than in years past. With the War Chieftain's arrival known to all within earshot, the war horns slowly died down aside from those directing troops, and the War drums continued for the enjoyment of the Jiralhanae Warriors who found its beat invigorating.

Bannermen waved the Bloodstone flag and Soldiers began bringing down equipment and supplies, Garatus himself awaiting the arrival of the T'vaoan Champion Kael Gel. Garatus stood with arms crossed and hammer standing on its head at his side, his Body Guards spread out around him and his Soldiers spreading like wildfire throughout the Covenant Staging area to compete with the other species for duties. It was Garatus's belief that anything another species could do, a Jiralhanae could do it twice as well in half the time.

"And now we wait" Garatus said "After I speak with Kael we shall hunt these Heretics down to the last man" he said with a growl rolling in with his words. He was eager to prove himself to his Clan and the Covenant as a whole. A War Chieftain was an instrument of the Covenant that would be best to not prove dull, or else be discarded for a sharper alternative. Garatus however, would seek to prove how honed a blade he really was.

[blackshot]

ODST Private Jonah Hauser
153rd ODST Company
ESPERANZA-II ORBIT, PANIS ETERNI SYSTEM
Armory, UNSCS Iowa
Locked and Loaded

"Listen up, Marines." An ODST Sergeant says as Jonah lined up with the other ODSTs inside the Armory. "We received a distress call from Esperanza II, an agricultural planet not far from here. The Covies were detected in the orbits of the planet and we were called in to help. The mission was simple, rescue any survivors on the planet, and if it's possible, drive the entire Covenant Fleet away from the planet. Gear up and meet me at the hangar."

"Yes, sir!" They all answered in chorus.

Jonah approached his locker. There, he found his suit of armor cramped in the small confines of he locker. He put on his armor, his elbow guards, knee guards and the rest. The others around him were busy doing the same. As soon as he as protected from head to toe, he put on his helmet. The very first thing he see inside his headgear was the HUD on the screen.

He walked over to the weapons rack and grabbed an Assault Rifle. The ammo count instantly appeared on the display link. Soon, he grabbed some grenades and an M6D pistol which prompts the HUD to update itself. He left the area along with the others and followed them to the hangar.

[Faclan]

Kael Gel - T'vaoan Champion and Sect Leader
Covenant staging area
3/10 horn concert.

Looking over some initial maps of the areas on a handheld screen Kael hummed quietly to herself as she drafted up some basic initial movements of troops once the base was set up. She didn't dwell on the possibility that it wouldn't be set up. The Herectis and Humans were often surprising in their tactics but she doubted they would put themselves at risk to try and eliminate the Covenant. Besides, if for some reason they were attacked the Covenant had many other ships that could send down more equipment and troops.

Glancing up from the plan she nodded at Sangheili 'Taghree in the phantom with her, nice to finally be on the same level as the Sangheili, and managed to speak up before she was nearly drowned out by horns and drums. "Good to hear and glad to have you here 'Taghree - good to know the experienced are here to lead the battles." It would be then that the horns and drums of the other Sect Commander thundered over the sky. Making Kael just roll her eyes a bit which was thankfully hidden under her helmet. Garatus sure knew how to make an entrance and announce that he was the current Armchair General's favorite. But as long as he delivered results she was fine with his boasting.

Hopefully the Herectics and Humans heard that, would do a good job making them worried.

But finally they all touched down, Kael wondering if her favorite Murmillo Roh had volunteered to come down first, Kael dropping down first with her Commandos in tow and then moving aside to let the Sangheili disembark. Turning her head around to be facing the recently departed 'Taghree she nodded before starting to walk off. "I need to speak with Garatus about his initial plans, ensure the base set up goes smoothly if you would." Looking back forward Kael and her green armored Commandos jogged off toward the writhing mass of fur and rage that was the Jiralhanae drop ships and their main landing zone. Clustered around the Chief obviously but the four T'vaoan jumped over groups when needed so they didn't disrupt the base building.

It wasn't hard to spot Garatus once they were closer and when finally near the Chief Kael just gave a little salute - they were very close to the same rank but best to be on the good side of the current favorite.

"Chief Garatus, what are your initial deployment ideas once we get the base set up? Together I am sure we can come up with one that will wipe out the majority of the threats to us swiftly."

(Will bring in I think Cad and Eugine next post after the Commanders have a little meeting.)

[Huka]

Creche Commander Orna Il ‘Taghree
Landing to Covenant Staging Ground

“The experienced to lead the young when they can't learn themselves, Championess.” He agreed, talking through the channel between them and verbally to be heard over the Jiralhanae wardrums. His associated warriors were taking in the song heralding the prodigious War Chief, their musk almost escaped from their pores and the fur not trimmed was standing on end as if electricity passed through. Orna didn’t find any disdain in his Jiralhanae’s tendency to fall to their culture and had no urge to restrain them from taking in the energy. They were his brothers and he theirs.

Sure, it meant fighting without armor and bare-handed with some nasty scars, but it was their way and as the Field Marshal said: There is wisdom in knowing your brothers. Even if they are of supposed lesser caste. We are all of the same Path.

The Phantom made its touch to the ground and opened its pressurized side to allow disembarkation. Planetary light filling the dim illumination in the dropship, Orna’s visor easily filtered and adjusted automatically. Waiting on the Gel Championess and her honor guard, he and his small elite force followed behind. While the Sangheili didn’t have their weapons drawn, the Jiralhanae of the strike lance did. They -like any of their brothers- demanded blood and was eager to spill it with the barbaric brute shots.

When he caught Kael’s gaze and nod, he returned it in turn. “Very well, I will make sure all of our troops are accounted for. I would hate for them to discover any potential traitor in our midsts.” The Ultra said, gesturing his snout towards a pair of incredibly large Mgalekgolo pair lumbering out from their ship. Their imposing presence as Field Marshal Til’s enforcers and usual battle hammers was only enhanced by their small unit of Sangheili rangers. The smaller of the mates slowly turned its six optics at them, 

The smaller of the mates slowly turned its six optics at them, staring and 'blinked' before lumbering off with its much larger bondmate.

[BetaWülf]

Jiralhanae War Chieftain Garatus the Deathless, Restorer of Tribes, Slayer of Shadowed Imps, Butcher, Burner of Demons
Covenant Staging Area
Battle Plans

Garatus watched as Kael disembarked from her Phantom, soon moving to approach him. His Body Guards tensed slightly, but knew that Kael was no enemy, it was but a reflex on their parts. Garatus approved of it honestly, better safe than sorry. While his posture and expression were stoic, Garatus was actually quite pleased to see Kael.

After his rescuing of her son, Kael and Garatus had been on quite good terms; Garatus would even go so far as to consider her a friend. As she neared, Garatus's face spread into a grin. The War Chieftain stepped away from his guards and offered his forearm in friendly embrace.

"It is good to see you again Champion Gel" Garatus began, before returning to his normal dour look. "In all of my days, I have not seen a Human world so well suited for farming. I think it would be best if we deploy our vehicles in a sizeable force to harass our foes before we send out any infantry"

"My Pack and your Entourage could do prodigious work in their cities, if this land has any worth our time" Garatus said with minor disdain at the end of his sentence, he didn't think this world would be worth much in the sense of looting. Something the Jiralhanae and Kig-Yar both enjoyed.

"What are your thoughts on the matter Champion? I would surely like your experience to weigh in on these serious matters" Garatus asked with respect backing his words, he was curious to hear what Kael had to say regardless.


T'vaoan Murmillo Roh Gel
Covenant Staging Area
Deploying

Roh found that he was neither happy nor frightened by this new campaign. It was the same old thing, ride a phantom to the surface, deploy, engage the enemy, ect. But it was at the same time... different.

It had taken him a long to get to the point where he was ready for this, to return to some semblance of his old life. He was by no means better, or would ever truly recover from the heinous tortures he endured at the hands of the Humans; but at least he was to the point where he could serve his Clan in some capacity again.

He soon caught sight of the Champion Kael, and he smiled. It had been a long journey for he and her, to mend the nets of their relationship. But after years of hatred between the two Roh had finally found it in his heart to forgive her. He was surprised how good it felt to be relieved of that burden, to finally have a healthy relationship with his mother.

He jogged over to be near to where Kael was, but respectfully kept his distance while she was consulting with the War Chieftain. While Kael was his mother, he was still a professional and a soldier of the Covenant. He would wait.

He adjusted the positioning of his cuirass, tugging on it with both hands curled inside the neckline just below his throat, but he ended up just keeping his hands resting their. The armor was new and untested by battle, but not as cumbersome as he was expecting. It was much like his armor as a Major, just with the inclusion of pauldrons and a helmet now. He liked the helmet, it hid his facial disfigurement well he thought.

He was at least secure in knowing his mutilation would not deprive him of being loved, even with his face lacking its former handsomeness, his mate Del had still chosen to stay with him. The two even had children now.

[RiddL]

First Lieutenant Alexei -Titan- Krevchenkov
153rd ODST Company (Angel 2 Actual)
ESPERANZA-II ORBIT, PANIS ETERNI SYSTEM
Cocked and rearing to go!

Titan left the armoury fully armoured and ready for some action. He rolled the tenseness out of his muscles and looked down at his leg, which had been injured on a previous mission. He started walking towards the hangar, M6D on his leg and his shotgun on the magnetics across the back of his armour, helmet tucked under his shoulder comfortably, the tally score that he had etched into it at a count of 9.

He walked past marines and technicians alike as they ran back and forth, preparing for the battle ahead as they came closer to the soon-to-be battlefield. Titan paused for a second as he saw a marine say a small prayer, hoping that the battle would not rob him of his life. As Titan continued, he was joined by his squadmate and close friend Sergei, as well as the rest of his squad.

"Are we ready to drop down and save this rock?" Titan asked the three men as they walked through the doors leading to the hangar bay.

"Yes, last thing to do is group up with the others and prepare for drop." Replied Sergei.

"Good, sooner we get this done the better, after all, we don't get paid by the hour." Titan said jokingly as they got to the hangar and waited for the others.

[tento125]

Staff Sergeant Shinji Akiwara
120th MEU, Echo Company, 4th Platoon
Aboard UNSC Iowa
Suit up gentlemen

"Tornado Actual to all Tornado Call-Signs, grab your gear. Field deployment. Double-time it, Marines. I don‘t want to be the first one there. Get your butts in motion. Report to your platoon commanders when you report at the Rally Compartment” The voice of Captain Sorelson can be heard throughout Echo Company's comm channel.

"Staff Sergeant Akiwara?" another voice piqued him. It was the voice of Lieutenant Allen, his new platoon commander. "See to it that the platoon is geared up and ready in 5 mikes. I'll meet you folks at the assembly area then."

"Aye aye sir" Shinji replied as he instantly contacted his squad leaders. He then turned to Sergeant Samuel Smith, whom has been playing cards with Shinji for the past half an hour. "Sam," he started. Both men shared a long history together, going back since boot camp. It got so familiar, that they addressed each other by first name, rather than last "Have your squad geared up. I'll meet you up at the assembly area."

"Sure Shin" Sam replied "Err... what for again?"

"Best guess? We're gonna hit ground-side soon"

"Ahh... ok. So.... picnic time?"

Shinji just smirked and hit Sam in the arm playfully. "Just make sure your squad is battle-ready in five. Lieutenant Allen will be with us shortly after"

"Roger that" Sam said as he headed out the door. "See ya in five"

With nothing else to say, Shinji collected all the cards and put them away, then made his way to the armory.....

[rickrtickr]

Staff Sergeant Malcome Reynolds
153rd ODST Company, ODST Team Delta
ESPERANZA-II ORBIT, PANIS ETERNI SYSTEM
Armory, UNSCS Iowa
Prep for the long fall


"Hey Staff!" Corporal Blake shouted across the Team Comm.

"Don't get jumpy now Blake." Corporal Cagney quipped back; "We haven't even left the bay yet."

"Cut the Chatter." Reynolds Barked, "The line is open Corporal."

"Sir I thought We were getting the heck out of dodge. Why are we going back?" Blake questioned.

"Corporal That question is above your pay-grade, Buck up and lets get this done." Reynolds stated.

The ODSTs had mustered and been set and in their drop pods for several minutes now, and were simply waiting for the drop notification. It surely wouldn't be long now, as the ship had not been very far out-system when the the order came down to high-tail it back to Esperanza II.

While he waited Reynolds triple checked his drop gear and harness, Even though it had been several years since his near catastrophic chute failure the tension he felt before drop never eased.

'That is not necessarily a bad thin though.' Reynolds thought, 'It just means I am still alive.'

Because of the nature of his team being that of a heavy weapons group and all being versed in demolitions they had needed to muster faster than the regular ODSTs groups. Though it seems to be funny to thinks that way about the others as (regular ODSTs) as you have to be a special kind of crazy to do what they do on a regular basis. It would perhaps be more appropriate to think of his team as even more irregular. Who else would want to be fired at a planet from orbit in a metal casket with over 10 pounds of explosives?

As Staff Sergeant Reynolds was thinking about this, the rest of the ODST Company aboard the IOWA filed in and finished prepping their Drop pods and gear. 'Well now with the rest of the company here we must be nearing the drop zone.'

"Alright boys!" Reynolds called over the team comm, "The has come, shove a cork in it and hold on. It is time to go for a ride."

Reynolds Smiled inside his helmet, this is the first time in a long while that his team hasn't dropped straight into a major combat situation, 'This was going to be a walk in the park; well at least that is what he hoped.'

[Faclan]

(BetaWülf does Roh have an Arrestor with his new armor? :3)

Kael Gel - T'vaoan Champion and Sect Leader
Covenant staging area
Sweep and snatch.

"One would hope we have finally had enough of Traitors, 'Tagree." Kael called back as she hopped off, despite the claims of this Legion being some of the best that did seem to be an issue lately. But soon she was in front of the mound of muscle and blade of Garatus, who reached out for her in an embrace.

Being careful as she stepped into Garatus's Guard to take the offered embrace, more so just herself wrapping her arm around Garatus's massive armored forearm, Kael smiled back before stepping back to a better conversation distance. Careful because she didn't want to he accidentally flattened by a backhand, like she had back in the last briefing, not that she was worried he would do it again as at the moment he was one of her strongest allies. In more ways than one.

She would still need to find someway to repay him for rescuing Roh - but she would need something huge to cover that debt.

"Also good to see you Chieftain Bloodstone," at least she thought that was the proper formal greeting, without having to rattle off his many titles, as she thankfully didn't have to look up too much as they spoke to be looking at him.

"I've seen these a few times, normally very undefended and even we Kig-Yar would think twice as to raid a bunch of farmers for their food. Only the most disgusting pirate would try for such easy pickings. Better just to make deals so you still keep the farmers for later. Shows how low these Heretic's will stoop." Such a privateer attitude, but at least she wasn't saying to wipe out defenseless farmers. "But I agree with the vehicles, its rare there is this area of open fields, and we will be able to move much faster than the slow Human tanks, and in this farmland their gun cars may also get stuck in the plowed land."

"As for the cities I don't think they would be much use for us, likely just small places to help support a farm as large as these. The Humans will likely just use them to try and get the farmers off planet. I don't personally have an issue with them and we should keep in mind that our main objective here is the Herectics and Revuul 'Kasais' head. The ships in orbit could likely take out the city and its space elevator from their positions. Leaving us to clean the ground of Heretic's and Humans."

Looking up at the sky for a moment Kael clicked her tongue before looking back at Garatus. "I would send out Chopper and Ghost patrols to see if we can ascertain the Herctic camp, keep a defensive perimeter for the Humans so they don't interfere. I'd wager you and myself could quickly bring 'Kasais' head back with us on the end of your hammer once we find the camp. And once they are dealt with we can either attack the Humans city or leave them - depends on our resources."

She glanced to the side and was very pleased to see Roh there, more happy than ever that they had managed to calm the waters between the two of them and we're ready to work as an effective team. A team not only here on the Battlefield but also on Eayn to make Gel one of the strongest Nests ever seen. It made Kael swell with pride that Roh would be taking over after her, he was good now and would be legendary by the time it was his time - Kael and Zaat would make sure of that. Giving him a little nod before focusing on Garatus, soon it would be time to give out assignments to him and the other Murmillos.

(Gah, need to try and use some more shorter sentences with Kael P: )


Eugenius - Jiralhanae Advisor
Covenant deployment zone
Green thumb?

Grunting as he impacted the hard packed ground of the main landing zone Eugine scooted aside to let the warriors get off and then just took awhile to breath in the air. For once it wasn't full of dust and concrete, or metal, or burning metal. But clear and fresh. Full of plants and plowed earth. Soil nurtured and tilled to grow food for generations. Such a shame the Goddess cursed Heretics were trying to steal it. Rather than put any actual effort into growing it themselves and learning something about themselves.

Grumbling a bit Eugine moved away from the general hub-ub of everyone getting out of the drop ships with weapons and equipment, the deep thumping of vehicles heard every so often too. And found himself a decent rock to stand on. Soon perched near its top with his bad hand shielding his eyes as he held his staff in his other hand. Away from the pheromone soaked air of the initial deployment zone the air over here was even richer with the smell of farmland. It was glorious.

Reminding Eugine of how he found his calling back when he was put on medical leave. Rather than fall into sorrow, rage, and booze he tried to keep himself active. And farming was something he fell into as well as learning about history. Just something so joyful at starting with just some dirt and seeds and working at it to get something out of it that was beautiful. He felt sorry for the farmers here, even though they were Human and some of them were absolutely the Devils for what they had done to his Nephew, farmers were no soldiers. It made the Elder sick but just sigh with resignation that it was a side effect of the war.

Eugine soon distracting himself from his disgust with some note taking as he placed his notebook in his mangled hand, staff resting against his shoulder, and writing about the rolling plains he could see, that were likely soon to be crater filled and full of wreckage and bodies.

[BetaWülf]

Jiralhanae War Chieftain Garatus the Deathless, Restorer of Tribes, Slayer of Shadowed Imps, Butcher, Burner of Demons
Covenant Staging Area
Agreement

Garatus nodded as he listened to Kael, he found it refreshing to be working with a like minded commander. Equal parts tactician, warrior, and leader. Garatus however returned his mind to the present and away from his thoughts of his ally.

"Verily, leave the slaughter of the defenseless to the Sangheili, they always seem to enjoy it...." Garatus said in response to Kael's thoughts on the farmers. He found it unsettling how far the zealotry of his allies could move their blades to such atrocities even in wartime. But then again, the same could be said of his own father.

"Your runners are certainly swifter than mine, but I think my people's sense of smell will be of good use. Tracking a Sangheili is easy enough, but a literally filthy Heretic with no access to proper facilities? Easier prey I know not of" Garatus said with a gruff chuckle.

"I am swayed to think mixed Jiralhanae and Kig-Yar patrols would prove more efficient than solely one or the other, at least in large part" Garatus said "with your leave, I would like to implement such a union of troops, a test if you will" Garatus proposed to Kael, hoping she would think the idea to be a good one.

"Regardless, I will ready my Choppers for the hunt, my Prowlers will stay here and patrol the fringes of our claimed territory to help safeguard our forces from unexpected assaults" Garatus stated, before continuing on to further express his thoughts "I would like to send the Unggoy out to dig trenches however, to further prevent the Humans from interfering with our affairs if the weaklings ever get so emboldened as to attempt a direct attack on our encampment" Garatus concluded. He doubted Kael would care much either way about the Unggoy, given her species' feud with them in years past.

[Faclan]

Kael Gel - T'vaoan Champion and Sect Leader
Covenant staging area
Let the Hunt Begin!

Kael frowned at Garatus agreeing with her about the farmers, though it was kind of hard to see with Garatus being above her head but her posture would show her unhappy mood. "They seem to think they are doing The Gods Work or what needs to be done...but best to leave that topic for another time Chief." Best not to spout Hieratical disgust at the Sangheili when they were supposed to be leading the troops. Kael straightening up a little as Garatus continued laying out suggestions to the plans.

Now she was grinning and leaning forward in anticipation of the plan. It was one she would fully support, show the Jellies and Air-chair generals what these 'lesser' species could do! "I like that idea Garatus; your troops to track and provide muscle and firepower, and mine to be on the general lookout and chase. Likely carry the communications gear as well. Get the best of everything working together," she leaned a little closer and quietly added. "Without the Sangheili interfering." Going back to a normal stance she hummed at the idea of a trench and nodded. "Sounds like a plan, I would suggest making sure we have vehicle patrols set up first to keep the Unggoy safe, no need to put them at unnecessary risk - and best to have everyone in good spirits so we don't have any more uprisings. But we should get these plans launched on this sea of battle!"

Turning to fully look at Roh she beckoned him over, Garatus probably now noticing the odd device he seemed to have strapped over his back as well as the belt attachments he had - small boxes to hold nets and Bolas. "Murmillo Gel - you will be going on a special assignment; We need to find the Heretics camp, its defenses, and location of their leader if possible so we can begin a smash and grab. You will be working with some of Chief Bloodstone's troops and a few of the Entourage as a Hunting Party. To go and find a Herectic to net and interrogate. Do what must be done to get that information and then report back to us. We will be setting up the defense here while you work and you will likely be leaving in some of their vehicles. Take what supplies, troops, and communications gear you need too and keep in touch."

One would likely find it odd that Kael was sending out Roh away from her after he had been captured last time and tortured, but Roh was a warrior and a very well trained one at that. It would be insulting to him and also to Gel if Kael tried to coddle and keep him safe. She was worried to be sure, but also confident in the training that her Nest and herself had given him.

"Soon that Split Face Kasai will feel the strength of we 'lesser' warriors."

[Trooper]

Major Jadarus, avenger of the dead.
Covenant staging area
Settling in...

Jadarus glared into his reflection on the silver blade. His jaw jutting out at it's abnormal angle. His red eyes glared back at him blood filled as they usually were. His brother moved uneasily in the phantom, he wishing he had waited on the ship. Ascenus let out a low growl, causing Jadarus to look up from his weapon. He spotted on of Ascenus' grunts attempting to assist his brother to stay still in the phantom. He let it slide as it was an unspoken rule that he was to not interfere with his minor's transgressions against the grunts of his command. Haydrachus glared out the side of the phantom at the rolling feilds that they flew over.

"Brothers, check that you are combat ready." Ordered the white major from his spot in the back. The war chieftain's horns split the air and Haydrachus pulled out his own horn his signal soon rejoicing with the beat of the war drums. Jadarus rose to his legs and sheathed his blade, crossing it over the identical blade he was wearing. He glared at the Jiralhanea around him, then to the grunts who were checking that their methane tanks were attached properly.

"Once we are on the ground I want everyone to grab Brachus' equipment and move it where ever he directs you." Said the Major as he crossed the paneled floor to his brothers location. He placed his hand on his brothers shoulder, slightly reinforcing him against the rocking phantom. The blacksmith turned and nodded to his brother, but Jadarus knew Ascenus was glaring at him. Jadarus knew the impatient young one wished to go directly into the hunting of heretics. So he might catch the traitor and be promoted. To escape the half-blooded major he served under currently.

"Haydrachus, are you prepared to scout ahead should the Chieftain require it?" Jadarus asked. Haydrachus raise his carbine and nodded, his small file also raising weapons they held.

"Ascenus, are you prepared to command your Unggoy into combat against the heretics?" Jadarus asked finally looking at the glaring minor.

"Of course Major." Ascenus responded in a practiced form. Jadarus rolled his eyes, knowing that he didn't like to agree with Jadarus.

"Then all Jiralhanea, to your marks!" He ordered as the phantom ceased it's movement. The Jiralhanea exploded from either side their armored bodies heavier with the blacksmith's equipment. They fell to the soil slightly sinking in with the weight they bared, but they all burst forward taking the equipment to collect away from the landing zone. Jadarus and Brachus being the last to jump off. The blacksmith was still shaky but his stronger combat-born brother was undaunted by the feat. Brachus stumbled as they began moving to catch up with The group. Soon however Brachus returned to normal and began issuing commands as Jadarus turned to search for the War Chieftain. He spotted him along with his attache of guards standing near the Kig-yar. Jadarus watched but was drawn away by the call of Ascenus. Jadarus moved to assist his minor his eyes wandering back to the the gathering as he walked.

[Huka]

Creche Commander Orna ‘Taghree
Covenant Staging Area
Heralding the Vanguard

Orna left the planning to the chosen commanders of this assault, glancing over his shoulder once to the growing war council. Nothing but Jiralhanae and Kig-yar so far, what is the Field Marshal’s plot to have such a commanding force. A chance perhaps. However, the War Chief never made the Redeeming Vigilance regret its open policies between Sangheili and Jiralhanae, and had a subtle act to have the two species share responsibilities - good and bad - when they could. Perhaps the two could stand side-by-side as brothers in arms.

It was excited and curiosity inducing when Orna hear the stories of the army’s rise to what it is. Its curse, its failings, and victories. Some, he have had the honor of being apart of.

As he watched his troops help the new arrivals marshal, the Ultra passed General Cav Vo'ha  'Olamutee - a heavily armored officer, even for one of his rank - with a respect drop of acknowledging nods as the latter went to the overt commanders of this operation.

“Hail, War Chief and...Champion.” The General of the Iron Discipline greets with the natural bass of his voice rumbling from his hanging mandibles, the result of age and numerous attacks on the armored mouth pieces. Eyes graced off in respect of Jiralhanae culture while keeping a sturdy presence of his own military power around them. As much he respected the orders given, a Sangheili born and trained for command didn’t find it easy to surrender presence to any other but themselves and the Prophets. “My warriors are assembling to position and heavy ghosts mounting, they are yours to command.”

[BetaWülf]

Jiralhanae War Chieftain Garatus the Deathless, Restorer of Tribes, Slayer of Shadowed Imps, Butcher, Burner of Demons
Covenant Staging Area
Power Rising

Garatus watched Kael, noting that she seemed more cautious of the Sangheili than he. He nodded in response to her suggestion to change the topic, but otherwise seemed no more worried or stressed than before. While he had a respect for the Sangheili, he had little in the way of fear for them; he himself had fought and killed many of them in his time and so viewed them as less than threatening in most cases.

"Agreed, I have every intent on my prowlers being operational and on patrol by the time the Unggoy are out there... digging" Garatus said, waving idly at the fields with a backhanded gesture, though he then chuckled at the Champion's quiet comment about the Sangheili not interfering this time. "Verily, Champion" he said with a sly grin.

Garatus looked over as Kael beckoned over one of her soldiers, but Garatus recognized him before he even reached them. It was Roh, son of Kael; the one Garatus had rescued from a wild planet where the Humans had left him to die. He looked better than before, at least. His wounds had healed nicely and he seemed less... feral. Garatus nodded at him politely, but said nothing.

As Kael debriefed her son on his mission, Garatus looked around idly as he waited. He watched his Pack move about, Jiralhanae and Kig-Yar working side by side, Sangheili and Unggoy glaring from the shadows. He scoffed to himself, deflecting their venomous gazes with an utter lack of caring about their opinions.

Garatus turned his gaze to the approaching Sangheili however, the heavy gilded armor he wore demanded a level of respect, for it denoted him to be a General. Garatus nodded his upwards, showing respect from one warrior commander to another. The War Chieftain listened as the General spoke, it was good to hear he would be working with a competent commander this mission.

"Excellent General, I look forward to... utilizing your forces to their full potential" Garatus said, a small undertone of friendly competitiveness in his words.

"I would have you split your force, send half of your Warriors to the fields to combat  the Humans and Heretics, to keep them at bay, and the other half...." Garatus said, but paused for a moment before turning away from the other commanders and gesturing over his shoulder for them to follow him.

Garatus proceeded to enter his War tent, which had only been up and operational for a few minutes thus far. It was a large hide tent, held up by spiked Jiralhanae steel struts. Inside the tent was spacious, a field holo-table taking up the center of the 'room' as it were. On the far side of the holo-table from the tent's opening was Garatus's throne, though the Chieftain made no move to sit as he began manipulating the holo-table's surface.

"Here" Garatus said, pointing to a large Human facility on the map "I took note of this Human construct when we entered the atmosphere, we know not what it is. Only that it is sizable and could house any number of things, but we wont know what until we've captured it" Garatus said, followed with a gesture from the facility on the table to the General "That is where the other half of your force comes in, I wish for them to assault this place if the Humans have already taken it by the time they arrive, if not, occupy it" Garatus said, dismissing the projections from the table as he did so.


T'vaoan Murmillo Roh Gel
Covenant Staging Area
On Assignment

Roh was pleased and all too eager to comply as he was beckoned forward by Kael, he hoped it would a good assignment. As he stopped in front of her, he took his helmet off and held it under one arm to allow her to look at him directly. While his wounds were healed, the scars were quite... monstrous. There was no hiding them, but to be honest it would likely serve him well if he survived long enough to become Commodore. Having survived such a grizzly ordeal, who would want to disagree with him?

Roh stayed silent as he listened to his assignment, for most of it he seemed fine. However, when his mother said 'To go and find a Herectic to net and interrogate. Do what must be done to get that information and then report back to us', he reacted wordlessly.

His feathers ruffled ever so slight, his core tightened, and his right eye twitch if for but a moment. He was ordered to go do to some Sangheili what was done to him. To capture them, torture them, but without the eventual freedom he was lucky as to have. Only death.

"As you command, Champion" Roh said, bowing his head respectfully. Roh was worried Kael would notice his minor behavioral quarks, but at the same time he wasn't sure if she was truly familiar enough with him to known this. After all, they had only been in close contact and on good terms for a short span of time.

He moved to stand beside Kael, but off to one side, quietly placing his helmet back on his head. A grim look spread over his features, but hardened into what might be considered a professional stoicism. Roh would wait until he was assigned a Jiralhanae hunting partner before departing, hopefully he would have time to converse with Kael privately before then.

[Huka]

General Cav vo’ha ‘Olamutee of the Iron Discipline
Covenant Staging Area
Human Agricultural Colony Esperanza II, Classified Inner Human Colonies Sector

On the inference of competition, the Sangheili officer cracked a short chuckle of agreement behind his stoic expression. His small amber eyes had adapt attention to the Jiralhanae as he passed to his intention, giving little on the noticeable glance back. On the War Chieftain’s movement, Cav followed behind with a buzz of expectation as they came to relative solitude. He’ve been a part of the Redeeming Vigilance since its reformation rotations ago, seen this young Jiralhanae commander rise to confidence of his fellows and certainly grabbed his own intrigue to that alien mind more than once. For a traditionalist, the progressive work is noticeable and worthy of his youth.

The General wished many Jiralhanae shared similar work on actually moving to prove themselves to the Sangheili as much as their attempting shoulder-bashing for the San’Shyuum’s favor as they have been doing as of late, encourage less restrictions and antagonism from the much longer-affiliated military arm of the Covenant hierarchy.

However, this truth has been blunt since the conversion of the wild tribes, they have high expectations and ambition in the Covenant, and the Sangheili had little intention of simply letting them take what their people have achieved from a continuous war at the genesis of the empire’s hegemony. The General could only pray as they came to the wartable, that his current commander’s brotherhood was true in his finding power.

“Humans and their damned facilities. Giant inelegant cubes.” Cav commented with a semi-amused growl, resting his armored hands on the edge as he studied the representations, noting the environment in this broader exposure and plotting in a small creche of strategies. “It will be ours either, even if I have to call the ships above to burn a glyph of reclamation around it to do it.” He conclude, pushing him back in standard attention,

[Faclan]

Kael Gel - T'vaoan Champion and Sect Leader
Covenant staging area
We overcome together.

As she was looking directly at Roh as she outlined the plan Kael was able to catch the slight twitches...but it was more so the staring afterwards and the momentary pause that worried her. Somthign was clearly affecting Roh about the order and Kael quickly worked it out; chasing, capturing, and interrogating an 'enemy' would be a touchy subject for Roh...Kael making a mental note to be more careful next time as while Roh was strong it would take him much longer to get over what happened. She was still his Mama afterall and was responsible for him in that sense as well as a Commander. But her expression was thankfully hidden under her helmet and she wasn't able to talk to her son before a Sangheili started to storm over.

Looking at the Sangheili that wandered over to the basic planning table after Roh moved to be beside her Kael was quick to pick out his rank and how he was more so focusing on Garatus. It was confirmed that he didn't seem to be a fan of her after he had a pause before acknowledging Kael as being there. It was annoying to be sure but also made Kael pretty gleeful. The General was clearly uncomfortable with Kael being here in a position equal if not greater than he. And his posture and speaking showed that he was still coming to grips with what was now a reality. It was good to see the proud lizards squirm from time to time.

She didn't mind too much that Garatus was the real top dog here, she knew he was favored by the Phophets after he was told to punish her last time. No reason to try and dispute that when she had the chance to put on a good show for the Kig-Yar. The first dip on what would become a strong swim up the river of ranks and responsibility of this Covenant.

But soon it was time to move, Kael motioning for Roh to follow as well while also calling out for 'Pela, Vesa, Tal - form'. The three Commandos nodding and falling into step behind Roh as the small Kig-Yar file entered the war tent. They would need to here the plan so as to better handle the nitty gritty of the Entourage deployments when the time came. It was a nice location Kael had to admit; warm and shielded from the harsh sun while also practical. Sans the throne. That item getting a little chuckle and an eye roll from the Champion. Garatus would do well in the Hul keep if he enjoyed showing off his power and wealth like that. They loved that kind of stuff alll over. Inviting over guests just to show off their old precious treasures under the pretense of a meal. In this case it was just a battle plan.

It was a nice chair though.

Kael stayed silent as Garatus devised a plan for the Sangheili to assault one of the Human positions on the planet. Likely to just divert their attention so the Herectics could be found and expunged from the place. So while they talked Kael turned her head to the side and cheeped out somthing very quietly to the Kig-Yar behind her.

"Roh, don't hide what ails you. We will discuss after they finish talking. Don't think you are alone in this." The orange eyepeice of the helmet would bob with her beak as she nodded at Roh and the Commandos beside him before turning her attention back to the two at the command table.

"Seems as though you have the forces split well Chieftain - my Entourage will serve as harassers if needed for the attack of the Human fortification and will otherwise act as scouts and forward assaulters for the two enemy forces here."

With her piece said she waited for the group to be dismissed, and then left the war tent. Giving quick commands to her Commandos to have the start to split up the Entourage into those that would accompany the assaulting force and those who would hunt before moving off to the side of the tent so her and Roh could talk.

[John]

First Lieutenant Charles Callaghan
Officer Commanding, third platoon 153rd ODST Coy
"Angel Three-Actual"

"Gunny, we good to go?" Lieutenant Callaghan asked his platoon Sergeant. The Gunnery Sergeant sent a nod his way as way of reply. The Lieutenant switched to the Company net, and said "Angel Actual, Angel 3. Third platoon's good to go, Sir." and with that, Callaghan prepared himself. Everyone knew the mission. All that was left now was the red light, that indicated everyone enter their pods. A relic of the past, really, when paratroopers would jump out the backs of airplanes, but a welcome one at that.

---

Captain Malcolm Walker
Officer Commanding, Golf Coy, BLT, 120th MEU
"Misfit Actual"

The officer in command of Golf Company was arguably one of the oldest in the entire MEU. He was only in his early forties, but had spent most of his career as an Other Ranker before he was sent off to Officer Candidate School some ten years ago now. He'd been a Staff Sergeant back then, and at first he'd seen little reason to become an officer. After a while, however, with encouragement from his wife, he realized that he had seen so many new officers fuck up, and as a result many Marines died. He realized he could do something about that as an officer. And so off he went.

The Captain rubbed his hand over his face. He'd forgotten to shave today, and as a result he had a bit of fuzz on his jaw and chin. Too late to fix it now. The Captain pushed up the sleeve of his fatigues a little so as to reveal the watch he'd gotten for his birthday last year. Five minutes till it was time to gear up. It wasn't a long walk to the armoury. Advantages of rank, one could call it. Several people were already gearing up by the time Walker entered.

The Captain grabbed seven magazines for the MA5C, and put them in various places in his webbing. Then he did the same with three magazines for the M6C Magnum Sidearm. This pistol was chambered in the .50 Magnum. It was his personal sidearm, once given to him by a Colonel, when he was a Sergeant. After grabbing some grenades and putting them in the assorted grenade pouches, the Captain finally picked up his pistol. He grabbed a fourth magazine and inserted it into the pistol before placing it in the holster hanging off of his right hip. Lastly he took an MA5C, inserted a magazine into that as well. He was ready now.

"Alright, Golf Company. Gear up, and assemble at our designated spot." the Captain said over Company comms. Then he began the walk to his point. As luck would have it, it was right next to Echo Company's. The Captain recognized the person he needed, and strode up to him. "Mark!" he said as he approached the man, loud enough to be heard over the sounds of various Marines coming in. He extended his hand. "Be safe, old friend" he told his fellow Captain.

[Cabel]

[Inner Colonies: System: Panis Eterni Sector: Esperanza II: Current Location: “Marine Country” & Armory, UNSCS Kilimanjaro: 14th Tactical Response Fleet]

“You too, Malcolm. Stay safe,” Captain Mark Seamus ’Spade’ Sorelson replied loudly over the din taking hold of Malcolm’s hand. Malcolm had been in charge of Golf Company, and before that Charlie Company before the 7th Marines were changed over to the 120th MEU and more importantly had been one of the closest friends he’d been able to count on. “Fine Companies…Echo and Golf. Let’s keep ’em that way,”

The aging Marine turned his attention back to the assembled Marines of Echo Company, and watched as the NCOs walked down each of the neat rows inspecting each of the marines prior to the call for them to board one of many waiting Pelicans or Albatross. “I don’t want any heroes on this one. There are some new faces among us, but I want each of you…each of you marines that have been in combat to help those fresh from boot or other units. If you wanted a flowery speech, look elsewhere. Shortly, we will be dropping planet-side. It will be quick. We will receive incoming fire and will attempt to dodge that fire while giving hell to the Covenant squid-lips and methane-fart-factories and the bad gorilla suits that had the audacity to piss off the Devil Dogs whom even Hell can’t contain. It spit us back out so we can send those sorry bastards special delivery. Keep your minds clear, your eyes open and your iron sights at the ready,”

[MrKill]

Colonel Johnathon B'Sheau Killinger
120th Marine Expeditionary Unit
UNSCS Iowa

Colonel Killinger seemingly glided over the hanger floor as he strode towards the Marines preparing to board their transports. It was hard to tell the Colonel from another Marines by the way he was dressed, in full battle gear, including the heavier set of shoulder, groin, leg and knee armour. John had always, since he was a Bootenant, donned the heavier more protective armour over the thinner, more mobile versions of the standard issue vests. There was times during his career, however, he had worn the less protective gear. Being on Force Recon for much of his career meant he had, occasionally anyway, performed actual reconnaissance.

Rumour had started to pass that after twenty five years of service John was preparing to retire. There was truth behind the rumour as well, considering he had started it unintentionally while talking on a chatter to his wife while passing enlisted Marines, who then spread it through scuttlebutt. The rumour spread to pretty much every corner of the MEU but there were those who either didn't know, didn't listen or just didn't care. John had decided to consider retirement a year ago, knowing that a promotion to General practically destroyed his leadership style. The main reason he fought after the birth of his kids was to protect them.

Travis, Kyle, Jennifer and Adrianna were all grown up and could protect themselves, especially the three Killinger kids who were serving in the military. Travis, 26, was an ODST Captain commanding a good company for himself that put him in a strong position to becoming a Major sooner rather than later. Kyle, 25, was a First Lieutenant serving as a Company XO to a Marine unit deployed on Reach. Jennifer, 23, was still in the 120th MEU and had made her way back up to Lance Corporal after a series of NJPs. Adrianna left the military quite some time ago to raise her kid after her contract expired, she never re-upped.

His main goal was to protect them, but he had lost his step, and age was starting to show. He was slower than he used to be, his knees worse than they've ever been, and technology could only do so much before total replacement was the best option. Truth be told, it was probably his kids protecting him now more than he'd like. He knew Jennifer faced many glaring stares during her time within his MEU and a fair share of rumours. John had poked around in her career a little bit, which is why she was with the 120th, but Kyle and Travis were beyond his ability and pay grade to keep within his unit.

It wasn't a fear of loosing them, rather a sense of loyalty to do the best he could for them. If they were to pass away he'd rather have it on his conscience than another officer, and if he were to pass he'd want his kids to know he tried to fight for his family - for them. A sharp exhale brought John out of the dangerous line of thinking as he neared a group of Marines standing in a circle talking among themselves.

He passed the group and made his way towards a particular armoury where his weapon was stored. Though he was already in full battle rattle, he was missing his rifle and the needed ammunition for combat. John was never an officer to sit back from the front lines. By the time John got to the armoury he immediately heard a long time friend, his former platoon sergeant, giving a pep talk to his Marines.

Sorelson had come a long way, and if there was a way to get him on his MEU command staff while still leading troops on the ground, John would. The only person John trusted more than anyone, minus his family, was the aged Captain.

“I don’t want any heroes on this one. There are some new faces among us, but I want each of you…each of you marines that have been in combat to help those fresh from boot or other units. If you wanted a flowery speech, look elsewhere. Shortly, we will be dropping planet-side. It will be quick. We will receive incoming fire-,” Sorelson was saying.

John didn't want to defuse the speech by making a joke, but he found it rather amusing. The veteran Officer moved around the armoury quietly while the man was still mid-speech and gathered the needed equipment.

He collected his primary, a BR-55 HBSR, and made his way over to the ammunition. Lifting his rucksack, which already had eleven magazines in it, he started to individually load the 9.5x40mm rounds before noticing a fancy new thing in the armoury that had probably been there for ages: a speed loader. John picked up the device and examined it for a moment, he knew what it was as he'd seen it in the past. Inside, there was four stripper clips that each held ten rounds. He took the stripper clips out, clipped the device over his magazine, and loaded the ten rounds onto the clip.

He placed the stripper clip within the speed loader and pushed down on the plunger. The rounds went in nicely, and John repeated the process until he had a fully loaded BR55 magazine.

[tento125]

Staff Sergeant Shinji Akiwara
120th MEU, Echo Company, 4th Platoon
Aboard UNSC Iowa
Gear up boys and girls

Shinji pulled on the final pieces of his BDU and grabbed his most preferred weapon: the M392 Designated Marksman Rifle. He grabbed five full clips of ammunition for the gun and slotted in a few more for his secondary weapon: the M6 Magnum Pistol. According to the mission briefing, the MEU is going to be deployed on a relatively sparsely populated planet. This means that there's going to be a lot of open spaces, well suited for long to mid-ranged weapons. If things do get nasty and they have to fight in CQC, Shinji hoped that his Magnum would deal with that for him.

Satisfied with his load out, he made his way to the assembly point, only to find that he's the last person in his platoon to arrive there, save for Lieutenant Allen.

"All squads are locked and loaded Shin" Sam said as he walked over to Shinji.

"Thanks Sam" he replied "Lieutenant Allen is going to be here anytime soon, so I would suggest that you should return to your position"

"Got it. By the way, you've got incoming on your six" Sam replied as he returned to his original spot.

Shinji turned 180 degrees to see what the hell did Sam meant by "incoming". Oh, Shinji said to himself, him.

Sure enough, Lieutenant Allen slowly walked across the assembly area, full BDU with an MA5C in tow. As the man grew nearer, Shinji snapped off a salute "SIR! Fourth platoon, Echo Company is fully armed and ready to go SIR!"

Lieutenant Allen raised his hand slowly to the salute position in response. "Thank you Staff Sergeant, I'll take it from here." He glanced over his shoulder just in time to see Captain Sorelson coming nearer and nearer to the row of marines "Never mind what I just said" Allen continued "The Cap'n's gonna give a speech it seems"

“I don’t want any heroes on this one" the Captain started "There are some new faces among us, but I want each of you…each of you marines that have been in combat to help those fresh from boot or other units. If you wanted a flowery speech, look elsewhere." Shinji heard a few of the newbies in the platoon chuckle at that. Their squad leaders were quick to silence them though. "Shortly, we will be dropping planet-side. It will be quick. We will receive incoming fire and will attempt to dodge that fire while giving hell to the Covenant squid-lips and methane-fart-factories and the bad gorilla suits that had the audacity to piss off the Devil Dogs whom even Hell can’t contain. It spit us back out so we can send those sorry bastards special delivery. Keep your minds clear, your eyes open and your iron sights at the ready,”

"Semper-Fi Cap'n" Shinji heard the Lt whisper as he turned around to address the platoon. "Fourth Platoon!" he shouted "Get ready to embark! Look at the man beside you, he might be your best friend, or your worst enemy at boot camp. But in this platoon, under my command, he is your brother. You will fight alongside with him. You will look after his life, and he shall look after yours."

Damn, Shinji thought to himself, How long did it took him to memorize all that?. It is evident, however, that the Lt, is still not finished.

"You heard what the Captain said, no hero playing. I want my platoon to be alive, not to become a ghost platoon of dead heroes. Staff Sergeant Akiwara? Move them out"

"Sir yes sir" Shinji replied, somewhat startled by the sudden mention of his name. "You heard the Lt!" he shouted "Lets move move move!"

[BetaWülf]

Jiralhanae War Chieftain Garatus the Deathless, Restorer of Tribes, Slayer of Shadowed Imps, Butcher, Burner of Demons
Covenant Staging Area
Commanding the Troops

Garatus looked up from his battle plans to look at Kael as she said something to her son, he paused briefly but could not hear what she said. However, he himself turned his gaze back to General Cav, listening as the wise commander commented on the battle plans. Garatus chuckled lightly in response to the General's statement on Human facilities, it was too true. Even the Jiralhanae had more interesting looking buildings than those of the Humans.

When Kael returned her attention to the meeting he nodded to her, then listened to what she had to say. He made a rumbling chuffing noise, denoting his approval; not that he felt she needed it. In all honesty, Garatus was trying to be as open and fair as possible with the other species and forge a fellowship with the other leaders.

"Good" Garatus began "Then we shall prepare and move, taking the lands as our own with as much haste as is due" Garatus concluded.

"Soldiers of the Covenant! I am War Chieftain Garatus and hear me well, it is time that we ready ourselves for battle move out! Many of you shall claim honor today, many of you shall meet a glorious end, and all shall make me proud and work together as one to serve our Hierarchs!"

"Sangheili, ready yourselves for battle! Half of you shall go into the fields to hunt and slaughter the Humans and the Heretic scum; the other half shall go onwards to besiege and conquer a Human facility!" Garatus roared, his voice was authoritive but level, showing his trust in their abilities.

"Unggoy!" Garatus barked loudly "A portion of you shall accompany your lieges the Sangheili; the rest of you shall go and getting digging implements from the stored supplies! You shall dig trenches to encircle our encampment here to protect our mission and brethren. My Prowlers shall escort you and linger to offer protection" Garatus said, hoping his words found the Unggoy well, the bark mostly being to get their attention.

"Kig-Yar, you shall be my scouts before my Pack, partner yourselves with a Jiralhanae and march out to hunt the Heretics" Garatus rumbled, there was a certain level of expectation in his voice however, as he wished to truly see what the Kig-Yar were capable of.

"My Jiralhanae! Take up arms, for we go to war! Find a Kig-Yar to scout for you and treat them well, for they shall help us find the Heretics in their holes! You are my people, my Clansmen, venerate me with every action as if I was striking the lash at your heels" Garatus growled, asserting his dominance over his brethren, a dangerous edge framed his words to his own kind, as anything they did would reflect upon his own competence as War Chieftain. For good or ill.

"Go forth my Warriors! Bring ruin to our enemies and glory to the Empire! For the Covenant! For Honor! For the Hunt!" Garatus bellowed with zeal and pride, setting the stage for their invasion.

Covenant Update:

SPOILER: Click to show

Sangheili Players: You have the choice of either staying at the base, going out into the fields and towns to hunt Humans and Heretics, or marching on the Human facility to see what it has in store for you.

Unggoy Players: You have the choice of staying at the base, going out to dig trenches, or accompanying the Sangheili forces mentioned above.

Kig-Yar Players: You have the choice of staying at the base, joining with the Jiralhanae to hunt down the Heretics and fight Humans, or assist the Sangheili mentioned above.

Jiralhanae Players: You have the choice of staying at the base, joining with the Kig-Yar to hunt down the Heretics and fight Humans, or load up into a Prowler and patrol the fields to keep the base secure.

Note: None of this is truly mandatory for your characters, it is just to give you an idea of what the rest of your species will be doing at the moment. So if you want to be a Jiralhanae going with the Sangheili, ect, go for it!

Right now everyone should be doing final preparations and then moving out. If your character is already prepared then go out and have a little fun, or if you want to skip an arming sequence just roll out. Ghosts and Choppers will be accompanying the infantry that's moving out, so if you desire, your character can mount up on a spare light vehicle.

[Remnant]

OOC: For Mapping reference, Heretic base of operations is in Sector B1. Heretics also have a different ranking structure. Warlord (General) < Ravager (Ultra) < Marauder (Major) < Raider (Minor). Ranks apply to the whole faction rather than being different for each species, however Sangheili are still in charge when applicable.


Heretic Warlord Revuul 'Kasai
Airspace of Sector B2, Revuul's Phantom Burning Wrath
Raid on Louden

The hum of the Phantom's twin impulse drives flowed through the troop bay, piercing any silence that would have resided. Revuul's personal Phantom had been heavily modified into a hybrid gunboat/troop carrier. Because of this, the internal bay could only house 15 troops compared to the normal 30. However, it also sported more armaments. Rather than a single chin-mounted cannon, the Burning Wrath utilized three rapid-fire heavy plasma cannons. One was located at the chin, while the other two were further back. Additionally, the Phantom sported two side mounted plasma cannons on platforms that doubled as bay doors. Lastly, the Phantom's armor was thicker and more durable, and was lightly shielded. It was optimal at providing fire support for deployed troops.

Currently the Phantom housed Revuul, flanked by a Lance of his elite guard. The Cleansing Flame's numbers and strength rivaled that of a traditional Sect. Of the seven Creches that formed this faction, one was dedicated to defending Revuul and the rest of the Sect. Most of them were veterans, original members of the Cleansing Flame when it was in its infancy. Sangheili men and women who decided to take up arms against the Covenant in the name of their Kaidon. However, as the faction grew to include more races and Sangheili from other clans, it was decided that those of the 'Kas clan would be reformed into their own Creche, the Kaidon's Guard.

The Kaidon's Guard was personally trained by Revuul himself, along with his Ravagers. They have become elite warriors, and proud defenders of all that they stand for. To differentiate themselves from the standard troops, members of the Kaidon's Guard were clad in white combat harnesses. Raiders bore red and Marauders wore orange, while the seven Ravagers adorned golden combat harnesses. Revuul's personal combat harness was platinum, making him unique amongst the rest.

The bay doors let a sliver of light in, gradually expanding as the bay doors opened up to reveal the endless plains below. Revuul took a step near the edge, overlooking the area. Grassy plains darted by as the Phantom sped over, many feet in the air. Further ahead in the distance, a Human settlement could be seen, with a distant mountain range to the east.

A choir of Phantoms accompanied the Burning Wrath, with a banshee escort surrounding them. The great many hums of impulse and propulsion drives filled the air as if it were a chorus. Revuul began to hum quietly to himself, almost forgetting where he was, becoming distant.

"Is something on your mind, Kaidon?" A voice called out from behind. Revuul turned around to meet eye to eye with an old friend and clansmen, Ravager Xalek 'Kas. His golden armor was worn and scarred, a testament to his veterancy of battle and his will to survive.

"It is nothing, my friend. I am merely humming a bit of war poetry as we fly over these lands." Revuul replied.

"For such a warmonger, you can be unusually peaceful." Xalek spoke in a light-hearted manner.

"What a bitter irony, it seems." Revuul chuckled.

As Revuul turned back to the view, it wasn't long before the pilot called him over the intercom.

"Kaidon, we're approaching the settlement now. It won't be long before we rain fire on the Humans."

Revuul walked into the cockpit housing a veteran flight crew, nodding to the navigator and operations officer. Clasping a hand on the shoulders of the pilot and co-pilot, Revuul spoke up.

"Get me a line of communications with the rest of the choir." He commanded.

"Communications are open now, Kaidon." The pilot replied.

"All Phantoms, pull back and slow your approach. Allow the Banshees to make a sweep of the area and clear several landing zones before touching down." Revuul ordered into the communications channel.

Immediately the choir of Phantoms pulled back as the Banshees went on ahead, descending onto the settlement, raining fire and death where they flew. As the Phantoms approached, landing zones had already been cleared. Soon the fires of the Cleansing Flame would consume this settlement of weak insects. Revuul roared in approval, his Lance joining him. The Burning Wrath hovered over an open plaza and two guards mounted the side turrets. They fired down below in sync with the heavy plasma cannons. Screams of panic filled the air, drowning the soft hums emitting from the Phantom. Humans began to flee as the Phantom made its descent.

Revuul dropped down the ventral gravity lift, landing softly on the concrete ground. He grabbed his personalized plasma rifle, which utilized the element argon in the plasma, producing a dark red effect rather than the common blue. The same went for his energy sword, though the hilt was customized with glyphs of strength and skill. Along with these two weapons, the only other equipment he carried was four plasma grenades attached around his waist. His combat harness also utilized an active camouflage system, but it only lasted a few seconds, and moving gave away his position rather easily.

Aiming down the plaza, Revuul fired several bursts at fleeing civilians. At least two had been struck in the back by the sizzling hailfire, flailing onto the ground in searing pain. The rest of the elite Lance had joined him, dropping out of the bay doors and onto the battleground below. As they fired at the fleeing crowd, resistance began to show up. A Human militia had rallied, and began firing back at the Lance. However, the militiamen dashed for cover as the Burning Wrath proceeded to provide covering fire, allowing the Lance to make their own way to cover. Most of the militiamen and their cover had been melted into slag, and any survivors were quickly gunned down by the Lance.

Revuul stood up, noticing the area was clear. He looked at his guard and Xalek, then motioned his head at a street further down. The order was clear.

Move up.

[BetaWülf]

T'vaoan Murmillo Roh Gel
Covenant Staging Area
Venting

Roh was expecting to be dismissed at first, but was at the same time not surprised when Kael motioned for him to follow her. He complied and followed closely behind her, letting the rest of Kael's following soldiers fall in behind him regardless of their rank. He was her son and heir, after all; might as well strut while the sun was still shining. While in the war tent, Roh stood quietly back and to the left of Kael, arms crossed behind his back and head held aloft in a proud manner.

He looked to Kael as she turned to him, leaning forward slightly so as to hear her whisper. He said nothing, but nodded to her before resuming his professional stance. He listened to the War Chieftain's plans and speech, while it was a tad boisterous for Roh's taste, he imagined it would sit well with the other species.

Afterwards, Roh followed Kael out of the tent along with the other T'vaoan. He made sure to keep pace with Kael while at the same time being aware of his surroundings and systematically ignoring the other T'vaoan that were present. He hoped Kael would dismiss them, as he was not too keen on speaking of his emotions and the traumas he endured in front of others. It was something best kept in the family, he thought.

"I know you wish to speak to me, and I know why" Roh began, sighing softly as he took off his helmet "I will undertake this task and I shall do so with the skill and pride of a true Gel, but I must admit it will test me...."

"After enduring those... tortures... I have difficulty fathoming inflicting that upon another; the only reconciling thought is that I will at least be able to kill them swiftly afterwards instead of dragging their torture on for months like was done to me" he said, the many cutting scars and needle marks plain to see on his neck, face, and hands from when he was a captive of ONI.

"But I will do it nonetheless" he said before continuing "for the Clan" he said, nodding to himself.