ok, here's the next chapter. i didn't think it would be that short, but it ended up that way. but look on the bright side: the next one should be done before the weeks end, maybe on thursday or friday, or maybe even less. anyways, here it is. WARNING: MUCH OF IT SHOULD BE IN ITALICS, BUT IT IS TOO DIFICULT TO SET HERE ON BUNGIE.NET. SO GO CHECK IT OUT ON www.halotheark.tk WHERE THE ITALICS WILL BE EASILY READ. Chapter 4 9th age of Reclamation (2nd age of Halo?) High Charity, Holy Suite of the Prophet of Truth Sitting a meter off the ground, the Prophet of Truth leaned back in his hovering seat as a Brute messenger left the room. He had just relayed a message from the Prophet Regret, stating the finding of a second Halo and its glory. Regret had, however, gone to the holy world in his youth-bound haste, and possibly jeopardized their entire Covenant. That was Truth’s response, yet still was a lie. The original intentions Truth carried were simple: find the locations of the two holy worlds, secure their artifacts, and in turn receive powers of a deity. Finding the first Halo had changed this simple plan drastically, but its destruction kept him from his ‘duty’ to activate the ring. Truth found this to be no concern of his, yet Regret, the Prophet of Mercy, and the High Council considered Halo to be of the highest priority. He kept his tongue steady and his thoughts to himself, but was relieved by its destruction. Still, it was necessary for all to believe his deep sorrow for its loss, as well as being strong and continuing to lead the Covenant along their original path. Not to be arrogant, Truth knew that his actions were flawless, and that none believed otherwise. There had been more problems occurring as well, and he pondered them meticulously. His first was the addition of the Jiralhanae to the Covenant. They were possibly the greatest instrument he had ever encountered, and wished for their inclusion into the Covenant. Regret and Mercy agreed, but knew nothing of his intentions. The Jiralhanae had all the traits of the Sangheili and more. He wished to rid of the Sangheili. The Jiralhanae were a strong and powerful race, each one carrying immense physical strength, as well as being quite intelligent. They feared none but the hierarchs, and drank every word Truth had spoken. The Sangheili, however, had been the foundation of the Covenant from its birth. They had always been the Prophet’s protectors, and were always thought to be the perfect warriors. Fast, powerful, and incredible strategists, they rarely failed. But they were held too dearly in the Covenant, and held too much power within it. There must be some way to rid them of this power, Truth thought. But the council will not stand for it, and neither will Regret and Mercy. There must be some way to discredit the Sangheili. Truth stocked the beard-like tendrils hanging from his chin as he searched for a possible solution. Turning towards the window, the blackness of Slipspace relaxed him. A single thought stood out: Halo, their new destination. High Charity would be arriving at any moment. Then the window showed a new picture, making Truth’s face harden. The rough voice of a Brute broke his thoughts, echoing through the room. “Honored Prophet, the Prophet of Regret sends a distress signal, urging for help.” Intriguing. “What for?” “He states the Human’s and their Demon have trapped him and are preparing an attack.” How ludicrous a statement! How could these Humans possibly harm him if the Honor Guard is at his disposal?! Truth turned back to the window when an idea struck him. “Regret requires no assistance. Pull our forces from the area and send them in search of the index. The Honor Guard are more than a match for any foe.” “Understood.” Truth could have never anticipated the Demon a participant in his grand design for power, let alone be a necessary part of it. If it could kill Regret, it would kill two birds with one stone: Regret would be gone and Truth would have a reason to remove the Sangheili from their positions in the Honor Guard. A bold step, yet necessary for his success. If his plan worked, all he needed to do was rid of Mercy. But what of the Sangheili? They will surely protest, but would they resign the High Council, even leave the Covenant? It was a strong possibility, one that Truth would not rule out. They may even attempt rebellion against the Covenant. When the time is right, an attack on them will catch them off guard, allowing me to retrieve the artifact from the holy world. And by that time, it will be too late for all who oppose this holy Covenant. All who oppose me.