UNITED NATIONS SPACE COMMAND PRIORITY TRANSMISSION 74636H-56

ENCRYPTION CODE: BLACK

FROM: Dr. Catherine Elizabeth Halsey M.D. Ph. D., special civilian consultant (civilian Identification number 10141-026-SRB4695)

TO: Lt. Commander Miranda Catherine Keyes, Commanding officer UNSC In Amber Clad / (UNSC service number: 26354-83327-MK)

SUBJECT: Condolences

CLASSIFICATION: TOP SECRET, EYES ONLY (XXX Directive)

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I first would like to express my deepest sympathy with the death of your father. The UNSC truly has lost one of its best. He was a great man, a true leader, and a good friend. I am glad I had the opportunity to work with him, and he was an invaluable asset in the creation of some of the UNSC's finest soldiers, the Spartans. His loyalty and sacrifice give strength to humanity's mission of winning this war. It is a tragedy for you to lose him so soon in your life.

His death is perhaps the reason I contact you. I am unsure if he has ever told you, but you are not the only one who grieves for him. I must admit that I regret my lack of involvance in your life, but it was for you and your father's protection. Your father and I had no choice but to limit my connection with you to only what was deemed necessary. Because of my work, there are those in the UNSC who would cause you harm if it was known of our relation. At the time, I told myself that my work, the reason of our separation, was to give you and the rest of humanity hope for a future that ensured mankind's survival; still, it is no excuse for me to abandon those that I love.

I had wished to tell you when you were older but fear of your rejection because of my abandoment interfered with that interaction. I regret that war has torn us apart and it too has taken your father from you.

Please forgive me for not giving you the chance of a mother's love and guidance, for my lack of involvment in your life when you were growing up. Your father tried as much as possible to give me updates of your childhood. You have his eyes as well as his stubborness he once said. I watched as you followed in your father's footsteps, and rose through the ranks in the UNSC. I wouldn't have expected less from a Keyes. Know that I am proud of you.

One other thing, I understand you've met the Master Chief. Keep your eye on him. He may be difficult to deal with, as your father mentioned when we met him as a child, but he's a good man and someone you can trust.

Sincerely,

Catherine Halsey

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