Reclamation Saga: Book I: The Separatist Crisis: Chapter 0: Prologue
Note: The first 3/4ths of this page is devoted to technical information and a timeline. If you want to get acquainted with the universe I've made up here, I recommend you go through the timeline, but it is not necessary to get involved in the story. As for the weapons, vehicles, and ship specs, they are for future reference to be used if you are confused about a certain detail. Beyond that, I advise you skip them and move to the timeline.
Weapons:
BR55HB SR Battle Rifle (Battle Rife)-BR90HB SR (Capabilities: Rounds travel faster and a smaller slug that goes through a superheating process increases stopping power and penetration. Magazine size increased to 48 rounds)
MA5C ICWS (Assault Rifle)-MA9C ICSW (Capabilities: Has an overhead holographic sight that allows increased accuracy, and goes through superheating process that increases penetration and stopping power. Magazine size return to 60 rounds)
M392 Designated Marksman Rifle (DMR)-M414 Designated Marksman Rifle (Capabilities: Maintains select fire. Superheating process of rounds allows magazine size of 25 rounds while keeping same general shape and size. Sight modified to allows increased zoom range)
SRS99D-S2 AM (Sniper Rifle)-SRS07B-S1 AM (Capabilities: Sight modifications allows increased range. Round size, speed, and magazine size remain the same)
M6G PDWS (Magnum)-M7B PDWS (Capabilities: Rounds are also superheated. Rounds also move faster, have additional stopping power, and deeper penetration. Magazine size increased to 12 rounds)
M90(A) CAWS (Shotgun)-M90C CAWS (Capabilities: Remains unchanged save for a magazine increase to 18 rounds and automatic pumping system)
M7/Caseless SMG (SMG)-M9A/Caseless SMG (Capabilities: Rounds go through superheating process. Rate of fire decreased slightly, but penetration and stopping power increased to more than compensate for the loss)
M319 Individual Grenade Launcher (Grenade Launcher)-M401 Individual Grenade Launcher (Capabilities: Can use either standard fragmentation/EMP grenade or plasma grenade. Number of grenades able to be fired increases to 2 grenades fired per magazine (Note: experimental version can fire a magazine of 5 before needing changed, but it's deployment to the battlefield is still in progress))
M41 SSR (Rocket Launcher)-M47 SSR AV/AA AW (Capabilities: Additional explosives used to increase blast radius and power. Magazine size of two remains)
M6 G/GNR (Spartan Laser)-M7 E/GNR Capabilities: Increased battery life, allows for twice the shots before a new battery is required)
Asymmetric Recoilless Carbine-920 (Railgun)- Asymmetric Recoilless Carbine-960 (Capabilities: Improved battery allows quicker charging time and faster shot)
M363 Remote Projectile Detonator (Sticky Detonator)-M427 Remote Projectile Detonator (Capabilities: allows multiple ordinances to be deployed before remote detonation, which. Munitions vary between plasma, fragmentation, and EMP)
M738 Light Machine Gun (SAW)-M742 Light Machine Gun (Capabilities: Magazine size increased from 72 rounds to 96, maintaining round drum underneath. Sight modification allows improved accuracy.)
T2 EW/H (Gravity Hammer)-T3 EW/H (Capabilities: Battery life increased to use gravity functions almost indefinitely)
Type-25 Carbine (Spiker)-Type-73 Carbine (Capabilities: Sight and increased barrel length (8 cm.) to increase range)
Type-25 Directed Energy Pistol (Plasma Pistol)-Type-71 Directed Energy Pistol (Capabilities: Increased battery life. Also, a mini EMP is produced, rendering all electronic based items temporarily useless in a 5 meter radius)
Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle (Plasma Rifle)-Type-68 Directed Energy Rifle (Capabilities: Rifle length increased by 12 cm. allows increased range, accuracy, and power. Can fire semi or fully automatic)
Type-25 Grenade Launcher (Brute Launcher)-Type-69 Grenade Launcher (Capabilities: increased explosive output and faster speed)
Type-31 Rifle (Needler Rifle)-Type-74 Rifle (Capabilities: Additional crystals increase magazine size to 30 rounds. Crystals changed to allow increased explosive capabilities. Sight modifications allow increased accurate range)
Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher (Needler)-Type-65 Guided Munitions Launcher (Capabilities: Increased range through additional sight modifications. Crystals changed to allow increased magazine size to 30 needles (again), and increased explosive discharge)
Type-33 Light Anti-Armor Weapon (Fuel Rod Gun)-Type-66 Light Anti-Armor Weapon (Capabilities: increased magazine size and higher explosive output)
Type-50 Sniper Rifle System (Particle Beam Rifle)-Type 68 Sniper Rifle System (Capabilities: Sight change allowing greater range. Round and magazine remain unchanged)
Type-51 Carbine (Covenant Carbine)-Type-71 Carbine (Capabilities: Slight sight modifications allow increased accurate range. Magazine size increased to 24 rounds)
T52 GML/E (Plasma Launcher)-T14 GML/E (Capabilities: Lock on range increased, as is magazine size. Munitions remain unchanged)
Type-52 Pistol (Mauler)-Type-74 Pistol (Capabilities: Increased magazine size to 35 rounds)
Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword (Energy Sword)-Type-2 Energy weapon/Sword (Capabilities: Increased battery life allows for almost indefinite use)
Vehicles:
M808B Main Battle Tank (Scorpion)-M875 Main Battle Tank (Capabilities: Personal shielding. Faster speed for rounds courtesy of Covenant tech study, higher explosive capacity. Standard PT round, with HE and AP rounds available. Reload time reduced to 2.5 seconds per round. Tank chassis slightly smaller, and speed increased slightly)
M12 Force Application Vehicle (Warthog)-M15 Force Application Vehicle (Capabilities: Improved armor and faster speed. No shields were added to decrease weight)
M145D Mobile Artillery Assault Platform (MAAP) (Rhino)-Completely phased out
M274 ULATV (Mongoose)-M302 ULATV (Capabilities: faster speed)
M312 Heavy Recovery Vehicle (Elephant)-Completely phased out (Exception: scientific explorations)
M850 Main Battle Tank (Grizzly)-Completely phased out
M9(A) Main Anti-Aircraft Tank (MAAT) (Wolverine)-M9G Main Anti-Aircraft/Mobile Artillery Tank (MAA/MAT) (Capabilities: Archangel Missiles used instead with standard PT rounds. Increased accuracy in regards to ground targets)
SP42 Main Battle Tank (Cobra)-Completely phased out (Exception: Plans for SP76 Main Battle Tank are on the table, but only can be produced, as per Congressional Resolution 341-A, during a time of war. In that case, the 16 MJ LRG Rail Guns remain, but the 80 MJ LRG Rail Guns are improved to allow faster speed of rounds, faster coaxial rotation for turrets, and faster vehicular speed, but the new model lacks any personal shielding)
M162A Cougar Infantry Fighting Vehicle (Cougar) (Capabilities: Gauss Rifle mounted at turret, with twin 7.62x57 mm. chain guns on top (Note: Gauss Rifle improved to fire round at faster speed and has lower reload and recharge time). Six wheels and high-performance engine allow fast speed and excellent maneuverability. (Weak) personal shielding. Required crew of two, and can fit a squad of eight comfortably)
M275B2 Fox (Fox Cannon) (Capabilities: Long Range cannon mounted on body with six wheels granting speed and maneuverability. GPS system used to allow incredible accuracy (Accuracy of 10 m x 10 m area). Standard round is PT, but HE, AP, and DP rounds are also possible. No shielding. Required crew of two. Automatic reloading system)
Single Occupant Exoatmospheric Insertion Vehicle (HEV)-((New) Capabilities: minimal shielding prevents likelihood of penetration of vehicle from outside sources. Death toll significantly lower)
GA-TL1 Longsword Interceptor (Longsword)-F-43 Exoatmospheric Multi-Role Strike Craft (Capabilities: Two 35 mm. chain guns mounted under wings, each with super-heated rounds, and one 90 mm. coaxial, retractable turret under nose. Personal shielding. Archangel Missiles used. Faster and better zero-gravity maneuvering capabilities. Sleeker, smaller appearance, with the use of only one crew member necessary rather than four)
YSS-1000 (Sabre)-YSS-1250 (Capabilities: Wing-mounted thrusters improved, allowing longer duration of increased speed. Twin auto cannons now can fire at a quicker rate. Archangel missiles used, with improved lock-on abilities, allowing longer range and more maneuverability for missiles. Shielding improved upon)
AC-220 Vulture (Vulture)-AC-270 (Capabilities: Missiles replaced with PT Archangel Missiles. Autocnnons capable of firing at a faster rate. "Spartan Laser" like weapon used at bottom front as an accurate replacement to missiles. Personal shielding added)
AV-14 Attack VTOL (Hornet)-AV-19 Attack/Defense VTOL (Capabilities: Nose mounted Gatling gun has faster rotation speed. Archangel Missiles added. Personal shielding added)
D77-TC Pelican (Pelican)-D83-TC (Capabilities: Engines improved upon to give faster speed. Given sleeker appearance. Personal shielding added)
Type-31 Exoatmospheric Multi-Role Fighter (Seraph)-Type-72 Exoatmospheric Multi-Role Fighter (Capabilities: Improved range, accuracy, and firepower of dual heavy plasma cannons. Two fuel rod guns (instead of four) have improved accuracy, firepower, and lock-on range. Faster speed and better zero-gravity maneuvering capabilities. Personal shielding)
Type-25 Rapid Assault Vehicle (Brute Chopper)-Type 60 Rapid Assault Vehicle (Capabilities: Side-mounted rockets given more fuel, thus lasting longer. Plasma turrets given improved power)
Type-26 Assault Gun Carriage (Wraith)-Type-62 Assault Gun Carriage (Capabilities: Faster speed, increased explosive power per plasma round. Lower cooldown time. Personal Shielding added to all "Wraiths")
Type-26 Ground Support Aircraft (Banshee)-Type-73 Ground Support Aircraft (Capabilities: plasma turrets and fuel rod cannon have increased power per shot. Lower cooldown time between shots. Personal shielding)
Type-25 Troop Carrier (Spirit)-Type-58 Troop Carrier (Capabilities: more space for infantry. Plasma turret improved to have higher explosive output)
Type-29 Troop/Vehicle Transport (Shadow)-Completely phased out
Type-30 Light Excavation/Anti-Fortification Platform (Locust)-Type-70 Anti-Fortification Platform (Capabilities: Focus Cannon has increased power and personal shielding)
Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle (Ghost)-Type-70 Rapid Assault Vehicle (Capabilities: Can accelerate for longer duration of time. Plasma turrets given more power)
Type-46 Infantry Support Vehicle (Spectre)-Type-68 Infantry Support Vehicle (Capabilities: Can accelerate for longer duration. Plasma turret given more explosive output)
Type-47 Ultra Heavy Assault Platform (Scarab)-Type-69 Ultra Heavy Assault Platform (Capabilities: Personal shielding. Dumb AIs incorporated to allow improved accuracy. Anti-aircraft turret given faster rotation speed)
Type-48 Light Assault Gun Carriage (Revenant)-Type-74 Light Assault Gun Carriage (Capabilities: Plasma mortar given higher explosive output. Can accelerate for longer duration of time)
Type-52 Infantry Support Vehicle (Brute Prowler)-Completely phased out
Type-52 Troop Carrier (Phantom)-Type-59 Troop Carrier (Capabilities: Plasma turret faster firing rate, stronger plasma bolts, and quicker cooldown time)
Type-31 Air Artillery (Covenant Air Artillery)-Type 60 Air Artillery (Capabilities: Three plasma mortars reduced to two, both with more explosive output and greater area of impact. Faster speed (slightly faster than a Vulture). Dumb AI introduced to improve accuracy and maneuverability. Single heavy needler cannon introduced under nose of craft for anti-infantry and aircraft capabilities. Personal shielding)
Type-29 Close Support Fighter (Vampire)-Type-55 Close Support Fighter (Capabilities: Heavy needler cannon has improved explosive output, and needles move at an accelerated rate. Twin heavy plasma cannons have similar upgrades. Stasis cannon requires half time to drain power from enemy aircraft, and automatically repairs own as a result of siphoned power. Personal shielding. Moves faster, and has sleeker appearance. Dumb AI introduced to improve accuracy and prioritize areas of craft needed for repair)
Type-27 Exoatmospheric Multi-role Fighter (Banshee Interceptor)-Type-62 Exoatmospheric Multi-role Fighter (Capabilities: Barrels for plasma cannons elongated further, allowing more power behind each shot. Higher rate-of-fire also incorporated. Fuel Rod cannon also has longer lock-on range and more power. Faster speed of craft, and improved thrusters technology allows longer duration of further increased speed
Nicknames remain the same for sake of convenience for reader and myself.
(Note: L=Length, W=Width, MA=Main Armament, SA=Secondary Armaments)
For reference as to what the ships look like for the UNSC, look up Sins of the Prophets on Google, and click the first link, which will bring you to a mod page for Sins of a Solar Empire. From there, search through the images until you reach a picture of all the UNSC ships drawn to scale against each other. The same general shapes are maintained for each class of ship.
Ships Specs:
UNSC Assault Carrier (Sol-class)-L=4,500 m., W=480 m., MA=2 MAC's (Note: MACs have been improved upon, slightly, with speeds varying from ship class to ship class, ODP's remaining at 40% speed of light (c), and in this instance, the assault carriers firing them at around 15% c, with reactors on all ships able to fire two MAC's at a time. Improved upon Pillar of Autumn-style reactors allow firing at rapid rate (four times a minutes before full recharge)), SA=50 Longbow Missile Pods (improved upon from Archer missiles, plasma tipped and are faster, with each missile pod carrying 10 missiles each), 60 Mass Drivers (primitive MAC guns scaled down for individual use, much weaker, but still a potent weapon in close range and when fired with others of its kind. Are often grouped in pairs on circular moving turrets, similar in appearance to turbolaser batteries on Star Destroyers) and 120 40mm chain gun CIWS
UNSC Carrier (Reach-class)-L=3,200 m., W= 310 m., MA=1 MAC (11% c), SA=30 Longbow Missile Pods, 40 Mass Drivers, 80 40mm chain gun CIWS
UNSC Escort Carrier (Leonidas-class)-L=2,400 m., W=255 m., MA=none, SA=25 Longbow Missile Pods, 30 Mass Drivers, and 60 40mm chain gun CIWS
UNSC Battleship (New Arcadia-class)-L=4,200 m., W=325 m., MA=2 MAC's (14% c), SA=60 Longbow Missile Pods, 80 Mass Drivers, and 120 40mm chain gun CIWS
UNSC Battle Cruiser (Jovian-class)-L=1,800 m., W=245 m., MA=1 MAC (7% c), SA=20 Longbow Missile Pods, 28 Mass Drivers, and 60 40mm chain gun CIWS
UNSC Heavy Cruiser (Everest-class)-L=1,450 m., W=215 m., MA=1 MAC (5% c), SA=18 Longbow Missile Pods, 20 Mass Drivers, 45 30mm chain gun CIWS
UNSC Light Cruiser (Hephaestus-class)-L=1,200 m., W=195 m., MA=1 MAC (4% c), SA=12 Longbow Missile Pods, 10 Mass Drivers, and 30 40mm chain gun CIWS
UNSC Destroyer (Damascus-class)-L=500m., W=150 m., MA= none, SA=8 Longbow Missile Pods, 6 Mass Drivers, and 40 40mm chain gun CIWS
UNSC Heavy Frigate (Pacific-class)-L=550 m., W=200 m., MA= 1 MAC (1.5% c), SA=8 Longbow Missile Pods, 8 Mass Drivers, and 20 40mm chain gun CIWS
UNSC Light Frigate (Cerberus-class)-L=500 m., W=155 m., MA=1 MAC (1.5% c), SA=6 Longbow Missile Pods, 10 Mass Drivers, and 22 40mm chain gun CIWS
UNSC Dreadnought (Charat-class)-L=2,600 m., W=295 m., MA=1 MAC (9% c), SA=25 Longbow Missile Pods, 36 Mass Drivers, and 75 40mm chain gun CIWS
UNSC Supercarrier (Vanguard-class)-L=12,800 m., W=1,250 m., MA=2 MACs (35% c), 2 (Bow-oriented) Energy Projectors (Note: UNSC Energy Projectors able to sustain themselves for a full 30 seconds before need to recharge), SA=210 Longbow Missile Pods, 320 Mass Drivers, 46 (Experimental) UNSC Plasma Turrets (Note: for UNSC, magnetic coils typically used by mass drivers and MAC guns are used to shape and guide the plasma torpedo released, as well as increase density. Unfortunately, it uses up much reactor energy, requiring at least one hundred and twenty seconds to charge) and 880 40mm chain gun CIWS (Note: Vanguard-class Supercarriers are capable of carrying up to 6 Cerberus-class Light Frigates in the underbelly of the vessels.)
Soldier Specs:
UNSC Marine (standard)-Given minimal augmentations that allow for longer bursts of strength on command, similar to adrenaline rush, only lacking in subsequent "crash". Personal shielding given to all soldiers, with strength comparable to former Covenant-Era Sangheili Minor. Armor underneath covers chest, shoulders, knees, shins, elbows, and head. Helmet comes with build-in HUD system and basic Night Vision capabilities.
UNSC Orbital Drop Shock Trooper (standard)-minimal augmentations allow permanent strength and agility increase, with higher probability of failure than standard augmentations. Standard, black armor covering all portions of body remain with shielding equivalent of Covenant-Era Sangheili Major. Silver visor comes with HUD and VISR system that allow larger electronic storage space.
UNSC Spartan V (standard)-Augmentations improved upon from Spartan-IV program, but still fall short of strength and agility of Spartan-II's. Armor, with variants for each individual part, covers the entire body, is roughly the same in terms of weight, size, and dimensions as Mark V[B], and allows shielding of strength similar to that of a Covenant-Era Sangheili Ultra. (Typically) Golden visor allows HUD, VISR, and AI link-up capabilities.
Note: All soldiers with a rank of Corporal or higher in the UNSC Marine Crops or equivalent rank in command of a group of soldiers, and has a presence on the battlefield, will have TACPAD on their left forearm/wrist, giving them a holographic display of the known battlefield, nearby buildings, information of soldiers under the officer's command, etc.
((B)CE=(Before) Common Era/BSC=Before Siege of Coruscant)
Chapter 0: A New Beginning
150,002 BCE/152,589 BSC-Precursors driven to brink of extinction in Milky Way Galaxy by Forerunners, unofficially bestowing upon them the "Mantle".
110,028 BCE/112,615 BSC-Flood spores in transparent canisters inside cargo hold of unmarked transport from unknown region of space enters Human-dominated space. Effects of Flood Infection quickly discovered, and combat against the parasite begins immediately by Humans.
110,023 BCE/112,600 BSC-Humans discover secret to Precursor "Neural Physics". Test subjects from remote Outer Colonies near the center of the Milky Way Galaxy are chosen to see the effects of such biotechnology.
110,009 BCE/112,596 BSC-Human-Forerunner War initiated. Humanity, in an attempt to escape Flood outbreak, take Forerunner worlds, beginning the conflict. Human-San 'Shyuum Alliance, with the reverse engineered technology of the Precursors at Charum Hakkor, are able to hold off both attackers well, but eventually fail with the fall of Charum Hakkor, and loss of cure for Flood Infection (Director's Note: Speculated that no Flood Cure exists. Simply, the parasite avoided Humanity when possible to attack Forerunner Civilization. Thus, the Flood maybe a punishment form the Precursors for the Forerunner's "insolence"). Humans de-evolved to primitive state by Forerunners. Several small Human colonies near the center of the galaxy escape the Forerunner's and Flood's wrath, with their biotechnology intact. To ensure continued and sustained development, Humans create underground facilities capable of withstanding prolonged orbital bombardment.
100,300 BCE/102,796 BSC-First contact between Forerunners and Flood. Beginning of Forerunner-Flood War.
100,000 BCE/102,587 BSC-Halo Array fired by Forerunners. All sentient beings in Milky Way Galaxy eradicated with the Flood. Forerunners extinct (Director's Note: Search for the Didact after the Requiem Incident is ongoing). Some Humans survive relatively unscathed in the colonies near the center of the galaxy thanks to extensive underground facilities.
26,892 BCE/29,488 BSC-Highly advanced extra-galactic species known as Rakatans creates first pan-galactic empire, known as the Infinite Empire, after the Halo Event and enslave all known species in what is later known as the Inner and Mid Rim regions. All Human technology in their former Outer Colonies from before the Halo Event is lost, and (Inner Rim) Humanity is enslaved, but introduced to other forms of highly advanced technology. Genetic manipulations at the hands of the Rakatans results in many other sentient species in the "Inner" and "Mid-Rim" Territories having Neural Physics abilities.
23,169 BCE/25,756 BSC-Force Wars of Tython begin. Jedi Order formed, unbeknownst to the Infinite Empire.
22,564 BCE/25,151 BSC-Infinite Empire falls after prolonged slave revolts. Artifacts such as the Star Forge are lost to never be recovered (Note: One element of this AU is that the Star Forge is never discovered, meaning the event of Knights of the Old Republic happen differently. Revan and Malak still fall to the dark side, and Revan still kills Malak after redeeming himself, but the Sith Empire they form is more a secessionist force, a rebellion, and thus they used more traditional military vessels and arms that the Republic used rather than what was used from the Star Forge.)
22,417 BCE/25,013 BSC-Galactic Republic formed. Jedi Order pledges allegiance to newly created government.
2,373 BCE/4,960 BSC-Great Hyperspace War begins. Sith forced from their home-world of Korriban.
1,323-1,320 BCE/3,910-3,907 BSC-Jedi Civil War. Knight Revan and Master Bastila Shan, upon conclusion of the conflict, in protest over "arbitrary rules" of the Jedi Order in regards to attachment, leave to Outer Rim in hopes of avoiding possible retribution at hands of the Jedi.
1,054-1,029 BCE/3,641-3,616 BSC-Great Galactic War. Ends in stalemate with the Treaty of Coruscant. Galaxy divided between Resurgent Sith Empire and Galactic Republic. Cold War begins.
938 BCE/3,525 BSC-Sangheili-San 'Shyuum War begins.
852 BCE/3,439 BSC-Covenant formed.
532 CE/2,055 BSC-Resurgent Sith Empire, following centuries of rebellions and proxy wars with the Galactic Republic, is disbanded, and the Galactic Republic re-establishes control over regions formerly under Sith rule. Galaxy again reunited.
1,624 CE/963 BSC-Seventh Battle of Ruusan ends. Remaining Sith retreat deep into the Outer Rim Territories, where they remain hidden to rebuild their strength in exclusion. (Note: Rule of Two never created. In this AU, roughly 2,000 Sith survive and leave to [REDACTED] where they recruit more over the course of time until the Separatists Crisis.) Army of the Light disbanded and Ruusan Reformation begins.
24 October 1,945 CE/24:10:642 BSC-United Nations formed.
11 June 1,982 CE/11:6:605 BSC-First (accidental) contact with extraterrestrial species (Post Halo Event). Is member species of Galactic Republic. All events that transpired covered up by Central Intelligence Agency of the United states of America. Information later given to Office of Naval Intelligence upon formation and assimilation of international intelligence agencies. Species name: [REDACTED]
1 February 2,027 CE/1:2:560 BSC-United States military first to perfect the production of EMP missiles with the EDM-172 Zeus, which is capable of creating a directed electro-magnetic pulse remotely.
2,163 CE/430 BSC-Mars Campaign begins. ODST's formed.
2,164-2,170 CE/423-417 BSC-Interplanetary War. Creation of the Unified Earth Government.
April 2,291 CE/4:296 BSC-Shaw-Fujikawa Translight Engine created. Interstellar colonization begins.
2,491-2,506 CE/96-81 BSC-Office of Naval Intelligence (re)-initiates the ORION Project (Spartan-I). Among those who survived the project was Avery Junior Johnson.
2,511 CE/76 BSC-John(-117) is born in Elysium City, Eridanus-II.
2,517 CE/70 BSC-John(-117), with 74 other candidates, is kidnapped by Catherine Halsey and members of the Office of Naval Intelligence Section III and taken to Reach for training. Only 33 would survive to become full-fledged Spartan-II's.
1 January 2,525 CE/1:1:62 BSC-Overall Human population (estimate):39 billion
19 January 2,525 CE/19:1:62 BSC-The Covenant Oracle, after consulted over the revelation of numerous Forerunner "relics" on a previously unknown planet results in the Oracle informing the Covenant about their ancient mistranslation of the Forerunner glyph representing "reclaimer" (Note: the Covenant, at the time, were under the assumption it translated to "reclamation."). The three High Prophets of the Covenant prevent word from spreading over this recent revelation and declares Humanity an abomination worthy of nothing less than annihilation.
2 February 2,525 CE/2:2:62 BSC-Covenant arrive in orbit above Harvest, initiating the first Battle of Harvest. Beginning of the Human-Covenant War.
27 November 2,525 CE/27:11:62 BSC-Spartan-II's acquire MJOLNIR Mk IV armor for use. Battle of Chi Ceti. Ends in UNSC Pyrrhic Victory.
1 March 2,526 CE/1:3:61 BSC-Admiral Preston Cole, leading the largest Human fleet ever assembled at 40 ships, arrives at Harvest to reclaim the colony. Upon revelation that the Covenant use energy shielding, and their weapons do not have the range that UNSC weapons do, Cole wisely uses one of the Agamemnon Missiles (Successor to the Zeus Missile, capable of creating a powerful, directed EMP) with devastating effect. The Covenant fleet is utterly obliterated with the loss of only seven UNSC warships.
12 April 2,526 CE/12:4:61 BSC-The Covenant Fleet of Particular Justice, numbering a total of 250 vessels, arrives in the Epsilon Indi System. The relatively small UNSC fleet is forced to retreat in the face of such massive numbers, but is able to evacuate 99.5% of the planet's population. In the skirmish between the two opposing forces, the fleetmaster of the Covenant fleet is killed, leaving Thel 'Vadamee to take command. Harvest is glassed, and Admiral Cole enacts the Cole Protocol as it would later be known, to delay the Covenant from finding any other Human worlds.
7 September 2,529 CE/7:9:58 BSC-Operation MIDGUARD is initiated. (Vice) Admirals Whitcomb, Cole, and Hood, each in command of massive UNSC fleets, amassed on one of three vital worlds in the Outer Colonies as the rest were evacuated.
19 November 2,529-20 May 2,530 CE/19:11:58-20:5:57 BSC-After several probing excursions by Covenant forces, a full-scale assault went underway on the three systems home to the three major UNSC fleets in the Outer Colonies. After fighting valiantly, all three worlds were lost. In a final act of desperation, Vice Admiral Whitcomb deployed a NOVA bomb on his planet, knowing one of the three High Prophets (Mercy) was in the system. Upon retreating with the remains of his fleet, his activated the bomb as Covenant Huragok were busily studying it. The ensuing blast obliterated a full 85% of the Covenant fleet in orbit, including the High Prophet of Mercy, and rendered the planet unable to sustain any lifeforms for many years to come.
2 July 2,530 CE/2:7:57 BSC-Spartan Blue team, lead by Master Chief John-117, captures a CCS-class battlecruiser, and under the instructions of the Office of Naval Intelligence, sends a superluminal signal on all frequencies to High Charity (The Covenant Holy City and capitol), as well as any worlds of keen interest, offering a truce between the two factions. The Covenant are also warned that the bomb that killed the High Prophet of Mercy is mass produced, and several are en route to High Charity and all Covenant species homeworlds if the truce is not accepted.
3 July 2,530 CE/3:7:57 BSC-the Covenant agree to the cease-fire. Blue team returns with several Huragoks who wished to escape their lives with the Covenant.
7 November 2,549 CE/7:11:38 BSC-CTN 9452-9 Cortana is created form a flash-clone of Dr. Halsey's brain. She is stationed with the UNSC Pillar of Autumn (C-709), an experimental cruiser with recovered Covenant shielding and engines. The cruiser is also home to Spartan Blue team.
9 November 2,552 CE/9:11:35 BSC-Following a lead discovered by Dr. Halsey on Reach, the Pillar of Autumn, with a task force of 25 ships, makes a slipspace jump to an unknown region of space, discovering the Alpha Halo (Instillation-04). During reconnaissance operations on the Halo, the Covenant Fleet of Particular Justice, lead by Fleetmaster Thel 'Vadamee, drops into the system, and demand the UNSC leave the system immediately. A small skirmish ensues, resulting in the Pillar of Autumn to crash land on the Halo. In the chaos, the Flood break out of their containment vessels. This prompts the two forces to work together to stop the parasite from spreading. Blue Team discovers 343 Guilty Spark, who hurriedly leads them to the Activation Index. AI Cortana, though, stops the process and explains to Blue team, as the Allied forces at large, that the Halo is a weapon of mass destruction. 343 Guilty Spark concurs with this statement (before the Covenant forces), and pleads with the Spartans to activate the Halo and stop the outbreak. Instead, the group leaves with AI Cortana, abandoning Guilty Spark, and detonated the reactors of the fallen Pillar of Autumn, destroying the Halo and all Flood specimens on it. 343 Guilty Spark survives to board with the Seeker of Truth, the flagship of the Fleet of Particular Justice.
10 November 2,552 CE/10:11:35 BSC-The remnants of the Covenant Fleet of Particular Justice and UNSC task force broadcasts the recent revelations to the galaxy at large, prompting the Prophets of Regret and Truth to denounce Fleetmaster Thel 'Vadamee, and commence with their coup, replacing the Sangheili in the Covenant High Council with Jiralhanae. Beginning of the Great Schism. Covenant Loyalists declare a resumption of hostilities between them and humanity, resulting in the UNSC supporting the Covenant Separatists.
27 November 2,552 CE/27:11:35 BSC-High Charity, in orbit of Instillation-05 (Delta Halo), is infected with Flood specimens as a result of a massive battle between Covenant Separatists and Loyalists in the area around the Halo. Prophets of Regret and Truth escape aboard Keyship and move with remnants of escort fleet to recently discovered coordinates of Earth.
1 December 2,552 CE/1:12:35 BSC-Major Covenant Loyalist fleet drops into the Sol System, in pursuit of an artifact that would lead them to Instillation-00 (the Ark). Loyalist fleet sustains heavy casualties, but is able to breach Earth's orbital defenses and open the portal over Voi, Earth. The Separatists Fleet of Particular Justice, with Thel 'Vadam (formally Thel 'Vadamee), arrives and supports a UNSC foray into the portal to find and eliminate the Prophets of Truth and Regret.
2 December 2552 CE/2:12:35 BSC-Allied fleets arrive at the Ark, and engage Covenant forces as assembled Spartan teams move to find and eliminate the High Prophets. After fighting through numerous Loyalists defenses, Blue team infiltrates the Activation Room, and eliminates the High Prophets. Before victory is assured, the infected High Charity arrives and crash lands on the Ark. AI Cortana advises an activation of the replacement Halo under construction, which would result in the destruction of the Halo, the Ark, and High Charity. With the help of a squad of Marines lead by Avery Johnson and Fleetmaster Thel 'Vadam, Blue Team successfully infiltrates the Activation Room, and after a short engagement with a rampant 343 Guilty Spark, the Halo is fired, with all save for Master Chief Petty Officer John-117 successfully escaping aboard the UNSC Forward Unto Dawn (FFG-201). The latter, with AI Cortana, was stranded in the [REDACTED] region of space.
3 March 2,553 CE/3:3:34 BSC-Battle of the Ark Memorial erected over a hillside in Voi, with Lord Terrence Hood, Admiral Cole, Vice Admiral Whitcom, Staff Sergeant Avery Junior Johnson and Fleetmaster Thel 'Vadam presiding over the ceremony. Spartan John-117 officially declared Missing In Action. A total of 587.6 million humans were killed in the Human-Covenant War, and the ensuing Great Schism.
2,557 CE/30 BSC- UNSC Infinity (INF-101), deployed to Sangheilios as a sign of good will. Fleetmaster Thel 'Vadam, the de facto leader of the Covenant Separatists, in return, provided explicit information on Covenant shielding and plasma-based weaponry, in exchange for information on AI's and progress humans make in improving the designs provided.
15 May 2,563 CE/15:5:24 BSC-Battle of Tiber-VIII ends in UNSC/Separatists victory over the Covenant Remnants (Storm Covenant). Covenant Separatists reformed into the Inter-Species Alliance, with the San-Shyuum the only species excluded from entry.
2,565 CE/22 BSC-Re-colonization of the Outer Colonies ends. UNSC returns emergency powers to the UEG, which is reformed to allow better representation of the Outer Colonies. Insurgency Remnants dissolve.
29 January 2,566 CE/29:1:21 BSC-UNSC Cloak and Dagger makes first contact with sentient species over unknown planet (Telos IV).
30 January 2,566 CE/30:1:21 BSC-Representatives of the Galactic Republic, UEG, and ISA meet over Telos IV, and share basic information. UEG and ISA representatives affronted by Republic's proposal to join under the condition that they disarm, dismantle all smart AI's, and begin use of hyperspace engines. All requests are denied, and a keen distrust between the two sides develops (Director's Note: Unsurprisingly enough, this pushed the ISA and UEG closer than they were before).
4 April 2,568 CE/4:4:19 BSC-Trade Federation uses droid armies to blockade and invade Naboo in protest over recent taxes levied against the intragalactic organization. ONI operatives working in the field report that the viceroy of the Trade Federation worked in conjunction with the mythical Sith known as Darth Maul. Queen Amidala escapes capture and hides in the swamps of Naboo to gather support from the Gungan people.
5 April 2,568 CE/2:5:19 BSC-ONI operatives given authority to intervene, and successfully aid Queen Amidala off planet. In the escape, however, the slipspace engine is damaged, and the prowler accidentally jumps to Tatooine. Queen Amidala able to contact Jedi Council and High Chancellor Valorum asking for assistance. Jedi dispatch Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn and his Padawan Obi-Wan Kenobi to assist the Queen. In an attempt to find parts for their slipspace engine, the ONI operatives, with Queen Amidala disguised as a handmaiden, move to Mos Espa, where they encounter a Toydarian who owns two slaves: Shmi and Anakin Skywalker. (Director's Note: A friendship quickly develops between the adolescent queen and the slave boy Anakin).
6 April 2,568 CE/6:5:19 BSC-Master Jinn and Padawan Kenobi arrive on Tatooine, and are quickly sidetracked in an attempt to free Anakin Skywalker and his mother at the request of Queen Amidala. Master Jinn, however, is only able to free Anakin on a bet with the Toydarian. However, upon discovering the possible significance of Anakin, it was mandated that at least one ONI operative keep an eye on Shmi at all times to use as a bargaining chip if need be.
7 April 2,568 CE/7:5:19 BSC-Queen Amidala and her entourage (sans ONI operatives) arrives on Coruscant. Queen Amidala's pleas for assistance fall on deaf ears, and she calls for a vote of no confidence in Chancellor Valorum. Anakin Skywalker is taken to the Jedi High Council for study, and is found unworthy of acceptance into the Order. Master Jinn threatens to leave if Anakin is not accepted as his new padawan, citing his current one is worthy of the Trials of Knighthood. The Council agrees to reconsider upon the completion of their mission to return the Queen to her homeworld.
10 April 2,568 CE/10:5:19 BSC-Battle of the Grassy Plains. Trade Federation decisively defeated by Gungan and Nubian forces in and around Theed. Viceroy Gunray captured. Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn killed by first Sith sighted in nearly a millennium, who is subsequently killed by his apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi. Padawan Kenobi knighted in the Theed Palace, and takes Anakin Skywalker as his apprentice, to the chagrin of the Jedi High Council.
3 May 2,568 CE/3:5:19 BSC-Master Dooku leaves the Jedi Order, citing the failure of the Council to follow up on Qui-Gon Jinn's death at the hand of the Sith.
9 May 2,568 CE/9:5:19 BSC-Count Dooku (upon reclamation of his title of Count of Serenno), is contacted by ONI operatives. Operation SUMTER initiated.
09 August 2,575 CE/9:8:12 BSC
Serenno Manor, Capitol District, Serenno, Serenno System, D'Astan Sector, Outer Rim Territories
23:02:56 (Local Time)
Atop a small hill overlooking a running river to the east and a small village to the west stood a manor as ancient as the ground it rested on. The beige stone bore an old, Gothic-like architecture to it, intricate designs adorning the curvaceous exterior walls. The manor was large, to say the least, occupying almost the entirety of the flat hill-top. At the center of the building, a large tower with a single balcony overlooking the river rose above the domes that made up the rest of the roof. On that balcony, a lone figure wearing what appeared to be a cape or robe that fluttered and flew in the wind stood proudly overlooking the nearby countryside. Behind him, the balcony door, a classic design made up of wood and glass made by the finest of Serennian artisans, stayed open, and a golden light shone through the darkness, only to stop just behind the figure.
The wind picked up shortly thereafter, and the lone sentient turned on its heels and walked back in long, measured strides, closing the double doors gently behind him. The inside appeared equally as ornate as the outside. Bookshelves contoured to the curving walls, with volume after precious volume filling cranny of the space. The bookshelves stopped short of the door by a mere meter on each side, revealing a beige stone wall lacking any personality. Two desks rested atop a plush red rug that filled the entire floor and carried an intricate, golden and green design. Both had books and holo-tablets were stacked on top of each other on the desk. Opposite the doorway to the balcony stood a high and narrow green wooden door with a cast-iron handle, the book shelves tracing along the curves of the door.
Sitting in one of the chairs with the desk behind him was a man in a black suit, white undershirt, black tie, and black glasses. His short brown hair was cut in a military style, and his pale complexion betrayed no emotion. The figure, a man with a black suit and brown cape, grey beard, wrinkled caucasian skin, and brown eyes, stood opposite this suited man with his arms crossed over his chest.
"Did your 'meditation' give you insight into our next course of action, Count?" the younger man in the black suit asked his compatriot as he leaned back against the desk, his elbows propping him up.
"Indeed it has my skeptical friend." the aged man replied with a mix of disdain and authoritative undertones in his voice.
The older man raised his head higher incrementally, and continued, "I must travel to Ryloth, and meet with the planetary leaders. They are already disgruntled enough with the Republic. It won't take much to compel them to side with us, especially if the weapons and training you claim you can provide is in fact, real."
"I assure you my friend, it is." the black suited man said with conviction.
"Than the Republic will take yet another fatal step towards obliteration." the older man replied darkly.
After a short, pregnant pause, the younger man propelled himself out of the chair and began walking lazily towards the narrow, wooden door on the opposite side of the room, while saying, "If that's all Count, than I shall get in contact with my superiors and inform them of this development."
As the man's hand hovered mere centimeters from the knob that would open the door, he turned his head slightly to the right, and said ominously, "We will stay in contact."
"I would certainly hope so." the aged man retorted.
The pale man then opened the door and left the room, closing the door behind him, leaving the Count to his thoughts.
XXX
Galactic Ballroom, Senate Building, Senate District, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Corusca Sector, Core World Territories
23:19:38 (Local Time)
Masquerade. Among the many things the "Terrans" gave the greater galactic community, this concept of a masked ball was among the most popular in the upper echelon of society. The ruling elite of the Galactic Republic, were especially fond of this form of celebration, finding any excuse to conceal their identities momentarily and indulge themselves in the finer things of life. The vast majority of these politicians found no qualms about the decadence that surrounded them at these gatherings. All, save for a notable handful, among whom was the recently added senator representing the people of Naboo, Padmé Amidala.
This young, attractive woman with petite, feminine features beneath a jade-colored senatorial gown that hugged her curves chose to spend the evening sitting at one of the round tables near the exit, hoping she could soon find a good reason to escape from the extravagance. Her mask, a polished silver and gold outlined figure that would have hid everything on her face from the nose up, hung loosely in her right hand, her left aimlessly drawing circles on the fine fabric that covered the table below. Next to her, some constituents talked about nothing in particular, fake smiles plastered on their faces and fabricated laughter leaving their lips. All at her table were human of various complexions, but their names escaped the young senator.
A young caucasian man, tall and composed, with dark blond hair cut in a military fashion and a small braid hanging from behind his right ear, wearing a brown cloak that hung loosely to his body, entered from the exit near the young senator, his eyes scanning the room. Within moments, he set his eyes on the young senator, and a gleeful smile appeared on his youthful face. His blue eyes lit up at her sight, and he wasted no time in marching silently towards her.
His smile turned to one of supreme confidence in his future actions and he said with a deep, masculine voice unbecoming of his age, "I was under the impression all senators adorned these types of gatherings."
As if a light switch was flipped, her face lit up and she turned to see the young man, her eyes sparkling with a hint of admiration and gratitude. Without wasting a moment longer, she rose out of the chair gracefully and stood to face the man who seemingly saved her from a uneventful night. It was only her years of training that kept her from jumping up like a schoolgirl at the sight of her dearest friend.
Instead, she resorted to taking a few regal steps towards the man in brown and black tunics and gave him a chaste curtsy befitting his status, and said, "Welcome Padawan Skywalker. I was hoping you would arrive."
When she looked up to see his face marred with disappointment, she took another step towards Skywalker and gave him a crushing hug given her size. The look of disappointment quickly reverted to cheerfulness and the hug was returned without a moment's hesitation. After a short time of simply enjoying each other's closeness, they broke apart and stood opposite each other by less than half a meter, their stares entirely focused on the other.
Finally, the silence ended when Skywalker said with a bashful grin, "I wouldn't miss it for the world Pad...I mean, Senator Amidala."
She retorted with a finger pointed right at his face, and a mock look of agitation, which was followed by the young politician saying, "Don't you become like that stuffy Master of yours. You may call me Padmé, Her Highness, Milady, or Her Lordship, but not Senator Amidala."
"Will Angel suffice, your Highness?"
"Always Ani."
Yet again, a short silence followed where neither dared make move, both comfortable with the looks of amusement and friendship each shared. However this one ended when the young man leaned slightly to the side, and motioned with his hand for them to move to the table. Without saying a word, they traversed the short distance, and Skywalker, ever the gentleman, pulled out the chair for her before she could do so herself. She simply looked up at him and gave him a gracious, kind-hearted smile of thanks.
Once he was seated, they leaned in close to each other, forgetting about the events surrounding them, and Skywalker began the conversation with, "So how does it feel being the latest senator for the proud people of Naboo?"
"Wonderful. I couldn't imagine myself doing anything else with my life."
"You must live an empty life, Padmé." Skywalker said sarcastically.
Padmé covered her mouth with her hand in mock outrage, and said with a bemused smile, "Are you mocking my Ani?"
"Oh Force no!" Anakin said while leaning back, his face betraying a gleeful grin, "I'm far too frightened to tease a senator."
Padmé looked down with an amused smile, shaking her head, and said, "You are incorrigible."
She then looked back up and continued, "I must be insane to willingly deal with you."
Anakin simple replied, "Don't be humble Padmé. You're the most insane politician in this madhouse."
Padmé began giggling with his at that, and when she could, she said, "First you make fun of me, now my profession. What's next, my handmaidens?"
Once Anakin began settling down, he said, "Of course not. They're far to pretty to make fun of."
Padmé continued giggling, but a look of something lacking amusement crossed her face for a brief moment before she continued.
Anakin, taking note of her emotional slip, said with a satisfied smile, "Was that jealousy I sensed?"
"No." Padmé said, dragging it out longer than expected, then continued, "I was simply thinking which ones would be most suitable for a dashing young man like you."
"And what was your conclusion?"
"They're all out of your league." Padmé replied with her own satisfied grin.
Before Anakin could think of a witty retort, a wrinkled, old man in dark, billowing robes and a head of grey-white hair approached some the couple's left, then said cheerfully, "Ah Anakin!"
This prompted both to turn their heads and see the man approach, with separate levels of enjoyment of his arrival.
The old man went on saying, "I am sorry I did not greet you earlier my boy. I was left unaware the Jedi would be sending a representative to this gala."
Anakin replied with a smile appropriate of a child receiving the attention it most desires, "Which is why I would greatly appreciate your discretion sir."
"Your secret is safe with me, my boy." the aged man said before he turned to face the senator, inclined his head and said, "Good evening milady."
"Good evening Chancellor Palpatine." Padmé replied as diplomatically as possible while also bowing her head slightly.
Palpatine then turned his head to the right, noticing his attention was being called, and turned back to the couple, saying, "It seems I can't get a moment of rest. I hope to see you soon Anakin."
"And I, you, sir." Anakin replied as the Chancellor turned and began walking away.
Once he was a good distance away, Anakin turned to look at the young senator, and said, "Now where were we?"
"I believe you were about to ask if you can drive me home."
"And may I?"
"As long as you keep it legal Skywalker."she said as she began standing, promoting him to do the same.
Their eyes remained locked, and he continued, "Now where's the fun in that?"
A/N: Please, for the love of all that is holy, review or PM me about this story. I need to know what needs to be fixed, what things are out of cannon, or if you even like it. A few words is all it takes to give me the motivation to keep writing this story. Without reviews, I am going to have to assume that the community doesn't like the story anymore, and will find myself lacking the desire to keep it going.