Disclaimer: I do not own Halo or Battlefront for the idea of this fic ( I'll sue Microsoft for the idea of Halo Wars). Any other original character I portrait in this fic is my original creation.
" ": Dialogue of characters (Hopefully this time the document manager will edit this chapter fine)
Italics: Characters thoughts
War of the Machines
" I'm getting impatient meat bag! " – General Grievous tapped his mechanical leg while waiting for the chief's answer – "What do you have to say?"
The chief remained quiet while he registered Grievous words; just hours ago the Alliance fleet ,led by Fenix; had returned from a successful rescue mission from the covenant and Truth's grasp. Rescuing both the chief and Arbiter plus killing Truth was already too much for one day but now Grievous shows up out of nowhere wanting to join the Alliance. It was just too much to handle.
"All ships open fire!!! "- The Spec ops commander wasted no time to extract revenge against the droid army.
"Wait!!!"- The chief stopped the order, earning a glare from the elite.
"Much better, human" – Grievous smirked.
"It's not that I don't want you dead as well" – The chief added while grievous growled. – "But first, I want to hear your reasons for wanting to join us."
"After trying to kill us all" – The Arbiter added.
Grievous took a moment to recall the events that took him here today. It was humiliating to say the least to have to ask aid to one of his enemies, let alone one that defeated his fleet mere weeks ago.
"Spill it out then!!! "- Half jaw roared.
"I'm on it, damn it!!! " – Grievous snapped – "Well…a few days ago another mechanical faction attacked my fleet, although I managed to solve the situation flawlessly…"
"So that's why you're begging for help"- Kelly muttered.
Grievous sent a death glare to Kelly, but the Spartan II wasn't unfazed. – "Anyway I located the base of these so called machines which call themselves terminators and proceeded to annihilate them, but my fleet was caught in a small problem that left me in disadvantage. Even now what is left of my fleet is battling the enemy on their home planet."
"And let me guess" – Fenix interrupted Grievous – "You want the aid of the alliance to defeat the terminators for you?"
"In other words, do your dirty work " – McKay added.
"Of course not" – Grievous defended himself, but behind his skull-like mask he smirked, something that went unnoticed to everyone, except to the chief and Arbiter. – "It's just that after seeing you fight with such honor and grace against evil to ensure the safety… jajajajaja oh please I cant say these lies, you're right meatbags! I want you to kill the terminators for me. Is that so bad? "
"There's nothing funny about fighting with honor…"- The Arbiter and Halfjaw thought.
"Anyway…"- Grievous stated after his laughter died – "What do you say to my proposal?"
The 5 CIS capital ships easily succumbed against the hundreds of MAC rounds and plasma fire coming from the alliance fleet, 3 ships burst into flames while Grievous ship and his last escort felt the Mac rounds tearing trough the hull. But what unnerved the crew of Fenix ship was the image of Grievous laughing while his death was close.
As grievous image started to turn transparent, the leader of the CIS stopped laughing: -"Did I forgot to tell you; this is just a holocrom transmission. Once I've dealt with the Terminators, you and your pathetic alliance…"
Grievous ship disappeared from sight turning into nothing more than space wreckage. But not before completing his message.
"Commander, we received a text message from Grievous just as the ship exploded."
"On screen."
The chief and the others read the message, not surprised by its content:
'' To the meatbags and other freaks:
Once I've dealt with these cheap copies of my army, I shall return to your planet to skin you alive.
P.S. I'm eager to return the favor, Master Chief.''
"Damn Grievous!"- The Arbiter spoke while he rubbed his arm – "Next time we shall settle the score."
Half jaw smirked as he activated the stellar cartographer – "We might get our chance sooner than we thought."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean this" - The elite pointed to one planet – "These terminators attacked us before we rescued you both. Such sloppy action has not just cost them a fleet, but also the location of their base of operations and in consequence; Grievous location."
"Which means what?"- McKay asked.
"Which means, It's payback time!."
Alliance planet/Ancient City:
Jacob Keyes reread the subspace transmission from Fenix on his datapad. For starters, the news of the rescue of the chief and Arbiter was a relief but now they asked for reinforcements to lead a strike fleet against Grievous and this new mechanical faction.
"Read the good news?" – Cortana's smiling figure appeared in a nearby pedestal.
"As a matter of fact, yes" – Keyes smiled – "you must be relieved to hear the chief's ok"
"More o less" – Cortana tried to hide her joy. – "I wanted so badly to go out there to aid Fenix on the search, but the V-305's had priority for the alliance. So, who's going on this mission? and before you decide, you know who has priority."
"Yes, I know" – Keyes replied – "Delta squad has already been informed, they shall meet me soon for a quick briefing before they set out. But I need someone else as well."
Cortana tilted her head - "Who do you have in mind?"
General Jack O'Neill was the first choice by Keyes to go out on this mission, being a natural and resourceful leader, his experience in guerrilla warfare would come in handy in complement with Delta squad. Unfortunately right now Jack had, as some could say, his hands full.
"Ohhh sirrrr" - Colonel Samantha Carter moaned as O'Neill's experienced hands traveled all around her naked body, producing light moans from her with gentle caresses and one or two bites.
"Call me …Jack" – O'Neill said with some willpower while they took a more comfortable position on top of the panel Carter was busy not long ago.
"I prefer …sir…"
As fate would have it, Jacob Keyes chose that moment to interrupt just as they were about to reach climax. Keyes had his head down looking at the datapad so he didn't catch the sight before him right away.
"General O'Neill, Daniel said Id find…Ohhh!!!"
Jack and Sam fell behind the panel, trying to hide their nudity, while Keyes turned around.
"Don't you knock in your time ?"– Jack asked while he fumbled with his pants.
"Sorry" – Keyes apologized – "It's just that I wasn't expecting this sight. Especially on top of invaluable Ancient equipment"
"Oh that" – Jack said while Keyes glared – "well, it was the spur of the moment. You can't say that hasn't happen to all at some point."
Keyes briefly recalled a similar event when he accompanied Halsey to see a young master chief all those years ago, but he stored the memory back to his place and returned to his current agenda: "Anyway, I need you and your team to accompany Delta squad and a couple of fleets to rendezvous with Fenix to aid them on a special mission"
"Sorry, can't do. Neither can Carter and Daniel "- Jack answered.
"Why not? I know Carter and Jackson had been working on the V-305's , but the fighters are almost ready. I'm sure Seven and Thor can handle the rest."
"Actually sir "-A still hiding and blushing Carter answered from behind the panel.- "Were now working on installing Asgard shielding behind the ancient shielding to provide superior protection."
"And I was selected as a possible pilot" – O'Neill added – "looks like someone found out of my flight expertise."
Keyes ignored O'Neill's smirk and continued – "so I suppose Daniel and Teal'c are busy as well?"
"Daniel is, but Teal'c is loafing around" – Jack answered – "that slacker!"
"Well, there's not much I can do about it. I'll leave you…to your duties" – Keyes replied.
"Yes sir, once you leave sir!" – O'Neill saluted while Keyes looked at him strangely and while Carter just wished the earth opened up and swallowed her completely. Keyes decided just to leave in that moment, leaving the two SG members alone again.
"Well, you heard the man" – Jack said with a grin.
"About the mission?" – Sam asked while Jack tapped the panel – "Oh, that! Jack I highly doubt this is the time for that."
"Come on, were on an ancient city. No one has ever done it on top of an ancient structure"-Jack added –"Well, I'm almost sure of that. Besides, we have privacy on this city , not like in Atlantis"
Sam smiled remembering the time SG 1 and General O'Neill went to visit Atlantis on a vacation tour, since they had more free time after defeating the Ori. The only bad thing was Rodney constantly showing up and his never ending complains. Deciding 'what the heck' Sam and Jack returned to their activities. However, Jack caught a blue image from the corner of his eye; Cortana was there watching them. The Highly advanced Ai winked at O'Neill before vanishing to rejoin Keyes.
"Uh Oh…"
Keyes marched trough a couple of elites, humans and other non human personnel, trying to forget the scene back there and focusing on the mission at hand. SG 1 was out of the picture but maybe Teal'c would be interested in the mission.
"Who's next on the list?" – Cortana's image followed Keyes trough the holo panels in the city.
"I was considering the atlantean team SGA 1 ,but their leader, Major…"- Keyes re-checked his datapad – "I mean, Lieutenant Colonel John Sheppard is also a candidate for a possible pilot of one of the V-305's".
"Not to mention McKay who's also on his team is busy poking his nose in the V-305 project.But maybe we can join the leftovers for a team."
Keyes got the idea and surveyed his datapad – "Ronon Dex and Teyla Emmagan, two natives of the Pegasus Galaxy plus Lieutenant Aiden Ford"
"You might want to exclude him"- Cortana intervened – "According to Weir's report, he was altered by a wraith encounter and could be unstable to say the least."
"But recent reports indicate that he's become more trustworthy, he even rallied a strike team inside the city to defend it when the flood attacked."
Cortana checked the report Keyes mentioned and sighed – "Ok, he can come."
"And finally, Teal'c and Colonel Cameron Mitchel" – Keyes said – "I say we have a team assembled."
"Except Mitchell"- Cortana added – "He's also a candidate for the V-305's. It would seem most members of stargate command are born natural pilots, don't you think?"
"Yes, It seems so" - Keyes checked his datapad -"I also requested the assistance of Matt"-
"You dont mean: Crazy Ackerson's Spartan ?"
"He's more reliable than before" - Keyes replied -" Matt I mean, not Ackerson. I sent him a message to meet Teal'c and his team but so far no answer"
Ackerson reviewed Keyes request to recluit Matt for his suicide mission against the CIS. Instead of declining, he opted to simply throw his datapad out of the higher balcony of the ancient city.
Ronon Dex played with a sharp blade while Teyla and Ford suited up for the mission; he was ready to go when Keyes told them of the mission. As the blade danced between his fingers, his eyes never left Ford's position.
"Could you stop that!" – Ford exclaimed while he loaded his MA5B – "I'm fine now, ever since I got here the Wraith enzyme inside me is under control."
"Who said anything about that" – Ronon stood up and approached him – "We still have unfinished business."
"Oh that!" – ford smirked – "Tell you what; the one that scores more kills in the mission wins. That way we can settle who's best without resorting to violence…sort of speaking."
"Kids, could you stop playing and get ready for the mission" – Teyla shouldered her BR55 and joined them. –"According to Captain Keyes, our temporarily team leader should arrive soon".
"That too, how can Keyes be one of the guys running things around here and still be Captain?" Ford asked.
"And who's this nobody who's going to take Sheppard's place for the time being?"
"That would be the Master Chief for you" – Cortana answered as John Sheppard and Teal'c arrived . – "Well, enough for introductions, Delta squads is up and running waiting for you, so pack up".
"Well, I just came to wish you good luck. Rodney said something about 'don't get killed' . Anyway, off you go."- Sheppard said to his team. Just as everyone left the armory, John stopped Teyla – "Just come back safe ."
"Of course John" – Teyla replied – "Were still up for dinner at 1900 tomorrow?"
"Sure" – Sheppard answered – "maybe tonight if you come back soon."
Fenix Fleet/ Rendezvous Point/ 3 hours later
"Sir."- ensign Laden called Halfjaw – "We're picking up the 17th and 19th fleet approaching our position. ETA 5 minutes."
"Good. Call the Arbiter and The Master Chief to the bridge."- Halfjaw replied –"And once the fleet emerges from slip space tell them to beam the team Keyes sent directly to the bridge."
"Yes sir!"
The chief walked alongside the Arbiter to the nearest grav lift, all the while the Spartan eyed the Arbiter with a weird look.
"They don't have an Arbiter armor on board" – The Arbiter, clad in a gold armor said on his defense –"The only advantage is the superior shielding and longer cloaking time."
"But Cortana could easily upgrade those qualities to your old armor once we get back to the city".
"I know but an Arbiter's armor is something special, the lack of stealth and shield is to boost one's self courage" – The Arbiter said, even though Halfjaw once told him the lack of those qualities was because his armor was old.
"Ehh…yes" – The chief accepted his answer, knowing it was a lie.
Once they reached the bridge they found Halfjaw looking at the outside screen while the arriving fleet emerged from slipspace.
"So good you could join us" – Halfjaw answered. – "I see you have your old armor back."
"Yes" – The Arbiter answered – "It does feels good to have it once again"
"Anyway, we shall head towards Grievous location once the team coming to assist us arrives"
As Halfjaw said that the SgA team plus Teal'c and Delta squad arrived via beaming technology
"Welcome to the Light of the forerunners, humans and clones"
"I'm…"- Ford was about to introduce himself, since neither the chief nor Arbiter had seen him before but Halfjaw stopped him.
"You can introduce to each other in the briefing room, right now Fenix is coordinating the fleet for a jump towards the planet of the Terminators"
Ford said nothing after seeing the elite leader and knowing it was better not to look for trouble with his kind, ignoring his wraith urgencies to do the contrary. Once the light of the Forerunners entered slipspace, Halfjaw led everyone to the Briefing room.
"Chief!"
The master chief turned to Delta 38 Boss as the clone commando cached up with him. 38 withdrew a crystal square from his pocket. – "Here, she told me to give it to you as soon as we arrive."
The chief understood and accepted Cortana's crystal. Thanking 38 the chief proceeded to insert the crystal into his armor slot, feeling the all so familiar presence inside of him.
"Miss me?"
"Yes." - the chief answered. Somehow feeling Cortana a bit different since Thor expanded her lifespan, but different in a good way. –"How about you, did you miss me?"
"Like you don't have an idea" – Cortana admitted – "But , as always, I didn't gave up hope. Neither did Linda"
"I know." – The chief replied –"Good to have you back."
"Anyway, let's go before Halfjaw starts bickering. We can catch up later" – Cortana suggested to the chief while both ran to the briefing room.
The Spartans II and III plus several spec ops elites and Protoss High templars arrived at the Briefing room to discuss the tactics they would use against Grievous and the Terminators. Fenix was busy leading the fleet so the templars would inform him later of the mission.
"Now that everyone's here" - Half jaw eyed the chief -" let's start with the introductions"
"Told you" - Cortana said to the chief.
Halfjaw turned to the arriving team – "You already know these clones , so let's move with the humans"
"It's Delta squad" – Boss sternly replied, but the elite didn't pay him much attention.
Teal'c began being the temporary leader – "I am Teal'c , some of you know me from the training sessions we previously had on the Ancient city" – some nodded. Then Teal'c turned to his team:
"My companions are Teyla Emaggan , my second in command. Lieutenant Aiden Ford and Ronon Dex , from who I do not have a doubt the three of them are experienced and powerful warriors and loyal friends."
"Tell me" – Half jaw turned to SGA – "I know the abilities of the Jaffa, but what do you have to offer?"
"How about a small demonstration? "– Ronon said to Halfjaw.
The spec ops leader brushed aside Ronon's challenge like it was nothing –"Maybe later, if you survive the mission. But tell us what kind of experience do you have that can help us?"
"Well, Ronon is an exceptional warrior when dealing with the Wraith."- Teyla explained –"I can sense Wraith presence whenever they are near or about to arrive and I have aided lieutenant Colonel Sheppard in most missions back at atlantis. And Lieutenant Ford has also aided in various missions , and his Wraith enzyme inside of him gives him a clear advantage in battle."
"This Terran" – A high templar pointed towards Ford – "I detect something unusual with is body energy. Is it this Wraith enzyme the cause?"
"And what about the eye?" – Halfjaw pointed out.
"Ohh ,this" – Ford admitted – "well this appeared after that wraith filled me with the enzyme. I kinda like it, besides, I can see in the night with it."
"Really?"
"Well, no, not really, but I think I can see better at night" - Ford lamely said.
"Oh good! Your abilities are exceptional !"- Half jaw was sarcastic with SGA –"But the truth is we are not facing the Wraith but two droid armies!!!"
"Enough." – The chief took control before a battle would break loose – "SGA along Delta squad have great leading experience that will become useful when dealing with Grievous."
"And besides, we are here to discuss the plan to take out both the CIS and the Terminators. So could we begin" – Cortana told everyone. Once they agreed, Cortana started explaining:
"As far as we know, we only have a tactical advantage against Grievous since the last battle at the ancient city. But we know nothing about these Terminators. So I suggest you let me infiltrate his battle network and take control of his droid army."
"How do you know that his droid army can be controlled so easily?"- The Arbiter asked.
"Simple"- Cortana replied – "The clone army provided us with this Intel, and several AI's detected an unknown signal emanating from their ships in the last battle. I'm guessing Grievous is the only sentient being in the entire CIS army."
"Not bad" – The Spec ops commander admitted – "but I have a better plan: we arrive in the middle of their battle, destroy their fleets and rain destruction to the planet's surface."
"Grievous will expect that, my plan will take him by surprise" – Cortana interjected – "Believe me."
"Fine, but when you plan doesn't work, we'll do things our way"
"Hell yeah !" – Scorch exclaimed – "blow him to smithereens!!!"
General Grievous command ship The Invisible Hand/ Orbiting planet.
General Grievous watched the planet's surface while his army battled the terminators, normally he would be down there rallying his troops but he remained on his ship calmly awaiting the so much needed help.
"Sir" – a battle droid approached him – "our sensors detect an incoming fleet. Scan matches know profiles of Alliance warships"
"Good" – Grievous smiled – "Raise shields, but do not open fire."
"Sir?"
"Obey!!! "- Grievous yelled at the puny battle droid, while the bot nodded and headed to the nearest console. As expected, when the alliance fleet arrived it delivered a heavy payload of plasma and missiles, taking out 20 or so CIS ships.
"So good you could come"- Grievous greeted, completely ignoring his lost ships –"Make yourself at home."
"Something is not right" – Cortana told the chief.
"Grievous, why is your pathetic fleet not trying to avoid the inevitable?" – Halfjaw asked. In truth, the CIS fleet was of 236 ships according to Cortana, while the combined alliance fleet surpassed the 500 ships.
"Good point." – Grievous replied – "as you can see my fleet was severely reduced when I dealt with the terminator's fleet and planetary defenses. But you wont attack me"
"Hahahaha, really?" – Halfjaw asked between laughs – "and why is that?"
"Because when you destroy another of my ships I will transmit the coordinates of your city across this galaxy alerting every Borg , Wraith, Goaul'd, Covenant, Predator, Zerg, Flood and every other race I've forgotten. Which will lead to your ultimate demise?"
"What makes you think we wont kill you before you can send any transmission, or that we cant jam your signals?"- The chief asked.
"The simple fact that any of my ships can send a multiple deep space transmission before any of your AI's can even begin to register it."- Grievous responded with a smile on his face.
"He knows about Ai's?" – Cortana asked the chief – "But how?"
"But since I'm such a good General I have a preposition for the likes of you. You see I've recently discovered a way to defeat the Terminators without loosing most of my army, but unfortunately, I need your help to do it."
"No more games Grievous! Prepare to die!!!"- Halfjaw had enough of Grievous and was about to open fire, but luckily, Fenix was the one I charge.
"You forget I am in command of the fleet" – The Protoss Praetorian said to Halfjaw –"And I decide when to attack and when to stand down."
"Very good Protoss" – Grievous replied – "and just as proof that what I'm saying it's true , here's your home address."
Cortana intercepted the transmission from Grievous ship ,making sure it wasn't a virus or anything nasty she reviewed it and confirmed it. – "Crap! He's right! This details the exact location of our homebase!"
"Any doubts now?"- Grievous asked with a 'I got you' smile.
The chief and Fenix stood there thinking the repercussions this could have to the alliance, the Borg were already heading towards their city but if more fleets arrived there was no way they could survive the attack even with the V-305's in progress.
"You cant be seriously thinking in aiding Grievous?" – The Arbiter asked the chief –"This is clearly a setup! Even If we aid him he will release the coordinates of our base!"
"I know" – The chief replied – "but for now we have no choice. We do this for everyone at the city"- While the Arbiter walked away clearly angry, the chief turned to Grievous –"Very well Grievous, what do you want us to do."
Grievous smirk told the chief this would indeed be a long day.
General Grievous waited along with his personal escort of Magna droids while the first pelican drop ship arrived. The smile of having his way was so ever present in the CIS leader.
As the pelican touched ground, Grievous approached it: - "How good you could come!. I knew you'd see my side of …"-
Grievous, along with the magna guards and dozens of battle droids blew up as the explosive filled pelican was triggered. The 3 remaining phantoms barraged the area with plasma while the chief, Arbiter plus Elites , Protoss, Clones, Spartans II and III swept the remaining battle droids. Once the area was secured the chief spoke:
"Too easy" – The chief turned to the Arbiter – "Arbiter, let's search for Grievous remains."
"No need, meat bag!!!"
Everyone pointed their weapons to Grievous, or at least a holocrom image of him that came walking straight at them. Some elites, clones and even a Spartan III fired at it, but stopped when the image flickered.
"Hold your fire! I said Hold Your Fire!" - Half jaw yelled at Holly. The Spartan III complied, feeling a bit ashamed for her mistake.
"This tears my heart up" – Grievous mocked – "And here I thought we had a connection , a special bond."
"Cant blame us for trying" – Sev said.
"I guess not , but do you really thought I would fall for that"– Grievous roared – "However I shall give you another chance, but first let me show you something" – Grievous called someone to his left, in the holocrom image a regular battle droid appeared.
"Yes sir?"
"See this droid?"- Grievous asked the chief and co. – "In the due case, which I doubt, that I die. Battle droid, ehh…"
"Battle droid 154, sir!"
"Yes, battle droid 154 will transmit via multiple subspace channels the location of your base, alerting all Borg Cubes, Hive ships, Zerg drones…"
"We got the idea the first time" – Boss replied.
"Good. Then let's waste no time and come to my real base of operations. No bombs this time!" -. Grievous stormed out of vision , leaving the battle droid looking between the chief and Grievous. Sev shot the holocrom transmitter and heard the chief:
"Well , let's get moving. The sooner the better."
Reluctantly, everyone returned to their transport. Once on board, Scorch said to everyone:
"I told you we should have used a Nuke!"
Once the 3 Phantoms approached Grievous Base of Operations they could see the difference between the fake one and the real deal; dozens of technounion ships filled the ground while an equal number of droid foundries produced mechanical troops to hold off the terminators while they fought a few miles ahead. The waypoint Grievous gave them lead to a large landing pad where spider droids and dozens of Super battle droids awaited for them.
The chief knew Grievous could wipe them out easily with that kind of firepower. They could easily take out the SBD's and spider droids, but the hundreds of produced droids would overwhelm them before they could take off. Then again, Grievous would surely be exterminated by the alliance fleet in orbit; a planetary bombardment would quell both Grievous plus the Terminators, but the location of the Ancient City would be known by all.
"I know what you're thinking" – Cortana said to the chief. – "Grievous wont betray us, at least for now anyway. He needs us right now."
"Then again, he is a psycho killer android" – The chief replied.
"…Good point ".
As the Phantoms touched down, Grievous approached them: "So good you could come, this time without an explosive surprise"
" We can bring you one if you like" – Ash replied.
Grievous looked around the 30 soldiers and frowned – "I'm afraid I shall need more aid than mere 30 punching bags. Call in the bulk of your army down here!"
"That wasn't part of our deal" – Half jaw replied.
"The deal has changed!."- Grievous replied – "those pesky terminators have increased the production of their regular troops when they detected your fleet in orbit, well done blowing your cover!."
"It was your dumb plan for us to come here!" – The Arbiter yelled.
"Maybe…"- Then Grievous continued – "And second, what are those?"- Grievous pointed to Teal'c, Ronon, Teyla and Ford.
"What does it look like" – Ronon eyed menacely at Grievous while the General returned the favor.
"I said 'special units' not wanabees"
By Grievous remark, Ronon pointed his gun at Grievous head, in so making every SBD target them.
"I told you not to bring him along" – Cortana said to the chief.
Surprisingly, Grievous smirked and ordered the SBD's to stand down. – "Not bad human, you might be of some use after all."- Ronon just lowered his gun, not leaving Grievous sight one bit.
"Enough games for now. Call your troops now while I show you the plan."
Everyone followed Grievous to the inside of his base. As Sev passed Ronon he muttered:
"Show off"
Passing several deepground tunnels and maintenance droids, Grievous led them to a large room with a holographic representation of the battle outside in the middle. Cortana guessed it to be the command central.
"Ahh, I almost forgot" – Grievous turned to the chief who sported an assault rifle.
"Tell us to leave our weapons outside" – The Arbiter turned his plasma sword on –"And this truce is over"
"Not that"- Grievous admitted –"Your primitive weapons are no match for me, I could easily kill you several times before…"
"Could we move on?" - Teal'c intervein.
"Yes, of course" - Grievous replied – "what I was about to say was that forget the idea of your Ai of infiltrating my battle net"- Grievous pointed towards the chief –"And don't play dumb with me! Because I know more of your alliance than you think."-
Cortana's cover revealed, she spoke trough the chief's speakers – "And how do you know that?"-
"Maybe I'll tell you after we've dealt with the Terminators. That is if you're still alive"
"How reassuring" - Boss muttered.
"Now then; let's get to work" – Grievous expanded a holo image showing the basic details of the T-101 terminator units and their prototype T-1000 – "The first schematic shows the regular troop; strong , resistant to projectile weapons but succumbs to plasma and energy weapons with ease. Now this" – Grievous pointed to the T-1000 – "is a more challenging enemy"
"Maybe for you"- Sev replied.
Grievous ignored the interruption and continued – "Apparently, these machines are not as primitive as I originally thought, the T-1000 is liquid metal that can take form of anything that he wants, but the weak point is that it cannot form neither energy nor projectile weapons with his body. Finally, its body needs more firepower to take out and only with energy weapons can this be accomplished. So throw away your bean shooters".
"Bean shooters or not, this weapon was used to drive away your army the first time" – The spec ops commander said.
"Don't worry" – Grievous assured him – "It won't happen again."
" The invading part?"- Scorch asked. Both Grievous and Halfjaw turned to give him a severe look.- "Come on, it's a good question."
"Maybe for you 62"- Fixer said.
"But last but not least" – Grievous spoke – "There are several automated vehicles, two to be precise, one is an airborne fighter propelled by twin turbines and sports a high power energy weapon while the other is a tank-terminator hybrid with two massive turrets on each arm. Both vehicles are rare to find on the battlefield since Skynet dedicates it's resources to create more T-101's and T-1000."
"Skynet?"- Cortana asked.
"Yes, Skynet. Are you deaft?!" – Grievous yelled – "The most crucial part of my plan, and yes what I forgot to explain: I first discovered the existence of Skynet when I captured a functional Terminator. After I took his head off, literally, I discovered a sentient program much like your Ai's and the sole responsible of both creating these machines and extinguishing the humans of its own world. Something remarkably glorious."
"So, if we take out Skynet, then the Terminators will stop functioning?"- Cortana asked.
"Yes. Now I know why you're a highly intelligent construct"- Grievous remarked. Cortana ignored his sarcasm but yet again wondered just how Grievous knew all of this from her.
"So we take out Skynet"- The chief spoke –"And then what?"
"I give you my word"- Grievous raised his hand and put his other one behind him –"I shall let you go in peace."
"And?"- The Arbiter asked.
"I promise to seek you in a distant future to gut you alive" - Grievous responded.
"Not that" – The Arbiter said – "the location of our base?"
"Ahh, yes. I wont reveal it. Because I will be the only one that can be allowed to kill you all. That is if you survive the imminent Borg armada that's coming your way"- Grievous explained.
"Alright! You know too much of the Alliance. Start talking!!"- Cortana abruptally ordered.
"Remember Ai" – Grievous turned to the chief and cortana – "You're here to serve me in exchange for my silence. Besides, aid me and maybe I'll tell you how I found out all of this"
Cortana muttered some heavy words that only the chief caught, resigning and by persuasion from the chief, Cortana agreed. – "Then let's do this already"
Scorch played with a thermal detonator, throwing it up and down to entertain himself while some ODST's, McKay and SGA gear up with special clone armor. The basic white armor could withstand a few plasma shots, and judging by what Grievous told them, they will need it.
"This is boring" – Scorch spoke – "Come on,let's just go and blow these sons of machines already"
"Patience is a virtue" – Sev spoke words of experience after countless hours he waited as a sniper to take out important Geonosian leaders, and learning that patience had it's rewards like seeing heads disappearing in a poof of gore. – "Then again, you're a walking time bomb"
"Hey!"
"Knock it off"- Fixer replied after helping Teyla suit up – "We'll all get some action soon enough"
"Not the kind of action I want" – Sev replied, eyeing Teyla and McKay – "But killing droids will do, for now…"
"Hardly" – Scorch said, failing to get Sev's perverted message. Getting tired of the catching explosive, Scorch instead started activating and deactivating the thermal detonator on his hand.
Fixer took the explosive from his hand and put it inside his belt pouch – "Don't do that again."
"Getting nervous Fixer" – Scorch teased.
"Just saving our lives , 62" – Fixer pointed towards the hundreds of weapons inside the armory.
"Oh, yeah. Sorry"
"So what you're telling me is that you will help Grievous in exchange of his silence"- Keyes said to the chief, Cortana, Arbiter and Fenix via subspace transmission. – "I guess this is sort of late to tell you, but recently we have discovered that the city can be moved."
"What?" – Cortana asked – "But how? And why no one told me this sooner? I've been inside it's mainframe and I've never found out about this"
"Well" – Keyes tapped his pipe – "Rodney told us recently after your first message, apparently he forgot to mention it."
"This terran. I'm starting to have my doubts with him" - Fenix admitted.
"But what about…"
"The ancient data repository is vast" – The arbiter responded to Cortana – "So far we have been unable to even begin to understand a 5 of it. Don't worry about it."
"Easy for you to say" – Cortana replied – "I have a reputation to uphold"
"Well then. Pack up and return to the city. And before you leave don't forget to leave Grievous some kiloton gifts" - Keyes said to the group.
"Actually sir, we cant do that just yet" – The chief told him.- "We still need to solve some issues regarding this Intel Grievous has of us, and Cortana has a plan."
"A plan?" – Keyes asked – "I'm listening."
"Well" – The chief started – "first we'll play along with Grievous on his idea of destroying Skynet, but once we reach the source Cortana will take care of Skynet and replace it with one of our own Ai's."
"Instantaneously giving us a terminator army of our own" - Cortana added
Keyes considered it, but then again the chief and Cortana had pulled out crazier stunts in the past.- "Very well, just keep me informed and be careful. Grievous obviously will try to kill you the moment an opportunity appears. Keyes out."
"He's informed, now let's go back down there and do it " - The Arbiter said to the chief.
"Yes" – The chief agreed – "And Cortana"
"Huh"
"What Ai will you have to replace Skynet?"
"I've already found the perfect one"- Cortana said with a smile.
"Are you sure you want to risk it?" – McKay said to Wesley, her tactical Ai.
"Of course Major, I am more than happy to help on this matter. Besides I will still be around to help you on any occasion".
McKay had her doubts on this plan, but for now she would help on anything she could. The chief and the Arbiter arrived at the armory to join the Spartans II, III, Delta squad, SGA and the small group of spec ops elites and ODST's, all armed with an array of plasma weapons.
"Hey John, over here"
The chief joined Sam, Kelly and Linda where the rack of Dc-17's stood. Grabbing one, the chief studied it.
"This weapon is kinda cool" – Kelly said with her own one.
"And has a sniper attachment" – Linda said to John. The chief could tell with her smile she was happy to have another variation of sniper technology.
"Well, you're already instructed in the use of the Dc-17" – Fixer said to the Spartans.- "So grab one and plenty of ammo."
"Because were going on a droid hunt"- Sev added.
General Grievous awaited outside with his personal escort of Magna guards and two SBD teams while 10 republic star destroyers landed to release the clones selected to aid the CIS army. A position every clone hated.
5 phantoms reached Grievous to deliver the chief and company. They would go trough tunnels built beneath the surface to reach the source of Skynet.
"I've been analyzing the tunnels that we'll take to reach Skynet" – Cortana spoke- "based on my analysis, Skynet didn't arrive here to invade Grievous but rather it was Grievous who started the invasion."
"Thanks for pointing the obvious"- Grievous joined in their conversation –"But what are you going to do about it?"
"Nothing"- Cortana admitted – "just wanted to let clear that you're still our enemy".
Arc trooper 696 was loading his blaster pistols when 38 joined him:
"You know the plan" – Boss told 696
"Yep. I'll keep our boys alive" – Indicating the clones in the battlefield – "while you take out skynet."
"Then, all bets are off"- Boss told him. 696 nodded and slammed his arm with Delta 38. Once the Terminators are under Alliance control, 696 would turn their attention to the CIS army.
"Well" – Scorch said to Grievous – "wish us luck"
"Hardly" – The CIS general admitted – "but I wont have to, since I shall join you on this mission"
"That wasn't the plan"- Halfjaw said.
"The plan has changed" – Grievous replied –"And I will be bringing some of my most loyal…"
"Toys?" – Spartan III Ash said, pointing to the droids.
"Very funny"- Grievous said – "Like it or not you have no choice" - Then Grievous approached the chief and leveled his gaze to his helmet – "or are you scared of me?"
The chief took the safety of his assault rifle and met Grievous gaze –"Hardly…"
"Good" - Grievous replied- "Now don't expect an easy trip, because once we enter these tunnels there is no going back. From that point on it will be a true hell…"
Thousands of clones and droids fought against an equal number of T-101's in the field , the battle was a par for the time being with both sides taking losses, but ultimately it was Skynet who lost the more numbers. What Grievous predicted was true; it was a true Hell…just not for them.
A very irritated Delta squad plus Halfjaw walked trough the tunnels for what seemed like an eternity with no enemy contact, the Spartans were calmed but eager at the same time for a battle but for the last two hours it was nothing but pure boredom.
"Dear god" – Ash said to the Spartans via private comm. – "What I wouldn't do to be up there right now".
Dante and his own team agreed while the veteran Spartans II couldn't help but crack a smile at the young Spartan III's vigor.
"So" – Grievous joined the chief –" How is that old town you call the Alpha base, it's been a long time since my last visit"
"Oh god." – Cortana muttered to the chief – "Don't tell me he wants to start a conversation".
The chief agreed with Cortana's words – "It's the Ancient city" – The chief told Grievous.
"And we have a new ancient drone system up and running" - Cortana added – "Why don't you come when you have a chance to see it"
"Those shield bypassing drones?" – Grievous asked – "No thanks, maybe another time".
"Again with the illegal Intel " – Cortana said –"You will tell us how you know all of this".
"My little secret for now" – Grievous replied.
"Maybe there's one of your spies inside our city" - Cortana replied –"That must be it!"
"Suuure, an inconspicuous droid between thousands of meatbags and other freaks" - Grievous replied.
The chief shook his head as Cortana and Grievous continued their 'small' chat. – "And she was the one that didn't want a conversation".
Sam and The Arbiter ,who had taken the lead after Grievous and the chief dragged behind, suddenly stopped. The gold clad elite looked around while Sam gestured to the others to get ready for anything.
"You know you're one hell of a bitch!!!" - Grievous yelled – "I don't know how this human can tolerate you!!!"
"For your information ,you aren't the most graceful person to be with!!!"- Cortana yelled–"And you're one to talk about humanity since you've lost every part of your body, Including your reproductive organs!!!"
"My what?! "
"I think she means your balls"- Scorch answered to Grievous while Delta squad, several ODST's, and surprisingly Ronon had to suppress a small laugh.
"Why You…!!! "
Grievous didn't finish his sentence because several giant liquid teardrops fell from above. The chief and the others opened fire almost instantly recalling the Intel on the T-1000's. The ODST's rifles were not as efficient as the energy weapons, but the energy shots that hit home only brushed burned metal on their surface.
The chief switched his Assault rifle for his DC-17 and let loose a barrage of blaster fire alongside other Spartans and Elites. Several T-1000's reached their targets and chopped away as their limbs became sharp blades, the screams of agony of several ODST's and elites filled the tunnel
The SBD's also shared the same fate, but for the Magnaguards it was another story; these droids moved at frightening speed and disabled the T-1000's with their electro staffs. The chief noticed that these droids had several battle scars, nothing serious, but it could easily be repaired and it made them look older.
"Come at me Now!!!" - Grievous roared as he activated two lightsabers and jumped into the fray, the blue and green blades sliced the liquid metal terminators into several small pieces. Some of them tried to merge back together but the SBD's fried the metal with blaster fire. Some T-1000's surrounded Grievous, but the CIS General revealed his hidden hands with a red and blue lighsaber and easily removed them from his sight with a beautiful yet deadly spinning wheel.
"Impressive… "- Even Halfjaw admitted. In another time Grievous would have been an invaluable ally but for the atrocities he committed when he attacked them that was never going to happen.
"Chief!!!" - McKay fired her battle rifle and joined him – "We have to move to a more closed off space".
The chief got the idea: if they forced these T-1000's into a bottleneck it was just a matter of filling that spot with blaster fire, that way they could take them out with minor losses.
"What?!" - Grievous watched as the alliance soldiers ran further ahead to a nearby access tunnel. Getting the idea he did the same. As they position themselves, Cortana discovered something:
"That gate" – Cortana motioned the chief to the entrance they just crossed – "It still has power, thinking what I'm thinking?"
"Yes" - The chief was about to close it, but discarded the idea when the SBD's, Magnadroids and Grievous crossed it.
"Oh Hell"
Anyway, Cortana told Spartan III Lucy, the closest to the door, to close it. The T-1000's tried to bring it down but found it useless. When the liquid metal began flooding its way in, everyone opened fire. Scorch and Fixer primed some EC detonators and toss them to the door where the T-1000's loss their consistence and turned into inert liquid metal.
"You know, they could have used those back there" – Cortana said to the chief.
"Well, that was fun" – Ford said to the others. As they returned to their original mission, this time on the double, Ford cached up with Ronon- "3 kills"
"Five" - Ronon replied with a smirk.
"Who cares" – Ford replied – " Those wont be the only terminators to appear"
"Yep"
Indeed, as Ford said, more T-1000's appeared in their way. Apparently, Skynet considered them a threat and dedicated it's prototype soldiers to eliminate the combined forces of the Chief and Grievous. Without the T-1000's and with the 13th squadron (The Wrath of the clones) leading the clones, the battle upstairs was turning in favor for the clones and droids.
"Almost there" – Cortana said to the group while she coordinated with Wellington inside McKay's armor for her plan.
"Strange" – The Arbiter spoke – "This, of all places, should be more protected than the rest"
"It could be a trap" – Boss added.
"Nonsense!!" – Grievous replied – "The reason is that Skynet used most of his T-1000's , but before he can create more I shall destroy him!"
"Right" - Cortana replied – "Leaving you as the only droid faction besides the Borg, that is"
"Now that you mention it" - Grievous tapped his mechanical hand on his chin – "I recently found another machine like faction inside this war."
"Another one?" - Halfjaw asked.
"This race proved to be almost as aggressive as my army, but nonetheless they will crumble like you…I mean, like the terminators" - Grievous replied – "Because of their replicating abilities when they invaded one of my ships, which I successfully recovered, I condemned them not worthy to join me and my army"
Those words caught the attention of Teal'c- "What do you mean by…"
Before Teal'c could finish his question, several T-X appeared out of nowhere and took the group by surprise. As they returned fire against the most advanced terminator unit, one got them jump on the chief. The more feminine terminator disabled the chief's shields and started chocking him.
"John!!! " - Linda switched her DC-17 sniper attachment and fired 4 straight rounds at the T-X but somehow the female terminator was unfazed. Linda switched to assault and ran to aid him while firing. The chief tried to pry her off of him but she was as strong as he is. Just as everything was going dark, a lightsaber tip appeared trough the T-X face mere inches from the chief's helmet.
"What the?!"
The chief, Cortana and Linda watched as Grievous grabbed the T-X and tossed her away, then he impaled her to a wall with four lightsabers.
"I don't believe this" – Cortana said to the chief – "Did Grievous just helped us?"
The chief and Linda just stood there as Grievous turned to him and said – "A thank you would suffice."
"Why?"- The chief asked.
"Well, because I've just helped you and…"
"Not that, why did you helped me?"
"Because" – Grievous approached both John and Linda – "No one get´s to kill you but me. That is why!"- Saying that, Grievous joined his Magnaguards in battle.
"You know" – Cortana said to John and Linda –"That's just what I imagined he would say"
Both Spartans II nodded, then the chief spoke – "Were almost near Skynet, so we know what to do"
Cortana acknowledged and transmitted via private comm. to everyone – "First chance you get, take out Grievous. I repeat: safety's off , take out Grievous at sight"
"With pleasure" – Ronon and Sev said in unison and both raised their weapon but Grievous was nowhere in sight.
Meanwhile with Grievous:
"First chance you get, kill them!!!"
The Magnaguards nodded to Grievous and returned to fight while their General headed towards skynet source. The CIS General sliced his way inside the core with his dual lightsabers, cutting away a circular entry and kicking it down. As he entered, grievous got a look inside.
"I expected more"
Grievous looked around to find a relatively advanced construct supported by an assortment of technopanels. Grievous smirked as he raised his lightsabers to end Skynet, but that would have to wait until he dispatched the 6 T-X before him.
"As I said before" – Grievous extended his four arms, lightsaber in each of them.- "I expected more, Much more Skynet!!"
The chief , Linda and McKay ran towards the core of Skynet to allow Cortana to take out the Terminator construct and replace it with the ODST Ai, Wellington. From afar they saw Grievous slice down a T-X in half and turning his attention to the other 3 remaining.
"Grievous will try to take out Skynet. We have to hurry!!!"
"Understood" - The chief replied to Cortana. Grievous tore down another T-X and turned to the chief.
"I'm not decent! " – The General punched the controls in the door to seal it, blocking the chief outside.
"Damn!"- McKay checked the steel door that separated them from Skynet.- "We have to get in there before Grievous destroys Skynet!"
"Not really" - Cortana spoke – "From here I can delete Skynet and replace it with Wellington. Just give me a moment to interface."
While Cortana executed her plan, Grievous grabbed the two remaining T-X by the head and slammed them to a wall. - "Don't move, I'll need you functioning soon."- Extending one of his extra arms, Grievous extracted a small spider like droid from his body and tossed it to Skynet's core. The spider droid stood on 6 legs and began interfacing with Skynet.
"Got it!"- Cortana said to the group –"Wellington is inside"
Indeed, the ODST tactical Ai was inside and absorbed Skynet's remains, gaining control over the remaining terminators and their foundries. Or at least for the moment: the spider droid Grievous released was a construct of his own; one that had the same idea than Cortana.
"Interesting" – Grievous mused as he struggled with the two T-X's.- "He could be useful"
Outside the core room:
"Wellington how is it going?" – Cortana said by comm. to the former Skynet core –"I repeat, how are things down there?"
" Pretty good" – Wellington replied.
"Good" – Cortana replied – "If you have control over the Terminators then reroute them to attack the droid army, I'll contact Arc trooper 696 to support you."
"Good plan" – Grievous spoke as the door was open by Wellington, revealing the CIS general alongside the two T-X he spare. – "But I have a better one. Kill then!!!"
The T-X acknowledged and fired napalm and plasma to the Spartans and McKay. Linda grabbed McKay and took her to cover while the chief avoided the plasma and returned fire with his Dc17.
"Wellington, what the hell is happening?!" Cortana yelled to the Ai.
"I'm afraid this Wellington has seen my side of things – "Grievous said as he watched his new toys doing battle with the chief. – "You see, this was my plan all along. I'm surprised you thought the same, but better for me since your Ai is certainly more adept for military tactics. My own construct is more than pleased to add wellington's subroutines into his own. Hahahaha!!!"
"Chief" - The Arbiter yelled by comm. while plasma was exchanged in the background –"The T-X's are siding with the droids over here. Why is this happening?! Wasn't your Ai going to control them?!"
"Yes chief " – Grievous turned his lightsabers and ran towards the chief – "Why is this happening?! "
Grievous slashed vertically forcing the chief to absorb some shots from the T-X as he rolled to the left. The chief switched to antiarmor and fired at the T-X temporarily stunning her. Grievous turned and double slashed but the chief was fast on his feet, knowing well that those blades meant certain death if touched by them.
"What's the matter human!" - Grievous moved his sabers in perfect unison- " have you lost your touch, or was our last fight mere luck for you!"
"Damn it"- The chief thought – " Inside this narrow space I can't keep dodging him."
Linda tossed her last EC detonator to stop the T-X and together with McKay they filled the terminator with blaster fire. Acting quick, she switched to sniper and fired at Grievous like last time, but the general was ready this time.
"That won't work twice! "- Grievous called in more T-1000's from Wellington to deal with her, while he focused his attention to the chief – "Where were we? "
"Chief, I can't bypass Wellington's firewall! "- Cortana said inside his head – "And I'm detecting more T-X's on our way".
More T-X´s plus several Magnaguards appeared to assist Grievous in dealing with the Alliance forces. Just then, Grievous lunged at the chief - "Time to cut our losses. Cortana call for evac" – The chief replied as he stopped Grievous from decapitating him.
"What memories" – Grievous said as the chief grabbed Grievous arms to stop the blades from reaching him –" But we know how this ended last time"- Grievous extra hands grabbed each a lightsaber from his cape and horizontally slashed but the chief ,along with McKay and Linda were beamed away with Asgard technology. – "What!?"
Arc trooper 696 rallied his clones back to the ships while they fought back the merged droid-terminator army. In the heat of battle, the two mechanical armies stop attacking each other and overwhelmed the clone army. Suffering heavy losses, 696 had no choice but to flee to save the remaining lives on the planet surface.
"Fenix to all forces on the ground, Evac immediately! We are going to bombard the surface once you take off"
"You heard him, get back to the ships!"- 696 helped a wounded clone and ran back along dozens of clones to the Star destroyers, taking out the droids on their way.
The chief and company appeared inside the Asgard ship Beowulf, Cortana had called in for evac just as Grievous was reaching for his lightsabers.
"Spartan 117, Fenix has began positioning the fleet in orbit" – The Asgard behind the console said as he moved his ship into position.
"Damnit!!!"- Halfjaw punched a console feeling the humiliation for being manipulated by Grievous.
"Please, Don't do that again" - The Asgard said to Halfjaw.
"Grievous. He used us to gain control of Skynet "– The Arbiter said to his team – "for that we shall destroy this entire planet!"
The chief couldn't agree more. Left uncheck, Grievous could cause Havoc with his new army, they had to end this right now.
" Spartan 117" - The Asgard spoke -"We are receiving a transmission from the planet. CIS origin"
"Grievous!!" - The Arbiter sneered.
The chief walked next to the Asgard to see the transmission. Indeed it was Grievous on the core room of Skynet, or where the construct once was. -" As you can see meatbag, the terminators are mine now. And I never expected you to run as cowards from a battle"
The chief walked next to the Asgard to see the transmission. Indeed it was Grievous on the core room of Skynet, or where the construct once was. -" As you can see meatbag, the terminators are mine now. And I never expected you to run as cowards from a battle"
" What do you want? "
" I am detecting your fleet positioning over my planet " – Grievous explained -"Call them off and leave my sight "
" Is the mighty General afraid of dying? " – Halfjaw teased.
" Why don't you tell me? " – As Grievous asked that question, hundreds of CIS ships jumped into the system. The CIS fleet had time to regroup after their battle at the ancient city, but only the 70 percent was operational. However it was large enough to take on Fenix combined fleet.
" All ships engage " – Fenix wasted no time to give the order.
" You do know that both of our fleets will destroy each other " – Grievous said to Fenix and the chief -" And as much as Id like to destroy you right now. I have greater plans for the future. Let us both follow our own paths for now"
" Of course " – Halfjaw replied - " How foolish of us. Burn his fleet now!!! "
" Remember chief; I saved your life, you owe me " – Grievous said. - " What do you decide? "
Indeed, Grievous saved the chief's life, but the chief just couldn't let him leave like that. Then again this was a no win situation for neither of them, a factor Grievous foresaw, and right now the alliance needed every ship they could spare to defend the city from the Borg.
Fenix saw the chief's expression and decided to follow his lead -" Your call Terran "
The chief saw into Grievous eyes while the Arbiter, Halfjaw and the others protested on the back. Win or no win situation there was little choice to take - "…let's go"
Grievous eyes narrowed in satisfaction after hearing the chief -" We are even now. Next time we meet, we shall fight to the death. "
As the Alliance fleet disengaged from the planet's orbit, the discontent amongst the ranks was present but they understood they had bigger problems to face for now.
" You know, even if it feels we did the wrong thing, you did the right thing John " – Cortana said to him.
" I hope you're right " – The chief replied.
" I am John " – Cortana replied " We cant always win every battle. But we will win the ones that matter. After we've dealt with the Borg, we shall finish our battle with Grievous. "
General Grievous watched as the Alliance fleet engaged slipspace and disappeared from sight. - " You know; I never did tell them where I got my Intel "
" They'll find out " – Sahian said as he joined Grievous - " I just hope they do soon. Before he sells them out to their enemy"
UNSC ship Point of no Return/ 548 lightyears away from the Alpha site:
" So, these Borg shall arrive at your planet in mere days "
" Yes your highness. I have no doubt that the so call Alliance the Demon has formed will survive the siege, but they shall be weak enough for you to come and finish the job. "
" You are an interesting human, Ackerson " – The High prophet of Truth replied from his live feed back. The transmission was highly protected to ensure no one aboard the Point of no Return except Ackerson and several ONI admirals knew about it.
" Just honor your promise to spare some of us humans to keep on existing under the fold of the covenant. " – Ackerson reminded.
" Of course, you have my word " – Truth replied - " But I'm curious to know why have you decided to obey me"
" As humans say your highness; ever since the beginning of the war between our races I knew we could never win nor survive against you so If you cant beat them, join them…"
Authors notes:
September 24 / 2007 / 0402 hours
The date when I finished this chapter, and as most of you know; Halo 3 comes out (finally!!!) tomorrow so this chapter will be the last for a few months while I kick ass with the chief and the Arbiter. I would like to explain more about this chapter but Im dead tired so Im signing off.
Next chapter: I shall explain any loose ends from this chapter and answer any of your questions.
As you know, the Borg will arrive at the Alliance planet but (as Grievous mentioned) a new mechanical faction will also appear on the fic next chapter. Which one could it be hunterelite?.
Read and Review (by the way I would like to everyone that has reviewed since because of you my fic has reached the 100 ( and one) reviews. Let's keep the 1000 review dream alive.