Due to an intense new schedule and recent drama, my time on fanfiction will be shorter than before. I am sorry for the inconvenience but there's nothing I can do. I truly care about getting an education and I don't care how uncool that is, it's the only chance I have at getting a job back home and this is a great opportunity that I am not willing to pass up. Updates will be longer, I am sorry about this and I hope you understand, believe me, I've been waiting to do the Halo 3 Campaign for a while.
The Start of the End
Shress POV
Michael pauses before the door and becomes as still as a statue.
She walks up close to him and looks the Spartan over.
In his armor with him not moving, he doesn't seem to be alive. The green armor and the feature less face plate gives nothing away. It is in moments like this that unnerves her sometimes, it reminds her of when she used to believe that the Spartans were emotionless monsters.
She pushes this thought to the side, slightly chiding herself for forgetting who it is exactly that is under the armor.
"Michael?" she asks as she steps up next to him as she stares down at him, "is there something wrong?"
He doesn't move a muscle, but slowly he looks up at her as if seeing her for the first time. Then he reaches out his hand and takes hers with it. She squeezes in turn, giving a sign that she is listening.
"I hate this," he says softly, forcing her to strain her hearing a bit.
"Hate what?" she asks perplexed, they were just walking a moment ago.
He squeezes her hand again.
"This," he repeats again, "I hate it when we have to leave."
Seeing her still puzzled face he jerks his head towards the portal.
"Once we step through the door we can't be together," he says in a solemn voice, "it isn't unless we are alone can we be with one another, to feel," he looks her square in the face, "or even just seeing each other without the image being obscured."
She considers this before sighing as she sees the reasons to his displeasure. True most of the ship no doubt has heard the stories and the confirmation of their courting, but the prospect of being watched closely is a depressing one.
Through the cycles she never really cared what people thought of her, a trait she learned soon enough when it became obvious nobody supports the idea of there being a female Zealot. However this is different, it's far more personal and it puts a certain light on her suitor. This is no longer about just her, but the one she loves as well, they are used to being stared at, but that was out of fear and weariness. Now it's as if the people's disapproval and stun emotions follows them around like a shroud that envelops them wherever possible.
Her little play with Dinjit earlier was humorous when they made him uncomfortable and forced him to leave. Now though it isn't as funny seeing how that is likely to happen more often then they would like.
With that in mind she responds to her suitor's troubles by moving her head closer to his helmet and speaking delicately.
"I hate it as well," she admits, "but take heed Michael, we'll still be together and…though I will miss the thrill provided by kissing," she feels heat rising to her face as she says so but ignores it, "at least we'll still be together."
"Until you father stabs me," Michael says in turn, earning an agitated huff from her and a friendly swat to his head. She hears a small chuckle and this pleases her for a moment before they become serious again.
"Until next time then," she says sadly as she releases his hand.
Michael nods his head in answer.
She then turns to open the door and hesitantly she keys the command and the portal unravels for them.
The control room looks the same as the last time since the couple have been there. Multiple Sangheilis are working on consoles, guards standing close to the doors armed with a combination of firearms and energy pikes while on a raised platform in the middle of the room resides the most powerful people onboard the ship.
Pacing around the podium is her father, Shipmaster Hath'ras, clearly in a stormy mood since he is clutching his energy sword in his hand.
Watching him closely is his bond mate Mora who is standing beside herself, hands at her side, but with tense shoulders as if she is waiting for something bad to happen.
The Arbiter is watching the Sangheili deck crew working, occasionally calling out to one of them and asking a question about the ship or for any news on other war fronts before allowing the crew member to return to his duty.
Standing away from most of the commotion are the two human leaders. Johnson is standing with a hand carefully resting on his sidearm while his critical eyes observe the room, keeping an open mind to any and all possible threats.
Commander Keyes on the other hand has her arms cross and wearing a neutral face save for a light frown that her mouth is set in. Out of everyone present, she seems to be the only one capable of keeping her composure.
Shress nervously gulps before walking forward, Michael right next to her, making sure he is moving at the same pace as her.
Almost as one, the leaders on the platform looks up and stares at the new arrivals.
The Shipmaster looks away with a disgusted retching sound and returns to his earlier activity, noticeably holding his sword more tightly, threatening to activate it at a moment's notice.
Mora on the other hand gives them both a small smile. Though it's barely noticeable, the small act nevertheless causes Shress's hearts to ache a bit. Being back with her mother on speaking terms again fills Shress with content. Even if her relationship with her blood kin can be at times strenuous, it's a comfort knowing that she at least have one member of her family that cares for her.
Johnson welcomes them with a smirk and a mischievous look in his eyes. Shress is still unsure if the man is purposely insulting them or if he simply sees the whole incident as amusing. Either way it's taking a lot of restraint for her not to growl a warning at him.
Keyes looks as indifferent as ever. How she is able to remain calm throughout the recent madness is a mystery.
The two of them reaches the podium and stood together, neither moving. Hesitantly, Mora steps towards the young couple with unsure steps and with a quick glance at Hath'ras. He doesn't object but Shress is sure she isn't exaggerating when she spies the look of malice in her father's eyes.
She feels a snarl threatening to escape but she retains it for now. Shouting at one another won't change a thing, especially now that they have more important matters to be concerned about.
Mora steps next to them and nods to them. Shress returns the gesture while Six remains still.
"We are approaching the human world of Earth," Mora tells them, "The Fleet of Sacred Consecration remains intact despite our warriors breaking away from them, so be ready for battle."
Shress nods before answering, "I am always ready mother."
Mora eyes her closely before looking at her suitor.
"What of your own thoughts Spartan?"
"Ma'am," he says as he stands up straighter, "I'm set."
She blinks at him before glancing at Shress, "are you sure this is your suitor?"
Shress couldn't help but grin, "indeed mother, this is a habit I have yet to break from him."
Her mother in turn smirks at this when they notice that the human leaders are now approaching them.
"Finally got sick of each other Six?" Johnson asks as he stands on the other side of the Spartan, "or are you merely binding your time until you two are alone again before returning to life?"
For once, Shress agrees with the Sergeant. She understood the reason why her suitor must be prepared for a fight at a moment's notice, but he concerns her when he transforms himself into the likeness of a dispassionate being.
Before Michael could reply, his Commander waves her hand, "later Johnson," she orders, "we have more pressing matters to deal with."
At this the Spartan looks at Keyes before saying, "Commander, do we know Truth's exact destination?"
"We do," she answers with a nod of her head, "the Portal was uncovered in the vicinity of New Mombasa, close to the town of Voi."
"Portal ma'am?" Michael asks as he looks at Shress. She in turn shakes her head, baffled as he is in what the female leader was talking about.
"While the two of you were making fond memories," Johnson says lightly, not noticing how Michael had stiffen at his words for reasons unknown to Shress, "we debriefed the head honcho over there," he jerks his chin in the direction of Shress's father, "that Truth is heading to find another Forerunner object that will give him a one way ticket to the Ark."
"The Ark?" Shress questions next. As a Zealot she knew the names of most Forerunner symbols, relics and titles but she has never heard of any such object being referred to as an Ark.
"The humans, as well as the Arbiter, has informed us of it," Mora explains to her daughter, "The Ark is a device that can activate all the Halo Rings in the galaxy."
"If Truth gets a hold of it, then the whole flipping galaxy will blow like a pinnate," Johnson finishes, for once his voice grave, "then it's game over," he looks between Shress and Michael, "for everyone."
Shress is momentarily speechless. She knew the power that a single Ring had and its destructive capabilities. To think of more than one going off and how that in turn will affect them all…it will destroy everything and everyone. What they are doing now, she, Michael and the rest of their species, will decide the fate for every living soul in the galaxy.
Slowly and without thinking, her hand reaches out and grabs Michael's who squeezes it in light reassurance. She didn't care if people are watching, she just needed to know her Suitor is with her, that she isn't the only one suddenly feeling small and alone.
Michael himself is silent for a few moments, probably processing the information before looking at Keyes again, "Ma'am, why didn't you tell us this earlier?"
Finally the female's composure breaks as she scowls at the Spartan.
"I was planning to Lieutenant," she all but growls out, "but you were a little preoccupied with…other things," she pauses and glances at Shress.
The Zealot shifts from one foot to the other while looking at the floor, feeling mildly embarrassed. If Michael is feeling the same way, he doesn't show it.
"Shipmaster," one of the crew members calls out from his console, "we are approaching our destination."
Hath'ras is still sporting a evil look, but he bobs his head in acknowledgment before barking out, "have everyone at their stations, alert the passengers and be prepared for battle!"
There is a chorus of "Yes Shipmaster" before the deck becomes livelier as the crew rushes to fulfill the orders.
The tension is contagious, it isn't long before the small group on the podium feel themselves loosening their own muscles while those who had weapons were running their hands on them for assurance that they are still there.
Michael has released Shress's hand and begins flexing his fingers in anticipation for combat. He may be her loving suitor, but he was created for war.
She follows his lead and readies herself. The last time she fought it was against the Flood, a terrifying experience that she doesn't wish to repeat again.
Moments later there is a subtle jerk the ship makes before the ship returns to a normal speed.
"We have arrived Shipmaster," one of the crew members announces.
Hath'ras merely nods in acknowledgment as he stops his pacing and gives the next order.
"Raise the exterior blast shields."
"Yes Shipmaster," came a reply from the mass of workers.
A unit later, a large portion of the wall in front of the podium slowly retracts to reveal the vast galaxy before them while the energy shielding prevents them from flying out. The sight was beautiful yet terrible at the same time.
In the sea of stars, laying directly before the Cruiser was a large green and blue orb shroudeded in dense cloud coverage. Shress observes the planet closely. This is her second time viewing the planet and it has not changed much, but for some odd reason she feels that it has. The man that she loves had originated from this world, this is where he is from. She doesn't feel a certain attachment towards it, just some form of acknowledgment.
Her eyes are drawn away from Earth when she sees the bright color of plasma as it cut through the darkness. She then sees the raging battle that is taking place before them. Covenant ships are engaging with human vessels, dull grey steel clashing against brightly glowing hulls. Burning plasma torpedoes tore towards their human targets while great slabs of rounds slams against the shields of the Covenant's vessels. In the distance a great ball of fire erupted in space and consumed two Cruisers and a human spacecraft. The scene can only be described as pure insanity.
"Well there's something you don't see every day," Johnson speaks up.
Shress releases a sigh as she nods her head, "even during the battle for your planet of Reach, it wasn't this chaotic."
Keyes then chose that time to step towards Hath'ras.
"Shipmaster," she says respectfully, "we need to make contact with our people now."
Hath'ras gives her a brief glare before turning back to the crew.
"Maintain a distance from the battle," he instructs, "but be prepared to repel boarders and ready our weapons."
There is another roar of acknowledgment before the Shipmaster addressed one crew member specifically.
"Giltras," he calls out, "search for a human signal and prepare a transmission."
The indicated Sangheili scowls at the instructions, but performs the action without complaint. When a Shipmaster gives an order it must be carried out, especially if they are on the Shipmaster's ship.
While all this is happening, Johnson speaks up again.
"Is it just me or is something missing," he asks as jerks his chin towards the fight, "or more specifically, someone?"
It took Shress a unit to fully understand Johnson's words before she asks, "You mean Truth?"
"Right," the Sergeant confirms, "where's he at?"
Keyes frowns to herself, "if he's not here then he must have already made landfall."
"What about Chief?" Michael asks next, "it could be possible that he stopped him."
"We can't take that chance," his Commander informs him, "even if Truth is dead we still need to make sure so that-"
"Shipmaster," Giltras exclaims, "I've found a transmission but cannot access it."
Keyes turns her attention to Hath'ras and asks, "Do you have human decryption protocols?"
Hath'ras rumbles deep in his throat but nods, irritated for reasons unknown to Shress. Especially since almost everybody knows that the Covenant, including the Sangheilis, have unlock the humans secret coding long ago.
Keyes then turns towards Giltras and instructs, "Enter codes Alpha Oscar Tango zero-one-two-nine and request for a direct link to Cairo station."
The words sounded foreign, but Giltras types the commands into the console with a scowl on his face. Fighting alongside the humans was hard enough but taking orders from one is clearing pushing the limit.
After what felt like a few seconds, the Elite turns and nods his head, "it is done shipmaster."
Keyes looks to Hath'ras who gives her another scowl before gesturing to a console just off of the podium. Wasting no time, the human Commander quickly marches towards the monitor and looks it over, lightly frowning at the alien glyphs.
Michael moves to stand behind her and begins pointing out various symbols, "Ma'am, if you click that glowing symbol-"
Before he finishes speaking though, Keyes quickly moves her fingers in fast coordination, selecting various commands until the monitor turns a light blue as sign of activation.
"I think I have the hang of it Lieutenant," she says over her shoulder with light amusement in her eyes.
Michael is motionless for a moment before he nods his understanding. He turns back around and walks to his original position next to Shress.
The female gives him a teasing grin before leaning down and whispering to him.
"Fear not Spartan," she says soothingly, "I'm sure you have potential skills that will be helpful for other means."
She isn't able to see his face, but when he shifted his weight from one foot to the other she knew her words had a great effect on him and causes her grin to grow into a wide smile.
A snarl claims her attention and she turns to see her father is no more than a few steps away from her.
He glares at her before growling, "Show some dignity before I have you removed from the deck, Zealot."
Shress tries to control her anger, but this is different from all of her past rages that she had held towards her father. Now he is not only insulting her, but Michael as well. Her suitor may put up with the talk but she will have none of it.
She has no time to retaliate though when a buzzing noise is sounded throughout the room before an artificial voice could be heard.
"I repeat this is Cairo Station," the unknown voice declares, "who is using this broadcast signal?"
Keyes touches one of the command buttons on the terminal and speaks into it.
"This is Commander Miranda Keys, designation Alpha Zulu Two, we're inbound from slip space onboard a Sangheili Cruiser, do not shoot, confirm."
"Commander, did you just say you were on a Covenant Cruiser?" the voice asks in a loud disbelieving tone.
"Sangheili," Keyes corrected, "there's no time for explanations Cairo, I need to talk to Lord Hood."
"Lord Hood is busy ma'am," the person reports, "we have a battle to win and-"
"Seaman," she says in a threatening voice, "this is a priority and I demand to speak to Hood."
The person sighs loudly before saying, "You need to come aboard then ma'am, he's got no time for comms, especially if there are enemy ears listening."
Shress wonders if the humans are worried about the Covenant overhearing their transmitted messages or if they are actually referring to the Sangheilis.
Keyes accept the terms without question though.
"Understood Cairo," she says, "Keyes out."
Not too long afterwards, Keyes turns back to the Shipmaster and says, "Direct this ship to these new coordinates."
Six POV
The ride within the Phantom was unnerving at best. The last time he rode in one was when it was full of bodies, his own body was beaten and bloodied with his only comfort being Shress as she piloted said Phantom.
The dropship was design to carry a large number of troopers into battle, this gave the humans more than enough leg room. The Marines are jocked up again after a near day of rest though some are still traumatized and injured. Johnson stood next to them, improvised Needler pistol still in his hand as he kept a protective watch over what remains of his men, especially the ones who are still injured.
Six is standing opposite of Johnson, positioned between Commander Keyes and Shress. The latter is flexing her talons as she cradles the Carbine in her hands, ready to fight again. Keyes has her arms folded, but has a plasma pistol holstered to her hip.
Six for his part is armed with two plasma rifles that for the moment he keeps clipped to his belt. He remembered fighting onboard Cairo, the tight corners and enclosed spacing will make things difficult. He hopes the station is secured, but from past experiences he has learned that it's better to be safe than sorry.
The ship suddenly banks to the right, causing some of the Marines to fall.
Six easily steadies himself, but both Keyes and Shress were in danger of losing their footing. He shoots his arms out to either side of him and catches both women's arms. He holds on until a second passes and they are able to stand again. He releases Keyes, but holds on to Shress for a moment longer. He looks up at her and she looks down into his faceplate. He gives a light squeeze before releasing and she nods in response.
Johnson curses loudly as he picks himself back up and shout towards the head of the ship.
"Hey careful up there!" he yells.
An enraged roar follows suit, but the pilot didn't come charging out as Six feared he would.
There is the sound of metallic clings as tiny projectiles hits the outer hull of the ship. Six assumes its space debris and not the wreckage of a ship, specifically a UNSC vessel.
This reminds Six of the other threat of being shot out of space by the Covenant. His only hope is that the Phantom will be too small of a target for Truth's fleet to consider attacking. He also needs to have faith that Shress's father will stand by his word and intervene in the fight. A few plasma torpedoes and other alien based weapons can easily help level the playing field in the human's favor.
"Humans," the pilots gruff voice calls out, "we have arrived."
Johnson grunts as he looks towards the others, "Surprised they didn't blow us into a billion pieces by now."
"We informed them of our imminent arrival," Shress points out, "I am certain that is why they allowed us entry."
"Yeah, but sometimes you'll get the unfortunate chance of being gunned down by a nervous moron manning the gun controls," Johnson growls out, "that's probably the worst way to go, a squid shooting you in the front."
Nobody chose to comment as they waited, either to be let into the hanger or be shot down, its hard to say. Finally after a few minutes there is a silent thump.
A second later the doors on either sides of the craft opens to reveal the interior of Cairo station.
The shining station was damaged the last time Six had seen it. Now it's a smoking wreckage that is barely staying afloat.
Flames were everywhere, threatening to engulf the entire station. Every so often pieces of the station would rain from the ceiling, sparking wires and pieces of metal jutted from every angle of the room as if a giant bomb had gone off and sprayed the interior of the station with shrapnel. The lights are flicking, threatening to lose power while the deck crew runs back and forth, some with fire extinguishers and others rushing to carry out other important tasks.
"And I thought our first welcome reception sucked," Johnson mutters so that only Six could hear.
The Spartan doesn't say anything, he was too preoccupied trying to figure out whether or not if the station is stabled enough to get off of.
Keyes doesn't wait though. With little warning, she steps forward and jumps onto the deck before striding in the direction of the command center as if the chaos around her was a daily occurrence.
Six quickly disembarks after her, but stops briefly to turn towards Johnson and Shress.
"Sergeant," he says, "take these men to the med bay."
Johnson quirks an eyebrow at this, "You sure that's a good idea? Taking the wounded out of a stable ship and putting them on one that's on fire?"
The Spartan spreads his arms in slight exasperation, "I know that's not a good choice, but I don't think the Shipmaster wants us on his ship any longer than necessary."
"Can't argue with that," Johnson mutters as he looks across the hanger and yells at some Navy men, "Hey! I need some help over here!"
Shress hops out of the ship and walks over to Six.
"I know my father despises you my suitor," she says with a low growl, "but if we need to evacuate, then the transports can head towards his ship."
The Spartan nods in response, "Understood, it's just I do not wish to aggravate him any more than I already have."
"This is a common occurrence," she assures him, "or rather this is how he usually acts whenever I am concerned."
Six casts her a side long glance, but her face doesn't show hurt from remembering such events. Should he be concerned or not?
He unclips the plasma rifles from his sides and holds one in both hands before stating, "Let's get after the Commander, she may need you while speaking with Hood."
Shress gives a sigh, but nods in affirmation as they move with haste after Keyes who has already left the hanger.
"I am happy to be of assistance in securing an alliance," she says as they run, "but I do not believe I am fit for a role of a diplomat."
"We just have to adapt," Six answers, "I've been nothing but a soldier all my life," he looks in her direction and catches her eye, "now I need to teach myself how to be a dutiful suitor for you."
Shress snorts, "my, that task does sound daunting."
"You help make it better though," he easily responds, causing her to nearly trip but catching her footing at the last moment.
They reach the doors and it opens to reveal the corridor in complete disarray. The interior shell of the station is falling to pieces while trash and rubbish litters the floor. Personnel were running back and forth the long hallway, some limping, some jogging and every so often a pair will come racing by while carrying a third in their arms.
"This isn't good," Six says out loud.
"Hopefully my father's intervention will help," Shress says in a reassuring voice, "once all our forces are here, I am sure we will be victorious."
"Yes," Six says in return, "but how much time will we have left?"
Before Shress could answer, Six jogs forward.
"We need to get to the bridge," was all he said as he led the way with Shress following.
The trip wasn't too long, a few twists around the corners, up a pair of stairs and through a few security doors. The crew members would usually stop and jump out of the way as they watch a Spartan and a Sangheili Zealot run pass them with looks of pure surprise on their faces. Six probably would have made it to the deck if he had sprinter the rest of the way, but he slowed considerably so that he wouldn't lose Shress. She already looks as if she was tiring from the run, but finally they made it before the doors of the control center. Six quickly opens the door by slamming his fist against the controls and a moment later the barrier falls away.
Nearly a week ago the control center was the place where Six, Master Chief and Sergeant Johnson were awarded for their actions on Reach and Halo. Now it was on the verge of total destruction. All the consoles were being manned, but the attendants were covered in soot and a handful were bandaged. The upper decks have been cleared out, but smoke was rising from those areas, hopefully the ventilation system is still working. The giant window towards the back has cracks all over its surface, but they are still able to see the space battle that is still being fought outside Standing on the pedestal in front of the main computer is Lord Hood and Commander Keyes, arguing judging by the movement of their hands.
Six and Shress moves forward, thousands of shards cracking under their weight as they walked through the wreckage to reach the commanding officers.
As they pass, the human's worker would pause and gawk at the new arrival as they look among themselves, wondering if they are seeing the same thing. Some look like they wanted to call security, but why would they considering a Spartan is walking by the alien with no threatening signs being made towards the other?
Six and Shress were only a few feet away when they hear the dispute that is currently taking place.
"-no time for this Commander!" Hood states loudly, the first time Six had seen the Admiral losing control of his temper, "I need all available forces to muster here before I can do anything else."
"But sir," Keyes says in turn, "this could be our only chance, at taking out the Covenant and securing an alliance with the Sangheilis-"
"Do you truly believe humanity is, at the moment, ready to receive any alien race's help, especially now that Earth is in danger of-" Hood cuts himself off when he finally notices Six standing before him, as well as Shress for that matter.
Hood's eyes harden a bit, but he stands up respectfully while breathing slowly and evenly. His white uniform has been dirtied from the conflict and the weariness of his face suggests he hadn't received any proper sleep in probably days. Despite his advance age, it's at moments like these that Six respects the Admiral, he truly is committed to the safe keeping of humanity.
"Lieutenant," he finally breathes out in a strained voice.
"Lord Hood sir," Six nods, deciding saluting on the battlefront wasn't an ideal place for formalities before he gestures towards Shress, "this is Zealot class Shress La'vdam, daughter of one of the Shipmasters within Sangheili fleet that has recently arrived."
Hood's eyes widen in surprise, whether it was because of how important Shress is, being introduced to Shress, or the act that she is a woman is unknown to Six. Still he shakes it off before facing Shress himself and looks her up and down, probably trying to find signs that she indeed was a female.
That last thought causes Six's mouth to curl into a brief frown. He knows Hood isn't interested in Shress, but that doesn't halt the possessive emotion he is feeling riling within him as well as the urge to protect her virtue from prying eyes. An obligation he taken upon himself since he now sees himself responsible for Shress's care.
"Zealot…La'vdam," Hood says hesitantly, never before having to address an alien civilly before, "I mean no disrespect, but I wish we could have met under better circumstances."
The floor trembles before a massive explosion is heard somewhere beneath their feet.
"As do I," Shress admits, "but for now, let us agree to assist one another, when the Covenant have been dealt with then we shall allow the politics to argue."
Hood eyes her carefully before giving a small chuckle.
"Finally someone who is speaking sense," his face becomes solemn though as he turns back to Keyes, "Commander I understand how important this could be-"
"Could be sir?" Keyes asks.
The Admiral gives an exasperated sigh, "Keyes, I cannot spare the resources for a ground campaign, I need everyone in this fight."
"With all due respect sir," Keyes says in an equally strained voice, "if we don't stop Truth, then this fight won't matter."
"You're seeing things differently Commander," Hood responds, "our two tasks are one and the same; by defending Earth from the Covenant, we'll deny Truth this…portal, to the Ark-"
"He doesn't need his fleet sir," Keyes interrupts, "he just needs his ship alone to activate the portal and from there he'll head to the Ark, and if the reports are correct, Truth has already landed on Earth."
Hood's face has become more haggard in less than a minute as he thinks through the situation. Six himself has a slight feeling of vertigo and it wasn't because he was in space. Truth is already a step ahead of them, this might be their one last chance of hitting him before he gets to the Ark.
Finally Hood sighs as he nods.
"Fine Commander, but this won't be easy," with that he turns to a console besides him and starts typing on it.
"You're objective Commander is to set up a forward operating base on the continent of Africa," he instructs Keyes, "while I'll provide air support, we still need men on the ground should things go wrong."
"Yes sir," Keyes agrees, "We'll get it done."
Hood is quiet before he glances at Shress.
"This plan can only work if you're people assist us with destroying the fleet," he informs her, "otherwise we won't be able to break a large enough force away to attack Truth."
Shress growls, not in annoyance, but in determination as a bright spark comes to life in her eyes. Her will to fight seems even stronger since their time on Reach.
"It shall be done," she says with a bowed head as she makes a fist and holds it against her chest in a respectful way.
Hood doesn't say a thing, but the look in his eyes could be translated to being that of relief.
He then looks at Six.
"Accompany the Commander Spartan," he orders, "should there be a problem, you fix it, clear?"
Six nods his head immediately, "Understood sir."
Hood looks between the three of them; Keyes, Six and Shress before saying, "This plan is sketchy and I'm not all too convinced that we can win this one."
Six then speaks for all of them, "Perhaps sir, but we are still willing to try."
Hood gives a small smile, "Excellent enthusiasm Lieutenant, but I must admit, I would feel more confident if we had another Spartan in our ranks."
He looks squarely at Keyes next, "We received a weak transmission from the Master Chief not too long after your arrival Commander, and I suspect he will require exfil."
Keyes quirks a brow, but nods her understanding nonetheless. By this point, it seems the Chief never ceases to amaze people. Even Six was doubtful if the Chief could survive on his own onboard Covenant vessel. Then again the Spartan III survived on a dying planet against a horde of Covenant soldiers so he shouldn't be too surprised.
"Do you know of his current location sir?" Keyes asks.
"I'll transmit it to your new ship," Hood says as he types in additional information, "the Forward unto Dawn is attached to the station, I'll loan it to you for now Commander. I suggest you make haste to the surface, find the Master Chief and get in position for the attack, we're now on a schedule."
Keyes gives him a nod, "Very well sir, I'll speak to you momentarily," she then turns to Six, "Let's make our way to the hanger Lieutenant."
Before the Spartan could reply, Shress steps into the conversation.
"With all due respect ma'am," she says with a bowed head, "I request to accompany you to the surface."
Keyes pauses and brow bunches up in deep thought before she looks back to the female.
"I'm not sure if that will be wise Zealot," she says with authority in her voice, "We cannot risk your emotions," she pauses to look between her and Six, "either of your emotions, to get in the way of the mission."
Shress looks up with agitation in her eyes as she speaks again.
"Commander I do not wish to come just so that I can be with my suitor," she says in a fiery tone, "but because Truth has wronged our people, one of my people should be there to witness his downfall, to remember his death. I assure you this will help the alliance."
Keyes thinks this over, but a moment later another explosion shakes the station, causing more pieces of the ceiling to break free and to fall. They crouch and waited until it ended a minute later.
Right after Keyes stands up and fast marches towards the doors, "Fine," she says, "let's just go."
Six and Shress looks briefly at one another and smile before moving to following the Commander.
"Wait."
They pause and turn to face Lord Hood as he looks amongst them with confusion evident on his face.
"Commander," he says carefully, "what did you mean by…'either of their emotions' hindering the mission?" he questions as he looks at Shress, "and who were you referring to as your suitor?"
Both the Sangheili and superhuman feel their faces flush while the Commander covers her own face with a hand and shakes her head in agitation before looking back up at the Admiral.
"I'm sorry sir, I'll explain later, but right now we need to leave," and with that she turns around and strides out of the room, with Six and Shress following close behind.
As soon as the door shut behind them, Keyes turned on her heel and gave the couple a seething glare.
"And when I said I'll explain I mean you will explain," She hisses at them through clench teeth, "because I for one am still trying to figure out your whole relationship myself." As soon as she finishes she walks towards the hanger, leaving behind two extremely embarrassed soldiers.
The Dawn was in mostly good condition. The station has been taking a blunt of the beating and the hull has shielded the Frigate…mostly.
The ship's crew number barely met the minim requirement, but seeing how they only needed to get to earth and not deep space then it didn't matter. At the moment it is being loaded with extra gear and munitions. All of which were being overseen by Noble Six.
So far the deck crew appears to know what they are doing, so for the most part the Spartan kept watch in silence. He has discarded the alien weapons he had obtained earlier and instead loaded himself out with a Shotgun and assault rifle with the latter being attached to his back.
Every so often the station would shake violently before stabilizing again. Six knew he shouldn't be thinking it, but sometimes he wishes that the Covenant would try and invade the station so that he could kill them. There was nothing more frustrating for a Spartan than to be stuck in a ship when there's a fight happening.
"its nice we got a new set of wheels," Six turns to see Johnson walking up to him, wearing new Marine combat armor and armed with a battle rifle in hand, "I'll take it that we have a job?"
Six nods before saying, "Sergeant, you should rest, be ready for the next assault."
"Well from my position Six the next assault is ready," Johnson comments as he looks around at the rushing UNSC forces, "besides, I've been resting on your girlfriend's ship long enough to want to get back into the action."
Six has learned long ago that there was no point in trying to win an argument with Johnson so he remains silent. The Sergeant does look ready to go, there's even a spark in his eye as he watches the Navy personal work. He may not be young, but Johnson seems to be always ready for the fight.
"So where's your girl?" Johnson asks light heartedly as he stands next to the Spartan.
Six shakes his head in reply, "Don't say that in front of her Johnson."
Instead of being intimidated the Sergeant smirks at Six, "having trouble finding out who's the dominant one is in this relationship?"
Six just about feels his mind go blank and hands nearly crushing the weapon in his hand at the Sergeants words.
He was more surprised than angry at the question if he had to be honest. He had heard this term being used among human couples but he never thought he and Shress would be included within such…classification. He has nothing but love and respect towards the Sangehili female, she is the most wonderful person to have ever become apart of his life. However, in the face of the logic that she is taller and possibly stronger than he is, then by all means she would be considered the dominant one of their relationship.
He is now hoping that the word "dominant" have some different meaning than what he is thinking of.
"Well," Johnson says as he lightly jabs his elbow against Six's alloy covered ribs, "I'm going to take this prolong silence as reassurance that you and her are still working out that small little detail."
Finally Six decides that he is angry and turns to the Sergeant to tell him so.
He is interrupted though when he hears the loud footsteps coming up behind him and he turns to see Shress and the Arbiter walking up to them.
The Spartan is surprised with the male Sangheili's appearance and looks to Shress for answers. However her face is set in a scowl and he wonders who it is that she is angry at this time.
The aliens stops before them and the Arbiter looks at the Spartan. He eyes the metallic soldier before dipping his head in respect and says, "Spartan Six."
"Arbiter," Six nods back, "and its Noble Six, you can just call me Six if you wish."
The Sangheili snorts at this before moving his eyes towards Johnson.
"Not yet weary of the fight human?" the Spartan is caught off guard when he hears the small amount of respect that was present in the tone.
Johnson for his part flashes his usual grin as he pulls the bolt back on his rifle.
"You kidding? It's going to take more than a bunch of mutated freaks to kill me."
Six easily sees the confusion and light concern in the Arbiter's expression before the confusion clears off, clear sign that he too has spent much time around Johnson.
The Spartan then turns his attention towards Shress who has stood off to the side with an evident frown on her face as her fangs grinds against each other in obvious agitation. He remembers how months ago he would have stayed clear of her, but now as her suitor he can help her without the threat of being harmed.
Or so he hopes.
He takes a few steps up towards her and she turns towards him. She stopped rubbing her teeth together, but the dark look in her eyes still remains.
Six has a good idea what is wrong, but he decides to let Shress tell him, hopefully this will help her to displace some of her hostility.
"What's wrong?" he asks her in a soft voice.
She briefly looks away from him and eyes both the Arbiter and Johnson.
Surprisingly, Johnson grabs the Arbiter's chest plate and pulls him away from her and Six. Arbiter is caught off guard and is forced to follow Johnson as he tries to regain his footing.
"Come on Arby," the Sergeant says, "I'm sure Keyes would like to continue your peace and rainbow talks."
"What?" Arbiter demands as he finally stands up straight and glares down at the small human.
It doesn't worry Johnson in the least as he continues to walk along and waving for the Sangheili to come after him, "just follow me and I promise to teach you how to read between the lines."
Six wonders if Johnson knows what he is getting himself into and makes a mental note to keep the man away from any future peace talks. Unless the Sangheili wishes to know about human humor or sarcasm, then they shouldn't be anywhere near Johnson.
He returns his attention back to Shress who was watching after the departing party with confusion in her eyes as well. Her stormy attitude disappears momentarily as she looks to Six.
"Do I even wish to know what the Sergeant meant by 'reading between the lines?'" she asks the Spartan.
Six in turn shrugs his shoulders in response as he admits with, "probably not."
She makes a noise in her throat before looking away from him, the agitation returning to her form once again. Six waits a moment before asking his question.
"Shress," he says softly despite the destruction going on around them, "what's wrong?"
The female is silent, but only a moment before she finally relents.
"I was contacted by my parents," she begin to examine her Carbine rifle with mild interest, "they do not approve of me accompanying you to the surface, they believe it would be better if I return to the ship with them."
Six isn't too surprise, except for when Shress mentioned her mother. He had thought they had some sort of agreement with one another about Shress and her decision. After a second though, he wave that away, maybe she is just being a concerned mother and believe space would be safer than being on a planet full of hostile aliens.
"Didn't you tell them you're wishing to better the alliance by doing this?" he asks, but regrets it when Shress glares at him.
"Of course I did," she growls, "but they do not believe me," she glances away from him, "after all this time they believe me to start acting like a love sick fool and not a dedicated warrior."
Six is silent before finally speaking, "Well…we were…in a way…"
She swings her head around to stare directly at him with livid eyes.
"We were what?" she all but spits out.
Knowing he is treading on dangerous grounds, he chooses his next few words carefully.
"Back on the Prowler," he answers, "for those first few days we allowed ourselves to…indulge in one another."
She doesn't reply, but he can tell by her shifting eyes and sudden twitch that he has embarrassed her. Though not what he originally wanted, he still uses this to his advantage as he takes a step forward so that he is closer to her.
"I think we proven when to be…'love sick fools'" he says in a serious tone, "and when to be soldiers," he reaches out and places his gauntlet on her arm, "we can be both."
She is quiet as she looks into his faceplate.
"Can we?" she asks, her past anger gone, but now filled with anxiousness, "as far as I know…this has never existed before, two warriors engaged in courtship while in battle."
Six doesn't hesitate as he squares his shoulders with resolve.
"Yes I do," he says confidently before an invisible smile appears on his lips, "need I remind you we were courting even before our species were allies? We were still enemy soldiers towards one another yet that didn't stop us, what is to stop us this time?"
She releases a little chortle despite herself, but there is some doubt in her eyes as she continues to speak.
"Yes Michael but…"
"But what?" Six asks curiously.
She sighs as she apparently forces herself to finish.
"My father told me love cannot survive in war," she keeps her gaze set solely on him, "and I fear that he is correct," she reaches out and touches his shoulder in turn.
"I worry about you Michael" she admits, "and I know you worry about me…we cannot function like this, not here," she lowers her eyes, "I don't know what I will do if I lose you."
Six is filled with a flash of passion and he surprises even himself as places the shotgun on his back and reach for Shress. Both his hands grabs her on either side of her face and gently lift her head up so that they are looking back into each other eyes.
Her silver ones look misty and there is even a hint of despair within them. This hurt him to his core.
"Shress," he says calmly, "I swear to you, when this is over, we'll make this work," he says with confidence as his thumbs begins to brush her cheeks.
Shress sighs and asks, "How Michael? My parents, my people, they will not stand for this union. And your people seems to be against it as well."
Six nods, deciding not to hide the truth, "Perhaps, but that won't stop me," he then declares, "When this is over, I'll find a way for us to be together."
"And if we die?" she asks, "if Truth succeeds? What will happened then?"
He tighten his grip on her and leans forward some more. He wishes more than ever now that he could remove his helmet so that he can kiss her, but knows that wouldn't be the wisest thing to do. Instead, he'll just tell her.
"Then we'll die," answers bluntly, "together," he finishes, "no matter what, I'm never leaving you."
They remain standing, staring into one another's eyes, both too intent on the other to think of much else. They are in love, but now this has broken down another barrier. They have chosen to devote their very selves to each other. Shress has given up everything; her home, her honor and her family to be with him. Six has in turn defied protocols, broken rules and risked his life on many accounts to save hers. They are committed to one another and they are determine not to let each other go.
However, they are forced to when Six hears a voice in his ear.
"Come in Noble Six," comes the voice of Commander Keyes.
This single moment was the most precious thing the Spartan has ever been exposed to, but he gives a long and disappointed sigh when he lets go of Shress and touches his comm link.
"Yes Commander?" he asks.
"The Dawn is ready," she informs him, "however I need you, Johnson, and La'vdam in some Pelicans and lead a Marine task force on Earth."
Six is briefly puzzled by this, "objective Commander?"
"We're picking up a weak signal originating in Africa not too far from Truth's landing zone," Keyes explains, "IFF tags signal belongs to the Chief. Find him and get him back ASAP."
Six nods even though Keyes couldn't see him, "Yes ma'am, we're on it."
"Good luck Noble, rendezvous at the Crow's Nest, an old outpost where we will be setting up for the offensive."
"Copy Commander, we won't fail," Six says in his Spartan voice.
"Good luck Six and…"
"Yes Commander?" Six asks.
Finally there is an explosive sigh before Keyes says, "Just stay focus down there Lieutenant," with that said she signs off.
Six is more than happy now that all Spartans wear helmets, it keeps people from staring at the mortification that is showing on his face. Never in his life would he ever thought he would have this kind of a problem with his commanding officers.
Then again he never imagine having a Sangheili lover either.
"What is it Michael?" Shress as she lays a hand on his shoulder, oblivious to his tortured pride.
After steeling himself a bit he looks over his shoulder and back at Shress.
"Do you remember the Master Chief?" he questions her, "the other Spartan that the Gravemind was holding alongside us?"
She nods while her mandibles shudders with the discomforting reminder of the alien creature.
"We think we found him," he informs her, "he must have escaped Truth's ship before they landed. We need him back for the coming assault."
"You have no confidence in your fighting prowess?" she asks lightly in a teasing manner.
"I do," he reassures her, "but from my experience, the more Spartans, the more impossible things we can overcome."
Shress accepts those words and made to move to the ship when Six suddenly reaches out and grabs her arm.
"Shress," he says, "one more thing."
She looks back at him when he removes the items from his belt, items she had not noticed before now.
Her eyes widen and her mandibles spread wide open in astonishment at what Six was holding up; her twin energy swords.
Slowly, she reaches out and tentatively takes them in hand, being very careful as if blades the were fragile. When they are deactivated, the swords are nothing more than handles, but these ones are engrave with ancient runes that Six couldn't read. He had quickly rubbed them down with a rag, they weren't shinning, but at least they were clean.
His only concerned though was that they still worked, he had no idea if they were like vehicles and needed to be maintained. That worry was eliminated when Shress activated one of the swords and it sparked to life. The pulsing plasma was as bright and dazzling as ever and though Six has seen Shress with it multiple times, the blue aura the swords were emitting painted her face in a shade of blue and her silver eyes look more beautiful than ever before.
Shress for her part kept staring at the weapons in wonder before she eventually deactivates it and looks back at Six, eyes now clearly watering. The Spartan is a bit surprised by this, he knew the swords were special to Shress but he didn't think they were that special.
"You kept them?" she all but whispers.
Six nods, "I told you I would," he says reassuringly, "I hid them in my room and was planning on giving them back to you earlier, but…that was when you were…were…"
He couldn't finish, remembering that horrible event when she was taken, when he found her cell splattered with blood and the emptiness that filled his life was unbearable and he didn't want to relive it ever again.
Noticing his sudden distress, Shress clips the swords to her belt before hugging the Spartan who returns the show if affection. On certain days he appreciated his armor and cared for it as if it was his very skin, but now he wished he didn't have it for it is preventing him from feeling the full warmth of Shress's affection.
"It is alright Michael," she tells him soothingly, "I am safe."
"I know," he responds in an equally quite voice, "I just…I want to be there for you, make sure you're never taken again."
She gives a small purr before pulling away and giving him a stern, yet playful look.
"Remember Michael," she says in a stronger voice, "I am still a warrior."
Six nods, "Of course-"
"Hey!"
The two instantly backs away from another while putting their hands on their weapons, ready for trouble. However their brief composure is replaced with annoyance when they see that it was Johnson who shouted. The Sergeant had his hands on his hips and is standing on the threshold to the Frigate's main bay.
When he saw he has their attention, he yells again.
"Keep it PG!" he berates them, "you're traumatizing the kids!" he finishes by pointing to some Navy men who were gawking at both Six and Shress with huge eyes and open mouths, no doubt having seen the two of them sharing their intimate moments.
The Spartan isn't sure if he would marked this as the best day of his life, or his worst. Shress however still had her hands on her swords and was staring daggers in the Sergeant's direction. Just like her father, she looks ready to murder.
"Come on!" Johnson says as he gestures for them to join him, "We've got a bonehead to rescue."
As I said earlier I will be busy so updates will be slow. Below are stories that I enjoy and thought you might come to like as well, most of which can be found in my favorite story's list on my profile.
Author: Sabere Commander
He has written a lot of stories that I have come to enjoy and appreciate, there's too many to name off so please just check what he has to offer, he has stories about Alpha and Omega, Slender, Call of Duty, Dragon Ball Z, Resident Evil, Assassin's Creed, Rosario + Vampire, Minecraft, Naruto, Bleach, Red vs. Blue, and Ghost Rider. I highly recommend him for keeping characters in character, plot drama and making the whole story line enjoyable. Genres ranges from romance to adventure
"The Specter" (Game: Halo) by "Preacher of Kepler-1975"
Set in a slightly canon universe, the story follows the adventures of a human super soldier and an adopted young Sangehili. The story gives their origins, how the human has somehow obtain his abilities without augmentations and his brief military training (which I find incredible and greatly similar to most military novels I have read) and life after that lead him to become the Specter. The Preacher is a young Sangheili's whose life have already been chosen for him before the Covenant destroys all that he knows. They are outcasts of their people, but now they are together as they forge their own destinies.
"The Chosen One," (Misc.: Mythology) by "Scottish Noble"
Nothing interesting ever happens to Morrison who is a young man starting to live his life. However what he didn't expect is be caught in the middle of a secret war between the forces of order and evil. He is forced to change in order to survive, but when his friends now consider him a monster can he change back? Does he even have a choice or is everything he ever knew destine to be burned to the ground?
"No Longer Lost To Light" (Game: Destiny) by "ILOV3BUTT3R"
The impossible is done. Crota is no more, but was a fireteam's sacrifice worth it? Only time will tell as the lone survivor tries to adjust to the new world he is faced with. As a new threat looms on the horizon, the few remaining warriors of Light must ready themselves for the oncoming storm. Things look bleak for the last member of Fireteam Excalibur, but perhaps a certain ex-guardian can be of assistance...? (Eris Morn/OC content)
"Blood Moon Rising" (Movie: Balto) by "Krampus the Dark"
AU: The cure run isn't made till in the 1940's and in that time a young soldier returns home from the War, wounded and cursed. By day he is a respected war veteran, by night his curse transforms him into a werewolf. Hoping to find solitude, he moves to Nome where he encounters wolves, dogs and a half-breed whose destiny has yet to be revealed. As he tries to adjust, he makes friends and further down the road, will he even have the chance to find love?
(Brief prologue author wrote) I awoke from my cot when I head shells falling. I fell off the cot when a small tremor from what I can assume was a shell shook the earth. "GET YOUR A*** IN GEAR MEN!" I head the general yelled. I quickly ran to my stuff and geared up. Within minutes I was dressed and ready for action, as I stepped out of the tent I was thrown a few feet away by a powerful force. As I looked up I saw that not too far away from the place I was standing was a smoking crater. I soon got up and ran to my platoon, we all ran to the front. My friend James fell as we began to run. His head was burst open and a look of fear and shock adorned his ruined face. I ran to the trench and set up and waited for the Jerry's to come.
Author "MatrixDan"
Halo: The Secret Soldier
Set along the timeline of Halo 4, the story follows Dimitri, an ONI secret Spartan that has been trained in both the Spartan II and III program, making him an advance and dangerous advisory despite the years of neglect and somewhat mental trauma. Along with his AI, he now helps defend humanity from a threat greater than the Covenant but along the way will he experience the strange emotion known as love? And what if these feelings are being caused by someone who isn't human? (Spartan x Sangheili)
The Wolf of the North (Movie: Alpha & Omega)
A State Trooper was content with his job of helping people while enjoying the beauty of nature until the incident. Forced to watch his friends die, his faithful k9 partner sacrificing himself to save his master and being mauled by a unknown beast has scarred the man. However when that scar proves to be curse and cause him to change into a wolf at night, what will he do now? Will he live as a wolf or is he still a man? Or will the work of a madman decide that for him?
Inuyasha: An Unexpected Adventure (Anime Inuyasha & Renkin 3-kyuu Magical? Pokahn/錬金３級 まじかる？ぽか～ん)
Just your average day for Inuyasha, or that's what he thought it was going to be... Follow him on his journey through Feudal Japan as he is accompanied by 4, strange, and unusual princesses, and 2 complete strangers. What wonders will they face during their journey together? *Some characters may not be listed, but are in the story*
On a minor note, I like this new song that I've heard recently: "What love looks like," by "Among the Thirsty"