Author's Notes: Yes, another fanfic. Set in the same universe as my first fic, so expect references and crossovers.

Prologue: Hymn to the Fallen

September 2552

Covenant world "Karth" destination unknown

Holy Ralamee sighed as he looked over the fields of his homeworld of Karth. Just four years ago, the fields were filled with absolute beauty. Bright blue-green grass, and brilliant gold flowers formed a sea of color as far as the eye could see. It was paradise, and Holy and his people believed it would last forever on their world.

How wrong he was.

It felt like a cycle ago when Holy was standing at this same exact spot, looking at legions of his Elite brethren marching off to war with pride. During that time, Holy was still too young to serve in wartime, and was restricted to guard duty. That is, until just three years ago. The war against the humans proved more taxing on the Covenant forces than they had initially thought, and Holy was pressed into service early. For the next three years, Holy fought in countless campaigns and battles, and though he was victorious in every one, it felt as if every victory was a hollow one. In a span of just three years, he had seen his brethren killed in almost every way imaginable. He had seen friends and fellow Elites being shot, burned, ripped to shreds, crushed, blown apart, impaled, and countless other gruesome and nightmare inducing fates.

Holy looked back over the field, and the endless sea of grass, and the legions of his brethren slowly turned into a barren snow-covered graveyard. The grass and flowers were dead and gone, and the ranks and files of Elite troops faded away and were replaced by gravestones. Thousands, millions, gravestones as far as the eye could see. Holy shook his head as one thought rippled through his mind.

Is this war really worth the cost?

Just a few cycles ago, Holy would have said yes to that question without any hesitation. But now, after that incident with the Prophet, Holy was not so sure.

The Prophets claim that they are all-powerful and all-knowing, but I have sinned and they are completely oblivious to it.

Thoughts and decisions shot back and forth through his head like cannons returning fire against one another. Either way, one side as going to win, and there was no room for a tie.

What should I do?

Holy stood there for a long time, not moving. After what seemed like years, the Elite finally settled on a decision.

Yes, I must commit the ultimate crime to save my people. Even if it means my death.