A/n: Hey guys very sorry for the lack of activity on here, I unfortunately broke my arm and my hands a lot better now so I can type much more then beforehand. Stay tuned for next weeks chapter.

Name: Maci Durramee

Year: 2584

Gender: Female

Age: 46

Rank: Supreme Commander

Location: Durram State- Sanghelios

6 months prior to the event.

As the sun rose and the heat scorched the dry fields, a few small livestock beasts roamed about herded by a sangheili farmer overwatching his flock.

Durram state.

It was a place with vast buildings. Some tall and large, others small homes, but the one thing that was noted about this state was its vast open space area, its livestock, the golden fields that waved back and forth in the summer breeze. Even the two large statues of a Male and female sangheili with hands entwined that stood at the entrance of the state was perhaps one of the most iconic things here.

A large round dome building, made from the clay of sanghelios and looked much more like a human gladiator ring from the outside, known as the Cathedral was the main base for the council members, meetings that took place as well as large festivities that the state held featuring their history.

In one large open and circular room stood Maci as she looked down from a stone carved window, a smile upon her face as the female had aged in time with scars and wrinkles that now lined her features. Taking in a deep breath of the fresh air that flowed in, the Durramee Warrior stood clad in her armour that was formerly worn when off duty.

It was similar to her armour from years ago, from the battle during the civil war on sanghelios. Ah the memories of the olden days how they seemed but a faint glimmer now in the sky. That battle had not been Maci's last, and deep down she knew that one day she would finally succumb to the battles of war in the end but for now she looked down upon her people, her state had grown as had her children.

"Mother" A voice called out from amidst the darkness as Maci turned to look upon her first born son. Like his Father before him Varus had started out working on machines, but eventually followed in his Mothers footsteps and aimed to be the highest he can be in the military.

"Varus my dear, what troubles your mind this fine morning?" Maci questioned as she folded her hands behind her back.

Varus had grown to his Father's height, towering over his Mother, he was the most distinctive of her children, one of his eyes was blue much like Maci's, the other Golden like Zuka's. Medics and doctors said it was odd to see such a rarity in any sangheili child but that didn't mean he was the only one.

He'd also developed a slightly darker skin tone much like his Mother and had already achieved a rank as an ultra in the militia as he donned his uniform with pride and joy, though Varus remained stoic. After all he was now 24 years old and had seen his own share of wars and battles.

"Ka'rus had asked of any information in regards to who our next councilor will be?" The young yet strong boy asked, but despite his stoic tone he had a look in his eye that spoke of curiosity himself.

A Soft chuckle came from Maci's mouth as she put a hand on her sons shoulder and walked past him. Ah her first born child, Ka'rus, she was soon to be the new Kaidon and was already doing a fine job at it. Not to mention Ka'rus had also had her first child a year ago, a healthy strong boy that was a spitting image of Zuka.

"Ah yes a good question indeed." Maci addressed as she walked down the stone corridor. "Our Former councilor had passed away not so long ago and left a very big gap to be filled. I suppose your Sister is looking for a suggestion as to whom should be next hmm?" Maci questioned looking over her shoulder with a raised brow only to softly chuckle.

"Perhaps Mother...Vorumee was a strong and noble hearted councilor and served our state well. Even his Granddaughter, despite her training, would not be able to fill such boots" Varus spoke still keeping his tone in a respectful light manner not giving away his emotions. Military had hardened him as had the acceptance with his fellow brothers in arms.

Sangheili culture had changed a lot however many still out there did not like the idea of their young knowing who their Fathers where or Mothers that may have been in the military. Durram state went against that and backed up by the Arbiter when he was still around. The title Arbiter had been passed down onto his Son whom was currently focused on working on a diplomatic mission with new alliances being made every day.

Then Maci stopped and turned to look up at her son, a warm smile crossed her lips before she leaned up and pinched the side of her sons mandibles, much like how a human would pinch a babies chubby cheeks.

"Ah my sweet Vari you would have splendid Children with Vorrumees Granddaughter Li'ora. I can already foresee it." Maci said as she waved her hands in the air like a fortune teller as she softly giggled.

"Mother…." Varus said sternly trying hard not to laugh at his own Mothers imitation. "I don't like Li'ora that way…." Varus folded his arms over his chest.

"Ah but my dear boy I have seen it." Maci continued as she giggled leading the way down a slop that led outside.

Li'ora, she was Vorrumee's granddaughter, when Maci had completed her training in the academy Vorrumee had moved here with his family. Although Li'ora was much older then Varus, she always had a kind caring nature towards him. Although she worked hard to become like her father but still Sangheili traditions did not allow females the position on the council. Not just that but Maci couldn't help but tease her first born son, she knew that Varus had a crush on her, he just refused to admit it.

Walking out of the citadel, the dust and gravel roads were lined with nearby buildings, markets, transport passing by. It was the average busy day for anyone within Durram state. People coming and going, some touring the area and others coming to stay and live in this place. Durram was one of few states that had remained a farming state and had slowly built up over the years. Thanks to Maci's battles and fights she was able to collect a moderate wage that could help develop and grow her state over the years.

As the two walked on, Maci still giggling ever so slightly, there was an old sangheili with dark skin and vibrant eyes. Varus stopped suddenly and glared at the elder, as did the elder. Maci sighed rolling her eyes as she stepped out of the way before the two males lunged at each other.

"When will you two ever give it up?" Maci remarked as she rubbed her brows.

The two collided with one another, falling as they laughed side by side. The elder was no other then Maci's Uncle and Grand uncle to her children. R'tus had aged well, in fact if it wasn't for his knowledge in farming then most of the new farmers wouldn't have been able to grow most of their crops.

"Ah but a true warrior must show his strength little Maci" R'tus said as he stood up dusting himself, as did Varus who tried hard not to laugh too much.

However Maci couldn't help but laugh along with them. Her uncle, despite having been a fugitive as well as a criminal having being involved in the Raiders that had once burnt down these very lands, Maci was proud to call him Uncle. During her younger years he had acted like her guardian, every Mission she went on he was there to help her. Even if that meant breaking a few rules to get aboard.

"Stop your Criminal acts right there!" A voice boomed suddenly from the other side of the street. Most passing by that had never been in Durram stopped to look but others...Well they couldn't care less.

"That there is a noble warrior! I'll fight you tooth and claw" Maci bursted out laughing at the words of the approacher, whom was none other than an aged Zuka. He too like Maci had a few new scars but the one around his neck was the most prominent one.

"Oh but I'm just a poor old man you couldn't hurt me could you?" R'tus said and Maci shook her head knowing where this was going.

"Ah such true words. I could never hurt a humble citizen of Durram." Maci put her head in her hands trying to cover the tears of laughter as she watched Zuka approach, chest puffed out.

"FOOL! I have a concealed weapon haha" R'tus withdrew a walking stick as the two males began to play fight.

For some odd reason the comical relief in Durram was much welcomed as nearby watchers laughed, younglings joined in as Maci took a step back watching her Mate and Uncle play fight as if this was a real battle. It's true the two had never truly gotten along in the beginning but at some point of time, perhaps with age, they both knew that in their hearts all they wanted to do was protect Maci and their family.

After all the years of war, disputes and debates, the long months of drought, Durram citizens welcomed the relief from the harshness of reality. In fact everyone here was all apart of one big family as they had many festivities during the year, from weddings to traditional celebrations and even the coming of a new youngling into the world. Everyone celebrated together. To others it may have seemed odd but the state was one whole big community all together, enjoying every moment that they could as a break from the arrival of bad news.

Taking in a deep breath Maci left the scene allowing Zuka and her Uncle time to bond, they had become quiet the comical pair to say the least and if it could have been any other way around they probably could become the comedians on the street if it wasn't for the family lineage.

Maci's ears picked as her feet felt the sensation of movement approaching, and fast. Turning around she came face to face with a K'rousm as it came to a sudden stop causing dust to blew up in the air. Laughter followed behind as Maci slightly coughed and waved the dust out of her way. She knew that laughter as she looked up with a bright smile to see her children. Tus'ta and K'ra, her two beautiful little twins, they were the youngest of all of her offspring and much like their Mother they had a heart full of adventure. Tus'ta and K'ra were lucky to be five years old and yet here they sat on a giant beasts back without any form of worry at all.

"Mumma, Mumma" They both called out in unison cheering as they hopped off their mount, giving the giant K'rousm a pat on the head, like a human would to a horse.

"Look what Tus'ta found" K'ra said with much joy as Tus'ta walked up to Maci, holding a pretty blue flower.

"The Flowers are in bloom Mumma, and pretty like your eyes" Tus'ta smiled jumping with joy as Maci softly chuckled.

"My oh my that seems to be true." She took the flower in hand. "But not as pretty as your eyes my little ones" Maci chuckled as the Twins jumped up leaping into their Mothers arms with joy.

Ka'rus was soon behind them, decorated in traditional robes much like her mothers. Of course Ka'rus was soon to be the next Kaidon, being their first born child she had matured a lot over the many moons. With pale skin and eyes identical to her father, Ka'rus walked like a leader with a head held high and an energetic stride with a brilliant smile.

"Mother" Ka'rus said addressing her Mother by slightly bowing her head and placing a hand to her chest, a sign of Sangheili respect. "I require to speak with you privately in regards to some...matters" Ka'rus spoke softly yet her voice was strong.

Maci let the Twins go and gave them a little playful nudge towards their mount signaling for them to go as Maci folded her arms behind her back and looked back over to Ka'rus. She knew that her daughter was concerned for her own mothers well being, being a supreme commander came with many things, one of those being on the frontlines of battle but with the recent news of a new possible enemy there was always a lot to be concerned.

"Of course my dear, I always have time for you. After all you soon shall be the new Kaidon." Maci said, speaking in a soft and happy tone as they walked towards their home set upon the small hill up ahead. Yet there was worry in the air.

"I know it is disrespectful to speak my mind in regards to military but...There is much I think we need to consider before you leave for anything Mother." Tradition in Sangheili was that others lower than a counselor should not be able to make any advices, but Maci always listened to others.

For the thoughts and opinions of those within her state always needed to be heard out and Maci made it a daily thing to head to the temple to listen to her fellow citizens, even the tiniest of complaints Maci made sure she heard them out and gave them as much advice as she could or information. However that responsibility would soon go to Ka'rus, after all she too made sure to listen to others. Entering their family home, which had been greatly extended on due to their much larger family now, Maci closed the door making sure they were alone.

"I always have time to listen to my daughter. So do tell me you are going to give me another grandchild right?" Maci joked but noted how serious her daughters face was as Ka'rus stood firmly folding her hands in front of her.

"No Mother, my concerns is that we have word of a new enemy and we do not have any councilor to advice you on behalf of these situations. I understand we have a time or mourning but when your life may be at risk I worry." Ka'rus said as she stepped forward and took her Mother's Hand in hers.

There was much concern in Ka'rus' eyes. From day one when Maci had to leave her for any battle or fight, Ka'rus would worry so much that she would stay up late making sure her Mother had everything on her. From Medical aids to snacks and protein bars. Maci smiled softly and cupped the side of her daughters face as she pressed her forehead against her Daughters.

"You worry to much my dear" Maci softly said feeling her daughters concern. "But fear not little one. A friend of mine has come to town perhaps you can persuade him." Maci said letting go of her daughter and stepping back with a warm smile hoping to lift her daughters spirit.

"Mother do you believe some friend can be of help? We need someone with skill, diplomacy not just a friend?" Ka'rus seemed to protest, worry striked all over her face.

However Maci just shook her head and chuckled softly. She knew her daughter was worried, but Maci also knew that sometimes her own Daughter forgot that her Mother knew what she was doing.

"Oh my sweet little petal, his name is Voras. You may remember him from many years ago, though you were just a tiny youngling back then. Trust me, when you meet him you will know he is suitable for such a job" Maci encouraged as she turned away from her daughter and began to clean up.

Ka'rus seemed to disagree as she sighed but knew it wasn't much use as the youngling turned and went outside for some fresh air. True her mother knew best after all if her Mother had not then the very view she had right now of Durram would not be. Perhaps it was worth a shot as Ka'rus took in a very deep and long breath and rubbed her temples before she began to walk down the path. Knowing her Mother, this Voras would probably be arriving if not already here and waiting at the Durram Cathedral.

Making her way down along the streets, Ka'rus ensured that her appearance was perfect. She wore an identical set of clothing to her Mother with a blue kama skirt but rather then opting for a single shirt, Ka'rus wore a traditional scarf top that crossed over her left shoulder and hung loosely. She always wore a black shirt beneath though as a form of protection against any attackers just in case.

Up ahead Ka'rus could see her younger Brothers, Varus and Xavour. Xavour had mounted up already on a K'rousm, he was high up in the security on Durram as he wore the traditional Durram security armour. There was much hope for him in regards to becoming apart of the military, though he was more focused on protecting Durram then anything else. Were as Varus wore his Ultra armour. Ka'rus knew he wore it not just for the females but for his Family. Perhaps it was in honor of their grandfather before them whom was a former Ultra or maybe the influence of Military life had gotten to her Brother. Either way it was good to see them, however with a pressing matter at Hand Ka'rus didn't stop to brief them or even say hello. Though it looked like they were already deep in conversation about something.

Rounding the corner Ka'rus could fully see the Cathedral from here, the streets were fairly busy so Ka'rus knew she would have a bit of trouble trying to recognize this so called Voras, whoever he is he best not be a waste of time. Taking in another deep breath, the young female knew she had to do this for her Family, her Mother but also as the future Kaidon. Even though her hearts thumped in her chest so much that she swore she might be sick, it was a duty and an honour. Especially for any female.

"Ka'rus I presume." A voice called out from a nearby food stall.

Turning fast on her heels, Ka'rus raised a brow as she looked at the elder male that stood wearing some form of old armour that was clearly vintage seeing as it was armour that had seen better days, perhaps dating back to the early days of when the Sangheili still stood alongside the Covenant. Either way this guy seemed to know her name as Ka'rus folded her arms and looked him up and down.

"And you sir? I don't believe I know your name?" She said speaking with her head held high like any true leader would. After all warriors walked with a hunch, but leaders had to hold their head high, or so Ka'rus believed.

"I didn't believe your Mother when she said that you had her spirit but I see it. That Stubbornness that almost got her killed." The elder spoke with much amuse as he finished off the small meal he seemed to have ordered.

Still Ka'rus didn't know him but he clearly knew her Mother. Probably just some tourist as she shook her head, she had to meet with this Voras guy and decide if he was worthy of becoming the new Durram counselor and persuade him to do so. Though Ka'rus hoped that this Voras knew the land and its people.

"Listen I have more important things to get to. So I apologize for such a brief conversation but feel free to ask any security for tours." Ka'rus abruptly said as she turned and began to walk briskly towards the Cathedral.

Her eyes looked around scanning the area for a face that looked familiar, she just hopped the Elder hadn't delayed her too long that the possible candidate might have left or worse gone looking around and gotten lost. The frustration was already beginning to eat her alive as Ka'rus came to the Cathedral. She looked around and asked any of the guards if they had seen anyone named Voras.

Sadly with her not-so-good-luck, Ka'rus ended up spending most of the afternoon hovering around, pacing back and forth and praying for some form of good luck. As the streets died down and twin moons began to set up high in the sky while the sun's died, Ka'rus sighed heavily taking a seat on the steps outfront of the Cathedral. Already the lights were turning on and there had been no sight of this Voras. Maybe it was all a set up to get her less worried about her Mother. Rolling her eyes she decided she'd stick around just a bit longer and that's when a voice nearby called out.

"Yep just like your Mother, stubborn and ignorant" It was the elder from before, he seemed to be snacking on something, probably from one of the stalls before they closed up for the night. He approached calmly and slowly but Ka'rus didn't have time for a history run of her Mother.

"No offense but I'm a little busy right now" Ka'rus said as she stood up, though she was exhausted and feeling overall drained. Then the Elder laughed again as he continued to walk closer to her, she didn't know him, didn't recognize his voice or face and to her he could be a possible attacker. Wouldn't be the first time someone attempted to take her life.

"Do you remember when she had to deal with the civil dispute in a forsaken warzone?" He spoke up again seeming so determined on this history thing. Rolling her eyes Ka'rus gave in, maybe it would save her the faintest bit of boredom or maybe she would just humour him.

"I was young but yes I still remember. She almost died out there." Ka'rus said looking straight ahead rather then at the elder, he seemed to stop and followed her gaze towards the sunset out a head.

"Then I suppose you would know that she almost died because she didn't listen when someone told her to run, correct?" He spoke, but Ka'rus wasn't interested. The fact she remained silent seemed to make him chuckle as he went on. "I was there you know. Saw it for myself."

This fool was starting to get on her nerves and she was beginning to blame him for this whole problem. He slowed her up with this so called storytelling, distracted her from a possible chance at proving herself. And now Ka'rus would have to walk home and explain to her Mother why they don't have a new Councilor in place.

"So what you were there with the rescue team or one of the medics. Whatever, I don't have time for this. I'm waiting for someone named Voras and from the looks of it they are a no show" She huffed clearly frustrated with her own failure. Then when the Elder laughed Ka'rus snapped her head around face giving him a look that could kill.

"Who said he is a no show hmm?" The Elder probbed even though he probably knew he was on thin ice right now.

"Ah look around old fool, there is no one here but me, you and some of the security guards." Ka'rus shrugged as she gestured around them. Alone with the darkness slowly coming overhead. This wasn't looking good for her right now.

"Your Mother was the same too. So focused on the task ahead you forget whats infront of you" This time when the elder spoke Ka'rus let out a long sigh clearly annoyed with the whole 'same as your mother' treatment.

"What are you even doing here? I'm not interested in a history lesson or to be told how much I'm like my Mother! So why don't you just go along your own way and leave me be hmm?" Ka'rus sternly said as she turned facing the Elder with hands on hips.

The old fool seemed to look off into the distance for sometime before he finally turned around and looked at her, an odd smile was on his face.

"I'm waiting" Was all he said.

"FOR WHAT!" Ka'rus through her hands in the air, she was so very close to just picking this guy up and making him walk in the opposite direction.

"For you to realize" He spoke with little concern or hesitation despite Ka'rus temper tantrum.

If her lips could purse in disbelief it would of as she looked at the Elder. Surly he was just pulling her leg, there was no way anyone named Voras with as much skill as her Mother seemed to put into him that he would just ponder around and play games.

"I dont believe you" Ka'rus said folding her arms and looking away from him. "If you really are Voras then tell me about the soldiers" Ka'rus said testing him, she knew the story off by heart rather than the reports.

"Spartans you mean? Humans sent here on behalf of the UNSC to help aid us. They didn't trust us at first and unfortunately one of them betrayed all of us. Killed his own team and all for what? Power? Foolish boy didn't know who he was going against when he fought your Mother" The Elder spoke leaving Ka'rus speechless.

So this really was Voras, but why waste her time? She didn't comprehend that as she looked at him trying to work out what his deal was. Though before she could speak up he seemed to beat her to it.

"I understand now why your Mother asked for me to come here. Your young and like her you need a lot of guidance. Tell her I accept to become the new Councilor of Durram" Voras said firmly but still with the soft smile on his face not even giving her a chance to interrupt him.

"Uh no offence but-" Ka'rus said but again interrupted by Voras.

"And no offense to you but you lack a lot, you need to slow down and learn a little more" Voras said before adding. "And to ease your conscience yes I'm qualified for the job. Spent many years fighting on the frontlines, decided to become a trainer and eventually figured I'd spent enough years fighting to train for a Counselor. Would you like to see my data?" He seemed to taunt her as he held the data pad out waving it.

"No...Thanks" Finally Ka'rus said confused trying to take this all in.

"Then let it be that. If you require me for any reason I'll be in the Cathedral setting up." Voras said as he turned heading inside the Cathedral.

"Wait...you came here already prepared?" Ka'rus said watching the elder walk up the steps.

"Trust me I pack light. Please inform your Mother and report early in the morning for your training as Kaidon" Voras said before disappearing inside the building.

"Training? Wha-" He was already gone before she could ask him what for, but she had a feeling it was all to do with her new role that she would soon have to do, as if her duty and right as the Heir to Durram state.