May the Mantle be Denied

by tom476ty18

In the 84th Age of Doubt, the Covenant in is turmoil. With the failures of finding the sacred ring mounting. The Covenant now finds itself on the verge of fracturing. Until the discovery of a single-star system threaten to destroy everything the Covenant knew. Will the Covenant stay together or will it collapse and meets its end? [AU]

5. Chapter 4 Part 1 The Arrival

Chapter 4:

Sol System Interstellar Assembly

Sol System

February 20th 4525 AD

9:10 AM

In the assembly hall of the Interstellar Assembly, there was chaos. The representatives of the eight hundred interstellar colonies along with the representatives of the nations present in the Sol System were at each other's throats. The shouting match began almost an hour ago, and in the midst of that chaos there was indecision and confusion. President Thomas Adler who was on a shuttle to the Assembly headquarters, a massive megastructure station built for interstellar diplomacy, didn't blame the representatives for this behaviour. In previous times, the majority of the representatives would often engage in the most civil conservation and debates to showcase the best of interstellar diplomacy. But however, today was anything but ordinary. The meeting today at the assembly was supposed to be a showcase of unity but instead turned into a shouting match on who will get to negotiate with the aliens first. And who will benefit from the first initial negotiations?

Interstellar diplomacy was an interesting factor in today's modern society. Due to the vast distances between Sol and the Interstellar colonies, most policies dictated in the assembly would most often never affect the colonies in any way. As many of the colonies could simply choose to ignore these policies or not care at all. As dictated by their self-governance, these policies are mostly geared toward establishing harmonious relations, cooperations, and mutually beneficial trade between Sol and the Colonies. As such, Sol cannot dictate what the colonies can do, while the colonies are allowed to voice their concerns and grievances over certain trade deals and rights. Or they can negotiate new trade deals with several corporations.

As for the Alien ambassador to the five races that mankind has encountered. This relation has mostly been similar to what the Nations of Sol have with their interstellar colonies. A relation based upon the terms of mutual respect and cooperation along with free trade deals. However, despite the existence of the Interstellar Assembly. It has at times, been criticized by many for being too slow, inefficient, and ineffective. This is mainly due to the fact that due to the lack of a faster-than-light way of travel and communication. Representatives of the colonies would often have to wait decades or centuries to get a response from their colonial or interstellar government. An average of two resolutions are passed every five decades. With most taking decades to even centuries to even take effect. It is a testament to will and commitment that the Interstellar Assembly is still active despite these issues to say at least.

However, that very same organization is now facing the greatest challenge since its inception before the War of Sol. Already the issues that have plagued it now threaten to unravel the centuries of hard work the organisation had put together to maintain some semblance of unity between the various human nations. The Unified Earth Government was no different. President Thomas Adler recalls the issue that he was forced to deal with throughout the years of his presidential term. For the longest time, the UEG was a government that was plagued by problems, from its early formation to the present day. One of the most glaring and current issues was the structure of how the UEG's formal military is now operating. It was actually an open secret to many nations across Sol and the interstellar human community that the UNSC, the main military force of the Unified Earth Government was a quasi-independent organisation. A situation that has caused immense headaches to the UEG for centuries and one that has created a feeling of animosity between the officials of the UEG and the UNSC.

The previous presidential administrations including the current incumbent, Thomas Adler, had done their best to try and get the two organisations to work together. He had his work cut out for him. This issue was only made worse by the Earth blocs which represent the bulk of the UEG's power, clout, and political base. Who themselves had immense suspicions about the UNSC's intention. The Earth Economic Bloc or EEB for short were four economic blocs that controlled the planet and were the four founding members that lead to the creation of the Unified Earth Government. In the years since the disaster that swept across the Solar System. Earth was reorganized into four economic blocs in order to reconstruct the divided and devastated Earth sphere. These are the Euro-Central-African Union, the Asian-Oceanian Federation, the Union of Americas, and the Artic Union. Earth began its post-war recovery under this new world order.

As the world rebuilt, an international organization was needed to ensure that mankind would be unified when they were ready to reclaim the interplanetary colonies lost during the Disaster. As such, this led to the creation of the Unified Earth Government of today. Since then, these blocs had disbanded their own militaries, in favour of the UEG's UNSC force to protect them. But following the System Wars, everything changed. In the durational years of the System Wars, the UEG became side-line by the UNSC as it waged war against the insurgents. When the war ended it was pretty clear the UNSC was in direct control over the government. Through a series of unrecorded private discussions and negotiations between the two sides. To ensure the safe transition of power back towards the civilian government. The UNSC and the UEG reached a comprise, as President Adler refer to it an unequal deal. It was called the Treaty of Balance Protection and Governance. This treaty essentially made the UNSC a quasi-independent Military force that is "Contracted" by the UEG to defend its interest. Which during times of peril the UNSC will take control of the government to end the threat, and in return the UNSC relinquish control back to the civilian government during peacetime.

President Thomas Adler could only metaphorically roll his eye at that thought. It was pretty clear the treaty allowed the UNSC free reign to do whatever the hell it wants. Despite the UEG being a major source of its budget. The UEG itself as dictated by the Treaty couldn't interfere with what the UNSC is doing with that funding. To many in the UEG and the president especially this situation was somewhat unacceptable. However, these issues were offset by the civilian government power given in the treaty which stop any further complaint; military strategies and planning was also something the UEG had some control over. The UEG did have a say in the decision-making process of planning for military strategies or even voicing their concerns. As the treaty formally states that the UNSC needs the direct approval of the President and his cabinet to enact their strategies and military operations to serve as a kind of checks-and-balance against the ever-growing ambitious and at times rogue military organisation.

But despite these assurances and clauses, it still didn't sit very well with the Economic Blocs back on Earth. Who unsurprisingly in response brought back its own military forces. But as many might know these forces pale in terms of funding and equipment compared to the UNSC. The UEG could not afford to cut loose the organisation. As it may pose a danger to not only itself but to others, having direct control over some of humanity's largest and best military assets at its disposal. And as historical records have shown the UNSC is capable of generating cash from somewhere even the UEG's Judge Advocate General's inquisition team sent to investigate the matter only came back with nothing with no clear signs of where or who were they getting their secret funding from.

With concerns mounting over the now considered rogue organisation and its agenda and endgame. And combined with the belief that an unknown foreign third party have compromised and subverted the force under its influence. The four Economic Blocs and the UEG secretly commission an investigation bureau and intelligence agency to spy directly on the UNSC and by extension the Office of Naval Intelligences. An agency which swore allegiance directly to the UEG and the office of the President. Designed to ensure the security and loyalty of the UNSC to the Unified Earth Government. This organisation works to ensure all the funding given by the UEG to the UNSC is used property. If a push comes with a shove, covert agents are embedded into the UNSC upper Echelons to ensure the money given is used properly. Since the agency was founded in the decades after the War of Sol the organisation admass several databases worth of collection of intelligence regarding the situation. There was also information which the President himself wasn't aware of until recently. Such as the deal made by the UEG administration during the aftermath of the System Wars to free the colonies from Earth's control to deny the UNSC the resources needed to expand its forces. And allow for the creation of this compromise, etc.

To the President, all of this sounds like a really bad thriller movie. "The UNSC and the UEG undergoing a cold war between themselves, who would have thought." Said the President to himself bemused at the situation. Even now the information gathered only created more confusion as only recently a shy of a decade ago the Office of Naval Intelligence itself has gone semi-rogue and became quasi-independent itself. In an act similar to how the UNSC was to the UEG. The situation in his opinion had gotten out of control. To make matters worse, this situation is already catching the clear attention of the civilian population who remained completely ignorant of the whole situation until now. With some even raising uncomfortable questions of who was controlling who.

It was a great question. Who was in control or who thought they were in control but were actually being controlled themselves? It was these questions that kept the President up at night. As during the centuries after the War of Sol, the investigation into this "third party" only revealed the true extent of their influences. The Agency tasked by the UEG only uncovered a small percentage of companies and groups affiliated with this "Third Party." It was very clear that this "Third Party" had been around for an unknown number of years, with some estimates placing it to be thousands of years old. Explained by their massive influence base and grip on power. As of now, they still don't know how widespread they are, but the uncovered groups already painted a sinister conclusion to the President. To put it simply they were everywhere and too widespread to clean out. The arrival of the Faster-Than-Light aliens had only put a temporary stop to the issue for now. As evident the UNSC and ONI were willing to work with the UEG together in regard to the defences of humanity against the alien's arrival and potential hostilities to acts of aggression. For now, this issue can wait as President Adler thought. As his shuttle now arriving at the Assembly headquarters, he cleared his thought for the next task at hand. Now he must face the squabbling diplomats and bring them to a unified accord and consensus regarding the newly arriving aliens.

Walking to the assembly floor where all the representatives are gathered. He looked around the assembly viewing the representatives that have gathered here today. Representatives from nations all over Sol had gathered today to discuss the latest issues concerning the first contact with the FTL aliens. There were also representatives from the interstellar human community and the other alien races as well. Although with how communication was in the modern period. Taking years for the message to reach the colonies, and the representatives here today are merely just for a symbolic gesture. United mankind and their partnered foreign alien powers. United in unity for the face of First Contact with a new alien species. It was a way to showcase the unity and peaceful cooperation and trade. With good relations based upon the ideas of mutual respect and beneficial trade deals. It was this face in the Interstellar Assembly that wished to show to these aliens.

A face that President Thomas Adler respected. After all, it was humanity's greatest pride that they were able to create this age of peace, cooperation, and prosperity. With the alien arrival, there had been a motion in the UEG senate to at least attempt to negotiate with them. If proven successful, then mankind would face a new age of prosperity never seen since the last age. As of now, President Adler's mission is to convince the Interstellar Assembly to be united and entertained with the idea of talks with the aliens. To his credit and relief, his ideas had already entertained some representatives of the Interstellar Assembly on the idea. Standing up to the podium he looked at the gathered representatives that could make it today as the hall grew silent awaiting the speech he was about to give.

"My fellow representatives of Humanity and its alien neighbours." He began. "Today we faced an unprecedented situation in the history of our species. For as long as we can remember we once believed that we were the only intelligent race in the universe. However, that was forever changed by the discovery of aliens in other star systems. Which answered the once famous question 'Are we Alone?'. Now with the arrival of aliens via faster-than-light technology. One of the other questions 'Are their civilization more advance than we exist?' has been answered. That is what happened Six months ago, an unidentified ship of an unidentified alien civilization made first contact with us. Initially, we thought they were a civilization, colonists with slower-than-light technology just like us and the other alien civilization we have encountered. Until that is when they showcase their faster-than-light technology via a massive portal. We knew from that day on our daily lives had changed forever. We now stand on the crux of a new era, where we have now made first contact with an alien civilization with technologies we have only begun to imagine. As such, I implore the representatives gathered here today to unite as a show of unity. We must show the aliens the true face of humanity, as the saying goes 'united we stand, divided we fall' as goes we must unite in unity to face the aliens and show that we are equals to them!"

Applause occurred after the opening speech of President Thomas Adler. As he looked across the crowd, he could see the faces of the representatives of the nations that were once enemies of the Unified Earth Government. All of them were nodding at the speech. 'It is amazing what an outside force can do to force humanity to unite.' He thought as he smiled and wave to the crowd. Before returning to his seat. The speaker of the Interstellar Assembly began to call out the next representatives.

"Can I have the Martian Republic Representatives come and-" but was suddenly interrupted when a horde of aides and military staff suddenly burst into the Interstellar Assembly.

"What is the meaning of this!?" yelled the speaker.

"Mr President, Prime Minister, and other leaders. We have a situation." One of the Aides replied.

"What is it?" asked President Adler worried as he looked at their expression. Which only showed signs of dread and worry.

"The alien ships six months ago…They have returned Mr President." The aide announced.

An uproar had occurred across the room as the representatives took in the implication of that news. Already the leaders of the nations of Sol were contacting the military and other government officials. President Adler was no different.

"Do we have the status of their action?" asked the President.

"Yes, we do on screen now." One of the staff said.

"Well lets us see it then." Said the President.

The president and the leaders of Sol along with other representatives watch the screen as it displayed the live feed of the alien current position. The crowd of men and women in the assembly stared in awe as the aliens arrived via their faster-than-light technology. Appearing from portals, with the blue rim indicating the portal's event horizon. At first, it was a fleet of around twenty-three ships that arrived. President Adler could feel the excitement in the air as the first alien fleet arrived. There was hope that the aliens were peaceful. Then that hope died as more ships arrived followed by more. It then that the people in the assembly realized that this may not be a peaceful arrival after all.

After that came the appearance of a fleet of larger ships followed by the appearance of a large mobile station. If the situation wasn't bad enough, then came the appearance of a gargantuan mushroom-shaped station that seemed to dwarf the previous arrival. At this point the hope and optimism that the alien was peaceful quietly died. Now came the fear of a war, one that may break the centuries-long peace since the War of Sol. To make matters worse the station came with a massive escort of ships that seem to be arriving to no end. It was only a matter of time, wasting no time President Adler quickly acted.

"Get me in line with the UNSC High Command at once!" he ordered his aide.

"Right away Sir!" answered the Aide as he rushed to quickly secure contact with the UNSC High Command.

The President found himself running towards the nearest secure room by his bodyguards as they got him to safety amidst the chaos of the crowd following the alien arrival. He arrived at a secure conference room only meant for the solar systems' highest leaders. Sitting down on the chair located at the far end of the table he turned towards the screen waiting in anticipation as his staff and cabinet sat down. The screen then turned on showing Fleet Admiral Terrance, wearing but filled with determination.

"Mr President, it is good to see you. As you can see, we are a bit busy at the moment with our hands full." He addresses the president.

President Thomas Adler for a brief moment thought to himself. 'This is it.' He said to himself, the aliens were here and now it was time to make history. For good or for worse, only time will tell. As he faced the Fleet Admiral with a determined look.

UNSC Strategic Coordination Centre

Sol System

February 20th 4525 AD

9:20 AM

It was all-out chaos within the UNSC Strategic Coordination Centre. Just a few days since the UNSC Fleet Command meeting and just a regular day as well. A fleet of alien ships belonging to the same race thanks to the design entered the Sol System. It was sudden at first, there was no warning just the sudden appearance of "portals" which emerged from nowhere and have now entered the Sol System. Fleet Admiral David Terrance watched the monitor with a grim determination. The aliens were here and the contingency plan they had established over the last six months and just days ago was now coming into effect. Now the hope is these aliens were peaceful. A hope that was slowly dying as the number of ships started to increase and was showing no signs of stopping.

At first, a fleet of twenty-three ships entered the Sol System. Which was initially thought to be a first contact party with their security. But then more ships arrived, followed by more and more. Eventually, the conclusion that UNSC High Command and the Fleet Admiral could come up with was that it was either a small raiding force or an invasion fleet. The latter was the most definite conclusion as showcased by the endless streams of warships that kept coming. Already just after five minutes, the number of ships has already reached around five hundred and still counting. It was only a matter of time before someone does something irrational. Fleet Admiral David Terrance had only seconds to decide his next course of action. One that may determine the fate of humanity in the next few minutes.

"What is our Sitrep?" Yelled the Fleet Admiral to the officer of the Strategic Coordination Centre command station.

"On high alert sir." The officer replied. "We have Admiral Fredrick Raines in command of the third fleet ready to engage on your order admiral."

"Composition of the Fleet?" Asked the Fleet Admiral.

"Five Halcyon-class Cruisers, twenty-three Halberd-class Destroyers, and twenty-eight Stalwart-class light frigates." The Officer informed the Fleet admiral.

"Alright do we have any other Fleets in the AO?" He again inquired.

"Yes, we have Admiral Coupe and the eight-fleet preparing the inner system for siege sir." Replied the Officer. "We also have Vice-Admiral Williams sir, with Battle Group Rhino, consisting of two carriers and several cruisers along with a flotilla of destroyers. He also has a few corvettes and frigates at his disposal."

"Well tell him to link up with Admiral Coupe and prepare the defences there." Ordered Fleet Admiral Terrance.

"It will be done, fleet admiral." Replied the Officer.

"What is the status of the fleets from other Sol Nations?" asked Fleet Admiral Terrance.

"All nations have been placed on high alert just like us admiral. All their Ships are out sortie and patrol; on that note, the Martian Republic have just brought their dormant Iserlohn-class battle stations moons back online." Answered another officer.

Nodding to the officer the fleet admiral then turns his head towards the tactical display shown on the holo-table. Detailing the current fleet position of UNSC and other Sol nations across the star system. As confirmed by the officer, all ships of the nations of Sol had slipped anchors and were now on high alert. Tensions were running high which was not helped by the reactivation of several key military assets owned by these nations.

The Iserlohn-class battle station moons were one of them. With only two ever built kept in orbit around Mars as its new moons, the Iserlohn-class battle station fortress moons have kept the territories of the Martian Republic safe from any UEG-UNSC invasion. The first of these fortresses, named Phobos, had a diameter of 60 kilometres and a mass of nearly 60 trillion tonnes. Its primary weapon was an enormous X-ray beam cannon with an output of 924 million megawatts, the Thor Hammer, which was capable of destroying large numbers of enemy vessels in a single shot. Its docks could berth 20,000 ships, and its dedicated agriculture blocks could sustain both a garrison of up to 2 million and a civilian population of up to 3 million indefinitely. The fortress exterior was a several-layer-thick coating of liquid hydro-metal, which absorbed solid projectiles and reflected directed energy; hundreds of cannon turrets floated in this liquid and would rise to fire at approaching enemies.

The second named Deimos was smaller. At 45 kilometres in diameter, it was of the same order of magnitude as Iserlohn, albeit smaller, and was the second most powerful Imperial fortress. The fortress had a mass of roughly 40 trillion tonnes and could maintain a fleet of up to 16,000 warships within. Its primary armament, a massive X-ray beam cannon called the Vulture's Claw, had a wavelength of 100 ångströms and an energy output of 740 million megawatts, with an effective range of 600,000 kilometres. Like the Phobos fortress of the Iserlohn class, Deimos was encased within a heavy sphere of liquid metal armour, which was thick enough to absorb explosives, and could even reflect laser attacks — making the fortress nearly impregnable.

For the first time, Fleet Admiral Terrance was glad that the asset was on their side. Built-in the centuries since the War of Sol. It gave the UNSC nightmares over its potential capabilities. As even he would not want to be at the wrong end of the cannon the fortress sport; designed to destroy its foes. The Fleet Admiral continued to look at the tactical map for anything asset that he can muster to quickly meet and intercept the aliens.

Just then an announcement occurred in the UNSC's Area wide battle-tactical network. "This is Fleet Admiral J. Harper of the UNSC navy Fifth fleet. We are ready for action, we preparing to engage the enemy."

"Negative, Admiral. Form a defensive perimeter around the defensive cluster. You can't engage just yet. Not against a fleet that size." Ordered Fleet Admiral Terrance.

"Roger that, Fleet Admiral, we of the Fifth Fleet consisting of eight Marathon-class heavy cruisers and sixty-seven Stalwart-class light frigates are ready to sortie and action on your order." Replied Fleet Admiral Harper.

"Acknowledge Fleet Admiral but be advised the alien fleet is larger than yours. We still don't know their full capabilities and do not engage. Engage when fire upon, we're trying to send reinforcement to your position at once." Explained Fleet Admiral Terrance.

"Roger that holding position." Answered Fleet Admiral Harper signing off.

Fleet Admiral David Terrance looked back at the tactical display with concern and grim determination. The arriving alien fleet had already formed a defensive position right outside the Scatter disk. The arriving alien fleet, however, was just content with just holding position. Fleet Admiral Terrance believed that it was a good thing for now. They still don't know the alien capabilities just yet and he was not willing to fire the first shot just to find out.

As the officers in the command room had begun relaying his orders to the UNSC fleets scattered across the Solar System. The fleet admiral himself scanned the alien fleet's every move for any signs of weakness and to discern any visible patterns to strategies they might employ. As he studied the Alien Fleet, he began classifying the ships based on their size and what he assumed would be their purpose. It was a rough prediction based on the sizes as a result he may get everything wrong about the intent and purpose of the different ship classes. Nevertheless, despite the issues of assumption, Fleet Admiral Terrance needs to find out the enemy's potential next move. As such, he began studying the movement of the alien fleet based on the classification he had given the ships. Attempting to predict every move that they might make, which was a long shot at best, but it was better than nothing.

As he scans the holo-table showing the position and movement of the alien fleet. He notice that the fleet was moving into a crescent shape formation with the outward ships facing closer to the UNSC. He caught a note of that, in his mind, theories and ideas were racing. He eventually concluded that the initial fleet was protecting either the diplomats or waiting for the arrival of the main fleet. He was hoping it was the former as it would be a sigh of relief that the aliens were peaceful. However, he was banking it was the latter, considering the number of ships that have arrived it was looking more and more like it was going to be that possibility. Before he could ponder that possibility the alarm rang across the room.

"Alert, enemy portal appearing." Yelled one of the officials in the command room.

"How many?" Asked Fleet Admiral Terrance.

"It's… just two?" Said the officer confused himself.

"Just two?" Asked the Fleet Admiral.

"Yes admiral, it's larger than anything we have seen from the aliens so far." Replied the officer.

"I want it on screen now!" Yelled Fleet Admiral Terrance.

"At once!" answered the Officer.

All eyes were glued to the newly created rifts in reality. There was a feeling of dread as the size of the portal hit home. The smaller of the large rift suddenly stabilized and as suddenly as it began, a massive object appeared out of the portal. It was clear that it was larger than the largest ship in the fleet. It was shaped like a figure-eight, with two tear-drop-shaped bulbous sections connected at the centre. From what the fleet admiral could assume it was a mobile anchorage or station. Surrounding it was a fleet, which the fleet admiral believed was the object's escorts.

"Specifications?" Ordered Fleet Admiral Terrance.

"Each of the two tear-drop sections is 15 kilometres (9.3 miles) long which makes it 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) long in total. It's larger than the several 28-kilometre monsters in the fleet. It is also supported by a fleet of roughly more than five hundred ships of different classes of admiral. Our initial intelligence believes it is some kind of mobile anchorage facility used by the aliens." Answered the officer.

The Fleet Admiral nodded, as he looked at the newest movement from the alien fleet now. Some of the ships in the initial alien fleet formation quickly move to guard the station. The rest had begun to cover the entrance of the larger rift. All eyes were glued to the larger rift as the personnel in the room waited in anticipation of what was coming out of the rift. As the rift stabilized and the object arrived. All jaws dropped in the room as they saw what had arrived. It was a massive station of unimaginable magnitude far larger than anything the alien had brought in before. This was amplified by the arrival of its escorts. A truly massive fleet consisting of thousands of ships of various classes.

The confidence of Fleet Admiral David Terrance sank as the threat of the situation sink in. Nevertheless, he was determined to protect mankind to the best of his ability. As the alien numbers finally slowed, the officers of the room entered into a series of discussions on how to proceed. The alien arrival showcases them as a power that was at least to them initially a force far beyond the capacity for the combined force of humanity to fight. The Fleet Admiral lay his eyes into the newly arrived station as he probe its movement in hopes of finding out any potential weakness.

What really caught his attention was the specifics and design gathered by the numerous long-range scanners and listening posts scattered in the area. All focus on gathering data on the largest station that had just arrived. It was the largest station he had ever seen, saved from the massive structures built by man, with a diameter of 348 km/216 miles and 505 km/314 miles tall from top to bottom. Rough estimates from the initial scan of their AI's weight it roughly 100 trillion metric tons. The station itself was reminiscent of a standard fungal mushroom shape. The trunk of the station is filled with branches and stalks that branch out of the main single root core of the station. Providing the station roughly eight thousand umbilical stations use for docking, etc. What interested the Fleet Admiral more is the top mushroom bit of the station.

It was a half semicircle of what appeared to be the remains of a small planetoid or moon. While the trunk, branches and stalk appeared to be the station dockyards, ports, to habitation areas and other facilities. The half-circle top mushroom part of the station was more mysterious. The top bit required more sophisticated scanners to penetrate and see what was inside. Inside revealed by the scan to be a labyrinth of honeycomb networks tunnels and superstructures connecting what looked to be full-fledged cities, unknown facilities, potential manufacturing to industrial areas and hidden dockyards and ports shielded from view by the planetoid shell of the station. This only raises the discussion between the high-ranking officers in the room.

"Good god, it's a mobile factory station." Exclaimed one.

"One that appeared to contain a permanent population nevertheless." Replied another.

"An ideal target; it must be prioritised for destruction if hostilities break out." Suggested one officer.

"Agreed." Nodded another. "Marked that station for destruction, inform the fleet and have all planetary defences focus on that station. If hostilities break out, I want that target destroyed. I don't care if it has the possibility to fail, we have to try."

"Yes Sir!"

"Right away."

The officials were already sprung into action following the alien's arrival. It was just then that the Fleet Admiral received a message from the President. He was demanding info on the current situation. Accepting the call, the Fleet Admiral ready himself to greet the President at a moment's notice. The holo-table screen was then replaced with the view of the president and his cabinet and support staff. From what he could tell the man was worried and expressed a dishevelled appearance. Probably due to the suddenness of the situation and the chaos of the Alien arrival. The Fleet Admiral took a deep breath and began.

"Mr President, it is good to see you. As you can see, we are a bit busy at the moment with our hands full."

"I know that." Barked President Thomas Adler. "The alien's arrival couldn't have come at a better time."

The Fleet Admiral nodded in sympathy. "I understand sir, but the situation is currently fluid as we speak."

"Then out with it." Ordered the President.

"At the current moment in cooperation with the Sol Guard, we have begun the evacuation of civilians within the AO." Explained the Fleet Admiral.

"Excellent." He nodded. "Next?"

"An exclusion zone has been established between us and the local space the alien fleet and its stations have occupied. This would give us a distance of millions of kilometres between us and them." The fleet admiral continued.

"I see." Said the President. "Is there anything else you would like to mention?"

"More contacts incoming!" yelled one of the officers. Interrupting the conversation between the pair.

"As of now, Mr President the alien fleet is currently growing as we speak. So far, we haven't seen any indication of any hostile action by the aliens. However, I wouldn't let my guard down." The fleet admiral admitted.

"Agreed, you have full permission to use all force at your disposal to defend humanity if the aliens prove hostile." Replied the President.

"It will be done, Mr President." Answered the fleet admiral.

Signing off, the fleet admiral looked back at the tactical display to see the new contacts that have just arrived. Viewing the newly arrived fleet of thousands of more ships. The fleet admiral began to wonder how many ships the faster-than-light alien civilization actually had. As in the past hour, their numbers kept growing and growing. Based on their own history, Fleet Admiral Terrance the aliens may have tens of millions to hundreds of millions of ships. Which is based on the idea of an FTL civilization, with the ability to easily access the countless bountiful world and star systems across the galaxy. All full of resources at their disposal to exploit and expand.

With the number of ships arriving, it appears that is the case. The same sentiment was echoed by the staff in the command room. They had thought that the number of ships was decreasing following the arrival of the massive station. Now it appears that it is not the case.

"Jesus Christ." Exclaimed one officer. "They just keep coming."

"I share your sentiment as well, but it would appear the aliens have an industry much larger than us." Said, Fleet Admiral Terrance.

"Can we beat them off, sir?" Said one officer in particular.

"I have to be fairly honest with you. I don't even know." Fleet Admiral Terrance admitted. "But that doesn't stop us from inflicting as much damage on them if they prove to be hostile. If they dare bare fangs against us, then they will face not a weak race but a strong race who is willing to drain them of so much of their power that they will achieve only defeat not victory."

A unanimous cheer echoed throughout the command room and across the station. A rousing speech to uplift the masses and raise morale before the storm of the battle. Fleet admiral David Terrance looked at the screen with grim determination. Only time would tell if a war would break out between their races.

"May God help us all." The fleet admiral murmured unsure of the events to come.

High Charity & Unyielding Hierophant

Covenant Armada/Pilgrim Fleet

Sol System

February 20th 4525 AD

9:20 AM

Imperial Admiral Xytan 'Jar Wattinree of the Covenant Military had his reservation about the current situation. Imperial Admiral Xytan 'Jar Wattinree was a Sangheili naval officer in the forces of the Covenant empire. As one of the empire's most capable and prestigious officers, Wattinree rose to the rank of Imperial Admiral only one of the three highest-ranking leaders of the Covenant military forces- and was ultimately relegated by the Hierarchs to command the Combined Fleet of Righteous Purpose in exile at the borders of Covenant space. He was also far larger than most Sangheili, standing at a height of eleven and a half feet tall - or three and a half metres. Which only boosts his prestige, power, and status even more in the Covenant. As a result of his rank and his proximity, his fleet was invited the join High Charity to go to the location of the now-dubbed "Scared Place". Because of this, he is now given command of the naval group guarding High Charity in the Sacred Place.

However, like many in the Covenant, didn't at first believe the reports of what the Truth of Darkness commanded by Shipmaster Rekan 'Radumee gave to the wider Covenant. Naturally, the Sangheili shipmaster was interrogated and grilled for any signs of Heresy or false information. After determining that he was free of Heresy, the Hierarchs send several ships to locate the system and confirm his reports. They all did, and so a plan was launched to have the High prophets visit the site and see for themselves. Unfortunately, the word got out and as a result, billions of devoted followers demanded they see the Sacred Place and its treasures. It nearly erupted into a full fledge war and schism between the member species of the Covenant and the ministries. It was only the action of the three High Prophets: High Prophetess of Obligation, High Prophet of Tolerance, and High Prophet of Restraint who quelled the violence before it even began.

Thus, a comprised was created, High Charity would be the first to go to the place along with the billions of followers who were lucky that they can join to be the first to see. The rest would commandeer other ships once High Charity had entered and the High Prophet declares the place legitimate. To also facilitate the utmost top security to the Prophets, the Covenant Military's command-and-control centre and refit-battle station that was capable of supporting a fleet of over 500 capital ships, the Unyielding Hierophant was called to ensure extra security for this monumental event. It was capable of Slipspace jumps and was over 10 kilometres (6.3 miles) in circumference and 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) long. The Unyielding Hierophant possessed at least two pinch fusion reactor cores for power.

The Unyielding Hierophant was shaped like a figure-eight, with two tear-drop-shaped bulbous sections connected at the centre, each 15 kilometres (9.3 miles) long which makes it 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) long in total. A rotating ring was connected to the central hub by many long spokes and is used by Covenant cruisers and carriers to dock with the space station. Thin, filament-like tubes extended from both bulbous sections and moved over the surface of the ring; these may be tubes used for transporting personnel and cargo between the ring and other parts of the station. Running the circumference of the station's hub was a repair-and-refit facility, with many slots for Covenant spacecraft to dock and be attended to by Huragok work teams. This section of the ship was crewed by thousands of Huragok and a small number of Unggoy. Inside the main sections, it had large "rooms" that contained environments with foliage, water, and animals to simulate the Covenant's worlds and make occupants feel more at home, rather than on a huge station.

This was also backed up by a fleet of over five hundred warships combined into a single fleet. An unprecedented fleet situation in the history of Military operations conducted by the Covenant for sure. In total, the ships gathered here were the High Charity Defence Fleet, combined with his own fleet the Combined Fleet of Righteous Purpose, the Unyielding Hierophant fleet, and other ships that managed to gain permission to join. It all adds to a rough number of more than six thousand ships. With many more expected to arrive in the hundreds from all over the Covenant's vast territories in the next few days. Overkill as the Imperial Admiral would put it. It was also his criticism and reservations about the plan for first contact. Because it was insane to conduct first contact by sending in thousands of ships, with many would be filled with followers. Who would inevitably interfere with the first contact procedures? Especially when the High Prophets' main agreement was to make peaceful contact with the race who resides in the Sacred Place and who was presumably their custodian or held custodianship over the artefacts of the place.

A fleet like this would make them look like raiders or invaders to the natives. Which would entice the natives to resist or go to war against them. The Imperial Admiral could consider himself and the first contact fleet as lucky. After all, it was a testament to the native's extreme sense of restraint that the natives haven't fired upon them just yet. For some of his officers and shipmasters, it was a show of strength to showcase the might of the Covenant. This tactic wasn't without evidence and merit, being the subjugation of Dosaic the homeworld of the Jiralhanae thousands of years before. Spreading fear, awe, and terror to the "brutes" as the Covenant came down to civilise them. With the discovery of the Sacred Place, the Covenant needed to showcase its strength to the natives and show that they were worthy. At least that is what is believed to allow the natives, who were widely believed to be the custodian of the star system, to grant access to the holy relics.

In the end, the Covenant entered the star system with the largest armada and naval formation since the War of Beginnings, a war which forged the creation of the Covenant. With the discovery of the Sacred Place, the Covenant has entered a new chapter in its thousand years of history. And now it was the duty of the Imperial Admiral to ensure the High Prophet's security and the Covenant's success. As such, he got his work cut out for him. But before he can do anything he must somehow reign control over the crew as they were currently too busy chatting, celebrating, and standing in awe amongst themselves over the sight of the Sacred Place. He can't blame them; it was a sight to behold.

"Rings, Sacred Rings!" shouted one of the Sangheili crewmen on the bridge.

"The rumours were true there are really rings here." Exclaimed another.

"The Great Journey is finally complete my brothers!" a Sangheili zealot shouted elated, his cheers echoed by many others.

The Imperial Admiral sighed to himself as he watched the display. Slamming his hand on the table he quickly silenced the commotion, bringing the bridge's attention to him. He then gave the signal to open the channel connecting the entire fleet. After a brief glance to check that everyone has heard him, he began to address the crews of the vast armada.

"My fellow warriors, zealots, and devoted servants and followers. Today we stand on the cusp of the greatest turning point in our great thousand years of history. Today the Covenant which has existed for the sole purpose to allow us to reach the heavens, I'm honoured to tell you that time is finally here. We faced many challenges, we struggled against our differences, and we were tested in our beliefs. Today I tell you, that our efforts and your devoted spirit allowed us to see the end goal of our journey. Today we see the end of the Great Journey. Now we must pass the final trials that the gods may test us, to see if we are worthy to ascend in their footsteps. Today we shall pass these trials and enter the heavens! Long live the Covenant!"

"Long live the Covenant!" echoed the crew across the vast armada.

Feeling satisfied he then dismissed the crew as they went back to their stations. The Imperial Admiral gaze back at the tactical display on the holo-table detailing the current fleet situation. There was tension as the vast armada of the Covenant Empire faced down upon the natives of this star system. The natives were currently as seen from the display, assembling a fleet to match and intercept them. As of now, no movement was made between the two fleets. The Imperial Admiral himself was ordered by the High Council and the High Prophets to await further instructions from them. As a result, he is currently holding position, until he either receives new orders or he is under attack in which he is allowed to retaliate back.

A message alert suddenly rang out, informing the Imperial Admiral of the message. Viewing the message, he could see it was from the High Prophets. Signalling his communication orders, the Imperial Admiral opened the display to show the High Prophets: High Prophetess of Obligation, High Prophet of Tolerance, and High Prophet of Restraint. Standing to attention, he greeted the highest leaders of the Covenant.

"High Prophets, you honour us with your presence."

"The honour is ours, Imperial Admiral do you know why we have contacted you?" The high Prophetess of Obligation asked.

"It is to receive my orders." Answered the Imperial Admiral.

"That is right." Said the High Prophet of Tolerance. "We the High Prophets of the Covenant at the high council have made our decision. These are your orders listen, well admiral."

As so the Imperial Admiral received his next orders and guidance from the holy leaders. On the next step to approaching this newest obstacle and trial.

…

A few minutes back on High Charity, in the great halls of the High Council located in the Golden City the most sacred and holiest places in the Covenant, there was chaos. As both the San'Shyuum and Sangheili High Councillors were in uproar at the sight before them. Along with the hundreds of billions in High Charity and the thousands of devoted warriors, zealots and countless servants stationed across the Largest Covenant Armada ever assembled. The Three High Prophets, leaders of the vast ancient theocratic empire stared at the display showing a live feed of the star system; they were dumbstruck themselves by the sight.

Just several cycles ago they had thought that the report was given by initially the Truth of Darkness to be false and a sign of heresy. Then came reports, from the other ships whose small stealth probes too saw the sight that was reported by the Truth of Darkness. However, it wasn't until the High Prophets themselves came and verify the report would it appear that their discovery was in fact correct. Now in a very long time, the Great Journey as foretold by their ancient religious teachings would be completed. If only they pass the next series of obstacles and trials that comes next.

As the three High Prophets: The high Prophetess of Obligation, the High Prophet of Tolerance, and the High Prophet of Restraint watched the chaos unfold. The trio couldn't help but be amused at their current situation. Never in their lives, would they finally see the possible end of the Great Journey. And now they are faced with an unprecedented crisis. Which were the contradictions of the religious teachings spoken by the holy oracle, located in the vast forerunner dreadnought that brought death and destruction during the war of beginnings. Now the centrepiece of the Golden City which is located on High Charity. According to the oracle, the Holy Rings were scattered across the galaxy so that they have a higher chance of safety with the hopes of one if not all surviving hidden in the vast unknown.

But the appearance of several "holy rings" in a single star system appeared to have rendered that teaching false. This currently explains the massive argument the three High Prophets are subjected to by the High Council as the San'Shyuum and Sangheili High Councillors argued back and forth over this discrepancy. An argument that was slowly getting out of hand as the two sides of the argument became heated.

"This has been the truth and has been the truth, what the oracle told us was a trial in itself. I don't understand why you can't see it?!" Yelled a San'Shyuum Councillor.

"No, it is YOU who can't see it!" Shouted a Sangheili High Councillor back. "This has to be the location where the false rings are located. Place here to trick us into thinking it is the real rings."

"A trick how?!" retorted another San'Shyuum Councillor. "Then explain why we scoured the galaxy, to the point where our fleets were stretched thin. And yet despite our best efforts, we still haven't found the rings in the past thousands of ages. Why because it was never scattered in the first place. It was placed here in this secluded location hidden, with a deception by the oracle as a trial to test our resolve."

This explanation seemed to gain traction as a majority of the San'Shyuum side of the council agreed with this line of thinking. Unfortunately, the Sangheili side was not fully convinced that this is the case. With already a rebuttal being composed.

"Space is big." Answered on Sangheili. "It takes time and effort to find the rings. After all, it's like finding a small object in a sack of objects. Doesn't this council find it suspicious that the rings are all located in a single place? Just waiting for it to be discovered. This has to be a trick or a trial, to test our true resolve of suffering for the Great Journey. Or giving up for an easy way out."

This explanation was met with approval from the majority of the Sangheili side of the High Council. And surprisingly enough, some San'Shyuum from the other side and neutral factions. Speaking of the neutral factions which consist of both Sangheili and San'Shyuum they have been oddly quiet. Which was noted by the three High Prophets. It was then one of the San'Shyuum from the neutral faction raise a hand to speak. The high prophets looked curious as to what they had to say.

"My fellow councillors." She spoke. "Are we being a little too hastily at our conclusion? We still haven't determined anything yet, considering we have now just arrived at this very star system. We should at least investigate until we can come up with a definitive conclusion."

"Ridiculous, we don't need an investigation we already have what is in front of us to make our assumptions." Said one of the countless Sangheili High Councillors presents here in the chamber.

The High Prophetess of Obligation and her colleagues sighed at that statement. Sometimes they wish the Sangheili can be a little more flexible in their beliefs. A sentiment that was shared by the San'Shyuum in the High Council. But the San'Shyuum of the Neutral faction was unfazed by the retort and so continued as if nothing had happened.

"As I said, we need to investigate, at the current moment we don't have the evidence we needed to make our conclusion. Arguing amongst ourselves will not solve this issue." She spoke, turning to the High Prophets she addressed. "High Prophets, my recommendation is that we need to investigate this matter carefully. So that we can come to a decision."

After this address, the three high prophets looked at each other. In a short silent debate, they all made their decision. The High Prophetess of Obligation turned to face the High Council, who were awaiting their final decision and response to the matter.

"We the three prophets have come to our final decision." She spoke, as the rest of the council stand attention to hear their decree. "With the evidence of the rings in front of us, we have come to the crossroads of our long and great history. Faced with many trials and we have now come across a seemly end to our Great Journey. We stand on a new trial to test our resolve and our commitment. With the Discovery of the Sacred Place, this new trial had begun."

The Prophetess of Obligation paused to allow the dramatic effect to take its course. "We the High Prophets have commenced the beginning of the final step to the path of the gods. Let us, devoted followers of the Covenant undertake these newest trials. Let us ourselves, make our own decision. What awaits us will be determined by us and us alone. As of now, we the High Prophets declare a period of investigation we shall seek the truth and the truth itself!"

What followed was thunderous applause by the High Council. No rebuttal was made, the High Prophet's decree and very words were the law, and no one was to disobey that. As the High Council cheered in applause. The other two high prophets had questions for the Prophetess of Obligations.

"Are we not going to consult the Holy Oracle?" Asked the Prophet of Tolerance.

"I second that motion." Said the Prophet of Restraint.

"My fellow Prophets there is no need to consult the Holy Oracle." Answered the Prophetess of Obligations.

"And why is that High Prophetess?" asked the Prophet of Restraint.

"Because going by the Sangheili High Councillor's logic the Holy Oracle would not explain the rings located here. Or least be able to." She explained. "If we are to find out the truth it would have to be our own independent investigation and our own conclusion."

"So, in this case, we are on our own then?" the Prophet of Tolerance stated.

"That is right." Confirmed the Prophetess.

"So, what's our plan then?" asked the Prophet of Restraint.

"We first contact the species that inhabit this star system. While we are engaging in a diplomatic talk with this species. Our investigation team will investigate the sacred rings themselves, while this species is distracted by our diplomacy." Said Obligation.

"I must admit, I have concerns over this plan it is not something we usually do if one is to reference our own history." Said Restraint. "When we usually meet a new race it's usually under the crushing force which is our military."

"Well in this case we may not have this opportunity." Said Obligation.

"Oh, why is that the case?" asked Tolerance.

"Because brother, considering the fact that the scans show the natives on the sacred rings, they may or may not have reverse-engineered key weapons systems on the rings like our ancestors did when we first found the dreadnought back in our home world. This is not counting if the Sacred Place have other relics or facilities present. The natives may have weapons that we may not have. Call it playing safe, after all, we cannot afford to wage another war, especially after the second Unggoy uprising. Our military hasn't exactly recovered following this incident. I would like to not experience and deal with a similar event ever again." Said Obligation.

The two prophets nodded in agreement. The second Unggoy uprising was the most serious uprising to have ever occurred in the Covenant. An event that nearly brought the thousand's year Empire to its knees. It was triggered by many factors; the common cause was the treatment of the Unggoy by the races in the Covenant ridged caste system. Being the lowest of the low they were used as slaves and cannon fodder. Despite the first uprising which brought better treatment to the Unggoy. Centuries of exploitation and dissatisfaction only grew. The failure of the first uprising was only a band-aid on a gaping wound.

Eventually, this would cumulate into the second and more devastating uprising. It was also this rebellion that exposed the Covenant's key internal weaknesses. The Unggoy and the lower races of the Covenant caste system and the fringe were responsible for the majority of the Covenant's key important infrastructure across the empire. Key systems and facilities such as manufacturing, agriculture, etc, which the lower caste was responsible for managing. This left the higher tier race of the caste free from such lower tasks. Thus, when the second uprising occurred the entire system was paralyzed which delayed the Covenant response to the empire-wide insurrection movement. It causes situations unthinkable in the Covenant for example an empire-wide famine to occur.

To make matters worse the Unggoy and the lower races make up the majority of the Covenant fighting force. So, when they rebelled the Covenant military power was reduced to a significant amount. With the removal and purging of the lower caste races from the Covenant military forces. Until a temporary solution could come up. The Covenant itself found it difficult to rebuild the military back to where it was before the uprising. To make matters worse to prevent a crippling of infrastructure from ever occurring some of the higher races in the caste were forced to work in tasks which were once the duty of the lower caste. This was put in place to prevent a system-wide collapse seen during the second uprising. This action however caused anger and tension to emerge amongst the races of the higher tier. All in all, a full-blown collapse of the Covenant was imminent.

Unless they did something thus, the three current High Prophets had begun to send out their fleet in hopes of finding the sacred rings quickly to stave off the collapse. Which now leads to their current situation with the discovery of the Sacred Place. Now they have to deal with this discovery and hope that the Covenant stays together long enough for them to save it from a collapse.

"I see if that is the case, I'll contact Imperial Admiral Xytan 'Jar Wattinree." Said Restraint.

"Yes, once we translate the native's language and engage in diplomacy our plan shall commence." Nodded Tolerance.

"And then we shall see if these are truly the Sacred Rings." Said Obligation looking at the display of the star system.

And so, begins the contact between the two different but alien civilizations. In time a revelation and truth would soon be revealed, a secret which would rock both civilizations to their core. And then the true trials as foretold by the Holy Oracle will only truly begin.

A/N:

Sorry, it took so long to get this chapter out. Christmas and the New Year along with IRL forced my attention elsewhere so I hope you enjoy this late Christmas gift.

Writing this chapter itself was also a pain. As I had to redo everything and rewrite some parts, for example, the conspiracy plotline. I may have to return to that and redo that in the near future. Regardless I managed to somehow write 10k worth of words in a single chapter. And now I'm forced to delay the eventual meeting until the next chapter. Ideas just keep coming which in turn stretch out the chapters longer.

So anyways, the Covenant finally arrives in the Solar System and they brought with them a massive fleet and High Charity. Now before you can begin asking why the Covenant brought in their capital station. Which sounds like a dumb idea on part of the Covenant. You do have to take into account that High Charity sports one of the strongest shield and defence systems in the galaxy. Salvaged from a Forerunner Fortress-class vessel it is probably one of the safest places for the High Prophets to be in. Combined with a large defensive fleet escorting it and the numerous defence installation installed by the Covenant themselves.

Moreover, considering the appearance of what they think are multiple "sacred rings" in the solar system. A lot of people would want to see this for themselves. One is the high council and other leaders from various ministries to the countless billions of devoted followers. Thus, High Charity is probably the only platform that can house these pilgrims while serving as a station to facilitate a line of transit for pilgrims to see the rings.

As for humanity, they are obviously panicking as they hadn't expected the appearance of so many ships. Can't blame them for that reaction. Humanity is already preparing a response to the Covenant's arrival in Sol. The Martian Iserlohn class fortress moon is something I gave humanity as a showcase of their technological strength. This idea came from the two fortresses featured in the legends of galactic heroes which I'll reference.

Q/A:

Questions and concerns:

I will try to explain as much as I can. Otherwise, this Q&A session will just fill this chapter so let's begin.

"serving as that world's moon.." movie wasn't as good sadly.

I agree it's a shame that the movie didn't do better. I was so invested in the lore of the story though. Which I find more interesting than the plot of the entire movie.

"eighty percent readiness..." diminishes the issues explained in the last chapter.

That is the point, the UNSC needed to be up and ready as quickly as possible. They had roughly six months to get it done. Which allowed them to have at least most of their military ready for any action. This includes recalling personnel back from shore leaves, calling reserves and getting mothballed ships into service as quickly as possible.

"hollow.." they build their planets as shells? Doesn't that waste space and compromise structural stability, even as a sphere?

They built the planet's "shells" which form the skeleton. This is hollow for the planets located near the sun they then fill it up with other supporting masses or city blocks etc. It depends on what type of planet it is. However, most artificial planets in the solar system are like Forerunner shield worlds. For example, Requiem and Etran Harbourage, in this case, is hollow and the hollow interior contains the artificial biosphere and sun. In this case, this design makes it easy for the planet to be cracked and destroyed by continuous orbital bombardment fire. Throwing rocks would have still caused the integrity of the structure in question it is a massive kinetic planet-killer after all.

draw in the majority..." not possible unless they're stronger than the galaxy's black hole at the centre. Needs to be in a nebula/stellar nursery to get enough hydrogen.

Well, it is a bit of a stretch I must admit. I mean who knows if this is even possible thousand of years in the future. My reasoning is that mankind of this AU has mastered gravity manipulation to the point that they can do this without any issue. So a little suspension of disbelief is needed to enjoy to story. And moreover, the local bubble I think is itself a remnant stellar nursery so yeah a little suspension of disbelief there. Humanity would have mastered the knowledge of stars after creating their first one.

"tectonically unstable..." Mars naturally has no tectonic plates as it lacks a hot enough iron core. Unstable tectonics would see it either mended; as they have the tech to do so(made planets), or abandoned if it isn't worth the effoort.

Mars has been subjected to advance terraforming and Planetary engineering programs. One of these was to reactivate the planet's cold core to create a weak magnetic field again. While weak the magnetic field is supported by magnetic generators located in orbit. But despite this, Mars once again has tectonic activities. Although at a reduced rate. It is currently being fixed right now, but it's a slow process, as they're still new to the tectonic activity on Mars.

1.) nanotech; "in the billions" that's the caveat that it needs to be effective, making it expensive. At any comparable scale, it isn't fast because it builds very small. Hence the metal slab example.

2.) Forerunners and Covenant; forerunners had 3 million worlds and von neumann numbers and level of mining to support it. Covenant vats were large. Plus both are fictional. The point is grounded.

Well like I said at the top. It is mostly a semi-blend of realistic and semi-realistic technology. Humanity, in this case, has nano-fabrication plants that allow them to create amazing things. A little suspension of disbelief here.

1.) Covenant ship numbers; agreed to be generally 20k or up, owned about 1/2 of the orion arm. Where did you get your numbers from?

2.) "struggle in shipbuilding.." never took the war seriously. Hard to up one's navy in peacetime conditions, without a valid reason(most of the war was kept hidden from covenant civilians).

So I took a look back at the Covenant's military and production. And yes, you're right the commonly accepted number is somewhat around 20k or more. My initial numbers were based on my assumption that every star system in the Covenant must have some form of ship production. Considering the Reddit post I read yesterday stated that the Covenant had around 2,000 worlds spread out across Orion's arm. I assumed their numbers to be greater, for the sake of attempting to balance out the two factions. However, lore-wise this won't make sense. As we know it took the Covenant 27-28 years to bring humanity to its knees. The Prophet of Regret in halo wars needed the ships stationed in Etran Harbourage to defeat humanity quickly. As their own numbers weren't enough to secure their own borders and deal with pirates. Which itself says a lot about their naval situation.

The military is even much worse, with the Covenant military being divided and controlled by hundreds of ministries which partake in infighting amongst themselves. I'm surprised the Covenant hasn't completely collapsed yet with all that infighting. This also explains why the Covenant's fleet is usually no more than a hundred ships at most. Hell, it's even lower than that. My average is around fifteen to twenty or thirty ships at most for a single fleet. During the battle of Reach in which three hundred Covenant ships assaulted the Fortress world of Reach. That number itself was already an unprecedented number in the History of the Covenant naval action. This is after the retcon number from seven hundred.

So what does that mean? I believe why the navy is so small because. The High Council and the High Prophets placed a cap on how many ships a ministry can have. So that they can lessen the damage of the infighting in the ministries. If each of the hundreds of ministries within the Covenant had a massive fleet and began fighting, well it's definitely going to piss off the High Council and the High Prophet over the collateral damage that they might inflict upon themselves and the Covenant. There is also the factor of ship production.

It appears after the fall of High Charity Covenant ship production had taken a major hit. This is evidence that some factions such as the Sword of Sangheilos resorted to taking out older ships from the War of Beginnings to supplement their own numbers. From other Reddit sites which I'm still trying to find, the ships and equipment before the Covenant's collapse needed to be blessed by the High Prophet before being put into commission. I'm not exactly sure if this is true or not so take it with a grain of salt. This would mean High Charity would have been one if not the largest manufacturing centre of the entire empire. As evident by the quote "gorged on the wealth of hundreds of worlds." High Charity would have been the major manufacturing centre of ship production before its fall.

And after its fall, the primary assembly forges needed to construct such ships were either in short supply. Or were destroyed during the schism as countless of factions vying for control over the last remaining assembly forges needed to construct their war fleet. There is also the issue of standardization, which the Covenant can't do due to the unique design and technologies of their fabrication plants. Which makes shipbuilding very slow due to the lack of standardization. So no I don't think the war was kept hidden from covenant civilians. The Covenant themselves would have suffered a tremendous amount of casualties to be too much to ever be hidden away. Although that is my option on the matter so far. As such, the current number of ships I have now is roughly fifty thousand to a hundred thousand ships at most. If you factor in the extended time of first contact from the canon series and this AU. I want to know what you think.

1.) "try to hide.." bold assumption. Classified, at the moment, means only that THEY are not qualified to open it.

2.) "locked up and..." bold Assumption. she only has a research paper as reference. Doesn't know of strides made past it. It is though, a SERIOUS point of conflicting interests. One she'd raise to CNO through her contacts, and lead to more internal politics.

3.) "built this.." can't. Useful data's classified.

Well, this is only the tip of the sphere in the conspiracy plotline. Which I am still trying to flesh out. As for building a prototype slipspace, the research paper already gives her the necessary math needed to at least attempt an experiment. They have the tech, but not the math and the concept to create it. ONI didn't censor that part out. However, it would be years at the current pace of research before they can get anything concrete done. Although, the arrival of the Covenant might change that.

1.) "kinetic projectile than..." slow-ish particle beam then.

2.) "significant percentage..." likely electrons, easier to accelerate. Those hit more like lasers than slugs, at such velocities.

3.) "ancient humann ships.." only fibril cutter's known.

Well yes, in this case, a particle beam weapon would look like a laser to an observer at close distances. However, at extremely long distances it would be a large beam travelling. So it's not slow but looked slow when you factor in long distances. And yes only Fibril cutters were known, it's a shame that we don't get to know other ancient human ships in the halo universe.

1.) "send distances over light-years.." easily allows for bomb and other AOE weapons' deployment. Makes warships and warship battles near obsolete(less than a lightyear, 40k km possible from last chapter) till a counter's made.

2.) gate system; should acknowledge idea source unless otherwise. Good habit, and avoids copyright issues.

3.) "bypass...attack and destroy.." a fact applicable to nearly everything, like everything on a planet. Gate would obviously have defenses, contingencies and spare parts, among others, for such.

Well, the gate despite having all these defences would still be targeted and destroyed. Why? it is simple, an enemy force would obviously look to disable or disrupt the logistics of any opposing force. They would have developed weapons that would allow them to achieve this task. Moreover, they don't need to destroy but disable, which causes a lot of issues for the opposing force. Forcing them to protect these essential nodes of travel and limiting their options. Although one might argue the enemy would want to capture the station for themselves. It is a complex topic, as for the gate, it is a mix between the wormhole generators in Stellaris before the developers removed it from the game. And the other gate system is also in Stellaris.

Naval Situation?

I'll try to explain this as much as possible.

I must admit I wasn't aware of the existence of the Orion class assault carrier. Although, I might say it would fit in the Planetary Assault Craft. How this ship is different from the Phoenix II ship I will try my best to explain. And yes the insurrection was mostly a planetary invasion by the UNSC although, one might have to take into account that the majority of the battles during the insurrection weren't full-scale planetary invasions. Just a series of guerilla wars and low-intensity wars, although there was the threat of an all-out war. It never happened due to the Human-Covenant war.

The UNSC High Command during the War of Sol was affected by the ONI disaster of that time period. There was essentially a deep suspicion that a majority of High Command was subverted. Therefore, these officers kept some secrets from their direct superiors. While in itself proving treason as it threatened the Higher admiral's ability to command them effectively. No one was sure who was a traitor and who was not. But in the end, the issue was resolved. But secrets such as these weren't mentioned for the simple reason of nobody asked.

Then there is the clarification over the fact that the Fleet admiral is choosing to commission a rare and expensive supership class over numbers. It looks like he is commissioning a rare and expensive supership. He is still prioritising the construction of strength in numbers. He is only commissioning the construction of the frames, so that humanity can have a major asset to deter alien aggression and as a sign that humanity is equal to them. Whenever it is needed. I hope this clarifies this issue for you.

As for the Phoenix II ship. The orbital infrastructure complex does not get dismantled. That is only the colony ship, and the orbital infrastructure complex is a multitool it can be used depending on the situation. Although admittingly I need to fix this part of the chapter in the near future once I flesh out everything.

Apart from that here is the chapter.

And I hope you enjoy it and do be on the lookout for the next.