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CoR: The Birth of a Covenant Legend by Ryst Airasee
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Birth of a Covenant Legend: Chapter 1
Date: 25 December 2004, 1:32 AM
The room was dark, still. The only light was cold, pouring in from the stars which could be seen from the observation windows in the room. They were sprinkled against a black void painted with purple and blue streaks. Nearby, a gas giant hung in space.
Suddenly, lights among the side of the room lit up, casting brilliant white into the room, glancing off the dark purple walls. In the center of the room a tiny pedestal sat, columns reaching up around it.
Two Prophets entered the room. There were frail-looking and sat in bulbous hovering mechanisms, adorned in rich robes and glistening gold headdresses.
The first had dark brown skin and red robes with gold trim, while the other had white skin and was dressed in gray robes with black trim. They moved from the observation window to a corner of the room where seven murals sat, showing the history of the Covenant.
"We have done well," nodded the white-skinned Prophet. "But now may I inquire the reason behind this meeting, Truth?"
"The reason is this, Mercy..." the other Prophet responded in an authoritative voice.
They turned away from their history and stared towards a door that was cloaked in shadow. The Prophet of Truth moved towards it, pressing his hand against the center. Light shot out from the door, hitting the back wall and disappearing. Slowly, with a low hiss, the door slid open.
The white-skinned Prophet gasped in surprise, his bleary red eyes snapping open. "The lost mural!"
"Indeed it is. Do you know what it shows?" Truth asked, rubbing that clusters of skin that hung from his chin thoughtfully.
Mercy moved forward, studying the cracked piece of stone. It depicted two Prophets raising their arms. A tiny Elite, black in coloration with silver markings, hovered above them. What seemed to be an army of humans lay dead beneath the Prophets, and blood was raining from the sky.
"The Augur," hissed the Prophet of Mercy excitedly.
CHRONICLES OF RIAO:
THE BIRTH OF A COVENANT LEGEND
A deep cavern lay in the bowels of an unknown planet. The bottom of the cavern was filled with rancid, stagnant brown water. The air was musty and foul-smelling, as huge clouds of dust and pollution wafted slowly upwards.
Down in the muck, a creature stirred. The massive beast wrapped its slimy, knobby tentacles around a slab of rock that was tiny in comparison to it. The slab was splattered with filth and cracked with age.
"S-s-so," it gurgled in a deep, distorted voice, rancid breath floating from its mouth, "They... they have found it. But do they truly understand it? That...that is the true question. They listen with joy, yet they know not... the end of the story."
The creature paused, its throat undulating, pushing more heavy breath outwards. The slab slipped from its grasp.
"My minions... they wait in their graves. Yet soon they shall rise. They shall rise and indulge my mind. I...I long for the visions of the outer worlds, stolen from my hosts..."
Upon recalling its dormant underlings, the massive beast's mind slowly shut down. Its head drooped, its entire body seeming to wilt and fall. Slowly, it sank into the mire of its lair, wrapping one tentacle protectively around the slab it had held only moments before.
* * *
The female Elite lay in her bed, her chest heaving. Her eyes filled with fondness as her soulmate caressed her hand. Nearby, an Elite dressed in white robes held an egg carefully, examining it from all sides, wiping the birth fluids off it.
"A fine passage," the robed Elite said, clicking its mandibles. "The egg is healthy. The child should live long."
The female Elite sighed happily, lazily closing one eye. Her soulmate stood up, eyeing the other occupant.
"You will take it to the Noble Prophets now?" he asked in a deep voice.
"Yes, 'Iskramee. It must be blessed, should it ever hope to be a Council Member," the robed Elite replied.
"A Council Member," snorted the female Elite when the robed Elite had left. "Is that what you had in mind for our child, 'Iskramee?"
"Yes, 'Lihamee. It is a position of great honor. What did you have in mind?" 'Iskramee asked.
"An Honor Guard," sighed 'Lihamee wistfully, not realizing she was fiddling with her blankets. "They protect the Prophets and fight, unlike the Council Members who sit in their chambers and talk."
"You know the Council Members fight. They are fine warriors."
"They rarely fight. It is not their main duty. Besides, I cannot imagine your child sitting around discussing politics."
"That may be true," 'Iskramee said, smiling mischivieously. "I shall leave you now. You need rest."
The male Elite slipped out of the red-carpeted room and watched his soulmate from the doorway. When he was sure she was asleep, he shut the door behind him, gave a fond sigh, and headed into an Observation Bay to watch the Elite bearing their child get in a dropship and depart for High Charity.
Birth of a Covenant Legend: Chapter 2
Date: 31 December 2004, 6:43 AM
{Author's Note: In this story, the word "Sangheili" will be used for both singular and plural circumstances.}
CHAPTER 2
High Charity hung in the cold void of space. Its floating guardians--a massive Covenant Fleet--hung lazily against the black. Clusters of Seraphs rushed to and from the Holy City. Right below was a gas giant, with stations hanging in its thick yellow-and-orange clouds.
A lone Phantom soared in towards High Charity. Upon seeing it, three Seraphs broke away and flew by its side, so close that it seemed the ships would scrape against each other.
"This is Sangheili Rejuvenator Ront 'Gehumee," the white-robed Sangheili said calmly. "I come bearing an egg that needs the High Prophets' blessings."
There was a pause, then, "Fine. I will escort you."
Two of the tear-drop shaped ships broke away, leaving the Phantom and lone Seraph to fly towards their destination. When they reached the hangar, they had to wait while the energy shields around the main doors faded.
Two mechanical arms extended from the ceiling and took hold of the Seraph. A small hatch in the bottom of the craft opened and a Sangheili Zealot dropped out. The Phantom landed nearby.
"Welcome, 'Muyfamee," chorused a squad of Unggoy. "Kill any bad, nasty Humans lately?"
"Back to work," demanded the Kig-Yar watching over them. "It's not your turn for the nipple yet, or idle chatter." Then its face turned apologetic and it said, "Terribly sorry to waste your time, Excellency... carry on."
'Gehumee dropped out of the Phantom, cradling the egg to his chest. "Thank you for your time, Mighty Zealot."
The golden-armored Sangheili clicked its mandibles twice in rabid succession. "I was getting tired of flying that craft anyway. Now, follow me."
The hallways the Sangheili had to pass through were long and lit by soft, white lights that were engraved into the floor. 'Gehumee noticed that the farther they went, the darker it got. His pupils dilated to bring in more light and enable better vision in the darkness.
They passed through a sliding door with a purple symbol carved into it. "This is the final hallway... then we will be in the waiting room. Stay to the right of the halls... don't want to bump into any Honor Guards," 'Muyfamee told the robed Sangheili.
Sure enough, a line of the ornately clad Sangheili exited another room and walked casually down the hall. Some of them had removed their helmets and were obviously enjoying the chance to stretch their muscles; it was a break from standing still for hours on end. One of them eyed the egg in 'Gehumee's hands with interest.
They stopped in front of a door that had a tiny console in front of it. 'Muyfamee pressed a few buttons on it quickly, then slammed his palm over the glowing purple top. The door began to open in sections, like a mouth being opened.
The waiting room had metallic purple walls with a blue tint to them. The only Covenant present besides the two Sangheili was a pair of Lekgolos, who seemed to be awaiting their Brotherhood Ceremony.
A Sangheili in green armor cocked his head towards them. "What is the reason of your meeting?"
"Ront 'Gehumee is a Rejuvenator. He comes bearing an egg that has been wished to be blessed," the Zealot told him.
"Who are the parents?" asked the green Sangheili, tapping a few holographic panels on the console in front of him.
"Juek 'Iskramee and Tyia 'Lihamee," replied 'Gehumee.
The green Sangheili tapped a few more panels before sliding his hand over the terminal. The holographs disappeared. "The High Prophet of Truth will see you now. Proceed inside. As for the Zealot... you may return to your duties now."
'Muyfamee nodded and turned. 'Gehumee headed to the huge doors that were the entrance to the Council Chambers, passing in front of the Lekgolos. Air hissed as it leaked from the corner of the doors, and they slid open slowly.
'Gehumee walked forward, ascending a small flight of stairs, casting glances at the Honor Guards that flanked the main walkway. The pedestal he was standing on began to glow purple. Light shown from over head, casting white over the Prophet of Truth.
"Welcome," Truth said, tapping his fingers together before setting them on the sides of his Gravity Throne.
"Noble Prophet of Truth," the robed Elite said reverently, bowing. With both hands he held the egg up and began reciting the traditional verse. "The parents who passed this egg have forever served you. They are loyal. They wish for your blessing, in hopes that their child may be forever loyal."
"They ask, and it shall receive my blessing," The Prophet of Truth said, moving forward. With careful hands he took the egg, passing one over its surface. "Faith will keep it strong. Faith will guide it. Its loyalty will lead it to greatness. It shall uphold the Covenant with my blessing."
The Prophet of Truth paused, giving 'Gehumee time to come in so they could recite the final verse together. "Our vow in faith will keep us safe, whilst we find the path," they chorused.
"It is done," the Prophet said. "You may return the egg to its parents now."
--- --- ---
The Prophet of Mercy watched the robed Sangheili leave. When the door had closed, he emerged from the darkness. "I felt something..." he said.
"Yes. A pure energy, growing inside the egg. It is unlike any life force I have ever encountered..." Truth replied. "We still have to conduct the Brotherhood Ceremony. I will allow your... I need time to rest."
--- --- ---
The creature in the filthy lair stirred once again, its mind awakened. Slowly, it rose up to its full height and opened its gaping maw, exposing the rotting skulls that served as its teeth. Its tendrils flailed as it raised the slab of stone and began reading the ancient writing off of it.
"Times of darkness,
Times of peril.
Through it all our savior born
We will follow, forever true
And continue on towards the glorious salvation.
The Prophet's Will
The Arbiter
One so great, he will rise above
The Prophet's Will
The Honor Guard
One so great, he will rise above
Undying loyalty to the one
Of midnight black and pure, untainted silver."
"Those fools... the religious leaders... they never look. They never even try. They claim to have unending wisdom... but what good is that when their vision is blocked? They think the coming of the Treasured Instrument... this 'Augur'... can only mean prosperity. But had they sought the final Mural, they would see the truth..." the creature said to itself.
The creature's tednrils stopped flailing, and dropped the slab as if it had forgotten it was once holding it. "The Augur will not begin an age of joy. He will begin an age... of torment."
Birth of a Covenant Legend: CHAPTER 3
Date: 26 January 2005, 4:54 AM
CHAPTER 3
'Iskramee knelt beside his soulmate's bed, waiting as she slowly awakened. When he saw the beautiful black eyes open, he began speaking.
"The Rejuvenator has returned. I told him to wait until you awakened from you rest. Shall I allow him in?" the Sangheili asked.
'Lihamee turned her head, propping herself up on one elbow. The thin white robes she was dressed in rustled slightly. "Yes. I have yet to hold what will soon be my own child."
'Iskramee smiled, walking up to a small terminal by the door. It had only three small buttons, which glowed green, red, and blue and were arranged in a triangle-like formation. The Sangheili pressed the blue key, and the runes on the door changed from red to a soft purple. 'Gehumee walked in, cradling the egg to his chest.
"How did you fare?" 'Lihamee asked the Rejuvenator.
"Fine, mistress," 'Gehumee replied. "The Prophet of Truth seemed pleased."
The female Sangheili smiled, taking the egg carefully from him, running her hands over its smooth surface. 'Iskramee turned to face 'Gehumee.
"Thank you for your services," he said. "I will spread good words about you."
"I should thank you. For each new egg, there is a new meaning for me to live," 'Gehumee replied, then clicked his mandibles. "You probably don't understand. Anyways, before I leave, you should know that the egg will hatch in seven turns... exactly one cycle. I will return to aid you each turn."
The two Sangheili clasped hands. Then the Rejuvenator left. 'Lihamee sighed. "A cycle seems like an unbearable wait. How I have dreamt of my own child..."
"As have I," 'Iskramee grinned, kneeling next to her. "Fear not. The turns will pass quickly."
'Iskramee retired, falling heavily into one of the chairs by a small steel table, which sat next to his soulmate's bed. His eyelids drooped, but he would not allow himself to sleep until 'Lihamee herself had passed into slumber.
It didn't take long. Both Sangheili, exhausted by the stress and anxiety of the days, nodded off with ease.
* * *
The turns passed quickly, as twin suns rose above the horizon and set again. Most of the soulmates' days contained a seemingly endless amount of waiting; when 'Gehumee did visit, it was only brief. He had many other Covenant to tend to, and often came in looking out of breath or tired.
During the last turns of the cycle, changes in the egg became apparent. Its shell darkened and dried, becoming gray and rough. It was so fragile that it could not be moved anymore; and on the last day, the shell had darkened to pitch black and a gleaming coat of slime had fallen over it, apparently to protect the creature within.
"The coloration is abnormal," the Rejuvenator told them. "Never have I seen an egg darken so drastically. Still, it is probably nothing to worry about; the layer of gel will dry become something akin to webbing when the egg hatches."
"You're sure?" 'Lihamee asked.
"Yes. I didn't get assigned to this by making wild predictions or educated guesses. No, this egg is quite healthy."
Relieved, the female Sangheili fell back onto her bed. She had become incredibly restless after overcoming the weakness that followed a birthing, but was not allowed to get up yet. She needed her rest, or so they insisted.
"I have been assigned to stay with you until the newborn is out of the shell," 'Gehumee informed them. "It is to... make sure the hatching goes alright."
'Lihamee cocked her head, catching the hesitation in his voice. Rejuvenators were not usually called to oversee a hatching; the newborn practically all of it itself. If they were, there wouldn't be any left over to tend the sick or wounded. No, soulmates were usually left alone on the hatching turn.
Still, she dismissed it. If a Rejuvenator was near, it would ensure the health and safety of her child's first turn. She had no problems with that, and had taken a liking to having 'Gehumee around. He wasn't like other Rejuvenators, who grumbled about watching eggs all turn and always having to rush off in the middle. He seemed to enjoy each task, even if he sometimes had a hard time keeping up with them.
Smiling to herself at the thought, the female Sangheili settled back into her sheets, closing her eyes. She wanted to be rested and not seem dreary-eyed the time her child's eyes opened. It didn't take long before she fell asleep, leaving the two males in the room to discuss other things.
Birth of a Covenant Legend: CHAPTER 4
Date: 29 January 2005, 5:09 PM
CHAPTER 4
'Lihamee stirred quietly, her eyes opening to thin slits. Soft morning light filtered in through the window and glanced off the golden armor of 'Iskramee, splaying across her bed. Her mandibles opened, stretching as far as they could, the Sangheili equivalent of a yawn.
She felt energetic, and cast a look out the window. The fattest of the twin suns was just barely poking up above a far-off mountain range. That meant that it was early, very early, and she had some time before her soulmate and the Rejuvenator awakened.
Standing up, 'Lihamee clutched her robes and gave her legs an experimental stretch. They didn't ache or protest, and she smiled at the thought of some much needed exercise. She opened the door and slid out.
The interior of the building was intricate; there were many floors, each with long hallways. The walls were pale purple in color with smooth gray floors. Enclosed gravity lifts connected each floor. Each door was fairly large and consisted of a sliding metal part that opened by parting with the wall and closed by meeting it. Thankfully they made no sound as they opened or closed, otherwise she never would have made it beyond her room.
'Lihamee didn't intend to go very far; she just wanted to stretch her legs. She swiped her hand over the panel in front of the lift doors, which slid open in response. Once she was inside, she pressed her claw into a holopanel and swiped it downwards. Five holographic blocks sprang up, following her hand.
The lift clanked once before starting its rapid decent. In a matter of minutes, she was at ground floor. Exiting the lift, she made her way across the luxurious lobby and went outside. She shivered exultantly as the blast of cool morning air hit her.
A sparkling metal platform jutted out from the front of the building; below that was a valley of dark green grass and tall, leathery-skinned trees. She squinted, and could make out the shoreline where the grass faded into sand. Waves lapped peacefully against the pale grains.
Then she turned to face the building and backed up until she could see the peaks of the mountains behind it. The largest of the twin suns was now half-risen, casting its glorious light across the landscape.
'Lihamee gauged her time left; she had at least an hour before both suns were fully in the sky. 'Iskramee awoke some time before that, so she planned to head up in forty minutes.
She took off, her feet slamming against the metal, and as she leaped off the platform and landed in the soft grass, she felt happier than she had in a long time. She stretched her claws, scratching at the tough bark on one of the trees, to make sure they hadn't lost their edge. Then she headed out into the ocean, hanging her robes on a tree branch beside her so she wouldn't get them wet. 'Lihamee loved the feeling of the cool water splashing against her.
Still, she left on time, sighing. She rolled in the grass to dry off before getting back into her robes and entering the building. The lift brought her back up to her floor, and she quietly entered her room, slipping under the covers and shutting her eyes.
* * *
'Iskramee stirred and was surprised to see that the Rejuvenator was already wake; he sat in a chair to the left of 'Lihamee's bed, his eyes scanning over a text recording.
'Lihamee herself was still asleep, and he took that for a good thing. Suddenly, as if hearing his footsteps was enough, she woke up and yawned.
"Good rising to both of you," 'Gehumee said in a pleasant voice.
"Good rising," they both responded.
"This turn, the egg should hatch. I have know way of knowing exactly what time, though, but don't worry," the Rejuvenator told them.
As it turned out, it was quite a while before the egg hatched. 'Lihamee found that she might have dozed off once or twice, and her soulmate was staring absently at his armor, as if there was a stray speck of filth on it. As far as she knew, 'Gehumee had stayed in the same place, looking over the text recording.
"What are you reading?" she asked.
'Gehumee looked at her as if surprised before answering, "It's a recording of the Taming of the Hunters. It follows the first ages, a very bloody time..."
He was cut off in mid-sentence by a sudden scratching sound. All three occupants swung their heads to the egg, which was shaking. A sudden knock against its inside caused it to roll over, teetering precariously on the edge... then fell.
'Gehumee was up in an instant, leaping forward. He slid on one knee, catching the precious egg at the last second. Unfortunately he was not balanced; his leg slid out from beneath him, and he fell, falling on his right hip and banging his head on the leg of 'Lihamee's bed. Still his grip on the egg remained, and he stood up shakily.
As he rose, a tiny head burst out of the shell. Shards of shell, stuck together by the thick webbing, fell to the floor. The baby cried frustratedly as it tried to tear off he webbing that was plastered to its face.
The Rejuvenator gasped, his mandibles snapping open. The baby's scales were not the typical pale green or dark green of an Sangheili; no, they were pitch black, gleaming in the morning light. Silver markings branched off from each eye and ran down the body in a flowing pattern. It was if liquid silver was contained in them; the markings were not solid silver, but contained something that was flowing within them.
"Energy, maybe," the Rejuvenator whispered to himself.
The baby growled again, swiveling its head. Its eyes had not opened, but they would soon. Then the hatchling began clawing at the inside of the shell; it broke through in a matter of seconds, nearly falling out of 'Gehumee's grasp. The Rejuvenator caught the baby Sangheili before it could fall and handed it to 'Lihamee.
'Gehumee forced his voice to remain normal, despite the excitement that was surging through him. "He is a fine, healthy young male..."
The baby interrupted by shrieking again, swinging his head, trying to discover the other creatures in this room. Slowly, the hatchling opened its eyes, and another difference was apparent: the hatchling did not have the common black eyes, or the rare green or orange eyes. No, he had icy blue eyes that seemed to drown out everything.
Now that it could see, the baby Sangheili immediately recognized his mother, and crawled over to her. It was a comical sight, as the feet looked too big for its tiny body.
"With the noble Prophet of Truth's blessing, he should become one of the finest warriors in the Covenant. In any case, he will grow fast. In a succession, he should be quite independent. Speech will be picked up in a matter of cycles. He will be ready for his first duties in six successions. It would do him well if you would offer him training and guidance before then," 'Gehumee paused, then continued, "I am afraid I must leave. I have many other duties to attend to."
'Iskramee got up, and clasped hands with the Rejuvenator. "You have been a great help. All the joy we feel now would not have been possible without you. Thank you, and may the Prophets be with you."
With that, the Rejuvenator left. 'Isrkamee turned to his soulmate, who was letting their newborn "chew" on her finger. It didn't hurt; the baby wasn't born with teeth.
"He must be hungry," he said. "I'll go get us all some provisions."
The baby looked up from its mother's finger to grunt, as if in response.
Birth of a Covenant Legend: CHAPTER 5
Date: 9 February 2005, 12:18 AM
CHAPTER 5
The baby Sangheili looked up from his meal, which consisted of a thin strip of dried meat. Its eyes glimmered, plainly conveying the pleasure he was sensing. Since he had no teeth, he had to tear off bits with his hands that were small enough for him to swallow whole. 'Iskramee watched in amusement as he tore off a piece of meat bigger than his mouth and tried to swallow it.
'Lihamee intercepted. "Slow down, young one. You don't want to choke."
The infant looked up at her questioningly, and then grunted as he realized his meal was being taken. He tugged on the meat, but was easily overpowered by his mother. He growled shrilly in rebuke and only quieted when she handed him back the piece, neatly broken up into pieces that he could manage.
"Shouldn't we get him some clothes?" the anxious mother asked.
"Now it's your turn to slow down," 'Iskramee laughed. "First things first. Once we're done eating we can see about clothing him."
The baby Sangheili had a voracious appetite, and easily finished with the first piece. It began to slow on its second, and could manage only a couple of bites on the third. It was only then that he finally relaxed.
"Now then," 'Lihamee said, "You stay and entertain him, while I fetch him some garments."
"But..."
"Don't say anything," she told him. "I'm tired of being penned up in bed. As soon as he's dressed properly, we're all going outside for a walk in the meadows."
She left, and the infant looked around for her, obviously confused. Then he saw his father, who picked him up and resumed his seat near the window. The sunlight glimmered on the baby's pitch black scales, and the glow of his silver markings seemed even more radiant. He enjoyed the caress of his father.
"What are you to be, young one?" 'Iskramee asked quietly, as his son located one of his fingers and began chewing on it. "Surely you will be shunned in your early years. Your scales... as black as a void, or a moonless night. And your markings..."
He paused, swiveling his head to look out the window. But he dismissed his unease and turned his attention to his son once again. "Am I ever going to get that hand back?" he asked teasingly. "Think you can keep it forever?"
At that moment, 'Lihamee returned, a small bundle tucked underneath her arm. Her child dropped the finger he was chewing on and stared curiously. It took awhile to get the fussing Sangheili into his new clothes, and when they were through he wore an expression on his face of utmost indignity.
The clothes he was in consisted of a brown flank that covered his chest like a shirt and ended near his thighs. A white sash streaked diagonally across that and connected to a white belt. His hands, from the wrist up, were wrapped in cloth, with the exception of his fingers, which protruded out. His ankles were also wrapped in the same cloth.
The baby Sangheili gave a shrill growl, conveying his displeasure. 'Lihamee laughed. "Don't fret, my child. You'll get used to them. Shall we head off now?"
'Iskramee nodded. They walked slowly, so their child could keep up. They entered the lift, and as it lurched beneath their feet the baby hissed at the unknown sensation. However, once they were outside he was a completely different Sangheili; his eyes shone happily as he was assailed with new scents and sights and he let out a contented sigh.
He followed his parents across the landing pad and down a grassy hill. The feeling of soft grass against his feet was something new. But he got over his fear quickly and tried to dash ahead, only succeeding in tangling up his limbs. With a yell of dismay, the infant rolled into the grass.
'Lihamee laughed and picked him up, setting him on his feet. Then the walk continued, and they passed under trees, giving their son time enough to bat at falling leaves. They stopped at the shoreline, and the baby gazed uncertainly at the lapping waves.
Suddenly, a large wave loomed up and crashed against the shore. Water sprayed on the Sangheili child, and he screamed in fright, running behind 'Iskramee. From the safety of his father, he hissed at the retreating waves.
His father's laugh was cut off suddenly. Both parents turned to face an approaching Elite, clad in the same Zealot armor that 'Iskramee was. He glanced down at their child but said nothing, and his mandibles parted as he prepared to talk.
"I am Rew 'Senamee," the Zealot began. "I have important news for 'Iskramee."
"I am here," growled 'Iskramee in response. "What is it?"
'Senamee paused again. "The battle for planet Herret, in the Eridanus system of the Humans, has taken a drastic turn. We require your help on the battlefield immediately."
"I have a child!" 'Iskramee told him. "I cannot leave him. You know the words of the Covenant promise six successions to parents so they can teach their young ones..."
'Senamee shook his head. "I'm sorry, 'Iskramee. The Prophet of Truth has ordered me to do it. We cannot risk losing the planet of Artifacts."
'Iskramee lowered his head, his fists clenched.
"As... compensation," 'Senamee stuttered, "The Noble Prophet of Truth has granted you the permission to name your child here and now, instead of forcing him to earn it on the battlefield. And this name shall never be repeated."
'Iskramee wondered about the last statement, but dismissed it. "I also deserve some parting words."
"It is a bargain, then. Name your child, say your words. I will not rush this parting gift."
'Iskramee looked at his soulmate, his heart full of longing. He wanted to stay with her, with his child... but he knew he could not. He was bound to his duty, and began thinking of a proper name for his son. "Riao," he said. "Riao 'Zextramee."
'Senamee nodded.
Then 'Iskramee knelt near his son, taking his tiny hands. "Son, I have faith that you will understand these words when you mature. There is a fine line between caution and fear, between boldness and headstrong. You must never cross those lines. I know that you will make me proud... I have every bit of faith in you. Let honor guide you."
He embraced Riao, who snorted questioningly. Then he did the same to 'Lihamee, fighting down the pit in his stomach, the tears in his eyes. But when he turned to leave them, his head was held high, his eyes shining with pride. He and 'Senamee headed to the main hangar.
'Lihamee knelt down and cradled Riao to her chest. She sat there with him, watching, waiting. It seemed like an eternity until a single Phantom rose into the sky, its engines humming, and flew off into space.
They never saw 'Iskramee again.
Birth of a Covenant Legend: CHAPTER 6
Date: 21 February 2005, 4:27 PM
CHAPTER 6
Six successions had passed since that day. The baby grew quickly, learning from its mother. He listened intently to her tales of the battlefield, even if he didn't truly understand them. By the age of six successions, 'Zextramee was still quite small, only knee-high to his mother, and not very muscular, but his mind was sharp. By now he could fully understand the tales and the wise advice passed down to him by his mother.
Now he stood by 'Lihamee, who was gazing skyward. She held the same expression that she did at the nights she thought he was asleep, and was left to her thoughts. She was careful never to show it in front of him. The expression was once puzzling to 'Zextramee; now he knew it was an expression of pain, or sorrow.
"What is it, mother?" he asked.
She looked down at him, unable to explain. "Well... you're going away, son."
He nodded, but didn't quite understand. "I know."
"You won't be coming back. The thought of not seeing my only son again..."
"Mother, I will come back. You'll see," 'Zextramee insisted.
"It's not your decision," his mother sighed. "The Noble Prophets choose who goes where; and all my life I've never seen a son return to his birthing place. It is considered a waste of time to them."
The child cocked his head. He had never heard the Prophets talked about like this.
"Most of us are just troops to them," she almost spat, "Their property. Only a few, besides the Council members and Honor Guards, get to be valued. But it is not for who they are; it is for their fighting skills."
This news quieted 'Zextramee. Suddenly, he spotted a shape on the horizon, growing quickly. As it approached, the unmistakable purple sheen and blue engine exhaust revealed that the shape was a Phantom. The three guns attached to the bottom were not in use; they hung there almost limply without swerving, scanning for prey.
'Lihamee knelt down and embraced her son, a single tear falling out of her eye. "Farewell, my child..."
She released him as the Phantom stopped right in front of them. 'Zextramee glanced at her uncertainly, but at her nod walked forward. He stopped and looked up; he was right underneath the lift. Soon he would be inside.
"Farewell, mother!" he called. Then, as an afterthought, he added, "I promise I will come back!"
Any other words were cut off as he was sucked inside; the feeling of weightlessness was strange and unsettling, if brief. Glancing around, he saw that he was indeed inside the dropship. The walls were covered in bulges and were dark purple in color; on the floor were glowing, pale blue glyphs. Standing on the troop compartment rings were five other children and one adult Sangheili clad in gold armor.
The children all looked nervous. 'Zextramee took his place in the empty troop compartment ring which was, coincidentally, right next to the Zealot. He glanced up in awe, and then was shocked to discover that he was not afraid. He took this to heart and raised his head a little.
Suddenly, a question sprang into his mind. He was uncertain how to address such a high-ranking Sangheili, so he tried the first thing that sprang into his mind. "Uh... excuse me, Excellency..."
The Zealot turned his head to peer down at the miniscule Sangheili but said nothing. The gaze intimidated him.
"I was just wondering... where we are h-heading..." 'Zextramee was surprised to hear a stammer in his voice.
"To the planet Xenris to begin your training," the Zealot replied, in an almost shockingly deep voice.
Letting out his breath, 'Zextramee glanced at the other children. They were trying to avoid each other's gazes. Most of them looked tired; 'Zextramee himself wasn't, but he had no idea how long they had been standing inside the Phantom.
He was surprised to find his thoughts going back to his mother, and suddenly he felt very lonely. He missed her. He wanted to see her again...
"Approaching refit-battle station Holy Will," the pilot said over the intercom. "Prepare for docking. Trainees, stay with 'Pekrumee. He will help you get situated and, once we reach Xenris, begin your training."
'Zextramee nearly jumped as a glowing ring opened up; once the glow subsided her could see the floor of a Covenant ship. It was a pale blue color. He couldn't see much else beyond that.
The Zealot calmly walked over to the ring and dropped through. He landed neatly on his feet and looked up at them. 'Zextramee knew what he wanted them to do. Carefully, he approached the ring and jumped; the fall wasn't as long as he thought it would be and he, too, managed to land on his feet. He was infinitely relieved to see the Zealot pass him and approving glance.
[inmdent]The other Sangheili trainees followed; most managed to make it to the ground without falling. A few had to pick themselves up off the cold, sleek floor, showing every inch of their hurt pride.
"Listen, children," the Zealot called, "When not in your quarters you will stand by me at all times. If something happens and you get separated, a nearby Sangheili will direct you to me. If you wander off, you will be punished. Once we reach the living quarters, I will give you further instructions."
They set off. 'Zextramee managed to get a good look at the room they were in before he left; there were uplink stations stacked against an upper platform, where many Covenant personnel were manning the shields covering the open doors and the connections holding the many ships in place.
Their walk was a long one, through winding halls with white floors and lavender walls. The doors they passed through were all alike; they consisted of two sliding panels with a dark purple symbol painted onto them. He was wondering how far they were to go when the doors in front of them open and they were exposed to what looked exactly like their birthing place.
The ground was covered with lush grass, there was a shallow body of water stretching out at the end of the area, and tress of all sorts were scattered throughout the room. There was a sky above them. Even the air smelled as it did at home.
"This is one of the environment simulation rooms. It is built to remind you of your home planet, to make you more at home. Every shrub, tree, and blades of grass are real. It is small in comparison to the others in this station, but it is yours. Find a proper living space and mark it with these flags," 'Pekrumee told them. "I will be back in 120 units; approximately two timeframes."
'Zextramee observed his flag. It was black, but seemed to be a lighter hue than his scales. A single light-emitter sat on the top. He turned around and bumped straight into another trainee.
"Ow! Watch it, or I'll call Overseer on you," the child growled.
"I'm sorry," 'Zextranee said. "My name's 'Zextramee. What's yours?"
"I don't have a name yet," replied the Sangheili. "What's wrong with your scales? They're black."
"I was born this way," 'Zextramee said proudly. "I even have silver markings."
The other trainee looked him over. "Hey yeah, you do. That's weird."
"Weird?"
"Yeah. Why don't you just go away?" the trainee said, backing away. "I shouldn't even be talking. I should be finding a living space."
With that the trainee left 'Zextramee. The black-scaled Sangheili lowered his head sadly. Then he looked at his flag, and was reminded of the task at hand. He scurried off to find his own living space.
Birth of a Covenant Legend: CHAPTER 7
Date: 13 March 2005, 12:03 AM
CHAPTER 7
'Zextramee smiled proudly at his living space. It was small, but suitable; the center of it consisted of a cave nestled amongst some thick-barked trees, which grew near a small river. Still, when he looked at the cave's entrance, it seemed too vacant; if the seasons changed here like they did at home, it would get chilly without something blocking the entrance.
He looked at his surroundings for anything that might aid him in this matter. Suddenly and idea sprang to his head. He wandered off, in search of a certain tree. It was very tall and skinny, with soft bark that could be peeled off easily. Once he located one, he proceeded to take of long straps of the bark.
He wandered from tree to tree, collecting the bark. When he had what seemed to be enough, 'Zextramee used the sap from one of the peeled sides of the tree to stick them together. He walked back to his living space with the now large slab of bark. When he arrived, he proceeded to drape it over the mouth of the cave and used an assortment of large rocks to hold it in place. Then, just to be sure, he entered the cave once.
He smiled to himself as the bark "door" did not fall off. Inside, the cave was warm and smelled musty. The ground was littered with dead leaves and branches; he decided to clean that out while he waited. When he was done with that task, he went out to the stream to wash his hands.
'Zextramee found himself humming one of his mother's tunes as he playfully splashed his hands in the water, and was assailed by fresh loneliness. He paused, looking around him, and was shocked to realize something: no matter how much this place looked like home, it would never truly be so without his mother.
"But I... will make the best of it," he told himself. "I will make mother proud. I will go far, and come back."
Just then, he heard footsteps behind him. He turned, and saw 'Pekrumee approaching. The Zealot stopped, as if in shock, when 'Zextramee turned to face him.
"This, I take it, is your living space?" 'Pekrumee asked, sweeping a hand behind him to encompass the cave and the small banner waving on top of it.
"Yes!" 'Zextramee said, smiling proudly.
The Zealot inspected the swinging bark draped over the front. "You are very resourceful. Follow me, and I will gather up the rest of the Trainees."
The living spaces that the others had chosen reflected the different regions of their birthing place that they had been brought up in. Some had chosen to live in areas that were rocky and very scarce of trees. Others preferred the lush forest areas that 'Zextramee did, while others still preferred empty grasslands with mere rock structures as their homes.
'Pekrumee did a quick head count. 'Zextramee counted his finger motions; there were six trainees, arranged in two rows of three.
"Good. All of you are here. Now," the Zealot began, "It is time for your nourishment. On the way to the Gathering Chambers, I will transfer you over to 'Yelamee. He is in charge of your daily care, and I am in charge of your training. Treat him with the proper respect, and keep in mind that the same rules of conduct are applied when you are under his care."
'Zextramee wondered hungrily what they were going to be offered. He hadn't realized until now how famished he was. He clicked his mandibles, surprised and pleased at the rather mature sound. Suddenly they halted, and he saw an orange-armored Sangheili approaching.
Both officers ducked their heads, performing the traditional greeting. Then, without a single word to one another, 'Pekrumee left them and 'Yelamee started leading them through the long, winding halls again.
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, they entered the Gathering Chambers. The room was massive, the walls painted a soft blue. Graceful purple columns rose from the floor to the ceiling, and lights along the sides of the columns lit up the otherwise-dark room.
"Sit," 'Yelamee instructed.
The trainees all dropped, eagerly awaiting their meal.
"I am going to tell the ones in charge that we have arrived. Do...not...move. When I return, you will bed fed. Until then, exercise patience," the orange-armored Sangheili told them.
'Zextramee entertained himself by watching the other Covenant eat. Their diets were so... different. The Kig-Yar were treating themselves to what looked like plants and some sort of meat, while the Unggoy were hastily sucking some thick paste out of long tubes. All of the races sat apart from each other. He tried to find the Lekgolo, or other Sangheili, but at that moment his attention was diverted.
'Yelamee approached, a minor Sangheili pushing a loaded cart following behind him. 'Zextramee eagerly inhaled the delicious scents, trying to keep his mouth from watering. Then the two adult Sangheili began handing out small trays to the trainees.
One each tray was the same thing: three long strips of meat, dripping juice, a plant sac dipped in sweet golden fluids, and a puff-roll. 'Zextramee bit into the first piece of meat, the taste exploding in his mouth. Then he was handed a cup of water, which he drank slowly.
"Be thankful for this considerable bounty," 'Yelamee told them all. "Once training begins you won't be fed so readily. This is just to get your strength up for the coming exercise."
Next, 'Zextramee lifted the sac. Because of its soft, white skin he could easily grasp it in his mandibles and work little bits downs his throat easily. Once he was finished he worked his mandibles over themselves, cleaning every last bit of the golden fluids of them. The taste was sensational.
Finally he popped the minsicule piece of bread into his mouth, grinded it with his teeth, and swallowed. Then he looked around, and saw that other trainees were just finishing up as well. 'Yelamee was watching them, as if searching for something. 'Zextramee averted his eyes as the orange-armored Sangheili faced him.
"Stand," 'Yelamee said, once they were all finished. "I'm going to escort you back to environment simulation chambers now, where you will relocate your living spaces and settle down for the night. Early next morning, 'Pekrumee will wake you to begin your training."
Now that his hunger had abated, 'Zextramee focused more on his surroundings. He hoped to be able to tell the exact hallways he would take to get from the living spaces to the Gathering Chambers. Unfortunately, all the halls were similar: they were very tall, if not wide, and had curved walls. The floor was gray in coloration, and the walls were a dark purple. Even the small patterns carved into them were identical.
However, the door that marked the entrance to the environment simulation chambers were not identical to the others. They were massive, and had no purple markings on them. Also, it seemed there was a sort of shielding around them; 'Zextramee saw them shimmer when 'Yelamee approached them.
The door hissed slightly before opening. The other Sangheili trainees stepped into the environment simulation chambers, looking around. Some of them wandered off with purposeful looks on their faces, while other looked around hesitantly.
Zextramee stepped into the soft grass. This must be some sort of test... he thought, when he noticed that 'Yelamee did not leave immediately and instead began watching them. I have to find my way back quickly.
He swung his head to both sides quickly, scanning the area. Then he grinned slightly, setting off towards a clump of trees. Once he entered the treeline, he listened intently. The sound of trickling water reached him, and he walked towards it. Once He found the stream, he followed it until he could see the glowing tip of his banner.
He walked up to his cave and smiled triumphantly. Just then he heard footsteps behind him and turned. 'Yelamee approached, wearing a thoughtful expression on his face.
Why did he follow me? 'Zextramee wondered. Why not some of the others that left earlier?
The orange-clad Sangheili stood there, as if judging him. 'Zextramee wondered what he should do when he remembered 'Pekrumee and 'Yelamee's greeting in the halls, on the way to the Gathering Chambers. Slowly, he ducked his head, trying to watch 'Yelamee at the same time. The Sangheili grunted softly, as if surprised, then turned away.
'Zextramee slipped into his cave and scuffed the dirt a little with his foot. Then he laid down and curled up, remembering the events of the past day. Then, slowly, he drifted off into sleep.
Birth of a Covenant Legend: CHAPTER 8
Date: 5 April 2005, 1:35 AM
CHAPTER 8
The loud roar of 'Pekrumee echoed through the air, rousing the trainees. 'Zextramee groaned, wondering if it was really as early as it felt. His eyelids were heavy, his body sluggish. The black-scaled Sangheili yawned hugely, his mandibles stretching, rolling onto his side.
Sunlight filtered in though the sides of the bark door. It wasn't bright, blazing afternoon light, but a soft light that always hung about in the early morning. That was all it took to convince 'Zextramee that it was very early indeed.
Yawning again, he slipped outside. The cool morning air was refreshing, and he inhaled gratefully. It cleared his senses. As he turned he saw 'Pekrumee approaching, the early morning light giving his golden armor an almost otherworldly shimmer.
'Zextramee ducked his head, somewhat clumsily.
"You are ready," 'Pekrumee said, more of a statement than a question. "Walk with me as I gather up the others."
'Zextramee followed obediently behind him. However, 'Pekrumee's strides were long, and he had to walk very quickly to keep up. Therefore he had little breath for talking, but that seemed to be the last thing on the Zealot's mind.
He concentrated on other things, and was lost in his thoughts quickly until 'Pekrumee let out a surprised snort. 'Zextramee looked up, wanting to ask what was wrong, but the Zealot answered before he could even ask.
"Trainee 01 is missing," he said, his mandibles pressing tightly against each other.
'Zextramee had seen that expression on the face of his mother's often; it signified concern. Once again he found his heart aching for her. How badly he wanted to return...
"We will be entering Xenris' atmosphere in a matter of timeframes!" the Zealot continued to snarl. "We cannot leave the Holy Will until all of us are together. You must stay here, while I go search for him."
"Excuse me, Excellency," 'Zextramee was surprised to hear the words come out of his mouth. If there was one thing he had been told not to do, it was speak out of place.
'Pekrumee was obviously irritated at the delay. "Yes?"
'Zextramee wanted to back down, but was suddenly assaulted by a wave of shame for his cowardice. Whether it was justified or not, he did not care. "I could help you search for him..."
"No," 'Pekrumee said automatically, but then he cocked his head as if considering something. "Actually...perhaps this could be for the best. Early training. Yes, you are allowed to come. As for the rest of you, exercise discipline and remain here."
The black-scaled Sangheili grinned, running up to 'Pekrumee and ducking his head vigorously. The Zealot snorted but did not seem displeased at the show of flattery.
"We will be heading back to Trainee 01's living space. Perhaps we can unearth some clues as to where he went," 'Pekrumee told him.
Once again, 'Zextramee found himself struggling to keep up, especially since the Zealot was hurried. He was basically scrambling madly, trying to seem fast yet not ungainly at the same time.
Trainee 01's living space was a cave nestled into a rock slide. It was surprisingly bare; 'Zextramee wondered how he could enjoy living there. Even the dirt and grass had faded to a bed of pebbles. He shook himself out of his thoughts and watched as 'Pekrumee scaled one of the boulders, using it as a vantage point.
'Zextramee knew he couldn't accomplish that, so instead he crawled into the cave. The inside was well lit, since there was no covering over the mouth of the cave. He could see scuff marks in the gravel, but nothing else.
"He's not in here," 'Zextramee informed 'Pekrumee when he left.
The zealot looked ready to lash out in frustration. "We will have to search through this entire area. I'll allow you to assist, but do not get lost. Call me if you find anything."
The black-scaled Sangheili wanted to give out a yell of joy. Now he could prove himself! 'Zextramee squeezed between two boulders and was out of 'Pekrumee's sight. The Zealot sighed, once again climbing the boulders.
There was little room "inside" the rockslide, but 'Zextramee managed to wiggle through most of the gaps. It was dark and hard to breath, but he kept going. Just when he thought he was going to suffocate, a tiny voice cried out.
"Help," the missing Trainee coughed, its hand sticking through a tiny space between two boulders.
'Zextramee rushed up to the trapped Sangheili, then remembered what his instructor had said. "'Pekrumee! I found him!"
"Where are you?" the Zealot called back. His voice sounded surprisingly far away.
"Uh," for a second panic raced through 'Zextramee's mind. What if he can't find me? Then an idea raced through his head.
He hefted a rock of considerable size and threw it upwards. It clacked against another boulder above them and fell to the ground. He picked it up again, this time aiming for a small opening. He threw it and smiled in satisfaction as it slipped through the hole.
Minutes later, 'Pekrumee's face was looking at them through the same hole. "Good idea," the Zealot grudgingly said. "But I can't fit through any of these gaps. You'll have to get Trainee 01 out."
'Zextramee nodded. He approached the large boulder that he knew the infant was strapped behind. He looked over all the sides of it, but could not find a space large enough to fit through. Above him, he heard the Zealot shift impatiently.
The black-scaled Sangheili suppressed a wave of frustration. "How did you get stuck?" he called loudly, hoping the Trainee would be able to answer.
The reply was weak. "A rock fell when I was climbing around and hit me in my back. It knocked me down here, then blocked off the entrance."
'Zextramee was horrified to notice a splotch of purple-blue blood on one of the rocks. But now he knew which stone he had to move and threw his weight against it. He took a step forward, pressing against it with his entire body. A tiny grunt escaped his mouth. The rock lurched suddenly, a tiny bit, but this was all it took. The Trainee saw the widened gap and managed to squeeze through.
As the weakened Sangheili stumbled out of its trap, 'Zextramee saw that the scales on its lower back were scraped off, and the wound was bleeding. That was the explanation for the blood on the rock.
"He's free," 'Zextramee called triumphantly.
"Excellent work," 'Pekrumee called. "Can you find your way out of the rockslide?"
The black-scaled Sangheili faltered, but was not about to let his moment of triumph be shattered by navigational problems. "Yes," he replied.
The other Trainee looked at him uncertainly, then hurried after 'Zextramee. The lack of air inside the rockslide was taking its toll; they were breathing heavily and stumbled often. The black-scaled Sangheili gasped loudly, but the air that filled his lungs was dank and filthy. He coughed.
"Do you know where to go?" Trainee 01 asked skeptically.
"Of course," 'Zextramee snapped irritably, pausing to look around.
He had never seen this area before. The rockslide appeared to be getting smaller; the boulders overhead were closer to the ground, but just as tightly packed. They were still unable to breathe good air. 'Zextramee dropped to his stomach and started crawling forward, just barely fitting underneath the boulders.
The next gap he came across was so tiny he could barely fit his hand through it. He couldn't move any rocks, either; they were all too large for him. He heard the Trainee behind him cough violently. He felt choked, too.
Suddenly, light and sweet, fresh air blasted inward. 'Zextramee and the Trainee hissed shrilly and covered their eyes. When they opened them, they saw that the rocks in front of them had been knocked away. There stood 'Pekrumee, looking at them.
"Excellent job, Trainee 00," the Zealot said. "Let us return to the others now. We are long overdue."
Birth of a Covenant Legend: CHAPTER 9
Date: 16 April 2005, 3:39 PM
CHAPTER 9
Xenris loomed up in 'Zextramee's view, seeming to fill the entire exit of the docking bay. The large, rectangular gap in the wall was covered by a plasma shield; the edges glowed a soft blue. He could see the individual tendrils of white energy snaking through the shield.
The planet itself was quite small. The surface was a mosaic of greens and blues of all different shades. He wondered what it would be like to actually set foot on the ground.
'Pekrumee watched him, thinking. He was interrupted in his thoughts when 'Yelamee approached.
"The High Prophets want to know if you have filed the report on Trainee 00 yet," the orange-clad Sangheili said briskly.
"I am in the process of it," 'Pekrumee replied. "He has already shown superior skills of navigation and is already quite independent. He must be the blessed one..."
"It is far too early to assume that he might be the..." 'Yelamee paused to lower his voice, "...the Augur."
"I know," the Zealot replied, sounding weary. "Yet I cannot turn a blind eye to his abilities."
"No one has asked you to," 'Yelamee snorted. "I am simply saying that it is a bit much to rest all of one's hopes on an infant. I am going to make sure those Kig-yar are not resting. We need this ship to be ready in a timeframe."
With that he left. 'Pekrumee turned his attention to the trainees. They seemed to be losing patience; some of them were even trying to wander off. Yet he noticed that Trainee 00 hadn't moved; he was simply sitting there, his gaze fixed on Xenris.
The Zealot walked up behind him, crouching. "That will be your home for many successions," he said.
"I had a feeling," 'Zextramee said softly. "What will the training be like, Excellency?"
"Hard," 'Pekrumee said, surprised at his lack of words. When he was by this infant, he felt something stirring in his soul, something he could not describe. "Very... hard and long."
"Successions are always long," the black-scaled infant said. "What will it really be like?"
"It differs for each Trainee," 'Pekrumee told him honestly. "Some do not survive it; they crumple under the expectations and the tasks. Others barely pass, and come out extremely weak, never living to see a promotion to Zealot. Yet the ones who do rise to the challenge and succeed... well, they are an incredible force by themselves, with strength and vigor. Yet battle training is not the only thing you will receive; you will also have to take classes and study to pass. Without one, the other fails..."
"I will pass," 'Zextramee replied. "I cannot afford to fail. If I do I will never see mother again..."
"I believe you will, too," the Zealot said. "You already possess surprising intellect..." but he trailed off, not wanting to make the Trainee overconfident.
He stood and left 'Zextramee to oversee the readying of their ship. After a while, though, he turned his gaze to the Trainee again. He was still watching... still waiting.
The rest of the time passed quickly. Under the supervision of both 'Yelamee and 'Pekrumee, the Kig-yar worked quickly. Hunagok also scuttled by, their long tentacles running over the ship, searching for any failures. If a problem was discovered, the one who discovered it would twine its tendrils around and through the machinery, dissembling it, fixing it, and reassembling it in a matter of seconds.
"Trainees," 'Pekrumee called out, "It is time."
The Trainees eagerly ran up to him. The Zealot did a quick headcount before nodding to 'Yelamee. The orange-clad Sangheili led them up into the ship, while 'Pekrumee headed into the ship control.
'Zextramee stared in aw at the massive size of the interior of the ship. The walls curved slightly inward and were hued a deep purple; the floor itself was slightly slippery and was a pale violet. Lights were placed where the walls met the ceiling. The whole ship had an organic feel to it.
'Yelamee lead them through a sliding door. The room behind it was decidedly bare and small. It was square-shaped, with four great columns reaching from the floor to the ceiling in each corner. A couple of uplink station sat against the far wall, and a blue-colored pedestal rose from the center of the floor, glowing holo-glyphs hanging in front of it. This room was lit by a large light embedded in the ceiling.
"Sit," 'Yelamee told them. "The flight to Xenris will be swift."
No sooner had 'Zextramee sat than the ship lurched beneath him. He could feel the movement occurring around him, but it was barely noticeable. He wished there was a shielded opening in the room so he could watch the stars speed past.
"Hello," someone said behind him.
'Zextramee turned to see the Trainee he had helped rescue from the rockslide standing behind him. He was a little smaller than the other trainees, and he seemed very unsure of what was happening around him.
"Hello," 'Zextramee responded.
"I heard that the training is gonna' be hard... really hard," the Trainee continued.
"Yes," 'Zextramee said, not sure where the conversation was going.
"The other T...Train...uh..."
"Trainees."
"Yeah, Trainsies! They all said that they're gonna' go and help each other when the training starts. But... but they said that cuz' I got lost, I'm too stupid to be with them. So I was wondering... maybe you could help me? I mean, you already helped me before..." the Trainee trailed off.
"Okay, but only if we're allowed to help each other. If we break the rules we might not get to finish our training," 'Zextramee told him.
This thought seemed to frighten the Trainee. But he had gotten the answer he wanted, and sat down near his newfound helper.
"Why are you're scales that color?" he asked.
"I don't know," 'Zextramee replied. "I was born this way."
They continued talking, unaware that 'Yelamee was listening in. His speech is so much more evolved than the other Trainee's... perhaps... no. I cannot place my trust in one as small as him. He will probably fail, just like so many others,he thought.
It was another half-timeframe before the ship shuddered slightly, announcing their arrival into Xenris' atmosphere. 'Yelamee waited a few moments while the irregular movement stopped before standing up.
"Trainees!" he called. "Get on your feet and follow me. We are heading to the gravity lift."
Some of them stood up reluctantly, not wanting to get thrown off their feet by any more convulsions, but a single growl from their orange armored overseer got them up and running. 'Yelamee lead them down the massive corridors, making sure that they were following him.
The door to the gravity lift was a bit larger than the others and was adorned with dark purple symbols. They opened slowly, revealing the room inside bit by bit. It wasn't lit by anything. 'Yelamee ushered them in, and the door shut behind them, plunging them into total darkness.
Suddenly, a light sped upwards from the floor to the ceiling, illuminating the whole room in shimmering purple. Individual white particles danced in the purple beam, further glorifying the spectacle in the room. 'Zextramee gasped delightedly, hearing similar sound escape the other Trainee's mouths.
"Walk into it," instructed 'Yelamee. "And embrace your beginnings."
Birth of a Covenant Legend: CHAPTER 10
Date: 22 July 2005, 6:28 pm
CHAPTER 10
'Zextramee looked around him. The other Trainees' expressions of delight had turned to doubt and fright. None of them were sure exactly what that beam would do, and none of them wanted to find out. The black-scaled Sangheili was sympathetic.
But he snorted at his own feelings. I… am not afraid, he told himself. Maybe this is another test. He thought back quickly to the holographic images his mother had shown him of gravity lifts. They matched perfectly with what he was seeing now.
He took a step forward and sucked in a deep breath, not realizing he had been clenching his mandibles. Two more hesitant steps followed. He looked back and saw that he was standing three steps away from the other five Trainees. Slowly, however, the Trainee he had befriended followed.
Their next steps took them right in front of the violet beam. 'Zextramee stared transfixed at the dancing white particles. This time, the rest of the Trainees followed them, gaining confidence with each step. 'Zextramee looked at them one last time before jumping into the gravity lift.
A sudden feeling of weightlessness enveloped him. He looked up and saw that he was actually moving down quite quickly, yet very smoothly. The port in the ship that the beam was spilling from was growing smaller and smaller.
Next, he looked around him. The gravity lift was lowering them right onto an upraised metal platform, which was nestled in a circular grassy clearing. A lush canopy of trees spread out as far as the eye could see, and different species of birds were flying above.
And then he felt his feet touch the cold surface of the platform, and gravity took hold again. His friend landed right next to him, and the other four Trainees touched down behind them. 'Yelamee landed in the very center of the platform.
"Welcome to planet Xenris," the Overseer announced, spreading his arms grandly.
'Zextramee thought that 'Yelamee looked like a holy figure, towering above them on the upraised platform, the bright morning light glancing off his orange armor.
"Your training will begin here," 'Yelamee said. "Follow me, and I will lead you to the base at which you will be staying, and you individual quarters. Once assigned to your quarters, I will see to it that you are fed and properly settled in. Then you will have half a timeframe to organize your thoughts and rest. After that, 'Pekrumee will arrive and begin your training."
The orange-clad Sangheili lead them down off the platform. 'Zextramee loved the feel of damp grass against his bare feet, and found the varying amount of plant life very interesting. Beneath the trees, it seemed there was an ocean of greens and browns. He could see different animals scurrying among the foliage.
"I'm excited," his friend whispered. "Even a' home, we didn't have 'dis many animals."
"Yes," 'Zextramee whispered back. "This place doesn't seem so bad. I just hope there aren't any dangerous animals lurking around."
"Dangerous?" gasped his friend, his eyes going wide.
"Don't worry… uh… hey, what should I call you?" 'Zextramee asked suddenly. "I never got your name."
"I don't have a name," the Trainee responded. "But my number is 05."
"Alright," muttered the black-scaled Trainee. "I'm going to call you Five… just until you get a name."
"Five," his friend responded. "Sounds fine ta' me."
The rest of their walk was made in silence. The base was a fair distance off, and it took them another full timeframe to arrive. It was fairly massive, and shaped like a giant oval. A bulbous metal pod extended from each corner. The metal outside was hued a deep purple that glimmered slightly, and the surface seemed to be pocketed in many areas instead of being completely smooth. The base was so large that 'Zextramee doubted housing Trainees was its only purpose.
"Trainees!" 'Yelamee barked, pulling 'Zextramee out of his observations. "This is where you'll be staying. The training fields and obstacle courses—or as we call them, gauntlets—are just a little ways from here. But until 'Pekrumee arrives, you are not allowed to leave these grounds."
He led them up to a door which resembled those found on the insides of ships. Two panels, a grey in coloration with magenta runes on them, slid towards each other, one slightly overlapping the other to close. There was also a small console to the right of the doors; 'Yelamee punched a few keys and swiped his double-thumbed hand through the holograph that sprang up, and the doors slid open.
The inside of the base was seemed nearly completely blank. However, 'Zextramee was surprised to find out how little of it was actually devoted to the Trainees. There were six doors in the small lobby, each with a label on them in the standard Covenant language.
Although still not very good at reading advanced literature, 'Zextramee knew enough to interpret three labels. The door on the far right read "Trainee Quarters", the door right beside it read "Nourishment Center", and the door on the far left read "Rejuvenation Bay".
'Yelamee led them into the Trainee Quarters. Inside, everything was a scheme of monochromatic blues. Besides that, there was nothing but beds. They were arranged in four rows of three, and were very plain looking. The metal supports, purple in coloration, had a mattress and a single blanket on them. By each bed was a small console.
"Trainee 01, here," 'Yelamee said, pointing to a bed.
The Trainee called approached the bed and sat on it, apparently satisfied by the way it felt. 'Yelamee approached the console and activated it. A single holographic bar appeared, and the orange-clad Sangheili hit two keys on the key pad. 'Zextramee saw that the Overseer typed in "01". After the display disappeared, he shut the console off.
'Yelamee repeated this step with all six of the Trainees. As 'Zextramee sat on his bed, he asked, "Excuse me, Overseer, but will more Trainees be arriving here? I notice there are more beds left over."
'Yelamee cast a seemingly irate glance at him. "No. Due to the special nature of your training, the High Prophets have asked that your group be the only ones here during this time."
"Special nature?"
The orange-clad Sangheili froze and mentally berated himself, coming up with a quick excuse. "All cases are special when dealing with young Trainees…"
Thankfully, 'Zextramee seemed to accept this. Or maybe he doesn't, 'Yelamee thought frantically. Maybe he's going to discover that we believe him to be… no! Stop this! You act as paranoid as a newborn. He is an infant, a Trainee. Nothing more until he passes his trials.
He ran a hand over his orange helmet. "We should head to the Nourishment Center," he nearly spat.
'Zextramee sprang up, remembering the delicious foods they had been offered aboard the ship. They lined up in three rows of two. Five was directly behind 'Zextramee. 'Yelamee looked them all over, grunted with satisfaction, and lead them out of their quarters.
The door slid open, and for nothing but a few time-units they were in the blank lobby. Then they passed though the door leading to the Nourishment Center. Iniside, the room had metal floors and a ceiling dark-blue in coloration. The walls were a paler, glimmering blue with pocketed surfaces similar to the exterior of the base. Lavender-hued metal pillars jutted up from various points of the room, and low tables rested near them.
'Yelamee pointed to he nearest table, and all of the Trainees eagerly sat down. "Do not move," he told them. "I will return soon with your food. If anyone asks, tell them you are with 'Yelamee."
With that he left.
"I hope he brings us back somethin' good!" Five said. "I'm really hungry."
"So am I," agreed 'Zextramee.
He sat comfortably on the floor. The table was so low that he could easily place food on the table and retrieve it without standing up. He hadn't realized how hungry he was, and the thought of food awoke fresh stirrings in his gut.
'Yelamee returned, pushing a small tray. He quickly handed a plate with food on it to each of the Trainees. 'Zextramee's face fell when he saw the meal. It was nothing but a flat roll and a small portion of some dry fruit. He also handed each a glass of water.
"Is food limited here?" he asked 'Yelamee.
"No. But on the battlefield you will often find yourself with a shortage of both food and water. This will help prepare you. Plus, a full belly makes one sluggish, and you need to be at your peak of physical readiness when the training begins," the Overseer answered.
'Zextramee tried to hide his disappointment and picked up the bread. The texture was good, he had to admit, but the taste was as flat as the bread's appearance. Swallowing his distaste, he finished it off and took the fruit in his small hands. He chewed off a tiny piece and swallowed. Although more tasteful than the bread, it was still far from satisfying.
The rest of the Trainees wore their anger or discontent right on their faces. They ate slowly, as if not wanting to, but not daring to stop because 'Yelamee was watching them. 'Zextramee drank his water as slowly as they ate; it was fresh and cool and was the best-tasting part of the meal.
After eating, 'Yelamee lead them back into the quarters. He activated each of the consoles by the Trainees' beds and then left them. 'Zextramee settled onto his mattress slowly, taking pleasure from the fact that it was quite comfortable. Despite the measly meal, he was quite excited to begin training.
However, as he sat there he figured it was better to be rested when he appeared at the training grounds. He decided to try and sleep for a little. He would've been surprised at how fast slumber took him, if he was still awake to observe.
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