//------------------------------//
// Familiar Grounds 
// Story: Another Kind of Humanity 
// by SPkon107 
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Chapter Fourteen: Familiar Grounds

The town of Ponyville was very peaceful at night. Too peaceful the only thing waiting was a monster attack. Ever since the Covenant Corvette crashed on Equis, many of the predators flee the area closest the town. The sun rose from the east slowly giving light upon the small town. Twilight squirmed around her bed feeling like something was missing. The princess moved her arms around the mattress as she slowly open her eyes. Twilight quickly closed them when the lights of the room were turned on.

“Twilight get up now!” The princess quickly sat up and hopped off the bed. The expression on the farmer’s face worried Twilight.

“What! What happen?!”

"It’s Princess Cadence. Last night she and Princess Luna left the Canterlot to aid a Launch Site near the Badland!”

“Last night!”

“She and Princess Luna are in trouble. We need tah get to Canterlot now!” Twilight wasted no time. She grabbed her proper battle garments and met the farmer downstairs.

“Applejack I need you to get Alex for me.”

“Oh. Uh… about that.” Twilight stopped in the middle of the doorway leading outside.

“AJ? Where is he?”

“In Canterlot.”

“He left?”

“Yes.”

“But-”Twilight leaned against the doorway. Why would Alex just leave without saying anything?
 
“Twilight. Alex receives a call from the Spartan. His ship finally made contact with his Navy.”

“It did?”

“Yes. We can catch him before he leaves. Choppers are out front.”

The Mane six were now being transported to Canterlot. As much as she wondered what Alex next move was, she was much more worried about Cadence. Shining Armor was still unable to be out on the field. As the Chopper hovered of the Castle, Twilight found the Pelican still in the Castle Gardens.

The Princess hopped off the vehicle and rushed towards the Pelican. Why did he leave without a word? Does he not trust me? Why am I making a big deal out of this! When Twilight was around the corner she heard an explosion. She pressed herself against the wall before peaking over. She found the ODST pinning another man on the ground and began to punch him. Twilight then recognized the man on the ground.
“James?” The ODST was then attacked by two other men who accompanied James. Alex was able to throw one of them off while he forced the other man who was holding him from behind into a wall. As soon as the man behind him fell Alex grabbed his rifle and aimed at the three. One man rushed towards Alex. The ODST used his Battle Rifle and shoved his barrel into the throat of his enemy. As the man grabbed onto his throat, Alex fired at the man’s in his shoulder. The ODST turned around and hit the face of one of James’ buddies and then upper cut his foe and knocked him out.

Coming out of the entrance of the castle Princess Celestia and the Spartan along with a few Guards rushed towards the source of the explosion. The Spartan noticed Alex had his weapon drawn.

“Stand down Sergeant!” Alex looked at the Spartan before lowering his weapon. James realizing he messed with the wrong man attempted to make a run for it. He didn’t analyze his path but, instead met the hand of the super-soldier. Jason lifted the man in the air until the James was at level with the visor. The Spartan released him and kicked James to the ground forcing him to roll multiple times before hitting the castle wall.

Jason then welded his Energy Sword. The Spartan made his attack, Celestia casted a shield in front of James. The Sword shattered the shield with a single blow. Jason then Looked at Celestia who was rubbing her hand. Alex looked at James before entering the Pelican to inspect the damages.

“The hell are you doing Celestia?” The princess then stood tall to show authority but, knew it would not affect the super-soldier.

“I cannot allow you to hurt one of my subjects.”

“Your subject attacked my trooper.”

“This is my castle! My rule!” Jason crossed his arm before responding.

“Well see about that. You can deal with the UNSC Military after.” Celestia and Jason turned their attention to Alex who was exiting the Pelican holding a rectangular device with wires hanging off it.

“What is it Sergeant?”

“Shrapnel in the ECU. This bird is not flying.” The Spartan lowered his arms. After so long of waiting their only way to reach the Prowler is gone. Jason quickly made a fist and punch James head. The Spartan crushed the head and left a crater on the wall. Jason then walked past Princess Celestia as she tried to comprehend the actions that took place. The Guard who were there either stepped away in fear or stepped in front of the princess. Celestia tried to speak but, couldn’t find the words. When she did she followed the Spartan inside. Some of the guards picked up James’ corpse and his two friends.

Applejack stood next to Twilight. She whispered in her ear if she wanted her to stay behind. Twilight declined and asked her friends to leave. Twilight only kept her attention to Alex. The ODST looked at the ECU unit before throwing it on the ground. Alex then sat on one of the seats in the troop bay. Twilight slowly approached the Pelican. At this point she figured it will be a bad time to bring up Alex’s leave. She didn’t wanted to anger the Helljumper more than what he was. Twilight took a seat across the ODST.

“Alex?”

“If you’re going to give me shit about leaving in the morning then forget it! I’m not apologizing.”

“Trust me Alex I’m not.” Dear Faust. Alex is really upset about this whole situation. “If you want I can leave you alone.” Alex sat quite for a moment. The ODST then removed his helmet.

“No. I’m just mad about what happened. I didn’t mean to snap at you like that.”

“It’s fine Alex. I’m just glad that you’re not hurt.”

“I know.”
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“You cannot just go out and kill my subjects Lieutenant!”

“Your fucking subjects attack one of my soldiers and took out our only way of transportation!”

“That is no excuse. If it weren’t for you helping us I would have you arrested!” The Spartan turned around to and faced the Princess.

“Is that so?”

“Yes.” Jason approached Celestia. The thumping of his feet put a small thought of regret on her choice of words.

“If I were you I’ll choose my words very carefully Celestia.” Jason walked towards the window. “Come here.” The Princess took a moment before approaching the super-soldier. She took a deep breath and walked over to the window. “Do you know why it’s important I’m to reach the Prowler?”

“Because you received a response from your Navy.”

“No. Why are you fighting?”

“For this.” Said Celestia as she pointed at Canterlot. “I don’t want my subjects to fall slaves or die because the Griffins find us a threat on expanding their kingdom.”

“You fear the destruction of your land.

“Yes.”

“And how is that different from my situation? Celestia the UNSC has been at war with the Covenant for over twenty years and casualties top 20 billion.” Celestia leaned against the wall and kept her sight on the floor. “I can’t help you if you can’t help me.”

“I’m sorry Lieutenant. I understand how important it is to reach your ship, but without a rocket-” The princess stopped mid-sentence. “That’s it. The Launch site!”

“Launch Site?”

“Yes. Luna and Cadence are at a town. Before the town is the Launch Site Facility.”

“Town?”

“Yes. Unfortunately the town has been attack by the Ibixian troops. Luna and Cadence fear that sending the town folk out of the town with no protection will be a mistake.”

“So what do you want me to do?”

“I need you to defend the town long enough to insure the civilians can evacuate safely. By doing do I’ll give you access to one of the rockets. You can use it to reach your ship.”

“So protect a town and get a free ticket to my ship.”

“Yes.”

“Well at this point the trooper and I are in need of transport. Okay what is the intel?”

“Follow me.” The two walked over to the next room where Celestia used her magic to make a quick diorama of the town. “Luna and Cadence have heavy artillery near the front line.” Before Celestia continued a Guard rushed into the room.

“Forgive me your highness. I have news from the town of Starhoof.” The Guard placed the computer on the table. He activated the screen. The camera was on a guard’s helmet. The leaned against a wall and looked at a Changeling Soldier. Celestia stopped the video.

“Why is there a changeling on here?”

“Princess Luna has claimed that the Changelings have joined our forces. In return you and Queen Chrysalis are to negotiate terms.”

“Terms!” The guard took a step back.

“Please Princess. That’s not the thing I wanted to show you.” Celestia rubbed her eyes and kept playing the video. The images then moved over to an opened field. A creature jumped over a hill. The head was reptilian and the body was covered in fur. It stood like a dinosaur and on the center of the fore head was a jewel. Celestia only stared at the screen. The Spartan looked at the screen and asked.

“What the fuck is that.” The guard responded.

“A Nightrox.”

“A what?” Celestia then added.

“A Nightrox is a creature that can bring nightmares to life.”

“Nightmares to life?”

“Yes. Spartan. I need you to kill that monster as soon as you can but, please make sure my people are safe. Also keep Luna from the Nightrox. That creature is the only thing that defies Luna and the Night Realm.


A path was lonely. The snow covered the road with only tire tracks revealing the dirt path. A rabbit jumped of a bush panting heavily. Behind it was a timber wolf. Exhausted the rodent can no longer run. As the timber wolf closed it an olive green vehicle hit the timber wolf. Confused the rabbit looked around before running away as more vehicles crossed the path. The lieutenant was driving the Warthog. On the passenger seat was Twilight and on the gun was Alex. Jason was given the Intel on the Changelings and how they attacked Equestria. This was forced them to set aside the differences and joined forces. Jason was more concerned of the Nightrox. If what Celestia said was true then not only he needed to keep Luna way but, he and Alex as well.

Five Heavy troop transport vehicles and the Warthog were nearing the Launch Site Facility. Unexpectedly the doors opened. The vehicles entered and rushing out one of the doors was Princess Cadence.

“Twilight!” Twilight hopped off the vehicle to embrace the hug. Jason and Alex exited the vehicle. Jason approached the princesses.

“Your highness.”

“Oh Lieutenant! I’m actually happy to see you are joining us.”

“At this point the Sergeant and I have no choice.”

“How so?”

“The princess ex-” The Spartan pointed at Twilight who looked down in embarrassment. “-took out the Pelicans ECU. So your aunt is giving us a rocket. In exchange we defend the town.”

“She’s just giving you a rocket. Just like that?”

“I said the same thing.”

“Well we can discuss this inside. Luna and um… Queen Chrysalis are inside the facility.” Cadence lead the reinforces into the facility. The Spartan let Alex and Twilight to continue into the building. The doors opened revealing many Lunar, Crystal, and Changeling Troops on the ground. Alex kept his attention at the behavior of the soldiers. Some of them seemed as if they were resting from a battle. Most of them were dealing with their injuries they had received from the enemy. Some of the medics were either applying meds onto the injured troops or placing blankets over the dead. Twilight’s gag reflex was kicking in by the smell by the dead. She placed her hand over her mouth. Alex noticed Twilight’s reaction.

“You okay Twilight?” She let out a cough before responding.

“No. I never liked the smell of the dead in a closed room.”

“Can’t blame you.” To Alex the scenery was no different back in the Colony. Many UNSC soldiers fallen to the Covenant. As the Celestial Guards kept going down the hall Cadence led Twilight and Alex to another room. Cadence walked up to a table and removed her helmet and sat down in a chair. The Princess placed her hand on her forehead and took a sighed deeply.

“Why can’t this war end?” Twilight sat next to her sister-in-law to comfort her.

“I know the feeling Cadence.”

“I just want to go back home with my husband. I want my people to live peacefully.”

“I think we all do.” The two gave a hug before continuing.

“Thank you Twilight, but enough about me. I already informed Luna to come here.” Cadence Reached under the table and grabbed a map and spread it across the table. Luna and Queen Chrysalis entered the room. Twilight stepped closer to Alex at the sight of Chrysalis. Luna walked up to Twilight and Alex.

“Thank Faust you arrived. Where’s Celestia?” Twilight stepped away from Alex and respond to Luna.

“Celestia stayed in Canterlot. The Griffins can still attack. Alex and the Lieutenant are her to help. Plus Celestia sent Celestial Guards to aid us.”

“Lieutenant? As in the Spartan?”

“Yes.” Chrysalis walked over to Twilight. “Ah!” Twilight jumped and ran behind Alex. Chrysalis chuckled at Twilight’s reaction.

“Good to see Celestia sent her pets to aid us. How exciting.” Alex crossed his hands and replied to the queen.

“Pets? Well fuck you lady.” The Queen’s smile disappeared and she walked up to the ODST.

“What did you call me peasant?!” Alex step forward and removed his helmet. The two were inches from each other’s faces.

“I called you a bitch!” Chrysalis left hand glowed and pushed Alex to the wall. The ODST tried to break away. “Are you kidding me?! How many bitches have fucking powers.” The Queen gave a sinister smile. Luna used her powers and countered Chrysalis. Alex was let go and quickly rushed towards the queen and kicked the queen. Alex and Chrysalis were ready to fight. The Spartan then entered the room.

“What the hell is going on?”

“AH!” Chrysalis was shocked at the sight of Jason entering the room. “What are you?!”

“Death. Now tell me why you and the ODST in fighting stance.”

“This peasant insulted me. I demand you and this runt to bow down to me.” Jason chuckled.

“Not happening.”

“You-you you’ll be sor-” Jason was fed up with BS. The Spartan grabbed the Queen by the throat and lifted her off the ground.

“We’re not doing any of that. We’re here to help understood.” Jason released the Queen. “No bullshit and no attacking my soldier.” The Queen grabbed her throat. The lieutenant walked over Luna and Cadence. “Okay now how’s the situation?”

“Well a parting from the murdering in this room, the battle is bad. We’ve been pushed back. The only thing separating us is the highway that cuts between the west and east side of the town. The Ibexians heavy artillery making it hard to transport civilians out.”

“How do you move troops in?”

“By rope.”

“Rope?”

“The road the leads to the town is heavily targeted by the cannons. Like a no man’s land. And moving troops in by night makes it easy but, time consuming.”

“Well. Now I see why you’re need killed out there.”

“Oh really and what do you propose?” Jason thought back on previous battles. “I actually do have something.” The Spartan walked over the map to see all of the heavy artillery. Luna, Cadence, and Chrysalis took a seat. Alex stood next to the Spartan. “There was a UNSC planet called Reach before it was glassed by the Covenant. There was a reconnaissance mission in the Viery Territory. A Covenant Stealth Pylon was keeping us blind. A team sent two Spartans to investigate. Noble Team. They died trying to protect the planet.” Chrysalis scoffed.

“How is this relevant? Also Covenant? Noble Team? What the hell are you talking about?” Twilight entered the conversation.

“The Lieutenant and the Sergeant. Are talking about the war they are currently fighting.”

“War?”

“Yes they are from the UNSC.”

“Never heard of it.” Alex answered taking the attention away from Twilight.

“The UNSC is a colony. Humanity has spread across the galaxy. The Covenant is an alien military alliance.”

“Aliens?”

“Yes.”

“You have to be kidding me.” Alex was about to give his retort but, the Spartan placed a device. A hologram showed many images and videos of the many battles of the Human-Covenant war. The one image that was very consistent was the Covenant Carriers glassing planets. This was the first time Twilight actually saw images of the war Alex was fighting in. The aliens gave Twilight a feeling of fear. The Spartan walked around the table and continued.

“Without any interruption. The mission showed us a large scale Covenant Invasion. I propose we do the same thing. We go behind enemy lines and destroy that artillery. We kill the big guns the civilians can escape with little danger.” Luna rubbed her chin thinking about the plan. Luna cleared her voice before speaking.

“The plan sounds too risky to perform. I mean only two soldiers and no back up. Not to mention this sound like a mission for highly trained professionals.” Alex and the Spartan both crossed their arms. Jason shook his head and replied.

“I’m a Spartan. This mission is like a walk to the park. Alex here is an ODST. ODSTs are specialized in operations standard military cannot do. My ODST is very proficient in this kind of missions as well.” Luna’s face turned red. She forgot the type of missions they do.

“Oh right. Aside from that, do you really think one team can pull it off?”

“Yes. While the Sergeant and I take out those guns, I need you to send troops near the division line. We’ll place charges and as soon as we destroy them you attack. From there you can evacuate civilians out of the town.” Luna looked at the other princesses and the queen. This was a mission that could jeopardize the control of the town. On the other hand the enemy would never expect this.

“Would you give us a moment?”

“No problem. The Sergeant and I will wait near those ropes.” The two UNSC troops left the room leaving the royalty to think about the operation. Luna knew Cadence, Twilight and her speak on the Guards behalf. Chrysalis is another issue. The Night Princess stood up and asked the other.

“What do you think of the Spartan’s plan?” the three other women look at one another. Cadence cleared her throat before speaking.

“Well the plan is very risk taking. What will happen if the Ibexians discover the two of them deep behind their line?” Luna nodded at the younger princess’s response and replied.

“That is an outcome we do not want to see. I do not think either of them will go on without a fight. Jason did mention a Spartan being captured was not acceptable. And Alex’s performance has shown he will not go without a fight. I’m more worried about losing them.” Luna took her attention away from Cadence and turned to Twilight.

“What about you Princess Twilight.”

“Well… I’m not very comfortable sending Alex in away like that. I mean them. Them.” Twilight’s face turned red. “What I’m saying they’ll be too far for us to give them support. On the other hand we have civilians trapped here. I’m sure the two of them will prefer to have the civilians out of harm’s way. I say we take a chance.” Luna gave a smile at Twilight.

“I see you are for it. And what about you Queen Chrysalis.”

“I think the two of them are crazy and have no business here.” Luna raised a brow.

“Is that so?”

“Yes! This fight is ours and ours only. Why are these two here for?!” Twilight stood from her seat to retort the queen.

“Because they need a ride back to their ship!”

“Ship?! The Ocean is nowhere near here!”

“How stupid can you be?! You just saw all of the images.” Luna felt that she needed to intervene.

“Stop!” The queen and Twilight turned to Luna. “Okay It is obvious Twilight and I are for the mission. Now Cadence are you for it?”

“Yes I am.”

“Good now Queen Chrysalis. Are you for the mission?”

“Obsoletely not!”

“Okay. Well its three votes. We’re going through with it.”

“What!?”

“Yes. If you don’t like it then you can forget our deal.” The queen looked down.

“Fine!” The queen stood from her seat and exited the room.


The sun has now set and the darkness was now setting in. Alex and the Spartan we’re a street before the freeway. The Princesses used the ropes to lower more troops into the town. Twilight was in a room with Alex waiting for the time to move in. The ODST was inspecting his suppressed SMG and suppressed pistol. Twilight was just looking out the window. She took a deep breath and turned to Alex.

“You’ll be careful right Alex?”

“Come Twilight for the twentieth time I’ll be fine. This is not the first time I’ve done this. Plus it’s not like Covenant will be here.”

“I’ve never faced Covenant and from looking at the images that were shown back at the facility I prefer to keep it that way.”

“I hope it stays like that Twilight.” The ODST checked his ammo and equipped his weapons. The Spartan entered the room.

“Ready to go Sergeant?”

“Yes sir.” The Spartan had his sniper rifle, suppressed pistol and battle rifle with him. The Super-Soldier walked over to the ODST and handed him a device. “Active Camouflage?”

“It might come in handy.”

“This one is Covenant. Where did you get this?”

“The wreckage of the Covenant Corvette.”

“Oh.”  The Spartan walked out of the room leaving Twilight and the ODST alone. “Well I think see you in a bit.”

“Okay.” The two stood awkwardly for a moment. Alex then rolled eyes and kissed Twilight on her cheek.

“Later.” The ODST placed his helmet on and ran out the door. Twilight rubbed her cheek and she stared out the window. The ODST met the Spartan outside. The two walked down the street. Alex looked at the many abandon cars. Most of them were destroyed from the previous battle. The many battle scared buildings reminded him of his many battles in other planets.

“Sergeant?”

“Yes.”

“This feels very familiar.”

“It really does.”

“Next thing you know an Elite Zealot is going to hop out of the side.” The Spartan chuckled but Alex stopped.

“Not funny. I was hit in the leg by a Plasma Rifle by one of those things.”

“Try being impaled by an Energy Sword.” Alex continued to walk.

“Very few people survived an Energy Sword attack.”

“Yeah and it hurt like hell.”

In short time Alex and Jason were walking onto the on ramp to the highway. The highway was over the Hollow Abyss that divided the two sides of the town. Alex was crouched down as the approached the divider. There were a few Ibexian soldiers patrolling the road. Jason and Alex used the stealth comms in order to keep hidden.

“Take them out Sergeant.” Alex approached the soldier as he grabbed his knife. The ODST reached around the head and cover the mouth as he impaled the chest of the Ibex soldier. He then grabbed his pistol and fired two shots at the other. The Spartan walked up to the last soldier and simply punched the soldier. The punched killed the soldier and send him back ten feet back. The two shoved the bodies under a pickup. Alex and Jason activated their camouflage and rushed off the highway. The soldiers entered a building and cleared the lower floor of Ibex soldiers. The Spartan then walked up stairs and cleared the second floor.
Alex deactivated the camouflage and slightly opened the curtains. He used the scope on his helmet and spotted the first heavy cannon. The ODST stepped away and walked up the second floor.

“Spartan. The first cannon is right outside.”

“Perfect. Let’s go.”

“Wait.”

“What is it?”

“Maybe one of use can go and the other provides covering fire.”

“Why is that?”

“In case if one is in trouble the other can cover him.”

“Sounds good. So who goes?”

“Well. You have the sniper rifle so I guess you’ll cover me.”

In less than a minute the ODST was out the building was made his way across the street. He jumped over a brick wall and crouch walk over to the first cannon. He knew the camouflage has a timer. In order to make it last he is going to activate it when he was near the cannons. He stopped and hid behind a crate and allowed two Ibex soldiers to walk by. The ODST looked over the wall and activated his camouflage. The ODST rushed over the cannon and reached for a satchel explosive and placed near the cannon.

Alex after rushed to the nearest building. He quickly used his pistol and knife to clear the room. The ODST pushed a table to barricade the door. On the building where Alex first exited, the Spartan was using his sniper rifle to scout the area. Jason took the opportunity to kill the patrol on the roofs.

Twilight kept staring out the window towards the street. Princess Cadence walked into the room. The princess stood behind Twilight trying to figure out why she had the 1000 yard stare.

“Um, Twilight. Are you okay?” The younger princess did not answer back. Cadence then sat on the same couch Twilight was on. “Twilight?” Cadence poked Twilight.

“Ah!” Twilight then slapped Cadence’s hand away. “Don’t do that!”

“Well pay attention.”

“What are you talking about?!”

“I asked if you are okay? But I can see you’re just fine.”

“Sure let’s stick to that.”

“Are you nervous?”
“A little. I just can’t believe that Alex is in there.”

“Ah so you’re worried about the ODST?” Twilight’s face turned red.

“Shut up! Yes I’m worried but, at the same time I’m nervous. We’re about to be in a big battle. If we’re not careful this could be bad for us.”

“I know how you feel. Aunt Luna and I have been her for over 24 hours. It’s not looking. It’s a good thing Aunt Celestia sent reinforcements along with Alex, and the Lieutenant.” Twilight nodded and turned back to the window. It’s been just about two hours since Alex and Jason left. Just when Cadence was about to speak again, her radio went off.

“Spartan-254 calling in. The ODST and I have already placed five charges. We have one more cannon.”

“Finally good news.”

“Get the troops ready. Once you hear the explosions you’ll attack.”

The Spartan looked back to his scope to search for Alex. Alex was nowhere to be found. The ODST was pinned against the wall by two Ibex soldiers. The ODST kick one soldier in the knee and punched the other across the face. Alex then grabbed his pistol and shot both the soldier. The two fell not being able to alert the rest of their allies. Alex picked up his SMG and looked around. From behind a soldier swung his sword at the ODST. As reaction Alex put his forearm to protect himself. Normal guard armor would have dented or could have even been cut through depending on the sword. Alex’s armor was layered with titanium plating and rendered the steel sword useless and bent the sharp edge. Quickly the ODST kick the Ibex soldier away from. The soldier was about to grab his weapon but, his head exploded as something hit the ground. Alex rushed to a wall and peaked over the ledge and used his HUD scope. He sighed in relief as he spotted the Spartan.

“Might want to hurry and place the last satchel charge Sergeant. The Equestrians are waiting on use. After you place the last charge activate you camouflage and book it back here.”

“Yes sir.” Alex did what he was instructed. The camouflage covered his body and he sprinted down the row of heavy cannons. He ran past a few Ibex soldiers who were searching the dead bodies Alex and the Spartan left behind. The ODST entered the pass the door way as Spartan-254 walked down the stairs.

“Good work Sergeant. Ready?”

“As always.” The Spartan nodded and looked at his data-pad on his left forearm. He selected all of the six explosives and detonated them. The cannons were destroyed simultaneously. The soldiers that were near the cannons were killed from the explosion.

Cadence was in the refugee came when she heard explosion. She turned to the Guards that were next to her. “Start getting the civilians ready. We’re getting them out of here.”   Luna, Chrysalis, and Twilight heard the explosions as well. The three new it was time to attack. Luna led the attack and ran down the street with the other rulers. The reinforcement ran up the on ramp and onto the highway. At sight the Guard and Changeling soldiers open fire on the Ibex soldiers. The two sides took cover behind the abandoned vehicles. Twilight fired her rifle towards the window. The bullets shattered the window of another car and hit the Ibex soldier.

The Ibex were not ready for the large attack and began to retreat. Some Guards began to advance across the highway. Luna hopped over a truck and rushed at a soldier. She kicked him against a car and punched him once then kicked him on the knee forcing him to fall on the ground. She finished him off by grabbing her sword and thrust it in his stomach.

The guards were now pushing back the soldiers. Alex and Jason ran back to the roof and took out as many Ibex troops as possible. The Spartan decided to jump off the roof and landed onto a soldier. The Spartan then kicked another and punched the one next to him. One of the soldiers grabbed his sword and tried to attack Jason. The Spartan grabbed the blade and broke it in two. He then jabbed the sharp end in the throat. Many more grabbed their swords. Jason then grabbed his Energy Sword and activated.

Alex had to escape the rooftop. A rocket flew at the building. The Helljumper jumped off and landed on a pile of garbage. The roof was destroyed by the rocket. Alex hopped of the trash to escape the rubble. He rolled on the ground when two Ibex ran into the ally way. Alex quickly lifted his SMG and fired at the soldiers. Alex rushed out the ally way and found many dead Ibex soldiers on the ground with burnt steel armor caused by an Energy Sword. The Spartan walked over the dead bodies and deactivated his sword.

“Fuck.” Said Alex as the Spartan approached him. “These guys are not ready for Covenant huh?”

“Not even close Sergeant.”

“Spartan!” The two looked behind them. Luna, the queen and the other princess ran up to the UNSC troops. They stopped at the sight of the dead soldiers. Luna slowly walked pass the corpses. “Um uh. Nevermind. So we have commenced the attack. What do we do now?” The Spartan looked down the street as the Guards and Changelings troops ran down the street.

“.We gather a group of soldiers. We each take on street and we take control of the city.”

“Split up? Is that wise?”

“I've seen you in combat. You’re more than capable to doing this.”

Each one of them gathered a group of soldiers and took the alley ways and took a street. Alex took the street that he was already on. He was accompanied by Celestial, Lunar, and Changeling troops. The soldiers ran down the street. He was thinking about what to expect. During his previous battles with the Covenant he encountered many resistance. He was also was encountered small and heavy vehicles. A truck exploded in front of the group of soldiers. A few of them fell from the force of the blast. Alex quickly brought himself back on his feet and looked over the exploded truck.

“SHIT! TANK! RUN FOR COVER!” The other soldiers did so and, ran behind a wall or car. The machine gun operator opened fire at the soldiers. Behind the tank were a group of Ibex soldiers. Alex knew that the tank had very little space to move so his main concern was the machine gun operator and the other soldiers. The ODST aimed at two soldiers who were rushing towards him. The two soldiers were killed by the ODST and then he aimed at the gun operator. The gunner’s head jerked to the right and he fell off the gunner seat. Two Solar Guards jumped on the tank in attempts to open the hatch and throw their grenades inside. Unfortunately the two guards were killed by an Ibex soldier that caught them. Alex ran out of his cover and charged at a soldier. He melee the soldier in the head, He then grabbed the soldier’s right arm and him over Alex’s shoulder. Once on the ground Alex stomped on the Ibex’s head. The tank took the opportunity to drive forward and turn to another street.

In a park Twilight and Cadence were surrounded by the Ibex troops. Twilight sprinted to a concrete bench. She barely managed to escape the bullets. One bullet hit her shoulder armor. The force of the bullet sent her forward to the ground. He rolled back and then slid down a hill. The Princess then sprinted down the field where Cadence was around a large picnic area. All of the benches and tables were concrete. Many Crystal guards and Celestial guards were injured. Twilight finally met up with Cadence.

“What happened here?!”

“A large group of Ibex troops attacked us. We managed to defeat them but, we have many injured!” The ground began tremble. The two princesses looked to the west. A tank drove over a hill with no machine gun operator. The barrel of the tank rotated towards Twilight and Cadence and fired at them. The two flinch but, only felt dirt hitting them. In mid-air a stone with a chunk missing was floating in front of them.

“Changelings Attack!” Shouted Chrysalis. Her troops ran over another hill. Two Humvees jumped over the hill and the gun operators fired at the tank. The queen walked down the field making her way towards Twilight and Cadence. Twilight still could not believe that her enemy was now saving her. “Medics!” four medics stood in front of their queen.

“Yes your majesty!”

“Tend to the injured.” The four rushed to the Guards. Twilight build up the nerve ta ask.

“Why are you helping the guards?”

“As much as you I hate. I must ensure my people’s safety.”

“What?”

“I believe the time to talk is not now.”




Several hours later

Alex aimed hit Battler Rifle at a pair of Ibexian soldiers charging at him. He fired two bursts. One set hit one soldier in the head and, the other hit him in the chest. The ODST then, rushed down the street and hid behind a car. Behind him were five Lunar Guards and three Changeling soldiers. Alex looked at one of the Lunar Guards.

"Private take another and flank the right side of the street. The rest take the left. I'll get their attention." Alex rushed out to the center of the street and threw a grenade. The grenade kill three enemy soldiers behind a turned over pickup. More Ibexians advance towards the ODST. Alex activated his Active Camouflage and moved towards one of the cars as the Lunar and Changeling troops took the opportunity to take out the Idexians.

When the enemy fell the soldiers ran down the street. After hours of fighting the Changelings and Equestrians finally managed to push the Ibexians back. As he ran Alex thought back on his previous battle with the Covenant. The only time they turned back for no reason was because Covenant Carrier was about to Glass the surface. Alex even looked up to make sure that wasn't the case. He then shook his head. (Don’t be a fucking idiot) He and many group of soldiers ran out of the last set of buildings of the town. Twilight, Luna, Cadence, and even Chrysalis were on the outskirts. The four then turned back to direct every troops position. The ODST scanned the area.

"No Ibexian?" He approached a large tree. A Lunar Guard stood by Alex.

"Where are they?"

"I don't know." Leaves fell from the large tree followed by a growl. A large creature jumped down and whipped the ODST with its tail. The Guard shouted.

"Nightrox!" As he raised his weapon but, the creature pinned him down. It roared at the gem in the center of its forehead glowed. A dark mist cloud swirled beside the two. Alex couldn't believe what he saw. It was clear that the Guard had Arachnid-phobia because an eight foot tall spider suddenly appeared. It was a normal looking spider but, on the top of the head was emitting the same black mist it appeared from. "No! No!" The guard did no attempt to fight and the spider immediately attacked him. The Nightox attacked the other Guards and Changelings. When it grabbed a soldier it suddenly stopped and sniffed the air. The Nightrox looked at Alex as he got up. The Nightrox released the soldier and charged at Alex. The ODST opened fire but, the bullets did little to it. The Nightrox grabbed Alex and brought him close. It sniffed the ODST and gave a sinister smile. It roared and the gem glowed.

Alex was dropped to the ground. Unlike the Guard who quickly reacted to his nightmare, Alex felt drained. He shook his head for a moment. A foot stomped in front of him. Two toe fingers covered in red armor was the first thing he saw. He continued to look up. The familiar appendages from an enemy near him kept him in shock. (No. Not now!)

"Eli-" Alex was cut off as a hand with two finger and two thumbs grabbed him from his neck and lifted him off the ground. The creature now had Alex at his height. "No... it can't be." Alex struggled to break free but, the grip was too strong. The four part mouth opened in a growl revealing the creature’s teeth. The Spartan ran up a hill to check on his trooper.

"Sergeant?" The Spartan approached the ODST but now was in shock. "Elite?" Behind the Elite walked Grunts, Brutes, Jackals, and Hunters. "COVENANT!"

Jason raised his assault rifle as the Elite dropped the ODST. The two fired at one another. The Energy shields of the two were taking the damage. Jason evaded to his left after his roll he rushed at the Elite. The Spartan melee the Elite in the head. The Guards that were still around heard a loud crack. The other Covenant troops began to spread around. Jason turned his attention to the Guards and the Changeling.

“The fuck waiting for! Open fire!” Jason picked up the ODST and ran to the town. The Guards and Changelings fired at the Covenant. The Covenant was in standard formation. The Grunts and Jackals were in the front and the Elites in the back. The Nightrox was bringing out many troops from Alex’s battles. The Equestrians weapons barely managed to damage the energy shields from the Elites and Brutes. The armor on the Grunts and Jackals were also strong to hold up against the bullets for a short time. Jason jumped over a car and lowered the ODST and removed his helmet. The Helljumper was mumbling.

“No. No Covenant.”

“Sergeant?” Alex was still mumbling. Jason then took a knee. “Sergeant!” The Equestrian leaders and Queen Chrysalis finally reached the two UNSC soldiers. Luna was confused on Alex’s behavior.

“What’s wrong with him Lieutenant?”

“Trauma! Don’t you see!?” The Spartan got on his feet. “Whatever that thing is just made Covenant!”

“What!?” The Princess noticed many Guards running away or being attacked by Covenant. “Oh no. Shadows.”

“Shadows? No that’s Covenant.”

“Shadow Covenant lieutenant. It took Alex’s nightmare.”

“The fuck! We have to defeat them quick.”

“You can fight all you want but, it will be for nothing.”

“Nothing?” A plasma bolt hit the car. “Explain to me later.” The Spartan gave the ODST a kick.

“Huh what!”

“Get up. Standard defense protocol. We have civilians still evacuating the town. We defend the town and take out as many Covenant as we can.” Alex looked over the truck and saw Grunts and Jackals rushing towards them. Alex grabbed his helmet and aimed at the Shadow Covenant. The Spartan tapped on the ODST’s shoulder.

“Ready?”

“Yes.” The two leaned against the truck as many Guards and Changelings retreated.

“Sergeant!”

“Yes.”

“These soldiers are not trained to fight Covenant. We have to slow these guys down as much as we can.”

“Just the two of us?!”

“Hey. I’m a Spartan. We’ll be okay.” The Spartan leaned out of cover and fired at the pair of Grunts running towards them. Alex rolled away from the truck and landed behind a car and fired at an Elite. Alex knew how important it is to stop the Shadow Covenant. They weren’t much different from the normal Covenant. The ODST was nearly hit by a needle gem. The soldier turned to the direction of the gunner. A Skirmisher on the roof with a Needle Rifle was hit with five bullets originating from Alex’s SMG.  “Fall back!” The ODST realized the large group of Covenant troops making their way down the street. As they ran the Spartan contacted Princess Luna. “Your Highness?! Luna!”

“You’re alive!”

“Of course I am! Where’s your location?!”

“We are on the high.”

“Hold position there! We need to slow down the Shadow Covenant’s advancing. The last thing we need are the fucking Brutes getting to those civilians!”

“Why?”

“You don’t want to know! Out!”

Luna looked back at the west side of town. She shouted at her Lunar Guards to hold position. She did not know how to fight Covenant. Jason did say it was like a firefight. Just the enemy uses energy base weapons and had the power to burn planets. Princess Cadence stopped at the sight of her aunt’s actions.

“What are you doing?”

“We have to fight.”

“Fight? That’s crazy! Did you not see how quickly those monsters broke through our defenses?”

“If you wish to flee then do so. I did not know you were surrendering.”

“There’s a difference between running away and running to fight another day.”

“That is not the case here! We still have civilians escaping the town. There is no other day. Jason and Alex fight these things every day. They know what to expect.” Luna walked away from Cadence. The younger felt like her aunt called her a coward. She was scared f what was going on but a coward she was not. Cadence grabbed Twilight’s arm as she was about to run pass her.

“I need you to take guards and make a line of defense five blocks way the highway.”

“What about you Cadence?”
“I’m staying here.”

Alex pulled his knife out of the head of a Brute. It’s been weeks since he fought a Brute. {Probably should have trained a bit} thought the ODST was he began to sprint towards the highway. There were five dead Elites and three dead Brutes on the ground left behind by the Spartan. The Spartan was already making his way up the ramp. Alex knew he didn’t have long until he was attacked by an Elite or a Jackal sniper. The ODST flinched when a beam of energy hit the ground. Alex jumped behind a car.

“I fucking knew it!” He looked over the ledge in search of the sniper. Another beam hit the ground near his feet. He leaned against the car. “Bastard’s on a market roof. The ODST’s comms went off.

“Where the hell are you Sergeant!?”

“Sniper had me pinned. Covenant is closing in. I’m just about thirty feet from the on ramp.” The Spartan crouch walked over to a jersey barrier. He used his sniper rifle.

“Location?”

“On the roof of a Market.” The super-soldier found the ODST and then looked over the buildings. He scanned three rooftops before finding the sniper. He adjusted his scope to compensate the loss of speed and increase of air resistance. The Jackal’s head exploded from the bullet and fell over the wall.

“Now Sergeant!” The ODST knew what it meant. He left his cover and made a run for the ramp. A Grunt hopped in the air and caught the attention of the Brute. The Brute let out a roar and aimed his Carbine at the human soldier. Unfortunately he never had the chance to fire due to falling from the bullet of the Spartan’s Sniper Rifle. Many other Covenant troops spotted the Spartan.

Alex ran onto the freeway. The Spartan stepped away from the barrier as many plasma bolts either hit the barrier or flew over it. The two now ran across the highway. As soon as the two reach the end, they jumped of the space between the two roads. Luna and Cadence were waiting for them.

“Oh thank Faust.” Said Luna as she walked over to Alex and Jason. “How bad?” She then had her attention to the Spartan. “How bad?”

“Bad.”

“Damn.”

“Luna?”

“Yes?”

“Why did you say this fight will be for nothing?”

“The Nightrox can create so many shadows. He has a limit. Killing every shadow only means that he can absorb the shadow and revive it.”
“What if we kill the Nightrox?”

“That’ll kill the shadows. But you need to avoid the shadows.”

“Fuck.” The Spartan shook his head and then looked to the east back at the launch site. “Luna?”

“Yes.”

“What was the Ibexian’s goal in taking over the town?”

“Control of the launch site. There are many things we want to keep way the enemy.” Jason now knew the situation was worsening every minute. “Sergeant!”

“Yes sir!”

“We’re initiating Cole Protocol.”

“Cole Protocol? Sir I doubt the Ibexians will ever reach Earth.”

“I’m aware of that. This version is different.” The super-soldier turned to Luna. “Luna I need you to rig the facility with explosives.”

“What why?!”

“To prevent the theft of information.”


Luna ordered the facility to be rigged with explosives. Three of the four rockets were ready as well. One was left alone for Alex and Jason to use. The Equestrians were now trying to hold their position on the highway. The Equestrians suffered more casualties than when they fought the Ibex. Many Guards only fired their weapons at the Covenant but, the energy shields replication was on point. When a few try to us their sword the only results were meeting the bigger alien’s fists. Alex and the Spartan had to give the Guards a few pointers on taking out the Elites and the Brutes. At this point the Shadow pushed the Guards out of the highway.

Twilight was jumped over a tipped over trash can when she was tackled down by a Jackal. She rolled to the left when the alien tried to stomp on her head. Twilight then grabbed her sword and swung at the alien. Unfortunately the sword did nothing to his armor. She took a step back as the Jackal prepared to attack again. She was saved when a car door hit the alien. She turned left. The Spartan ran over to the Princess.

“You okay.”

“Uh-yeah?”

“Watch out for the claw and aim at the indent on its shield gauntlet. If you use your knife try to hit it in his neck.” Without another word the super-soldier kept moving. She then turned back at the dead alien emitting the dark mist from the head.

Alex and a Changeling were running to avoid the Gravity hammer of a Chieftain. The Brute sung his hammer in the ground between the two soldiers. The force of the weapon sent the two flying. Alex hit a bench and the Changeling to a wall. Cadence was across the street witnessing the entire thing. The Brute then slammed his hammer on the head of the Changeling as Alex was picking himself up. The ODST raised his SMG and fired at the Chieftain. As expected the Brute had strong energy shields. The alien sung his hammer again. The ODST took a step back just having the tip of the blade scratch Alex’s chest plate. Alex grabbed his chest before rolling to his right. The soldier grabbed his pistol and aimed at the face. The alien’s head jerked at the force of the bullets.

This time the Brute was angry and used his fist. The force of the punch forced the helmet to come loose. The ODST removed his helmet. Alex tried to punch the Brute but; the alien grabbed his arm and then pushed the ODST at a car. The Chieftain then punched Alex in the gut. Alex fell to the ground immediately and clutched onto his belly. Cadence charged at the Brute with her sword and attempted to stab him. The blade was chipped on the side and deflected off the armor. Shocked the Princess took a step back before being kicked to the same car. The Chieftain turned his hammer with the blade facing the two humans. Before hitting the two humans, the Brute was hit by a fist. Cadence noticed how the Brute took a few steps back.

The Brute stared at the Spartan. “Demon.” Said the Brute as it grabbed his hammer with two hands. The two then ran to one another. The Brute was about to swing down but the Spartan ran up the alien’s leg and kick him in the chin. The energy shields lit up and the Super-soldier grabbed his energy sword jabbed the blades into the head. When the Chieftain hit the ground, his helmet fell off.

Cadence helped Alex on his feet. The ODST was still holding onto his stomach. “First Manehatten, now here?! Why do you keep picking me up off the ground?”

“No idea Alex.” Cadence heard the thumping footsteps of the Spartan approaching them.

“You okay Sergeant?”

“Yes sir. Not the first time I fight a Brute.”

“Good. The Equestrians are taking a beating. Luna has ordered the facility to be rigged with explosives. One rocket is left alone for us.”

The three ran down the street. Over the course of four hours the Equestrians and Changelings have attempted to push back the Shadow Covenant but were not successful. Twilight was hit by a plasma bolt of a Plasma Rifle in the leg and hit by a spike by a Spiker on the shoulder. Queen Chrysalis was heavily injured by a Plasma grenade. Luna had broken two broken ribs from a fight with an Elite Zealot. Cadence was the only suffered cuts and bruises.

The Spartan did not really suffered any injures. The only damage was scrapes and chipped of paint on his armor. His shoulder armor has the corner smoldered off. Alex was still hurting from his fight with the Chieftain. The ODST was on the trail that led to the facility. The soldier was with the other troops as the traveled up the trail. Alex heard the charging of a weapon. When he looked back his eyes widened.

“SHIT! HUNTER!” The ODST quickly jumped over a rock. Unfortunately three Guards were killed by the blast of the Hunter’s Plasma Cannon. Many of the soldiers opened fire at the behemoth alien. Many of the bullets only ricocheted off the alien’s armor. Only a few bullets hit the neck of the Hunter. “No aim for the back!” The Hunter swung his heavy shield at two Changelings. The two hit the ground but, did not survive the attack. Alex knew they were not going to survive. Alex left his cover and aimed his SMG in the rear. Orange blood fell from the Hunter swung back and hit a soldier that launched him at Alex. The two fell to the ground. The Hunter stood over the two and raised his shield.

Out of the blue an orange blood stained Spartan grabbed onto the shield before striking the two smaller soldiers. The Spartan was then hit with the plasma cannon. The other soldiers the armor flares from the body of the Spartan. Alex on the other hand already knew it was his energy shields. The Spartan jumped over the Hunter and dropped a plasma grenade on the back. The Grenade exploded and broke the rear armor. The alien roared as it swung the heavy shield back. The Spartan hopped backwards to avoid the attack. Alex and the remaining troops fired their guns in the open rear. The Hunter’s colony of worms cannot handle the incoming bullets.

After the Hunter fell the Spartan and the other soldiers ran up the hill. Alex realized that he and the group were the only soldiers left on the field. The ODST looked down at the town. When he arrived about sixty-seven percent of the town was destroyed from the fight with the Ibex. The battle with the Shadow Covenant left the town to ninety percent destroyed. The many dead bodies on the ground was not a stranger to Alex. Alex suddenly felt a strong pain on his left pain. The ODST fell to the ground and made a roll. He held onto the back of his leg. Another round hit the ground. It was then he knew that he was hit by a Covenant Carbine. The beam punctured the armor and under suit. The beam only took out the top of his skin but the heat of the plasma was severe.

There was blood coming from his wound. The ODST picked himself up and limped forward. He avoided the many plasma bolts. From behind a plasma grenade exploded sending the soldier forward and onto the ground. Alex head was still spinning from the blast. He wiped the dirt off his visor before rolling back on his legs. He was picked up by the super-soldier. Jason then went on full sprint up the hill towards the facility. Many Guards and Changelings were already in position firing at the upcoming Shadows. Two Guards were at the door waiting for the two. The doors slammed close then the two entered the facility.

Alex’s visor was showing an outline of a body. Certain parts were red indicating injuries. The Spartan applied bio-foam on Alex’s leg. He then turned his attention at the remaining troops. A victory was no longer visible. Jason searched for Luna. He found her in a room with a medic. Her armor and clothes were off her body. The only with on her body was cloth bandage wrap and her bra. Luna let out an eep and her face turned red.

“Hey!”

“Relax. It’s not the first time I see a beautiful woman.” Luna’s face turned even redder. “Your highness?”

“Yes.” Said Luna ad she carefully put on a shirt. “What is it?”

“We are not winning this fight.”

“I know that. The explosives are ready. All you need is to pull the trigger.” Luna showed the Spartan the remote.

“What about the troops?”

“I don’t know.”

“Princess the Prowler is in orbit right above us.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“I can provide covering fire while your troops retreat.”

About thirty minutes later the remaining soldiers were rounded up on the main exit. A small amount of soldiers were on balconies keep the Shadow Covenant back. Alex was on the balcony as well helping. Luna, Cadence, and Twilight were at the control room preparing the rocket for Alex and Jason. Jason exited the building and walked in the center of a balcony. On the outside a Shadow Covenant army and the Nightrox stared at the facility. Behind the fake army was the Ibex Army. The only thing missing was the Covenant Vehicles and Covenant Fleet. The Spartan lifted his left forearm and turned on the screen of his data-pad.

(Bumble bee missiles active. 70 missiles)

The soldier pressed the screen and it flashed red. Jason grabbed his rifle and looked at the other nervous soldier.

“Hold this position as long as we can! As soon as the orbital strike hits, make a run for the exit!” Alex knew he was excluded from the other soldiers. Not long after the Soldier fires their rifles. The first to lead the charge was the Elites. The aliens sprinted at the facility. Behind them were Brutes and then the other smaller Covenant. The Ibex Troops then followed behind.

The enemy soldiers were not even half way to the facility. The first missile hit the ground. The explosion killed numerous Elites and the impact of the missile send a power force outwards. Many more soldiers fell victims to the UNSC orbital strike. At that point Equestrians made a run for the exit. Alex and Jason ran to the rocket. The building was shaking due to being so close to the fire zone. Jason started to believe that the cliff was going to be unstable. The Princesses were still in the control room. Jason had already too much to deal with.

“What the hell are you still doing here?!” Luna gave a face of disapproval before responding.

“Preping your rocket!”

“Fuck. Alex!”

“Yes?”

“Help Twilight onto the rocket.” The three were now confused. Luna limped to Jason.

“What are you doing?”

“It’s too late for you to escape.” The Spartan picked up the princess. “On to the rocket.” The five traveled to the rocket. The building seized to shake. The two UNSC troops knew that the rockets did their job. The five took their seat.

The door entrance flew open revealing a heavily injured Nightrox and thirty injured Shadow Covenant and ten injured Ibex troops. The surviving group searched the area around them. There was a loud sound and a violent rumbling. The groups ran to source. A large rocket was pushed itself in the air. The Nightrox entered the room staring at the rocket. He then spotted many flashing lights. When he realized what they were, many explosions surrounded the facility. Support beam fell following the roof. The fall of the building was enough to cause the cliff to collapse. The rocks and metal ruble killed the remaining Covenant and Ibex. The Nightrox looked down to his chest and spotted a rebar in his chest. The creature then glimpsed around at the dead bodies before giving his final breath.

The rocket ascended upwards. Twilight held on tightly onto her seat as she felt the G-force being applied onto her body. She then felt something on her hand. The Princess turned to the left and realized it was Alex who was holding onto her hand. Twilight noticed that Alex was barely fazed by the rocket. She gave the soldier a smile before turning back to the front window. It was not long when the vehicle exited the atmosphere. The Equestrian guns raised in the air. Cadence reached for her rifle but failed as her fingertip grazed the handle. She gave it an angry stare as it spun away. The Spartan used his data-pad.

“Lilly?” The UNSC A.I. appeared on the screen.

“Y-yes?”

“I need you to turn off the sentry turrets and add three personal into the IFF list.”

“Yes sir.” The A.I. did so as the rocket approached the Prowler. Luna’s eyes widen at the side of the ship and how something small was able to heavily aid with battle. Even though the ship was bigger than the rocket. The rocket was near the Prowler Jason stood from his seat and informed the princesses to put on space suits. Alex on the other hand made sure that his suit was sealed. He grabbed a sealant from his life-pack and sealed the punctured he acquired in battle. Alex and Jason then helped Twilight and Luna since the two had injures from fighting. Minutes later the Spartan and the group entered a room and opened the hatch after the pressure was released.

Jason jumped out the rocket and onto one of the doors of the other ship. Jason entered a code allowing the humans passage. Cadence held onto her aunt as carefully moved to the other ship. Alex did the same with Twilight. Not long after entering the ship, Jason led Twilight and Luna to the medical hall. Alex was then admitted to the list as well. After an hour of treating injuries, Jason exited the room and made his away to the bridge.

“The light is still green.” Said the Spartan as he pressed buttons on the key board. He established a response signal. “Come on, come on.” The screen turn on revealing a commanding officer. The Officer shocked the Spartan as he was not expecting him to answer.

“Lord Hood?! Sir!” The soldier saluted Hood.

“At ease Spartan. Finally we manage to establish communications.”

“It’s been quite long weeks here sir.”

“Speaking of weeks. Mind explaining me what you been doing?”

“Well… where do I start?”