Chapter Thirteen

Hestia System

Meridian, Moon of Hestia V

Unified Earth Government Base of Operations: Echo

Gilroy City

April 3rd, 2548 0723 Hours

Morning light poured into the halls of the UEG base’s ground level floor as General Davis and Sargent Samuel Hendricks walked through. They were accompanied by ONI Agent Kyle Toland, Dr. Rachel Hoss and Captain Edmund Persie of the UNSC’s Galactic Fleet. Staff and other personnel moved out of their way as the group approached the Command Center. The doors slid open as they passed through and Davis was immediately given a rundown of the current situation by his Lieutenant Commander, Lindsey Jewels.

“Sir, for the last three hours several posts throughout Virgo and Uma have gone down” She said stopping General Davis.

“What about their emergency lockdown protocols?”

“Their walls have been breached. Virgo is holding off from EMP activations until Sector 1 is infiltrated but Virgo is seeing only a few skirmishes every hour or so.

“They don’t know where it is.” Hoss whispered but not quietly enough; General Davis faced her.

“You’re certain that is why they are here?” He asked.

“I haven’t seen the Covenant behave this way since New Harmony was destroyed.” Captain Persie but in. “And I’m almost certain ONI mentioned something about “ancient technology” being the reason the planet was under attack in the first place.” The General straightened his back knowing full heartedly not to argue with the Captain, but his gut was telling him otherwise.

“They’ve broken through Sector 1!” Jewels yelled out. Just as she said it the whole room was on their feet typing as fast as they could and ordering every available unit in the area to engage. General Davis looked to the big screen displaying the assault. Four Phantoms and several Wraiths penetrated the western wall with dozens of infantries including Hunters. Every marine standing in the district was killed within a matter of seconds. Captain Persie kept posture. He was certain the Covenant were after something and he was going to stop them the best he could.

“Doctor” Persie said tapping Hoss’s shoulder. “We need to keep the skies clear so these men can do their jobs.”

Hoss took one glance at Toland who was less than excited to see them part again. Throughout the entire war they were constantly separated. Meridian was the only outpost where they had the opportunity to spend time together but not anymore. It took every instinct in Hoss not to hug Toland. Instead, she nodded and said, “Till next time”. Toland’s face tightened and he nodded watching her walk away. He knew she had other duties to attend but with the Colonel Gear gone he truly felt alone. Sure, Ethan gave him company, but it wasn’t the same as having someone you knew by your side.

“Agent Toland.” General Davis broke his train of thought.

“Yes, Sir.”

“Go with the Sergeant.” He nodded to the Spartan that was now standing beside Toland. “He’ll escort you to our launch pads.” The General stepped forward having his hand over the holopanel before him. It lit up showing Gilroy in the tiniest of detail. He pushed a few buttons and the display was focused on the shoreline just outside Sector 4.

“This is our last defense of option.” He said pointing at the Sector. “If the Covenant notice we’re trying to escort anyone off this planet then everything happening in Virgo will be directed at us.”

Toland didn’t like the Generals attituded but he was right. Virgo was more than twice the size of Gilroy and it fell to the enemy hands within days. The only thing it had going for it were UEG bases carved into the cities foundation. If this place wasn’t a manufacturing city, then it would have already been laid waste by the Covenant.

“How do we ensure the shuttles leave unscathed?”

“There are few military prototypes docked near the vehicle bays there.” Said Samuel. “They haven’t been tested in battle yet but have passed every training course built for them.”

Toland nodded. He knew about HANNIBAL Weapon Systems and their association with the UNSC. The project was to build fast, maneuverable tanks that could decimate infantry while dispatching several 35mm missiles to stop vehicles in their tracks. The most appealing aspect about the prototypes is that they are said to have regenerating shields and walk on two legs.

“Sounds good.” Toland straightened.

“I will send as much as I can but as soon as the shuttle is air born there isn’t much I can do.” The General said.

As soon as he stepped away from the holopanel he looked up at the main screen. Lieutenant Commander Jewels had been preoccupied during his speech. She was investigating several anomalies that surfaced near Gilroy. South of the city, no more than a mile from the vehicle’s depot, a Type 27 Anti-Air Cannon Mantis emerged from the smoke as several Phantoms left the area.

“How in the hell?” Davis breathed. Toland and Samuel were just as mystified though Samuel was expressionless.

“Ready to go against that?” Samuel nudged.

Toland slowly turned his head attempting to pull his eyes away. “I’ve never taken out an Ant-Air Gun before, so you’ll have to take the lead on this one.”

Samuel huffed.

“Lieutenant Commander,” the General turned.

“Yes, Sir.” She pulled herself around, bothered and clearly under pressure.

“How did the Covenant slip under out radar and drop off a gun that size?” He fast walked toward her.”

“They must have jammers on board, it’s not on our radar. Apparently, there are over a dozen more scattered throughout the shorelines from here to Virgo” She said. The main screen zoomed out and uncovered more Anti-Air Cannons positioned on the coast.

“Well then” Samuel breathed. This was the first time in a while he was shocked. Toland swallowed deeply.

“You don’t have any more time” the General turned toward the two men. “Get that family to the depot before the Covenant find it” He yelled as both Toland and Samuel marched out from the Command Center

“I’ll pull a Warthog around while you get them ready.” Samuel said.

“Aren’t we escorting more civilians?” Toland asked looking around for eavesdroppers.

“Are you kidding?” Samuel shock his head. “That will be for another time, if we get one. We’re going to have the shuttle rendezvous with one of the Anchors in orbit. We’ll immediately send it to Earth in hopes more Covenant don’t arrive.”

Toland didn’t like the change of plans but nodded anyways. Samuel patted him on the back. “Don’t worry ONI man, we’ll be fine.”

Ethan opened his eyes suddenly. His heart was racing—budging against his chest like a balloon about to pop. Sweat dripped from his eyes and he sat forward, the room was dark. He leaned over touching the lap that sat beside the bed. A low dim yellow cast itself across the room indicating he was alone. He liked that. He didn’t want to hide his fear anymore. All he wanted was to cradle himself in a corner and pretend the last year has just been a long nightmare. But the emotion of hopelessness passed over quickly as he reminded himself that several millions of people have already suffered more than he had. Wiping his head, he pushed himself of the bed and the door opened. Great. People.

“Ethan, you awake?” Toland asked walking through the doorway. The chatter and commotion from the halls told Ethan it was time to go before Toland could say a word.

“Let me guess” He lifted his head morbidly “We need to go”

Toland ignored his attitude and aloud himself in the room. “Yes, we do. Where are your parents?”

“Umm, in recovery?” Ethan looked at him confused. Toland’s lack of awareness was preying on him since Rachel had left. Even though they kept their relationship secret it was the impending doom of Meridians fall that held high over his head causing his emotions to get the best of him. Sometimes he had wished he was a Spartan, suppressed of all emotion, no fear of death and more than enough skill to help others. But even they lost to the Covenant. It was hard, even for professionals to keep everything down.

Toland shook his head. “They’ve been released and notified already. I just assumed they would be here by now.”

Ethan pulled himself from his bed and gathered his clothes. He knew there wasn’t time for a shower or satisfying meal, but he was fine with it. His mind was elsewhere. Flashes of his dream crossed his vision. He remembered speaking with someone but couldn’t recollect seeing a face. He heard a voice, her voice, but couldn’t point a time and place. It was most confusing.

“Is there something wrong?” Toland asked. Ethan glanced up at him but turned away deciding whether to say anything at all.

“I had a dream but I’m fine.”

“What was it about?”

“I don’t know.” He began slipping on his shoes. “I think I was talking to someone, a woman. She told me—”

“Told you what?” Toland approached the bed. Ethan rubbed his eyes knowing it was just going to cause things to get worse and more confused, but he could swear this person knew something about his future, as if she was planning it. Accent.

“She calls herself Accent. I don’t know her or know where she is but she told me I would live, survive Meridian and that I needed to go to the pass where two lakes meet.”

Toland’s head leaned to the side and he tried to understand. Several questions crossed his mind. He thought Ethan coming in contact with the AI at the Luminary was not a great idea could be affecting him but after all that was the point right? To bring Ethan to the Luminary? He didn’t know.

“It sounds like she might be the same person that gave you those premonitions.” He assured. Ethan was surprised by that statement. Usually, all anyone ever did was harass him for his selfishness filtering their grief on him, like he’s some special kid who demands attention during every second of their lives.

“Look” Toland began. “It’s been rough for everyone the last few days. Let’s just keep this between us and we can go over it another time. Until then, are you good?”

Ethan nodded knowing full heartedly Toland was only here because of his premonitions. ONI had a bad reputation for being selfish and cold hearted but everything he experienced with Toland proved him otherwise. Maybe he really wanted to help maybe he didn’t. The point was that he was still with him.

“Come’ on. We have a ride to catch.” Toland said.

It wasn’t long before Ethan was reunited with his parents. They were happy to see him and spent a lot of their time talking about what they might do when they get to the space station. Toland liked the background chatter as he loaded the Elephant. Samuel was carrying twice his weight which made the loading a lot easier.

“I think we’re all set” said the driver, waving his hand from atop the vehicle.

Everyone stepped onboard as the door lifted and latched. Ethan looked around surrounded by walls as marines and a Spartan crossed the decks. He felt safe for the most part but the gaping hole that should be a roof was open allowing the marines to defend the Elephant. As the engines kicked on a marine guided Ethan and his family to the front seats beside a holopanel.

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Samuel positioned himself on the top desk next to the turret as the marine followed his actions. He glanced back at Toland who was setting coordinates for their destination. In case they lost control of the Elephant in any mechanical way it would drive itself. A neat feature for such a big vehicle.

“Sergeant Kendrick” General Davis said appearing on the holopanel. Toland and the marines gathered round.

“Go ahead General” Samuel said.

“Sector 4 is a dangerous place; we’ve lost several squadrons within the last 12 hours. The Elephant is your best defense. The occasional drop ship sets down by the first gate leading to the launch pads while Banshee’s roam the outer wall. We can assist with distractions, but your main objective is to retrieve the Mark IX Arms Defense System protype from the vehicle depot deep within the Sector. From there, the Foster family is number one priority. Follow the Cherbourg highway until you reach the shuttles. Get them up and running and Captain Persie will locate the hidden Cruiser then disable it giving you the green light.”

“Understood” Samuel nodded.

“Remember,” the General added looking at Samuel. “This is an escort mission. Once the shuttle is off head back to base, so we may complete another.”

“Yes, sir.” Samuel nodded, and the hologram disappeared. The marines nodded at one another and dispersed.

Toland approached from behind. “Coordinates are set. Let’s prey this will work.”

“I will make sure it does.” Samuel’s reply was less overconfidence but more determined. He had been through many wars and only failed one mission. He wasn’t about to fail again.

The engine revved and the Elephant was in motion. The marines rushed to their post next to the awnings. There were 4 and each side with two marines at each one. The Elephants armor was thick and could withstand a Wraith attack—though not for long. Rocket launchers and Sniper Rifles along with several other weapons where underneath the desk. A few of the marines had already equipped themselves with a few of those ordinances, Samuel on the other hand planned on using the turret if it came to it, until then he equipped himself with the Designated Marksman Rifle.

“You should get this on” Samuel tossed a large bag toward Toland. He bent down and unzipped it to find brand new ODST armor.

“What?” Toland cringed, standing up. “I can’t where that”

“Why not?”

“I’m not an ODST. I haven’t earned that kind of respect.” Toland said.

Samuel straightened his back and nodded. “It’s not your armor that defines you, Agent.” And he turned around as they approached the gate to the next Sector. Toland glanced at the bag and bent down. He touched the metallic chest plate and picked up the helmet looking into it; the visor reflecting his face. He sighed then began putting on the armor.

The gate to Sector 4 opened, dust and morning fog seeped in as the Elephant pressed onward. The aftermath of war was evident. Bodies and vehicles lay everywhere. Most of the cities infrastructure was destroyed and several Covenant patrols scouted the city. It was only a matter of minutes before the Elephant was heard and they were under fire. Marines open fired as Jackals and Grunts charged the vehicle. The enemy was taken out, but a few plasma grenades had already burnt the right side of the vehicle.

“That was close” Toland said. “They could have done more damage.”

“Unlikely.” Samuel added. “Those on the other hand are more of an issue.” He pointed toward the Banshee’s scouting the beaches to the East.

“We’ll leave those to the Captain” Said Toland.

“That might not be an option, we’ll need to stay alert” Samuel asserted.

***

The ride so far was less terrifying than Ethan originally imagined it would be. He noticed the weapon fire and a few faint explosions, but it didn’t seem to faze the Elephant. In all reality Ethan wasn’t even paying much attention. He missed his friends and his old life back at home. He wanted so badly to go back and act as if he never had these dreams, like it was all a lie. But the truth weighed on him; even if he hadn’t said anything the Covenant still would have arrived, and he would most likely be dead along with everyone he knew. Though, knowing Sierra and Josh were still alive filled him with warmth

“Are you ok, hunny?” His mother asked brushing his hair.

“Yeah, I’m fine mom.” He said and leaned on her shoulder.

“You know, I am sorry we were never honest with you about our pasts.”

“It’s fine, really, I think it’s cool having military parents. Plus, you guys always came off a little stern, so I guess I should have known.” He smirked.

“Is that so?” Emily chuckled. Allen glanced over with a partial smile. He was just glad that Ethan was stable and no longer experiencing his ‘episodes’. Though he feared whatever was happening to him was just the beginning. Toland came into view resting his rifle on the holopanel. Ethan noticed he was dressed in ODST gear and was going to comment but refrained when he realized it wasn’t the place nor time for amusement.

“We’re several miles away from any combat so I have time to remind you of what’s to happen once we make it of this rock.”

“I’m listening” Allen replied. Emily and Ethan gave their attention.

“You will be held at the station in orbit before our next wave of frigates arrive. Then you’ll be transported to Earth where you will wait to be relocated on a distant planet.”

“Distant?” Emily’s concern was justified. Earth was the safest place to be…or so she thought.

“Yes,” Toland assured. “When Meridian falls, and it will, there’s only a handful of places the Luminary will lead them; Earth is one of those places. We’ll be relocating you to a distant world away from the conflict in hopes they never find you.”

“Why us?” Ethan asked frustrated. “How many people will be there?” Toland sighed trying to find the right words.

“Look, we’re sending several flights a week to this hidden planet. You won’t be first there nor the last but its far enough from harm that it should be safe.”

“I hope you know what you are doing Kyle.” Said Allen.

Toland’s glanced rested on Allen. “I do.” He asserted. “And I know how important lives are in a time like this. Whatever is happening to Ethan is effecting all of us and might actually hold the key to ending this war.” His words carried weight; the Fosters looked away.

“Distant is the safest place to be.” He added.

“Agent” Samuel raised his voice from the deck above. “Your assistance is required.”

Toland rushed up the stairs to find the second holopanel not operating.

“What happened?”

“The jammer ahead.” Samuel pointed off to side while he reloaded. Roughly 200 yards away was large Covenant device resting on four retractable legs. Like an aura surrounding it, purple light pulsated along with clear waves.

“It needs to be taken out before we can move forward. With those near the launch pads we won’t be able to open the hatches. A loud thud circulated throughout the Elephant as its engines came to a halt.

“I’ll need you to cover, grab that rifle.” He pointed at the Sniper Rifle resting on the wall. Toland reached over grabbing the weapon. As he inspected it, Samuel leaped from the Elephant raising his rifle and scouted. Fog was still in the area and it was most dense toward the hill the jammer rested on. Samuel activated his thermal vision and was greeted with enemies waiting in the mists. “Great” he said.

Toland pulled the Sniper up to his chest. “What’s the problem?”

“Activate your thermal and you’ll see.”

Toland flicked the switch on his helmet immediately activating thermal vision. Four Grunts, two Jackals and two Elites.

“Wow, they really want to keep it operational.” Toland smirked.

“That’s why no one in Command can see Sector 4.” Said Samuel. “With these littered around we don’t have cover because no one can see us.”

Toland’s smile dropped once Samuel pointed that out. He was smart but Samuel’s quick assessments left little room for discussion. He guessed that’s why Samuel’s a Spartan and he was not.

“I’ll get the Elites.” Toland said resting the rifle to his chest.

“Affirmative” Samuel slowly approached the squadron from the West.

Toland raised the rifle for the reticule to rest on the one of the Elites head. The two aliens were talking, most likely about the war and well it was going for them…or so Toland liked to think so. While everything about the war and Meridian active in his mind he flushed it all out and focused on his target. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. When he opened them, the reticule was exactly where he needed it to be and so he pulled the trigger.

Samuel leaned against a broken wall as Toland took off the head to the first Elite. Samuel leaped over the wall and kicked the grunt standing in front of him and then the rest of the squad was alerted. The remaining Elites roared as he charged Samuel knocking him into the wall—obliterating it on impact. Toland took out both Jackals before resting his sights on the Grunt. The Elite towered over Samuel and began to pick him up. Samuel went for a kick to the ribs which it responded with a block and a kick to the face knocking him back several feet. The Elite straightened his back and pulled the Plasma Rifle from his hip. Just before he fired his head busted open as Toland fired the rifle; blood sprayed Samuel’s armor. He wiped his visor and walked to the Covenant Jammer.

It was large. Larger than the ones he was used to seeing. Located near the center of the object where the unique curves of the jammer met was a panel which displayed the activity. Near the bottom right was a red icon Samuel assumed was the “off” button. Rather than risking it he walked around It and located the power supply. He reached around his back, knelt beside the battery and pulled out a grenade. He placed it and raced back to the Elephant. The explosion was loud and pushed away the fog in the area. Direct sunlight passed over the Elephant and Toland deactivated his thermal.

“Well, that was climatic. You good?” Toland smirked.

“I’m fine, just wasn’t expecting the explosion to be that big.” Samuel sighed as he pulled himself up.

“It cleared the fog in the area. We should get moving before someone seeing us.” Just as Toland finished his sentence the engines turned on. The driver gave them a thumbs-up and on the vehicle was moving again. Samuel checked the weapon rack for another DMR and placed it on his back. They were passing through one of the city’s major parks. Several awnings and playsets were seen in the distance as they approached a bank of skyscrapers. While the beach was still visible from the East, South was their destination. Somewhere in there was the Sector 4 bunker housing the Mantis.

“You see that over there?” Toland pointed. Samuel nodded. “That’s where we’re going. The bunker should be two blocks down and three blocks left.”

“Good to know. I’ll keep the pressure on me as you get the Elephant straight to the first gate.”

“I thought we were going together.” Toland added.

“We need to keep the family safe. A handful of marines and an ONI agent won’t hold up against several waves of Covenant.

“And what, all of the sudden you can?”

“I can run.” Samuel said bluntly. Toland glared for a moment. He looked over at the marines as they waited for his word. Technically, Toland wasn’t Samuel’s boss but he gave command to him for some reason. He sighed and nodded.

“Alright. When we get there let me know where you’re headed, and we’ll rendezvous at the gate.”

It was no more than ten minutes before the sun disappeared behind the city towers and the Elephant was encased in the dark mists of the dead city. Bodies, vehicles, and several aliens remains characterized the city. The yellow sunlight was overshadowed by the dense light reflecting the blue sky off the city towers. The Elephant reached the first block and Toland could see for miles. At the end of the Sector light glazed the first gate showing him their destination.

“This is where I get off” Samuel said. He leaped from the edge as the marines pointed their weapons over their awnings. The street was dead, debris littered everywhere as the morning breeze creeped in. Samuel lifted his hand and waved. The Elephant started moving and he walked toward the building in front of him. The bunker was another block down and three blocks to the east. He was going to make a short cut.

Toland sighed as he leaped onto the turret and readied it in case Covenant arrived. The Elephant rode over the left-over vehicles crushing everything beneath it. Toland kept a close eye on his horizons. The marines held their positions scanning every corner they could see. Ethan was still beneath with his parents. They kept quiet most likely praying Toland thought. He trusted that Ethan was important. If everything the Caretaker had said about Ethan in that Luminary was true, then he was possibly the most important person he had ever known. Plus, his premonitions gave Meridian a fighting chance. He’s a hero whether he sees that or not.

Suddenly, a flicker of light coming from a few stories up on the left building shined on Toland. He immediately ducked as particle beam burned into the driver’s cab. He pulled the turret to his left, aimed high and fired into the skyscraper.

** **

Samuel rushed through the hotel mezzanine and into the stairwell. He leapt up each floor until he reached the 6th and then kicked open the door. He found himself running down a narrow hallway; its maroon encased walls complimented the black and silver carpeting. Most of the rooms were open with clothes and beds scattered. There weren’t any signs of enemy fire, so it must have been people who raided these rooms. They must have hoped to find something, anything, to use to save themselves. They were wrong. He turned right down the hall and Samuel was squared with a Brute. Before it could react, Samuel wrapped his hands around its head and then snapped it. The Brute dropped to the floor sending a rumble down the hall. Samuel looked up to find a Brute Chieftain along with two other Brutes at the end of the hall facing him; their roar vibrated the walls. He leaped to the left into one of the rooms dodging incoming fire. He looked around as footsteps neared and decided to go through the walls. Punching through the dry wall he pulled himself into the next room. One of the Brutes had passed him but the second had stopped and was facing him. It roared and fired its Spiker. Several spikes penetrated the hotel walls as Samuel slid next to the bed. He tossed the mattress at the alien and dropped kicked the Brute through the wall. The other Brute burst through the same hole Samuel came out of and grabbed him. It through Samuel into the hall sending him into another room. Unphased, he jumped to his feet where he was face to face with the Chieftain. He slid his foot back. It swung its hammer and Samuel leaping backward then kicked himself of the wall slamming into the Chieftain to stumble a few feet. But then it lifted its foot and kicked Samuel in stomach.

The blow was hard and unexpected, he thought he has staggered the Brute, but he only made it mad. Of course, he remembered his time on Solemn of Penance. The Chieftain huffed, bringing his chest up as he pulled his hammer to waist level and stepped toward Samuel who was on his hands and knees trying to breath. To the corner of his eye, Samuel saw a flash of light as the sun was setting, its light reflecting through the bedroom window. He kept still not wanting to set the Brute on alert and waited until his weakness showed. The Chieftain roared and lifted its hammer above it head. Samuel looked up and swung his legs around kicking the beast in its side. It stumbled back and slammed against the bedroom window breaking in in the process. Giving the Chieftain no time to react Samuel lunged tackling the Brute through the wall. The two of them were in free fall as Samuel held onto it. They twirled in the air as Samuel locked his armor before they hit the ground. Every bone in the Chieftain’s body gave way as Samuel landed on top of hit bouncing off immediately. The beast let out its last breath.

Samuel rolled over unlocking his armor and stood up. The streets were empty. He looked around for any signs of life and he couldn’t see anything. He turned on his night vision and proceeded east through the vehicles cautiously. He knew the Elephant was a block and half ahead of him and he would have to make sure he stood on his feet the whole time if he wanted to catch up. The bunker was coming into view and nobody was around. Bodies blanked the street surrounding the entrance of the complex. It was clear the UNSC infantry were defending it to the last soldier. Leaping over a burning vehicle he scanned the area noticing the entrance was blasted away by plasma. He touched the burnt metal and rubbed his fingers; it wasn’t recent either. He looked down the dark hall leading into the main lobby but couldn’t see anything but darkness.

“Looks like the Covenant found it, General.” He whispered.

For a moment he decided whether to abort the objective and go to the Elephant but quickly went against it and turned on his flashlight. Several human weapons were scattered on the ground. He picked up a silenced SMG, checked for rounds then moved forward. Written on the cement wall read VEHICLE OUTPOST SECTOR 4: TOP SECRET CLEARENCE