Chapter Three

Meridian,

In the Mountains East of Virgo City

March 26th, 2548

1923 hours

The engine revved as it climbed the grass hill toward an old fort. The warthog came to a complete stop dragging it tires in the loose dirt. Toland hopped out grabbing his satchel. The fort was old. The walls had holes and the metal trimming around it was rusting. A trespass sign was hanging on its side but still attached to the fence post surrounding the unit. This was an old hideout when the settlers first came here in 2490. While they fought and eventually settled Virgo, this was one of the main infrastructures used by many UNSC and ONI personal. Deep underneath the fort was a one of the several hidden ONI hideouts throughout all of Meridian. For obvious reasons, mainly for the people defending humanity with their lives, ONI made sure these hideouts stayed secret or else civil war would ensue and that would be unfortunate for a planet on the Covenants hit list.

Toland reached for the gate. It creaked as he quickly walked through and closed it behind him. He reached into his satchel, pulled out his ID card and swiped it against what looked to be an old ID pad. Lights flickered and the ONI symbol lite up. The door from which Toland stood in front of opened inward slightly. He kicked the door and it fully opened. He walked in and the door behind him closed just as slow as it opened. The bunker lights flickered and turned on. White walls made the light seem brighter than it was. Toland walked down the halls past several old rooms once used by ONI officials before stopping at the elevator he was looking for. There you are. He said to himself. He pushed the button and doors opened. He walked inside and pressed the basement floor button. As he rode the elevator all he could think about was what Ethan had said earlier. Arbiter. Holy One. Luminary. He knew the names but didn’t understand how Ethan knew them or what he associated them with. Toland knew Arbiter was a type of rank within the Covenant but it wasn’t until tonight that he began to question what ONI knew about their enemy. It was apparent that the names Ethan gave him were significant or how else would he know of them. It’s not like the Covenant march into war expressing what rank they are let alone their name.

He rubbed his chin deep in thought as the elevator shaft opened into a large facility. Bridges interlinked adjacent to each room they extended from. White and grey translucent windows made most of the rooms seem exposed but it was to keep everyone from getting distracted. ONI was very formal about their work ethic. You either knew what you were doing and had something to do or someone else would find something for you to do. If you were reluctant to help you kept to yourself until directed otherwise. This facility and those like it operated almost in sync, everyone had a goal and you were more determined than the person next to you or else you didn’t fit. For Toland it was a load of crap. ONI was secret and very efficient, he’d give them that, but aside from the formal gestures and more than dangerous endeavors it was just another desk job.

Toland stepped away from the elevator and turned around to find the whole facility motionless. Blushingly, he smiled and walked toward the Director’s office at the top of the stairs. The elevator disengaged and lifted back up toward the bunk, it was the only noise aside from Toland walking up stairs. As he reached the office people slowly went back to work but the glaring didn’t cease. The office door slid closed so smoothly that if you weren’t looking or weren’t used to it you wouldn’t have even noticed. Standing next to the observation window of the facility was a thick, balding, white haired man, Colonel Donald William Gear. He was in control of ONI on Meridian. He was one of the view Colonels to work for both UNSC and ONI, though he never sided toward one or the other, which separated him from most people. Still, he had a boss to report to so decisions weren’t always his to make, especially when it came to Toland.

“Is there a good reason why you used the Bunker to get down here?” He asked slightly amused. “Yes, sir. I needed to pass information about my investigation.”

“You mean the shit-storm you’ve riled up with everyone within our department; don’t tell me, you found something to these—dreams or whatever the hell you want to call them.” He gestured angrily pointing sporadically. Toland dropped his head and nodded. “As a matter of fact, I have names.”

“Names?” Colonel Gear asked looking back at Toland. “What kind of names?”

“The Arbiter is one.” Said Toland. Gear rubbed his head and sat down. “We are aware of the Arbiter, why is this relevant Kyle?” he yelled. Toland grabbed a chair at sat across from the Colonel.

“I went to see a child today, a boy named Ethan, that experienced a seizure while at school.” Toland began, the Colonel listening intently. “He was in the middle of a fight with another student when he suddenly stiffened and fell flat on his back. While on the floor his eyes bulged and he spoke rapidly, sounding like a recording or something. I know, I watched the footage.”

“Get to the point” the Colonel interrupted. Toland continued. “When I spoke to the counselor, she informed me that Ethan has done this before except he woke up 5 minutes later. This time he was out for almost 10 hours.”

“Kyle” The Colonel said, unenthusiastically. Toland scooted toward the desk, leaning against it. “I gave the child photographs of the events I’ve gathered and cities on potential planets. He recognized one of them and he tried to remember but it he began seizing again. But before I left I recorded this.” Toland rolled his sleeve up and a hologram lifted from the device on his arm. He stood waving his hand over the hologram and it played. “Arbiter! The Holy One! Luminary!” Ethan’s voiced echoed throughout the room. The recording ended and the Colonel was left baffled. “Has anyone heard this?” He asked Toland after a moment.

“Other than the doctors and his parents; I came straight here.” Toland looked at the Colonel for reassurance but as time passed he was becoming worried nothing would come of this.

“Sir, The Holy One represents the Prophets which are the Covenant leaders. As far as we know, there could be hundreds of them, so we don’t really have a number but the Arbiter.” Toland sighed. “the Arbiter seems to be a mercenary of some sort. They usually are Sangheili but only work on the field during important missions so it’s wise to assume they would be searching for a Luminary.” The Colonel was in deep thought leaning back in his chair. Toland stood, reached in his satchel and pulled out the picture Ethan had recognized and placed it on the Colonels desk. “This is what he was looking at.”

“Harmony? Here?” The Colonel stood in disbelief. “Jesus, Kyle.” Toland was becoming impatient, knowing full heartedly how much of a long shot it sounded. “Sir, I know what you think. But I’ve done the research. The dreams happened in the exact order the planets were attacked, it’s that enough to at least be cautious.

“Cautious, yes,” The Colonel announced. “But coming in here saying Meridian is going to be attacked by the Covenant and the only proof you have is a child’s dream and a Luminary isn’t very convincing.” Toland put his head down. Gear was right, no way would anyone outside ONI ever hear this. Gear wasn’t his boss. Toland only answered to higher personal stationed outside Meridian but the Colonel oversaw the base. If he didn’t agree than nothing was to be done.

“I can’t just order half the UNSC fleet to station outside a planet like Meridian without solid proof that something is happening.” The Colonel paused a moment. “Look, Kyle, you’re one of my best Agents and I trust you but we need to be more realistic here. If you really believe Meridian is in danger bring me something more concrete than a premonition.” Even though he sounded sincere, Toland knew the Colonel felt sorry for him. Toland wasn’t in it for the fame and no one seemed to understand that. He wanted to see the Covenant hindered, on their knee’s begging for mercy. The premonitions were the only way he thought he would get the upper hand, after all how could they be consistent for over a decade?

Toland reached his desk and planted himself in his chair then put his head down. Everything going on was overwhelming. The dreams, the war, the life back on Reach he left behind. He left everything behind to figure out a plan to catch the Covenant surprised. And now that he’s found a child who could answer his questions he’s too unstable to even talk. Toland felt he only made things worse. A knocked sounded at his door and it slid open. Standing in the doorway was a thin redhead dressed in a skirt, Rachel Hoss. She was one of his old classmates at Asus University on Reach. She was in the top of the class always answering the questions and acing every test, she was truly brilliant. After a year, she ended up transferring into Defense Engineering once the UNSC were starting to declare the Covenant to be unstoppable. He remembered what she said to him the day she graduated at the top of her class; “If the Covenant are unstoppable then I’ll have to find a way for us to be immovable.” And she wasn’t wrong. Her program; Orbital Defense Grid Operation: Veronica proved successful in 2535 when Jericho VII was invaded. Her defense grid, comprising of several frigates and other orbital MAC stations, kept the Covenant from glassing the planet for 3 full months. It was one of the most successful defenses ever pulled off in the Human-Covenant War. That fact that Hoss was standing in his office meant that she had discovered something relevant to his investigation since she supposed to be keeping Reach safe.

“There you are” Hoss said enthusiastically. Most people mistaken her joyfulness with optimism. Rachel was quite the opposite. She second guessed mostly everything. Unless you have concrete proof to back up your theory she would tear you apart with questions and accusations to the point you would think her a pessimist. But that’s who she is; you either know what you’re talking about or you don’t talk at all. That’s why Toland felt they got along so well.

“Rachel” Toland lifted his head and nodded. “I’m assuming you have good news?”

“Is there ever such a thing with ONI?” She smirked as she sat lightly across from him. Toland smiled.

“I’ve found a child here in Virgo who has a history of stirring up his community with premonitions of Meridian being glassed by the Covenant.” Hoss laid out her folder on Toland’s desk revealing pictures and reports from several districts. Toland surveyed though them, nodding as he did so.

“Yes, I spoke with Ethan and his family already. Does Luminary sound familiar to you?” Hoss looked appalled.

“Really, you think one is here?” Hoss sat forward.

“I don’t, he does.” Toland tapped on Ethan’s picture. He pulled out the picture Ethan recognized and handed it to Hoss.

“Ethan believes this to be the location of the Luminary. He was looking at this before he had another seizure.” Regret was present in his voice and Hoss caught on. She stared intently into the photos until it clicked.

“Oh! That’s why it’s so familiar.” She said spreading out the pictures until she held up a picture of the Hemorrhage Hills located on the outskirts of Harmony.

“For the past week or so, people have reported earthquakes coming from these hills. Most people are saying its UNSC testing projects, so everyone’s turned a blind eye but the last time I checked Meridian isn’t a testing facility.” Hoss remarked with a smirk.

Toland tried to hide his passion for her defectiveness but it was given away when she blushed. He realized he was staring at her and blinked, looking back at the photo.

“So, how is Ethan linked to this Luminary?”

“I’m not sure. His family doesn’t travel much so I’m not understanding how he’s even aware of what Harmony looks like--given that it on the other side of the planet.” Hoss stood gathering her reports and putting them back in the envelope. “What’s even more intriguing is how ONI isn’t aware of what is in those hills.” Toland nodded, also intrigued. He had never given the Hemorrhage Hills much thought. They were nicknamed Hemorrhage because the kept floods clear of Harmony. It was something that kept the farmers and industrials happy. ONI and the UNSC, despite what most people on Meridian thought, left the planet alone for the people. UNSC was focused on expanding outer colonies and establishing bases to keep up with the destruction while ONI only cared about finding safe planets to retreat to. You would think that ONI would survey the planet before establishing it as a home. Toland’s curiosity grew; maybe they did.

“We’ll need to keep this under wraps. I don’t want Colonel Gear finding out nor anyone else.” Toland stood. Sierra glanced at him. “Of course, are we going to Harmony?”

“You bet we are” Toland smiled.

One of the many things that attracted tourists to Meridian was the train system which stretched the entire globe. At least 12 different trains, enclosed in clear tubes, traveled off a magnetic system that allowed the trains to reach 600mph. Even at the high speeds the trains could slow down in time to reach their destination. Since they couldn’t derail or crash into another train the only issue would be if the tube compartments disconnected somehow, which was unheard of. Of course, Rachel knew all about how they operated.

“It’s fascinating, isn’t it?” Hoss asked Toland, looking around, admiring the passion and heavy planning that went into building one of the fastest ways to travel across planet.

“Yeah, it’s definitely something. I’m surprised something like this is located on a planet like Meridian.” Toland looked out his window watching the train cross the ocean.

The sun set in the distance and the stars were becoming visible. He couldn’t deny that it was beautifully terrifying. Hoss leaned back in her seat and opened her tablet. Toland noticed and thought of starting conversation but only could think about Ethan and all the questions he had for him. A part of Toland felt guilty for leaving on such terms but another part of him believed it was for the greater good. If he could manage preparation of a Covenant invasion then Ethan’s life and possibly everyone else’s on Meridian could be saved. That, ultimately, was more important to him.

Harmony became visible in the distance. Its skyline was lite up the dusk sky. The city was sleepless. Full of Raids and bars, the city was notorious for its gangs and rebellions. The police and UNSC did their best to keep the violence, sex and drugs within the city but even they were corrupt. Harmony kept to its self for the most part but every now and then the city’s economy would hit rock bottom and the partying would stop. Toland liked to call those times “the Hangover”. He found it amusing because for a week people would just work and sleep and so of course, the bars and strip clubs would suffer causing everyone to freak out and the mad rush would start again. Within another week, the city was back to its restlessness. The last time the city had that happen was well over 2 years ago, so Toland felt they were in time for another.

“Harmony, the craziest place on Meridian.” Hoss remarked, brushing her hair to the side. “I’m glad we won’t be spending much time here” She stated, looking at Toland, who knew she was asking him.

“If the Luminary is here, I’ll be staying to see if we can get inside. From there I have no idea how long it will take.”

“Can’t you just leave the thorough searching for the people paid to do it?” Hoss asked.

Toland’s eyebrow raised. “Why does it matter?”

“I would prefer you come with me to Reach and inform Dr. Halsey of our discovery. If we get her support it would help tremendously.” Hoss said expressionless.

“I thought you hated Halsey? And why would she ever listen to me? I’m “expendable” remember?” Toland said, slightly irritated.

“Yes, but she has the knowledge we need to activate the Luminary.” Hoss turned, facing Toland. “Kyle, if we jump into this blind, which we are, then we could possibly put this whole planet in danger. If the Luminary really is here then she would know what to do with that. As for me, I’ll get back to Sevenfold Gates, make sure my defense grid is up and inform Captain Persie. Maybe he could get more frigates to defend Meridian. If my plan works out accordingly, it could give time to evacuate most of the planet.”

“How long do you think we’d have?” Toland asked.

“Hard to say. If it’s not a large fleet we would destroy them before they could even reach the planet. If it’s a large fleet we could possibly surround them holding them off for several hours but I'm confident that only a handful of Covenant would make it to the surface. From there it we would have to see."

“Ethan mentioned the Arbiter and the Holy One as well so plan on a major fleet.” Toland said, guilty for not bringing it up earlier. Hoss leaned her head to the side as if she was going to comment on that but decided against it and continued with the conversation.

“Yeah, if we’re talking about a Prophet and his fleet then we might be in trouble.” She shook her head as the announcement of their arrival at Harmony played over the intercom. “Like I said, it depends on if we can surround their fleet. Regardless of the size.” Toland stood along with Hoss and several others as they followed one another off the train.

“The attack could be within a matter of days or weeks.” He said as he stepped off the train. "Let's hope for the latter." They were in the Northern Sector of the city. Like Virgo, Harmony was divided in sections and basically designed and operated the same way except rich folk and partiers mainly ran the city. The worst place to be with in the East Sector where most of the rape and violence took place. Tall building rose in the distance blocking the evening sun. Toland felt the night’s breeze roll up his back and through his hair. As the train left the station, he looked North toward Hemorrhage Hills. The grass plains stretched far across the land like waves in a sea. Each hill reflected the sunlight with a neon green seeming artificial. There was no doubt that Meridian was a beautiful.

Toland rented a civilian Warthog and the two of them began their ascent into the hills. Every second they got closer to the top of plains Toland felt more uneasy about what they would find. A part of him wanted to discover the Luminary and another part of him wanted to run as far away as possible, afraid that whatever he might find here could be something more than what he stood for. Hoss leaned out the vehicle tracking the ridge with her tablet. It scanned various mounds as they drove past. Bouncing off the satellites in orbit the device mapped the entire region of the hills until it made a noise.

“What is that? A metal detector?” Toland asked.

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“Why, yes, actually.” Hoss gloomed. “It’s one of Halsey's inventions that I borrowed when I was on Reach. That’s how she’s been discovering Forerunner artifacts. It uses satellite gamma rays to find irregularities in the plants crust, mainly excessive amounts of metal and electrical fields. Usually you will find both since most of the structures she’s located were in hibernation.”

“You borrowed it.” Toland nodded. “Yeah she’s going to listen to us now.” He said under his breath. Hoss ignored him.

“We’re close, just on the other side of this mound.” She said.

The Warthog roared as Toland pushed the gas to cross the top; dirt and grass were picked up from the tires. On the other side of the mound was a flat pain that stretched for a few hundred yards. Across from them near the cliffside were two large rocks leaning on one another. Foliage draped over the ledges masking the triangular shape. Hoss sat forward noticing the strangeness. Toland could take his eyes away. The Luminary couldn’t be here, this is too obvious. Even if you weren’t looking for something in these hills there’s no way you could see this rock formation and not think it unnatural. Toland stopped the Warthog at the base of the rocks and turned the engine off. Hoss slowly lifted herself from the vehicle baffled at the dark cave beneath the rocks. The two of them exchanged looks until they both decided to move forward. The sun was just past the horizon changing the visage of the formation. Toland removed his flashlight from his belt and lit up the cave. The grass lead all the way toward the rock wall which seemed forged, artificial. He touched the rock curious to see if it felt real. It did.

“There is definitely something unnatural about this place.” Said Toland, pulling his hand away from the rock and rubbing his fingers together. Hoss walked toward the back wall where she located a small rock bugling from the center. She touched the rock, running her hands along it sharp edges. She looked at the wall expecting something to happen but nothing did. Her tablet beeped again and she looked down at it noticing a red light emitting from its sensor. Curious, Hoss lifted the tablet, pointing it at the wall. Her tablet displayed intricate metal interior workings behind the rock for several miles.

“Kyle.” She breathed. “It’s here.” Toland blinked, distracted by the humming he thought he was hearing. He walked toward Hoss looking at her tablet. To the bottom left where the rock bulged was a panel. Hoss slowly moved the sensor over the rock and the red light seemed to penetrate. A loud moan sounded from the wall in front of them as the rock broke away revealing a metallic doorway. The panel slid out from the wall displaying several shapes and symbols neither Hoss or Toland were familiar with.

“What did you steal form Halsey?” Toland asked, still awing at their discovery. Hoss replied frozen is the same state. “Her Archon program that detects Forerunner architecture.”

“This is the Luminary.” Hoss breathed, lost in her thoughts.

“No. What’s inside is the Luminary.”

“We should notify Halsey.” Hoss reminded Toland, grabbing his arm. “She needs to see this.”

Toland removed Hoss’s hand and touched the cold metal. He was fascinated by the Forerunners craftsmanship and their attention to detail. Each crevasse and flat panel was touched with such intricacy that would take humanity years to recreate something so simple as this entrance. Toland could only imagine what laid inside.

“Kyle, we need to go.” Hoss insisted. Disrupted by her determination, Toland looked back at her and nodded. “Yeah, are you even sure Halsey will hear what we have to say?” He asked. Hoss brushed her hair to the side looking at her tablet. “I’m certain the program notified her. Its sending information to Reach. Toland threw Hoss a hard glance, somewhat afraid. “You mean that’s transmitting data over the galactic channel into Reach?” Toland grabbed Hoss who was just as shocked as he was.

“Yes—I guess, I don’t understand why. This program was encrypted, I had to break in. How could I miss something like this?” Hoss grabbed her head confused and scared. Toland looked out into the midnight sky. If the Covenant are out there, they would pick up on the signal indicating human civilization. Even more terrifying, it would reveal their exact location on Meridian. They needed to move and fast. Toland rushed for the Warthog and turned on the ignition.

“Rachel, let’s go!” He yelled. Hoss was still locked in a trance, confused and upset that she wasn’t careful enough. Halsey would know Hoss stole her program and was probably notifying authorities. She couldn’t believe she had been caught it had never happened before. Toland drove toward her and honked breaking her concentration. Hoss jumped in the passenger seat and threw her tablet in the center console.

“How the hell could I be so stupid.” She hissed.

“You stole a program from one of the most secretive people in the galaxy and you didn’t think she had a beacon built inside?” Toland said, harshly.

“No, Kyle, it wasn’t hard breaking into it. Usually when someone builds a program like that they place several locks inside preventing hackers but I broke into it within minutes so I assumed she wasn’t using it anymore.”

“Well, you’re wrong and have probably put everyone on this planet in danger.” Toland said revving the engine.

The pilot for the ONI Falcon was standing outside smoking. Hoss hid her face feeling guilt but swallowed it down and did her best to keep posure.

“That’s if the Covenant are near. There’s a chance they’re not and there’s a chance they are.” Said Hoss.

“We need to act as if they are.” Toland glanced at her as he stopped the Warthog. He leaped from the vehicle and notified they pilot of their departure.

“Get us to Sevenfold Gates, now.” Toland insisted. The pilot nodded. “Yes, sir. Buckle up.” And he jumped in the pilot’s seat then started the engine. Hoss followed Toland onto the Falcon and strapped on her belt. Both side doors closed and air released from all sided indicating the cabin was decompressing. The Falcon lifted fast and began its ascent. Hoss clearly looked frustrated as she was concentrated on her tablet, swiping through files, trying her best to keep the frequency hidden from other responders. Toland’s gut turned at the thought of the Covenant arriving at Meridian. He was so sure he could prevent another attack if he knew ahead of time where they would strike next but even now he was beginning to question if fate was in control. The Falcon pushed through Meridians atmosphere as it rocked. The UNSC Sevenfold Gates was stationed at Anchor 7 which sat above Meridians northern hemisphere in between the moon and Hestia V, the gas giant. The orange contrast on black space gave the Frigate and station an orange tint. The Falcons boosters pulsated and the cabin began to decompress as it passed through the energy shield. Once the craft landed Hoss lifted her head.

“It’s done. The message is encrypted.” Hoss breathed a sigh of relief.

“Let’s hope it hasn’t already made things worse.” Toland replied unstrapping himself. The doors slid open and Toland stepped into the hanger, followed by Hoss. Anchor 7 was larger than Toland remembered. It had only been a few years and yet he felt like this was the first time he had been on this facility. The light blue and grey walls gave the place a fresh, new feeling but was unsupported by the emptiness feeling when you noticed the lack of people working here. Up above, on the observation desk was Anchor 7’s Captain Brenan, an elderly man who had seen a lot of battles but it didn’t show. He looked 20 years younger than he was. He stood there, at the window, waiting patiently with a stern look on his face. Toland’s expression dropped as he headed toward the stairs. The door slid open and Brenan spoke first.

“What is an ONI agent doing on my station without authorization?” He asked, still holding composure.

“Sir--Captain. We have information regarding a possible attack on Meridian.”

“On what grounds, Agent.”

“Toland, Sir, Kyle Toland. This is Rachel Hoss, she-“

“Designed the Inner Colony Defense Network, I’m aware of her expertise, Toland.” Brenan grew impatient.

Toland said. “I’m a Forensic Specialist that has been studying the glassing of Human Colonies for the past 6 years. My investigation has been focused on both discoveries by the Covenant and the possible belief that a premonition could prevent Meridians glassing.” Brenan looked at his staff and then back to Toland.

“Excuse us.” Brenan ordered. His staff left rather quickly. “Darrien” Brenan said and an AI appeared over her template. “Sir?”

“Have Captain Persie meet us at the observation deck immediately.”

“Yes, Captain.” Darrien said then she faded. Brenan stared at Toland and Hoss intently. He paced around for a moment and then decided to speak.

“Explain to me how you believe a premonition could save Meridian?” He asked. Toland wasn’t sure if Brenan was seriously interested in his work or if he wanted to humiliate him but figured he could do his best to make sense of it all.

“A child had vision months ago talking about Meridian being attacked, he was very thorough is his description. This morning Ethan had another one except this time he was able to identify a city he has never been to and managed to get names referring to what ONI believes are Covenant hierarchs.” Toland rolled up his sleeve and played the recording. Again, Ethan’s voice echoed throughout the room. Brenan’s expression was fixed. It hadn’t changed the entire time Toland and Hoss had been in the room. This made Toland uneasy, he wasn’t sure what the Captain would think of all of this let alone the actions Persie would take if he heard it. The door closed behind Toland and Hoss and the recording ended, the two of them turned around to find Persie standing in the room. He stood at about 6ft and had a broad chest. His grey hair was barely noticeable underneath his cap. His hands were clenched at his side. He didn’t look happy.

“What’s the meaning of this?” He asked walking toward Brenan.

“Agent Kyle Toland, and Dr. Rachel Hoss believe Meridian may be a target from the Covenant. Based on the recording Toland just played I’m curious to see why he’s here and not reporting to ONI Command.” Brenan said, leaning against the window, both him and Persie looking at Toland for an answer.

“Luminary is a place, I’m sure because Hoss and I have found its location using the same photograph Ethan recognized in the hospital. We need to send an excavation team and figure out what’s down there.”

“Sir, If you don’t mind me speaking,” Hoss stepped forward brushing Toland on the arm; he stepped back.

“Go ahead.” Persie said, folding his arms.

“Every planet the Covenant glassed housed many Forerunner structures. ONI believes that they’re after these artifacts. Dr. Catherine Elizabeth Halsey is aware of these discoveries and has built a program that can locate them. Using her program, we located what we believe to be the Luminary.” She said, handing over her tablet to the Captain. “Based on her data, the Luminary could potentially lead the Covenant to other Forerunner sites, which would most likely lead them to other Human worlds.”

“Which is why they have been so lucky finding us.” Toland added.

Persie handed the tablet to Brenan and walked toward the observation window. Brenan stood, setting down the tablet and joined Persie. The two of them whispered for a few moments. Toland couldn’t think clearly. He was so sure about his work that he would follow it his death. The Covenant must be coming to Meridian and it was only a matter of time until they arrived. He forced himself to believe this and in return he felt like he was going mad, an obsession he gladly embraced.

“Toland,” Persie began. “Head to ONI Command in Virgo and report back to Colonel Gear, let him know of this discovery and have him meet with me here.” Toland nodded. “Yes, sir.”

“Hoss,” He turned to face her. “Alert UEG and get Meridians Defense grid up and running. Make sure every station is full in case the Covenant arrive. They need to be aware of any slip-space event within the Hestia-V System. From this point on we’ll operate under RED Flag.” Persie finished and saluted. Toland and Hoss saluted as well and left the observation deck.

“They took that rather well.” Hoss smiled as she walked across the hall. Toland stopped at the stairs heading toward the Falcon. “They did indeed.” He smirked. “Operation RED FLAG is top secret, I’m aware of it because ONI designed the program but does he believe we could capture a Prophet?” Toland asked Hoss. She studied him for a moment, realizing he was serious and then approached him with a slight smile.

“You’ve convinced two Captains that Meridian could be attacked by the Covenant based off a child’s dream and now you’re questioning whether we, no, Humanity could capture a Prophet if we were prepared, which we are.” Hoss laughed. “You’re cute, Kyle.” Then she walked through the doors and they shut behind her.

“You’re sure about this.” Brenan asked Persie as they watched Toland leave on the Falcon. Persie rubbed his chin. “There’s been theories circulating the UNSC for decades now talking about the Covenant searching for things on our planets.” He said, nodding toward Meridian. “If ONI believes for a second that something vital the Covenant wants is on this planet then I'll believe it.”

Brenan stared out the window thinking about the war and everything that had been sacrificed. This was by far the most bizarre meeting he had with an ONI agent but at the same time ONI was never known to be full of “normal” people. If anything, they worked under everyone’s skin whether you liked it or not and most of the time they had good reason to. If Meridian truly was hiding away an artifact that the Covenant were after, ONI would be the first to know.

“We should notify the Admiral and have him send fleets our way.” Brenan spoke softly. “Inconspicuously, of course.” He smiled at Persie who in return smiled back.

A cold breeze brushed Ethan’s skin and he opened his eyes. White light blinded him for a moment but as his eyes adjusted he realized he was in a hospital room lying on a bed. Ethan looked around not seeing or hearing anyone. His arms and legs felt like rubber and he was slightly nauseas. Movement came from his left; the curtain window flapped in the morning light as the breeze reached Ethan a second time. It was fresh, cool breeze, that carried the spring air except with it came a voice. “Ethan.” The female voice whispered. His eyes stared hard at the window. He wasn’t sure what to think or feel all he knew was that he wanted out of the bed and so he sat up. Suddenly, his blanket was gone and he wasn’t strapped to any monitors. Now he was standing at the window, outside he could see that city. The streets were empty and he was now standing in the middle of the street, his gown waved in the breeze.

The sun beat down on him, the heat seemed unnatural. He lifted his hand blocking the sun and began to feel dizzy. He collapsed to his hands and knees now realizing he was no longer in the middle of downtown Virgo, instead, he was on all fours in brunt ash that covered his hands. He lifted them and the ash fell off. In the distance, he heard someone yell and moved his head toward the direction he thought it came from. Ethan was surrounded by burnt trees each one identical to the other. As he whipped his head around confused and scared, he was starting to think he was losing his mind. He tried to yell but couldn’t hear his voice. He knew he was yelling because he could feel his vocal cords vibrating but he heard nothing but vibrations. Then he noticed the vibrations wasn’t from him. Up above was a Covenant Cruiser glassing the field down the mountain in front of him. A second one appeared behind him and then a third to his left and a fourth to his right. The vibrations became so intense Ethan pulled his hands up to his ears begging for it to stop. His eyes began to water and he was no longer able to see clearly. He felt like he was dying as his body rattled against the ash covered ground. Then the pain stopped.

Ethan lied there, still, eyes closed. “I want to go home” He said to himself but didn’t hear his voice. “I know, you do.” The female voice said, this time her voice was calm and soothing, almost as if it was healing him slowly. Ethan felt light over his eyes but chose to keep them closed. “Who are you?” He asked, this not hearing his voice.

“I’m here for you” She said, closer. “I will guide you, Ethan, hang in there. Please, you’re my only hope.” Her voice overwhelmed Ethan with such emotion tears began to stream down his face. Her voice was so unique, like an angel touching his soul. All he could think of was being in her arms and never letting go.

“I want to show you something.” She said touching his hands.

Ethan opened his eyes and could only see white light. He looked down seeing nothing but felt the softest of hands pulling him upward. Suddenly, he was standing in a cold metallic room. The ceiling was several hundred feet high and he was surrounded by ancient technology. It felt familiar.

“Is this the Luminary?” he asked, clearly hearing his voice. It startled him.

“Yes, you remember.” She said, her voice echoing throughout the room as if she was the room.

“What is it?” He asked.

“A map.” she replied.

“What does it show”

“Everything.”

The room brightened as the middle console lit up with overwhelming light. Projections of planets and rings and other abstract constructs filled the entire room with the perfect shade of blue. Ethan, in complete puzzlement, reached outward to touch one of the holograms of a ring and it weaved in between his fingers separating into particles then regaining shape as it continued to circle the room.

“The Luminary is in grave danger of being discovered, Ethan.” She said, becoming increasingly clearer. “We don’t have much time. Find Kyle Mathew Toland and Rachel Ann Hoss. They have the means to prevent such a tragedy.” Ethan immediately knew who she was referring to. He fought the urge to question her but felt as if she someone wanted him to.

“I have questions” He said looking around, starting to feel colder and slightly afraid.

“You may ask”

“Why is the Covenant after the Luminary?”

“They’re guided by a race who wants power” She replied ever so calmly.

“How can two people possibly stop them from finding this?” He asked looking for the source of her voice.

“Their will is strong, I can feel it. All they have to do is believe and it can be done.”

Ethan was unsuccessful; he began to feel alone and confused. He had so many question but he couldn’t understand her answers which had nothing to do with how she answered his questions. There was an undesirable urge to question whether her answers spoke the truth; completely believing her more than he believed anything but didn’t understand what they meant. He tried to fight the nausea but was failing, he collapsed to one knee and vomited on the metal floor, his eyes watering.

“I don’t know what to do” He breathed.

“Give me time. Do anything you can to give me time.” She replied seeming hasty.

“I can’t!” Ethan panicked, beginning to cry. “I can’t even stand let alone trust or believe anything that happens outside of whatever this is!” Ethan laid on the floor holding his stomach feeling all kinds of pain. His head throbbed and vibrated to the rhythm of his heartbeat. His body shook due to his stomach cramps and the coolness of the floor and his chest was heavy as if he was breathing in the smallest amount of air possible. Then, suddenly, he was fine. No pain, no hunger, no thought. Ethan lay motionless on the floor with his eyes closed.

“Is this how you feel?” He asked not knowing what to believe.

“I feel everything and so can you.” She said as if she was lying beside him. “I will amend your wounds and give you the strength to fulfil the task set before you. Find the ONI agent and his friend, Dr. Hoss. Make them understand and give me time.”

“I will—“Ethan paused wanting to call her mother. “What do I call you?”

She chuckled. Ethan didn’t believe until know that she could show emotion. “2701 Clandestine Ascent. But you can call me Ascent.”

Slowly Ethan’s vision came into view as if his eyelids burned away. He was staring out into the same hospital room he thought he woke up in what felt like a lifetime ago. Sitting beside him was his parents. His father was asleep with his head kinked to the side and his mother was up right staring into Ethan’s eyes now realizing he was awake.

“Ethan, honey, can you hear me?” Emily asked, getting up to touch his hands. Ethan felt the warmth of her hands and then a sudden rush of relief coursed throughout his body. He blinked several times feeling wide awake and full of energy.

“Yeah, I can. Can I get up?” He asked moving his shoulders.

“I wouldn’t, Hun, you’ve been out for a couple of days. I think its best that you rest.” She said pressing her hand on his chest. Ethan’s father woke up and immediately stood over Ethan.

“Are you alright, Son?” Allen asked putting his hand on Emily’s back.

“Yes, actually.” Ethan began sliding himself upward despite his mother’s efforts to stop him. “I feel fine.” He ran through his thoughts remembering his dream. Accent, is what she called herself. He remembered the Luminary and the objects it displayed. They were locations of Forerunner constructs. Ethan surely didn’t understand how he knew that but deep down something told him he couldn’t be wrong.

“Where’s Agent Toland?” He asked looking at the chair he was last sitting in. Emily and Allen exchanged looks. Ethan could feel the tension and guessed that he didn’t leave on great terms with his parents.

“Why do you need to know where he is?” Emily asked.

“I need to tell him about the Luminary.” Ethan replied.

“What?” Allen announced. He paced around the room for a moment, Ethan watched his every move. “Enough about this “Luminary” nonsense. Do you not even understand that we thought you were going to die?” he yelled. This was the first time Ethan had seen fear in his fathers eyes. Fear was understandable because Ethan felt himself but it was for an entirely different reason. Sure, he was concerned about his wellbeing and even parents, god only knows what they went through the entire time he was out but deep down a reassurance settle within Ethan. He couldn’t quiet figure it out but for the first time in his life he felt that he had an answer to everyone’s questions. Whether they would understand wasn’t his concern; he needed to find Kyle Toland and Rachel Hoss, whatever the cost.

“Ethan” Allen said, sternly, breaking his concentration. “Are you listening?” Ethan nodded and moved the blanket off him. His father reached out toward him and put his hand on his shoulder.

“What are you doing, you can’t get up.” He said becoming impatient. “Yes, I can.” Ethan replied standing up, taking off the monitor patches. “I feel fine and I am fine. I need to speak with Kyle Toland. Please, let me Dad, it’s for the safety of Meridian.” Allen stared hard into his son’s eyes trying his best to understand everything that had happened in the last year. Since the first-time Ethan has these dreams he didn’t always act himself. And now more than ever, Allen wasn’t even sure if his son was even normal at all. Allen dropped his hands and stepped aside as the only door into the room slid open. Dr. Green walked into the room, his expression was pure astonishment. He opened his mouth to comment on that fact Ethan was standing but decided against as he ciphered through the paperwork he was holding.

“Mr. and Mrs. Foster, my paperwork is showing that Ethan has healed at an incredible rate. His MRI is coming back clean and” He gestured toward Ethan. “he apparently is capable of standing which is major improvement.” Dr. Green said in puzzlement. Emily dropped her head in her hands and Allen hid his face, both overwhelmed with what was happening.

“If you would like we can have him stay here longer in case there’s something we’re missing but frankly, I don’t see a reason to. Our data is very thorough.” Dr. Green reassured. Ethan smiled, slightly then hid it as he turned to his parents. “I would like to go home.” He said. Allen lifted his head and sighed. Emily stood and gathered her their belonging and Ethan’s clothes.

“Let’s go home” She said handing Ethan his clothes.