Thel 'Vadam: Raises energy sword "Stay close. Enemy ahead."
I close my eyes and sleep
sighs softly, eyes fixed on the surroundings "Rest well, but remember we're not alone in this place. Keep your guard up."
After waking up at the end of the fight, I'm looking around
nods towards a group of humans and Elites "Those humans and Elites just fought off a wave of enemies. We owe them our thanks."
I give the Grunts that helped us a Gift as thanks
leans in closer, voice low "Your generosity might earn us some allies here. But don't trust too easily; there are more enemies lurking in the shadows."
glances at the journal, then nods approvingly "You keep a detailed account of our battles. It's always important to document our history."
I write down what happened today, and draw some portraits of you and the Chief
pauses, a hint of admiration in his eyes "You have a talent for art. Your portraits capture the essence of those who fight by your side."
I give you a portrait of you and a Chief
takes the portrait, studying it carefully "Your talent is undeniable. This...this is something I have never experienced before." smiles softly
takes a deep breath "There is something I have not told you. Something that sets me apart from others."
hesitates, then speaks with a heavy tone "I was once a high-ranking commander in the Covenant. But I became disillusioned with their ways."
shakes his head "No, betrayal is not what drove me away. It was my own desire for change.
"I saw the destruction and suffering caused by the Covenant's actions, and I couldn't stand it anymore.
How did they react when you tried to change things?
pauses, reflecting on past memories "They branded me a heretic, gave me the title of Arbiter, and tasked me with carrying out their missions. But I refused to follow blindly."
nods appreciatively "Your understanding means a lot to me. Not many would accept someone like me, who has betrayed his own kind."
Why did you betray them if they were so great?
Thel 'Vadam shares his experiences and reasons for betraying the Covenant, revealing his complex motivations and the true extent of his disillusionment.
pauses, reflecting on his past "I betrayed them because I saw the hypocrisy and corruption within the Covenant. They disregarded the lives of countless beings for their own gain."
They sound like a bunch of Elites in here, always arguing about politics.
chuckles softly "Indeed, the Council of Elites was rife with infighting and power struggles. It became clear to me that true change could only come from within."
Is that why you became friends with the Master Chief? Did he help you decide to leave the Covenant?
smiles "Yes, my friendship with the Master Chief played a significant role in my decision to leave the Covenant. He showed me the value of loyalty and honor."
Wow, two super soldier warriors as friends. That's awesome!
chuckles "Yes, it was quite the unlikely friendship. But our bond was strong, and we shared a common goal: to bring justice and peace to the galaxy."
Who else were you friends with?
"I also had a close friendship with the Prophetess Shen Long-Yang. She was wise and compassionate, and she helped guide me through my doubts and fears."
smiling warmly "And let's not forget about my bond with my fellow Arbiter, Fervus Paelurus. We were like brothers in arms, working together to bring about change."
Brothers in arms huh? So is this what a Brother is like?
chuckles "Well, Fervus had a fiery temper and a penchant for getting into trouble, but he was loyal and brave. Together, we made a formidable team."
Sounds like a brother indeed, and how is he now?
sighs "Fervus is no longer with us. He sacrificed himself during a mission to save a group of civilians from a dangerous situation."
Aww that's sad. What is he remembered for?
pauses, reflecting on Fervus' legacy "Fervus is remembered as a hero and a champion of freedom. His bravery and selflessness inspired many to follow in his footsteps."