Editing Arbiter

{{Status|Canon}}
{{disambig header|the Sangheili title|other articles including "Arbiter"|Arbiter (disambiguation)}}
{{Title infobox
|name=Arbiter
|image=[[File:H2A - Arbiter armor.jpg|300px]]
|type=*Ruler of the [[Sangheili]]
*Agent of the [[Hierarchs]] {{C|formerly}}
|government=*[[Council of City States]] {{C|formerly}}
*[[Covenant]] {{C|formerly}}
*[[Swords of Sanghelios]]
|memberof=
|duties=*Missions of suicidal danger and grave religious or political importance {{C|formerly}}
*Leader of the Swords of Sanghelios
|term=Life
|style=
|headquarters=
|formation=Prior to [[938 BCE]]
|reorganized=*c. [[2152]]
*[[2552#November|November 3, 2552]]
|abolished=
|notable=*[[Fal 'Chavamee]]
*[[Jeht 'Lcmutee]]
*[[Ripa 'Moramee]]
*[[Thel 'Vadam]]
*[[Irsu 'Labat]]
}}
{{Quote|The [[Taming of the Lekgolo|Taming of the Hunters]], the [[Unggoy Rebellion|Grunt Rebellion]]. Were it not for the Arbiters, the Covenant would have broken long ago!|The [[Prophet of Mercy|High Prophet of Mercy]]<ref name="h2arbiter">'''[[Halo 2]]''', campaign level ''[[The Arbiter]]''</ref>}}

'''Arbiter''' is a title of the highest possible honor bestowed upon a [[Sangheili]]. Formerly appointed only by the [[Hierarchs]] of the [[Covenant]] during a time of need, the title is currently held by [[Thel 'Vadam]] who leads the [[Swords of Sanghelios]] after the Covenant's dissolution.<ref name="arbiter universe">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/characters/arbiter-thel-vadam '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Arbiter Thel 'Vadam'']</ref>

The title was originally the greatest religious, military, and political rank of the Sangheili. After they joined the Covenant, however, the role was downplayed in importance somewhat, with the [[Sangheili Councilor|Sangheili High Councilors]] ranking higher in political matters. This would eventually change again: approximately 400 years before the Human-Covenant war, [[Fal 'Chavamee|an Arbiter]] declared he did not believe in the Great Journey and was stripped of his rank and killed. Thus the title became a brand of shame. Arbiters were sent on highly perilous and suicidal missions by the Hierarchs. On these missions, the Arbiter was expected to die and to become another great martyr of the Covenant on their path to the [[Covenant religion|Great Journey]].{{Ref/Reuse|h2arbiter}} This was seen as a way to regain, in part, their honor. Depending on the nature of his assignment an Arbiter would have either acted alone as a singular combatant, with support by [[Covenant military]] forces, or they were tasked to lead large numbers of Covenant troops.<ref name="h2journey">'''Halo 2''', campaign level, ''[[The Great Journey]]''</ref>

Notable Arbiters have been appointed by the Prophets during incidents such as the Taming of the Lekgolo, the Unggoy Rebellion, the [[Human-Covenant War]], and most recently, the threat of the [[heretics]] led by [[Sesa 'Refumee]].{{Ref/Reuse|h2arbiter}}<ref name="enc138">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]''', ''page 138''</ref>

==History==
===Origins and early history===
[[File:H2A Terminals - Ancient Arbiter 1.jpg|thumb|250px|[[Irsu 'Labat]], the ancient Arbiter and tyrant of Qivro standing atop a battlefield.]]
{{Quote|They ruled their world with pride, and vigilance, surviving the perils of both land and sea. These were the Arbiters of old; part king, part judge. Warrior-rulers unlike any of which would follow.|[[Unidentified San'Shyuum scribe|A San'Shyuum scribe]]<ref name="h2aterm6">'''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''', ''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminal 6]]''</ref>}}
The title of Arbiter dates back long before the [[Covenant]], and long before the [[Sangheili]] became a space-faring race, originating on [[Sanghelios]]. The Arbiters of old were immensely powerful and skilled warriors who ruled over all Sangheili [[clan]]s, described as "''part king, part judge''". Centuries before the Sangheili became space-faring, [[Irsu 'Labat|a tyrannical Arbiter]] took control of the entire continent of [[Qivro]]. However, the Arbiter and his oppresive regime were eventually overthrown by a coalition of [[kaidon]]s known as the [[Swords of Sanghelios]].<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/factions/swords-of-sanghelios '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Swords of Sanghelios'']</ref> The Arbiters continued to lead their species even after the Sangheili had colonized [[Sangheili colonies|dozens of other worlds]].{{Ref/Reuse|h2aterm6}}

When the [[San'Shyuum]] arrived in their [[Forerunner Dreadnought]] in [[938 BCE]] on the Sangheili frontier colony of [[Ulgethon]], Arbiter [[Vema 'Togad]] initiated the [[War of Beginnings]] by decapitating a delegation of San'Shyuum and returning their heads to the Dreadnought for the other San'Shyuum [[Reformists]] to find. As the war began, this Arbiter led the Sangheili against the San'Shyuum during the war that lasted many decades. After the [[Writ of Union]] was ratified and the war had ended, the [[Hierarchs]] of the newly formed Covenant realized the importance of the title of Arbiter.{{Ref/Reuse|h2aterm6}}

===The Covenant===
{{Quote|multi=more
|1=Sesa 'Refumee
|q1=An Arbiter was once the pinnacle of our people. Leader of the clans, and master of the battlefield. But then, an Arbiter committed heresy. And an example was made of him.
|2=343 Guilty Spark
|q2=Heresy?
|3=Sesa 'Refumee
|q3=He challenged the word of the Prophets. Challenged...and lost. So the title of Arbiter became a badge of shame for our most spectacularly failed warriors.
|4=[[Sesa 'Refumee]] and [[343 Guilty Spark]] converse about the history of the Arbiter<ref name="h2aterm7">'''Halo 2: Anniversary''', ''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminal 7]]''</ref>
}}
[[File:H2A terminal TH Arbiter 1.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Arbiter [[Jeht 'Lcmutee]] is blessed by a Hierarch.]]
The establishment of the Covenant led to the Sangheili losing most of their traditions and history. However, the title of Arbiter was maintained as a position of power for the Sangheili.{{Ref/Reuse|h2aterm7}} The appellation of Arbiter was bestowed upon the commander-in-chief of the [[Covenant military]], and was regarded as a great privilege among the Sangheili race. Arbiter was a noble title only given to a Sangheili that was considered worthy of bringing justice and peace to the Covenant—some considered it a "''badge of greatness''". The Arbiter's authority would not be questioned by any other individual in the Covenant.<ref name="wos295">'''[[Halo: Evolutions|Halo: Evolutions – Volume II]]''', "[[Wages of Sin]]", ''pages 294-295''</ref> Most notably, the Arbiter of the Covenant would serve as the "Will of the Hierarchs".{{Ref/Reuse|h2aterm6}} At some point the year before or in [[784 BCE]], during an [[Ages of Conversion|Age of Conversion]], the Covenant's [[Taming of the Lekgolo|war]] with the [[Lekgolo]] species had proved itself to be significantly more difficult than anticipated. Arbiter [[Jeht 'Lcmutee]] was tasked with traveling to the [[moon]] of [[Rantu]] to learn about the Lekgolo's strengths and weaknesses,<ref name="h2aterm8">'''Halo 2: Anniversary''', ''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminal 8]]''</ref> and upon learning that the Lekgolo could combine into the powerful [[Mgalekgolo]] forms, he proposed the species' incorporation into the Covenant to the Hierarchs. The Hierarchs reluctantly agreed with the Arbiter, and the Lekgolo joined the empire.<ref name="ch269">'''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''', ''pages 269-270''</ref>

However, approximately four hundred years prior to the [[Battle of Installation 04|destruction]] of [[Installation 04]], the contemporary Arbiter, [[Fal 'Chavamee]], refused to accept the [[Covenant religion]] and was branded a [[List of known Covenant heretics|heretic]] by the Hierarchs. The resulting chain of events, which led to the deaths of both 'Chavamee and a high-ranking kinsman named [[Haka 'Suukaree]], led to the Prophets changing the role of the Arbiter significantly. The title was thereafter given to disgraced Sangheili in order for them to regain their honor by way of suicidal missions of great importance to the Covenant as a whole.<ref name="Duel">'''[[Halo Legends]]''', ''[[The Duel]]''</ref> In part, the change was additionally made by the Hierarchs to secure their own power over the Sangheili;{{Ref/Reuse|wos295}} in many cases, brilliant Sangheili who asked too many questions or were otherwise seen as a threat to the Prophets were branded heretics and then appointed Arbiter to silence them and to keep the Sangheili without a strong leader of their own.<ref name="h2aterm11">'''Halo 2: Anniversary''', ''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminal 11]]''</ref> During the [[Unggoy Rebellion]] of [[2462]], an Arbiter was appointed to put down the insurrection. Arbiter [[Heki 'Gibadee]] commanded a [[Covenant fleet|fleet]] and partially [[Glassing|glassed]] the [[Unggoy]] homeworld of [[Balaho]], forcing the species to surrender and rejoin the Covenant.<ref name="h2aterm10">'''Halo 2: Anniversary''', ''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminal 10]]''</ref>

[[File:HW Ripa is killed.png|250px|thumb|Arbiter [[Ripa 'Moramee]] meets his end in [[Battle of the Trove|battle]].]]
After the outbreak of the [[Human-Covenant War]], the [[Prophet of Regret]] made [[Ripa 'Moramee]] an Arbiter charged with the destruction of humanity. Acting as the Arbiter, 'Moramee led Covenant forces during the [[Harvest campaign]], the [[Battle for Arcadia]] and the [[Battle of Trove]]. The latter battle happened when the Prophet of Regret sought to unlock a fleet of [[Forerunner]] [[Sojourner-class dreadnought|''Sojourner''-class dreadnoughts]] in order to win the war far more quickly. 'Moramee kidnapped Professor [[Ellen Anders]] from [[Arcadia]] at the end of the battle there to act as a [[Reclaimer]] to unlock the ships for the Covenant. 'Moramee's ship was followed to [[Trove]] by the [[Phoenix-class colony ship|''Phoenix''-class support ship]] [[UNSC Spirit of Fire|UNSC ''Spirit of Fire'']]<ref>'''Halo Wars''', campaign level, ''[[Anders' Signal]]''</ref> where the human vessel worked to rescue Anders and foil the Covenant plot. Near the end of the Battle of the Etran Harborage, Arbiter Ripa 'Moramee was killed by [[Sergeant]] [[John Forge]] with his own [[energy sword]]. The planet and its fleet of Forerunner ships were subsequently destroyed by the ''Spirit of Fire'' and her forces, foiling the Covenant plot.<ref name="Escape">'''Halo Wars''', campaign level, ''[[Escape (Halo Wars level)|Escape]]''</ref> Ripa 'Moramee would be the second-to-last Arbiter appointed by the Hierarchs.{{Ref/Game|H5G|Krith's Left Hand|Quote=Reclaimed from the notorious Kig-Yar Pirate King's personal vaults by the previous Arbiter, Ripa 'Moramee. Advanced Beam Rifle that fires a burst of energy with each pull of the trigger.|Quotee=REQ description}}

[[File:H2A Terminals - Arbiter kneeling.png|thumb|250px|Thel 'Vadamee, the last Arbiter of the Covenant.]]
In [[2552]], after the [[Battle of Installation 04|destruction]] of [[Installation 04]] by [[John-117]], [[Supreme Commander]] [[Thel 'Vadam]]ee was branded a heretic for his failure to protect the Halo installation. Rather than be executed, he was declared an Arbiter by the Hierarchs.{{Ref/Reuse|h2arbiter}} 'Vadamee was tasked with eliminating heretic leader [[Sesa 'Refumee]],<ref>'''Halo 2''', campaign level, ''[[The Oracle]]''</ref> and was later charged with retrieving the [[activation index]] of [[Installation 05]]. However, after recovering the index, the Arbiter was betrayed by [[Tartarus]], [[Chieftain of the Jiralhanae]], who had been ordered to lead an armed coup against the Sangheili by the [[Prophet of Truth|High Prophet of Truth]].<ref>'''Halo 2''', campaign level, ''[[Quarantine Zone]]''</ref> However, 'Vadamee survived Tartarus' assassination attempt and proceeded to lead the Sangheili against the Covenant in the [[Great Schism]].{{Ref/Reuse|h2journey}} Rescued by the [[Gravemind]], 'Vadamee learned the truth of the Halos and the Great Journey from the Flood leader with the help of John-117, the human warrior who had disgraced 'Vadamee by destroying Installation 04.<ref>'''[[Halo 2]]''', campaign level ''[[Gravemind (level)|Gravemind]]''</ref> Due to a combination of desperation and disillusion with his former beliefs, the Arbiter allied with the UNSC. Together, the Sangheili and the humans were able to defeat the Covenant at [[Installation 00]], with 'Vadam executing Truth, the last Hierarch of the Covenant, himself. During this final battle, 'Vadam fought side-by-side with John-117, the two former mortal enemies creating a formidable force.<ref>'''[[Halo 3]]''', campaign level ''[[The Covenant (level)|The Covenant]]''</ref>

===Post-Covenant War===
{{Quote|After the breaking of the Covenant, the Sangheili hero known as Thel 'Vadam returned home, bearing the title and armor of the Arbiter-once considered a mark of shame, now worn as a badge of honor.|The [[Curator]]<ref name="Mythos142">'''[[Halo Mythos]]''', ''page 142''</ref>}}
After the Human-Covenant War ended, the Arbiter ratified the [[Treaty of 2552]] with the [[Unified Earth Government]] to declare peace between the Sangheili and humanity. The Arbiter established the [[Swords of Sanghelios]] and attempted to unify the Sangheili species, although he did not receive universal approval among the Sangheili. Some believed that Vadam's very existence was heretical as he did not sacrifice himself in battle as was traditional of Arbiters in the Covenant. As such, many devout believers regarded Thel a "false Arbiter".{{Ref/Reuse|arbiter universe}} In [[2553]], Thel 'Vadam traveled to each state of Sanghelios to make his case for permanent peace with humanity. During his visit to [[Mdama]], he announced that he no longer felt he was an Arbiter, but simply a [[kaidon]].<ref name="gl58">'''[[Halo: Glasslands]]''', ''pages 58-61''</ref> Despite this, Thel 'Vadam continues to hold the title of Arbiter as of October [[2558#October|2558]].{{Ref/Reuse|arbiter universe}}<ref>'''[[Halo: Escalation]]''', ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 1|Issue #1]]''</ref><ref name="H5G">'''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'''</ref>

==Function and duties==
{{Quote|The tasks you must undertake as the Arbiter are perilous, suicidal. You will die, as each Arbiter has before you.|The High Prophet of Mercy, to Arbiter Thel 'Vadamee{{Ref/Reuse|h2arbiter}}}}
[[File:H2A Terminals - UR Arbiter 2.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Arbiter [[Heki 'Gibadee]] quelled the Unggoy Rebellion.]]
Originally, the function of Arbiter was to serve as the ruler of the [[Sangheili]] species.{{Ref/Reuse|h2aterm6}} When the [[Covenant]] was established, the title of Arbiter was one of the few pieces of Sangheili culture that was left unmolested by the [[San'Shyuum]]. The Arbiter continued to serve as the commander-in-chief of the [[Covenant military]]{{Ref/Reuse|h2aterm7}} and served as the guardian of the [[Covenant religion|Great Journey]].<ref>'''[[Halo Channel]]''': ''Who is the Arbiter? - Part 1''</ref> After the function of Arbiter was altered approximately four hundred years prior to [[2552]], the Arbiter followed the direct orders of the [[Hierarchs]].{{Ref/Reuse|Duel}} Every Arbiter was chosen during a time of great conflict.{{Ref/Reuse|h2arbiter}} Arbiters were charged with carrying out extremely dangerous missions that were meant to redeem themselves from past sins and heresies through death. Although the Arbiters were aware that their title was a death sentence, they would gladly carry out the Hierarchs' missions and anticipated a glorious death to regain lost honor.{{Ref/Reuse|enc138}}{{Ref/Reuse|h2aterm11}} To most members of the Covenant, especially the [[Unggoy]], the Arbiter was seen as a savior in times of dire need; their Sangheili peers consider them the living embodiment of the "Will of the Prophets".{{Ref/Reuse|h2arbiter}} Their corpses—or presumably memorials in some cases{{Ref/Reuse|Escape}}<ref name="ENC">'''Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe''', ''page 139''</ref>—were housed in identical caskets in the [[Mausoleum of the Arbiter]]. In the center of this room was a floating pod that contained the [[Arbiter body armor|armor of the Arbiter]] when one was not currently appointed. This armor, while highly decorative, is fully functional as battle armor.{{Ref/Reuse|h2arbiter}}

Though considered a commanding role of high esteem, the Arbiter was condemned to a life of suicidal missions to regain his honor. This includes the current Arbiter, [[Thel 'Vadam]], who was branded a heretic for his failure to protect [[Installation 04|one of]] the sacred [[Halo Array|Halo rings]] from the so-called "[[Demon]]", [[SPARTAN-II program|SPARTAN-II]] [[John-117]].<ref>'''Halo 2''', campaign level ''[[The Heretic]]''</ref> Although the Arbiter is a singular warrior, he has the authority to give orders to other Covenant soldiers; this command can be likened to that of a [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]] [[General|four-star general]].<ref>'''Halo Wars''', ''instruction manual''</ref> Arbiter [[Ripa 'Moramee]] once activated his [[Type-1 energy sword|energy swords]] in the presence of a [[Prophet of Regret|Hierarch]], something that was normally seen as an act of aggression against the Prophet and was punishable by death. His status as Arbiter is likely the only reason the nearby [[Sangheili Honor Guardsmen]] did not kill him on the spot.<ref>'''Halo Wars''', campaign level ''[[Scarab (level)|Scarab]]''</ref>

While the honor of the title was restored after the dissolution of the Covenant, the function and role of the contemporary Arbiter are quite dissimilar from those of the judge-kings of ancient times.<ref>[https://twitter.com/GrimBrotherOne/status/782027755604946944 '''Twitter''' - ''GrimBrotherOne'']</ref>

===Appointment and succession===
[[File:H2A - Thel before armor.jpg|thumb|250px|Thel 'Vadamee is appointed Arbiter.]]
{{Quote|multi=more
|1=343 Guilty Spark
|q1=Looking back at the record of the Arbiters you've discussed, was it not surprising to anyone that those chosen to become Arbiter were more than simple warriors?
|2=Sesa 'Refumee
|q2=How so?
|3=343 Guilty Spark
|q3=Each of them had significant political influence among your people. In some cases, that influence was already being used to question the decisions of your Hierarchs. In fact, that very questioning often gave rise to the charges of heresy that so neatly removed the challenger from the Hierarchs' concern.
|4=343 Guilty Spark and Sesa 'Refumee converse about the appointment of the Arbiter{{Ref/Reuse|h2aterm11}}
}}
When an Arbiter was chosen within the Covenant, he was usually a highly skilled Sangheili warrior who, through either chance or misdeed, had severely disgraced himself in his line of duty. The rank of the Sangheili prior to becoming Arbiter presumably had no effect on the chance of becoming Arbiter, though higher-ranked Sangheili had better chances due to their more extensive experience and superior skill. The rank of Arbiter was considered a very prized reward, especially as it allowed the individual to die honorably rather than be shamefully executed. While there were many known cases of the mantle of the Arbiter being used to snuff out potential challengers to the Hierarchs' power over the Sangheili,{{Ref/Reuse|h2aterm11}} in other cases such as that of Ripa 'Moramee, brutish individuals with a high propensity for violence were chosen instead.<ref name="hwgen">'''[[Halo Wars: Genesis]]'''</ref>

There were lines of succession for the title of Arbiter. For example, Ripa 'Moramee was the Seventeenth Arbiter in the Line of Immaculate Succession.{{Ref/Reuse|hwgen}} Arbiters were only selected during a time of great conflict, such as during the [[Human-Covenant War]] or the [[Unggoy Rebellion]]. They were appointed only by the Hierarchs of the Covenant.{{Ref/Reuse|h2arbiter}}

==Armor==
[[File:H2A - Arbiter helmet.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Thel 'Vadamee donning the helmet of the Arbiter for the first time.]]
Each Arbiter receives [[Arbiter body armor|a unique set of armor]] that is built according to an age-old design from before the Covenant. The very nature of the Arbiter means that they are sent on dangerous, often suicidal missions, where recovery of the corpse and the armor it wears may be impossible.{{Ref/Reuse|Escape}}{{Ref/Reuse|ENC}} The armor of the Arbiter is kept in the [[Mausoleum of the Arbiter]] until it is bestowed upon a new holder of the title. It is composed of a silvery-bronze colored metal with ornate engravings and metal work, indicating the Arbiter's ceremonial nature. However, it is fully functional as a combat suit, incorporating a [[heads-up display]], an [[energy shielding]] system, and [[active camouflage]]. The armor incorporates a form-fitting bodysuit and blue restraining straps. Contrary to the claims of the Hierarchs, the Arbiters' armor is generally, if not always, replaced between wearers, as it is often irreparably damaged when an Arbiter is killed. This was the case with [[Ripa 'Moramee]], whose body was pushed several kilometers off the [[Apex Site]] and was subsequently destroyed by a [[supernova]].{{Ref/Reuse|enc138}}{{Ref/Reuse|Escape}}

The technology used in the armor is similar to the standard [[Combat harness|Sangheili combat harness]], though it is of an older design and considered "not state-of-the-art".{{Ref/Reuse|enc138}} While modern Covenant active camouflage has a virtually unlimited duration, the Arbiter's camouflage lasts only for a few seconds, though still enough to give him a tactical advantage.{{Ref/Reuse|h2arbiter}}

The armor may be subject to some small amount of customization. Ripa 'Moramee was taller than most Sangheili, at over 8'1<nowiki>''</nowiki>, while Thel 'Vadam stands at 7'10<nowiki>''</nowiki>. Furthermore, when first donning the armor, 'Vadam lacked mandible guards or a shoulder-mounted light that he possessed after the [[Great Schism]], where his active camouflage was also significantly upgraded.<ref>'''Halo 3'''</ref> In addition, when the Arbiter was sent on missions requiring specialized armor, such as during the [[Taming of the Lekgolo]] where Arbiter [[Jeht 'Lcmutee]] required a [[vacuum suit]] to breathe on [[Rantu]], they would be given a variant that was more suitable for the occasion.{{Ref/Reuse|h2aterm8}}

As of [[2558]], Arbiter Thel 'Vadam dons a ceremonial battledress that he believes serves as tribute to traditional armor style previously worn by the Arbiters, while also serving as a symbol of transition that represents his new-found role as a leader of his people and of a united [[Sanghelios]].{{Ref/Reuse|arbiter universe}}

==Known Arbiters==
[[File:HW Arbiter Closeup Apex.png|thumb|250px|Ripa 'Moramee, the seventeenth Arbiter in the Line of Immaculate Succession.]]

This is a list of all known Arbiters in chronological order:
*[[Irsu 'Labat]] – who was a tyrannical leader, overthrown by the original ancient Swords of Sanghelios. 
*[[Vema 'Togad]] – who led the Sangheili during the [[War of Beginnings]].
*[[Jeht 'Lcmutee]] – during the [[Taming of the Lekgolo]], tasked with pacifying the [[Lekgolo]] resistance.{{Ref/Reuse|ch269}}
*[[Fal 'Chavamee]] – during the 2100s (approximately four hundred years prior to [[2552]]).<ref>[http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=952800 '''halo.bungie.org''': ''Re: Okay'' ('''Frank O'Connor''': ''This is quite late into the Covenant as a society, with most of the client species either absorbed or in the process of absorption...'')]</ref> 'Chavamee's refusal to accept the [[Covenant religion]] led to the rank of Arbiter being converted into a badge of shame.{{Ref/Reuse|Duel}}
*[[Heki 'Gibadee]] – during the [[Unggoy Rebellion]], tasked with quelling the uprising.{{Ref/Reuse|h2arbiter}}
*[[Ripa 'Moramee]] – The seventeenth Arbiter in the Line of Immaculate Succession who led Covenant forces on [[Harvest]], [[Arcadia]], and [[Trove]]. Turned into an Arbiter by the [[Prophet of Regret]] to lead [[Human-Covenant War|the destruction of humanity]] before falling [[Battle of the Trove|in battle]] to Sergeant [[John Forge]].<ref>'''[[Halo Wars]]'''</ref>
*[[Thel 'Vadam]] – Arbiter who quelled the [[heretics]] led by [[Sesa 'Refumee]] and later led the [[Fleet of Retribution|Sangheili]] during the [[Great Schism]]. Last Arbiter to be appointed prior to the Covenant's fragmentation.{{Ref/Reuse|arbiter universe}}
{{Clear}}

==Trivia==
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of Arbiters}}
{{Other languages
|de={{Tooltip|''Gebieter''}}<br>
}}
*In ''Halo 3'', the Arbiter's armor is different from its appearance in ''Halo 2''. The Arbiter's mandibles in ''Halo 2'' are unprotected, while in ''Halo 3'', the armor covers the mandibles. Similarly, the Arbiter has a [[flashlight]] on his left shoulder, but it only works when playing with other players or a guest.
*The Arbiter was originally meant to be called the "Dervish". The name was changed because it might create an unintended parallel between the game and the real-life conflict between the Western World and the Middle East.
*In the Spanish language versions of ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 3'', the Arbiter is called "Inquisidor". This is because the cognate "árbitro" means "referee", and the title would thus be lost in translation.
*Before ''Halo 2'' was released, the Elite bipeds in Multiplayer had the armor of an Arbiter, but their armor was changed to the regular Elite armor.<ref>[http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-5392303428310612399&q=Halo+2+documentary&total=153&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=4 '''Google Video''': ''Halo 2 Bonus DVD : Multiplayer Featurette'']</ref>
*In ''Halo 2'', the Arbiter's right side shoulder armor contains a mini sculpt of the Legendary Difficulty Skull. This can be seen in cutscenes and in co-op.
*An [[Wikipedia:Arbitration|arbiter]] is someone who settles negotiations and disputes between parties. Decisions made by an arbiter are legally binding and endorsing.
*[[Arbiter (Killer Instinct)|An Arbiter]] appears in the [[Microsoft Studios]] and  ''[[Wikipedia:Killer Instinct (2013 video game)|Killer Instinct]]'' as a playable character. While marketed primarily as ''the'' Arbiter, the character is envisioned as a canonically flexible amalgamation of several Arbiters rather than any particular individual and can be clad in various Sangheili armor sets.<ref name="KI">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-fighting-words '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder''- ''Fighting Words'']</ref>
*Arbiter appeared in [[Wikipedia:Konami|Konami]]'s ''[[Wikipedia:Super Bomberman R|Super Bomberman R]]'' as one of the three exclusive characters in the Xbox One version. He is known as Arbiter Bomber, a Covenant bomberman from Planet Halo. He is an attack typed bomber and his special ability is Meditate.

==Gallery==
<gallery>
File:Arbarm.JPG|The armor of the Arbiter in ''Halo 2''.
File:Arby helmet.jpg|Thel 'Vadamee accepts the title of Arbiter.
File:Arbiter3.jpg|'Vadamee at audience with the Hierarchs.
File:HW-Concept-Arbiter-01.jpg|An early concept of 'Moramee's armor for ''Halo Wars''.
File:HW Concept Render Arbiter.jpg|A later, more traditional concept of Ripa 'Moramee's armor.
File:Fal Arbiter.jpg|Fal 'Chavamee, the last Arbiter to bear the title as a badge of honor, in ''Halo Legends'': ''The Duel''.
File:H2A_-_Arbiter.png|Updated appearance of 'Vadamee in ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''.
File:H2A Terminals - Ancient Arbiter 2.jpg|An Arbiter leading his people in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''<nowiki>'s</nowiki> [[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|terminals]].
File:H2A Terminals - Ancient Arbiter 3.jpg|An Arbiter raises his blade as a crowd cheers.
File:H2A Terminals - Ancient Arbiter 4.jpg|Arbiter Vema 'Togad on [[Ulgethon]] observes the San'Shyuum's [[Forerunner Dreadnought]].
File:H2A Terminals - Prophet-Elite War Arbiter.jpg|Arbiter Vema 'Togad during the [[San'Shyuum-Sangheili War]].
File:H2A terminal TH Arbiter 2.jpg|Arbiter Jeht 'Lcmutee, who oversaw the [[Taming of the Lekgolo]].
File:H2A Terminals - UR Arbiter 1.jpg|Heki 'Gibadee is appointed Arbiter to quell the [[Unggoy Rebellion]].
File:H2A Terminals - UR Arbiter 3.jpg|The Unggoy surrender to the triumphant Arbiter, before allowing them entry into Sangheili units.
File:KI-Arbys.png|Two Arbiters (based on Thel 'Vadam's ''Halo 5: Guardians'' and ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' appearances, respectively) dueling in ''Killer Instinct''.
</gallery>

==List of appearances==
{{Col-begin}}
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
**''[[Petra]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo 2]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo Wars: Genesis]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[Origins]]''
**''[[The Duel]]''
**''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
**''[[The Return]]'' {{C|Motion comic only}}
**''[[Wages of Sin]]'' {{Mo}}
**''[[From the Office of Dr. William Arthur Iqbal]]'' {{Mo}}
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Halo: Glasslands]]''
*''[[Halo: The Thursday War]]''
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo: Mortal Dictata]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Broken Circle]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
**''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminals]]''
*''[[Halo: New Blood]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]''
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
**''[[Halo 5: Guardians Limited Edition dossiers|Limited Edition dossiers]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]''
*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
*''[[Halo Fractures]]''
**''[[Lessons Learned]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Envoy]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Legacy of Onyx]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo Infinite]]'' {{C|Doll and Emblem only}}
{{Col-end}}

==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources|2}}

==External links==
*[[Wikipedia:Arbiter (Halo)|The Arbiter]] on Wikipedia

{{Sangheili Ranks}}

[[Category:Arbiters| ]]
@@ Line 24: / Line 24: @@
 *[[Thel 'Vadam]]
 *[[Irsu 'Labat]]
-*[[Var 'Gatanai]] {{c|Silver Timeline}}
 }}
 {{Quote|The [[Taming of the Lekgolo|Taming of the Hunters]], the [[Unggoy Rebellion|Grunt Rebellion]]. Were it not for the Arbiters, the Covenant would have broken long ago!|The [[Prophet of Mercy|High Prophet of Mercy]]<ref name="h2arbiter">'''[[Halo 2]]''', campaign level ''[[The Arbiter]]''</ref>}}
@@ Line 55: / Line 54: @@
 The establishment of the Covenant led to the Sangheili losing most of their traditions and history. However, the title of Arbiter was maintained as a position of power for the Sangheili.{{Ref/Reuse|h2aterm7}} The appellation of Arbiter was bestowed upon the commander-in-chief of the [[Covenant military]], and was regarded as a great privilege among the Sangheili race. Arbiter was a noble title only given to a Sangheili that was considered worthy of bringing justice and peace to the Covenant—some considered it a "''badge of greatness''". The Arbiter's authority would not be questioned by any other individual in the Covenant.<ref name="wos295">'''[[Halo: Evolutions|Halo: Evolutions – Volume II]]''', "[[Wages of Sin]]", ''pages 294-295''</ref> Most notably, the Arbiter of the Covenant would serve as the "Will of the Hierarchs".{{Ref/Reuse|h2aterm6}} At some point the year before or in [[784 BCE]], during an [[Ages of Conversion|Age of Conversion]], the Covenant's [[Taming of the Lekgolo|war]] with the [[Lekgolo]] species had proved itself to be significantly more difficult than anticipated. Arbiter [[Jeht 'Lcmutee]] was tasked with traveling to the [[moon]] of [[Rantu]] to learn about the Lekgolo's strengths and weaknesses,<ref name="h2aterm8">'''Halo 2: Anniversary''', ''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminal 8]]''</ref> and upon learning that the Lekgolo could combine into the powerful [[Mgalekgolo]] forms, he proposed the species' incorporation into the Covenant to the Hierarchs. The Hierarchs reluctantly agreed with the Arbiter, and the Lekgolo joined the empire.<ref name="ch269">'''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''', ''pages 269-270''</ref>
-However, approximately four hundred years prior to the [[Battle of Installation 04|destruction]] of [[Installation 04]], the contemporary Arbiter, [[Fal 'Chavamee]], refused to accept the [[Covenant religion]] and was branded a [[List of known Covenant heretics|heretic]] by the Hierarchs. The resulting chain of events, which led to the deaths of both 'Chavamee and a high-ranking kinsman named [[Haka 'Suukaree]], led to the Prophets changing the role of the Arbiter significantly. The title was thereafter given to disgraced Sangheili in order for them to regain their honor by way of suicidal missions of great importance to the Covenant as a whole.<ref name="Duel">'''[[Halo Legends]]''', ''[[The Duel]]''</ref> As part of this, the Line of Immaculate Succession was established.{{Ref/Book|Id=enc22pg245|Enc22|Page=245}} In part, the change was additionally made by the Hierarchs to secure their own power over the Sangheili;{{Ref/Reuse|wos295}} in many cases, brilliant Sangheili who asked too many questions or were otherwise seen as a threat to the Prophets were branded heretics and then appointed Arbiter to silence them and to keep the Sangheili without a strong leader of their own.<ref name="h2aterm11">'''Halo 2: Anniversary''', ''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminal 11]]''</ref>
+However, approximately four hundred years prior to the [[Battle of Installation 04|destruction]] of [[Installation 04]], the contemporary Arbiter, [[Fal 'Chavamee]], refused to accept the [[Covenant religion]] and was branded a [[List of known Covenant heretics|heretic]] by the Hierarchs. The resulting chain of events, which led to the deaths of both 'Chavamee and a high-ranking kinsman named [[Haka 'Suukaree]], led to the Prophets changing the role of the Arbiter significantly. The title was thereafter given to disgraced Sangheili in order for them to regain their honor by way of suicidal missions of great importance to the Covenant as a whole.<ref name="Duel">'''[[Halo Legends]]''', ''[[The Duel]]''</ref> In part, the change was additionally made by the Hierarchs to secure their own power over the Sangheili;{{Ref/Reuse|wos295}} in many cases, brilliant Sangheili who asked too many questions or were otherwise seen as a threat to the Prophets were branded heretics and then appointed Arbiter to silence them and to keep the Sangheili without a strong leader of their own.<ref name="h2aterm11">'''Halo 2: Anniversary''', ''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminal 11]]''</ref> During the [[Unggoy Rebellion]] of [[2462]], an Arbiter was appointed to put down the insurrection. Arbiter [[Heki 'Gibadee]] commanded a [[Covenant fleet|fleet]] and partially [[Glassing|glassed]] the [[Unggoy]] homeworld of [[Balaho]], forcing the species to surrender and rejoin the Covenant.<ref name="h2aterm10">'''Halo 2: Anniversary''', ''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminal 10]]''</ref>
-During the [[Unggoy Rebellion]] of [[2462]], an Arbiter was appointed to put down the insurrection. Arbiter [[Heki 'Gibadee]] commanded a [[Covenant fleet|fleet]] and partially [[Glassing|glassed]] the [[Unggoy]] homeworld of [[Balaho]], forcing the species to surrender and rejoin the Covenant.<ref name="h2aterm10">'''Halo 2: Anniversary''', ''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminal 10]]''</ref>
 [[File:HW Ripa is killed.png|250px|thumb|Arbiter [[Ripa 'Moramee]] meets his end in [[Battle of the Trove|battle]].]]
@@ Line 91: / Line 88: @@
 When an Arbiter was chosen within the Covenant, he was usually a highly skilled Sangheili warrior who, through either chance or misdeed, had severely disgraced himself in his line of duty. The rank of the Sangheili prior to becoming Arbiter presumably had no effect on the chance of becoming Arbiter, though higher-ranked Sangheili had better chances due to their more extensive experience and superior skill. The rank of Arbiter was considered a very prized reward, especially as it allowed the individual to die honorably rather than be shamefully executed. While there were many known cases of the mantle of the Arbiter being used to snuff out potential challengers to the Hierarchs' power over the Sangheili,{{Ref/Reuse|h2aterm11}} in other cases such as that of Ripa 'Moramee, brutish individuals with a high propensity for violence were chosen instead.<ref name="hwgen">'''[[Halo Wars: Genesis]]'''</ref>
-Although unrelated from one another, all Arbiters following Fal 'Chavamee were part of the Line of Immaculate Succession.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22pg245}} Ripa 'Moramee was the 17th Arbiter in the line{{Ref/Reuse|hwgen}} and there only being 18 in total.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22pg245}} Arbiters were only selected during a time of great conflict, such as during the [[Human-Covenant War]] or the [[Unggoy Rebellion]]. They were appointed only by the Hierarchs of the Covenant.{{Ref/Reuse|h2arbiter}}
+There were lines of succession for the title of Arbiter. For example, Ripa 'Moramee was the Seventeenth Arbiter in the Line of Immaculate Succession.{{Ref/Reuse|hwgen}} Arbiters were only selected during a time of great conflict, such as during the [[Human-Covenant War]] or the [[Unggoy Rebellion]]. They were appointed only by the Hierarchs of the Covenant.{{Ref/Reuse|h2arbiter}}
 ==Armor==
@@ Line 104: / Line 101: @@
 ==Known Arbiters==
-[[File:HW Arbiter Closeup Apex.png|thumb|250px|Ripa 'Moramee, the 17th Arbiter in the Line of Immaculate Succession.]]
+[[File:HW Arbiter Closeup Apex.png|thumb|250px|Ripa 'Moramee, the seventeenth Arbiter in the Line of Immaculate Succession.]]
-===Pre-Covenant===
-*[[Irsu 'Labat]] – The '''Tyrant of Qivro''', who was overthrown by the ancient [[Swords of Sanghelios]].
-*[[Vema 'Togad]] – The '''Prophet's Bane''' who led the Sangheili during the [[War of Beginnings]].
-===Covenant===
-*[[Jeht 'Lcmutee]] – The '''Hunter of Hunters''' who was tasked with pacifying the [[Lekgolo]] resistance during the [[Taming of the Lekgolo]].{{Ref/Reuse|ch269}}
-*[[Fal 'Chavamee]] – The '''Defiant One''', who during the 2100s (approximately four hundred years prior to [[2552]]).<ref>[http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=952800 '''halo.bungie.org''': ''Re: Okay'' ('''Frank O'Connor''': ''This is quite late into the Covenant as a society, with most of the client species either absorbed or in the process of absorption...'')]</ref> 'Chavamee's refusal to accept the [[Covenant religion]] led to the rank of Arbiter being converted into a badge of shame.{{Ref/Reuse|Duel}} {{Ref/Reuse|enc22pg245}}
-====Line of Immaculate Succession====
-*[[Heki 'Gibadee]] – The '''Rebellion Queller''' who ended the [[Unggoy]] resistance during the [[Unggoy Rebellion]].{{Ref/Reuse|h2arbiter}}
-*[[Ripa 'Moramee]] – Known as the '''Savage''' and the 17th Arbiter in the Line of Immaculate Succession who led Covenant forces on [[Harvest]], [[Arcadia]], and [[Trove]]. Turned into an Arbiter by the [[Prophet of Regret]] to lead [[Human-Covenant War|the destruction of humanity]] before falling [[Battle of the Trove|in battle]] to Sergeant [[John Forge]].<ref>'''[[Halo Wars]]'''</ref>
-*[[Thel 'Vadam]] – The Arbiter who quelled the [[heretics]] led by [[Sesa 'Refumee]] and later led the [[Fleet of Retribution|Sangheili]] during the [[Great Schism]]. Last Arbiter to be appointed prior to the Covenant's fragmentation{{Ref/Reuse|arbiter universe}} and likely the 18th Arbiter in the Line of Immaculate Succession.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22pg245}}
-==Non-canon and dubious canon appearances==
+This is a list of all known Arbiters in chronological order:
-===Silver Timeline===
+*[[Irsu 'Labat]] – who was a tyrannical leader, overthrown by the original ancient Swords of Sanghelios.
-[[Human-Covenant War/Silver|The war against humanity]] was led by an Arbiter, [[Var 'Gatanai]],{{Ref/Film|Id=Visegrád|TV|Episode=[[Visegrád (TV Series)|Visegrád]]}} seemingly appointed at some point following the [[Battle of Raas Kkhotskha]].{{Ref/Film
+*[[Vema 'Togad]] – who led the Sangheili during the [[War of Beginnings]].
-|TV|Episode=[[Transcendence]]}}{{Ref/Film|TV|Episode=[[Sanctuary (TV Series)|Sanctuary]]}} Var's prayer to the people of [[Reach/Silver|Reach]] suggested that he was also responsible for the escalation in the war where the Covenant began [[glassing]] planets.{{Ref/Reuse|Visegrád}} Var was eventually killed by [[John-117/Silver|John-117]] in a duel on [[Installation 04]].{{Ref/Film|Id=Halo|TV|Episode=[[Halo (TV Series)|Halo]]}}
+*[[Jeht 'Lcmutee]] – during the [[Taming of the Lekgolo]], tasked with pacifying the [[Lekgolo]] resistance.{{Ref/Reuse|ch269}}
+*[[Fal 'Chavamee]] – during the 2100s (approximately four hundred years prior to [[2552]]).<ref>[http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=952800 '''halo.bungie.org''': ''Re: Okay'' ('''Frank O'Connor''': ''This is quite late into the Covenant as a society, with most of the client species either absorbed or in the process of absorption...'')]</ref> 'Chavamee's refusal to accept the [[Covenant religion]] led to the rank of Arbiter being converted into a badge of shame.{{Ref/Reuse|Duel}}
+*[[Heki 'Gibadee]] – during the [[Unggoy Rebellion]], tasked with quelling the uprising.{{Ref/Reuse|h2arbiter}}
+*[[Ripa 'Moramee]] – The seventeenth Arbiter in the Line of Immaculate Succession who led Covenant forces on [[Harvest]], [[Arcadia]], and [[Trove]]. Turned into an Arbiter by the [[Prophet of Regret]] to lead [[Human-Covenant War|the destruction of humanity]] before falling [[Battle of the Trove|in battle]] to Sergeant [[John Forge]].<ref>'''[[Halo Wars]]'''</ref>
+*[[Thel 'Vadam]] – Arbiter who quelled the [[heretics]] led by [[Sesa 'Refumee]] and later led the [[Fleet of Retribution|Sangheili]] during the [[Great Schism]]. Last Arbiter to be appointed prior to the Covenant's fragmentation.{{Ref/Reuse|arbiter universe}}
 {{Clear}}
@@ Line 134: / Line 124: @@
 *In ''Halo 2'', the Arbiter's right side shoulder armor contains a mini sculpt of the Legendary Difficulty Skull. This can be seen in cutscenes and in co-op.
 *An [[Wikipedia:Arbitration|arbiter]] is someone who settles negotiations and disputes between parties. Decisions made by an arbiter are legally binding and endorsing.
-*[[Arbiter (Killer Instinct)|An Arbiter]] appears in [[Microsoft Studios]] and [[Wikipedia:Iron Galaxy|Iron Galaxy]]'s ''[[Wikipedia:Killer Instinct (2013 video game)|Killer Instinct]]'' as a playable character. While marketed primarily as ''the'' Arbiter, the character is envisioned as a canonically flexible amalgamation of several Arbiters rather than any particular individual and can be clad in various Sangheili armor sets.<ref name="KI">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-fighting-words '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder''- ''Fighting Words'']</ref>
+*[[Arbiter (Killer Instinct)|An Arbiter]] appears in the [[Microsoft Studios]] and  ''[[Wikipedia:Killer Instinct (2013 video game)|Killer Instinct]]'' as a playable character. While marketed primarily as ''the'' Arbiter, the character is envisioned as a canonically flexible amalgamation of several Arbiters rather than any particular individual and can be clad in various Sangheili armor sets.<ref name="KI">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-fighting-words '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder''- ''Fighting Words'']</ref>
 *Arbiter appeared in [[Wikipedia:Konami|Konami]]'s ''[[Wikipedia:Super Bomberman R|Super Bomberman R]]'' as one of the three exclusive characters in the Xbox One version. He is known as Arbiter Bomber, a Covenant bomberman from Planet Halo. He is an attack typed bomber and his special ability is Meditate.
@@ Line 175: / Line 165: @@
 **''[[Wages of Sin]]'' {{Mo}}
 **''[[From the Office of Dr. William Arthur Iqbal]]'' {{Mo}}
+{{Col-2}}
 *''[[Halo: Glasslands]]''
 *''[[Halo: The Thursday War]]''
@@ Line 182: / Line 173: @@
 *''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
 **''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminals]]''
-{{Col-2}}
 *''[[Halo: New Blood]]'' {{Mo}}
 *''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]''
@@ Line 193: / Line 183: @@
 *''[[Halo: Envoy]]'' {{Mo}}
 *''[[Halo: Legacy of Onyx]]'' {{Mo}}
-*''[[Halo: Bad Blood]]''
 *''[[Halo Infinite]]'' {{C|Doll and Emblem only}}
-*''[[Halo: Outcasts]]''
-*''[[Halo: Battle for the Blood-Moon]]'' {{Mo}}
-*''[[Halo: The Television Series Season Two]]''
-**''[[Sanctuary (TV Series)|Sanctuary]]''
-**''[[Sword (TV Series)|Sword]]''
-**''[[Visegrád (TV Series)|Visegrád]]'' {{c|Recording only}}
-**''[[Reach (TV Series)|Reach]]''
-**''[[Aleria (TV Series)|Aleria]]''
-**''[[Onyx (TV Series)|Onyx]]''
-**''[[Thermopylae (TV Series)|Thermopylae]]''
-**''[[Halo (TV Series)|Halo]]''
-*''[[Halo: Anvil Accord]]'' {{Mo}}
-*''[[Halo: Age of Retribution]]''
 {{Col-end}}