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{{ | {{Era|UNSC|HCW|Post}} | ||
{{Character | {{Character Infobox|variant=Cov | ||
|variant=Cov | |||
|name=Rtas 'Vadum | |name=Rtas 'Vadum | ||
|image=[[File:H2A-Rtas-01.jpg|300px]] | |image=[[File:H2A-Rtas-01.jpg|300px]] | ||
|homeworld=[[Sanghelios]]<ref name="visual">'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 175''</ref> | |homeworld=[[Sanghelios]]<ref name="visual">'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 175''</ref> | ||
|birth=[[2487|September 21, 2487]] | |birth=[[2487|September 21, 2487]]<ref name="visual"/> | ||
|species=[[Sangheili]] | |species=[[Sangheili]] | ||
|gender=Male | |gender=Male | ||
|height={{Convert|241.3|cm|ftin | |height={{Convert|241.3|cm|ftin}}<ref name="visual"/> | ||
|mass={{Convert|146.5|kg|lb}} | |mass={{Convert|146.5|kg|lb}}<ref name="visual"/> | ||
|eyes=Orange<ref group="note">'Vadum's eyes are green in ''Halo 2'' and in-game in ''Halo 2: Anniversary'', but all other media (including ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' cutscenes) depict his eyes as orange.</ref> | |||
|eyes=Orange | |affiliation=*[[Covenant]] {{C|formerly}} | ||
|affiliation=*[[Covenant]] {{C| | *[[Swords of Sanghelios]] | ||
|rank= | |||
*[[Swords of Sanghelios]] | [[Special Operations Commander]] {{C|Covenant}} | ||
|rank= | <br>[[Fleet Master]] of the [[Fleet of Retribution]] | ||
<br>[[Shipmaster]] of the ''[[Shadow of Intent]]'' | |||
|notable= | |||
|notable= | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Quote| | {{Quote|I will beat the [[Prophet of Truth|Prophet's]] shield like a drum. By the time the barrier falls, he will beg for mercy!|Rtas 'Vadum, during the [[Battle of Installation 00]]<ref name="HGN">'''[[Halo 3]]''', ''[[The Ark]]''</ref>}} | ||
'''Rtas 'Vadum''' (formerly ''''Vadumee'''), | '''Rtas 'Vadum''', (formerly ''''Vadumee'''), is a very influential [[Sangheili]] commander and a high-ranking official in the [[Swords of Sanghelios]].<ref name="catalog">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/forums/db05ce78845f4120b062c50816008e5d/topics/catalog-interaction/4c3e1c6f-6519-4ee0-83a4-4bac13bf07a3/posts?page=96#post953 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Catalog Interaction - Page 48'']</ref> Rtas has become a hero among Sangheili for his bravery and leadership during the Great Schism. He was responsible for negotiating the alliance between the Swords of Sanghelios and the [[United Nations Space Command]].<ref name="enc136">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 136'' (2011)</ref> | ||
Rtas 'Vadum formerly served as a [[Covenant]] [[Special Operations Commander]] in the [[Fleet of Particular Justice]], led by [[Supreme Commander]] [[Thel 'Vadam]]ee, before the [[Battle of Installation 04]]. | Rtas 'Vadum formerly served as a [[Covenant]] [[Special Operations Commander]] in the [[Fleet of Particular Justice]], led by [[Supreme Commander]] [[Thel 'Vadam]]ee, before the [[Battle of Installation 04]].<ref name="visual"/> At the dawn of the [[Great Schism]], 'Vadum became a leading member of the Sangheili who seceded from the Covenant. Leading the separatist fleets, 'Vadum worked together with the newly appointed [[Arbiter]], Thel 'Vadam, to aid the UNSC and defeat the Covenant empire. As the [[shipmaster]] of the ''[[Shadow of Intent]]'' and the [[Fleet Master]] of the [[Fleet of Retribution]], Rtas 'Vadum played a pivotal role in the final year of the [[Human-Covenant War]] and continues to lead the Swords of Sanghelios in battles post-war. | ||
==Biography== | ==Biography== | ||
===Early life=== | ===Early life=== | ||
Born on the [[Sangheili]] homeworld of [[Sanghelios]],<ref name="visual"/> Rtas 'Vadum graduated with honors from the top war college in the [[Iruiru]] region of [[Yermo]], Sanghelios, a distinction he shares with [[Usze 'Taham]].<ref name="Coop">[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=thesoundofsack '''Bungie.net''': ''The Tru7h About Co-Op in Halo 3'']</ref> He would later join the [[Covenant military]]. | |||
===Battle of Installation 04=== | ===Battle of Installation 04=== | ||
[[File:Kusovaitraining.jpg|thumb|250px|Rtas 'Vadumee training with Bero 'Kusovai | [[File:Kusovaitraining.jpg|thumb|250px|Rtas 'Vadumee training with Bero 'Kusovai]] | ||
{{Quote|Though you leave this world, you will come on the [[Great Journey]] when the time comes. Die with honor.|Rtas 'Vadumee mercy killing a infected Sangheili<ref name="HGN" | {{Quote|Though you leave this world, you will come on the [[Great Journey]] when the time comes. Die with honor.|Rtas 'Vadumee mercy killing a [[Flood]]-infected Sangheili<ref name="HGN"/>}} | ||
By [[2552#September|September 2552]], he served in the [[Covenant Special Operations]] division in the [[Special Warfare Group]] as a [[Special Operations Commander]]. Assigned to lead all Special Operation units within the [[Fleet of Particular Justice]], 'Vadumee was stationed aboard the fleet's [[flagship]], ''[[Seeker of Truth]]''. | By [[2552#September|September 2552]], he served in the [[Covenant Special Operations]] division in the [[Special Warfare Group]] as a [[Special Operations Commander]]. Assigned to lead all Special Operation units within the [[Fleet of Particular Justice]], 'Vadumee was stationed aboard the fleet's [[flagship]], ''[[Seeker of Truth]]''.<ref name="enc136"/> Following the [[Fall of Reach]], the fleet pursued {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}} to the [[Soell|Soell system]], where [[Installation 04]] was discovered and [[Battle of Installation 04|a battle]] began. After an emergency beacon was activated on [[Covenant agricultural support ship|agricultural ship]] ''[[Infinite Succor]]'', Rtas 'Vadumee was called to the bridge by [[Supreme Commander]] [[Thel 'Vadam]]ee—shortly after 'Vadumee's training duel with his second-in-command, [[Special Operations Officer|Officer]] [[Bero 'Kusovai]]. 'Vadamee revealed that ''Infinite Succor'' was [[boarding|boarded]] by unknown hostiles that were expected to be [[human]]s. The Supreme Commander tasked Rtas with leading a Special Operations detachment comprised of [[Special Operations Sangheili]] and [[Special Operations Unggoy]] to board the agricultural ship, assess the situation, and rescue the [[Minister of Etiology]] and return him to ''Seeker of Truth''.<ref name="HGN"/><ref name="flood">'''[[Halo: The Flood]]''', ''[[Priority Broadcast Log/Eleventh Cycle, Third Unit]]''</ref> | ||
[[File:Floodlegate.jpg|thumb|250px|left|'Vadumee preparing to destroy ''Infinite Succor'' | [[File:Floodlegate.jpg|thumb|250px|left|'Vadumee preparing to destroy ''Infinite Succor'']] | ||
Taking a [[ | Taking a [[Type-52 Phantom|Phantom]], ''[[Glorious Advance]]'', to ''Infinite Succor'', the team boarded the ship and discovered the remains of [[Huragok]] and [[Unggoy]]. The slaughter of Huragok led the team to question whether the humans were truly responsible for the attack, as they were never so barbaric. Upon entering the vessel's hunting preserve, the team was attacked by mutilated animals infected by the [[Flood]]. The survivors managed to fight their way to the bridge, where 'Vadumee realized the danger of letting the Flood escape and ordered for the bridge be locked down, have warnings sent to the rest of the fleet, and to begin initiating protocols for the ship's [[self-destruct]]ion. After discovering that the Minister of Etiology had survived the Flood's attack by hiding in a hidden security room, the Legate informed 'Vadumee of the Flood's intents and that [[Proto-Gravemind|a central mass]] was forming in the ship. 'Vadumee decided to set the ship's course to the system's sun, however, the Minister insisted for the Special Operations crew to evacuate him to safety and then remotely destroy ''Infinite Succor''. Angered that the Minister was willing to put his own safety before the rest of the Covenant, 'Vadumee took tactical command of the mission. 'Vadumee and three other Sangheili made their way to the vessel's Engineering station to set a [[Slipstream space|slipspace]] course towards the nearby sun, while 'Kusovai led the remaining survivors and the Minister to ''Glorious Advance''. While trekking to Engineering, the three Sangheili were killed by the Flood. Once 'Vadumee reached Engineering, the Minister revealed himself to be infected by the Flood though a view screen, while 'Vadumee was confronted by the infected 'Kusovai. He was able to make a mortal strike at the infected 'Kusovai by allowing the infected officer to strike him along his arm and face, severing his left mandibles. Setting a slipspace course towards the sun, 'Vadumee returned to ''Glorious Advance'' and travelled back to ''Seeker of Truth'' two minutes before the slipspace jump occurred.<ref name="HGN"/> | ||
The sole survivor of the mission, Rtas revealed the threat of the Flood and the Minister's death to Supreme Commander 'Vadamee upon his return to the flagship. In response, 'Vadamee invoked emergency quarantine response throughout the fleet. | The sole survivor of the mission, Rtas revealed the threat of the Flood and the Minister's death to Supreme Commander 'Vadamee upon his return to the flagship. In response, 'Vadamee invoked emergency quarantine response throughout the fleet.<ref name="flood"/> After the battle, Rtas was relieved of fleet duty and reassigned to command all Covenant Special Operations from ''[[High Charity]]''.<ref name="enc136"/> | ||
===Raid on the Threshold gas mine=== | ===Raid on the Threshold gas mine=== | ||
[[File:H2A-Rtas&Co.jpg|thumb|250px|Rtas encouraging his warriors before battle | [[File:H2A-Rtas&Co.jpg|thumb|250px|Rtas encouraging his warriors before battle]] | ||
{{Quote|You are the [[Arbiter]], the will of the [[San'Shyuum|Prophets]], but these are my [[Sangheili|Elites]]. Their lives matter to me, yours does not.|Rtas 'Vadumee, expressing his care for the Sangheili under his command, but not that of the Arbiter<ref name="h2arbiter">'''[[Halo 2]]''', [[campaign]] level ''[[The Arbiter (level)|The Arbiter]]''</ref>}} | {{Quote|You are the [[Arbiter]], the will of the [[San'Shyuum|Prophets]], but these are my [[Sangheili|Elites]]. Their lives matter to me, yours does not.|Rtas 'Vadumee, expressing his care for the Sangheili under his command, but not that of the Arbiter<ref name="h2arbiter">'''[[Halo 2]]''', [[campaign]] level ''[[The Arbiter (level)|The Arbiter]]''</ref>}} | ||
On [[2552#October|October 20, 2552]], Rtas 'Vadumee was assigned to lead a Special Operations unit on [[Raid on the Threshold gas mine|a mission]] to hunt down [[Sesa 'Refumee]], the leader of a [[Sesa 'Refumee's heretic faction|heretic faction]], on a [[Forerunner]] [[Threshold gas mine|gas mining facility]] above the gas giant [[Threshold]]. Joining him was [[Thel 'Vadam|the newly assigned Arbiter]], 'Vadumee's former commander. Aboard a Phantom for the majority of the mission, he provided valuable reinforcements and intelligence reports to the Arbiter as he progressed through the facility. As the Arbiter pursued 'Refumee in a [[Type-26 Banshee|Banshee]], 'Vadumee had his Phantom help the Arbiter eliminate enemy weapons emplacements and Banshees. After tracking the heretic leader to a platform within the gas mine, the Arbiter eliminated all heretics nearby. 'Vadumee and his forces then joined the Arbiter in his search on foot on the platform. | On [[2552#October|October 20, 2552]], Rtas 'Vadumee was assigned to lead a Special Operations unit on [[Raid on the Threshold gas mine|a mission]] to hunt down [[Sesa 'Refumee]], the leader of a [[Sesa 'Refumee's heretic faction|heretic faction]], on a [[Forerunner]] [[Threshold gas mine|gas mining facility]] above the gas giant [[Threshold]]. Joining him was [[Thel 'Vadam|the newly assigned Arbiter]], 'Vadumee's former commander. Aboard a Phantom for the majority of the mission, he provided valuable reinforcements and intelligence reports to the Arbiter as he progressed through the facility. As the Arbiter pursued 'Refumee in a [[Type-26 Banshee|Banshee]], 'Vadumee had his Phantom help the Arbiter eliminate enemy weapons emplacements and Banshees. After tracking the heretic leader to a platform within the gas mine, the Arbiter eliminated all heretics nearby. 'Vadumee and his forces then joined the Arbiter in his search on foot on the platform.<ref name="h2arbiter"/> | ||
Entering the interior of the gas mine, Rtas smelled the "stench" of the Flood—remembering the scent from his mission to ''Infinite Succor''. The team witnessed [[Flood combat form]]s battling Sangheili heretics while traversing through the facility. After briefly conversing with [[holo-drone|a holographic representation]] of 'Refumee, [[ | Entering the interior of the gas mine, Rtas smelled the "stench" of the Flood—remembering the scent from his mission to ''Infinite Succor''. The team witnessed [[Flood combat form]]s battling Sangheili heretics while traversing through the facility. After briefly conversing with [[holo-drone|a holographic representation]] of 'Refumee, [[Flood infection form]]s attacked the group. 'Vadumee ordered for the Arbiter and several Special Operations Sangheili to continue forward through a door, while he awaited reinforcements. As the gas mine was engulfed by a storm raging in Threshold's atmosphere, 'Vadamee encountered 'Refumee, but the heretic leader managed to seal himself behind an unbreakable energy barrier. 'Vadumee and his forces regrouped with the Arbiter, and the latter revealed his intentions to cut the cable supporting the gas mine. The Commander agreed, loaning the Arbiter his [[Type-1 energy sword|energy sword]] for the task. Leaving the Arbiter to his work, 'Vadumee and his remaining forces evacuated in a Phantom. After the Arbiter succeeded in killing 'Refumee and obtaining [[343 Guilty Spark]], [[Tartarus]] picked the two up and all Covenant forces left the system.<ref>'''Halo 2''', campaign level ''[[The Oracle]]''</ref> | ||
=== | ===Search for the Sacred Icon=== | ||
{{Quote|We shall cut into the heart of this infestation, retrieve the Icon, and burn any Flood that stand in our way!|Rtas 'Vadumee<ref name="icon">'''Halo 2''', campaign level ''[[Sacred Icon]]''</ref>}} | {{Quote|We shall cut into the heart of this infestation, retrieve the Icon, and burn any Flood that stand in our way!|Rtas 'Vadumee<ref name="icon">'''Halo 2''', campaign level ''[[Sacred Icon]]''</ref>}} | ||
[[File:H2A - Rtas with Truth.jpg|thumb|250px|left|'Vadumee speaking to the Hierarchs about the Changing of the Guard | [[File:H2A - Rtas with Truth.jpg|thumb|250px|left|'Vadumee speaking to the Hierarchs about the Changing of the Guard]] | ||
Rtas was onboard High Charity when it left for the newly discovered [[Installation 05]] to aid the [[Prophet of Regret|High Prophet of Regret]]. During the [[Battle of Installation 05|battle]] at the installation, 'Vadumee sent in a large group of Phantom [[dropship]]s loaded with reinforcements to stop [[John-117]] before he could assassinate the Hierarch. However, these dropships were called off by the [[Prophet of Truth|High Prophet of Truth]].<ref>'''Halo 2''', campaign level ''[[Regret ( | Rtas was onboard ''[[High Charity]]'' when it left for the newly discovered [[Installation 05]] to aid the [[Prophet of Regret|High Prophet of Regret]]. During the [[Battle of Installation 05|battle]] at the installation, 'Vadumee sent in a large group of Phantom [[dropship]]s loaded with reinforcements to stop [[John-117]] before he could assassinate the Hierarch. However, these dropships were called off by the [[Prophet of Truth|High Prophet of Truth]].<ref>'''Halo 2''', campaign level ''[[Regret (level)|Regret]]''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: Broken Circle]]''', ''page 193''</ref> Back on ''High Charity'', the [[Jiralhanae]] were given the command to [[Changing of the Guard|replace]] the [[Sangheili Honor Guardsman|Sangheili Honor Guardsmen]] in the [[Covenant Honor Guard]] by the [[Hierarchs]], allegedly due to the fact that the [[John-117|"Demon"]] had successfully assassinated the Prophet of Regret and none of the Honor Guard Sangheili guarding the High Prophet could stop him. Because of his position, Rtas expressed his disdain to the High Prophet of Truth and [[Prophet of Mercy|High Prophet of Mercy]], disgusted by this radical switch in tradition and customs, also noting his belief that Regret could have been saved had Truth not halted their attempt to reinforce the Prophet. However, the Prophet of Truth dismissed his complaints and sent Rtas 'Vadumee and his two Sangheili away to inform the [[High Council]] of their decision.<ref name="icon"/> | ||
[[File:H2A-Rtas&Arbiter.jpg|thumb|250px|Rtas retreating to deal with the Flood | [[File:H2A-Rtas&Arbiter.jpg|thumb|250px|Rtas retreating to deal with the Flood]] | ||
Soon after the Changing of the Guard, Rtas and | Soon after the Changing of the Guard, Rtas was involved in the operation against the Flood and the [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]] [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marines]], rendering aid to the Arbiter as he searched for the [[activation index|Sacred Icon]] deep inside the [[Quarantine Zone]] on [[Installation 05]]. Rtas landed inside the Quarantine Zone in an [[orbital insertion pod]] but was separated from his squad during the fall. He held the Covenant camp at the foot of the [[Sentinel wall]] alone until his squad and the Arbiter joined him. The Sangheili then worked together to hold the camp against the Flood until a Phantom delivered reinforcements.<ref name="icon"/> Afterward, Rtas left in a Phantom to command the Sangheili assault towards the [[Library]]. 'Vadumee sent in a squad of his most experienced warriors to aid the Arbiter. Later, he rejoined the Arbiter in a [[Type-46 Spectre]] and helped him push through a Flood barricade to access one of the Forerunner [[Anti-gravity gondola|gondolas]] that were the only way to enter the Library. Rtas stayed behind to hold off the Flood while the Arbiter took the second gondola to reach the Sacred Icon.<ref name="h2zone">'''Halo 2''', campaign level ''[[Quarantine Zone (level)|Quarantine Zone]]''</ref> | ||
===The Great Schism=== | ===The Great Schism=== | ||
{{Quote|The Brutes control that cruiser, Arbiter. I'll remain here, make sure no reinforcements get in behind you. Then, I'm going to take the cruiser back!|Rtas 'Vadum's last words before leaving the Arbiter<ref name="h2journey">'''Halo 2''', campaign level ''[[The Great Journey]]''</ref>}} | {{Quote|The Brutes control that cruiser, Arbiter. I'll remain here, make sure no reinforcements get in behind you. Then, I'm going to take the cruiser back!|Rtas 'Vadum's last words before leaving the Arbiter<ref name="h2journey">'''Halo 2''', campaign level ''[[The Great Journey]]''</ref>}} | ||
[[File:H2A - Rtas in Wraith.png|250px|thumb|left|Rtas in his Wraith | [[File:H2A - Rtas in Wraith.png|250px|thumb|left|Rtas in his Wraith]] | ||
Directly after the Sacred Icon was retrieved on [[2552#November|November 3, 2552]], the Hierarchs ordered the Jiralhanae to execute all Sangheili, beginning the [[Great Schism]] and the fragmentation of the Covenant empire. | Directly after the Sacred Icon was retrieved on [[2552#November|November 3, 2552]], the Hierarchs ordered the Jiralhanae to execute all Sangheili, beginning the [[Great Schism]] and the fragmentation of the Covenant empire.<ref name="h2zone"/> After learning the truth of the Halo rings, 'Vadumee changed his name to '''Rtas 'Vadum''', dropping the "ee" suffix and signifying his secession from the Covenant along with most of his kind. Commandeering a [[Type-26 Wraith|Wraith]], Rtas spotted a [[Type-47 Scarab|Scarab]] walker outside a [[Bastion of the Brutes|Jiralhanae encampment]]. Making his way along the coast, a surprised Rtas met up with the Arbiter, this time on a quest to find the Sacred Icon before Tartarus could use it to activate Installation 05. From the Arbiter he learned of the murder of the [[Sangheili Councilor|Sangheili High Councilors]] and the true extent of the treachery of the Jiralhanae. The two Sangheili were interrupted by the arrival of Tartarus' Phantom and its escorts as they entered the [[Control Room (Installation 05)|installation's control room]].<ref>'''Halo 2''', campaign level ''[[Uprising]]''</ref> Wishing to avenge their fallen brothers, 'Vadum and the Arbiter attacked them by surprise and met up with a squad of [[Mgalekgolo]] and other Sangheili.<ref name="h2journey"/> | ||
There, Rtas 'Vadum again split up with the Arbiter to prevent any Jiralhanae reinforcements from attacking the Arbiter's rear, and was not present when the latter escorted [[Avery Johnson|Sergeant Major Avery Johnson]] to the control room; earlier, he had announced his intent to take back a Covenant {{ | There, Rtas 'Vadum again split up with the Arbiter to prevent any Jiralhanae reinforcements from attacking the Arbiter's rear, and was not present when the latter escorted [[Avery Johnson|Sergeant Major Avery Johnson]] to the control room; earlier, he had announced his intent to take back a Covenant {{Class|CCS|battlecruiser}} that was hovering a distance from the battle area, and it can be assumed he attempted doing so.<ref name="h2journey"/> While the Arbiter fought to kill Tartarus and prevent the firing of Installation 05, 'Vadum led a strikeforce that successfully took control of the Jiralhanae-manned {{Class|CAS|assault carrier}} ''[[Shadow of Intent]]''.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/vehicles/shadow-of-intent '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Shadow of Intent'']</ref> Following Tartarus' death, Rtas 'Vadum sent a message to all Sangheili-controlled vessels to inform them that Tartarus was killed by the Arbiter and the activation of Installation 05 was stopped, but the battle on the Halo continued. The supply ship ''[[Journey's Sustenance]]'' was one of the vessels to receive the message.<ref>'''Halo: Broken Circle''', ''page 256''</ref> | ||
=== | ===Battle of Earth=== | ||
{{Quote|One single Flood spore can destroy a species. Were it not for the Arbiter's counsel, I would have glassed your entire planet!|Rtas 'Vadum to Lord Hood after glassing [[Voi]] to eliminate the Flood threat<ref name="floodgate">'''[[Halo 3]]''', campaign level ''[[Floodgate]]''</ref>}} | {{Quote|One single Flood spore can destroy a species. Were it not for the Arbiter's counsel, I would have glassed your entire planet!|Rtas 'Vadum to Lord Hood after glassing [[Voi]] to eliminate the Flood threat<ref name="floodgate">'''[[Halo 3]]''', campaign level ''[[Floodgate]]''</ref>}} | ||
[[ | Shortly after, Rtas took control of the entire separatist fleet and became one of the highest-ranking individuals in Arbiter Thel 'Vadam's newly-established [[Swords of Sanghelios]] separatist faction. 'Vadum was one of the lead negotiators that worked to parley the alliance with the [[Unified Earth Government]] and the [[UNSC]].<ref name="enc136"/> During the late [[Battle of Earth]], 'Vadum took on the role of [[shipmaster]] in the [[Fleet of Retribution]], a branch of the [[Swords of Sanghelios#Military structure|Swords of Sanghelios' naval force]]. He took command in quarantining Installation 05 and ''High Charity'', and was likely instrumental in destroying the Covenant loyalist fleet still above Halo. However, a single Flood-infected cruiser, ''[[Indulgence of Conviction]]'', broke through the quarantine and headed for the [[Sol system]], with the Sangheili fleet in pursuit. Upon realizing his location, he made contact with the Arbiter.<ref name="enc205">'''Halo Encyclopedia''', ''page 205'' (2011 edition)</ref> He went to [[Earth]] to the aid of the [[human]]s and deployed Sangheili forces to the Arbiter's and John-117's location. Ultimately, he was forced to [[glassing|glass]] a large region of [[Voi]] to destroy the infestation of the Flood. Later, he met with the Arbiter, John-117, [[343 Guilty Spark]], [[Terrence Hood|Fleet Admiral Lord Terrence Hood]] and [[Miranda Keyes|Lieutenant Commander Miranda Keyes]] on the bridge of ''Shadow of Intent''. Guilty Spark managed to repair the [[Covenant storage device|storage device]] that allegedly contained the human [[artificial intelligence|AI]] [[Cortana]]. However, after the [[monitor]] repaired the device, only a messaged played. Cortana revealed in the message that the key to stopping the Covenant and the Flood was on the other side of the recently opened [[Portal at Voi|slipspace portal]]. While Hood remained on Earth with the rest of the [[UNSC Home Fleet]], 'Vadum led the Fleet of Retribution through the portal.<ref name="floodgate"/> | ||
===Battle of Installation 00=== | ===Battle of Installation 00=== | ||
[[File:H3 - Shadow of Intent Bridge.png|thumb|250px|Rtas 'Vadum commanding his fleet in battle]] | |||
{{Quote|no=two | {{Quote|no=two | ||
|1=Sangheili Major | |1=Sangheili Major | ||
Line 88: | Line 72: | ||
|q2=Then it is an even fight. All cruisers, fire at will. Burn their mongrel hides! | |q2=Then it is an even fight. All cruisers, fire at will. Burn their mongrel hides! | ||
|3=Rtas 'Vadum and a [[Sangheili Major]], upon encountering the Prophet of Truth's fleet<ref name="Ark">'''Halo 3''', campaign level ''[[The Ark (level)|The Ark]]''</ref>}} | |3=Rtas 'Vadum and a [[Sangheili Major]], upon encountering the Prophet of Truth's fleet<ref name="Ark">'''Halo 3''', campaign level ''[[The Ark (level)|The Ark]]''</ref>}} | ||
[[ | Rtas and his fleet went through the slipspace portal to lead the [[Battle of Installation 00]] in space, joining forces with Commander Keyes' and two {{Class|Charon|light frigate}}s of the [[UNSC Navy]]'s [[Seventh Fleet]] to destroy [[Truth's fleet|Truth's much larger fleet]]. Upon emerging from slipspace above [[Installation 00]], 'Vadum and his fleet engaged Truth's forces headlong, despite being outnumbered three-to-one. While Keyes' ships provided reinforcements and eliminated Covenant [[Type-31 Seraph|Seraphs]], 'Vadum's fleet engaged the ''CCS''-class battlecruisers.<ref name="Ark"/> After devastating Truth's fleet and discovering that Truth was located on the Ark's surface, 'Vadum led the assault on the [[barrier tower]]s from the ''Shadow of Intent'', bombarding the shield with plasma torpedoes. After the barrier was deactivated, 'Vadum moved the ship over the [[Installation 00 Citadel|Citadel]] and prepared to destroy it, but was knocked off-course by the Flood-infested ''High Charity'' appearing out of slipspace. 'Vadum's ship was incapacitated and its weapons systems were disabled, leaving the task of killing Truth to the Arbiter Thel 'Vadam and John-117.<ref>'''Halo 3''', campaign level ''[[The Covenant (level)|The Covenant]]''</ref> After the death of Truth in the Arbiter's hands, 'Vadum gathered all surviving humans and Sangheili forces on the ship and returned to Earth through the portal, reluctantly leaving the Arbiter behind alongside John-117, Guilty Spark, and Sergeant Johnson.<ref name="H3H">'''Halo 3''', campaign level ''[[Halo (Halo 3 level)|Halo]]''</ref> | ||
===Post Human-Covenant War=== | |||
After the [[Human-Covenant War]], in [[2553]] Rtas and Thel were invited by [[Terrence Hood|Lord Hood]] for a diplomatic mission to attend a ceremony on the [[Voi Memorial]], a tribute to the ones of both the UNSC and the [[Swords of Sanghelios]] who gave their lifes during the Great War. Departing in the ''Shadow of Intent'', he remained on the ship watching Lord Hood's speech while Thel made his presence on land. Shortly after the memorial, he gave the Arbiter the command of the ship and stated that he would like to see [[Sanghelios]] to know that it is safe. The assault carrier then departed for their homeworld.<ref name="H3H"/> | |||
At some point after the war, a San'Shyuum Prelate attempted to lure 'Vadum into a trap.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/community/blog-posts/canon-fodder-shadow-of-intense '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder - Shadow of Intense'']</ref> By [[2558#March|March 2558]], Rtas 'Vadum—along with all other Sangheili administrative and military authorities—was designated a priority target by the [[Office of Naval Intelligence]].<ref name="catalog"/> At some point between May 6th and June 1st, [[2557]], ''Shadow of Intent'' was involved in an operation against [[Piracy|pirates]] in a [[Joint Occupation Zone]]. Around March 2558, an incident took place in which three ONI [[prowler]]s trailing ''Shadow of Intent'' were destroyed under unclear circumstances.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/forums/db05ce78845f4120b062c50816008e5d/topics/catalog-interaction/4c3e1c6f-6519-4ee0-83a4-4bac13bf07a3/posts?page=27#post262 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Catalog Interaction - Page 14'']</ref> | |||
==Personality and traits== | ==Personality and traits== | ||
[[File:Arbiter | [[File:H2A-Arbiter&Rtas-01.jpg|250px|thumb|Rtas 'Vadum and Thel 'Vadam during the raid on the Threshold gas mine]] | ||
Rtas 'Vadum is very switched on and is known for being a quick, smart, and ingenious tactician and an unparalleled fighter, especially with an [[Type-1 energy sword|energy sword]], and is an excellent leader. He is also a good decision-maker and chooses to spend lives very carefully. | Rtas 'Vadum is very switched on and is known for being a quick, smart, and ingenious tactician and an unparalleled fighter, especially with an [[Type-1 energy sword|energy sword]], and is an excellent leader. He is also a good decision-maker and chooses to spend lives very carefully.<ref name="enc136"/> Very much like his friend [[Thel 'Vadam]], Rtas is able to think outside the box and does not rigidly adhere to the Sangheili's code of honor when it does not benefit him. He expresses great care for his soldiers, even the [[Unggoy]]. During the [[Battle of Installation 04]], Rtas displayed great care for all of the soldiers under his command, even warning the Unggoy to take cover behind the Sangheili when danger presented itself.<ref name="HGN"/> Such concern for the lower caste is particularly atypical for Sangheili. He is eager to exact vengeance on the [[Jiralhanae]] and the [[San'Shyuum]] after the [[Great Schism]]. In time, Rtas has begun to have respect for certain humans, [[John-117]] in particular. 'Vadum is one of only two known Sangheili to call John-117 "[[SPARTAN-II program|Spartan]]" rather than "[[Covenant religion#Demons|Demon]]", the other being Thel 'Vadam.<ref name="Ark"/> | ||
[[File:H2A - Rtas rallying troops.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Rtas rallying troops before battle]] | |||
Rtas once served as a high-ranking subordinate to Thel 'Vadam during the latter's career as [[Supreme Commander]] of the [[Fleet of Particular Justice]]. However, 'Vadum lost his esteem in the former Supreme Commander after his failure to safeguard [[Installation 04]].<ref name="h2arbiter"/> Rtas' great trust and respect for Thel 'Vadam was regained after the events of the [[Raid on the Threshold gas mine|mission]] on the [[Threshold gas mine]]. His trust was unwavering during the [[Changing of the Guard]] despite the fact that Thel—as the current Arbiter—answered only to the Prophets.<ref name="icon"/> Later during the Great Schism, Rtas and Thel became the catalysts who united the Sangheili against the Prophets and the Jiralhanae. He acknowledged Thel's "counsel" enough to convince himself that the humans were worthy allies.<ref name="floodgate"/><ref name="enc205"/> | |||
Following | Following his arrival at [[Earth]], 'Vadum had become more calm, possibly because he spent less time fighting on the ground and more time commanding ships. Though he pledged much respect for the humans, 'Vadum was still willing to argue with [[Terrence Hood|Fleet Admiral Hood]] on matters regarding both the Covenant loyalist and [[Flood]] threats, as shown when he revealed that he originally planned to glass Earth after the [[Indulgence of Conviction|Flood-infected ship]] crashed in [[Voi]]. However, this was not because of the general hatred 'Vadum once held towards the humans but to protect the rest of the galaxy from infection, as he did not want to gamble that even one [[Flood spore|spore]] might survive the glassing, and most probably would have had humanity die with what dignity they had left than be used as tools by the [[Gravemind]]. His experience on the ''Infinite Succor'' gave him unique insight into the terrifying nature of the Flood and he takes any threat of infection very seriously.<ref name="floodgate"/> | ||
==Physical appearance== | ==Physical appearance== | ||
Like most [[Sangheili]], 'Vadum had orange eyes. He stands an imposing 7 feet 11 inches tall and weighs 323 pounds. | Like most [[Sangheili]], 'Vadum had orange eyes. He stands an imposing 7 feet 11 inches tall and weighs 323 pounds.<ref name="visual"/> Perhaps the most memorable feature of his appearance is that he is missing his two left mandibles, as they were cut off in a fight with a [[Flood]]-infected [[Bero 'Kusovai]], his second-in-command, during the [[Battle of Installation 04]].<ref name="HGN"/> As such, he is commonly referred to as "Half-Jaw"—a derogatory nickname that is commonly used amongst the [[Jiralhanae]].<ref name="Ark"/> Rtas 'Vadum wore white armor during the final years of the [[Human-Covenant War]]. During his service with the Covenant, he donned standard combat armor that was used by [[Special Operations Commander]]s. Following the dawn of the [[Great Schism]], he began to wear the [[Assault harness]] variant with noticeably larger shoulder pads, with a combat helmet. | ||
==Trivia== | ==Trivia== | ||
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*It is a notable habit of Rtas in ''Halo 2'' to assist the Arbiter but suddenly leave to attend to other matters, usually just before the more difficult part of the mission. This tendency is noticed by Tartarus, who refers to him as a coward. This is most likely to balance the game, since Rtas 'Vadum, a plot-critical character, is invincible. | *It is a notable habit of Rtas in ''Halo 2'' to assist the Arbiter but suddenly leave to attend to other matters, usually just before the more difficult part of the mission. This tendency is noticed by Tartarus, who refers to him as a coward. This is most likely to balance the game, since Rtas 'Vadum, a plot-critical character, is invincible. | ||
*He is one of the few characters to propose a trade in-game, saying to the Arbiter, "Take my blade, I doubt the cable can withstand its bite." The only others are [[Palmer (Marine)|a Marine]] in [[Metropolis]] who offers the Chief a shotgun, and an Elite Major in [[The Great Journey]] that says, "Take my Banshee, Arbiter." | *He is one of the few characters to propose a trade in-game, saying to the Arbiter, "Take my blade, I doubt the cable can withstand its bite." The only others are [[Palmer (Marine)|a Marine]] in [[Metropolis]] who offers the Chief a shotgun, and an Elite Major in [[The Great Journey]] that says, "Take my Banshee, Arbiter." | ||
*Rtas is the only Sangheili to feature the [[Rtas 'Vadum's | *Rtas is the only Sangheili to feature the [[Rtas 'Vadum's Eyes Glitch|eye glitch]] when he uses active camouflage; his green eyes are still visible even though his body is not. It is only seen on the level titled ''The Oracle''. | ||
*There is an interesting glitch in ''Halo 2'' which allows the player to make 'Vadum fly through the air, being attacked by | *There is an interesting glitch in ''Halo 2'' which allows the player to make 'Vadum fly through the air, being attacked by Flood Infection forms. For more information, see [[Flying Half-Jaw|here]]. | ||
==Gallery== | ==Gallery== | ||
<gallery> | <gallery> | ||
File:H2-SpecOps-Elite-Render.jpg|An early render of Rtas 'Vadum in ''Halo 2''. Note that he does not have any missing mandibles. | File:H2-SpecOps-Elite-Render.jpg|An early render of Rtas 'Vadum in ''Halo 2''. Note that he does not have any missing mandibles. | ||
File:H2-RtasVadum.png|Full-body portrait of Shipmaster Rtas 'Vadum in ''Halo 2''. | File:H2-RtasVadum.png|Full-body portrait of Shipmaster Rtas 'Vadum in ''Halo 2''. | ||
File:The Special Ops Leader.png|A frontal view of 'Vadum, showing his missing mandibles. | File:The Special Ops Leader.png|A frontal view of 'Vadum, showing his missing mandibles. | ||
File:Arbiter and Half-Jaw.jpg|Rtas 'Vadumee speaks to the Arbiter, Thel 'Vadamee. | |||
File:Half-jaw.jpg|The Special Operations Commander in the gas mine. | File:Half-jaw.jpg|The Special Operations Commander in the gas mine. | ||
File:Half jaw.JPG|'Vadumee | File:Half jaw.JPG|'Vadumee listening to Truth in ''Halo 2''. | ||
File:Arbitercdr meet.jpg|Rtas 'Vadum prepares to escort the Arbiter to the [[Bastion of the Brutes]]. | File:Arbitercdr meet.jpg|Rtas 'Vadum prepares to escort the Arbiter to the [[Bastion of the Brutes]]. | ||
File:HGN3.jpg|Rtas 'Vadumee on the ''Infinite Succor''. | File:HGN3.jpg|Rtas 'Vadumee on the ''Infinite Succor''. | ||
File:Rtas 'Vadum.jpg|Rtas, commanding ''Shadow of Intent''. | File:Vadum on the Shadow of Intent.jpg|Shipmaster Rtas 'Vadum with his Sangheili aides aboard ''Shadow of Intent''. | ||
File:shipmaster02.jpg|'Vadum argues with Lord Hood aboard ''Shadow of Intent''. | File:Vadum & Vadam.jpg|'Vadum respectfully acknowledges the counsel of 'Vadam, which united humans and Sangheili. | ||
File:Halo 3 - Shipmaster Rtas Vadum.jpg|Rtas on the bridge of ''Shadow of Intent''. | File:Rtas 'Vadum.jpg|Rtas, commanding the ''Shadow of Intent''. | ||
File:shipmaster02.jpg|'Vadum argues with Lord Hood aboard the ''Shadow of Intent''. | |||
File:Halo 3 - Shipmaster Rtas Vadum.jpg|Rtas on the bridge of the ''Shadow of Intent''. | |||
File:Thel_Vadam_and_Rtas_Vadum.jpg|Shipmaster Rtas 'Vadum and Arbiter Thel 'Vadam depart for Sanghelios. | File:Thel_Vadam_and_Rtas_Vadum.jpg|Shipmaster Rtas 'Vadum and Arbiter Thel 'Vadam depart for Sanghelios. | ||
File:H2A - Rtas model.jpg|An early model of Rtas for ''Halo 2: Anniversary''. | File:H2A - Rtas model.jpg|An early model of Rtas for ''Halo 2: Anniversary''. | ||
File:H2A-Arbiter&Rtas.jpg|Rtas 'Vadum and Thel' Vadam before their mission on the Threshold gas mine | File:H2A-Arbiter&Rtas.jpg|Rtas 'Vadum and Thel' Vadam before their mission on the Threshold gas mine | ||
File:H2A-Rtas-02.jpg|Rtas deep inside the Quarantine Zone on Installation 05 | |||
File:H2A-Rtas-02.jpg|Rtas deep inside the Quarantine Zone on Installation 05 | |||
File:H2A - Arbiter and 'Vadum.png|Rtas 'Vadum and Thel 'Vadam converse near [[Control Room (Installation 05)|Delta Halo's control room]]. | File:H2A - Arbiter and 'Vadum.png|Rtas 'Vadum and Thel 'Vadam converse near [[Control Room (Installation 05)|Delta Halo's control room]]. | ||
File:H2A Rtas-Ingame.png|Rtas in-game in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''. | File:H2A Rtas-Ingame.png|Rtas in-game in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''. | ||
HSOI-CoverArt.jpg|Rtas accompanied by a female Sangheili in ''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]''. | |||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
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*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'' | *''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'' | ||
*''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]'' {{Im}} | *''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]'' {{Im}} | ||
*''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]'' | *''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]'' | ||
== | ==Note== | ||
<references group="note"/> | |||
==Sources== | ==Sources== | ||
{{ | {{Reflist|2}} | ||
[[Category:Elites (Characters)]] | |||
[[Category: |