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{{Status|Canon}}
The '''Covenant Speeratists''' are a breakaway faction of the [[Covenant]], led by the [[Elites]] and formed after they were replaced within the Covenant by the [[Brutes]] at the end of [[Halo 2]].
{{Disambig header|the post-war Covenant [[Covenant remnants|splinter faction]]|the [[Halo 5: Guardians]] campaign level|Swords of Sanghelios (level)}}
{{Affiliation infobox
|name=Swords of Sanghelios
|image=[[File:Swords of Sanghelios symbol.png|110px]]<br>The symbol of the Swords of Sanghelios
[[File:H2A - Arbiter & Swords.png|300px]]<br>Thel 'Vadam's modern restoration of the Swords of Sanghelios
|section1-title=Overview
|type=Alliance of keeps{{Ref/Reuse|hwp sos}}
|founder=[[Thel 'Vadam]] {{C|Modern incarnation}}
|documents=
|head=[[Arbiter]]{{Ref/Reuse|hwp sos}}
|executive=
|legislative=[[Council of Kaidons]]{{Ref/Reuse|hwp sos}}
|judicial=
|branch=
|main=
|anthem=
|language=[[Sangheili (language)|Sangheili]]
|script=
|religion=
|techlevel=
|notable=*[[Blooding Years]]
*[[Sangheili-Jiralhanae war]]
*[[Created uprising]]
|formed= Pre-[[938 BCE]]{{Ref/Reuse|hwp sos}}
|reorganized=*c. [[852 BCE]]{{Ref/Reuse|hwp sos}}
*After [[2553#March|March 2553]]{{Ref/Book|Id=Mythos144|HM|Page=144}}
|dissolved=
|affiliation=
}}
{{Quote|We Swords of Sanghelios are united under no less a warrior than the Arbiter himself. He who exposed the countless lies of the San'Shyuum, and drove back the Covenant. The Arbiter shapes our future with deference to our past.|[[Thon 'Kemtra]] on the Swords and the Arbiter.{{Ref/Game|H5G|Detail=[[Mission Intel#Alliance|Mission Intel - Alliance - Sangheili Personal Log 673]]}}}}
The '''Swords of Sanghelios'''{{Ref/Reuse|Mythos144}} is an alliance of [[Sangheili]] [[keep]]s{{Ref/Reuse|soslevel}} and the preeminent governing body on [[Sanghelios]].<ref name="waypoint-thel">[https://archives.halopedia.org/waypoint/www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/characters/arbiter-thel-vadam.html '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Arbiter Thel 'Vadam'']</ref><ref name="hwp sos">[https://archives.halopedia.org/waypoint/www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/factions/swords-of-sanghelios.html '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Swords of Sanghelios'']</ref> Individual members of the faction identify themselves with the title '''Sword of Sanghelios'''.{{Ref/Level|Id=soslevel|H5G|[[Swords of Sanghelios (level)|Swords of Sanghelios]]}}


Originally an ancient Sangheili order, the Swords of Sanghelios was reinstated in the aftermath of the [[Great Schism]] by the latest [[Arbiter]] and the organization's leader, [[Thel 'Vadam]].{{Ref/Site|Id=hwp sangheili|D=01|M=6|Y=2020|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/species/sangheili|Site=Halo Waypoint|Section=Universe, Species|Page=Sangheili|LocalArchive=https://archives.halopedia.org/waypoint/www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/species/sangheili.html}}{{Ref/Reuse|hwp sos}} However, many Sangheili disagreed with his ideals, planning to overthrow the Arbiter and rise against humanity.<ref name="glasslands">'''Halo: Glasslands'''</ref>
==Background==
The [[Covenant]] separatists are made up of the [[Elites|Elite]] (Sangheili), [[Grunts|Grunt]] (Unggoy), [[Hunters|Hunter]] (Lekgolo) and maybe some of the [[Jackals|Jackal]] (Kig-Yar) castes within the Covenant's hierarchical society. This faction was created at the begining of the [[Civil War of the Covenant]] and since then has been fighting the remainder of the [[Covenant]], led by the [[Prophets]] and their [[Brutes|Brute]], [[Drones|Drone]], most and maybe all [[Jackals|Jackal]] and loyal [[Grunts|Grunt]] supporters. It is speculated that this disgruntled faction is lead by [[Half-Jaw]] and/or the [[Arbiter]]. Fronts of this war include [[High Charity]], the Covenant's [[slipspace]]-capable capital, [[Delta Halo]], and areas of space where Covenant ships operate.


==History==
(This is not necessarily the first internal dispute in the Covenant's society; when the current Arbiter was assigned to his office, he was reminded by the [[High Prophet of Mercy]] that an Arbiter was necessary during the [[Grunt Rebellion]], which possibly took place in the [[Age of Doubt]] and was a conflict between the Covenant and its lowest caste, the Grunts or Unggoy.)
===Ancient origins===
[[File:En22 Irsu.png|thumb|200px|right|The Judge-King of Qivro, Irsu 'Labat.]]
Groups known as the "Swords of Sanghelios" have existed in several incarnations throughout history. The first Swords of Sanghelios were a sworn brotherhood of kaidons dedicated to the overthrow of a tyrannical [[Judge-King of Qivro|Arbiter judge-king]] who ruled the continent of [[Qivro]] centuries before the Sangheili became a spacefaring species. Their story of brotherhood, loyalty, honor, and sacrifice continues to resonate among the Sangheili.{{Ref/Reuse|hwp sos}}


Ironically, the last incarnation of the organization prior to its current existence appeared in the tumultuous aftermath of the [[Covenant]]'s formation to subdue the last opposition to the [[Writ of Union]].{{Ref/Reuse|hwp sos}}
==How the faction comes to life==


===Postwar recreation===
The High Prophet of Regret led a botched mission to [[Earth]] and was forced into [[The First Battle of Earth]] upon discovering what turns out to be the UNSC homeworld. He escapes to Delta Halo, but is killed by the Master Chief, which is considered a significant failure in the Elites' mission to protect the leading caste of the Covenant. The Master Chief was assigned on a mission to capture and later kill a member of that caste. The remaining Prophets, led by the High Prophet of Truth, use this opportunity to replace the Elites with Brutes as their guards. However, this move effectively shames and angers the Elites, who have grown accustomed to their comfortable position in the caste system, and they threaten to resign from the High Council.  
{{Main|Postwar}}
{{Quote|The Arbiter has united the [[keep]]s and formed a new alliance, the Swords of Sanghelios!|[[Mahkee 'Chava]] to Fireteam Osiris{{Ref/Reuse|soslevel}}}}
After the Covenant's defeat at the end of the [[Human-Covenant War]], soldiers returned to Sanghelios and found feuding and civil unrest due to the upheaval of the Covenant's social and political moors. Many turned to a reluctant Thel 'Vadam as an ad hoc leader.{{Ref/Site|Id=universe|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/locations/sanghelios|Site=Halo Waypoint|Section=Universe, Locations|Page=Sanghelios|D=13|M=4|Y=2016|LocalArchive=https://archives.halopedia.org/waypoint/www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/locations/sanghelios.html}}


The Swords remained friendly to humanity and wished to build a mutual peace, as they both had made tremendous sacrifices in order to stop Truth and the Covenant forces. On [[Sanghelios|their homeworld]], however, they were challenged by a resurgent faction of religious fanatics known as the [[Servants of the Abiding Truth]]. They viewed the Swords as "blasphemers" and began [[Blooding Years|an insurrection]], secretly supported by the UNSC's [[Office of Naval Intelligence]], all the while resuming the [[Sangheili-Jiralhanae war|conflict]] against the [[Jiralhanae]] in a two-front war. The Abiding Truth managed to gather a large amount of followers in a relatively short timespan; while the faction had a strong religious underpinning, many Sangheili had more practical motives for allying against the Arbiter, among them resentment toward humanity.{{Ref/Reuse|glasslands}}<ref>'''Halo: Glasslands''', ''pages 58-61''</ref> Meanwhile, 'Vadam planned to visit each state to make his case for permanent peace with the [[human]]s they had battled for so many years. These reforms did not meet with universal approval. By [[2553#January|January 2553]], there was great dissent among disparate Sangheili factions, especially from the more devout believers in the [[Forerunner]]s' divinity.<ref>'''Halo: Glasslands''', ''page 130''</ref>
Later, the Elite councillors are assassinated by the Brutes at the behest of the Prophets: this purge, along with the understanding of what the Halos actually are meant to do, help divide the Covenant along the lines seen in the war. Instead of a [[Great Journey]], the Gravemind's revelation regarding the superweapon contradicts the Covenant's belief system and is motivating at least the Arbiter in his eventual opposition to the Convenant as they try to activate Delta Halo later in the game.


====Siege at Kolaar====
== Military Forces: The Elites and their supporters ==
{{Main|Siege at Kolaar}}
[[Avu Med 'Telcam]], leader of the Servants of Abiding Truth, decided that an immediate assault on the state of [[Vadam]] was necessary. Along with nine ships and forces from [[Nuan keep]] and [[Rtova keep]], 'Telcam commanded the assault from the [[Covenant frigate|frigate]] ''[[Unflinching Resolve]]''.<ref>'''Halo: The Thursday War''', ''page 114''</ref> Eventually, however, the ''Unflinching Resolve'' suffered a direct hit and crash landed, though most of the crew, including 'Telcam, survived. Despite being caught off-guard it appeared as though the Swords of Sanghelios would be victorious, however, news spread that he allowed humans to land on Sanghelios; this caused many keeps to ally with the Servants of Abiding Truth and the tide turned in their favor. The Arbiter was caught off guard and when his own reinforcements couldn't arrive on time, he reluctantly accepted [[Admiral]] [[Terrence Hood]]'s offer for help in fending off the attackers. The tide turned when {{UNSCShip|Infinity}} arrived over Sanghelios and destroyed the rebel destroyer ''[[Defender of Faith]]'' before finishing off the rebel ground forces with a [[MAC]] round. The {{UNSCShip|Port Stanley}}, posed as a [[Kig-Yar]] pirate ship, destroyed a few of 'Vadam's ships in order to maintain the stalemate between the two factions, leaving the Arbiter with a Pyrrhic victory.


After the battle, Thel 'Vadam was in talks to visit the UNSC ''Infinity'' while 'Telcam retreated to [[New Llanelli]] until he would be able to convince more keeps to join his cause.<ref>'''Halo: Mortal Dictata''', ''page 122''</ref> At some point, the {{Pattern|Ket|battlecruiser}} ''[[Pious Inquisitor]]'' fell into the hands of the Abiding Truth. In turn, Kig-Yar [[piracy|pirate]] [[Sav Fel]] stole the ''Inquisitor'', with the intention to sell it on [[Venezia]].<ref>'''Halo: The Thursday War''', ''page 329''</ref> With 'Vadam occupied with the ongoing civil war, [[Kilo-Five]] was tasked with retrieving the ''Inquisitor'' with the purpose of reverse-engineering its energy projector for use against Sangheili-controlled worlds, though the ship was ultimately destroyed.<ref>'''Halo: Mortal Dictata''', ''page 436''</ref>
Commanded by Half-Jaw and the Arbiter. Includes Elite, Grunt and Hunter castes, along with loyal ships of various classes to their cause. Also involved in this faction is the [[UNSC]]'s most effective [[Spartan]], the [[Master Chief]]; through an alliance of convenience, he is meant to stop the Prophet of Truth and his guards at the behest of the [[Gravemind]], the effective leader of the [[Flood]]. The Arbiter, meanwhile, is meant to recover the Index and prevent its activation by the Prophets and their proxies.


Following these events, the allied forces on Sanghelios consolidated under the old banner of the Swords of Sanghelios.{{Ref/Reuse|Mythos144}}
== See Also ==


[[File:HM-BloodingYears.jpg|250px|thumb|right|Thel 'Vadam and his allies engaging other hostile Sangheili forces.]]
*[[Civil War of the Covenant]]
===Blooding Years===
*[[Heretics]]
{{Main|Blooding Years}}
Over the next six years, the Swords would engage in hostilities with several Sangheili factions. Fighting with [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction]] saw the flagship ''[[Shadow of Intent]]'' temporarily rendered combat ineffective.<ref name="Catalog">[https://forums.halowaypoint.com/yaf_postsm2969315_Catalog-Interaction.aspx#post2969315 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Catalog Interaction - Page 14'']</ref>


In [[2553]], a [[Joint Occupation Zone]] was also set up between the Swords of Sanghelios and the [[United Nations Space Command]], with both humans and ex-[[Covenant]] species settling on the territory's within the zone.{{Ref/Comic|HEsc|Issue=11}} On [[2553#July|July 2, 2553]], Lord Hood would proposition the [[Anvil Initiative]] to the Arbiter as a joint venture between the UNSC and the Swords.{{Ref/Book|Id=HAA|Halo: Anvil Accord}}


In March of [[2555]], Swords forces would thwart a plot by [[Otar 'Bemet]] to take revenge against the Arbiter. At the same time, the UNSC requested the Arbiters aid in [[Operation: FAR STORM|re-activating]] the [[Portal at Voi]] in order to dispatch a team there to disable the activation sequence of the [[Halo Array]]. However, due to the bulk of the Swords forces being preoccupied in the ongoing civil war, 'Vadam was only able to send a [[Mayhem|Corvette]] with a small strike team of Sangheili to aid the humans.{{Ref/Novel|HitD|Chapter=3}}
[[Category: Factions]]
 
===Sangheili-Jiralhanae war===
Simultaneously, the Sangheili would also continue to wage [[Sangheili-Jiralhanae war|war]] against the remaining [[San'Shyuum]] and the [[Jiralhanae]]. At first, the Sangheili were at a major disadvantage, as millennia of depending on the San'Shyuum for technology meant that the Sangheili were unable to properly repair or replace the ships they lost in battle. The odds began to even out when the San'Shyuum vanished and the Jiralhanae began to fall back into internecine conflicts.<ref>'''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''', ''"[[The Return]]"''</ref> The inability for the Jiralhanae to properly mine the resources on their colonies has also forced them to raid Sangheili worlds for their processed resources. Tensions with the Swords of Sanghelios and the [[Children of Oth Sonin]] have also increased due to raids on settlements within the [[Joint Occupation Zone]].{{Ref/Comic|Id=HE1|HEsc|Issue=1}}
[[File:HE Spartans Ealen IV.png|left|thumb|250px|Thel 'Vadam, his escorts, and the rest of the peace delegation.]]
====Peace talks====
In [[2558#March|March 2558]], the Swords of Sanghelios attempted peace talks with the [[Children of Oth Sonin]], represented by their lead, Jiralhanae chieftain [[Lydus]], on [[Ealen IV]]. Thel 'Vadam, with several Sangheili escorts, led the negotiations. [[Admiral]] [[Terrence Hood]] volunteered to moderate the talks between the two governments. However, the meeting was interrupted by a [[Battle of Ealen IV|surprise attack]] by [[Vata 'Gajat's mercenary group|mercenaries]] under the command of [[Shipmaster]] [[Vata 'Gajat]]. [[Captain (Navy)|Captain]] [[Thomas Lasky]], [[Sarah Palmer|Commander Sarah Palmer]], and the [[SPARTAN-IV Program|Spartan-IVs]] defended the delegation and evacuated them from the chamber.{{Ref/Reuse|Id=HE1}} After various tribulations in getting the delegation to safety arose from the attack, the delegation and the surviving Spartans finally made it to safety aboard [[UNSC Infinity]]. Following the boarding of the Infinity, the [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]] led the Sangheili and Jiralhanae fleets against the enemy fleet, forcing the Shipmaster to order a retreat. Due to Vata 'Gajat's attack, the negotiations were left in a standstill and little progress was made in furthering the peace between the Sangheili and the Jiralhanae.<ref>'''Halo: Escalation''', ''Issue #3''</ref>
{{Clear}}
 
===Created uprising===
[[File:H5G-SOSrally.png|thumb|250px|The Arbiter rallying his forces prior to striking Sunaion.]]
{{Main|Created uprising}}
====Global war====
{{Quote|Hunt them to the last. Today we extinguish the Covenant's light forever!|Arbiter Thel 'Vadam, as the Swords of Sanghelios eliminates Jul 'Mdama's remaining Covenant forces{{Ref/Reuse|BOS}}}}
{{Main|Sanghelios global war}}
In October 2558, Sanghelios burst into global war{{Ref/Novel|LoO|Chapter=21}} with Jul 'Mdama's Covenant attacking the Swords. The Arbiter received assistance from the UNSC's [[Fireteam Osiris]], who were searching for [[John-117|MCPO John-117]], in repelling the invasion.{{Ref/Reuse|soslevel}} After intense battles along the coast in [[Nuusra]], the Swords of Sanghelios eventually pushed [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant]] back to their final stronghold: [[Sunaion]], where 'Mdama's Covenant was finally defeated. Meanwhile, a [[Guardian]] that had lain buried beneath the [[Csurdon Sea]] emerged and departed for [[Genesis]]. Eventually Thel Vadam was successful in leading the Swords of Sanghelios in eliminating 'Mdama's remaining Covenant forces in the damaged city, ending the battle.{{Ref/Reuse|BOS}} Later on the Swords provided safe haven for surviving UNSC forces when [[Cortana]] and her [[Created]] took control of most of Earth's colonies.{{Ref/Site|Id=CFDF|https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-driving-force|Site=Halo Waypoint|Section=News, Canon Fodder|Page=Driving Force|LocalArchive=https://archives.halopedia.org/waypoint/www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-driving-force.html|D=01|M=6|Y=2020}}
 
====Occupation and Netherop====
{{Main|Subjugation of Sanghelios}}
With the Sangheili resisting the Created's rule, Cortana sent a Guardian and Forerunner soldiers to pacify Sanghelios, starting with its major cities.{{Ref/Novel|BadB|Chapter=1}} The UNSC reinforced the Swords of Sanghelios with its expeditionary forces, conducting joint patrols to monitor and defend the Sanghelios badlands from Created scouts and any remnant of [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant]] still present on the planet.{{Ref/Reuse|CFDF}}
 
In 2559, 'Vadam would participate in the [[High Gathering]] where he would propose the [[Concert of Worlds]],{{Ref/Reuse|outchapt1}} as a means of unifying the Sangheili. As well, [[Oath Warden]] [[Crei 'Ayomuu]] would inform Thel 'Vadam of a potential [[Divine Hand|anti-Guardian weapon]] located on [[Netherop]].{{Ref/Reuse|outchapt2}} 'Vadam would call for aid from colonial allies and would personally [[Battle of Netherop (2559)|travel]] to the planet to begin a search for it.{{Ref/Novel|Id=outchapt4|Out|Chapter=4}}
[[File:HINF PrismSkybox.png|left|thumb|250px|The Swords of Sanghelios in combat with the Banished at Suban.]]
 
===New conflicts===
With the Created severely weakened at the [[Battle for Zeta Halo]], remaining forces in the Urs system relinquished much of their control. This created a power vaccuum in the system. Although, many keeps and kaidons on Sanghelios maintained their support for the Arbiter and Swords. Other kaidons searched for different divisions of power. This allowed the [[Banished]] to move in to the system.{{Ref/Novel|Id=blood-moon|Halo: Battle for the Blood-Moon}}
 
Seeking to exploit the [[Kemuksuru]] on [[Suban]], the Banished had either taken over or created the [[Mines of Shua'ree]].{{Ref/Reuse|blood-moon}} The Swords of Sanghelios moved to support some local keeps in protecting high-value mining sites.{{Ref/Book|Enc22|Page=230}} This resulted in a [[Battle of Suban|confrontation]] between the Swords' [[Sanghelios home defense fleet]] and Banished forces stationed at and on the moon in early [[2560]].{{Ref/Reuse|blood-moon}}{{Ref/Map|HINF|Prism}}
 
On [[2560#March|March 3, 2560]], local Swords forces at Anvil Station along with their UNSC allies were deployed to a distress call from [[Nysa]].{{Ref/Reuse|HAA}}
{{clear}}
 
==Government and politics==
===Modern===
{{Quote|The Arbiter's [[Fleet of Retribution|forces]] eventually consolidated their strength under a single banner, the Swords of Sanghelios, an ancient title of honor expressing the nobility of their cause: the unification of the Sangheili people.|[[Curator]] on the formation of the Swords of Sanghelios{{Ref/Reuse|Mythos144}}}}
An alliance of [[Sangheili]] [[keep]]s, the Swords of Sanghelios is governed by a [[Council of Kaidons|grand council]] of [[kaidon]]s, with [[Arbiter]] [[Thel 'Vadam]] serving as the organization's formal leader. Although it was originally formed as an alliance of convenience, the Swords effectively became Sanghelios' world government during the Blooding Years.{{Ref/Reuse|hwp sos}}
 
===Relations===
====Sangheili Colonies====
Several [[Sangheili colonies]] have demonstrated allegiance to the Swords of Sanghelios.{{Ref/Reuse|outchapt4}}{{Ref/Novel|Id=soi17|SOI|Chapter=17}} Two of the Swords' most loyal allies included [[kaidon]] [[Ghe 'Talot]] and his clan on [[Feldokra]], as well as the relatively new colony of [[Om'a'Varo]] through [[Olabisi Varo'dai]]s personal relationship with 'Vadam himself.{{Ref/Reuse|outchapt4}} Similarly to the settling of [[Om'a'Varo]], [[Thel 'Vadam|Thel]] guided his ally [[Rojka 'Kasaan]] and the survivors of the [[Operation: SUNSPEAR|destruction of Glyke]] to resettle on the former Human Colony of [[Carrow]] within the [[Joint Occupation Zone]].{{Ref/Novel|Env}} Other notable Sangheili colonies that chose to ally themselves with the Swords include [[Duraan]]{{Ref/Reuse|soi17}} and [[Rahnelo]].{{Ref/Novel|Id=SoI81|Halo: Shadow of Intent|Page=81 (Google Play edition)}}
 
The Swords have also charged their [[Fleet of Recalcitrant Ire|fleets]] with the protection of a number of allied resource rich worlds, as well as utilizing many of their vessels in the transport of many [[Ussans|Ussan]] refugees to [[Sanghelios]].{{Ref/Site|Id=CFFire|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/canon-fodder-covering-fire|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - Covering Fire|D=31|M=01|Y=2024}}
 
In addition, the [[Ascetics]] and Swords of Sanghelios enjoy a positive relationship, with [[Usze 'Taham]] acting as a liaison between them.{{Ref/Site|https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/characters/usze-taham|Site=Halo Waypoint|Section=Universe, Characters|Page=Usze 'Taham|LocalArchive=https://archives.halopedia.org/waypoint/www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/characters/usze-taham.html|D=01|M=6|Y=2020}} At least one other member of the Ascetics served as a bodyguard for the Arbiter and was killed during the Ealen peace conference.{{Ref/Comic|Id=HE2|HEsc|Issue=2}}
[[File:Joint Operation 2015-06-16 01-46.jpg|thumb|right|250px|The Swords of Sanghelios and Fireteam Osiris during the Battle of Sunaion.]]
====Unified Earth Government====
{{Quote|multi=yes|q1=Arbiter's an ally, so these dead here are our brothers as far as I'm concerned.|Edward Buck|q2=Agreed. Time for payback.|Holly Tanaka|Spartans Edward Buck and Holly Tanaka during the Battle of Nuusra{{Ref/Reuse|soslevel}}}}
A [[Treaty of 2552|formal treaty]] was signed between the Swords and the [[Unified Earth Government]], setting up the [[Joint Occupation Zone]]s, which would be administered and defended by both the UEG and the Sangheili. In addition to joint military exercises against [[Piracy|pirates]] in the Joint Occupation Zones,{{Ref/Reuse|Catalog}} the Swords and the UNSC made a cooperative effort to restore contact with remote [[human colonies]] after the war; the corvette ''[[The Lookout]]'', crewed by UNSC and Swords personnel, embarked on such a mission in early [[2553]].{{Ref/Anthology|Fra|[[Breaking Strain]]}} Several colony worlds residing in the Joint Occupation Zone were established under joint UEG/Sangheili governance. Among these was [[Carrow]], a former Outer Colony abandoned during the [[Human-Covenant War]].{{Ref/Anthology|Fra|[[Oasis]]}}
[[File:HINF - Emblem icon - Blades and Barbs.png|thumb|left|150px|Campaign design for Spartans working with the Swords on Suban.]]
The UNSC and the Sangheili worked together on archival research on Sanghelios,<ref name="C1">[https://forums.halowaypoint.com/yaf_postsm2969317_Catalog-Interaction.aspx#post2969317 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Catalog Interaction'' (post 2969317)]</ref> as well as joint investigations on Covenant weaponry, such as the [[Type-33 Needler]].<ref>[https://forums.halowaypoint.com/yaf_postsm2969311_Catalog-Interaction.aspx#post2969311 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Catalog Interaction'' (post 2969311)]</ref> Additionally, a [[Onyx United Research Project|major joint research project]] and [[Paxopolis|settlement]] was established by the UNSC and the Swords at [[Trevelyan]], the enormous [[shield world]] located at the former site of [[Onyx]].{{Ref/Anthology|Fra|[[Lessons Learned]]}} As part of the [[ANVIL initiative]], Sangheili military personnel train with [[SPARTAN-IV program|Spartan-IVs]] inside the [[War Games]] simulator aboard [[Anvil Station]].<ref name="Have S'moa">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-have-s-moa '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Canon Fodder: 2-20-15'']</ref> [[Fireteam Jorogumo]] were loaned to the Swords thanks to a treaty between the two factions.{{Ref/Reuse|blood-moon}}
 
In the wake of the Covenant War, the Swords of Sanghelios are often viewed as representing the Sangheili on the whole in their diplomatic relations with humanity.{{Ref/Reuse|glasslands}} Though some humans have mistakenly referred to them as "the Covenant".<ref>'''[[Halo: Nightfall]]'''</ref>
 
By [[2558]], the UNSC's ambassador to them was [[Rear Admiral]] [[Horatio Temkin]].{{Ref/Comic|Id=HE5|HEsc|Issue=5}}
{{Clear}}
====The Jiralhanae====
The Jiralhanae have remained a thorn in the side of the Swords, with the [[Sangheili-Jiralhanae war]] continuing to rage on.{{Ref/Reuse|HE1}} Due to the wealth the Swords had amassed over the years following the Human-Covenant War, several Jiralhanae factions have marked them as the perfect target for raiding, leading to increased conflict. The Swords and a powerful faction of the Jiralhanae known as the [[Children of Oth Sonin]] attempted to establish an official peace between them in 2558. However, this effort was [[Attack on Ealen IV|disrupted]] by [[Vata 'Gajat]]'s [[Vata 'Gajat's mercenary group|mercenaries]] and no peace was agreed upon.{{Ref/Comic|HEsc|Issue=2}}{{Ref/Comic|Id=HE3|HEsc|Issue=3}}
 
====Covenant remnants====
The Swords of Sanghelios are opposed by and are hostile in regards to several other [[Covenant remnants|Covenant remnant factions]], such as [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant]],{{Ref/Reuse|hwp sangheili}}{{Ref/Novel|LoO|Chapter=5}}{{Ref/Reuse|soslevel}} the [[Servants of the Abiding Truth]],{{Ref/Novel|Id=Out3|Out|Chapter=3}}, the previously mentioned [[Vata 'Gajat's mercenary group]], and recently the [[Banished]].{{Ref/Site|Id=WaypointS5Maps|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/maps-overview-season-5|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Maps Overview - Season 5|D=12|M=10|Y=2023}}
{{clear}}
 
==Society and culture==
The Swords of Sanghelios look to return the Sangheili to their ancient, pre-Covenant independence and nobility.{{Ref/Reuse|hwp sangheili}} Specifically, the Swords were in pursuit of the creation of a single union of all Sangheili worlds.{{Ref/Novel|Id=outchapt2|Out|Chapter=2}} Their proposed union, would come from the Arbiter as the [[Concert of Worlds]].{{Ref/Novel|Id=outchapt1|Out|Chapter=1}}
 
In general, most of the Arbiter's followers no longer revere the Forerunners as gods.<ref>'''Halo: Hunters in the Dark''', ''page 62'' (Google Play edition)</ref> This has provoked the anger of many of their enemies, mainly the [[Servants of the Abiding Truth]].<ref>'''Halo: Glasslands''', ''page 20''</ref> However, the Arbiter has never explicitly denied the Forerunners as gods, and has assured other Sangheili that they have not lost the gods.<ref>'''Halo: Glasslands''', ''page 59''</ref>
 
{{Expand-section}}
 
== Military structure ==
[[File:H5G-gruntnelitesittinginatree.png|thumb|275px|A Sangheili Storm and [[Dimkee Hotay]] on Sanghelios.]]
The Swords of Sanghelios have an open military service. This means that the military isn't solely composed of male Sangheili; female Sangheili, [[Unggoy]], and [[Kig-Yar]] could also partake in the military and even achieve high ranks and titles.{{Ref/Reuse|blood-moon}}<ref>'''Halo: Shadow of Intent''', ''page 24'' (Google Play edition)</ref>{{Ref/Reuse|soslevel}} Even the [[Lekgolo]] could participate.<ref>[https://www.halowaypointstore.com/p/halo_swords_of_sanghelios_premium_tee.html '''Halo Waypoint Store''' - ''Swords of Sanghelios Tee'']</ref> The decision for open service occurred following the precedent of [[Tul 'Juran]], who distinguished herself in combat alongside [[Rtas 'Vadum]]'s crew against [[Tem'Bhetek]] and his forces.<ref>'''Halo: Shadow of Intent''', ''page 82'' (Google Play edition)</ref>
 
Crimson and ivory,<ref>'''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]''', ''page 72''</ref> or red-gold<ref name="CFAA">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/forums/db05ce78845f4120b062c50816008e5d/topics/canon-fodder-1-8-16-annual-achievements/ca5fc3ce-2113-45bf-9f4e-e9990132f18b/posts?page=2#post37 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder 1-8-16: Annual Achievements'']</ref> armor indicates some form of affiliation to the Swords of Sanghelios, though there are armors painted in other colors, such as blue.{{Ref/Reuse|HE1}}
 
The Swords of Sanghelios also established the [[Riftborn]], a new special operations division, fully committed to joint military operations with the UNSC. These hand-selected operatives maintain a local presence on [[Anvil Station]].{{Ref/Book|Id=EN|Enc22|Page=251}}
 
{| class="wikitable" style="width:660px; margin:4px auto; text-align:center;"
|-
!Classes
![[Sangheili]]
![[Unggoy]]
![[Kig-Yar]]
![[Lekgolo]]
|-
|colspan="5" | Ranks and type classes
|-
|Standard ranks
|[[Sangheili Minor|Minor]]<br>[[Sangheili Storm|Storm]]
|[[Unggoy Storm|Storm]]
|
|[[Mgalekgolo]]
|-
|Specialized troops
|[[Sangheili Ranger|Ranger]]<br>[[Commando Unit|Commando]]<br>[[Special Operations Officer|SpecOps]]
|[[Unggoy Ranger|Ranger]]
|[[Kig-Yar Sniper|Sniper]]
|
|-
|Veterans
|[[Commander (Covenant)|Commander]]<br>[[Evocati|Ultra]]
|
|
|
|-
|colspan="5" | Titles
|-
|Ratings
|[[Blademaster]]<br>[[Shipmaster]]<br>[[Fleet Master]]<br>[[Arbiter]]
|[[Scannermaster]]<br>[[Shipmaster]]
|
|
|}
 
==Military assets==
[[File:SwordOfHarmony.png|thumb|right|250px|A modified ''A'uzr''-pattern sword frigate, ''[[Sword of Harmony]]''.{{Ref/Reuse|CFConcert}}]]
The Swords of Sanghelios utilized much of the same equipment that the original Covenant used, but modified the designs due to the lack of restriction from the former Prophets. Most [[Unggoy]] used the [[Type-25 plasma pistol]],<ref name="SOI">'''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]'''</ref> [[Type-54 plasma pistol]],{{Ref/Level|Id=Alliance|H5G|[[Alliance]]}} [[Type-33 Needler]],{{Ref/Reuse|C1}} and [[Type-56D needler]],{{Ref/Reuse|Alliance}} while [[Sangheili]] personnel were typically armed with the {{Pattern|Okarda'phaa|plasma rifle}},<ref name="Mythos142">'''Halo Mythos''', ''pages 142-143''</ref> {{Pattern|Nakata'vho|plasma repeater}},{{Ref/Reuse|outchapt1}}{{Pattern|Zubo|beam rifle}},{{Ref/Reuse|soslevel}} {{Pattern|Gadulo|needle rifle}},{{Ref/Reuse|CFAA}} {{Pattern|Elo'Nakada|concussion rifle}},<ref>[https://twitter.com/GrimBrotherOne/status/781987887726198784 '''Twitter''' - ''GrimBrotherOne'']</ref> {{Pattern|Mosa|carbine}},<ref name="HitD">'''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]'''</ref> {{Ref/Reuse|H5G}} {{Pattern|Tufasumo|plasma caster}},{{Ref/Reuse|soslevel}} {{Pattern|Kelos'vaarda|storm rifle}},<ref name="H5G">'''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'''</ref> {{Pattern|Erudo'ma'keth|pulse carbine}},{{Ref/Reuse|blood-moon}}{{Pattern|Gespu|fuel rod gun}},{{Ref/Reuse|REQs}} and the [[Type-1 energy sword]].{{Ref/Reuse|H5G}} Several of their energy swords, most notably the [[Prophets' Bane]], were shaped in new designs based on pre-Covenant fashions.<ref>[https://archives.halopedia.org/waypoint/www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/prophets%E2%80%99-bane.html '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Prophets' Bane'']</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]''', ''page 53''</ref>
 
Like the original Covenant the [[Type-26 Banshee]] remained as the main aircraft of the faction for much of the Blooding Years.{{Ref/Reuse|REQs}} While {{Pattern|Kez'katu|Phantom}}s and {{Pattern|Taaku Xur|Spirit}}s were used by the Swords to some capacity,{{Ref/Reuse|HSOI}}  {{Pattern|Ru'swum|Phantom}}s were used as the main troop transports, although these sported a green color instead of the usual purple and utilized [[active camouflage]].{{Ref/Reuse|HE1}} The Swords used orange-painted {{Pattern|Bmur'resh|Shade}}s{{Ref/Reuse|soslevel}} and {{Pattern|Upisa'weri|Shrike}}s<ref name="Shrike">[https://archives.halopedia.org/waypoint/www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/shrike-turret.html '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Shrike Turret'']</ref> for static defense. As the Covenant fragmented and technology changed, the Swords began using more individualized craft. They began manufacturing Sword variants of [[Type-54 Ghost#Sword Ghost|the Type-54 Ghost]], {{Pattern|Kemu|Wraith}}, and [[D'nomlhe-pattern Banshee#Sword Banshee|D'nomlhe-pattern Banshee]], which had orange-painted plating and more durable armor than their Covenant versions.<ref name="REQs">'''Halo 5: Guardians''', ''REQ card descriptions''</ref> The Swords were known to also use the {{Pattern|Muv'te|anti-aircraft Wraith}} for mobile ground-to-air defense, with some units stylizing theirs in iridescent green as an homage to the [[Covenant separatists]].{{Ref/Site|Id=BH|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/bounty-hunters|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Cannon Fodder - Bounty Hunters|D=09|M=07|Y=2021}} The faction also used crimson-orange {{Pattern|Kmiro'sish|Lich}}es, {{Pattern|Mikpramu|Phantom}}s, and {{Pattern|Nuro'k Xur|Spirit}}s,
though it is unclear if these also had improved armor.<ref>'''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''', ''campaign level [[The Heretic]] ([[The Heretic#Target Locke|Anniversary Prologue]])</ref>{{Ref/Reuse|H5G}} {{Ref/Site|Id=Waypoint|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/vehicles?page=2|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Universe|Detail=Spirit page description|Quote=The Spirit serves as a dropship and utility craft in Covenant and Swords of Sanghelios armies.|D=27|M=10|Y=2015}}<br>
 
The Swords' naval forces are composed of multiple [[assault carrier]]s (numerous {{Pattern|Kerel|assault carrier}}s and at least one {{Pattern|Syfon|assault carrier}}), {{Pattern|Ket|battlecruiser}}s, {{Pattern|Sinaris|heavy destroyer}}s,{{Ref/Reuse|HE1}} {{Pattern|Zanar|light cruiser}}s,{{Ref/Map|HINF|[[Prism]]}}, at least one {{Pattern|Ceudar|heavy corvette}},{{Ref/Reuse|HitD}} and at least one {{Pattern|Makar|light corvette}}. The Swords have also commissioned the [[Kolaar Manufactorum]] to help continue in the creation of new {{Pattern|A'uzr|sword frigate}}s.{{Ref/Site|Id=CFConcert|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/canon-fodder-concert-of-words|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - Concert of Worlds|D=25|M=09|Y=2023}} The Swords possess the majority of the {{Pattern|Lursu|brigantine}}s in service following the Covenant War.{{Ref/Book|Enc22|Page=271}} They also made use of other ancient Sangheili ships like {{Pattern|Hekar Taa|blockade runner}}s,  {{Pattern|Rwaru|carrack}}s and {{Pattern|R'sikosh|man o' war}}s.{{Ref/Level|Id=BTS|H5G|[[Before the Storm]]}}{{Ref/Level|Id=BOS|H5G|[[Battle of Sunaion (level)|Battle of Sunaion]]}}
=== Units ===
{{Featurelist|secondcolumn=title-3|state=plain
|title-1=Fleet units|
*[[Sanghelios home defense fleet]]
*[[Fleet of Retribution]]
*[[Fleet of Recalcitrant Ire]]{{Ref/Reuse|CFFire}}
*Unidentified fleet at the [[Battle of Ealen IV]]
*Unidentified fleet at the [[Battle of Sunaion]]
|title-2=Individual ships|
*{{Pattern|Kerel|assault carrier}}
**''[[Shadow of Intent]]''
*{{Pattern|Ket|battlecruiser}}
**''[[Pious Inquisitor]]'' {{C|stolen}}
*{{Pattern|Ceudar|heavy corvette}}
**''[[Mayhem]]'' {{C|Damaged in 2555}}
*{{Pattern|Makar|light corvette}}
**''[[The Lookout]]''
*{{Pattern|A'uzr|sword frigate}}
**''[[Sword of Harmony]]'' {{c|destroyed}}
**''[[Sword of Conjunction]]''
*{{Pattern|Zanar|light cruiser}}
**''[[Bad Gas]]''
*{{Pattern|Hekar Taa|blockade runner}}
**''[[Scorrin's Blade]]''
*Unknown type of Cruiser
**''[[Swordsman (ship)|Swordsman]]''
*Unknown
**''[[Havoc]]''
**''[[Onslaught (ship)|Onslaught]]''
**''[[Revolution (ship)|Revolution]]''
|title-3=Aerial forces|
*[[Jardam Wing]]<ref name="h5genemylines">'''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''', campaign level ''[[Enemy Lines]]''</ref>
*[[Lar Wing]]
*[[Siqtar Wing]]
*[[Zeshk Wing]]
*Jointly operated
**[[Amity Wing]]
**[[Harmony Wing]]
**[[Sympathy Wing]]
|title-4=Ground forces|
*[[Riftborn]]
}}
 
==Gallery==
<Gallery>
File:Escalation_schism.png|A [[Sangheili Minor]] and a [[Jiralhanae Captain Major]] fighting in a [[Joint-Occupation Zone]] in ''[[Halo: Escalation]]''.
File:Ealen IV.jpg|Swords of Sanghelios and [[Children of Oth Sonin]] ships over Ealen IV.
File:Thel 2558.png|Thel 'Vadam and escort on Ealen IV in 2558.
File:Locke&SangheiliMajor.png|A Sword of Sanghelios with Jameson Locke in ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''.
File:MCC - Locke and Arbiter.png|'Vadam, Locke and their respective forces prepare to engage [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction|Covenant]] forces.
File:Sword of Sanghelios storms ready for battle.png|Swords of Sanghelios combat-ready in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
File:Swords of Sanghelios defence.jpg|Two Sword of Sanghelios Storms defending the [[Elder Council Chamber]] and one Sword Wraith.
File:SOSE3.png|A Sangheili Storm working on formation logistics before an aerial assault on a {{Pattern|Shuul'se|Kraken}}.
File:SOSGrunt.png|An Unggoy Storm on Sangheilios.
File:SOSElite.png|A Sangheili Storm standing on guard on Sangheilios.
File:SOSE2.png|A Sangheili on Sangheilios.
File:SOSEArbiter.png| Several Sangheili alongside Thel 'Vadam on Sangheilios.
File:SOSEArbiter2.png|Thel 'Vadam and a Sangheili before an assault on a Kraken.
File:SOSArbiter.png|Thel 'Vadam on Sangheilios.
File:H5G-Dimkee&friends.png|Swords of Sanghelios work and relax.
File:H5G-SOSformation.png|The Swords of Sanghelios fleet prepares to attack Sunaion.
File:H5G-SunaionSoS.png|A Sangheili Storm in Sunaion during the Swords assault.
File:HO-Spartans&Elites1.png|Sangheili and Spartan-IVs participating in War Games together on Anvil Station in ''[[Halo Online]]''.
File:Kola 'Baoth.jpg|[[Kola 'Baoth]] in Swords of Sanghelios [[Sangheili Ranger|Ranger]] Armor.
File:Rocket League SoS Flag.png|Swords of Sangheilios flag in ''[[Wikipedia:Rocket League|Rocket League]]'' as an unlockable antenna for the base cars to use.
File:HINF ArbyMeeting.jpg|Early concept art for ''[[Halo Infinite]]'' depicting Thel 'Vadam meeting with [[Kelly-087]] in a Swords of Sanghelios base.
File:HINF RebelBaseConcept.jpg|Early concept art for ''Halo Infinite'', possibly showing the exterior of the base. Take note of the Swords of Sanghelios symbol on the side of the structure.
File:BattleForTheBloodMoon.jpg|Swords of Sanghelios Sangheili with Spartan [[Fireteam Jorogumo]] during the [[Battle of Suban]] in ''[[Halo: Battle for the Blood-Moon]]''.
</Gallery>
 
== List of appearances ==
*''[[Halo 3]]'' {{Mo|MCC}}
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: Mortal Dictata]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Nightfall]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo 2 Anniversary]]''
*''[[Halo: New Blood]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]''
*''[[Halo: Fleet Battles]]''
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
**''[[Halo 5: Guardians Limited Edition dossiers|Limited Edition dossiers]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]''
*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
*''[[Halo Fractures]]''
**''[[Lessons Learned]]''
**''[[Breaking Strain]]''
*''[[Halo: Envoy]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Legacy of Onyx]]''
*''[[Halo: Bad Blood]]''
*''[[Halo: Shadows of Reach]]'' {{Im}}
*''[[Halo: Divine Wind]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo Infinite]]'' {{Mo}}
**''[[Season 05: Reckoning]]''
*''[[Halo: Outcasts]]''
*''[[Halo: Sunrise on Sanghelios]]''
*''[[Halo: Battle for the Blood-Moon]]''
*''[[Halo: Anvil Accord]]''
*''[[Halo: Empty Throne]]''
 
== Sources ==
{{Ref/Sources|2}}
 
{{Organizations}}
 
[[Category:Swords of Sanghelios| ]]
[[Category:Covenant remnants]]

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