Beta Squad

United Nations Space Command Priority Transmission 755RU-WPG
Encryption Code: Red
Public Key: file/XBL/Gold
From: Laura – 161/Spartan-III/Rank: Commander
To: Office of Naval Intelligence/ Codename: Bungie
Subject: Test Complete
Classification: RESTRICTED

/Start file/

As instructed, for the past two weeks, my team and I have relentlessly fought upon the new training grounds. Hour after hour, on occasion strained by fatigue and hunger, knowing that this short time, every moment of it, is essential to our cause.

The new tools and tech provided will prove most useful in our fight against the Covenant. The ability to sprint whilst wearing armour has many of my soldiers’ approval. For too long we have been cumbersome, unable to quickly retreat behind cover when needed. The armour lock is indeed impressive, withstanding direct hits from any weapon or vehicle and emitting an EMP burst when fully charged. The jetpack, while a risky and somewhat noisy device, can be an essential tool when acquiring enemy intel or mission critical items. The active-camo is, despite its perception and radar inhibiting factors, another powerful integrated device, effectively causing the user to become invisible. When used wisely the effects last longer, soon it will be us sneaking up on those Elite bastards! All these options may only last for mere seconds but they are vital seconds that can mean the difference between life or death.

All weapons appear fully functional and with minimal training any gunner will be able to wield them. But only those that have the skills and who are willing to make the effort will be able to efficiently master each one to maximise capability and damage. We Spartans were designed to fight, the war wages on and we are eager for a trial run of this fire-power and the new enhancements in the field. The practise sessions have been useful, if not limited so I look forward to your assessment of mine and the other squad leaders’ data. The more information we have, the easier these next few months will be.

Although I know there are more important matters to consider, old friend, I speak frankly when I tell you that I wish that this test wasn’t over. Despite the looming threat of Covenant attack, the troops and I found the past fortnight to be a rather enjoyable time. Being so very expertly created, the training grounds and exercises themselves became a distraction from their real purpose. As the mission comes to a close, reports finalised and filed and many of us preparing to enter stasis until called upon to return to active duty, I cannot help but feel unsure about the future. Even with the improved equipment and weaponry we have been fortunate enough to recieve, will it be enough? Have you done all you can to ensure survival? I have always trusted you and to this date you have yet to fail me, us, all of us. In that knowlege I guess I can have confidence that our combined efforts will prove victorious. We must not fall.

/end file/