Blink.

Blink blink.

"Oh-"

He wasn't quite expecting [that.]

His hand extends forward, the 'meat' in question dissolving in a flash of light before he nods once.

"You have my thanks.....and if you ever do decide my expertise is required, just disturb the domain a little, I'll feel the ripple."

If that is your wish, I will mot press the issue.

......though I would like to make a request.

Your....'host.' A blood sample would be quite appreciated, and illuminating.

Bastard for lies told while in slumber? You act as if we were in any position to dispute the so called 'claims.'

My awakening for example was a very recent affair, and in the time since I have labored heavily to restore the worlds broken in the so called 'glassings.'

....Success is mixed.

The Proph-

Ah, the San Shyuum. Yes they were a very.....crafty sort before even the parasites arrival.

The only mantle we willingly wore was as [Caretakers], bearers of responsibility. God's? Nothing of the sort.

I, for example, am a lifeworker. Scientist and healer in equal regard.

A threat?

I do believe there is a misunderstanding here, I only sought to study-

Seeing a Mgalekgolo bond to a different species, even forming a symbiotic relationship.

It's nothing short of remarkable.

🖥 To a degree, yes. That does not change the fact that much needs healing.

🖥 I am. And currently a 'guest' of your ONI.

🖥 As for why I help? Well, this universe has been broken too many times. Someone has to put it back together, so to speak.

🖥 I do believe you either dud it while inebriated or your network forwarded my number to you. In truth I've had very little contact with others since becoming a 'guest' of your ONI.

🖥 The lifeworker. The 'forerunner' that makes pain go away.

🖥 Because that is my duty. I am a lifeworker. Not unlike your 'doctors' so to speak.

🖥 Well, that and Medical and genetic sciences as well

🖥️: Pardon? I do not quite follow.

- He gave a nod, then turned back towards her as his hands gently clasped together.

"Unfortunately my.....combat experience is lacking, and my knowledge of the current era doubly so. As such I fear my ability to make 'appropriate' simulations of scenarios leaves.....much to be desired."

He turned and gestured towards the aforementioned terminals, whom all seemed to loaded up with various wargames scenarios, no doubt modified by him.

"As we previously discussed, the intention is to test the limits of your physiology, reaction speed, endurance, stamina, so forth." -

Hm-

Admittedly I am quite unsure as to what may suit the needs of your current situation, I'm no warrior myself.

But I'm told this weapon is quite potent! The weapon of choice for Prometheans when battling graveminds and their advanced forms, in fact.

I am doing my best to.

Their insistence on flaunting their.....everything makes it difficult.

Why are humans so odd?

Would this device suffice?

Spirit, my friend.

You do understand that [they] will never understand, yes?

- Upon my long path has made me weary.

I will not abandon the work, but I will not forget how long I had to stumble through it all alone. On how plea's for guidance fell upon a deafened void.

My place, mentor?

My place has been here, tending the work that I was charged with. Millennia in a deep sleep as I was ordered to, to plant the seeds of rebirth in the wake of Halo's purification.

I have labored for ages, alone.

So forgive me if the burden has been heavy and the journey -

My focus is, as it always has been, on building a better tomorrow.

Perhaps if you spent less time musing in the domain, your hand would be more active in those pursuits.

Unity is hampered by distance, mentor.

What is this strange custom of taking off-

On second thought, no. Perhaps it is best I do not know whatever this weird courting ritual is.

Admittedly no, not quite. My skills lay in flesh, not metal.

And I feared as such, very well. What is the nature of his current shape? Builder-security I assume? And what caused his wounds?

Anything is better than nothing, Builder. The act of assistance in and of itself is appreciated.

As far as your companion goes, yes.

How wounded is he? Depending on the severity reshaping may be necessary.

- Regardless.....

How may I be of assistance?

Excellent.

Shieldworld Harmony has been kept in excellent condition all things considered, but alas my monitor can only do so much to stave off the march of time and my technical expertise is....lacking.

I am Ashes-of-Neutrality. And no, the irony of my name in these times is not lost upon me. -

Oh!

I could easily resolve that little issue. A simple augmentation to your liver and your tolerances should be far, far higher.