Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard was a major event of the Covenant. It contributed greatly to the start of the Great Schism.

After the assassination of the High Prophet of Regret, the Brutes took the place of the Elites as the protectors of the High Prophets, after the Elite Honor Guards were unable to protect Regret. . As a result, the Elites were incensed that their role of protecting the Prophets, which they had faithfully executed for a millennium, had been now delegated by these new upstarts and genetic rivals.

The Changing of the Guard occurred in the beginning of the campaign level The Sacred Icon. The swap takes place during the opening cutscene for and Brutes can be seen taking the ceremonial staves and helmets from former Elite Honor Guards.