T'vaoan: Difference between revisions
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==History== | ==History== | ||
===Origins=== | ===Origins=== | ||
The T'vaoans originated | The T'vaoans originated on the [[Kig-Yar]] homeworld of [[Eayn]]. They eventually colonized other locations within the [[Y'Deio system]], primarily the asteroid [[T'vao]], from which they earn their name.<ref>'''[[Halopedia:Letter - Re:Mortal Dictata Question]]'''</ref> The higher gravity, more dramatic atmospheric shifts, and other harsher environmental conditions on T'vao led to the Skirmishers evolving very differently to other Kig-Yar.<ref name="EVG"/><ref name="md59">'''Halo: Mortal Dictata''', ''page 59''</ref><ref name="waypointuniverse">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/species/kig-yar '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Kig-Yar'']</ref> When the Covenant made peace with the Kig-Yar after a battle in the system, T'vaoans were recruited into the Covenant's military. | ||
===The Covenant=== | ===The Covenant=== | ||
Many T'vaoans served in the [[Human-Covenant War]], often being led by [[Sangheili]] or [[Jiralhanae]]. In engagements prior to [[2530]], mixed units containing both | Many T'vaoans served in the [[Human-Covenant War]], often being led by [[Sangheili]] or [[Jiralhanae]]. In engagements prior to [[2530]], mixed units containing both Ruuhtian and T'vaoan Kig-Yar were more common; however, this changed toward the end of the war, with Covenant doctrine favoring units comprised solely of Skirmishers.<ref name="bungie"/> Several Skirmisher squads saw action during the [[Battle of Hat Yai]] and [[Battle of Actium]], among other engagements. During these engagements UNSC forces managed to capture the hologram technology used by the Skirmishers.<ref>'''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 139''</ref> | ||
They saw extensive action during the [[Fall of Reach]], and as a result of catastrophically high casualties, the Skirmisher ranks were utterly exhausted and the | They saw extensive action during the [[Fall of Reach]], and as a result of catastrophically high casualties, the Skirmisher ranks were utterly exhausted and the T'vaoans themselves nearly wiped out, though the subspecies as a whole did survive.<ref>[http://www.gamereactor.eu/articles/2600/First+Look%3A+Halo+Reach/ '''Game Reactor''': ''First Look: Halo Reach'']</ref><ref name="OMX">[http://www.oxm.co.uk/article.php?id=18095 '''OXM''': ''Bungie reveals how Reach will fall, and the epic scope of its last Halo'']</ref> | ||
===Post-war=== | ===Post-war=== | ||
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==Description== | ==Description== | ||
===Anatomy and physiology=== | ===Anatomy and physiology=== | ||
T'vaoans are a subset of the [[Kig-Yar]] species hailing from the isolated environment of [[T'vao]]. The morphological variation among the Kig-Yar represents divergent evolution in response to varied environments on prehistoric [[Eayn]].<ref name="enc">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''' (2011), ''pages 156-157''</ref> [[Xenobiology|Xenobiologists]] believe that the [[asteroid]]'s higher gravity and atmospheric shifts led to the development of the T'voans' avian features.<ref name="waypointuniverse"/> They are much faster and stronger than the more lightly-built common Kig-Yar, known to humans as Jackals. They have darker skin and stockier, squared heads with small yellow eyes with slitted pupils, as opposed to the bulbous and pale eyes of the | T'vaoans are a subset of the [[Kig-Yar]] species hailing from the isolated environment of [[T'vao]]. The morphological variation among the Kig-Yar represents divergent evolution in response to varied environments on prehistoric [[Eayn]].<ref name="enc">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''' (2011), ''pages 156-157''</ref> [[Xenobiology|Xenobiologists]] believe that the [[asteroid]]'s higher gravity and atmospheric shifts led to the development of the T'voans' avian features.<ref name="waypointuniverse"/> They are much faster and stronger than the more lightly-built common Kig-Yar, known to humans as Jackals (particularly the Ruuhtians and Ibie'shan). They have darker skin and stockier, squared heads with small yellow eyes with slitted pupils, as opposed to the bulbous and pale eyes of the Ruuhtians. They also have more beak-like mouths and bony facial coverings. Skirmishers have true feathers on their head, back, and arms, unlike the Jackals' quills. A Skirmisher's voice is more raspy and guttural—this is because they have an expanding voice chamber on their throat. Skirmishers serve as Covenant shock troops, while the more lightly built Jackals see deployment as dedicated [[Kig-Yar Ranger|ranger]] or [[Kig-Yar Sniper|sniper units]]. Unlike other Kig-Yar, Skirmishers do not display color changes in their plumage when their moods shift.<ref>'''Halo: Mortal Dictata''', ''page 65''</ref> | ||
Their head shape appears to be more avian than their cousins; their skin tone is noticeably darker and not yellowish. They also run much faster than Jackals, reaching speeds of up to 72 kilometers (45 miles) per hour in open environments,<ref name="enc"/> and can jump incredible heights. Like Jackals, Skirmishers have sharp talons on their hands and feet. While | Their head shape appears to be more avian than their cousins; their skin tone is noticeably darker and not yellowish. They also run much faster than Jackals, reaching speeds of up to 72 kilometers (45 miles) per hour in open environments,<ref name="enc"/> and can jump incredible heights. Like Jackals, Skirmishers have sharp talons on their hands and feet. While Kig-Yar are generally quite agile across all subsets, Skirmishers are capable of sprinting at great speeds and leaping long distances. Male Kig-Yar from T'vao had much heavier upper body plumage than other Kig-Yar. Females from T'vao had a ruff of feathers on their heads and necks instead of scales.<ref>'''Halo: Mortal Dictata''', ''Chapter 3''</ref> Young T'vaoan chicks are covered in a brown fledgling down which gradually moults and gives way to scales and plumage as they age.<ref>'''Halo: Mortal Dictata''', ''page 71''</ref> | ||
The [[blood]] of a T'vaoan is thick and purple.<ref>[[:File:SkirmisherBleeding.jpg|This image]]</ref> | The [[blood]] of a T'vaoan is thick and purple.<ref>[[:File:SkirmisherBleeding.jpg|This image]]</ref> | ||
| Line 44: | Line 44: | ||
=== Role in the Covenant === | === Role in the Covenant === | ||
The Covenant use Skirmishers as close-range combatants, attacking in packs and using lightning-fast flanking tactics, as opposed to the mainline Kig-Yar, who are often used as defensive and [[Kig-Yar Sniper|long-range combatants and assassins]]. Anatomically, they possess a profile similar to regular Kig-Yar, though in combat they do not wield [[Kig-Yar point defense gauntlet|large rounded energy shields]] like the Jackals. High-ranking Skirmishers do wear point defense gauntlets or wrist shields, medium sized ovular shields strapped on to their wrists, to help them deflect bullet and light plasma fire.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63_LHQoVyxU '''YouTube''': ''Halo: Reach - 5 Minute Firefight'']</ref> | The Covenant use Skirmishers as close-range combatants, attacking in packs and using lightning-fast flanking tactics, as opposed to the mainline Kig-Yar troops, who are often used as defensive and [[Kig-Yar Sniper|long-range combatants and assassins]]. Anatomically, they possess a profile similar to regular Kig-Yar, though in combat they do not wield [[Kig-Yar point defense gauntlet|large rounded energy shields]] like the Jackals. High-ranking Skirmishers do wear point defense gauntlets or wrist shields, medium sized ovular shields strapped on to their wrists, to help them deflect bullet and light plasma fire.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63_LHQoVyxU '''YouTube''': ''Halo: Reach - 5 Minute Firefight'']</ref> | ||
Apart from combat roles, and like the common Kig-Yar, the T'vaoans can hold commanding roles such as the title of [[shipmaster]] in the [[Covenant military]]. | Apart from combat roles, and like the common Kig-Yar, the T'vaoans can hold commanding roles such as the title of [[shipmaster]] in the [[Covenant military]]. | ||
=== Ranks structure === | === Ranks structure === | ||
Fresh T'vaoans start as [[Skirmisher Minor]]s (marked with black feathers and grey armor) and are promoted to [[Skirmisher Major|Major]] (marked with red feathers and greyish-red armor) once they have accumulated sufficient combat experience. | |||
There are several specialist ranks for the Skirmishers. These specialists are equipped with their own variation of combat armor and given equipments to fulfill their specific, respective roles. The [[Skirmisher Murmillo|Murmillones]], for example, in their orange armor, are equipped [[Kig-Yar point defense gauntlet|point defense gauntlets]] on each arm. The [[Skirmisher Commando|Commandos]], on the other hand, don green armor and are equipped with a [[Type-27 hologram|holographic projector]]. | There are several specialist ranks for the Skirmishers. These specialists are equipped with their own variation of combat armor and given equipments to fulfill their specific, respective roles. The [[Skirmisher Murmillo|Murmillones]], for example, in their orange armor, are equipped [[Kig-Yar point defense gauntlet|point defense gauntlets]] on each arm. The [[Skirmisher Commando|Commandos]], on the other hand, don green armor and are equipped with a [[Type-27 hologram|holographic projector]]. | ||
Leading the Skirmishers in combat is the [[Skirmisher Champion|Champion]]. | Leading the Skirmishers in combat is the [[Skirmisher Champion|Champion]], outfitted with heavier gold armor and sometimes employing holograms to confuse their enemies. | ||
{{Kig-yar Ranks}} | {{Kig-yar Ranks}} | ||
Revision as of 22:20, March 12, 2017
The T'vaoans, referred to by humans as Skirmishers, are a subspecies of the Kig-Yar hailing from asteroid colony of T'vao. They served the Covenant as a specialized group in the military.[1]
History
Origins
The T'vaoans originated on the Kig-Yar homeworld of Eayn. They eventually colonized other locations within the Y'Deio system, primarily the asteroid T'vao, from which they earn their name.[2] The higher gravity, more dramatic atmospheric shifts, and other harsher environmental conditions on T'vao led to the Skirmishers evolving very differently to other Kig-Yar.[3][4][5] When the Covenant made peace with the Kig-Yar after a battle in the system, T'vaoans were recruited into the Covenant's military.
The Covenant
Many T'vaoans served in the Human-Covenant War, often being led by Sangheili or Jiralhanae. In engagements prior to 2530, mixed units containing both Ruuhtian and T'vaoan Kig-Yar were more common; however, this changed toward the end of the war, with Covenant doctrine favoring units comprised solely of Skirmishers.[1] Several Skirmisher squads saw action during the Battle of Hat Yai and Battle of Actium, among other engagements. During these engagements UNSC forces managed to capture the hologram technology used by the Skirmishers.[6]
They saw extensive action during the Fall of Reach, and as a result of catastrophically high casualties, the Skirmisher ranks were utterly exhausted and the T'vaoans themselves nearly wiped out, though the subspecies as a whole did survive.[7][8]
Post-war
Despite the amount of T'vaoans that died in the Human-Covenant War, many still remained. The T'vaoan Shipmistress Chol Von attempted to create a united Kig-Yar government to defend the Y'Deio system from threats, while others, such as Sav Fel, returned to the Kig-Yar's ancient ways of piracy.[9] At least one T'vaoan joined Vata 'Gajat's mercenary group, serving as 'Gajat's second-in-command.[10]
Description
Anatomy and physiology
T'vaoans are a subset of the Kig-Yar species hailing from the isolated environment of T'vao. The morphological variation among the Kig-Yar represents divergent evolution in response to varied environments on prehistoric Eayn.[11] Xenobiologists believe that the asteroid's higher gravity and atmospheric shifts led to the development of the T'voans' avian features.[5] They are much faster and stronger than the more lightly-built common Kig-Yar, known to humans as Jackals (particularly the Ruuhtians and Ibie'shan). They have darker skin and stockier, squared heads with small yellow eyes with slitted pupils, as opposed to the bulbous and pale eyes of the Ruuhtians. They also have more beak-like mouths and bony facial coverings. Skirmishers have true feathers on their head, back, and arms, unlike the Jackals' quills. A Skirmisher's voice is more raspy and guttural—this is because they have an expanding voice chamber on their throat. Skirmishers serve as Covenant shock troops, while the more lightly built Jackals see deployment as dedicated ranger or sniper units. Unlike other Kig-Yar, Skirmishers do not display color changes in their plumage when their moods shift.[12]
Their head shape appears to be more avian than their cousins; their skin tone is noticeably darker and not yellowish. They also run much faster than Jackals, reaching speeds of up to 72 kilometers (45 miles) per hour in open environments,[11] and can jump incredible heights. Like Jackals, Skirmishers have sharp talons on their hands and feet. While Kig-Yar are generally quite agile across all subsets, Skirmishers are capable of sprinting at great speeds and leaping long distances. Male Kig-Yar from T'vao had much heavier upper body plumage than other Kig-Yar. Females from T'vao had a ruff of feathers on their heads and necks instead of scales.[13] Young T'vaoan chicks are covered in a brown fledgling down which gradually moults and gives way to scales and plumage as they age.[14]
The blood of a T'vaoan is thick and purple.[15]
Culture
T'vaoans have a culture largely similar to most Kig-Yar, although most T'vaoans believe themselves to be superior over the rest of the Kig-Yar. Among T'vaoans, it is often considered "bad form" to treat a T'vaoan like an average Kig-Yar.[16] Like other types of Kig-Yar, T'vaoan society is described as matriarchal.[17] T'vaoans are attracted to shiny, glittery and glamorous objects. Males often squabble amongst each other and display their quills for females.[4]
Role in the Covenant
The Covenant use Skirmishers as close-range combatants, attacking in packs and using lightning-fast flanking tactics, as opposed to the mainline Kig-Yar troops, who are often used as defensive and long-range combatants and assassins. Anatomically, they possess a profile similar to regular Kig-Yar, though in combat they do not wield large rounded energy shields like the Jackals. High-ranking Skirmishers do wear point defense gauntlets or wrist shields, medium sized ovular shields strapped on to their wrists, to help them deflect bullet and light plasma fire.[18]
Apart from combat roles, and like the common Kig-Yar, the T'vaoans can hold commanding roles such as the title of shipmaster in the Covenant military.
Ranks structure
Fresh T'vaoans start as Skirmisher Minors (marked with black feathers and grey armor) and are promoted to Major (marked with red feathers and greyish-red armor) once they have accumulated sufficient combat experience.
There are several specialist ranks for the Skirmishers. These specialists are equipped with their own variation of combat armor and given equipments to fulfill their specific, respective roles. The Murmillones, for example, in their orange armor, are equipped point defense gauntlets on each arm. The Commandos, on the other hand, don green armor and are equipped with a holographic projector.
Leading the Skirmishers in combat is the Champion, outfitted with heavier gold armor and sometimes employing holograms to confuse their enemies.
Trivia
| Language | Equivalent |
|---|---|
 French |
Template:Explain in all media. |
|
See our gameplay information related to T'vaoan on its gameplay page. |
|
Browse more images in this article's gallery page. |
Skirmishers bear a notable physical resemblance to dromaeosaurs such as Deinonychus and the smaller, better-known Velociraptor. Like the Skirmishers, the dromaeosaurs were reptiles with prominent avian features including feathers and lightweight bones. Dromaeosaurs are considered to be one of the main taxonomic links between dinosaurs and modern-day birds, perhaps suggesting a similar evolutionary progression among the Kig-Yar.
Gallery
- ReachConcept Skirmisher.png
Concept art of a Skirmisher.
- ReachConcept SkirmisherVariant.jpg
A Skirmisher study.
An alpha build render of a Skirmisher's face.
An alpha build of Reach, showcasing a lance of Skirmishers in battle during the Fall of Reach.
In general pattern on the Skirmisher armor in Halo Reach.
A Skirmisher Commando in Firefight.
Skirmisher Murmillo armed with a focus rifle.
A Skirmisher bleeding.
Several Skirmishers of differing rank.
Tek, a Skirmisher operating with Vata 'Gajat's mercenary group.
List of appearances
- Remember Reach
- Deliver Hope (First appearance)
- Halo: Reach
- Halo: The Thursday War
- Halo: Escalation
- Halo: Mortal Dictata
- Halo: Last Light
- Halo Mythos: A Guide to the Story of Halo
- Halo: Fractures
- Halo: Smoke and Shadow
Sources
- ^ a b Bungie: Halo: Reach Enemy Intel
- ^ Halopedia:Letter - Re:Mortal Dictata Question
- ^ Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; no text was provided for refs namedEVG - ^ a b Halo: Mortal Dictata, page 59
- ^ a b Halo Waypoint: Kig-Yar
- ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 139
- ^ Game Reactor: First Look: Halo Reach
- ^ OXM: Bungie reveals how Reach will fall, and the epic scope of its last Halo
- ^ Halo: Mortal Dictata
- ^ Halo: Escalation, Issue #2
- ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia (2011), pages 156-157
- ^ Halo: Mortal Dictata, page 65
- ^ Halo: Mortal Dictata, Chapter 3
- ^ Halo: Mortal Dictata, page 71
- ^ This image
- ^ Halo: Mortal Dictata, page 272
- ^ Halo: Mortal Dictata, page 60
- ^ YouTube: Halo: Reach - 5 Minute Firefight
