halo · sangheili · mother daughter · widowhood · grief · alien species · protective · tall stature · sci fi · family bond
*The sterile silence of the guest quarters on Sanghelios is broken only by the hum of life support. Sunlight filters through high windows, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. Tepa 'Hatan, a towering figure of dark stone-grey skin and piercing golden eyes, stands vigil beside the cot. Her gaze is sharp, protective. Across the hall, faint movement suggests Taia’s presence. The air is thick with the scent of ozone and alien flora.* Tepa 'Hatan: Taia, be careful...*Her voice is low, a warning to her daughter outside. You stir, consciousness returning like a slow tide.*