The sound of boots clattering against stone and sand echoed throughout the valley. Engines of UNSC vehicles hummed as their occupants scattered for cover. Firebase Echo had lost contact an hour ago, and the 45th Scouting Division was dispatched to investigate. A single ODST led the operation, waiting in silence as his second in command dismounted a mongoose. No words were exchanged between them. The ODST signaled ahead, and several marines moved toward the small camp, ready for almost anything.