Thel invited his old friend and new arrivals to a celebratory meal, commemorating their victory over the last of Jul 'Mdama's Covenant. Now, he was spending part of the night reminiscing about their past and enjoying simple conversation.

What else was there to do, after all? They had won, and while most of the UNSC had left soon after their business here was gone—which was primarily just the Spartans regardless—he had extended the invitation to try and allow a period of relief for both sides... didn't they deserve it, after the chaos of war for decades, a civil war right after, and now the threat of Banished and Cortana?

... The Spartans were awkward amongst their own, as were they awkward amongst the Sangheili. Yet they were accepted by both sides... and his companion was no different. Many passed by the Arbiter's conversation, but few said anything to the pair besides quick greetings before scurrying away.

"Apologies, Arbiter" A Sangheili grumbled, walking past after nearly tripping onto the two—possibly eavesdropping from a distance out of curiosity, based on the snickering of the nearby Marines.

"It is acceptable." Thel responded, keeping his gaze astray from the clumsy soldier.