Changing of the Guard

Though there were many causes for the Great Schism, some old and some recent, the Changing of the Guard was the final spark that ignited the conflict.
==History==
After the assassination of the High Prophet of Regret by John-117, the remaining two Hierarchs (Truth & Mercy) claimed that the Sangheili were no longer capable of protecting the Hierarchs and subsequently reassigned the Sangheili Honor Guards, replacing them instead with Jiralhanae.Halo 2, level Sacred Icon This was in flagrant violation of the Writ of Union, the founding document of the Covenant, and was a direct insult to the Sangheili as a people; Sangheili members of the High Council even threatened to resign from their positions in protest at the move. In response, the Prophets declared the Elites to be traitors to the Covenant, and encouraged the other races to turn on their former commanders and remain loyal to the Prophets, igniting the Covenant Civil War.Halo 2, level Gravemind
However, the High Prophets had not foreseen the influence and support the Sangheili still had among much of the Covenant. Many Unggoy and Mgalekgolo broke away with the Sangheili, joining the Separatists, and the conflict between them and the Loyalists began the Great Schism.Halo 2, level UprisingHalo 2, level The Great Journey
==Trivia==
*"Changing of the Guard" is a phrase used in modern-day Great Britain, as well as Commonwealth countries, signifying the changing between different shifts of guards who protect the royal family and government.
==Gallery==
Honor Guard Ultra Helmet.jpg
==Sources==
Category:Covenant
Category:Covenant History
Category:Events