Halo's Arbiter Unveiled in Season 2, Significantly Impacting the Narrative

Halo season 2, episode 5, "Aleria," contains spoilers for fans.

The show officially revealed the identity of the Arbiter in this episode, which diverges significantly from the established Halo games and books. The Paramount+ series is set in the alternative Silver Timeline, distinct from the original Halo canon. While the show is becoming better at blending its own concepts with existing lore, its changes continue to surprise. For instance, viewers were left questioning the role of Var 'Gatanai within the Covenant in episode 3.

The Arbiter Is A Ceremonial Title In Halo Lore

In the Halo universe, the title of Arbiter is a ceremonial position held by a select few within the Covenant. The Arbiter is chosen to serve as a special agent, tasked with carrying out important missions on behalf of the Prophets. These individuals are often seen as symbols of honor and duty, embodying the highest ideals of the Covenant.

Throughout the Halo series, players have encountered several Arbiters, each with their own unique story and background. From Thel 'Vadam to Ripa 'Moramee, these characters have played pivotal roles in the overarching narrative of the games.

Despite their ceremonial status, Arbiters are not immune to conflict. In fact, many of them have faced betrayal, loss, and redemption throughout their journeys. Their experiences serve as a reminder of the complex nature of the Halo universe and the challenges faced by those who seek to bring balance to the galaxy.

The Arbiter aka Var 'Gatanai (Viktor Åkerblom) looks on in awe in Halo season 2 - The Arbiter Is A Ceremonial Title In Halo Lore

The title of Arbiter in Halo lore is a ceremonial, religious, and political rank. In the Paramount+ series' Silver Timeline, one who receives this title is known as "The Arbiter." This position was first seen in Halo 2 within the Covenant power structure, given to the Elite warrior Thel 'Vadam. Past Arbiters were tasked with subduing rebellious Grunts and controlling Hunters. According to the High Prophet of Mercy, the presence of Arbiters prevented the Covenant from falling apart.

Halo Season 2, Episode 5 Confirms Var 'Gatanai Is The Show's Arbiter

However, the once-coveted title's meaning changed roughly 400 years before the onset of the Human-Covenant War when an Arbiter admitted that he didn't believe in the Covenant's Great Journey. After this Arbiter was killed, the title became associated with great shame. As a result, subsequent Arbiters were sent on missions that they were expected to die during, thus redeeming themselves by becoming martyrs for the Great Journey. That said, Thel 'Vadam sees the brand as an opportunity to atone for his past failures. In the Halo TV show, the term's Silver Timeline history hasn't been made clear yet.

The Arbiter aka Var 'Gatanai (Viktor Åkerblom) pilots his ship in Halo season 2 - Halo Season 2, Episode 5 Confirms Var 'Gatanai Is The Show's Arbiter

In Halo season 2, episode 5, titled "Aleria," the aftermath of the invasion of Reach is the central focus. Human survivors are seen evacuating to various locations such as Aleria and Onyx, while Makee and Var 'Gatanai regroup on their ship. The reason behind the Covenant's interest in Cortana remains unclear, but her acquisition creates tension between Makee and the Elite. Despite the Covenant's success in glassing Reach, Var 'Gatanai is disappointed as they were only able to secure one of the two Forerunner Keystones. Makee tries to praise the Elite for their victory, but it is evident that there is still more at stake.

The reveal of Var 'Gatanai as the Arbiter in Halo Season 2 has significant implications for Thel 'Vadam. As Var 'Gatanai's mission to attain the Keystones is essential for the Covenant's Great Journey, the stakes are high for the Elite. Despite Makee's reminder not to rush the steps needed for the journey, Var 'Gatanai's frustration at being stopped from killing Master Chief, known as "the demon," is evident. This frustration stems from Var 'Gatanai's failure during the ending battle of Halo season 1, which is likely his great shame.

The Arbiter aka Var 'Gatanai (Viktor Åkerblom) makes a decision in Halo season 2 - What Halo Season 2's Arbiter Reveal Means For Thel 'Vadam

In the aftermath of the events following Halo: Combat Evolved and the destruction of Installation 04 by Master Chief, Thel 'Vadam faces severe consequences. As the one in charge during the loss of the sacred relic, Thel is stripped of his rank and sentenced to death. Despite the failure to safeguard the Sacred Ring being seen as a grave error, the High Prophets of Truth and Mercy present him with an alternative to his execution and public humiliation. Thel 'Vadam is given the choice to become the Arbiter, a position that carries a high risk of death but also the potential to redeem his honor.

While Var 'Gatanai is currently serving as the Arbiter in the Halo show, there is a possibility that another Elite could be chosen for this esteemed rank in the future.

Upon discovering the true purpose of the Forerunners' Halo array - to wipe out all sentient life in the galaxy if activated to combat the Flood - the Arbiter's belief system is deeply shaken. Feeling disenchanted with the Covenant's leadership and the concept of the Great Journey, the Arbiter decides to defect, leading to an unexpected alliance with the humans. As Var 'Gatanai holds the title of Arbiter in the Halo show at present, the position could potentially be passed on to a different Elite in the upcoming episodes. Conversely, the Silver Timeline may introduce Var as a replacement for Thel, aiming to streamline the narrative.

The Arbiter & Makee Are Poised For Conflict Over The Halo Array

The Arbiter aka Var 'Gatanai (Viktor Åkerblom) towers over Makee (Charlie Murphy) in Halo season 2 - The Arbiter & Makee Are Poised For Conflict Over The Halo Array

When the Arbiter discovers the Prophets' catastrophic plan to activate the Halo array, he defies his own kind to prevent the destruction of all sentient life in the universe. With Halo season 3 on the horizon, it is expected to delve into the introduction of the Flood. Following the journey of a single Arbiter, such as Var Gatanai, who may initially be a loyal soldier but eventually undergo a transformation similar to Thel, becoming disillusioned by the harsh reality.

The Halo show is already hinting at a brewing conflict between the Arbiter and Makee. This tension is anticipated to escalate as the two characters journey towards one of the Sacred Rings, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown.

Halo season 2's finale is scheduled to premiere on March 21, 2024.

The Arbiter questions the authority of the "blessed one" persistently, while Makee uses some clever Cortana trickery to persuade the Arbiter of their new mission. Both characters currently show dedication to the Covenant and the Great Journey, but Makee harbors doubts about labeling humans like John as "demons." Despite this, if the Halo TV series intends to revamp its central Arbiter narrative, it could explore new variations of the Flood and Great Schism tales in upcoming seasons.

Editor's P/S:

The article provides an in-depth analysis of the role of the Arbiter in the Halo universe, exploring its significance in the games and books as well as its evolution in the Paramount+ series. The divergence of the show's Silver Timeline from the established lore creates a unique opportunity for the creators to explore new and unexpected narratives.

While the series has introduced some intriguing changes, such as the revelation of Var 'Gatanai as the Arbiter, it remains to be seen how these alterations will impact the overall story and the characters' journeys. The upcoming episodes and seasons promise to deliver more surprises and challenges, as the Arbiter and Makee grapple with the complexities of the Halo universe and their own beliefs. The article effectively captures the essence of the Arbiter's role and sets the stage for what is sure to be an exciting and engaging continuation of the Halo saga.