 The books cover was designed by Sparth, in a collaboration with Gabriel Garza, and with design help for the Didact sphere provided by Glenn Israel.The Forerunner Saga takes place approximately 100,000 years before the 26th century setting in the "Halo" universe, telling the story of the ancient and powerful civilization known as the Forerunners, divided into ranks based on occupations, such as Builders, Warriors, and Lifeworkers.They were preceded by an enigmatic race known as the Precursors.