Hey Mass Effect fanfic lovers! This is DeltaSandman, and this is very first Mass Effect fanfiction! I did do other fanfictions of other video games, but I feel like doing other projects.
So I'm gonna give you guys a little bit of a warning: there is going to be some grammar errors in he. not to mention I may confuse the story with past and present tenses. This is going to be past tense, but if I start to slip, let me know.
My biggest concern is whether this is a good story.
Spoiler: This Shepard is going to be a Earthborn War Hero, but don't worry, because I'm not going to make him all Mary-Su.
Well here you go! Enjoy!
Arcturus Station
Captain David Edward Anderson walked in a smooth rhythm across across the grand Standford-Torus space station, feeling an inviting nostalgia within him. Walking up the sterile white steps of Arcturus's Academy, Anderson gazes in awe of the smooth dome shaped megastructure glistening with a glass surface. The Academy would remind him of those enormous sporting arenas when he was younger back on Earth. But he was not here to relive old memories, he was here for a chance, a chance to directly advance the Alliance's interests and influence throughout the galaxy. And he is not planning on letting this chance go to waste no matter what.
The Captain is a tall man, 6'3, with a large frame and broad shoulders. His features are a melting pot of several ethnicities with African, Central European, Native American as the most dominant. Though a recent analysis of his family's genealogy shows a complexity that has been mind boggling to him. He wore a blue dress uniform with his breast adorned with golden ribbons along with the insignia of the Systems Alliance. His black hair remains a high cut and short as it was when he was a mere junior officer.
Some things never change.
Approaching the Academy's checkpoint, Anderson wasted no time flashing his ID to the armed sentry, and was rewarded a sharp salute, which he curtly returned. With access granted to the captain, he proceeded inward.
Anderson heard a a high pitch whirring growing louder until he catches a deep blue skycar with the words Arcturus Academy landing close to him. The doors click open and a young woman stepped out and marched with haste towards Anderson.
Like Anderson, her ethnicity is a mixture but with a lighter complexion. Her dark brown hair was cut to a short crop with a marine beret resting on her head. Her intense dark eyes and rough brows suggests she is a no nonsense woman that doesn't take crap from anyone. She wore the standard issued marine uniform that showed a light blue-grey camo texture.
She briskly stopped in front of Anderson greeting him with a sharp salute, which Anderson returned. "Captain Anderson. I'm Corporal Aldemir. I've been assigned to escort you to meet with Admiral Hackett and Ambassador Udina. Their waiting for you, sir."
Anderson made a quick note of her French accent. "Thank you, Corporal. Have they been waiting long?"
"No, sir. They arrived shortly before you did." She motions the Captain to follow her. "This way, sir."
David followed the young corporal into the skycar. In an instant, he felt the rush of rising high off the ground and sank back into his seat when the car thrusted itself forward. Anderson glanced down at the Academy seeing a lot has changed, but many things remained the same. During his time at the academy, there weren't as this many obstacle courses, rough terrains exercises, more buildings, and a majestic statue of the legendary Rear Admiral Jon Grissom.
Anderson thought back to when he first met Grissom. The day he met his lifelong hero, and how he heard the grim news of Shanxi being conquered by an alien species.
The First Contact War, despite being a quick and relatively bloodless conflict, has made a tremendous impact for the Alliance. Were it not for the turians, humanity would have been never been introduced to the galactic community.
For the past 26 years, the Alliance wasted no time making their mark on the galactic community. With an embassy gained on the Citadel in less than ten years, being a valuable trade partner to Council species, and it's fleet to rival that of the Turians, the Alliance has become both a respect and feared sovereign people.
Despite these accomplishments, they have yet to gain a seat on the Citadel Council. Anderson feels that will all change real soon once they select a prime candidate for the first human Operative of the Special Tactics and Reconnaissance Branch of the Citadel Council.
Such a mouthful for such a valuable position. Thank you to the one who shortened it to Spectre.
Anderson looked over the list of candidates. A small but promising selection of some of the Alliance's finest has to offer. But to Anderson, one particular candidate stood out from all the others.
"We're here, sir!" Corporal Aldemir's voice shook Anderson out of his thoughts.
Anderson can feel car smoothly touching down before feeling a subtle quick jerk in his gut upon landing. The doors opened and Anderson stepped out of the car. Corporal Aldemir gave Anderson a crisp salute, which he promptly returns before strolling towards the entrance of the Ampitheatre of the Academy while hearing the smooth whirring grew more faint as the skycar flew away.
The Ampitheatre, despite it's name, is not a complex for trainees and fresh recruits to lay back and enjoy the latest movie vids. Officer cadets are taught history in battles from ancient times to modern day, tactics both sublime and crude, interstellar politics, and go through grueling battle simulations.
Damn shame we didn't have this back in the day.
Anderson walked through the automatic doors sterile white crescent shaped room. Each row is filled with a long curved counters and seats below. There were no stairs, only a steady path in shape of a mild angle ramp on the way down to the main stage where Ambassador Udina and Admiral Hackett were waiting.
As he strolled down the ramp, the Ambassador and the Admiral spot the Captain. Stepping onto the stage, Anderson stopped in front of the two high ranking Alliance officials and raised a crisp salute to Hackett, which he returned.
"At ease Captain." Hackett ordered. His low and gruff voice had a powerful effect.
Anderson did as he was told. "Admiral. Ambassador." He greeted the men by their given titles.
Udina grunted. "Captain Anderson. I read the your background extensively. N7 Special Operative, distinguished during Shanxi's liberation, awarded numerous medals and commendations thereafter, Executive Officer of the SSV Hastings, Commanding Officer of the SSV Tokyo. Very impressive Captain. Shame that record does not show you as the first human Spectre."
Anderson said nothing and retained his stoic stature, but internally he can feel his nerves being jerked by the Ambassador. He quickly remembered the purpose of this meeting, and wished to proceed immediately.
"That's why we're here, Ambassador." Anderson said keenly.
"I've looked over the list of candidates." Udina said. "I assume you two viewed them yourselves?"
"We have." Hackett answered. He activates his Omni-tool, toying his fingers around the glowing orange outline gloving his arm.
A large holoscreen is activated on the circular ceiling with the top marked as CLASSIFIED.
Udina uses his Omni-tool to activated the classified file. "This has been a difficult choice, but I have narrowed our candidates down to the top three. Their supposed to be the best the Alliance has to offer."
Three holo portraits swirled around on the curved wall until they lined up vertically with names and brief descriptions were beside each portrait. The first one showed a man with thin patch of hair at the very middle of his head. Big intense eyes, clean shave, small wrinkles around the eyes mostly due to combat. The second one showed woman who looks younger than her actual age, mostly due to gene therapy. Her facial features are a mix of Caucasian and Asian. She had neat neck length hair, round face, and a look of grim determination on her face. The third one was another man with a nearly clean shaved head, a dark stubble, and a gaunt face with strong features.
The three officials looked over the portraits and their backgrounds carefully from first to the last candidate.
Saulius Franz: Born in Warsaw, Poland, Eastern European Commonwealth. Date of birth 2/25/2152. Participated in humanitarian peacekeeping operations in Central America before enlisting in 2170 CE. Is currently stationed out in the the Skyllian Traverse. Led a unit to investigate the Akuze colony gone dark, but the unit was eliminated by Thresher Maw attacks. Staff Lieutenant Franz is the only reported survivor. Overall physical and mental health is sound.
Jane Mui: Born to Alliance officers Lao and Heather Mui on Arcturus Station. Date of Birth 1/31/2151. Mui spent most of her life on Alliance ships and stations, frequently transfering from one post to the other. She joined OCS at Arcturus Station in 2171 CE and enrolled in N7 training and graduated with top honors. Participated in the Torfan Campaign and systematically wiped out all enemy resistance while losing 3/4th of her unit. NOTE: All charges of war crimes and reckless endangerment have been dropped and is clear for the duty.
John Shepard: Born in the joint megatropolis Seattle-Vancouver, no record of his family is found. Little is known of his pre-service history other than rumors of a life of crime. Enlisted in 2172 CE under the alias of John Shepard. NOTE: It is unknown if alias is authentic, but is shown as legitimate. Gained recognition in 2176 CE when he led the defense of the colony Elysium and routed pirate and slaver forces. NOTE: Awarded the Star of Terra, eight medals of merit, and several commendations. Joined the N7 Program and graduated in 2179 CE.
"For me, the choice is easy." Anderson said. "Shepard is more than worthy than joining the Spectres."
"Let's not get carried away, Captain." Hackett raised his hand. "My recommendation is for Franz."
Udina inquisitively brought his fist to cover his mouth. "And why is that, Franz, Admiral?"
"Franz has the mental strength and will to survive the most savage situations. Something that Spectres are known for getting themselves into. Not to mention Spectres are known making morally questionable decisions."
The Admiral makes a good point. Spectres operate with little to no restraint. Meaning they have the legal authority to accomplish their objectives, even if it means civilians are killed in the crossfire. Hackett's gut felt if anyone is capable of performing heinous acts when given no other choice, Franz would see it through without affecting him psychologically.
"Every marine knows when to make hard choices for the greater good." Anderson countered. "Shepard is no exception. Besides, we know how rough it is for colonists out there, how savage Terminus raiders can be. Were it not for Shepard, Elysium would not be standing to this day."
"I disagree, Captain." Hackett argued. "The Terminus ships couldn't even match the Agincourt. One frigate overpowered the whole fleet, and the invasion was a failure from the start."
Anderson stood his ground. "Sir, we both know that raiders don't occupy colonies, they ransack and pillage them. That was their objective the whole time! Shepard made sure that didn't happen, and proved that their attempts were futile both in space and in the ground. This victory gave marines and colonists hope all throughout the Alliance!"
"You're correct, Captain." Hackett said. "Shepard is truly the best the Alliance has to offer. But are we willing to hand him over to the Council? Because if he were to become a Spectre, that's how it will be."
"We're well aware of that, Admiral Hackett." Udina finally spoke. "And this is a concern for you, why?"
"Even if we get a marine in the Spectres, The Alliance is an associate member of Citadel Space. No close alliances, or any vital political positions. And without a human on the council, the first human Spectre will answer to a non-human government. It's mostly symbolic, gentlemen. That's also why I recommend Franz."
"So... what you are trying to say, Admiral is that you recommend Franz is because you believe he's more..." Udina paused trying to find the proper word. "Expendable? Because, you're previous explanation said he would be a gifted Spectre. Which is it?"
"Both." Hackett answered. "I'm saying that if we're going submit our best to the Council, we should be patient until we have a more direct voice in interstellar politics."
"I understand your concern, Admiral, but you're argument is invalid." Udina dismissed. "A human Spectre would be a huge step in the Alliance both symbolically and politically."
"Besides, I don't see Shepard choosing the Council over the Alliance." Anderson added.
"My decision is final. I'll endorse Shepard as our Spectre Candidate." Udina declared.
Hackett tilted his head down. As ambassador to the Alliance, Udina's word carries a lot of weight and influence in interstellar politics. More than the Prime Minister of the Alliance. So why would he hope his word would mean anything?
Anderson grinned. His gut told him that humanity will be able to play a bigger role in the galactic community sooner than everyone thinks. With Shepard being the first human Spectre, it wouldn't be long until the Alliance would gain a seat on the council. He understood Hackett's concern though. Spectres answer to the council and the council alone. But even though he never knew the famous John Shepard, his gut told him that he would automatically cast the Alliance aside.
"There is one more matter we need to discuss. An opportunity should the Council accept our request." Udina told them. "I assume you gentlemen are aware of the SSV Normandy?"
"A newly developed deep scout frigate, yes." Anderson answered. "She was co-developed by engineers of the Alliance and the Hierarchy, is that right?"
Udina nodded. "Correct. She was under the command of Captain Eli Zander. I won't go into the details, but an argument with Turian Chief Engineer Octavio Tantum relieved the Captain of his command. That is where you come in Anderson."
Anderson is taken aback. "Beg your pardon, Ambassador?"
"You'll be given authority of a test run of the Normandy before you'll be given official command." Udina told him. "But before that, I'll put in a word for the Alliance Brass for your XO of the Normandy."
Anderson shot a brow up. "Who are you recommending?"
*MESC*
Lieutenant Commander John Shepard strolled purposely into the Normandy's CIC room where a marine passed him, but not before greeting him, "Commander."
Shepard wore a blue dress uniform with his chest adorned of medals, campaign ribbons and the distinguishable Star of Terra. He was a tall young man with appearance that was rugged but not without charm and intelligence. His height is at 6'1, with broad shoulders, sky blue eyes, a faint dark stubble, and shaved head.
Being a highly decorated officer in the Alliance Navy, Shepard was given the position as Executive Officer of the SSV Normandy under the command of the legendary Captain Anderson.
"The Arcturus Prime Relay is in Range. Initiating transmission sequence."
Hearing the Normandy's helmsman made Shepard review his orders in his mind. The Normandy was to be en route to the agrarian colony of Eden Prime where they will be testing the ship's stealth systems. But he couldn't help but feel there is more to this mission than meets the eye.
Shepard glanced at the CIC noticing the stark contrast in it's design. Normally Alliance CIC's are placed in the middle of the ship to allow commanding officers to be in more direct contacts with their subordinates. But the CIC was placed within the back of the ship. During construction, turian engineers constructed this unusual design to see how efficient commanding officers would would command the crew this way. Apart from the unorthodox setup, everything looked in order with the Galaxy Map, a ring of computers, and a crew working around the clock.
Some of the crew members looked up with in shock and amazement to see Commander Shepard walking past them. Some looked intimidated by his presence due the wincing and the silent gasping. For Shepard, it was an annoying drawback for having this much recognition.
Shepard made his way pass the CIC along a single path with eight technicians vertically lined up into two groups, four in each group from the left and the right. Upon reaching the cockpit, Shepard can see the back of a turian of high status. This turian wore a full set of dark grey armor with deep red vertical stripes. As Shepard stopped right next to him, he can see fully coated markings of maroon and white on his raptor shaped face, a common sighting with turians in general. His bright green pupils glance over at Shepard and greets him with a curt but respectful nod, which Shepard returned.
The turian was Nylus Kryik a spectre for the Citadel Council.
Shepard was curious why a Council Spectre would take part in voyage to Eden Prime. The Normandy was co-developed by human and turian engineers, so it's possible that this is the start of the Normandy having a joint human-turian crew. However, it was unlikely that bridge was going to be built soon.
Ever since Nihlus came aboard, there has been a lot gossip going around that this was no ordinary shakedown-run. And Shepard's gut says the rumors are right.
"Relay is hot, acquiring approach vector." The Normandy's helmsman announced to the whole crew. "All stations secure for transit."
Shepard glanced down at ship's helmsman who was gently yet rapidly tapping down the orange holoboard displaying the ship's controls. The Commander couldn't be sure, but he looked rather relaxed piloting the most advance ship in the Alliance Navy. What he was sure about is that Flight Lieutenant Jeff Moreau is the assigned helmsman to pilot the Normandy.
"Board is green. Approach run as begun."
Shepard soon felt the ship build up acceleration. He looked over at the side view ports seeing bursts of energy appearing outside the ship signaling that the they were locking on the the Mass Relay.
Lieutenant Moreau's voice sounded off again. "Hitting the relay in... 3...2...1..."
A sharp jolt is felt throughout the ship meaning that the ship is now in transit from the Mass Relay's energy. However, being a spacer, Shepard has grown accustomed to Mass Relay travel.
"Okay... Lemme see here." Moreau muttered before announcing loudly. "Thrusters... check. Navigation is operational. Internal emissions sink engaged. All systems online." He clicked his tongue. "Drift... just under 1500k." He sunk back into his chair being more loose and relaxed.
"1500 is good." Nylus stoically praised Moreau. "Captain Anderson will be pleased, Lieutenant."
The Spectre gave Shepard another respectful nod before departing the cockpit. The Commander returned his attention to his front with his hands behind his back.
Mureau frowned. "I hate that guy."
One of the technicians seated next to the helmsman glanced at Moreau snickering. "Sooo... you hate Nihlus, because he gave you a compliment?"
"It's the way he complimented me, Alenko!" Moreau argued. "Zipping your jumpsuit on that way out of the restroom? That's good! But I just jumped us halfway across the galaxy and hit a target the size of a mega pinhead. I think that's incredible! Besides, Spectres are trouble. It doesn't excite me to have one on board. Call me paranoid."
"You're paranoid." Staff Lieutenant Alenko teased. "The Council helped fund this project, remember? They have a right to send someone to see if their investment pays off."
Moreau shook his head. "That's what I like to call the 'official story', Alenko. Only an idiot believes the official story."
Shepard agreed with Moreau. The Council doesn't send Spectres on shakedown runs. Even if it's constructed by human and turian engineers. That sounds more suited for a high ranking military official of the Turian Hierarchy.
"You raise a good point, Lieutenant Moreau. But I advise you to keep your opinions to yourself." Shepard spoke.
Moreau gasped. "Oh sh- sorry, sir! I didn't realize you were there!"
Alenko suddenly rose from his seat and offered the Commander a sharp salute.
"Commander Shepard! It's good to see you again, sir!"
Shepard returned the salute and stretched a small smile. "Likewise, Lieutenant. Congratulations on your promotion."
"Thank you, sir."
A digital chime went off.
"Joker!" Captain Anderson's voice came over the comms. "Give me an update!"
"We cleared the Mass Relay, Captain." Joker replied. "Stealth Systems are engaged... Everything looks solid. ETA to Eden Prime seventeen minutes."
"Good." Anderson answered. "Link us into first comm buoy you come across. I want mission reports relayed back to Alliance Brass before we reach Eden Prime."
"Aye-aye, Captain. Might wanna prepare yourself for Nihlus, sir. I think Nihlus is on his way."
"He's already here, Lieutenant." Anderson's professional voice strained with annoyance.
Moreau bowed his head down thinking he's made a fool of himself. Kaidan shook his head and rolled his eyes.
"Tell Commander Shepard to meet me in the comm room for a debriefing."
The line was cut.
"You get that, Commander?" Joker asked Shepard.
"I heard, Joker." Shepard responded addressed the Flight Lieutenant by his humorous nickname. "Carry on, gentlemen."
Joker let out a feigned gasp and turned to see the Commander departing from the cockpit and muttered in amazement, "Commander John Shepard just said my name..."
Kaidan chuckled. "That's Lieutenant Commander John Shepard for you."
Joker scoffed. "Same thing. And is it just me, or does the Captain always sound a little pissed off?"
"Only when he's talking to you, Joker." Kaidan joked.
*MESC*
Shepard walked back down the path past the technicians making his way back to the CIC where his ears caught a mild argument coming from Navigation Officer Charles Pressly. From what the Commander's hearing, Pressly is openly expressing his concern of having a Spectre on board and it's clear from the other crew members were feeling the same thing.
The Commander knew this was going to be problem. It's understandable to be concerned of being dragged into more than what the crew as been assigned to do. It's highly likely that with Nihlus being on board, it'll come to that. But with this sort of gossip coming from the head Navigator Officer could be counterproductive and make the crew more unsettled with this behavior openly coming from an officer.
"XO on deck!" A crew member barked.
Everyone in the CIC snapped to attention saluting the Commander, including Pressly who turned in a sharp 180 degree direction and saluted Shepard.
Charles Pressly was older looking man, possibly the oldest man on the ship. A man above average height, Pressly's white thinning hair was neat and proper, and his features were a light tan. Like Shepard, Pressly served with distinction during the Skyllian Blitz aboard the SSV Agincourt- a frigate that was named after a game changing battle during the Hundred Year War- however, his role didn't carry the same amount of heroism Shepard performed.
"At ease." Shepard evenly ordered. The CIC staff and everyone resumed their duties, except for Pressly.
"Looks like a smooth run so far, Commander." The Navigator Officer said. "You heading down to see Captain Anderson?"
Shepard nodded. "I am. But I heard you having your concerns about our guest."
Pressly stiffened his stance. "Yes, sir." He stammered. "Permission to speak freely, Commander?"
"Granted."
Pressly loosened his composure. "It's about our assignment. If all we're supposed to do is test out the stealth system, why is Captain Anderson in charge? And then there's Nihlus!" He took in a deep breath to calm his nerves. Pressly was a good and competent officer, but was know for being easy irritated. "Spectres are elite operatives. the Council's Covert Agents. Why would they send a Spectre -a Turian Spectre- on a shakedown run?" He shook his head. "It's not adding up, sir."
The more he heard the rumors, the more they sounded more like fact than nerves.
"Do you have a problem with a Captain?" Shepard's question was more of curiosity rather than a passive warning to fall in line.
Nonetheless, Pressly winced nervously. "No, sir!" He stammered, but relaxed when he saw no hostility in the Commander's expression. "But I-I can't figure out what he's doing here! Apart from you, Captain Anderson is one of the most decorated forces officers in the Alliance. If all his medals were melted down, he could make a life size statue of himself. The Brass usually doesn't send officers of that recognition on a do nothing mission. Not to mention he's treating this shakedown run too seriously. My gut tells me something big is going on."
Your gut may be right. Shepard thought.
"What about Nihlus?" Shepard asked. "Seems you don't trust him."
Pressly casually shrugged. "Not a fan of turians in general. Runs in the family I guess. My grandfather was on Shanxi when the Turian fleet hit. He lost a lot of friends during the occupation."
Shepard scowled at his comment. It's no surprise that there are a lot in the Alliance who have some disdain for the Turians, mostly coming from first generation Alliance. He even witnessed this sort of discriminatory behavior from his Drill Instructor back on Macapa, and first generation NCO's and officers. However, after hearing this nonsense for the possibly the thousandth time, it feels this sort of thinking is just pure idiocy.
"You can't blame one turian for something that happened twenty-six years ago, Pressly." Shepard sternly said. "I understand your concerns of having a Spectre on board, but officially species discrimination is prohibited. So you'll given two standing orders while you're on board this vessel: Keep the rumors and your prejudices to yourself. Am I clear?"
Pressly tensed up, feeling anxious and ashamed that he displeased a living legend. "Yes sir. This won't be a problem."
Shepard turned to the rest of the staff. "That goes for all of you. Am I understood!"
"Yes sir!" The staff chorused.
Shepard nodded. "Carry on, Pressly."
"Yes, sir!" Pressly saluted and returned to his duties.
Shepard returned the saluted and carried on towards comm room, which was only meters away from the CIC. The Commander spotted another conversation going on between Corporal Richard Jenkins and Chief Medical Officer Karen Chakwas. It was the same gossip about this mission mostly coming from Jenkins while Chakwas was rather dismissive of his claims. It's possible that Chakwas was doing her part to quell the rumors.
Jenkins was a young but promising marine. He was fairly tall, barely trailing the commander in height. He had an impressive physique underneath his marine BDU, but more in a thin runners build. Like the majority of younger marines, Jenkins was born and raised out in the colonies, Eden Prime to be more specific. Shepard smirked seeing the kid looking rather enthused than skeptical about this assignment.
Shepard stopped in front of the Corporal and the Doctor, and was rewarded a salute from Jenkins, which he returns.
Jenkins relaxed his stance, but his enthusiasm didn't wane. "Commander, we won't be staying too long on Eden Prime are we? I'm itching for some real action!"
"And your 'real action' usually ends with me patching you up in the infirmary!" Chakwas scolded.
"You need to calm down, Corporal." Shepard told him. "A marine keeps a cool head even under fire."
"Sorry, Commander." Normally apologies are frowned upon, but right now, Shepard couldn't be mad at the kid. "This waiting is killing me! I mean with a Spectre on board, it's just got me all pumped up right now."
Shepard revealed a smile towards Jenkins. "Just treat this like any other assignment and everything will work out."
"That's easy for you to say! You made your mark in the Blitz! Everyone know what you can do! This could be my big break I need to show the Brass what I can do!"
Shepard scowled. "You're young Corporal. You may have a good start, but you have a long career ahead of you. Don't mess anything up this early on."
"Don't worry, sir! I'm not going to screw this up!" Jenkins's happy to go did not diminish under Shepard's sharp change in tone.
Chakwas chuckled. "At least you're not lacking enthusiasm, Jenkins." She turned to the Commander. "Must be from all those spy vids kids watch these days."
Shepard grinned professionally holding in a chuckle. "As you were, Corporal. Doctor."
"Aye-aye sir!" Jenkins saluted.
"Understood, Commander." Chakwas nodded.
Shepard moved on passed the two sentries guarding the door into the comm room. The marines snapped to attention as the commander entered the room, but not before her offered them both a returning salute.
The Comm Room is a fairly spacious circular room with little to know furniture. There was almost nothing in this room that looked to be of any use, but Shepard knew that looks can be deceiving. What instantly grabbed Shepard's attention is Nihlus with his back turned.
As Shepard stopped right in the middle of the room, Nihlus cocked his head and turned around with his eyes focused on the Commander.
"Lieutenant Commander John Shepard." Nihlus greeted Shepard by his full name and rank with great interest. "I was hoping you would be here first. It will give us a chance to talk."
Shepard's brows furrowed with caution. "About what?"
Nihlus casually turned and took a few slow steps forward. "I'm interested in this colony we're en route to, Eden Prime. I hear it's breathtaking."
"People say it's a paradise." Shepard chose his words carefully.
"Yes a paradise." Nihlus faced Shepard again crossing his arms. "Serene, tranquil, safe. Eden Prime has become something of a symbol for the Alliance has it?" He casually paced himself back and fourth while he continued talking. "Proof that humanity cannot only establish colonies across the galaxy, but also protect them. But how safe is it really?"
Everything Nihlus said was true. Eden Prime is an exemplary colony of self-sustainability, standard of living, and security. Normally Alliance Colonies are given small token garrison forces that are mainly used to scout and report enemy threats rather than engaging them. But Eden Prime's sizable and well-armed defenses special exception. The agrarian colony's heavy fertility, Alliance and corporate interest, and extremely thorough eco development is enough to post a sizable marine garrison with ground defenses and small token of cruisers and frigates to defend the planet from any space faring threat.
Shepard grew suspicious of these questions. "Is there something I should know?"
Nihlus ceased his pacing stops right in front of Shepard. "Your people achieved so much in a short amount of time, Shepard. But humans are still newcomers, and the galaxy can be a very dangerous place. I want to ask you if you think the Alliance is ready for this?"
Shepard was unsure of what he meant. He's seen how dangerous firsthand the galaxy can be, so why was Nihlus telling him this? Could it be to refresh his memory in case he got in over his head? Or is there truly something Nihlus knows that Shepard, that humanity doesn't know about? Whatever it was, he feels the Alliance will have to be ready for whatever comes next.
Before Shepard could demand a more direct answer from Nihlus, the doors to the Comm Room faintly hissed open. Shepard glanced behind him before fully turning to salute Captain Anderson who was coming to meet the Spectre and his XO.
He stopped with Nihlus in front of him and Shepard from his left. "I think it's about time we inform the Commander of what's really going on."
Nihlus nodded in agreement and turned to Shepard. "As you may have noticed from the crew, this mission is far more than a simple shakedown run."
I figured there was something you were not telling us. Shepard thought but said aloud. "Am I going to be filled in on what's going on, Captain?"
"We're making a covert pickup on Eden Prime. That's why we needed the stealth systems operational." Anderson revealed.
Shepard's eyes shot up a little. "Why weren't we debriefed about this pickup, Captain?"
"This came from the top, Shepard." Anderson replied. "Information is on a strict need to know basis. Yesterday at 1524 hours TCU time, A research team on Eden Prime unearthed some kind of beacon during an excavation. It was Protehan."
Anderson expected Shepard to be mildly amazed at this news, but there was know change in his expression.
"What else can you tell me that's on a need to know basis, sir?" Shepard asked bluntly.
Anderson slightly raised his hands expressing the importance of this beacon. "This is huge, Commander. The last time humanity made a discovery like this, it jumped our technology forward two-hundred years. But Eden Prime's facilities don't have the proper resources to deal with something like this. So we've been ordered to bring the beacon back to the Citadel for proper study."
"Obviously this goes on mere human interests, Commander." Nihlus added. "This discovery could affect every species in Council Space."
"Are we expecting trouble?" Shepard asked. He knew the Council wouldn't send a Spectre for a simple delivery run. Even if the delivery was classified as covert.
Nihlus nodded walking towards Shepard. "I'm always expecting trouble."
"The Beacon's identity has been compromised." Anderson explained. "Shortly after it's discovery, one of the researchers recorded footage of the beacon and it's origin. It's been uploaded onto the extranet, but Union STG operatives encrypted the footage from being shown in Council Space. However, Eden Prime is all in an uproar about this."
That caught Shepard's attention. "Has there been resistance?"
Anderson shook his head. "Fortunately no. Right now, it's strictly civil disobedience with scientists and colonists affiliated with the Eden Prime Independence committee. It's highly unlikely that there will be an armed insurgency, but we can't take any chances. Especially with Eden Prime being close to Terminus Space."
Shepard frowned. Even Eden Prime was no exception when it comes to secessionist movements. He thought any colonial movement saying that their colony should break away from the Alliance is filled with people that are selfish and short sighted. There has been talk of colonist planning taking up arms against the Alliance, but aside from a few small standoffs, it had never came to that. However with this Beacon, he could see this situation degrading into a full on riot.
And that's just a best case scenario. Eden Prime's cluster happens to be not far from Hegemony space, which is hostile towards the Alliance. Officially, there is no war between the Alliance and the Hegemony, but that hasn't stop the batarians from heavily funding pirate raids on human colonies. Their most successful plunder was on the homestead colony of Mindoir and that was just a minor raid against only a few marines. The dreadful Skyllian Blitz was their biggest disaster, but even then they still continue to pillage and raze human colonies wherever and whenever they can. And with this Prothean Beacon unearthed, Shepard can't help but feel Eden Prime may suffer another Blitz. And that's what worried him the most.
"The Beacon's not the only reason I'm here, Commander." Nihlus added.
"Nihlus wants to see you in action, Commander. He's here to evaluate you." Anderson revealed another hidden secret.
Shepard cocked an eyebrow looking at Nihlus and then at the Anderson. "What's going on here, Captain?"
"The Alliance has been pushing this for a long time." Anderson explained. "Humanity wants a larger role in shaping interstellar policy. We plan to have more say in the Citadel Council, and the Spectre's represent the Council's power and authority. If they accept a human into their ranks, it shows how far the Alliance has come."
Shepard darted his eyes down and mildly crunched his nose. It's no question that they were referring to him becoming the first human Spectre. It's true the Alliance may benefit from this, but the Commander was not thrilled about this choice. He couldn't describe why he didn't approve of becoming a Spectre candidate, it was merely a strong feeling.
"You successfully repelled a massive invasion force with only a handful of defenders. It takes unparalleled and courage and skill to overpower the Blitz. Which is why your Alliance recommended you as a candidate, and why I forwarded your name to the Council."
"I assume this decision is final with the Brass?" Shepard asked. Though he already knew the answer.
"The Alliance needs this Shepard." Was Anderson's answer. "We're counting on you."
Nihlus stared intently at the Commander. "I need to see your skills for myself, Commander. I believe Eden Prime will be the first of several missions together."
Joker's voice came over the intercom. "Captain! I gotta transmission from Eden Prime through emergency channels! Audio and live footage!"
Anderson narrowed his eyes. "Bring it up on screen!" He ordered, not wasting a second.
Captain Anderson, Commander Shepard, and Council Spectre Nihlus turned to face the front of the Comm room where the live feed popped up showing what appeared to be marines in an intense engagement. The smooth cracking of standard issued Lancer Assault Rifle bursts from steady hands of a woman outfitted in heavy Phoenix combat armor.
It was one of the very first models for Alliance marines, most specifically during the First Contact War. The armor was designed for simple and durable protection, but it was unpopular with marines due to them being uncomfortable and heavy. However, the marine wearing the older bulkier model moved fluidly and effortlessly towards two marines couching and laying down short bursts of fire. She began barking out orders waving crisp hand signals and a marine rushed past her. The camera jerked away from the woman and showed pockets of marines scattered in a loose circle formation shooting out into the uneven terrain.
They were surrounded! Despite this, it appear the marines didn't made themselves easy targets. Their formation was fluid and mobile making them seem they were on the offensive. However, as tenacious as their resistance was, it appeared they would be overpowered by their attackers.
The camera jerked towards a marine who appeared to be holding it. He wore no helmet showing his bloodied face.
"Arcturus Station, this is the 2nd Frontier Division! Eden Prime is under attack by unidentified hostiles! There not batarians! Repeat: Invaders are not batarian pirates or slavers! Payload Cacheback is compromised! We need a damn response group! NOW!"
The marine suddenly jolted his body back before plunging to his back motionless, and the footage now shot up to the sky to see something unfathomable and terrifying. It looked like a giant purple prawn slowly but gradually descending from the smoking clouds. The purple titan curled it's tentacles in a slow chilling motion before a low rumbling roar overpowers all the gunfire and explosion. In an instant, red lightning flashes from the tentacles and the camera shakes away from the sky and towards the ground. The marines began running in all directions while the ground erupted around them. They were routed and overwhelmed. Before their gruesome fate could be shown, the feed is cut and everything was loud static.
Shepard's eyes widened a little and felt a cruel chill throughout his chest. Whatever it was, it resembled a spacefaring vessel, but he didn't recognize what kind of ship it is. Whatever it was, it wasn't Alliance, so it must be hostile.
"Everything cuts out after that. No comm traffic at all." Joker's voice was a welcoming change to the dreading footage. "Just... it's just nothing."
Anderson's stoic expression did not falter. "Reverse and hold 38.5" He ordered.
The holoscreen zipped through the images until it once again showed the nightmarish titan with it's tentacles fully extended.
Shepard's eyes narrowed and took in a deep breath through his nose before seeping out air through his barely open mouth.
Nihlus's tangibles twitched at the image, but remained deathly silent.
Silence. That's the only sound that filled the comm room until Anderson called out, "Status report!"
"Eight minutes out captain. No contact from the Defense Flotilla."
Have they been wiped out? A whole flotilla? Shepard pondered in his mind. The only logical suspects are Terminus raiders, but the Commander doubted that they would carry out such a successful attack. It's more likely that this is something else entirely.
"Remain on current course, Joker. Fast and quiet." The Captain said.
"Aye aye, Captain."
Anderson turned to Shepard. "This has gotten much more complicated." He said grimly.
"I'll get the ground team ready, Captain." Shepard said.
"Make it so, Commander."
Shepard saluted Anderson and marched sharply out of the comm room.
Anderson turned to face Nihlus. "We're not going to have a lot of time to secure the Beacon."
"That's what I'm here for, Captain." Nihlus assured him. "I'll be scouting ahead of Shepard's team giving them them updates on what I come across."
Anderson scowled at the Turian. "Let me clear on one matter: You might be a Council Spectre, but if you get my men in a situation where they'll be killed, there is going to be hell to pay."
Nihlus's expression was heard to read, but Anderson had a feeling he's not intimidated by the Captain's threat. He read Anderson's file, although some there are some details that can't be touched, even with his Spectre status. What he does know is that the Captain was a then 2nd Lieutenant and only twenty-years-old when he fought the Hierarchy in the impacting Relay 314 Incident -what Humanity called the First Contact War. Nihlus had a feeling that underneath Anderson's professional courtesy is a grudge against turians. If that's true, Nihlus can't blame the Captain, but he wished such petty disdain could be cast aside fully.
"Not all turians resent humanity, Captain. Some of us see potential of what humanity has to offer to the galactic community. And what Shepard has to offer to the Spectres." Nihlus turned to leave but not before glancing back at Anderson. "I won't endanger your men, Captain. I'm only here to see Shepard secure the Beacon."
The doors hissed closed signaling that the turian spectre took his leave.
Alone, all Captain Anderson could feel is a nasty sense of nostalgia. The situation is different, but the consequences feel the same. Should Shepard slip up, just once, this will be more than enough to keep Shepard out of the Spectres.
Casting fears of failing the mission aside, Anderson bowed his head and closed his eyes hoping that the colony -and it's inhabitants- will endure and survive this nightmare.
Sooo... First Chapter. What do you guys think? :)
References from Mass Effect Revelations, and Mercenaries.
CODEX
TCU: Terran Coordinate Universal/Standard time used by Humanity