V: ULTIMATUM - ACT I: AFTERMATH
The following chapter outline details the first twelve chapters of Ultimatum, which would have covered the first act of the story, ACT I: AFTERMATH. As the act title suggests, it would have covered the immediate aftermath of the Reaper War, and continued on almost straight from IV: Holocaust's epilogue.
Prologue:
Chapter opens from Tali's POV. Chapter opens with a flashback to the Liberation of Rannoch during the Reaper War, where Tali watches through a vidscreen as Marcus battles Oblivion. She watches his form leap from the Reaper, jumping into the water as a massive flash consumes Oblivion's eye. Tali merely watches as Legion begins to pilot the tank towards Marcus' location. Just as they reach him, Tali wakes up. Back in the present, Tali opens her eyes to reveal she is standing on top of Firebase Alpha headquarters, watching as rescue craft glide over London, looking for survivors. She looks at the Beam, now inactive. The sun pokes through the dark clouds, with Earth's weather returning to normal as the dark clouds are cast aside, revealing a elcor corvette hovering above. She sighs, and begins to sob.
Chapter 1: Bleak Outlook:
Section 1:
Chapter opens from Kasumi's POV. It has been four days since the Normandy crew returned to Earth: the date is May 15, 2187. The war ended September 24, 2186. In Firebase India, which has been converted into a dextro habitation so that dextro species can eat dextro rations, Kasumi approaches Garrus, who is organizing with Corinthus about the distribution of the rations, arguing that the quarians should have their fair share due to their part in the fight; the batarians will just have to share. Corinthus agrees, and moves to inform the new batarian commander, Ocrolya Khabcass, of Garrus' decision. Kasumi tells Garrus that she has tried to find Tali, but can't find her anywhere; she feels like the quarian is deliberately avoiding them all. She urges him to speak with her, but Garrus simply replies that "she won't listen to me. She won't listen to anyone. She's gone, Kasumi." Kasumi wonders how she can help her friend, and Garrus replies that they can't at this point, and only Tali has the power to move on. The two of them embrace.
Section 2:
Section is from Zaeed's POV. Zaeed supervises his men as they clean up the Citadel, Aria joining him. She asks how he managed to gain control of the Eclipse and Blood Pack, and Zaeed replies that it wasn't hard; Sayn was killed during the battle, and the Eclipse leadership was so dismantled that no chain of command existed; it allowed Zaeed to seize control seamlessly. As for the Blood Pack...Gryll was stupid and killed very easily, and a krogan named Talyth Kar took over. He was then killed, and with Grunt possessing his warhammer, the Blood Pack had noone with enough balls to take over; so Zaeed stepped up. With that in mind, the Blue Suns, Eclipse and Blood Pack were all effectively under Zaeed's command. Aria asks what he plans to do with them, and at the moment he's having them help clean up the Citadel in preparation for repairs; this time, it would take alot longer than two years. He states that they found survivors in the emergency siege bunker, but that Renmark wasn't among them. He tells her that if she plans to take full control of the mercs, she's wrong; they are under his command, and he will not spit on Shepard's name by having them return to ruining people's lives. He then leaves Aria dazed, but grinning.
Section 3:
Section is from Miranda's POV. Miranda works around the clock to organize the logistics for the remainder of Hammer and the resistance, and tries to set up a temporary, but stable, system of communicating with the rest of the planet. She is interrupted by Wrex, accompanied by Grunt (who now has the warhammer on his back as a permanent weapon), who asks how the logistics for the krogan are going. Miranda replies that she is trying her best, but they need a way of getting the individual Hammer forces back to their worlds or people are going to starve; they simply don't have enough dextro rations to keep the turians, quarians and batarians going for very long; however, the geth are being very expedient in helping clean up the rubble of the battle, and Victus is currently coordinating with the other forces of the UGC to find a way to round up the Reaper corpses and dispose of them. At current, the entire area around the Reaper corpses (including husks) has been sealed off, and a quarantine zone of at least 20 kilometers set up around them; the geth need to confirm that the indoctrination signal is no longer functional before letting anyone tamper with it.
Section 4:
Section is from Hackett's POV. On the Moreh, Hackett meets with Admiral Daro'Xen. Hackett listens to Xen and her scientists, and agrees that reactivation of the mass relays is essential. Xen explains that while the Crucible did disable all Reaper technology, it didn't completely destroy it; the Reapers as a consciousness have been eradicated, but their technology only lies dormant; this includes the mass relays; if a way can be found to reactivate the Charon Relay, then the same thing could be adapted to all the relays. Xen asks for permission to have her fleet dispatch to the Charon Relay to prepare it for repairs. Hackett agrees, but asks her to coordinate with the salarian STG for greater effiency. Xen is reluctant, but eventually gives in, and Hackett leaves to contact Padok Wiks.
Chapter 2: Terra Firma:
Section 1:
Chapter opens from Miranda's POV. Miranda enters Hyde Park to check on progress there. She takes note that the UGC has set up a military perimeter around the Beam, sealing it off and restricting access to all but the highest and most senior of personnel. Far to the west of the park however, Miranda does not fail to notice the construction of a large memorial. Miranda asks what is going on, and sees that asari, salarians, quarians, hanar and humans are working together to create a makeshift war memorial, stating that building it in Hyde Park feels appropriate, as that is where the war was won. Miranda tells them to keep building, but states that perhaps the Crucible can be brought down to be used as a base; after all, the Crucible is what ended the war in the first place. She then leaves to investigate the Beam, informing the guards of who she is. The guards let her in.
Section 2:
Section is from Kaidan's POV. Kaidan, Liara, Chakwas, Gardner, Adams, Gabby and Ken watch as the Normandy is brought into dock on the Citadel, all seven of them lamenting at how beaten the ship looks. Kaidan states that the ship is being fully decommissioned, as the resources for repairing it are simply non-existent at present, and that the galactic economy is on the verge of collapse as it is. Adams asks if the ship will be scrapped, but Kaidan says it will not, and instead will be placed in the war memorial that is currently being built in Hyde Park. Before he can say much else, they are approached by a recently promoted alliance admiral, Aaron Keps, who informs them that due to their exemplary service, all members of the crew will be given the necessary medals, but have otherwise been reassigned. With this said, he officially announces to Kaidan that he has been promoted to Lieutenant Colonel, and will await his own reassignment.
Section 3:
Section is from James' POV. James thinks about Keeling as he approaches the barracks set up in London, and remembers his pledge: he will continue in her footsteps, and won't let Fehl Prime drag him down. Entering the office, he approaches the senior N7 commander, and announces his intention to begin training for N7, placing down the commendation awarded to him by Hackett. The commander asks why James didn't join sooner, as the commendation was awarded months ago. James replies that "they had a war to win. My priorities were elsewhere." The N7 nods, replying, "Correct answer. Welcome to the N7." The two shake hands, and James smiles.
Section 4:
Section is from Aria's POV. Aria, along with Ahz, Bray and her daughter, Sata, begin plans for returning to Omega, with Aria becoming impatient. She complains about Zaeed's refusal to give her back the mercenary groups, and laments at how much of a cancer Marcus has become, even in death. Sata calls Aria out on her moral corruption, stating that Marcus was a much better leader than Aria, and that Aria needs to stop being so selfish if she wants to continue controlling Omega. She storms out, disgusted by Aria's attitude.
Section 5:
Section is from Hackett's POV. A man approaches Hackett in the Council Chambers, who has a proposal. Hackett asks him to identify himself, and he reveals himself to be Connor Faringar, an Alliance politician. Who states that the UGC is now obsolete, and that a proper government needs to be established; a New Council. Hackett asks why he thinks the UGC is no longer relevant, to which Faringar replies that the UGC was an emergency military conglomeration brought together out of desperation and a mutual need to destroy a common foe. That foe is now dead, and the UGC by itself holds no future or prosperity; it has served its purpose, but a proper unification of the galaxy needs to be established; with the Council dead and its old values no longer relevant, it was time for a new order; a New Council where all species have a position and a say in galactic politics. Hackett agrees, and will prepare to display it before the UGC Senate; Hackett is the new Consul in Shepard's place, not that a position like that will hold much weigh if a vote for a New Council is passed.
Chapter 3: Subjective Victory:
Section 1:
Chapter opens from Bailey's POV. Bailey recovers in one of the many medical camps set up around the Citadel, and he demands to meet with a senior executive to find out if anyone else survived. The nurse tells him to calm down, replying that everyone who was in the bunker is alive and well, with some just taking longer to recover than others. She urges him to lie down, but he replies that he has done enough of that and wishes to help with the clean up efforts. Leaving the tent, he meets with the asari commander of the camp, who turns out to be General Yelewa L'Yan, and asks what remains of C-Sec. Yelewa replies that C-Sec has lost 89 percent of its forces and assets, and the gap has been filled by whatever UGC forces can be supplied. Bailey asks if he can coordinate with these forces to search for more survivors, to which Yelewa says that doing so would be a huge waste of time. Bailey states he'll do it himself if he has to, and the asari general replies that he'll have to, as she won't be reassigning troops from policing and clean up duties to look for survivors that don't exist. Bailey storms off, going to recruit others for his mission.
Section 2:
Section is from Adams' POV. Adams, Gabby, Ken, Gardner and Chakwas sit in the mess hall of the Alliance cruiser, SSV Baltimore. They contemplate their future, wandering what the hell they'll do now that the Normandy has effectively been decommissioned.
Section 3:
Section is from Terez's POV. Michael Terez, a Cerberus agent, is contacted via QEC by Connor Faringar. Terez is a former Alliance parliamentarian who retired just before the Battle of Arcturus during the Reaper War. Connor, aware of Terez's connections with the old Terra Firma Party (of who were all killed, including their leader Charles Saracino, during the Battle of Arcturus as well), tells Terez that he may have a chance to make a difference once more. Terez says he is done with politics, but Connor replies that he isn't until he says he is; he informs Terez that change is needed, and that the Alliance was weak even before the war. Using evidence he has obtained from Cerberus' (Terez does not know of the information's source) archives regarding the Alliance's coverup of the Reaper threat, their ignorance of the Collector abductions and their "lap dog" policy regarding the Council ("lap dog policy" referring to the Alliance sucking up and acting as a "yes man" to the Council). All this information he has provided would be enough to stir up public anger, especially given their current stance on Marcus as a galactic hero. Riots, demonstrations, petitions...all of it would result. Terez asks why this would be desirable, and Connor replies that the Alliance would be finished, allowing for a new order to take its place; one voted in by the people. The riots and public discontent would be too much to ignore, and one particular person would be there to suggest a particular referendum to redraft the Systems Alliance Charter. This referendum, if successful (and Faringar assures Terez it will be successful), would lead to a double dissolution of the Alliance parliament, as well as a new government being instated, as well as a new charter. Terez knows this person will be him, but tells Connor he will need a political party to make this happen. Faringar nods, and states that a new political party, The Voice of Shepard, has already begun the rise, and many politicians have already elected to join it; ex-Terra Firma, former members of UNAS congress, etc. They will all accept Terez as their leader, if he should accept. Terez, convinced, decides to join, and Connor nods in approval as everything is set in motion.
Section 4:
Section is from Bellerophon's POV. On Despoina 2181, Bellerophon observes the UGC repairing London, and contemplates their ignorance and arrogance. It communicates to its fellow Leviathans that the time has come to reclaim their place in the galaxy, and with the Reapers gone, they will be left unchallenged. It will take time however, and they must first gather allies before they can even begin to act; weapons will need to be built, and forces accumulated. The Leviathans are patient however, and now they have time on their side as well.
Chapter 4: Not All Is Lost:
Section 1:
Chapter opens from Xen's POV. Two months later, Xen and her scientists, complimented by the best scientists the STG have available in the Sol System, continue to tamper with the Charon Relay. Using Zero-G equipment, Xen manages to lead them further inside, investigating every inch of the relay. She mentally fumes at the lack of progress they've made, as two months have passed while the Victory Fleet has been stuck over and on Earth, and they still haven't found a way to reactivate the mass relay. Just as her head scientist prepares to give up, Xen spots a hidden component inside. She contacts the Moreh, asking if they still have one of those EMP weapons they used during the Second Morning War. They reply yes, and Xen orders them to send evac shuttles to pick them up, announcing she may have found a solution. Once back on the Moreh, Xen orders a concentrated EMP pulse fired at a specific location on the relay. The ship fires, and several seconds pass. Suddenly, the rings begin to spin slowly, before eventually reaching their normal levels, and eezo begins to build up. The entire crew cheer as the mass relay suddenly roars to life, and returns to its previous state of activity. The salarians ask how Xen managed to do it, and she replies that if the Reaper technology had simply been switched off, all it needed was a spark to get it going again. She orders the Moreh to contact Hackett and relay the good news; they have found a way to reactivate the relays.
Section 2:
Section is from Tali's POV. Moses manages to finally find Tali, the quarian running her hands along the side of a Mako silently. The geth prime tries to console her, but she ignores it, telling Moses to go away. Moses replies that moping around will do no good and neither will it bring Marcus back. Tali asks what Moses would know about loss, and the prime replies that it knows nothing about such things, but it dedicated itself to being her protector, which means preserving her life: if she tries to take her own, he is obligated to stop her. Tali merely mumbles "noted", before ignoring the geth. Moses leaves, and Tali continues to gaze at the Mako blankly.
Section 3:
Section is from Victus' POV. Primarch Victus learns of the relay's activation, and informs Hackett. The two of them discuss the possibilities of this discovery, realizing that the galaxy may be able to recover much faster. Hackett proposes that a few task forces be sent to each of the homeworlds to guage the general situation of the galaxy, and that Xen and her scientists should be sent through to also help repair the relays on those ends. Victus agrees.
Section 4:
Section is from Miranda's POV. Coats meets with Miranda, who is looking over the creation of the makeshift Reaper War memorial. She asks for a status report on how repairs in London are going, and he replies that they are going surprisingly well, and will proceed even better now that news of a solution for fixing relays has been found. Miranda agrees, and proposes that reconstruction efforts begin; they've spent enough time dwelling on the aftermath, and need to look to the future. Coats replies that the geth have confirmed that all Reaper technology has been cleansed, and that no indoctrination signal exists anymore. Miranda nods, and orders him to begin relaying the go-ahead to the Victory Fleet to begin moving all Reaper corpses, husk and ship, and to gather them around Mars. Once done, they will decide what to do with them. She also orders that deconstruction crews begin dismantling the Beam; whether through bombs or careful deconstruction, she doesn't care; in her words, "just get rid of it. I'm sick of looking at the fucking thing."
Chapter 5: Another's Loss Is Another's Gain:
Section 1:
Chapter opens from Liara's POV. Liara sits down quietly in a makeshift office, sipping at human tea that she remarks tastes "surprisingly good." Javik asks her to hurry up and ask her questions, as he grows tired. It is revealed that they have begun writing Liara's book, and Javik grumbles that she hasn't even come up with a title yet. After trying numerous titles, she gives up and decides to focus on the actual content. She asks him about his family, and he replies that he only knew his mother, as his father had been captured and indoctrinated many years before. His mother was the only immediate family he had left, as all the rest had been wiped out; several years later, she too would be killed during the Siege of Paravarvar XV. Javik states he entered cryo sleep on Olos Trak, the world the current cycle calls Eden Prime, and that was the last he saw of his cycle; he woke up what felt like mere minutes later, but had actually been fifty thousand years. He finally concludes that he would rather not speak of his family, and Liara agrees, and they move on.
Section 2:
Section is from Kaidan's POV. Kaidan looks around the Spectre office, which has taken heavy damage with many areas cut off by rubble and power inoperable. He sighs, before being interrupted as Rahna enters, who remarks that she knew he'd be here. The two of them hug and share a deep kiss, with Kaidan expressing his worry that she had been killed when the Reapers invaded the station; she states that she managed to hide under a skycar during the attack and escaped detection by Reaper occupation forces. Kaidan simply expresses his happiness at her being alive, and that he could use some good news amongst all the death. Rahna gives her condolences for Shepard's death and Kaidan simply states that all they can do now is honor his memory by rebuilding the galaxy. He then chuckles, stating that they should at least start with this room. Rahna laughs with him, and uses her biotics to begin lifting rubble, and Kaidan joins her.
Section 3:
Section is from Garrus' POV. Garrus approaches Liara's makeshift office and knocks on the door. Liara tells him to come in, and he enters to find her sorting through lots of paperwork. When asked, Liara states that she was coordinating with asari, salarian and geth engineers to begin deploying some makeshift, temporary comm buoys until new ones can be built to replace the ones destroyed by the Reapers. Until then, they have no contact with the outside galaxy other than the basic intersolar comms that most warships and vessels possess. Wrex walks in at this moment, apparently having heard Liara's statement, complaining about his lack of ability to contact Tuchanka, groaning that while he is stuck on Earth, he is missing the rebirth of his people. Garrus asks how Bakara was the last time Wrex saw her, and the krogan states that they "mated" enough to start an entirely new faction. Liara groans, stating that that statement was "too much information." Wrex just chuckles, telling them that the rebirth of the krogan is in full swing, before groaning again, saying "and I'm bloody missing it! Least they could have is some varren meat to eat!" At that moment, a male Alliance soldier named Valters bursts in, asking if they had seen his cat, Arnold. They admit they haven't, and Valters leaves, telling them to tell him if they do. Once gone, Liara and Garrus both look at Wrex accusingly, and Wrex simply shrugs, saying "well, its their fault for not providing any real meat. That...thing barely had any meat on it as it was, and it was looking at me weird. I think it was challenging me." Liara just facepalms, remarking that she has other things to worry about other than trying to tell an Alliance soldier why a powerful krogan warchief ate his damn cat. Wrex leaves, telling them that he is leaving to find something to do, to which Garrus shouts out at him not to eat any other poor animal. Liara asks why Garrus wanted to see her in the first place and he pulls out two bottles of wine he confiscated on some good will and shares it with Liara. Liara asks if this is strictly a good idea, especially given the stigma surrounding sharing a wine with a woman who isn't your partner, and Kasumi decloaks next to him, remarking that she "isn't letting Garbear out of her sight." The three of them laugh, and share a drink.
Section 4:
Section is from Gerrel's POV. On the Citadel, Gerrel stomps up to Admiral Hackett and demands that Hackett act on the fanatics part of the Voice of Shepard. Hackett replies that Gerrel is the sixth complaintant he has spoken with today, and that the Voice of Shepard are simply exercising their democratic rights and they've done nothing wrong so far. Gerrel states that they have constantly harassed him and other quarians in the camp, constantly asking for their vote in the election. Hackett once again emphasizes the fact that they democratically protected, although he will admit that their policies worry him: especially that they wish to rewrite the Charter to turn the Alliance into a Coalition. Gerrel states that such actions can't be allowed, especially when the galaxy is just barely getting back on its feet. Hackett agrees, stating that he doesn't necessarily agree with the Voice of Shepard's policies, but there's nothing he can do without them committing illegal acts. The current prime minister, the replacement for Shastri by the name of Jameson Kestrel, is the only one who can even take an iota of action against the Voice of Shepard, and even then he can only launch media campaigns to stem their progress; Kestrel's party, Labor (which is one of the two major parties: Labor and Liberal), holds the majority seats in the House of Representatives at current, whereas Liberal holds the majority seats in the Senate. The Voice of Shepard managed to exploit a loophole in the Systems Alliance Charter that allows them to form a third major party to compete with Liberal and Labor. The leader of the Voice of Shepard, Michael Terez, has found funding in unknown sources, which has pitted him above Liberal and Labor, who had to be heavily reorganized after the majority of their members on each side were killed during the Fall of Arcturus. Because of this, and Michael Terez's policies regarding exploiting the lies of the Alliance for hiding the Reaper threat, their pro-Shepard agenda and their growing support, it is likely that Voice of Shepard will win the emergency election, which would spell disaster for the Systems Alliance. Gerrel asks what Hackett thinks they should do, and Hackett replies that he has never cared for politics; personally, he believes that the Systems Alliance leadership does have to answer for what they've done, and that a new form of government could be good for Earth; the disorganization of the Alliance has made it impossible to cooperate effectively, and the emergency election has made any organized rebuilding efforts deconcentrated and a complete mess. Gerrel hopes Hackett is right, but Hackett tells Gerrel to stay out of it, as human politics are none of his concern. Gerrel replies to the contrary, stating that whoever wins could have an anti-quarian view. Hackett laughs, reiterating that the group is named Voice of Shepard, and that pro-quarian agenda should be at the forefront, otherwise they face the risk of ironic attention. Gerrel simply huffs and storms out, secretly worried about this Voice of Shepard party.
Chapter 6: Voice of Shepard:
Section 1:
Chapter opens from the perspective of an unknown figure. An unknown figure wakes up, standing. Looking around, he hears the disembodied voice of the Great Intelligence, who asks him if his sacrifice was really worth it, almost taunting him. The unknown figure snaps back, mockingly asking where the Intelligence is now. The Intelligence replies, "I am gone. And perhaps that is the problem you've left the galaxy with: what to do now? What happens to their unity now that the cause of it is but a shattered memory? You watch, and you see. Chaos will reign without us to stop it. You will evolve uncontrollably, and destroy everything you once held dear. At least you won't be there to witness it." The Intelligence then leaves, with the figure left confused before falling asleep again. The figure is implied to be Shepard, but never confirmed in this section.
Section 2:
Section is from Terez's POV. Michael Terez, as well as senior members of his party, celebrate their victory, as their election campaigns are going well. Terez affirms his belief that the elections in two months will weigh in their favor, and they will finally dissolve the Alliance and bring about good, positive change that will benefit Earth, her nations and all her colonies. Raising his glass, he shouts "To the Coalition!" and everybody cheers, drinking their own champagne glasses. There is a knock, and Terez asks the man in. One of his security guards (who work for a security firm called Sentinel) walks in and tells him a man named Connor Faringar wishes to see him. His party members look at him with confusion, with one bringing up the fact that Faringar is a Liberal party member. Terez nods and asks them to clear the room. They do so, and the guard brings in Faringar. He asks the guard to leave and seal the door. Once outside, Faringar compliments Terez on his campaign, but muses that none of it could have been possible if not for their mutual beneficiary. Terez nods, but is worried that the other parties may pull a few tricks to stay in power, especially with the SIA. Faringar just scoffs, stating that all the pieces are in place, and that neither the other parties or the SIA will be a problem, especially given the SIA's weakened state. Terez asks what Faringar wants, and Faringar merely replies that he wants what their friend wants, and that's for a new world order; the Systems Alliance's folly cannot be allowed to continue. Terez replies that dissolving the entire Systems Alliance even in power will be no easy task; the democratic process will have to be met. Faringar just chuckles, stating "don't worry. Once they see what we want them to see, they'll be snarling for the Alliance to burn. We will crucify them, Terez. Do not fret. You just occupy yourself with your campaign speech; I'm sure you've got a lot to say. Just remember: the best lie is one shrouded in truth. Show them the hard evidence. Give them what they want while we get what we want in return. Just keep it simple: we don't want civil war, just for them to get a bit angry. Be the Voice of Shepard." Faringar then leaves, leaving Terez to mull over what was said.
Section 3:
Section is from Hackett's POV. Hackett, with Primarch Victus, Prime Minister Jameson Kestrel and Dalatrass Ledra, discuss the current state of the galaxy. The absence of the asari is made clear immediately when they speak about their treachery in hiding the asari library. With the four of them basically forming the interim Council, they decide that the first act of the New Council, once drafted and accepted, will be to reach a compromise; the asari will be allowed a seat, but never again will they wield the power they originally had. Strict trade sanctions will be placed on the Republics once the economy has recovered, the Treaty of Farixen will be revised and they will wield less democratic powers than the rest of the Council races as punishment for their crimes. Once a vote is made, the rest of the interim Council agrees, and they move onto the next matter of business; what to do with the Reaper corpses. Victus and Hackett immediately suggest dispatching warships to retrieve the bodies and gather them around Mars. Once all Reaper corpses are recovered, they can be towed into the sun. Husk bodies will be tossed into pits and burned en masse, starting with Earth, the worst hit. Ledra disagrees however, his salarian nature suggesting that the lack of the indoctrination signal has now made Reaper tech salvagable, and that they shouldn't waste this opportunity to expand their technology and learn the intricacies of the Reapers. Hackett shakes his head, stating that Reaper technology is pure evil, and that harnessing it would be a mistake. Victus agrees, until Kestrel speaks up in support of Ledra, stating that such research would benefit all races, allowing for the improvement of many technologies. Hackett states that this would also the allow the creation of bigger, deadlier weapons, even powerful WMDs. Victus ultimately comes to a disagreement, stating to Hackett that the technology is present and shouldn't go to waste, and that using it would also help speed up the rebuilding process. Hackett sighs and finally agrees, asking what they should do. Kestrel brings up that the Russians have gotten their hands on a Reaper destroyer corpse in Siberia, and that their research should start there; instead of destroying the Reaper bodies, they will either be repurposed or sent to research facilities throughout the solar system. Kestrel suggests leaving it up to Hackett to organize the logistics of it. Eventually, they all come to a conclusion and vote yes, passing the proposal.
Section 4:
Section is from Xen's POV. Xen watches the Charon Relay from the bridge of the Moreh, watching as it spins and operates like it did before. She hypothesizes that the activation of one end of the relay would trigger the activation of the other side, meaning one ship should be able to pass through. With this in mind, she watches as the Alarei, a ship she ordered to go through mere moments before, enters the relay. When she starts to think the ship was sent to oblivion, the Alarei returns, confirming activation of the other side of the relay; their ship had ended up in the Exodus Cluster in the Utopia System. Xen grins, realizing that her people could be much closer to returning home than expected. She orders several more ships to go through and make contact with Eden Prime; if any comm buoys can be found, galaxy-wide contact could be established. She sits back in her seat, contemplating what she'll do once she returns to Rannoch. She then remembers her age old ambition, turning to the geth navigator beside her. She concludes that the geth are still mere slaves, and that their upgraded processing power will only make them all the more efficient.
Chapter 7: Where Liberty First Fell:
Section 1:
Chapter opens from Ann Bryson's POV. Ann Bryson goes over her notes one final time as her shuttle descends into Siberia. She has no idea where she was going, only that an SIA agent had approached her and asked her who she was. She remembers replying with her name, and the SIA agent had merely replied that she had died when the ship she was on, SSV Farragut, exploded (which was an Alliance ship destroyed during Operation: Stormwind). Ann is confused, and the agent explains that she has been reassigned to a highly classified scientific operation in Siberia, and that any mention of her work cannot be allowed to be released to the public; because of this, she must live in Siberia, but be dead to the rest of the galaxy. He explains that she cannot change this, as the ship was already destroyed, and a lack of a corpse will leave everybody none the wiser. Ann agrees to come, but only after the agent replies that her work is for the betterment of not just humanity, but the whole galaxy. Back to the present, her shuttle arrives in Siberia. The agent who acquired her, identifying himself as simply Locke, tells her to zip up, as the temperatures in their area have reached below zero. He escorts her off the shuttle and towards the base, snow blasting her face and numbing it. Once inside, he shows her through an observation window what she will be studying, and she is shocked to see the dead Reaper destroyer, covered in snow. He explains that she will have the best resources made available to her, as well as the best and brightest. A salarian affirms this, stating he works for the STG, and that both they, the SIA and the turian Blackwatch are working colloboratively on this covert project. Locke will be her personal guard should she need protection. Ann asks what she is studying, and the salarian replies, "Everything. Every nook and cranny. Every secret that's held in there the government wants dissected, poked and prodded. Tear this thing apart if you need to. Unlock its secrets, Doctor Bryson. You're looking at what used to be our greatest enemy, but is now our greatest edge. Think of the technology that can be unlocked; who knows how far ahead the Reapers were technologically; perhaps they weren't even the most advanced. That's your job; to find out. Can you handle it?" Ann nods, but is interrupted when the door opens, another agent (a fairly attractive female) stepping inside to tell Locke that she recovered the second asset. Locke orders her sent in, and a grunt is heard followed by a groan as the woman is shoved inside, straightening her outfit as she complains at her treatment. She states, "I was just lying down to enjoy a jacuzzi when that uncouth heathen somehow broke into my apartment and basically pulled me all the way down into a frozen hell! Still, didn't mind the company, I guess..." Locke simply nods, replying, "We were aware of your preferences, so we accomodated. We knew you'd be more likely to come if we sent a calming element." The salarian bows to the woman, who Ann is trying to recognize. The salarian says, "We apologize for the sudden nature of what you may see as an abduction, but discretion was but gone for us; time is hasty, and we must use what resources we have. We hear you're one of the best; hence why you are here. You're going to be Dr. Ann Bryson's assistant." That peaks the woman's attention and she quickly shakes Ann's hand, laughing, "I remember you! Marcus saved you during his mission to hunt the Leviathan! Do you remember me? I'm Communications Specialist Samantha Traynor...well, used to be. I'm not now, that is..." Samantha frowns, turning back to them, "Why me, though? Why not Tali? She knows more about artificial intelligence than I ever will."
The salarian sighs, nodding, "We understand and acknowledge the technological prodigy that Mrs. Shepard is, but we also have to acknowledge her mental state at current. She has not been in a correct state of mind." Ann points out that it is understandable, and the salarian nods, continuing, "As so, she is not fit or in the right state of mind to be conducting such delicate research. We would also call on Daro'Xen for help, but it appears she is fixated on bringing back the mass relay network; a much more prevalent task that we do not wish to impede. As a result, you are here in their stead. Your service on the Normandy was exemplary, as is your ability to think on your feet. Consider this an official transfer." Afterwards, Samantha and Ann simply look up at the Reaper, and Samantha jokes about what a gargantuan task they have ahead of them, before quickly asking when they can start. Ann smiles, accepting her situation: now. They can start now.
Section 2:
Section is from Connor Faringar's POV. Faringar (from his POV) meets up with Hackett, Victus, Ledra and Kestrel as they discuss the New Council draft. He states that every race must have a part in the New Council for it be accepted, although he acknowledges that the asari must be punished for their lies and scheming; however, there can be no alienation. Every race must have representation if they wish it, including races such as the quarians and batarians. With this in mind, he recommends drawing up a basic draft and releasing it to the available leadership so that candidates can be sorted out immediately. The group agrees, and Faringar nods his head in secret, smug victory.
Section 3:
Section is from Liara's POV. Liara gets in contact with one of her agents on Earth, learning that he was part of the unit in which Feron served. She knew he had been dead for quite a while, but needed to know exactly how he died, and whether he died quickly. The agent enters her makeshift office, and begins to recount to her the events of what happened: their scouting mission on Rothla. As per orders, Feron and his men had deployed on Rothla to scout out possible resource deposits for use in building the Crucible. They unknowingly ran into Reaper forces, who had landed on the cracked planet to destroy the illegal mining facility that had been discovered to be sending mined resources and sending them to the war on Darvug. Feron ordered his men to return to the shuttle, but he was overwhelmed in the process, leading to the deaths of himself and most of his men. Liara nods, thanking the agent for the report and telling him he's dismissed. After he's left, she goes to recover the rest of the bottle Garrus gave her, when she hears a knock again. Telling them to enter, she is surprised to watch Tali enter. She asks what the quarian wants, and Tali simply shrugs, asking how things are. Liara says she just got an official report of Feron's death, and surmises that the both of them have alot of mourning to do now. Tali agrees, and the two of them begin to weep together, holding each other out of comfort to the other.
Section 4:
Section is from Gerrel's POV. Gerrel visits a medical tent, asking to see the lone occupant. Once inside, he sees Madi'Reegar sitting on a bed, blankly looking at the wall. Upon hearing him enter, she turns to him, and he sees that she is clearly pregnant, at least in the early stages. He offers his condolences for Kal's death. Considering the couple's hero status, Gerrel decides that Madi will be well looked after, and her child will not know a life of emptiness. He compares Kal's sacrifice to Reby the Pathfinder from ancient times, who gave her life to lead the first expedition across the Jf'baba Ocean and into the Land of the Blind Pilgrims (modern-day Far'leh Continent); an expedition that allowed the complete union of the quarian species. Kal was an embodiment of her purpose; to unite the quarian people against a common foe as a symbol of the quarian's involvement in the war. Madi thanks Gerrel, and declares solemnly that she will name her child Reby in honor of Kal. Gerrel compliments her choice and leaves, smiling.
Chapter 8: Other Eyes:
Section 1:
Chapter opens from James' POV. James, whilst on Earth, spars against Kaidan and Coats while training for N7. He manages to defeat both of them in combat, but not before being severely beaten himself. He compliments the both of them on their fighting technique, shaking their hands as he laughs. Kaidan says he is certainly N7 material, and they'd be a fool to reject him, especially in times like these. James states that he'll continue to train regardless; he doesn't want to become an N7 just because they needed one, he wants to become an N7 because he earned it. Coats admires that, and Kaidan states that Shepard would be proud, and he was sure Anderson would put in a recommendation for James. James states that he plans to be ready when it comes time to do the fitness test. Just as they prepare to go at it again, another human officer enters the ring, asking them to halt. All three of them nod to the soldier, who is a major, just like Coats. He asks to watch James spar. James does so, managing to battle Kaidan and Coats for a while before being stopped by the major. The soldier reveals his name to be Roma Vinh, and states that James' technique isn't worthy of an N7. James is disappointed, while Kaidan asks what gives him the right to dictate that. Roma reveals himself to be an N7, and states that James' fighting style is too brutish to be recognized amongst the calculated techniques of N7s. James insists that Marcus Shepard gave his endorsement to James, and Roma just laughs, stating that Shepard became an N7 because he was a bloody hero; he didn't earn it like another N7 would. Kaidan just chuckles, arguing that holding off an army of ten thousand single-handedly is enough to earn an N7 rank one hundred times over. Roma scoffs, before leaving, stating that he will make every effort possible to ensure James does not join the N7. He states that he has seen men like James before, and that his "fuckup" on Fehl Prime has not been forgotten by the brass. He then leaves, leaving James angry.
Section 2:
Section is from Hackett's POV. The next week (just before the Alliance emergency election), Hackett sighs as he straightens his uniform, standing in the Council Chambers at one of the pedestals that once belonged to Councilor Valern. Prime Minister Jameson Kestrel, Dalatrass Ledra and Primarch Victus of the interim Council are also present, and Hackett turns back to watch as high-ranking officials of every species enter the chamber and take their places. Once the session has started, they open up with the Council's old "the Council is now in session". It is established that the other races were informed beforehand of the New Council's purpose, and Kestrel asks that every species send forth their candidates for councilor. Hackett is unsurprised when Connor Faringar steps forth, announcing that he has been voted for as the new human councilor. Kestrel is visibly annoyed by that, and Hackett just rolls his eyes at the inner politics of it all. For the turians, a man named Quentius is chosen, who states he was once an influential hierarch in the Hierarchy, and that he served with distinction and would make a perfect candidate for a new turian councilor. For the salarians, a woman named Esheel, who states that unlike Valern, who was ex-STG, she was a dalatrass, and therefore has more intimate understanding of politics than Valern ever did. When it comes to the asari, Kestrel announces that harsh sanctions will be imposed upon the asari for their role in the Athame Project, and with that comes ramifications; the asari will be allowed a Council seat, but their role will be severely limited, and for the next decade harsh economic sanctions will be imposed, and the Treaty of Farixen revised to ensure that the asari military is also reduced in strength. With this stated, another part of the punishment is the interim Council's ability to choose the asari councilor themselves, and Irissa steps forth as she is called. Irissa announces her intentions to answer for the crimes of her people, and promises the asari will do all they can to make amends. For the batarians, Ocrolya Khabcass steps forth. He states that when Balak Uherto was killed in battle, Khabcass took command, being the next most prolific leader for the batarian species; given his understanding of the political climate and his apparent rallying of the remaining batarian forces, it was decided by the remainder of the Hegemony that he would be councilor. For the volus, Din Korlack is chosen. For the elcor, Judge Calyn was chosen. For the hanar and drell, Yedanis is chosen. For the krogan, Urdnot Wrex stands up, stating that a proper krogan councilor will be decided upon once contact is reinitiated with Tuchanka, and until that time, Wrex will serve as an interim krogan councilor. The quarians do the same, choosing Veetor'Nara as their interim councilor given the quarian's surprise adeptness in the political world. The geth choose their own councilor, as they wish to be represented separately from the quarians. To this end, the geth choose Pythagoras their interim councilor, until a proper one is chosen. With this declared, all the new council members solemnly swear an oath to protect galactic peace and stability, and to allow the Reaper War to be a solemn reminder of the sacrifice that was made, and the unity that was birthed. With this declared, the New Council is born.
Section 3:
Section is from Gerrel's POV. Gerrel summons the geth to a meeting on the Neema. He finds himself coming to terms with his alliance with the geth, and even coming to respect them, mulling over that Marcus might have been right after all. Once inside, Gerrel states that the Rannochian Coalition might not be a permanent union, but the quarians and geth will still inhabit the same world, and therefore they must learn to cooperate. To that end, he brings up Koris' death during the final battle, and that there is now an empty spot on the admiralty board that must be filled. He finally declares his intention to allow a geth to fill the spot, and asks the geth who they would like to do so. The geth, surprised by Gerrel's sudden genorsity, chooses Caesar as the first geth admiral on the quarian Admiralty Board. Gerrel welcomes Caesar with open arms, and they both pray to the ancestors for a long and prosperous alliance between their two peoples.
Chapter 9: Moving On:
Section 1:
Chapter opens from Tali's POV. Tali sighs as she sits alone, looking out over the Earth landscape. She once again thinks back to that pivotal moment back on Rannoch, where she watched him climb Oblivion and destroy it with nothing but a single Cain missile. Her heart had beat so fast, and she thought he would die; and then he said he loved her, and she called him Mark for the first time. Returning to reality, the word "Mark" escapes her lips, and she looks back up at the Beam, which the UGC has begun to disassemble. She hears an announcement over the firebase PA, but doesn't hear what is said. She begins to cry again, but stops herself, refusing to give into the torment of mourning. She remembers what Shepard said to her in that final moment he passed her onto the Normandy. He told her to go make a life for herself, that she has a home on Rannoch. But her home was with Shepard, no matter what. She finally realizes the folly of her grieving, and how much of a pain she was being. While she cried and grieved, the world was moving on; governments were being built, cities reconstructed. Civilization was being reborn, but Tali was stuck in the past. She couldn't grieve forever, and no matter how much she wanted to, she couldn't kill herself; she had a child that needed her back on Rannoch, and she needed to get back to him. She finally reaches the conclusion that Shepard wouldn't want to do nothing with her life, and he'd want her to move on. Perhaps not right away, but she couldn't just mope around. She was being useless; her people needed her and she was doing nothing. With a final sniffle, she stands up, steeling herself. She decides that she will help rebuild the galaxy and become what she needs to be. With a final sigh, she turns towards Moses, who she knows has been standing behind her the entire time. She looks up into its optics, and she says, "I'm back."
Section 2:
Section is from Garrus' POV. Garrus is summoned to a meeting with Victus and the other turian commanders. He thinks over the recent announcement (the one Tali heard); the New Council has been formed. He disagrees with the choice to post Quentius, as his father Thotous had never liked the man, especially given his eccentric attitude. Garrus clasps on the final piece of his armor when a naked Kasumi crawls out of bed to kiss him on the back of the head, snuggling up to him. She winces, darting back under the sheets and complaining that cold steel makes him too cold to touch, groaning. He laughs, quipping that that "serves her right" for trying to seduce him into staying. Kasumi asks if he's calling her a seductress, but he merely chuckles. Kasumi sighs and stands up, grabbing her clothing as she begins to get dressed. Garrus complains, but Kasumi remarks that he has a meeting to go to, and she has a job as well. Garrus remarks that theft isn't a helpful job, and Kasumi just laughs, stating that stealing materials from one stubborn faction who refuses to share with another is called forcing alliances, something she got from Shepard. Garrus just laughs, tapping their foreheads before then leaving. Entering the building, the meeting begins, with Garrus apologizing for his lateness. Victus just glares at him before continuing, announcing a reorganization of the military. Commodore Megtus, the original survivor of the Citadel attack, is promoted to Fleet Admiral, and given full command of the Seventh Fleet. As for Corinthus, he has been promoted from ArchGeneral to Prime Legatus (secretary of defense), as he has a better candidate worthy of the position, and Corinthus served well on Palaven. Garrus asks who this new ArchGeneral is, and Victus simply looks at him. Garrus' eyes widen and he shakes his head, quickly disagreeing with the decision. Victus announces that there will be no negotiation, and declares Garrus the new ArchGeneral of the turian military. The other turians cheer, while Garrus gulps, shaking his head, mentally wishing he had simply stayed in bed with Kasumi.
Section 3:
Section is from Hackett's POV. Hackett sighs as he enters a meeting with Gerrel, wondering what the admiral could possibly want. He rationalizes that he is at least finally finished with playing politician with the New Council now formed, but that doesn't stop meetings from grating on his nerves, especially with a man as stubborn as Gerrel. Entering the room, Hackett is quickly surprised to see Connor Faringar and Veetor'Nara, along with Gerrel. Hackett asks exactly what this meeting is, and Kestrel asks him to take a seat. Once in place, Faringar states they are waiting on just one more person before they can start. A minute later, Hackett widens his eyes when Michael Terez, leader of Voice of Shepard, enters the room. Hackett asks Gerrel how he could possibly invite Terez when he was so adamantly against his party. Gerrel states that Terez, and everybody else, is present because a recent proposal made by Faringar. Faringar reveals that he has discussed with Terez, and come to an agreement that the quarians and humans have suffered innumerably together, and that their social similarities, mutual military cooperation and their treatment at the hands of the old Council has put them both in positions of mutual trust. The symbolic marriage of Shepard and Tali was a signification of the union between the human and quarian peoples, and that an alliance between the two would be beneficial. Hackett asks exactly what Faringar is getting at, when Gerrel buts in, saying that what Faringar suggests is not just a military alliance, but an economic, social and political bond between the quarian people and the Systems Alliance; it would be called the Terra-Rannochian Pact. Hackett laughs, stating that this is ultimately Kestrel's decision, and therefore not in their place to decide. Terez simply says, "Not if he's not in power, and we both know the favor sways with my party in this election. The next two months will decide the fate of the entire human race, and who governs them. When Terez gets in, the people will leap at the opportunity for this union; no one will think twice. Gerrel states that he didn't like Voice of Shepard at first, but their support of the quarian people has been surprisingly ornate, and he has now put his full support behind them. Hackett sighs, mumbling about how much he hates politics. Faringar remarks that Hackett may hate them, but ultimately, where fleets go and with whom is decided by the parliament. At that moment, Tali steps inside, much to their surprise. Tali tells Gerrel to step aside, as she has reassumed her position as chief admiral. She then does a turnaround and puts in her full support for the Voice of Shepard, and the crew of the Normandy will pledge their support as well. Hackett, surprised by this turn of events, finally gives in, and announces his intention to support Terez's party. Faringar smiles, announcing a new age of prosperity between their two peoples, and that such an alliance was simply destiny.
Section 4:
Section is from Tali's POV. Still stuck on Earth, Tali begins feeling cramps. Confused, she visits a doctor, only to have her worries confirmed: she is once again pregnant.
Chapter 10: Homebound:
Section 1:
Chapter opens from Xen's POV. One month later, Xen stands on the bridge of the Moreh outside the Charon Relay. She states her displeasure at the fact that the task group she sent through with the Alarei the third time hasn't returned in over a month. During the second time, they hadn't found any life left on Eden Prime, but had managed to find some operational comm buoys. The third time they went through they were told to leave the cluster and activate the nearest relay they find; that would have taken a week at most. One month later, and not so much as a communication attempt. Xen, outraged at this, orders a communication sent to the Citadel to inform the UGC Command of her task group's failure. Before she can successfully send this message, the task group returns through the relay, announcing critical success. Xen asks what took them so long, and they reply that they elected to find and activate more relays, and unprecedentally landed in the Tikkun System and made contact with the quarians on Rannoch. Comm buoys have been deployed in a long stretch from Earth to Rannoch, allowing for a slow connection to the extranet, and therefore equally slow, but operable, communications. The quarians on the bridge cheer as they realize they can finally go home, and Xen orders the message changed into a request for more ships, so as to speed up the repair of the mass relay network.
Section 2:
Section is from Wrex's POV. Wrex meets with Tali, Gerrel, Faringar and Terez, Together, they propose to Wrex the same thing they proposed to Hackett; a union. This time, they propose to Wrex a social, political, economical and military union between the Systems Alliance, the quarians, the geth and the krogan. Wrex is initially hesitant, and makes it clear he will not allow the krogan to be exploited for their military advantage. Tali assures him that the quarian people will not stand for this action if it were to occur, and the union would collapse. Wrex finally agrees, and the five of them shake hands on it.
Section 3:
Section is from Kaidan's POV. On the Citadel, Kaidan and Rahna share rations together on the edge of one of the medical camps. As they laugh and talk, an announcement is heard stationwide declaring that contact has been made with Rannoch, and that an expeditionary force is being assembled to travel the galaxy and activate a temporary comm buoy network. Cheers are heard across the camp, and Rahna holds onto Kaidan, smiling. In that moment, Kaidan decides the moment is perfect and proposes to Rahna. She laughs and accepts the proposal, kissing him.
Section 4:
Section is from Adams' POV. Kenneth, Gabby (both of them now married, although in secret), Adams, Chakwas and Gardner huddle around a campfire in Hyde Park as they watch the construction of the Reaper War Memorial. Chakwas wonders what happened to Samantha, while Ken and Gabby are worried they'll be reassigned to separate units. At that moment, a group of Voice of Shepard vote gatherers arrive, stating that if the Voice of Shepard are voted in, they will not have to worry about that. Chakwas flatly refuses to vote for them, stating that the real Shepard would never vote for the dissolution of the Alliance. The vote gatherers dispute that the real Shepard would have wanted justice for the people and for the Alliance to answer to their crimes; after all, the evidence is clear for all to see that they ignored his warnings and did nothing. Kenneth agrees, stating that very thing is why he and Gabby left the Alliance to begin with. Because of this, they choose to put their vote in Voice of Shepard. Gardner quickly agrees, stating the Voice of Shepard seems to be the only party not just concerned about their seat. Adams is hesitant, but eventually gives in. Chakwas still refuses to vote for them, and angrily denounces the group as betraying everything Shepard stood for before storming off.
Chapter 11: Reasoning:
Section 1:
Chapter opens from Tali's POV. Arriving on the Citadel, Tali looks over the landscape, shaking her head at the beaten look of the station. It isn't long before she watches a long column of geth engineers and rachni workers swarming through the lower parts of the station, having been finally deployed to aid in speeding up the repair process. She notes that repairs have gone much faster on the Citadel given that the Crucible only damaged the power systems. Because of this, restoring power to at least London was deemed a higher priority; before then, only basically life support was restored on the Citadel. Now that power has returned to London, the rachni and geth can turn their attention to bringing the Citadel back up and running and arranging for its transportation back to the Serpent Nebula. She turns to Gerrel, asking just how much longer it will be before the quarians return to Rannoch. Gerrel replies that their current situation begins that they will run out of dextro rations fairly soon, making returning to Rannoch necessary to preserve the remaining quarians of the fleet. With that in mind, Tali tells Gerrel to order all ships to prepare for departure, and that she will inform Hackett of their departure; the quarians are going home. She also tells Gerrel that she has plans for a system of government (a Republic) similar to what they possessed pre-exodus, and that she must speak with the conclave immediately upon returning to Rannoch. Once Gerrel is gone, Tali sits down and looks over the Citadel, letting her thoughts wander. She then opens her omni-tool and begins to type down her ideas.
Section 2:
Section is from Zaeed's POV. Zaeed faces resistance from within the Blood Pack and Eclipse over his de facto leadership over the three mercenary groups. A krogan named Grakk and an asari named Oeilia disagree with Zaeed taking over, and demand fair representation within their own groups. Zaeed tells them to stay in line or he'll kill them, before brandishing his rifle. Grakk growls and steps forward, only for Grunt to appear, warhammer on his back, telling them to back off. Grakk refuses to back down, grabbing Zaeed and knocking him to the ground. Grunt grabs his krogan warhammer and smashes Grakk in the gut, before knocking him the ground. Oeilia summons her biotics in an attempt to kill Grunt from behind, but Zaeed, while on the ground, grabs his combat knife and throws it, where it slams into her head, killing her. Grunt launches the killing blow, smashes his warhammer into Grakk's face, reducing it to mashed skull. Grunt states that if anyone else questions Massani's command, they'll end up like Grakk and Oeilia. The groups back down, and Zaeed thanks Grunt. He then notices a scratch on his rifle, Jessie, and kicks Grakk's corpse angrily, mentally cursing the krogan for damaging his precious weapon.
Section 3:
Section is from Tali's POV. The remaining Normandy crew are assembled in Firebase India, where they wander why they were summoned. Eventually, Tali arrives, Moses looming behind her as her bodyguard, and announces why they were assembled here; for her, this is goodbye. She declares her intention to have the Migrant Fleet return to Rannoch, where they will begin to rebuild their civilization; most of the geth forces will stay behind to aid in repairs, but some will return with the quarians. She states that it has been an honor serving with all of them, and that she was proud of getting to work with them. After a final goodbye, Tali, with Moses at her side, turns and leaves.
Section 4:
Section is from Xen's POV. Xen is outraged when Gerrel informs her of the Migrant Fleet's return to Rannoch and that she will remain behind for a few months until the mass relay network is brought back online. She asks who ordered it, and Gerrel replies that Tali did, as she believes Xen's work on the relays leaves her more experienced than anyone else. With that in mind, Xen swears to make Tali pay for wasting her time, and simply sits and watches as the Migrant Fleet enters the Charon Relay, watching as every individual ship travels through, spearheaded by the last liveship, the Rayya; Tali's temporary flagship.
Chapter 12: Going Home:
Section 1:
Chapter opens from Tali's POV. On the bridge of the Rayya, a month later, Tali watches as the Migrant Fleet exits FTL in the Tikkun system, and the crew sighs in relief, realizing they have finally returned home. Tali orders the Fleet to set a direct course for Rannoch, and listens as a geth cruiser patrollling the system greets them. Tali asks what has happened since they left, and the geth reply that Admiral Shala'Raan has assumed command of the overall colonization process and oversees all logistics across the planet. So far, they have only begun colonization in the Uma'Waz subcontinent. Tali tells the geth to tell Shala that they have returned home, and bring official news of their victory against the Reapers. Tali sighs, and for the first time since winning the war, feels a feeling of happiness.
Section 2:
Section is from James' POV. James, by himself in London, punches a punching bag with increasing aggression. While he does this he recounts everything that has happened in the past month. Support for the Voice of Shepard has been at an all time high, leaving Michael Terez's party yards ahead of Jameson Kestrel's Labor and Benjamin Kempokoff's Liberal. However, due to the general chaos of the aftermath of the Reaper War, and the lack of colonial votes, Kestrel put forward a petition to the Systems Alliance Electoral Commission to postpone the election until a proper election can be done. Unsurprisingly, the SAEC agreed to this, and the election was postponed indefinitely until an unknown time, leaving Kestrel as prime minister for an unknown amount of time; this would only delay the inevitable though, and once the election finally came, Terez's party would win. There was also the Migrant Fleet leaving for Rannoch a month ago, and most, if not all, power has been restored to the Citadel at this point. More cities around the world have checked in, including the virtually unscatched Israelis in Jerusalem, who have already branched out and retaken Tel Aviv and the Golan Heights. The Beam has been entirely dismantled, with some of the materials going missing (taken for the research in Siberia) and the rest being used to build the war memorial, which was finished a week ago, the Crucible being used as a finishing touch after it was disarmed and rendered harmless. After this mental recap, James stops punching when he hears the door open. Turning, he watches as Major Roma Vinh enters, who wonders the Lieutenant to stand at attention. He announces his intention to make James' life a living hell. When asked why he is doing this, Roma remarks that he has done it to many of the N7 recruits he deems unworthy, James among them. He read James' file after Fehl Prime, and was not impressed with how he handled the situation, even going so far as to call James incompetent. Roma then leaves soundlessly, and James returns to punching the bag, imagining that it is Roma he is punching.
Section 3:
Section is from Hackett's POV. Hackett listens to reports that most of the mass relay network has been brought back online, and that by mid-2188 (which is next year), the entire network will be restored. A basic comm buoy network will be set up by early 2189, allowing all of the Victory Fleet to return to their respective worlds to begin the reconstruction process. With this in mind, Hackett removes his cap and announces he will be taking his leave, believing that when everything was said and done, he could finally rest.
Section 4:
Section is from Garrus' POV. The Normandy crew share a moment together (without Tali and Moses, of course). They are in London and it is night time, with Luna raised high in the sky. The crew enjoy the view, mourning Shepard but ultimately preparing themselves for the future. The next decade would be long, torturous and an absolute blunder, but ultimately, despite being apart, they would still be a team. Shepard recruited them, and they made the bond. In honor of his name, they would stick together, even while separated.
A/N:
And that's the entirety of Act I - Aftermath. I'll upload the first part of Act II - Alliances next week. The point of Act I was to show every squadmate's mindset, and the current status of the galaxy post-Reaper War. From this point forward, things would have gotten gradually darker and darker, and the political intrigue heavier and heavier.
Keelah Re'lai, troopers!
