chapter 10: High Charity

First of all thanks to everyone for their reviews of the last chapter. I was worried about how you would find it but it appears my worries shouldn't have even existed. Again thanks everyone.

Now I'll just address something an anon (guest) mentioned. Just to clarify Commander Shepard is not in the story yet in fact he hasn't even been more. For now when I say John it's referring to Master Chief and when I say Jane that is for Noble Six. Also I've had a few people mention the lack of RvB. Will I do plan to have more characters from it in this fic but they will likely not appear soon. The same goes for people's ideas and suggestions because this fic will follow the events between now to that of ME. Just cause they are not in it yet doesn't mean they won't be.

Another thanks to Jonas Copperwire for his OC idea of Dr'Jasper Fyll and the paragraph marked in extra "". Thanks to MEleeSmashe for this Chapters title. Which was better than the one I originally had.

Edit 04/04/2013: The term OSA belongs to Halo: A New Age creators xpredatorx and Mistasilentkiller.

June 2, 2657/2157

Rohan System

Covenant Super-carrier "Long Night of Solace"

Bridge

The Long Night of Solace's journey slipspace journey was coming to an end. In a few moments time the fleet would be exiting slipspace and they would be at the political heart of the OSA. Rtas and Isonia had invited the Citadel Council to come to the Solace's bridge were they would get a good view of the space around Coruscant. All OSA personnel on the bridge knew that the Council were in for a real surprise when they saw the accomplishments of the OSA. The Council would now hopefully know their place.

The Council along with their guards and the ambassadors were waiting impatiently though. While they looked forward to seeing High Charity, tempers were still high over the OSA celebration. To Sparatus it felt like direct insult to both his kind and the Council. They were also uneasy about being around so many OSA personnel on the bridge. The feeling of course was mutual and many were particularly unhappy with the Council bringing along a few cameramen.

A Jiralhanae engineer suddenly shouted out, "Shipmistress, Fleetmaster we are about to exit slipspace."

That was music to both Rtas and Isonia's ears. Rtas moved closer to the window while Isonia address the Council. "No doubt you just heard that. If you would like a better view, then feel free to come closer to the window."

Apart from Sparatus everyone was happy to get a better look. Tevos and Valern moved to where Rtas was, politely passing by Isonia. Sparatus begrudgingly followed closely behind them along with Irissa, Esheel, Quentius and their security. The Cameramen moved forward with their cameras now recording.

Suddenly to them the Long Night of Solace started to shake as the fleet exited Slipspace. The OSA crew were unaware of the shacking because of their being used to it. Once they steadied themselves, much to the amusement of the OSA personnel, the council along with their security, ambassadors and the cameramen were totally taken back and unprepared for the scene that lay before them.

High Charity stood in front of them like a glistening purple screw shaped jewel in space. At seven times larger than the citadel the council were in awe, they had never believed anything like it could have been built. Then again they never thought it was possible to create a twenty-nine kilometre vessels and be able to fly it. Some found it unsettling at how much it resembled the Terminus space station Omega. It was anything but like Omega however, it was beautiful, magnificent, a work of art. It had more splendour than that of the citadel itself. The glare from the sun caused its large purple dome to sparkle and glisten, adding to its beauty. The council were unaware at how much High Charity had changed since the formation of the OSA. While it was still a sight to behold back then, it did not look as beautiful. Extensive work had been made to it over the past One-hundred and twenty-six years.

Then there was the planet, Coruscant as the OSA called it, which caught their attention. They didn't know what it was about it but they had the nagging feeling that there was something special about it. From where they were above the planet there appeared no greenery and no water. Then they noticed the dark side, it was covered in the jewellery of lights. They then noticed the strange patterns that were on the side facing the sun. Then it came to them, they were looking at a planet wide city. Such a thing seemed impossible to the Council. Some rationalized that the other side of the planet was likely covered in greenery and water. To them it was a ridiculous notion that a whole planet could by covered in a metropolis.

The cameramen began recording the other site before them that was truly a show of power, which left a few deeply concerned. Throughout Coruscants orbit were thousands, literally upon thousands of Orbital Defence Platforms. It was clear to them now that the OSA were ready for anything. The Councillors and their ambassadors had read the reports on the ODP's; one shot from them was enough to destroy a dreadnought. It would be foolish for anyone to attack the planet.

As if the ODP's weren't enough there was the fleet around High Charity and Coruscant that seriously caught their attention. Valern guessed there must have been 10'000 but the number in front of them was just uncountable. The fleet was made up of all different vessels from amongst the OSA races, UNSC, Mon-Calamari, Twi'Lek, Yautja and Covenant, the majority of which were the Covenant vessels. At least nine of the twenty-nine kilometre vessels were visible, dwarfing the whole fleet all together. As the Solace moved along its course to High Charity many of the fleet vessels moved out of its way, forming an arch or tunnel around the Solace.

While getting a good look at the Mon-Calamari Cruiser that they were passing by, the Council caught site of something they never, ever thought possible. As soon as the Cameramen caught site of it they went into a frenzy and started recording, much to the annoyance of the personnel they loomed over to get a shot.

Not far from High Charity the OSA were in the process of building two large objects about twice too three times High Charity's size. Both objects were spherical in shape and hollow, one had about a quarter of its surface to be finished and the other a third. From where they were the Council could see the extensive work that was being done on them, as large flashes of electricity filled the non-finished areas. The surface of them however was not like that of High Charity nor was it metallic looking (apart from the unfinished areas.) Instead what the Council saw was greenery, landmasses and areas of blue, of water. What they saw was like a small garden planet, for that was what the OSA were indeed making, small artificially built planets. The Council or indeed everyone was agape at such a feat. Though they had read about the Forerunners and their ability to create planets themselves, they had never actually believed it. To actually see it was incredible.

The Council and their ambassadors went into deep thought about what they were seeing in front of them. Tevos now realised it was very unlikely that the OSA would join the Citadel with all that they had. She would still try to persuade them though. One thing that made her happy though was that her believe that the OSA were peaceful like them had been reinforced. The fact the OSA had such a large military force, enough to take the whole galaxy but instead opted to live in peace with the council told her a lot. As well as all that based on the artistic design of High Charity, she looked forward to the sharing of culture and art between them and the OSA.

Valern was in a different state of mind however. He was quite terrified at the OSA's military might. Of course he too realised like Tevos that the OSA were peaceful since they went for peace instead of war of which they would have been the clear victors. The question for him however was what if they should ever change. He once again started going over things in his head at how the Council could better protect themselves. Despite that though, he was fascinated with the OSA's technology. The ability to create planets would be very useful for the Council since habitual worlds were a rare thing around the Relay Network. He really hoped the OSA would share some of their technology with them. And if they didn't how they could obtain it for themselves to keep up with the OSA.

Sparatus of course was jealous of all that the OSA had, their mighty fleets, superior technology and the ability to create planets. To him he saw a threat. Sure the OSA wanted peace now but how long would that last. For all they knew the OSA were waiting to increase their forces before attacking Citadel space. To him the OSA were a force that need to be brought under proper control. He knew the citadel council would need to increase their power before acting however.

Irissa, Esheel, Quentius were a curious bunch as they thought the opposite of their respected Councillor. Esheel was the only one that shared the same thoughts as her councillor Valern. She too was scared of the OSA's overall power but yet in awe of it at the same time.

Irissa was the complete opposite of Tevos. In fact her mind was more in line with that of Sparatus. She disliked the fact the OSA had refused to join the council and bend to their rules. Like Sparatus she believed there was room for only one galactic power in the galaxy and that was the Citadel Council. One could describe her as a winy child because she was not getting her own way.

Quentius interestingly was more in mind of Tevos than Sparatus despite being a Turian. He understood the OSA's actions and was thankful that they hadn't imposed further restrictions on his people. He of course was saddened that they had refused to join the council but seeing all that was before him made him understand why they had done so. The Turian in him was concerned with the military power that the OSA had but unlike Sparatus he didn't see the OSA as an immediate threat. In fact he saw them as a powerful ally and even admired their resolve not to bend to the will of others.

As the Citadel personnel continued to observe the view, the Solace's bridge crew set about bringing the ship close to High Charity.

"High Charity control, High Charity control this is the Long Night of Solace. We have the Citadel Council on board requesting permission to get with teleportation range and zone for teleportation," said Isonia into the comm.

"Long Night of Solace this is High Charity control, you are cleared for close range teleportation, zone Demon docking bay. A security team will meet the council there," came the voice of a male Mon-Calamari.

"Good," replied Isonia. She then looked up at the Council. "Councillors we will be teleporting you to High Charity in a few moments, please be ready."

High Charity

Demon Docking Bay

Awaiting the Citadel Council and its representatives in the Demon's docking bay (Where the Forward Unto Dawn was currently docked) was a contingent of Sangheili honour guards and Yautja predators along with several Spartans. Kurt, Will and Linda were watching what was going on outside in the bay from one of the Dawn's airlocks while Fred and Kelly watched from another. Noble along with Jerome, Douglas and Alice were resting at the back of the Dawn were they still had a good view of where the council would be teleported. Emile wasn't exactly happy that the Citadel Council would be using their docking bay.

"Right someone please tell me again why the senate decided the xeno's would be teleported to our bay?"

Jorge gave a very obvious sigh and groan. "Again Emile, this is the fifth time you've asked that."

"Yeah and for the fifth time we don't know," said Jun, modifying his sniper rifle, now getting fed up of Emiles questions.

Allice came up with a theory that she hoped would shut Emile up. "It could be because of the extra security we offer. The senate were probably worried about protesters getting into the other bays."

From inside his helmet Emile eyed her. "Protestors? There's no one here!"

"Exactly," she responded. "But would it be like that if the Councillors were coming in at another docking bay. Everyone respects us and fears us so they wouldn't entire our docking bay for fear of having to tangle with us."

Emile slumped back against the boxes he was laying on. "MMm I suppose." Everyone looked at each other with a sigh of relief which was oblivious to Emile.

Suddenly the walkway in front of the OSA security for the Council lit up. Several of the security that were sitting down stood up. Rtas and the Council along with their own security and several cameramen (total of thirty-two people) were left standing as the light disappeared.

"What, they brought their own media?" cried Emile as soon as he saw the cameras. Alice and Jun waved their hands up in the air in defeat while Jorge just slapped his forehead. Carter, Kat, Jerome and Douglas just shook their heads.

A beautiful green female Twi'lek wearing armour similar to that of an ODST walked through the OSA security and addressed the Council. Even from where Noble was, it wasn't hard to tell some of the Turians and even the Asari were eyeing her up.

"Hello and may I welcome you all to High Charity. I trust you had a pleasant trip with Shipmistress Isonia and Fleatmaster Rtas." As she said his name she looked at Rtas. "I am Servina'Ola, head of security for the senate chambers. If you will follow us please. "

While the Council walked by her, she noticed Noble and Blue and shouted to them. "Hoy Noble, Blue team the senate wants you to follow close behind us for extra security."

Without a word, Jorge, Jun, Carter, Kat, Jerome, Douglas and Alice all got up and grabbed their weapons. Emile was not so quite.

"What we got to act as babysitters." No one said a word. "At least I'll get to see the arguing when they found out what's going on at the chambers right now," he muttered under his breath.

"Hay Emile, you were certainly on the short straw for this one," shouted Williams knowing it would annoy Emile as they passed.

"Yeah come down and say that to my face Will!"

High Charity

Outside the senate chambers

The travel from the Demon's docking bay to the senate chambers went uneventful. The Council received a few looks here and there from passers-by and crowed had formed to watch and get a view of the new races. Their OSA security however deterred anyone from doing anything foolish. All thoughts of action against the council were removed from anyone's mind as soon as they caught site of Noble and Blue team following closely behind.

The Council visitors were amazed at how beautiful High Charity was. Councillor Tevos even comments at how much the area they were walking reminded her of the Citadel Presidium.

"Thank you, you honour us with that complement," said Rtas walking beside her. "But it wasn't always like this. Much work has been done to it over the years since Humanities joining."

Once they reached the senate chambers the head of security Servina'Ola left them along with several Sangheili honour guards to resume their duties. Noble and Blue team caught up with the group and moved round to Rtas's position. Rtas let the Spartans get into their positions before addressing the Citadel visitors.

"This is the senate chambers Councillors. I am going to have to ask you to please remain quite as they are currently in a session."

Valern was curious as to why the OSA senate would be having a session on right now. "Why are the in a session, do they not know we are here?"

"As I said back on the Solace you arrived much earlier than expected Councillors. The senate had a session planned for this time to deal with some matters. And yes they do likely not know of your arrival. So please remain quite."

Some of the visitor scoffed but complied with Rtas's wishes anyway. The door to the chambers opened revealing a large hallway similar to that of a hallway from the Solace albeit larger and with more artistic design. As they walked along, they could hear the session currently taking place.

"The plight of your people is a serious matter to us," came the Voice of Remorse.

High Charity

Senate Chambers

For the past three hours the OSA senate had been listening to Urdnot Wrex and the tales of his people. The chamber was completely full. All the senators were present with Optimus Prime and Thel Vadam appearing via hologram. Also present was Director Church of ONI along with Alpha. Lord Demoltitions stood with two Geth units, Legion and a Prime. John-S117, Blade and Jane-B312 stood with Marton at the bottom of one of the stands. Also present was Dr Jasper Fyll another unique Droid type created by Demoltions and Dr Halsey. He had Humanoid head unlike that of Demoltitions and his armour was pearl-like with gold trims.

Wrex left nothing about his people out; he revealed everything to them about their nuclear war and their first contact with the Salarians, their part in the war against the Rachni and the much of the Krogan rebellions.

Several senators were surprised with Wrex's forthcoming. From the description of the Krogan it seemed most likely that one would attempt to skirt around the issue of their savage nature. But Wrex made no such attempt; he knew that it was in his people's nature to be aggressive. He even admitted that it was the Krogans fault for starting the rebellions. But when it came to the Genophage he was adamant that his people did not deserve such a thing. He explained how he saw the reasoning behind it but now his people were suffering.

He told them many tales of the Krogan under the Genophage. Some of the stories even reduced some to tears. Queens Aleana'Ora and Artia cried greatly when Wrex told how Krogan females became so distrot at their first stillborn that they would commit or contemplate suicide. Many such as Adjudicator Bet-Karh were angered at the stories of males fighting each other to the death just in order to get at a fertile female. Many a jaw fell when Wrex told them of some Krogan's attempted to beat the Genophage, one of which left many blushing. Through it all no one talked, they waited patiently and quietly (minus the few cries here and there) until Wrex finished speaking.

There was complete silence until Remorse moved forward in her anti-gravity chair. "The plight of your people is a serious matter to us. It is clear to us all that the genophage is destroying your people." Amongst the senators there were murmurs of agreement. The Geth platforms present were very fascinated with what was going on.

"It is good that you recognise the necessity of the genophage at the time of its use," said Richards placing his hand on the table in front of him. "However the OSA agrees that by now it is nothing more of a war crime. Regardless of whether or not the council meant for the genophage to wipe out your people, it is clearly having that effect." Once again the senators murmured in agreement. Marton was smiling at the results.

"So what are you going to do to help us," Wrex asked.

"We will help your people but not in the way you are likely expecting," said Remorse.

Wrex shrugged. "What," sounding confused.

"We will allow trade between us and the clans of Tuchunga," said Xarew'Radei. And we will even help to rebuild your world's environment. But we cannot cure the genophage or allow your people to join usas of yet."

"Why not, you are allowing them to join you," Wrex roared pointing at the Geth platforms.

"Understand Krogan please, we would love to fix all your problems you people have as of now. But imagine if we did. You're people are not united, what if we cured the genophage and many of the clans decided to go to war with the council races. If it was anything like the rebellions then the OSA would most certainly get involved in order to protect the lives of the innocent," explained Richards.

"Plus," said Xarew'Radei. "There is the matter of your rapid birth rate which the Genophage impedes. In order to stop rapid expansion, birth limits would be needed in place or a modified version of the Genophage to allow your people to have at least one child. Now what if some clans don't like either of those options what would happen then?"

"What we are saying Krogan is that until your people are united under one banner the genophage cannot be cured or the Krogan have proper OSA membership. Individual clans will be allowed membership but unless you are united the genophage will not be cured," said Richards.

"Of course uniting your people will not be an easy task," said Remorse, "one that we will work hard towards. Marton has told us you are the true leader of a predominate Krogan clan. If you can help us to achieve this by uniting your people under you clan and leadership then we can begin the task of curing the genophage and…" Remorse was then rudely interrupted.

"What is the meaning of this," roared Sparatus as the Citadel visitors entered the main chamber. Many of the senators were shocked at their sudden appearance, they had no idea that they had arrived at High Charity.

"You dare think you can get involved in the affairs of the Krogan when they are under our jurisdiction," Sparatus continued to shout. Tevos looked really embarrassed.

"You will cure the genophage. It is our safety measure against their rappid expansion. The Krogan are violent and that is all they will ever know," said Valern sounding angry and worried.

Wrex looked ready to attack them but Marton placed a hand on his shoulder to stop him. Before any of the citadel visitors could speak Bet-Karh slimmed his fist onto the banister before him and stood up.

"Oh we're sorry we didn't know that the Krogan had an embassy on the citadel. Oh what that's right they don't. The Krogan are not of the Citadel and this is OSA business. Last I checked you are not part of the OSA so you will kindly keep out." Many senators nodded their heads and muttered in agreement. Wrex grind when he saw the Councillors disgruntled faces.

"Now see here," said Irissa pointing at Bet-Karh. That was as far as she got however. So far they hadn't noticed the Geth standing with Demolitions. But Esheel had, it had taken her a few moments to realise what they were though. When she did, she let out a scared scream of their name. Their security immediately tightened up and focused their weapons on the Geth. The Chambers security immediately tightened as well. Blade, John, Jane, Marton, Noble and Blue team and the Sangheili honour guards drew their weapons aiming them at the Citadel security personnel. The chambers were in an up-roar.

"What is the mean of this, order you warriors to lower their weapons are we will force them to," snarled Xarew'Rade.

"They will do no such thing," shouted Sparatus. "The Geth are a threat to the entire galaxy. You are truly fools to attempt to negotiate with them."

"Do not call us fools Turian," said the Droid Dr. Jasper Fyll. "The Geth are less of a threat to any of us than even our own kind."

"Humph I will not be told what to do by a blinking AI," said Sparatus.

"AI? Humph! I will have you know that not only am I fully sentient, I am also one of the most advanced Droids in existence. No offense to the Geth but calling me or AI ambassadors Alpha and Cortana an AI is like putting a Salarian in the same physical category as a krogan."

Wrex immediately went into a laughing fit at what Jasper had said. He loved the look on the offended Salarians faces. Most in the chamber even started to giggle amongst themselves. It wasn't likely every day that the Citadel races were insulted by an AI. Sparatus looked ready to explode. Remorse however put her foot down before things could escalate.

"Enough all of you, this session will return to order or I will order the Demons to restore it." Everyone went silent; Blade, Jane and John looked amongst themselves feeling slightly awkward. "Councillors as much as I disapprove of how Bet'Karh put it, he is right. You are no part of the OSA and thus have no stance in our matters as do we to you. The Krogan are a separate part and we will do with them as we see fit regardless of whether you approve. And as we stated before your fear of AIs are extremely exaggerated. The Geth are a threat to no one unless they are attack. They are also guests to High Charity and are planning on join us so unless you think we are ok with you threating a member of the OSA I suggest you get them to lower their weapons," Remorse said amazingly calmly to the Council.

"We understand," said Tevos. Both Irissa and Sparatus gave her an angry look.

"You heard them lower your weapons," said Quentius to their security. The Guards eyed the OSA's own security that had them outnumbered and looked ready to take them out. Slowly they lowered their weapons, holstering them again. Blade, John, Jane, Marton, Noble and Blue team and the Sangheili honour guards did the same.

"Right now that that is over perhaps we can proceed with what we invited the Council here for," said Richards happy that the arguing for now had ended.

"Yes, Councillors you may remember before we left you we mentioned a deal between us sort," said Remorse.

"Yes we remember that. What exactly would that be," asked Valern sounding bitter.

"Do not fear, we are not making a demand that will affect you negatively," said Remorse.

"Yeah, we have discussed this amongst ourselves and came to this decision," said Xarew'Rade. "While we will not follow your rules we will respect the law regarding the activation of any dormant Relay's. Should we find any, you will be notified as to its location. The same goes for any Prothean technology that we may find all of which will be handed to you since we have no use for it."

The Council were rather shocked by this proposal. They hadn't expected the OSA to follow any of their laws. Both Valern and Tevos were happy so far with what the OSA was proposing. They could see many benefits from this deal. Sparatus however was more focused on what the OSA was going to demand in return.

"In return for those," said Richards taking over from Rade. "The Citadel will report any Forerunner facilities that they may find to us and you will hand over all Forerunner technology."

This put a dampening on the Councils spirits, especially Valern and Sparatus. They knew that gaining Forerunner technology was the only way to gain an advantage over the OSA. They would need to agree however since they could risk Prothean technology falling into the OSA's hands, even if the Forerunners were more advanced than the Protheans.

Tevos stepped forward after getting reluctant looks of approval from Valern and Sparatus. "Councillors and senators, we the Citadel Council accept this deal."

"Good now we can get onto more serious matters. I see that you have cameramen with you. I am afraid they will have to leave along with anyone not authorized for classified information," said Remorse.

"My I ask why since that involves the removal of all our guards," Sparatus asked snidly.

"Some of the information we will share with you is highly classified and we will not share it with anyone who isn't authorized," said Xarew'Rade.

"We understand but what will they do in the meantime," asked Valern.

"We have arranged a tour of High Charity of which you can join if you want to when this is finished," said Richards. The mentioning of a tour of High Charity immediately got the cameramen who rushed after to meet their guides. The guards however were more reluctant and only left after Tevos signalled for them to leave.

"We are sorry for that Councillors however this is the real reason we invited you too High Charity. Only one of the things we will tell you is truly classified. Most that we will discuss, our people have knowledge of. However we didn't want to start a panic amongst your people by telling you at the Citadel since you have never encountered anything like them," said Remorse.

Valern, Tevos and Esheel all had a serious grim and uneasy feeling. "What could you want to share with us that would make our people panic," asked Tevos.

"They are serious threats to the galaxy which is why we feared panic would happen amongst your people," said Xarew'Rade.

"Threats, what kind of threat could there be except your use of AI," said Sparatus snidely again.

"You will see. Mendicant Bias please bring up image of threat species," said Richards.

"Of course Reclaimer."

In the centre of the chambers appeared the Holographic images of a standard Xenomorph and Xenomorph Queen. The Citadel Councillors and their ambassadors were repulsed by the creature's appearance.

"What are those monstrosities," asked Esheel.

"They are the Xenomorphs, Dr Jasper Fyll can explain more," said Xarew'Rade. All bare Quentius and Tevos weren't thrilled that an AI was going to be explaining the creatures before them.

"Yes well where to begin. These Xenomorphs as we call them are perhaps the most deadly of all the galaxy's creatures. They have a hard exoskeleton which can resist all but the post powerful weapons. You may notice it large tail, they use that as a weapon and nothing more. It is most certainly not used for balance. The can use their tails to impale their victims and even lift those heavier than them up to their mouth level." The hologram changed to show a video of a Xenompth impaling a Sangheili. Sparatus and Quentius were the only ones out of the six of them that could remain looking. The video stopped as the Sangheili was brought up to mouth level.

"You may think that the tail, its claws and mouth are the creature's only weapons. You are wrong interestingly the Xenomorphs have two mouths, the second which we call a secondary mouth or Maw. The Xenomorph lashes it out of its mouth and it can destroy anything it hits. This Maw is powered by extremely strong muscles inside its head." The video started playing again, show the Maw in action. All six of them had to look away as the Maw tore a hole through the Sangheili's helmet into the skull. They were unprepared for how quick it had happened. Valern and Tevos suddenly felt ill.

"Another feature of them is their blood. It does not carry nutrients or Oxygen. In fact the fluid is extremely highly concentrated acid. Their blood can burn through anything because of this, except for themselves of course. It also appears that they themselves know this since reports have mentioned how they would flick drops of blood at our soldiers."

"Excuse me but I fail to see how this is a threat to the galaxy," said Sparatus being ignorant. "We already deal with creatures like these such as the Thresher Maw."

"Ha I can assure you they are anything but like those giant worms of yours," shouted Bet'Karh.

"Bet'Karh is right one single Xenomorph can lead to the eradication of an entire planet. Though that does depend on its type. Anyway we will come to that in a minute." The hologram changed back into that of a Xenomorph Queen.

"The Xenomorphs are similar to the Rachni in that they have a hive mind though they are not as inelegant. This is a Xenomorph Queen, as you can probably already guess she controls the have lays the eggs that start their lifecycle." The image changed to that of a Xenomorph egg, it then showed a sickly colour crab like creature emerging from it.

"What the heck is that," asked Esheel.

"That my dear," said Jasper much to the amusement of most in the chambers. "Is a facehugger. You see the Xenomorphs have a parasitic stage of their life and this helps them to get to that stage. Once hatched from the egg the Facehugger will seek out the nearest life form and attach itself to the face." The hologram changed to show that happening to a Human.

"Once on the host it will rap its tail around the host's neck, then it will slowly tighten the tail in order to make the host gasp for oxygen and be rendered unconscious. By this point, the facehugger will insert a tube-like proboscis into the mouth and down the throat of the host, supplying the host with oxygen while implanting an embryo. The Embryo will grow inside the host until it is ready to leave. Once it has left the host t will grow into an adult. Depending on the host they will differ in appearance. The ones you saw were of a Human host."

"Wait what happens to the host though," asked Valern having a good idea at the outcome. Everyone remained silent as a new holographic video started to play. It showed a perfectly well looking Human. Then the Human started to convulse. Then suddenly and unexcitingly for the Councillors the human's chest burst open, blood and guts flying everywhere. All six of them became nausea and felt sick. Valern looked ready to faint. Sparatus even looked like he had lost colour, if that was possible for a Turian. The OSA senators were calm however. They had seen it all before but they knew what it was like seeing it for the first time. Dr Jasper Fyll went back to where he was standing earlier believing he was done.

"Thank you for that Jasper," said Richard politely. "As you can no doubt see councillors why we decided to discuss this in private with you."

"Yes indeed," said Tevos regaining her breath after that horrifying image.

"We believed it necessary to tell you this. Even though they cannot control ships they are still a threat to the Galaxy since a single facehugger can lead to the decimation of a planets population. If you find any we recommend you exterminate them immediately and if they have a planet over run you destroy it," said Xarew'Rade

Bet-Karh stood up. "Just so you know Councillors my kind has been fighting them for as long as we can remember. The rite of passage for a young Yautja is to go and kill a Xenomorph Queen. If you find an infestation please let us know and we will exterminate them."

"Thank you for the offer," said Tevos.

"Now onto the next matter. You can decide for yourselves whether you want to share the next threat Councillors," said Richards. "Optimus would you like to explain to the Council,"

"It would be my honour Councillors," he replied through transmission. The image of a strange purple pointed symbol appeared.

"So what is this meant to be AI," said Sparatus in a nasty manner. Several of the senators were really get angry with Sparatus comments. Optimus however ignored him, though at his end Iron'Hide was throwing a fit.

"This Councillors is the symbol of the Decepticons, our greatest enemy. They are Cybertronians like me but their views differ greatly from that of the Autobots. Where we believe in peace and freedom for all sentient beings, they believe in order and domination. For years we the Autobots fought over our homeworld Cybertron against them. Sadly we were losing the battle until the OSA came along and helped liberate our planet. Now they have spread to the stars and threaten any world they may come across. They cannot be negotiated with; if you see any vehicle or ship with this symbol it is likely a Decepticon. I would recommend extreme caution and if it is them you either engage them before they engage you or you notified the OSA."

"We understand," said Tevos.

"Also can I ask please that if you should ever find this object," the symbol changed to that of the AllSpark. "That you notify the OSA and return it to us."

"And why should we do that," shouted Irissa not happy with Optimus's request.

"Because that is the AllSpark and it belongs so us. It is what gave my kind life in this universe. We jettisoned it into space eons ago in order to keep it out of the hands of the Decepticons. Should they ever find it they will use it to transform any machines that they may find and build a new army."

The Councilors looked amongst themselves at the request Optimus had given them. In his mind Sparatus thought it better to keep the AllSpark out of the OSA's hands keep it for themselves. Valern was in a similar frame of mind particularly on the technological advances that they could gain, of course what Oprimus had said about 5the Decepticons gave him second thoughts. Tevos was all too happy to return the AllSpark should they find it, even if she wasn't too happy with giving it to AI's. She believed though it would be safer if it was kept with the OSA than the Council.

"If we find any information on this objected of yours we will send it straight to the ambassadors," she said much to the dismay of Valern and Sparatus.

"Thank you," said Optimus as he went back into his regular stance.

"Is that all you have to share with us or is there more," Valern asked.

"There is one more and this is a serious matter. Our own people don't even know of this. The AI's Alpha and Cortana can tell you more since both have had experience with the Flood," said Richards.

"The what," said Esheel confused. The avatars of Cortana and Alpha appeared across from each other near the stands.

Alpha had Mendicant Bias change the holographic image to that of a Flood Infection Form while Cortana started talking.

. "The Flood, a parasitic organism that is capable of infecting any organic being within seconds." The hologram of the infection form showed it attacking a Jiralhanae. The Jiralhanae tried desperately to remove the infection form but ultimately failed. The Flood stabbed its feathery tipped tentacles in to the Jiralhanae's neck, quickly infecting it. The Jiralhanae collapsed on it knees as large sickly coloured tumours or growths covered its body transforming into a Flood Combat Form. The Councillors were really starting to feel sick now. They were horrified at what they had just seen.

"Once they have infected a host, the Flood absorbs or gains all the knowledge that the victim has and is able to control the body. The Flood are a hive mind and because of their absorption of the hosts memories are able operate any technology they find. Due to that and their alarming reproduction rate should they gain control of a ship or even acquire FTL technology they could easily conquer the galaxy. "

"One good thing though is that without a Gravemind they are more disorganised and are unable to fly ships," said Alpha taking over for Cortana.

"What's a Gravemind," asked Valern.

A video again started to play showing a Human combat form. It was then swarmed by thousands of Infections Form, so much so that some in the chambers started to feel itchy. Eventually the swarm fused together, forming the large grotesque appearance of the Gravemind. Tevos let out a horrified gasp while the others took a step back.

"Once the Flood reaches sufficient biomass, they form a Gravemind as you have just seen. It is the Floods hive mind. It organizes and coordinates their actions making the Flood a more deadly fighting force," Alpha finished explaining.

"This is also what happens should the Flood conquer a planet," said Cortana as the Hologram changed to that of a beautiful Garden planet with bright green continent and sapphire blue oceans. Unknown to the Council this image was taken during the time of the Forerunners. The image of the planet then changed to a dramatically difference. The whole planet appeared in the same sickly colour as that of the Flood forms. The only way one could tell the land from the sea was that the continents were darker in colour while the oceans were extremely pale. The Citadel Council were extremely shocked by this. The Avatars of both Alpha and Cortana then disappeared.

"You can see why we hold this secret and why we told it to you in this manner. They are an extreme threat to the galaxy and if they should gain access to your Relay system, their distribution amongst the Galaxy will be great," said Xarew'Rade with all too clear seriousness.

"We have a protocol that dictates the eradication of the Flood by any means necessary. That includes the glassing and bombardment of a planet regardless of its habitual state. We recommend you do the same despite your laws against such actions," said Richards.

The Council remembered the footage they had watched of the Covenants ships glassing a planet in the Exodus cluster. Both Valern and Tevos came to the uneasy conclusion that the OSA had discovered the flood there.

"Garden worlds are a rare thing in the galaxy; you can't expect us to destroy them. It could take millions of years before one becomes inhabitable again," Sparatus argued.

"Did you not listen to what was said," said Thel via hologram. "A single Xenomorph can destroy the population of a planet. One single Flood spore can lead to the eradication of a species. Unless you are willing to take such measures do not be surprised if you start getting reports of them attack your worlds."

"Do not fear we understand and will take the appropriate measures that you have suggested to handle these threats," said Tevos with the five others agreeing with her.

"Good, that is all we need to discuss then. This session is adjourned. Councillors if you want to you can join the tour of High Charity. The three of us will join," said Remorse. The Citadel Council was happy to accept the offer. The Geth and Wrex were escorted out of the Chambers quickly by Demolition, Marton and the Spartans to avoid the Councillors opening their mouths again.

High Charity

For the next six hours the Councillors toured around High Charity eventually catching up with the main group. They were all amazed at what they saw and how in some ways High Charity was like the Citadel. The shell of High Charity's dome was similar to the Citadel Presidium ring in that it held the docks, some apartments and entertainment. The floor of the Dome was like that of the inside of the citadel arms in that it held a large city that covered the floor. It was amazing some of the sights they saw. They toured around the Human-Covenant war museum as well as the museum dedicated to the Pirate and Slaver wars.

They visited the area where the war beasts were housed on High Charity. They couldn't believe that most of the beasts they were seeing had actual been extinct millions of years ago and the OSA had managed to clone. Valern and Esheel as well as some of the Salarians amongst them were jealous at such a feat. The cameramen got plenty of recordings of the dinosaurs.

The Council were rather surprised at some of the sports that the OSA held. They had an arena for gladiator like fights. Swope racing and Pod racing which were extremely dangerous. And a strange game that they called "Griff Ball." Remorse, Richards and Xarew'Rade explained how no-one was ever killed in the arena's unless it was against beast to which they saids the combatants now the risks of those kind of fights. As for the races they said the same for them. As for "GriffBall" they explained how the suits interacted with the pitches, the suits would have a set number of health and when that was used up the suit would freeze up for a few seconds giving the appearance that the player had died. They also explained how the suits were specially built so the player didn't suffer serious injuries due to the GrifBall Gravity hammers.

As the tour continued on they eventually came to the Jedi Academy. The OSA councillors told them about the Temple project down on Coruscant . As they went through the Academy they eventually came to one of the training rooms for children where Rada Vadam was currently teaching.

Rada was teaching a class of twenty kids all of whom were under the age of nine. He was teaching them how to deflect fire with their lightsabers (or Energy-swords for the Sangheili youngsters) and to relay on the force to do it. He was happy with the progress they were making since they were now using helmets that completely covered their faces. He kept on giving them advise and words of encouragement.

"Reach out. Sense the force around you. Use your feelings." Many of the small Droids fired on the younglings but taking Rada's advice were able to deflect the shot.

"Good," Rada congratulated them. The then notice Remorse, Richards and Xarew'Rade at the door along with the Citadel visitors. He waved from them to come in.

"Younglings," he shouted getting some of their attention. He quickly grabbed a metal staff and started to hit the ground hard in order to get the rests attention. "Younglings," he said again, "We have visitors."

All the children now took their helmets of to see the crowd gathered by the door. The small Droid ascended up into the air as they took their helmets off.

"Hello, OSA Councillors and Citadel visitors," they said in unisons and in their sweet childish manner. Most of the Asari felt it was totally adorable. Remorse, Richards and Xarew'Rade said hello back with smiles on their faces.

"What can I do for you Councillors," Rada asked.

"Oh nothing Rada, the Council will be leaving soon so we thought we would show them the Academy. Seem these little rascals are ready to defend the peace," said Xarew'Rade.

"I'd say they are. As you can see they're now using the helmets. They are making great progress."

"Excuse me," said Tevos. "But the fire from those little robots won't it harm the children," she asked concerned for their wellbeing.

"Oh no, if they fail to deflect the fire and it hits them all they'll feel is a tickling sensation. It is quite harmless."

"Excuse me but how exactly are you able to deflect any sort of weapon fire. It is impossible to do," said Valern.

"That I am afraid I cannot tell you Councillor," said Rada placing the staff back.

"Rada's right, OSA secrets and all. You wouldn't expect us to ask about your biotic would you," said Richards. "Anyway let us continue the tour there is still one more thing to see. Bye kids."

"Bye," all the younglings replied in their cute manner.

Rada was away to go back to teaching the class when he sensed something. It was from Sparatus, something was off. He decided to have a quickly look at what it was. Slowly his face changed to one of happy to that of slight angry look. A young Sangheili maiden walked up to Rada and touched his hand.

"What's wrong Master Vadam," she said sweetly. Rada for a few second didn't reply. He then looked as if he had come back from somewhere. He looked down at the child then to the rest of the class.

"Children I am sorry, I must go. I will have one of the other masters take your class." All the kids were disappointed, one young boy asked why. Rada stopped at the door and looked at them.

"Demon business, don't be surprised if you see me and the others on the news during the week." Then he left running as fast as he could leaving the children slightly exited.

"John, its Rada is everyone at the Dawn," he said into his comm running franticly.

"No both me and Noble…" "You mean Noble and I," "whatever Cortana, are at the bar and Blade has went to spend some time with his wife."

"Get Blade and order everyone back to the Dawn. Tell the crew to get supplies as well."

"OK but what's going on?"

"No time to explain just now. I'll explain on the way to the Relay."

June 4, 2657/2157

Shanxi system

Covenant Super-carrier "Long Night of Solace"

Bridge

Isonia was saying her final farewell to the Citadel Council before they were to be teleported to the Athame which awaited them along with the rest of the Council fleet. A Covenant cruiser was joining the fleet, it carried the OSA ambassadors and the workers for the building of the embassy

"Well Councillors this is goodbye, I hope you had a pleasant time at High Charity," she said.

"Yes," said Tevos enthusiastically. "It was certainly something to see."

Rtas couldn't help but warn them about the Human ambassador Udina. "Be careful with Udina. He is a serious hassle and speaks before he thinks."

"We will Shipmaster, we told your Councillors the same for Irissa," said Valern.

"Come on we need to get going," said Sparatus impatiently.

Suddenly, "Shipmistress a slipspace portal is opening near the Relay," shouted the sensors operator.

"What no-one else has been permitted to come close the relay exempt us and the Arbiters fleet, contact that vessel now."

"Ship is coming through the portal now Shipmestress. Attempting to…Ah. Shipmistress it's the Forward Unto Dawn."

"The Dawn, what are they doing why out here?" asked Rtas.

"Does it matter," said Sparatus. "They are not permitted to use the relay so stop them."

"Sorry Councillors but the Dawn is the ship of the Demons, our version of your spectres. They are permitted to do whatever they want," said Isonia as they watched the Dawn enter the relay. The Councillors were unhappy with that but they didn't get the change to argue as they were teleported to the Athame. The OSA escorting fleet watched as the Citadel fleet left the system and entered the relay.

June 4, 2657/2157

Exodus Cluster

Unknown location

The Seeker of Truth

From the bridge of his flagship the Arbiter viewed the now burning world before him. Final after five days of glassing the planet Thel had ordered the fleet to stop. The fleet was now regrouping so that they could head back through the Shanxi relay. There was about to be a change of plans. A Sangheili officer walked up to the Arbiter holding a data pad.

"Arbiter your son has sent a message; I think you might want to see it," he said handing it to Thel who read it straight away. As he read he became extremely angry.

"Where is the Citadel fleet are they still in this cluster," he roared.

"No Arbiter, they went back to their space thirty minutes ago."

Thel roared again and threw the datapad and started storming of the bridge. "Contact High Charity, get them to assemble our fleets and bring the senate. We have an unexpected meeting with the Council."

Codex unknown what kind of codex do you think I should do for this chapter

AN/ So I hoped you enjoyed that, hoped the last thousand or so words didn't seem rushed. So what could it be that has the Vadams upset, well you'll find out next chapter, which I am really looking forward to doing. Here's the title for a clue "Prison Break." I'm letting you decided the chapter that will come after that. Either I can go for an idea that has popped into my head of a short chapter where Marton and Bet'Karh go with Wrex to the Krogan homeworld or I start my originally planed chapter which jumps forward a year and few months and begins the story arch for one of my idea mentioned on my profile.

Also I am thinking of doing a revised version of this fic. Now before you go into a panic no I will not stop doing this one, the revised one will have more detail, improvements or content if you will that I was unable to fit in because of time, so most of the chapters could end up becoming longer. It will not affect the writing of this one as I will add content to the chapters when an idea comes into my head. I just want your input on this or do you think I should just update this fic at time instead of creating Ruptured Universe V2 which is the same but with a wee bit more added on.