"Honestly, what are the chances of this working?" Shepard asked. He wasn't one for self-doubt but even he knew this was one hell of a Hail Mary attempt.
Garrus, Liara and Miranda all shared glances. Garrus just shrugged. "I could be honest, Shepard, but I might offend one of my fellow crew members."
Liara simply smirked. "Trust me, I've already had words with the councillor. She knows exactly who I am." Raising eyebrows in her direction, she simply added, "I let her know in so many words, Shepard. I basically called her an idiot and short-sighted. To call an asari the latter is incredibly insulting."
"And what did she say?"
"Nothing you'll particularly want to hear, not unless you want to be riled even further before the summit."
"And we don't really need you already pissed off before meeting the salarian dalatrass," Miranda added, with a little humour.
"What about Wrex?" Garrus wondered.
"He was intrigued as to why I contacted him. And he's not stupid, he knows the price of their cooperation."
"Commander, we're receiving hails from both the salarians and the krogan. Both are requesting permission to come aboard."
"Thanks, Joker," Shepard replied, looking up as usual. "Okay, it's show time. All of you with me as we greet them. Human, turian, asari. Best present a united front."
"No Javik?" Garrus wondered as we walked towards the cockpit.
"I have no doubt he'd offend both of them within ten seconds. Part of me would find it rather amusing."
"He's…. interesting," Liara stated.
"Interesting good or interesting bad?" Miranda asked.
"Interesting different. He's not what I expected at all," Liara admitted.
Shepard's three companions waited by the airlock as he walked to the cockpit. "EDI, have the salarians approach first. We'll get the dalatrass on board and settled before we invite Wrex. No doubt if we invited him first, the dalatrass will find something about that offensive and then she'll piss off before this even begins."
"I'll relay the request at once, Shepard."
Walking back to the others, he suggested further that Garrus escort the dalatrass, as Victus was already waiting for us there, while Miranda and Liara could escort Wrex, as he knew both of them already. Already frustrated, Shepard tapped his foot as they waited for the salarian ship to dock with ours. Shepard didn't feel nerves, He was annoyed, and that annoyance was only bound to increase.
"What are our chances this works?" Miranda asked.
"I could probably tell you within thirty seconds of the dalatrass arriving."
Yes, very annoyed. Still, better only annoyed rather than rather angry and pissed off at everything. The asari had well and truly pissed him off, and Liara had been walking on eggshells around Shepard at times, though he had assured her time and again it certainly wasn't her fault. As for the salarians, Shepard would confess that he'd never particularly understood them anyway, but he knew they feared the krogan more than anyone. With each day that passed, both Earth and Palaven continued to burn. And things like this summit simply delayed matters, particularly as he already knew the salarians would not prove cooperative.
After a few minutes, the ship finally docked and the airlock opened, the salarian dalatrass appearing alone. He didn't salute but performed a respectful half bow. Getting off on the right foot might help matters, even if only a little bit. "Dalatrass Linron, welcome to the Normandy."
She looked him up and down first before doing the same with his colleagues in silence. Shepard thought within the first few seconds that she was just going to turn around and leave, but guessed having three Council races there worked in their favour. "Thank you, Commander Shepard," she finally replied. Not overly friendly but at least respectful. For now, it was better than nothing.
Gesturing to Garrus, he asked the turian to escort her to the meeting room, where she could meet Primarch Victus and enjoy a refreshment before their next guest arrived. That seemed to satisfy her at least. Once she'd disappeared, Liara asked, "So?"
"Well, she's here but that doesn't mean a lot right now. We'll see how things go once Wrex is on board."
"On body language alone, and I'm no expert in reading salarians, she doesn't want to be here, Shepard," Miranda added.
"Yeah, surprisingly nervous, though she did her best to hide it."
"She's going to take a lot of convincing," Liara suggested, "And that's if she agrees at all."
"Part of me thinks we don't need their agreement. We just do what is required. Once the Reapers are at their front door, they'll come begging for help."
"You're including the asari in that, aren't you?" Liara asked, and he could hear the tinge of sadness in her tone.
"Unfortunately, yes, Liara."
"Do not apologise, Shepard, as I know you already want to. Tevos made that decision, not you. Anything that happens is on her head."
The krogan ship docked a few minutes later, the giant figure of Urdnot Wrex lumbering through the airlock. Shepard couldn't help the grin as they greeted each other in the usual fashion, hand on forearm. "Good to see you, old friend."
"You too, Shepard." Wrex then looked to his side. "Miranda Lawson is here? In that uniform?"
Shepard chuckled at his tone. "Call this my redemption arc, Wrex," Miranda retorted with humour.
That made the krogan rumble with laughter. "My, my, how things change. Last I heard, you were under lock and key on Earth, Shepard. Guess the Reapers changed things."
"That they did, which is why you're here right now. You've heard about Earth and no doubt Palaven. Has Tuchanka been hit yet?"
"We've had reports of these Reaper bastards just arriving. Small incursions only. Must be scouting us out to start with. Certainly nothing on the scale we've heard hitting Earth and Palaven. Other than that, progress is slow but still being made."
"Shit, sorry to hear about that."
"No-one cares about us, Shepard. Well, except you, it seems."
"It's why I'm here now. You ready for this?" The krogan laughed, a low, rumbling noise. If Shepard didn't know him any better, it was rather sinister. "Wrex, you will be on your best behaviour?" he asked, a low warning tone the krogan would have recognised
"Of course, Shepard. Here in peace and all that rubbish. But the salarians had better play ball. What about this turian though?"
"He's the one who suggested this idea. He simply wants help. He wants warriors. He wants the krogan."
"And you?"
"I wouldn't be here if I didn't believe in the idea."
He just clapped Shepard on the shoulder. If he hadn't been ready for it, Shepard probably would have ended up on the ground. Krogan were strong. "Ah, and I see you have old friends," his eyes falling on Liara this time, "Couldn't resist joining up with him again, eh?"
"He's going to need my help," Liara stated, and Shepard had a feeling Wrex already knew exactly who she was.
Wrex looked between the pair of them before asking, "Sharing his bed yet?"
That just made Shepard crack up in laughter, as he wasn't surprised that Wrex knew all about his personal situation, and he was aware of the affection both women did have for Shepard, though would have known the man was still married, just apart for now. But Wrex did like the occasional joke at his expense. Shepard simply asked the pair to escort his friend to the meeting room. Once they had disappeared too, he turned back towards the cockpit. "What do you think, guys? Kidnap them both until they agree?"
"I have a feeling Wrex would just as likely kill the dalatrass," EDI stated, and Shepard couldn't help agree.
"Keep an ear out for any communications. Joker, just keep the ship where we are for now."
"Aye-aye."
Walking back through the CIC, the crew had now relaxed, Traynor actually giving him a sympathetic look as he walked by. Shepard stopped and asked why. "Body language, sir. The dalatrass didn't look comfortable at all."
"Yeah, I know."
"Good luck, sir. You're going to need it."
What he found in the conference room wasn't particularly surprising. On one side of the table stood the dalatrass, arms folded but clearly on the defensive. To her left was Victus, already in the physical role of peacemaker between the two sides, Garrus alongside him, conversing quietly. On the opposite side to the dalatrass was Wrex, who if he didn't know any better, stared at the dalatrass with more contempt and unbridled hatred than he'd ever seen in a look before. Shepard didn't particularly blame him considering their shared history.
Shepard approached the table, not suggesting anyone take the available chairs as it seemed unlikely anyone would actually sit down. Wrex just loomed over the table, even larger than Shepard and the turians, dwarfing the salarian. Definitely trying to intimidate.
"You all have my thanks for joining this summit," he started, "As I'm sure you're aware, the Reapers have begun their invasion of the galaxy. As we stand here, my homeworld, Earth, is currently fighting off a large bulk of the Reaper forces. The list of casualties is already catastrophic. Numerous cities have already been, or are currently being flattened. Quite frankly, we need help. And we need it now.
The homeworld of Primarch Victus is also engaging Reaper forces, who are currently invading Palaven. While the numbers are less than those invading Earth, their force is no less destructive. Without outside help, both Earth and Palaven, and the human and turian races in total, will fall. That is why we are here today.
None of us will win the war against the Reapers alone. We must present a united front to have any chance of success. That is what we are here to discuss. Primarch Victus has a suggestion. To take pressure off the turian navy, he is requesting the assistance of the krogan in helping beat back the Reapers, relieving enough pressure so that the fleets can disengage and fall back, allowing them to unite with our navies in preparation for the armada we are building. There is no point in fighting the Reapers with piece-meal initiatives. They will swat them away like a fly. We need to concentrate our forces and then strike hard."
He stopped talking, looking across the table at his companions, waiting for someone to say something. He didn't think Liara or Miranda would say anything but hoped Victus would add something. "Out of the question," Linron finally stated.
"What is?" Shepard asked, keeping his tone neutral.
She pointed at Wrex. "We are not going to unleash these krogan across the galaxy again. We have long memories. We remember what happened last time we let them loose."
"Speak wisely, dalatrass, before you find yourself crumpled in the corner," Wrex growled.
"Wrex," he stated quietly, "You gave your word."
"I've seen what these Reapers can do already, Shepard. Does this salarian really believe they are capable of fighting them off? The turians are already being beaten back, but at least I know those bastards can fight. Then again, my homeworld will eventually be invaded. I certainly don't care about salarians. They can all burn, as far as I'm concerned. As for the turians, I find myself not caring either way. And if we are to help, there will be a price."
"We knew there would be, Urdnot Wrex," Victus stated, "But I also know we cannot win this alone. Name your price and we'll see if we can negotiate."
"What? You're not seriously contemplating negotiating with the krogan?" Linron exclaimed.
"We have little choice, dalatrass. If we don't have help from the krogan, then we will die. So will humanity. And so will you eventually." Victus looked back at Wrex. "What do you have in mind?"
Wrex leaned forward, eyes only on Linron. "One simple thing. A cure for the genophage."
Linron exploded, just as Shepard knew she would, because he knew that was exactly what Wrex would want as a price for joining in the fight. "Absolutely not! Out of the question! The genophage is not negotiable."
"Everything is negotiable, dalatrass," Victus stated, "We are at war."
Shepard cleared his throat, gaining their attention before they descended into another argument. "I am aware of the history and enmity between your peoples. The uplifting. The war against the rachni. The rebellions. The genophage. Fault lies on all sides." He held up a hand as all three looked ready to argue, before slamming his fist on the table. "On. All. Sides," he growled, making sure his eyes met those of Wrex, Victus and Linron separately. Wrex and Victus returned respectful nods. As for Linron…
"What do you really know, human?" Linron said scathingly. Considering it was his ship, to be spoken to in such a manner, Shepard had to take a couple of seconds before he erupted and the meeting descended into chaos.
"I know enough, dalatrass. I know enough to blame you for uplifting a people clearly not ready for it. For using them as cannon fodder in a war you wouldn't have won otherwise. I can blame the krogan for waging war against the galaxy in 'thanks' for their assistance. And I can blame the turians for being the one to actually unleash the genophage. Am I wrong in any of these assessments?" Shepard looked across the table, almost daring for any of them to disagree. Mouths twitched. Bodies assumed a defensive posture. But no-one said a word. "There is one undeniable fact. The help of the krogan could help turn the tide of the war. On Palaven to begin with, and who knows where else across the galaxy."
"War is the only thing the krogan are good at. It's why we uplifted them in the first place," Linron said, "And you're about to make the same mistake if you allow them to once again spread across the galaxy."
"Don't the krogan deserve a chance to prove themselves worthy?" he retorted, "And you just said it. 'War is the only thing the krogan are good at.' Sounds like the krogan will be perfect allies against the Reapers."
"It is an act borne of desperation. Nothing more. We've learned from our mistakes. I would encourage you not to make the same."
"Primarch Victus, your opinion?" Shepard asked instead, already realising the salarian probably wouldn't budge.
"I will be honest, Commander. We rarely give the genophage a thought. It's gone on for as long as we can remember that it's just considered a matter of fact."
"One thousand, four hundred and seventy-six years, Primarch," Wrex stated. If Shepard didn't know any better, there were at least three emotions were in the tone. Anger, which was completely understandable, allied to a touch of sadness and no end of bitterness. Shepard met his eyes again. All three emotions burned brightly. This time, it was his turn to nod. He couldn't even begin to comprehend…
"That's right, and most of those have been peaceful!" Linron shouted.
"Has the galaxy really been that peaceful? Council space, maybe, but the rest of the galaxy is something else entirely," Shepard stated.
"Council space is all that matters. And as long as these brutes are kept under control, that is all that matters too," Linron added.
Victus groaned before banging the table with a fist. "Enough! Your constant antagonising of the krogan will not help out situation, dalatrass. While I understand your argument, in the end any discussion about a cure for the genophage is irrelevant. It will take years to formulate one."
"Incorrect, Primarch, and my friend here would know why," Wrex stated.
"I think I know what you're referring to, Wrex, but what's happened since?" he asked, "Been out of the loop for six months and more."
"I have an informant working within STG on Sur'Kesh. What none of us were aware of is that there were krogan females who survived the experiments being carried out by Maelon. And it was likely those females were resistant to the genophage. What the dalatrass has failed to inform anyone is that these females were kidnapped from Tuchanka and are currently being held, like prisoners, on Sur'kesh."
"What? That is utter nonsense."
"Oh really, dalatrass?" Wrex stated with a hint of sarcasm before looking at Shepard. "If I may play a video sent to me within the last solar day, Shepard."
"By all means. EDI, can you assist Wrex, please?"
Even Shepard would admit to being shocked at the video, and he'd seen plenty over the years that made his blood boil. He wasn't sure if this was in violation of any agreement, but it was evidence, clear as day, that krogan were apparently being kept against their will. A reminder of what he'd seen on Tuchanka, though he struggled to remember the name of the salarian we'd dealt with… Ah, Maelon. Wonder if we shouldn't have just shot him in the ned? Wrex had just mentioned him. Shepard kept an eye on Wrex, who appeared to be growing more incensed with each passing second the video played. Wrex locked eyes with him again once the video stopped.
"They are my people, Shepard. And they could be the answer. And I will not stand by and let her," pointing at the dalatrass, "Get away with it any longer. It ends now."
"Did you know about this, dalatrass?" Shepard asked, barely able to keep his voice neutral. He knew what some salarians were capable of, but what they'd just seen? Even Victus was disgusted.
She dismissed them all with a wave of her hand. "How will curing the genophage help my people?"
"You really think you can win against the Reapers alone?" he asked, not wanting a reply, "Because I will say right now, good luck and goodbye, because you don't stand a chance. You need us. You need the turians. And you will need the krogan."
"And I can assure you that the turians will not come to your aid when the time comes if you continue to stall us," Victus added.
The dalatrass looked between the three of them, knowing now she had been well and truly boxed into a corner. She would either go down swinging or throw in the towel. Shepard remained silent, continuing to keep an eye on Wrex, who looked ready to simply charge in and batter her to death. Thankfully the krogan met his eyes again and a cooler head prevailed for the moment, taking a deep breath as tempers momentarily cooled.
"Primarch?" Shepard finally asked after what felt like hours of silence.
"The evidence is irrefutable, Captain. I believe we should head to Sur'Kesh at once."
"You will not set foot on Sur'Kesh!"
Shepard cleared his throat and couldn't contain the smirk as he played my trump card. "In my position as a Council Spectre, it is within my rights to gain access to the STG base where they are being held and I can collect these krogan females as soon as possible."
"You wouldn't dare?"
"Try me. My patience is already thin. I would suggest you don't make it snap." He heard a throaty rumble of laughter from Wrex, knowing he was chuckling at his tone. He knew the salarian was over a barrel. Now it was time to turn the screw. "My suggestion, dalatrass, would be for your full co-operation in regards to this matter. In the end, it may end up being the one thing that will save your people."
The salarian simply snorted with derision but didn't respond. "Are we going, Shepard?" Wrex asked.
"I think we have enough to make our next move."
Shepard gestured for Victus and Wrex to head towards the war room to make plans before he gave the salarian one last glance. She was defeated though still defiant. "I won't forget this, Commander Shepard," she stated with disdain, "A bully has few friends when he needs them most."
Shepard continued to glare at her for a few more seconds before he finally snapped, taking a couple of steps forward, ensuring he looked intimidating as he strode forward, eyes burning into the dalatrass. She took a step or two back as he closed the distance between them, making her back up against the glass window. Shepard was tall, with both height and reach over her, so he jabbed a finger into her chest as he loomed over. "I would be very, very careful, dalatrass," he growled, "There is only one person here without any allies and friends. And I'm currently looking right at her. If you want to survive this thing, I would suggest, if not demand, your complete co-operation going forward. Otherwise I will watch from a distance while your world burns."
Finished with getting what he wanted off my chest, knowing he'd likely just made an enemy, Shepard turned and walked towards the war room, not glancing back as the doors closed.
The convoy stretched back as far as the eye could see, and he knew it stretched back even further than that. He thought the dust cloud being kicked up should have alerted any enemy to their presence. But, so far, they had been lucky in remaining undetected. Remaining off major routes certainly helped. Not using all the latest technology helped as well, though they maintained communication links with groups across the globe.
It had been another hard day's march for the thousands upon thousands of men and women that made up what was effectively now his own private army. He was one of the few senior officers remaining in the country. Once he had watched the Normandy depart, he had got to work. First there had been simply surviving Vancouver, dragging the forces that remained and fighting what he called a tactical withdrawal. He knew they couldn't win. He knew they would have to wait, and simply try not to die, while Shepard and Hackett worked miracles above.
A sign ahead told them the latest town they would be entering, where they would like spend at least a night or two. He turned to the man beside him in the Jeep. Old fashioned, powered by what they had once called black gold. The black stuff. Oil. Fossil fuel.
Petrol.
"Ever heard of Kindersley, Lieutenant?"
"No, sir."
"We'll stop here and debrief." He looked at his watch. "It's fifteen-hundred now. Gather the officers and we'll discuss the situation at sixteen-thirty."
"Don't see too many people ahead."
"Probably one of two options. Option one. The population has either dispersed and headed for safety. Option two. The population is indoors and won't come out for anything."
"At least the town looks untouched by the Reapers."
"That's some comfort at least. We'll discuss that situation once we're settled. I doubt there's enough rooms to go around for all of us. Give the order for them to prepare camp once we've stopped."
"Yes, sir."
Most men and women in uniform were marching. There was transport, but not enough for the numbers. One of the main reasons is that they were trying not to use anything with mass effect technology. And definitely nothing that required eezo. Those with a modicum of intelligence thought that is one way the Reapers may try and track them. So they had dug out what was now considered ancient technology for their retreat. The internal combustion engine that required petroleum to run.
Unknown to most, but in particular the Reapers, the Alliance and humanity had been preparing for invasion since first encountering an alien race. While the turians had not eventually invaded, humanity would always be prepared going forward. So while the Alliance spent years building ships of war for space exploration, back on Earth, governments constructed giant bunkers where all manner of land-based vehicles were stored in preparation for any sort of invasion. Tanks. Artillery pieces. Assault guns. Half-tracks. Thousands of armoured personnel carriers. Jeeps. Some would be built utilising the latest technology. But humanity had relied on oil for nearly two to three hundred years. It was a known quantity and reliable. And since the civilian population now used mass effect technology in their daily lives, oil production, while dropping, continued at a slower and cleaner rate, the oil being stored in the event of a worst case scenario.
Such as Earth being invaded by an incredibly hostile race known as the Reapers.
Even communication was rudimentary half of the time. They used quantum entanglement where possible, though that was mostly to communicate with forces throughout the galaxy. Much of the time, armies across the globe communicated through morse code. The hope was that the technology was so ancient, the Reapers would simply ignore it. For the time being, at least, it seemed to work.
A check around town proved it had been evacuated. Where they had gone, no-one knew. There was no indication of where the population had fled. With an entire town of now empty dwellings, orders were given that the men and women could enjoy at least one or two nights indoors. Anderson gathered his small cadre of officers and headed towards an abandoned diner where they could at least sit and discuss events in peace. He spread a paper map of Canada across the table as the men and women gathered around, waiting for him to start.
"Are you all well?" A sea of nodding heads. "Very good. Okay, here's the situation." He started pointing the map. "As I'm sure most of you aware, Vancouver was one of the first cities hit. Not surprise, it being one of the major HQs of the Alliance. Latest reports indicate the Reapers have processed the majority of the population and have begun their systematic destruction of the city itself. As far as we know, the Reapers have hit both Edmonton and Calgary, which we've just skirted right between them and were thankfully left alone. But I don't think our luck will hold out for much longer. With the number of people we have with us, the Reapers will eventually show interest in our column. Have sentries been posted?"
"They have, sir."
"Have any of you heard news from around the globe?"
"Well, locally, at least a dozen cities have been hit heavily. Washington DC, New York, Boston, Chicago, San Fran and Los Angeles were all smashed in the first wave."
"I've heard gossip about Europe. Apparently London, Rome, Paris and Berlin were hit hardest during the first wave. Reports I've been reading state Rome was completely destroyed. Four thousand years of history obliterated in hours."
"Moscow and St. Petersburg too, sir. Apparently the Russians tried their usual suicidal counter-attacking tactics. Not sure how that worked out for them."
"The eastern seaboard of China took the full brunt of a Reaper attack. The only thing helping them is sheer weight of numbers though."
"So we know we're not the only people who have been hit hard. Let's have a run-down of what we have exactly. How many tanks do we have at our disposal?"
"At least one hundred, sir. But we've received word that two regiments of men, tanks and APCs are heading north from Great Falls. They are hoping to eventually link up with us."
"The road we are currently following will take us towards Saskatoon. Anyone know the area well?" Everyone shook their head. "Okay, we're going to need a scouting party to see if Reaper forces are lying in wait for us."
"Will we engage them in battle, sir?"
"Only if they force our hand. If we can give them a bloody nose, then we will engage their forces. Otherwise, we will have to skirt around and hopefully avoid detection."
"What is the end game of this, sir? When do we fight?"
It was a question he had been asked time and again. He knew why the men and women around the table wanted to fight. But fighting now would be an entirely losing proposition, a sacrifice of lives in a battle they simply couldn't win. He removed his cap and sat down, folding up the map for the time being.
"We will fight. But now is not the time. We don't have the manpower. We don't have the strength. You've seen what the Reapers are capable of. How powerful they are. How advanced they are. Their numbers are staggering. And they would wipe us out with ease. Do not get me wrong. If we can hit them, hit them hard and get a win, then I will throw everything at our disposal at them. We are in retreat but we are not in despair. There is always hope. That is what will sustain us going forward."
"You speak of Shepard, sir?"
"I speak of Shepard, soldier. Right now he is up there gathering allies, gathering forces, an entire armada of ships, of all the species of the galaxy to come and save Earth. Save his home and yours. But it will take time. To gather a force of the size required to take on and eventually defeat the Reapers will always take time."
"How long will that take?"
"I honestly don't know. But it will take time. So that is why we continue to do what we are doing. The end game for this expedition is to get to the east coast. From there, we will take ships across to Europe, just like the Atlantic crossings back during the Second World War, though hopefully this time without having to worry about submarines. We have been receiving word of something interesting happening in Europe. I'm not exactly sure what. No-one is sure what. But that is a focal point of the Reapers at the moment. Europe may be where the battle will take place."
"One giant climatic battle, sir?"
He nodded. "We cannot fight a war of attrition. Not against the Reapers. We have to build up everything we have. Every man. Every gun. Every tank. Every ship. Then we throw them at the Reapers. We fight with hope. That is what will lead to victory."
"What are our chances, sir?"
He knew a slight smile appeared. "If Shepard lives, and he leads the fight to take back Earth, then we have every chance of victory. If you don't know him personally, you will at least know of him. You have heard the stories, read the news, listened to whispers. He's almost a myth at times. But much of what you hear is true."
"But he's only one man, sir?"
"Sometimes it takes only one man to guarantee victory, soldier. And this man will lead, he will fight, and if he had to, he will die to ensure our victory. All he will want from us is support. Stay alive, fight at his side and we will prevail. In the end, Shepard will put himself through hell to save us from it."
"You really believe in him, sir?"
"My belief in the man has never faltered for a minute. And he needs all of us to believe. Not just in him but in final victory. He's done the impossible twice, almost by himself. Now we need to do the impossible a third time. But this time we all do it together."
"Come on, doc, I'm fine. It's doing my head in lying around all day."
"You suffered a significant head injury, Major, and you still exhibit all the signs of a major concussion. It is for your benefit, after all."
"But I should be out there in the fight!"
"That's precisely the last place you should be. Another head injury and you could end up dead, Major." He didn't reply as the thought of being dead ended the argument. "Glad you understand the seriousness of the situation."
"How long do I need to wait then?"
"We'll continue to test you every forty-eight hours. You are progressing well but you need your rest. Once we're certain you are completely recovered, we'll discharge you straight away."
He sighed, running a hand down his face. "Okay. Fair enough."
"I'm glad you see sense, Major. Now, is there anything else you need?"
"The vidscreen is enough to keep me entertained for now, I guess. I would watch the news, but I don't want to make myself any more depressed than I already am."
The doctor left him and piece and he returned his attention to the vidscreen. He had no idea what he was actually watching, the television programs of the galaxy in many ways differing to those on Earth, while many more were so similar it was scary. What he had begun to understand in the many days he'd been stuck in bed is that every species appeared to love the hopelessly romantic and sentimental daytime soap opera. In other words, crap. He keyed his omni-tool, hoping to find at least something interesting. He didn't find anything. Fed up, he switched off the vidscreen and was about to pick up a datapad to read when there was a knock at the door.
"I'm not intruding, am I?"
He looked up to see a drell standing in the doorway. He didn't know any drell personally, though he had seen this one around the hospital, or at least walking by his door on a regular basis. But he was intrigued as to what this drell wanted.
"Not at all, though I must ask who you are?"
"I apologise. Let me introduce myself. My name is Tannor Nuara."
He thought for a moment, searching his memory. He thought the name sounded familiar, but if it was, he couldn't remember why. Again, he didn't know any drell. Maybe it's the head injury? But this one seemed friendly enough, and considering he was fairly isolated and, to be honest, quite lonely, having a decent chat may help his frame of mind.
"Please, come in and take a seat. I could do with the company."
The drell bowed politely before approaching the side of his bed, grabbing a chair and taking a seat. "You were injured badly?"
"One of the first of many casualties in this war. Thankfully, it's just a concussion. The doctors think it's pretty bad. I feel fine, but I guess I can agree that I don't want any permanent damage."
"You are lucky to have survived battle with the Reapers."
"It wasn't the Reapers who put me in hospital."
"Ah, then Cerberus?"
He looked at the drell. Whoever he was, he appeared to be very well informed. This could prove to be a rather interesting chat. "Yes. I've had plenty of run-ins with them before. This is the first time I've been defeated. What brings you to the hospital?"
"I suffer from something called Kepral's Syndrome. It is a sickness many drell suffer."
"How long have you suffered from it?"
"A few years now, though it is only recently that the effects have become physically debilitating. It is why I am here now."
"Is there a cure?"
"No. Only death awaits."
He was taken aback by the honest response. "I'm sorry to hear."
"Thank you, but my mind, heart and soul have been prepared for many months now. I have been expecting death since…"
The drell trailed off, causing him to look at the drell with a curious eye. "Since?" he finally asked when it was clear that the drell wasn't going to continue.
The drell locked eyes on him. "Before I continue, I must ask as you are part of the Alliance, and I believe you may know him. Do you know Commander Shepard?"
He paused a moment before figuring there couldn't be too much harm in admitting the truth. "Yes. He used to be my CO. Why do you ask?"
"We have met once before. Many months ago, when we visited Feros."
Finally, it pinged. That's why he seems familiar! "I'm sorry, I don't remember your name but you worked with Shepard against the Collectors, right?"
"My name is Tannor…" The drell looked at him and could obviously read his face. "I apologise. I have been using the assumed name for so long, it is simply second nature to use it."
"Are you in danger?"
"No, I don't believe so. But the life I have lived results in taking precautions." The drell cleared his throat before he held out his right hand. "My name is Thane Krios."
He leaned over and shook the proffered hand. "Kaidan Alenko."
"Pleasure to meet you again, Major Alenko."
"Please, Kaidan is fine. You worked with Shepard against the Collectors?" Thane nodded. "So, returning to what we were talking about, did you expect death during that mission?"
"A noble death. Shepard was aware as we spoke of it, though I knew from first meeting him that he would not accept my death as easily."
"Sounds just like the Shepard I remember."
"I appreciate his efforts. It means I can spend my last days with my son."
"You cannot join the war?"
The drell shook his head. "I would be of little use to any fighting force. The mind is still strong. The body has continued to weaken. If the body was willing, I would volunteer tomorrow."
"I understand. I'm fed up lying here already."
"You must let your body heal first, Kaidan. Mind, body and soul must be in harmony."
"Hmm, good point."
The two continued to chat, mostly about their work with Shepard on previous missions and the approaching war with the Reapers. That was until they were interrupted by one of the many nurses who helped him during the day. However, this was not for a further check-up. There was big news; the Councillor was on his way up.
"Whatever for?" he asked.
"We don't know. But his assistant called a couple of minutes ago to say he was on his way up right now. He'll be here in little more than a couple of minutes."
"I will make myself scarce," Thane stated, standing up and bowing slightly once again, "A pleasure, Kaidan. I hope we can speak again."
"You too, Th… Tannor," he replied, figuring he should use the assumed name in front of company, "I'll probably be here for a while, so any time you wish to pop in for a chat, please do."
"I will do so. Until later."
No more than thirty seconds after Thane had departed, Councillor Udina strode into his room. He could count on one hand how often he had either met or spoken with the Councillor, having had little to do with the man while Anderson had been the human Councillor. While he did not care one way or the other about Udina, he remembered Shepard had an almost intense hatred for the man. He had to prevent himself laughing as he remembered the myriad of names he had for the Councillor, none of them flattering.
"Major Alenko."
"Councillor."
"I hear you are recovering well from your injuries. Is that correct?"
"Mostly. I would prefer to recover faster so I can get back out there, but I've had to learn a little patience."
"I know they're doing as much as they can, but since you have some time free, I'm here as I have a proposition for you."
"Oh…" He paused a beat, his mind racing at the possibilities. "Okay, I'll bite. What would that be?"
"With events in the galaxy, the Council are looking to expand their rank of Spectres. Being one of our most decorated soldiers, I believe you would be a perfect candidate and, if you accept, would put your name forward to be a Council Spectre. Does that interest you, Major?"
"Well… I mean… It sounds…"
"I know it's a lot to think about, Major. And I'm not expecting a decision right now. But both the Council and the Alliance would like to see more Spectres representing humanity."
"Can I think about it, Councillor?"
"Of course, Major. But don't take too long. I've spoken to your doctor and he believes you will be returning to active duty soon. Once you're released, we will hold an induction ceremony into the Spectres and from there you will be given your own ship and crew."
"Really?"
"Of course. We remember how well it worked with Shepard. We believe you can do the same, if not better job."
Well, that's a bit unfair on Shepard. "Thank you, Councillor. I'll let you know my decision as soon as possible."
"As soon as possible, Major. Time is of the essence."
"You should just let me kill him, boss."
"No, Leng. Major Alenko is to be left alive, for the moment at least. He will be a necessary pawn for the plan to come. If Udina does his job properly, then he will be a perfectly willing pawn in the game. Once his job is done, then you can terminate him if he continues to interfere in our plans."
"And what about Shepard?"
"If he interferes, you have permission to take him down."
"I look forward to it, boss."
"You continue to underestimate him, Leng. Do not get cocky. I thought he could be controlled. I learned he could not to my own cost."
"Understood, boss. But Shepard is a broken, battered old soldier, worn down by years of fighting and too concerned with keeping his team alive. He can't make the tough decisions. While that may deserve some respect, he will die by my sword. He and anyone else who chooses to support him."
"As long as you understand that the plan is the most important thing."
"I understand, boss."
"Very good. Is Udina on his way?"
"He is. I believe he's just finished meeting with Major Alenko."
"Find out what has been said. Once your meeting is done, contact me again."
With that, the hologram of the Illusive Man disappeared. Kai Leng walked to the window of the small apartment he was currently residing in. Staking out the Citadel. The cesspool of galactic races below. He couldn't wait for the Illusive Man to activate the plan and finally clear the station of the refuse. The Council had proven inadequate and ineffective as a ruling body. It was a time for change with the Reapers having arrived. And he would be at the Illusive Man's side as he brought forth a new era. Udina believed he would be the new leader of a human dominated Council. He was so concerned about saving Earth that he could not see the wood for the trees.
Turning away from the window, he looked across the sparse apartment. He travelled light. A small workstation on the kitchen counter. A duffel bag with a change of clothes. His weapons sitting idle next to his bag. A camp bed with a folded sleeping bag. In the kitchen, a small fridge to at least keep some food. He didn't want to leave the apartment too often. He was a patient man. He would wait in hiding until he received the green light. Thousands of men were currently preparing at base, readying themselves for the plan to come to fruition.
A knock at the door. He walked across and grabbed a pistol, checking it was loaded before walking to the door. He looked through the peep-hole to see a male, hat pulled down tight over his head, crouched down into his coat. He knew who the man was immediately, opening the door and beckoning him forward with his pistol.
"Is that really necessary?"
"Can't be too sure of who would come knocking at my door. You come alone?"
"Of course."
"Hands against the walls, spread your legs."
"What?"
"You heard me." With a pistol in hand, the councillor had no choice but to follow the order, leaning forward against the wall as requested while he patted him down. The councillor certainly wouldn't be armed but there was always a chance he'd do something stupid, such as recording their conversation. Luckily for him, he was clean. Happy enough, he gestured towards the middle of the room. "Take a seat."
"Where?"
"On the floor. Or stand if you want."
The councillor walked to the kitchen counter, leaning against it, arms folded. Clearly unhappy. And very uncomfortable. Leng didn't mind. He wanted him uncomfortable. He wanted him to be afraid. The councillor was taking one hell of a personal risk by mixing with the organisation.
"So how did it go?"
"Better than I thought. But not as well as I hoped."
"Did he accept?"
"He's thinking about it."
"What does your gut say?"
"I think he'll eventually accept it. My argument was convincing enough."
"Do the Council suspect?"
"They suspect nothing. They are blind to everything except their own personal concerns. Palaven is burning. The salarians are worried about the krogan. And Tevos thinks the asari will eventually save the day."
"Do not get over-confident, Councillor. That could eventually prove your undoing."
"I know what I'm doing. But this must be done to guarantee our very survival. The Council have forced my hand. Earth must be saved. At any cost…"
"You are lucky my boss agrees. He is happy with progress so far. Do not disappoint him."
"Of course." The councillor paused. "Has my new position been discussed?"
"You will get everything you wished for, Councillor. Humanity will dominate once the plan has been completed."
"And what about Shepard? That man has been a constant thorn in my side since first becoming a Spectre. Saving the idiot councillors? Choosing Anderson over me? Treating me with utter disdain? Unforgivable!"
"Shepard will be handled, Councillor. On that, you have my word."
"I don't want your word. I want him dead."
"Do not make demands, Councillor. You may believe you wield ultimate power, but just remember who holds the strings. And who will be the scissors if you fail to perform."
He noticed the councillor turn a whiter shade. "Of course. I apologise. I merely mean…"
"I know what you mean. And the issue has been discussed. As I said, Shepard will be handled. As will his colleagues. They will be a thorn no more once the plan has come to fruition." He glanced at his workstation. "Right, I should make my report. As I said, the Illusive Man is pleased with progress so far. But Alenko must be convinced. Once you have him as your personal puppet, and other pawns are in place, the green light will be given. Otherwise, you know what to do."
The councillor nodded. "I do."
He walked to the door, gesturing for the councillor to follow. "Then I suggest we both get back to work. And I also suggest that we don't met again before the green light." He opened the door, standing to the side as the councillor walked out. "Agreed?"
The councillor turned to face him. "Agreed."
"Very good. Goodbye, Councillor. Next time we meet; you may just be considered the most powerful person in the galaxy."
He saw the councillors eyes light up, a slight smirk appeared before he bowed ever so slightly and disappeared from view. He simply closed the door, locked it and walked towards the window, looking out over the cesspool that was the Citadel once again.
