Hello again, everyone, and welcome back to my Halo - MechWarrior/BattleTech - Mass Effect multicrossover. My apologies for updating a little later than normal. The router that I'm using is having a timing error, so internet is a little wonky right now. Fortunately, my dad will be on it stat, so that should be a thing of the past soon. Either way, I want to say thank you for the support you've shown my crossover, and I hope to hear your feedback soon. As always, leave a review and enjoy!

This chapter was inspired by The Incredible Muffin's Cycles Upon Cycles. If you haven't read that crossover, I thoroughly recommend you do. It is an excellent work of art. This chapter will also show a softer side of one of my favorite characters of Mass Effect.

Disclaimer: I do not own the Halo, MechWarrior/BattleTech or Mass Effect franchises. They are the respective properties and trademarks of Microsoft Game Studios, 343 industries, Bungie, Electronic Arts, BioWare, FASA Corporation, FASA Interactive, Catalyst Game Labs and Piranha Games Inc. Any material original to the franchises belongs to it's respective developers and publishers. Any material not original to the franchises is of my own invention. I do not own any music listed in each chapter. Any music listed belongs to it's original composers and/or artists.


BattleTech OST - 'Mech Bay Cantata

Krogan Demilitarized Zone

Tuchanka

July 3rd, 3075

Tuchanka, Wrex thought as the DropShip he was on smoothly flew towards the planet. It had been a long time since he had left the planet for the stars after his father's betrayal, taking up a job as a mercenary for anyone that was willing to spend a fortune for a job. His life had carried on like that until the Star League made First Contact, after which he'd accepted his long duration contract with the Star League Intelligence Command, who were responsible for not only making him a better warrior, but a 'MechWarrior at that as well.

Now he was returning home to Tuchanka, after centuries of self-imposed exile as a gun for hire. Looking at the holographic image of Tuchanka, he could tell that not much had changed, if it had changed at all that is. When the Krogan species was young still, Tuchanka was a veritable paradise in many ways, with beautiful flora, incredibly vibrant and diverse fauna, as well as oceans that were a pearlescent blue color fit for a masterful painting. Tuchanka was a deadly planet, however, as the Krogan had evolved to survive on a planet where it very much was survival of the fittest, with those that were not only strong, but sociable, being the fittest.

All of that changed, though, when the Krogan began to advance in technology. When they reached the industrial age, the population had exploded in growth, which led to a number of wars over resources and land. The discovery of nuclear energy, unlike the case with the Star League, proved to be the Krogan's downfall, as they had quickly discovered how to create nuclear weapons. What resulted was a catastrophic, nuclear war that had no only destroyed the planet surface, but had reduced the Krogan species to a mere shadow of it's former self. Over time, various clans formed, with the Chieftains of said clans struggling to bring law and order to a chaotic world.

When the Salarians encountered them, they had just recently rediscovered nuclear power, with many Krogan not wanting to unleash nuclear devastation once again onto their planet. The Salarians, desperate to find someone that could fight the Rachni, had genetically augmented the Krogan, before giving them the means and technology to fight the Rachni and win. This proved to be exactly what had to be done, as the Krogan were more than strong enough to take on the Rachni, with the war ending when the Rachni species had been rendered extinct.

That was where they made a big mistake, Wrex thought. Having talked with Hanse Steiner-Davion before coming here, Wrex agreed with Hanse that the Salarian's greatest mistake was not teaching the Krogan how to live in peace with the rest of the galaxy. Instead, they had left the Krogan to their own devices, with the mistaken belief that the Krogan would not need to be taught how to live normally in society. This had proven to be a huge error in judgment, as when the Krogan were told they were not allowed to take any planets from the other species, the Krogan Chieftains, enraged by what they heard, went to war with the galaxy. This had forced the use of the Genophage, in order to stop the Krogan Rebellions, with the Turians taking over the peace keeping role they once held.

Now, Wrex knew that, thanks to the Federated Commonwealth, and First Lord Hanse's compassion, the Krogan now had something that they had lost a long time ago. A future, he thought. A future where the Krogan will survive and, instead of waging endless war, will be able to finally learn what it means to live peacefully with the other species.

His smile faded as he remembered the past few days, only to reappear when he remembered Hanse's plan for the Krogan DMZ. The political reaction of Operation FRACTURED TERMINUS was mixed, with some praising the Star League, while others criticized them for disrupting the natural order of things. I don't give a shit as to what they think, he thought as he remembered some of the Council Race's reaction. What I do care about is that the Star League actually had the quad to take on the Terminus Systems and clean up a mess the Council neglected to fix.

On top of that, Wrex could remember the reaction that the Council Races had when it came to the refugees. Once the operation had been completed, there was the matter of what to do about the refugees; the Star League offered the refugees and emancipated slaves the opportunity to come live in the Inner Sphere, with many of the House Lords offering citizenship in their Great House. The Council offered to relocate them back to their homes and governments. To everyone's amazement, the refugees accepted the Star League's offer, as they stated repeatedly that they didn't feel safe in their home governments, and that the Star League was the only one that rescued them when the other Council Races failed to do so. In the end, the Star League got a nice boost in their population, while the rest of the Council Races were forced to watch as public opinion became even more favorable towards the Terrans.

All of that aside, Wrex thought as the DropShip drew closer to Tuchanka, I wonder if Hanse's plan for the Krogan DMZ has already gone into effect. I guess we'll find out once we get to Tuchanka proper. With that in mind, he decided to make himself comfortable and wait.

Eventually, the DropShip exited FTL flight, coming into orbit around Tuchanka, the Krogan homeworld. Getting up from his seat, Wrex looked at the holographic map of the star system, with their location being represented by a bright orange dot. Any other starships would appear as either white dots, if they were neutral, or red dots if they were an enemy. Looking at the holographic map, he could see a number of white dots, as well as a few green dots, with green indicating an ally. A moment later, he asked, "Bakara, any idea as to what's going on?"

"Yes," Bakara replied. "From what I can tell, there are HDF and SLDF ships present in the area. They aren't firing at each other, but something tells me that a negotiation is in place. In addition, we've been barred from landing until the Hierarchy and Star League ships are done with whatever it is they're doing. I'm guessing this is Hanse's plan in action."

"Indeed," Wrex remarked. He took a moment to consider his options before coming to a decision. "I can wait," he decided. "I've been away from Tuchanka for some time, a few more hours or minutes won't make a difference. Keep the weapons powered up, but do not open fire unless we're fired upon." With that, Wrex settled in once again and began to wait. Hopefully, Hanse's plan will work out in the end.

. . .

Federated Commonwealth

New Avalon

June 3rd, 3075

"I already told you," First Lord Hanse Steiner-Davion said to the Salarian Daltrass, "There is no need to be worried about what is happening. What is going on between my men and the Hierarchy is completely legal. The fact that you have a problem with it suggests that something is wrong."

He said this as he was talking to three of the more influential individuals in the Council Races, having adapted an Advanced HPG to work with the Council Races' COM Buoys while ensuring they couldn't break into the HyperNet. On his right was Matriarch Benezia, one of the few Asari that was neutral when it came to the Star League and it's more recent actions. In the middle was the Salarian Daltrass, while on the left was Primarch Fedorian, one of the more influential Primarchs in the Hierarchy's Council of Primarchs. Currently, they were talking about one of the offers that Hanse had made to the Hierarchy.

With the success of Project AMBROSIA, Hanse knew that the Krogan could be cured of the Genophage. He hadn't acted yet, however, as he knew that the Salarians would stop at nothing to prevent the Krogan from being cured of the Genophage, as they feared another Krogan Rebellion would occur if the Genophage was cured. As a result, Hanse had come to the conclusion that if Tuchanka was made an outpost of Clan Wolverine, the Salarians would be forced to back down, or risk invoking military action from the Star League. In order to do that, he had decided to arrange a meeting with Primarch Fedorian, who was responsible for the Krogan DMZ, in order to ascertain the possibility of purchasing the planet from the Hierarchy. Not only would it free up more resources for the Turians to use, it would also allow Clan Wolverine, led by Sarah McEvedy IV, to show the Krogan that there was a better way of life than what they currently had.

As was plainly evident, not everyone was approving of the plan. The Salarian Daltrass, for instance, had a panic attack when she learned of Hanse's plans, and had called for an emergency meeting on what to do. Benezia didn't approve, mostly because she felt that the Krogan would simply repeat the mistakes of the past. Fedorian was present because he had accepted Hanse's request for a meeting, and had been about to agree with Hanse's offer when the Daltrass and Benezia butted in.

"Of course there's something wrong," The Daltrass muttered. "The fact that you want to cure the Krogan of the Genophage suggests that you have no idea of what we had to do to keep the peace in the galaxy! Haven't you learned of what happened during the Krogan Rebellions?! If you cure the Genophage, you will cause a repeat of that incident!"

"I have read about what happened during the Krogan Rebellions," Hanse replied, doing his best not to blow his cap off and shout the Daltrass into submission. "I am fully aware of the atrocities that the Krogan species committed during that time period, which is why I remain adamant with my decision. The Krogan have suffered from the Genophage for far too long, and it would be immoral of me to allow the descendants of those Krogan to suffer for a mistake that they did not make. As for preventing the Krogan from repeating the Rebellions, I have a plan for that. I will do what you and the Asari failed to do after the Rachni Wars: I, the Khan of Clan Wolverine, and the other House Lords, will teach the Krogan how to live peacefully with other species, something that, I will say again, your species and the Asari failed to do." Looking at Benezia, he said, "Wouldn't you agree?"

"You… do make a good point," Benezia reluctantly admitted. "Still, I am not certain that this is the best decision to make, First Lord Hanse. The Krogan have shown repeatedly that they are an extremely aggressive and war-like species. Any attempts to teach them another way have usually ended in failure."

"Exactly," the Daltrass remarked. "Besides, how is this Clan supposed to teach the Krogan anything beyond war? If I recall correctly, the Clans are a warrior society, which is not what the Krogan needs."

"It is exactly what they need," Hanse countered. "Unlike the Krogan Clans, which are destructive and unrestrained, the Clans believe in honorable combat as a means of regulating disputes between other Clans. Their laws specifically prohibit atrocities committed against noncombatants; any clansman that would do that is usually killed in a Trial of Annihilation or a Trial of Grievance. Given how little infighting there is in the Warden Clans, as well as how advanced they became as a result, I do not see any reason why the Krogan should not be allowed to become members of Clan Wolverine. Besides, Khan McEvedy IV is a very firm leader; she will not allow another Krogan Rebellion to take place on her watch."

"Really," the Daltrass said sarcastically. "It's thanks to you that we're discussing this. We've had over a thousand years of peace thanks to the fact that we neutered those… beasts."

As soon as he heard that, Hanse finally had enough. Standing up, he said, "You listen to me, arrogant bitch. Unlike you, who have neglected to learn your history and to study an unbiased version of it, I have made extensive studies of the past, something that is necessary when you are the First Lord of the Star League. It is mandatory that anyone that wants to become a noble or a House Lord by line of succession has to have a comprehensive knowledge of history, so that the mistakes of the past are not repeated. That was a lesson drilled into my head from the very start, and it was a lesson that the Star League took to heart after the Succession War. The fact that you would call the Krogan mindless beasts suggests that no only have you neglected to learn from the past, but that your very morals and mind are not only damaged, but corrupt as well!" As he spoke, Hanse's voice grew in volume, until he was roaring at the Daltrass. Sitting down, he said, "I have had enough of you, Daltrass. If you attempt to talk to me again, you will not find any kindness from me."

"How dare you-!" Before the Daltrass could finish, Hanse cut the communication, cutting her off before she could finish, with the hologram fizzling into nonexistence.

"Finally, some peace and quiet after that arrogant woman's ramblings," Hanse remarked. "What a backwards thinking, elitist bitch." Looking at Benezia, he asked, "Anything else you wish to say, Benezia?"

"Nothing that would sway you from your course of action," Benezia replied. "You've made your choice, and I will respect it."

"Good," Hanse remarked as Benezia's hologram faded out of existence.

Fedorian was silent for a moment, then he said, "You slammed the door pretty hard on the Daltrass' face."

"I won't apologize for that," Hanse flatly stated.

"And you shouldn't," Fedorian nodded. "She was antagonizing you and you stomped on her. In my opinion, she deserved it. As for the Krogan, normally I hate the unknown, as there's no way to counter any potential disaster in that case, but I've read the papers that you sent to me when you made the offer. Is it true that Clan Wolverine can keep the Krogan in line?"

"It is," Hanse replied. "Clan Wolverine is nothing but stubborn, just like the mammal they are named after. Their record during the ending months of the First Interuniversal War clearly shows that."

"I know," Fedorian nodded. "I read those as well. There's also something else that I wished to discuss with you, concerning Operation FRACTURED TERMINUS. There were a lot of pirate warlords and kingpins that were in the Terminus Systems. Now that your species as, effectively, conquered it, they'll try to escape."

"I know," Hanse nodded. "Some of them did. I've been discussing that matter with the House Lords and we've come up with ways of finding and eliminating them."

"Good," Fedorian beamed. "Those warlords and kingpins will cause a lot of trouble in Council Space otherwise. I should also tell you that the Council might attempt to find some excuse to fight against your coalition."

"Let them try," Hanse remarked. "It'll only show how corrupt and bloated the current regime is."

"Indeed," Fedorian nodded. "Having looked at your offer, First Lord Hanse, I can safely say that it is an acceptable one. Tuchanka belongs to Clan Wolverine as of now. I will order the warships in orbit to stand down and allow the Star League to take over."

"I'm glad we could come to a reasonable decision," Hanse beamed. "Now, I wish to discuss with you some other affairs, now that the Hierarchy has known us for long enough." With that, Hanse and Primarch Fedorian began discussing some other things.

. . .

Back at Tuchanka, Wrex continued to pace back and forth as he waited for what would happen next. So far, the SLDF and HDF WarShips had continued to remain in close proximity, with the crews of each one waiting to find out what would happen. If this keeps up for too long, I'll find us a contract to fulfill to pass the time, Wrex thought.

Just as he was about to do so, Bakara spoke up. "Commander, the Turian WarShips are retreating to the Mass Relay. Looks like the Star League is taking ownership of the Krogan DMZ."

Yes, Wrex thought internally as he heard those words. Hanse's plan worked out! "Alright," he nodded, a smile on his face. "Begin landing procedures. We're heading to Clan Urdnot territory."

With that, the DropShip shuddered as it's Impulse Engines activated, sending the Leopard-V DropShip towards the atmosphere of Tuchanka. After a couple minutes, the ship began to shudder and shake, as the DropShip pushed through Tuchanka's dust and fallout choked atmosphere and towards the ground. After a few more minutes, the shuddering stopped, indicating their safe reentry into the planet's atmosphere. Pulling up a video feed, Wrex looked out at the landscape of Tuchanka.

If there was a word that could be used to describe Tuchanka, it was 'fucked.' All around, as far as the eye could see, there was wreckage and debris that littered the ground, evidence of the Krogan's nuclear war from antiquity. Buildings and roadways stuck up from the ground like broken teeth inside the mouth of a giant, while some buildings, having withstood the test of time, defiantly remained upright, a showcase of Krogan engineering prowess, now lost to time and the nuclear war. Howling wind blew through the area, kicking up dust devils as well as large clouds of dust and sand. The sky was a reddish pink color, courtesy of nuclear fallout and dust that had been swept up into the atmosphere by powerful winds. Tuchanka's sun, Aralak, glinted faintly in the sky, with a halo around the star forming thanks to ice crystals up in Tuchanka's atmosphere. If one looked more closely, they would've seen a number of skeletons on the ground, some the corpses of Varren, a canine-like animal native to Tuchanka, while others were Krogan that had died a long time ago.

Looking at the planet, Wrex knew that what he was seeing was the last vestige of the past. This is what will happen to us if we don't change, he thought as they flew over the landscape. If we don't change, we will end up destroying each other, until there is nothing left but the skeletons that used to be inside of our bodies. Only by changing who we are will our species survive, and I refuse to accept the alternative. As they flew over head, he spotted what appeared to be a large, flat area that was large enough for two Leopard-V DropShips to land at. "Land at that flat area," he informed Bakara. "We'll proceed in our 'Mechs from here on out. The terrain's too hazardous for tracked and wheeled vehicles."

"Affirmative," Bakara replied. "We're landing now." Moments later, Wrex watched as the ship slowed down before coming to a standstill above the flattened area. After a moment, the DropShip gently landed on the ground, with the Impulse Thrusters holding it in the air shutting off a moment later.

With that, Wrex left for the 'Mech Bay, walking out of the command center for the DropShip and into the cavernous bay. To his surprise, he found his fellow mercenaries standing at their 'Mechs, Neurohelmets in hand as they watched him enter. "What is it," Wrex asked.

"Do you want us to come with you," Quentorus asked him. "We've worked alongside you for the past seventeen years, Wrex. We might be mercenaries, but even we know what the meaning of loyalty is."

Looking at his Lancemates, Wrex considered their words. True, they were mercenaries, but over the past seventeen years, he had gotten to know each one of his fellow mercenaries, even helped out a few with some personal problems that they had. After a moment, he realized that it would be rude of him to have his men stay. A moment later, he said, "Alright. Load up into your 'Mechs."

"Yes, sir," the others replied, heading to the elevators that would take them to the cockpits of their BattleMechs. Once his elevator reached the top, Wrex clambered into one of the other 'Mechs he owned, a Battlemaster-V he'd gotten from a friend, activating the 'Mech as he went through the power up procedure. Once that was done, he put his Neurohelmet on and waited to leave the DropShip. Moments later, his 'Mech was rotated around, with the 'Mech Bay doors opening moments later to the nuclear wasteland that was Tuchanka.

Guiding the 'Mech out, Wrex began scanning for any signs of Clan Urdnot, his 'Mech's computer cycling through COM channels while he scanned visually for any signs. Moments later, his 'Mech computer pinged, bringing up a COM channel that had activity. "Alright," he told the others. "I found Clan Urdnot's main frequency. We're heading out."

"Affirmative," Nakmor Drak replied. "It'll be good to find out what's been going on for the past seventeen years, or 967 in my case." There was some light laughter from the others at that remark, while Wrex smiled. Setting up a waypoint, he began moving towards the source of the radio signal, intent on getting to Clan Urdnot's HQ. The journey to the HQ was a long one, but not excessively so, as Bakara had landed roughly ten kilometers from the actual base itself. It would take about 15 minutes to reach the actual facility going at roughly 64km/h, so Wrex decided to have his Lance form up on him in the event that they were attacked while en route to the base. Thanks to their 'Mechs, they didn't have to slow down, as the bipedal walkers were able to easily navigate the difficult terrain that the debris had formed.

As they drew closer, Wrex thought he heard a COM burst on the radio. Scanning the area, he found that the COM burst came from his immediate right, from what appeared to be a Tomkah that was just a hundred meters away. Looking around, Wrex noticed that they were surrounded by Tomkah's, each one bearing the symbol of Clan Urdnot. While there were a lot of Tomkah's, he wasn't concerned, as he knew that their weaponry had no chance of penetrating energy shielding, or Advanced Ferro-Lamellor Armor for that matter. A moment later, a gruff voice spoke up on the radio. "This is Urdnot Grishnor, identify yourselves."

Keying his COM, Wrex said, "This is Urdnot Wrex of the merc company Aralak's Fury, stand down. We're not here to cause any trouble."

"Urdnot Wrex," the gruff voice asked, seemingly surprised. There was some talking as the Krogan on the other end talked with his subordinates, then the voice said, "Urdnot Wreav wishes to speak with you. We are to escort you to our main base."

"Lead the way," Wrex replied. With that, the Tomkah's left for the base, with Wrex and the others following behind them. The Inner Sphere BattleMechs could easily outpace the Tomkah's, but Wrex matched their speed so that he wouldn't leave them behind. For the next ten minutes, they continued on in silence, with the clattering of the Tomkah's wheels being partially overshadowed by the mechanical thumping sounds of the BattleMechs walking along behind them.

Eventually, they arrived at the base that Clan Urdnot was using. The HQ for Clan Urdnot was built in an underground subway complex that had served as a bomb shelter during the nuclear war that had devastated the planet. While Wrex couldn't see any entrances from where he was, he knew that there was a garage, as the Tomkah's pulled into what appeared to be an armored doorway. Bringing the 'Mech to a stop, he clambered out of the 'Mech and deployed the chain ladder, gently sliding down it before landing on the ground, with the ladder retracting moments later. Walking over to the door, a pair of guards examined his ID before clearing him to go inside. Walking inside the garage door, Wrex continued down a sloping path before coming out into the garage proper. Everywhere he looked, he could see Tomkah's that were being repaired and refitted, with Krogan mechanics working on making sure the vehicles were ready to go. Powerful lights kept the place illuminated, and technicians were working on making new tools at workbenches.

As soon as he entered, everyone stopped what they were doing for a moment to see who the newcomer was, before returning to their business. A pair of Krogan walked up to Wrex a moment later, weapon in hand as they approached him and his Lancemantes. "The Clan Leader wishes to speak with you," one of the guards said to him. "You'll have to leave your men behind."

"They are my krant," Wrex replied. "They have fought admirably by my side for seventeen years. They are coming with me." When he said that, the guards, realizing what Wrex was saying, didn't protest any further. Instead, they motioned for him and his Lancemates to come with him. Walking along, Wrex could tell that a lot of Krogan were surprised by the quality and appearance of his gear. Listening closely, he could tell that they were all commenting about the star symbol that was on his armor, indicating that they had seen the symbol of the Star League glinting on his armor slightly. That was normal, as the SLIC had custom built this armor for Wrex when he accepted their contract, a contract he didn't regret accepting for even a moment.

That was when they entered the upper section of the main chamber of Clan Urdnot's HQ. The main chamber was where the majority of the clan was at, with the chamber divided into two distinct levels. The first level of the main chamber used to be the upper platform for any subway trains, though the southern section of the subway complex was sealed off to prevent any rival clans from breaking into the base. The lower section was where the lower platform used to be, and was now being used as sleeping quarters, as well as the garage that Wrex had come from not a minute ago. Looking around, he could see that Wreav, his brother, had been busy cleaning up the place, as the debris that was normally present was missing.

Looking up, he could see the throne that he used to sit on before he left Tuchanka proper. It was clear that Wreav had been busy here as well, as this wasn't a throne thrown together from concrete blocks and rebar. This was a proper throne, with padding on the seat, a pair of angular armrests, as well as proper legs, which would allow this throne to be moved if need be. The throne was illuminated by powerful lights in the ceiling, allowing everyone to see who was the leader of Clan Urdnot.

Sitting in the throne, talking to one of his men, was Urdnot Wreav. Unlike Wrex, who had a red and black colored headplate, Wreav's was a dark brown, almost black, color, while his skin was a healthy tan color. Two green eyes were currently focused on one of the guards, which Wrex realized was Clan Urdnot's Battlemaster, the chief strategist of the clan. Nearby was the clan's shaman, the Krogan responsible for the various rites that Krogan performed for various actions and occasions.

As soon as he walked inside, Wreav immediately turned towards Wrex, his gaze as hard as stone as he looked Wrex up and down. Getting up, he walked down to where Wrex was, coming to a stop a few feet from the hardened Krogan 'MechWarrior. There was a brief silence between the two before Wreav said, "Huh, you've gotten fat."

"What about you," Wrex replied. "That throne looks plushy enough that you might like sitting in it. I'll bet it's creaking due to the fact that you've gotten fat as well."

There was some silence as the others got ready for a fight. Instead of that, Wreav laughed heartily before embracing his older brother in a bear hug, with the older Krogan laughing as he did so. Standing back a moment, both Krogan grunted as they headbutted each other, laughing as they pulled apart. "It's good to see you again, brother," Wreav beamed, his expression one of happiness as he spoke. "Come on, sit down with me. You've probably had an interesting time coming here." Walking alongside his brother, Wrex sat down on an equally impressive throne chair that Wreav's guards brought out, with Wreav pulling out a couple glasses, as well as a bottle of ryncol. "Here you go," he beamed, pouring a burgundy colored liquid into the glass. "A glass of ryncol. To a family reunion

"Thank you," Wrex replied. "To a family reunion." With that, he drank the contents of the glass, downing the draught in one go.

Clearing his throat, Wreav said, "So, where have you been for the last few centuries."

"Working as a mercenary," Wrex replied, pouring another drink as he talked. "It's a hard life, but it rarely lacks for excitement, more so since that new species of squishes came along."

"You mean this Star League," Wreav asked.

"Yes," Wrex replied, downing another draught of ryncol. "They're not that different from us, when you think about it, especially the Warden Clans. I've done some contracts for them, and they are obsessed with honor. Makes sense due to their warrior society." After a moment, he asked, "So, how did the clan do while I was gone."

"Quite well," Wreav replied. "As you can see, we were really busy cleaning up the place, as a little bird told me that a sibling of mine was coming back. I take it you know who that little bird was."

"Yep," Wrex beamed. "One Hanse Steiner-Davion. If you don't know already, he's the First Lord of the Star League, the coalition the new species formed."

"Oh," Wreav remarked, surprised. "I did not know that." Clearing his throat, he said, "Beyond that, it's been the same old. We've been trying to encourage the other clans to make love, not war, though it's been harder on some decades than it has on others. Clan Nakmor is now one of our strongest allies, as are a few other clans. Clan Weyrloc is still spouting the same nonsense about rebuilding the Krogan Empire, that kind of thing. Not all of it's been good though."

"What do you mean," Wrex asked, noting Wreav's downcast expression.

"Our mother isn't doing well," Wreav replied. "She's… she's dying, Wrex."

When Wreav said this, Wrex felt his heart sink. There were very few people in his life that he loved; his lancemates were part of that group, as were the people that were responsible for saving his species. His mother, a gentle but tough Krogan named Urdnot Bokara, held a special place in his heart, and it was easy to see why. She was the one that had opposed Wrex's father when it came to continuing the Krogan Rebellions, and she was the one that had nurtured and raised him, as well as his brother, telling them both that there was another way besides what their father believed. As a result, while Wrex hated his father, he deeply loved his mother, and had regularly sent back credits to make sure she would be OK. To hear that she was dying was like someone had ripped off his headplate with a knife. "Is she…", he asked.

"The doctors say that her organs are failing," Wreav replied. "She's also suffering from muscle degradation due to some illness that the doctors say is genetic. She's also in pain, as her nerve system is failing as well; there are times where it's all she can do to stop herself from screaming. We've been doing all we can for her, but when the doctors gave me the long face, I knew then that she was dying. She's got about a year left, Wrex, and she's in the worst pain imaginable." When he said this, Wrex noticed that Wreav looked old, worn out, as though he was almost at the end of his rope.

Wrex would've felt that way as well, but then he realized something: the Star League had access to the most advanced medical technology in the galaxy, courtesy of their alliance with the newly reformed Covenant, as well as courtesy of their own R&D complex, not to mention the Clan's science caste as well. It was possible that he might be able to save his mother through the use of Inner Sphere medical technology. Looking at Wreav, he said, "There is a way we can save her."

"We can," Wreav asked, looking hopeful.

"The Star League," Wrex replied. "They have access to advanced medical technologies, technologies that allow the Terrans, the species I mentioned earlier, to live to around five hundred and fifty years of age. If we get our mother to the New Avalon Institute of Science, they'll be able to save her; she won't have to live the rest of her life in pain and they'll fix up her organs and body."

"They can," Wreav asked, hope dawning on his face.

"They can," Wrex nodded. "They fixed me up as well when I became a 'MechWarrior, the name they give to some of the elite mercenaries in the Inner Sphere. When I was recruited, they sent me to Sahkara Academy, which also has a R&D complex built into the structure. For about a year, I allowed them to study me so that they could create a standard by which all other Krogan would be measured by if they wanted to become a 'MechWarrior. If they were able to improve my body, they can save her as well."

"If they can, then that will be a relief," Wreav beamed. "That's cause for celebration right there. Still, there's more to it than that."

"There is," Wrex nodded. Looking around, he said, "What I am going to tell you will shake you to your core. First, however, we need to speak in private. I don't trust these walls and floors."

"We have a private meeting room that I use when speaking with the Battlemaster and Shaman on more sensitive matters," Wreav suggested. Nodding in agreement, Wrex got up with Wreav, before the two entered the meeting room. Wreav was surprised when Wrex used his Omni-Tool, causing a slight disruption in the room's lighting. "What was that," he asked.

"A micro-EMP," Wrex replied. "It's designed to neutralize any listening devices within the area without harming other electronics." Right on cue, they heard a slight tinkling sound as roughly twenty bugs fell out of various parts of the room. Clearing his throat, he said, "Remember when the Genophage was used on us?"

"Yes," Wreav replied. "That was a dark day for all of our species. Granted, the Council was desperate, and they used it as a last resort, but it was a dark day indeed. It's because of the Genophage, and the mindless stupidity of some of the Clans, that our species is dying out."

"Indeed," Wrex nodded. "What if I told you, that the Star League has been secretly working on a way to cure the Genophage, and that they succeeded in their goal."

When Wrex said that, Wreav's eyes went as wide as they possibly could, and his jaw dropped open slightly. For a minute, he remained like that, until Wrex gently tapped him in the shoulder, startling the younger Krogan to full wakefulness. "That… that's impossible," he stammered. "The doctors said it couldn't be cured."

"It turns out, it can be," Wrex replied. "Hanse Steiner-Davion broke the news to me when I was visiting him on New Avalon. When he learned about the Genophage, he began a secret operation to cure our species of the Genophage, codenamed Project AMBROSIA. It's goal was to create a nanotechnology based gene editing procedure that is more accurate than Advanced CRISPR Gene Editing, which was the method they've used for a long time. Called NanoGene Editing, it's designed to not only enhance an individual's genetic code, it's designed to cure any genetic illnesses that might harm or kill a person. That includes the Genophage, which was the firs thing they tested it against."

"And," Wreav asked.

"It worked perfectly," Wrex replied. "I watched as a Krogan mother got to watch as all five of her eggs hatched, to reveal perfectly healthy baby Krogan." A moment later, he pulled up the video that he'd been allowed to share with his brother.

When the video ended, Wrex noticed that Wreav had tears of joy that were starting to stream down his face, his jaw open in wonder as he watched the Krogan on the video embrace her children for the first time. Looking up at Wrex, he said, "I… I never thought that would ever happen. That's… that's wonderful, and these squishes did this?"

"Yes," Wrex replied. "Hanse Steiner-Davion believed that the Genophage was wrong. He said that one of the greatest evils any species can do is deny another species the hope and chance of a future. That was the main reason why he began this project; he felt our species had suffered long enough. That's why he just acquired the Krogan DMZ from the Hierarchy: he wants to restore our species."

"What about Clan Weyrloc," Wreav asked. "You know what they'll do once they know the Genophage's been cured."

"I know," Wrex nodded. "So does Hanse. That's why he'll be sending people from the SLDF to take over security for the DMZ. What he plans to do is to educate our species, so that we can learn how to live in peace with the others. Project AMBROSIA will also modify our species fertility so that we don't reproduce so quickly that we overwork a planet's resources, which is what he believes brought about our nuclear war as well as the Krogan Rebellions."

"He's right on those parts," Wreav nodded. "It was overpopulation and resource scarcity that resulted in those wars happening. Still, it's comforting to know that Hanse has a plan. Does he intend to go farther than that?"

"Yes," Wrex nodded. "According to him, Tuchanka will become a holding of Clan Wolverine. To give you an idea, the Clans are a warrior society that believes in honorable combat, and has the desire to help the Inner Sphere protect itself from any threat, both from within and without. Hanse told me that Clan Wolverine will teach us how to use honorable combat to prevent devastation like our species has suffered. In the end, everyone wins."

"I see," Wreav remarked. "Would you like to…"

"Yes," Wrex remarked. With that, both Krogan left the meeting room for the infirmary that was set up in the base.

The rooms that formed the infirmary were originally part of the maintenance section of the subway facility, with the main hallway branching off into smaller hallways that rooms connected to on either side. Walking down the hallway, Wrex could see that Wreav had been busy here as well, with medical personnel and equipment being set up and arranged neatly wherever there was room. Walking to a private room, Wreav opened the door, allowing Wrex to enter the room.

Despite the fact that the walls and ceiling were concrete, the room had a comfortable air about it. A table with a mirror, as well as a few stands were in place, along with a lamp that provided soft lighting in the room. A single bed was in the room, with an EKG on one side, as well as what appeared to be IV bags holding painkillers on a stand. On the bed itself was Wrex and Wreav's mother. She was a old Krogan, with a faded brown headplate that had a number of ridges and bumps on it. Her skin, once a deep brown, was now a sickly pale color, and the portions of her body that were visible looked gaunt and bony, while her hump was almost gone. She was currently asleep, as her eyes were closed; in this state, she looked peaceful, as though she was disconnected from the pain she would usually suffer. When Wrex approached, her eyes opened to reveal two, milky white orbs, the result of cataracts that had formed in her eyes. Despite her apparent blindness, she turned in Wrex's direction and said, in a weak voice, "Is that my boy, Wrex, coming home?"

"It is," Wrex replied. Kneeling down by her side, he gently took one of her hands into his own. "Mother. It's been a while since I last saw you."

"It has been," Bokara replied, weakly nodding as she turned towards him. Running a hand along his face, she smiled while saying, "You've grown so handsome, my boy. If only my eyes were clear, so that I might see your face." She winced a moment later, indicating that she still felt some pain, despite the painkillers.

"Mother," Wrex began. "It hurts to see you like this."

"I know," Bokara nodded, a grimace forming on her face as she spoke. "I never thought I'd outlive my husband, not after what happened between you and him. He was always one to brood, enough that he allowed an old wound to fester. You, Wrex, were always the realist; the one that admitted that we couldn't go on like this. I wonder if this is our race's fate: to slowly fade away, leaving only our name for posterity."

Holding her hand, Wrex said, "It's not going to be that way soon, mother. A new species has made itself known in the galaxy, one that has far more advanced technology than any other. One of their leaders has found a cure for the Genophage. If they can cure the Genophage, they can help you, mother. You won't be in pain anymore."

"Really," Bokara asked, surprised.

"Yes," Wrex nodded.

"Then it seems that there is hope for us yet," Bokara smiled. "I don't know why, but hearing that makes me feel better, younger even." Turning towards Wrex, she said, "If you believe that they can repair my failing body, then I have reason to believe that they can do it. Will we be leaving soon?"

"Possibly," Wrex replied. "If Clan Urdnot is willing to have me back as their Clan Leader, then I'll do whatever I can to get you to the Inner Sphere, where the Star League is at. I know some people at one of their facilities, the New Avalon Institute of Science, that can repair your body."

"Then I accept," Bokara smiled, the pain seemingly fading away. "Do what you have to do, contact whom you need to, say what you need to. Even though we parted on a bad note, Wrex, I know that you've taken good care of me. The credits you've sent me were spent wisely on the future of this clan. As always, Wrex, you've always been my good boy; I will never forget what you've done for me, despite what happened."

"I know," Wrex replied. "I never stopped caring for you. Even on my occupation as a mercenary, you were always in my mind." Getting up, he said, "I love you," before gently releasing her hand, walking out of the door a moment later. When he left, he noticed that Bokara seemed happy, as though all the medicine she needed was her son coming back home. Turning to Wreav, he said, "I know what you're going to say."

"I know," Wreav replied, "but the fact of the matter is that we need you back. We'll need to talk to the Star League about getting supplies, weapons, people that can help us. If we don't, then this will just be a pipe dream."

"I know," Wrex replied. "In a few days, Clan Wolverine will be sending us weapons, food, supplies, and people that will help us. Then, we will show the other Krogan that there is another way besides war, that our people can survive in this brave new world."

"Agreed," Wreav nodded. After a moment, he said, "Let's not talk about dreary subjects anymore, though. Tonight, we'll be celebrating the future of our species as members of the Star League, and the end of the Genophage itself. Besides, I'm certain you can regale us with tales of your time in the Star League."

"Regale," Wrex remarked, a happy laugh coming from him. "Brother, I could tell you stories about my experiences. There was this one time-" Wrex's voice faded in volume as he and his brother walked away from the medical wing of Clan Urdnot's base, only briefly rising in volume as he and his brother laughed. There was one thing he knew: the Krogan had it tough, but things were now starting to look bright.