Udina, Human Embassy, Citadel
Udina read over the message Shepard sent. Apparently, the man had found proof Saren was behind Eden prime and was bringing it now. Udina had doubts whether Shepard could even do it. Yet apparently the man succeeded in merely a couple of days. Better yet he hadn't been caught. Udina had not doubt that Shepard had something to do with the sudden spate of gang violence but so long as Shepard or the Alliance wasn't implicated, he did not care. What bothered Udina was the assertion that his assistant had been feeding Harkin information. Dealing with Harkin would be easy. He would simply allow him to be arrested for the myriad of crimes he committed over the years. Valerica would need a softer touch. He called out for his other assistant.
"You called?" Came the tactful tone of Daniel.
"We apparently are going to have quarian company soon. When the press makes a fuss simply say we wanted an expert opinion on the geth. Don't go deeper." It was best to have a plan in place before the press asked annoying questions.
"Of course." The aid left and was replaced by Captain Anderson came in.
"Captain Anderson, did we have a meeting scheduled?" It was a roundabout way of asking why the captain was here. Udina knew they had no meeting scheduled.
"Shepard sent a message saying he found proof and was coming here. I came as fast as I could." The captain stated.
Fine thought Udina. Though unneeded the captain's presence changed nothing. Soon after the captain Shepard came in with his crew. Udina mentally gave a sigh of relief as Shepard apparently took the time to dress and didn't come in fully armored. A group of armored figures entering the embassy would be get the press asking all sorts of annoying questions.
"Commander, you have something to show me?" Udina asked rhetorically, as usual skipping pleasantries.
"Yes." Said Shepard gesturing to the quarian beside him. "Ms. Zorah would you do the honors?"
The quarian taped a few keystroked and a message played. "Eden prime was a success despite the failure of the geth to destroy the evidence of our presence. We shall face more scrutiny going forward. Still, we have achieved the goal. I have the message from the beacon, and this brings us one step closer to the conduit."
Captain Anderson broke in "That is Saren's voice. We've got the rat bastard dead to rights." However Before Udina could join in the message continued.
"And one step closer to the return of the reapers."
"We don't know who the other voice is. But these reapers she mentions, the geth believe them to be some sort of machines gods responsible to wiping out the protheans and that Saren is going to return them via this conduit." The commander explained.
"Sounds farfetched" Said Udina, it was more diplomatic than saying his actual thoughts. The commander seemed uncertain though.
"That vision I saw at the beacon. I could make out some still images and they almost invariably contain scenes of death. Machines killing people. They could be these reapers mentioned."
Udina thought that was preposterous, after all in the modern battlefield machines kill people all the time and that wasn't evidence of some race of sentient machine gods. Besides in all his reports the commander described the visions as 'madness personified.' Taking a few stills from that madness, stills that may be misremembered, as evidence for some grand cosmic conspiracy was absurd.
"These audio logs prove Saren is guilty if nothing else." Said captain Anderson. Udina seized the chance to change the topic.
"The captain is correct. Commander! Meet me back here in an hour. I want you shining like the sun. It's time you meet the council. You two." He said pointing to the two soldiers behind Shepard.
"You can return to the ship you will have new orders soon enough." Turning to the quarian he continued.
"And you Ms. Zorah will have everything the commander promised and more, but it will have to wait until business with the council is concluded. Daniel!" He called out for his assistant who obligingly poked his head through a short time later.
"You called?"
"Yes take Ms. Zorah here and make her feel welcome. Anything she wants she gets." The quarian seemed hesitant to follow his assistant but with a nod from the commander she left.
"Is it just going to be me and you meeting the council?" Asked Shepard.
"Yes." It was best this way. The goal was to make Shepard seem as good as possible in front of the council.. If Udina thought they could get away with it, he wouldn't mention the quarian at all. However, first rule of lying is to make sure you're able to get away with it. Best to downplay any and all aid Shepard had. Udina's goals were clear: get Shepard inducted as a spectre and use the leverage of a council agent attacking a human colony to extract a promise of military support.
"One last thing." The commander said before handing Udina a datapad. "My bill."
"Your bill?" Udina asked puzzled before looking and down and gawking at the number.
"Yes, this was the sum total of my expenses. Despite proving useless the broker wasn't cheap."
Udina spent some time wondering if it was worth arguing over. Eventually he decided it isn't worth the arguing over. It wasn't Udina's money Shepard was asking for.
"I'll make a few calls and have the discretionary fund we set up for the Normandy increased when you take over. If we, do it any other way people may ask questions that are best eft unanswered." He handed the datapad back to Shepard who merely nodded.
"Do you think the council will agree to meet on such short notice?" Asked Captain Anderson.
Udina gave a sly smile. "They will after they read the message I send." It was very rare that anyone had a clear upper hand over the council, and he was going to enjoy it.
Tevos, Council Offices, Citadel.
Tevos entered the council chambers and noticed Valern already sitting in his seat. The Salarian looked serene as always. Salarians processed emotions quickly like they did everything else. The emotions of shock Valern must have felt when reading the ambassadors message must have gone by now. Tevos however was still recovering, though she didn't let it show.
The salarian turned to greet her.
"Hello Tevos. I assume you know where this is going?" He said without pausing in the typical rapid fire salarian manner.
"Yes, and I'm not particularly happy about it." She admitted. She never liked being forced down a specific path but right now the Humans had all the leverage they needed to get what they wanted. As she sat down Sparatus entered and though his face was serene, his gate betrayed his agitated state of mind.
"Do you believe this story their trying to feed us?" He said as he sat down.
"I assume you don't mean the evidence?" Asked Tevos. The council techs confirmed that it was indeed Saren's voice, and that the recording was genuine.
"No, I mean that story about Shepard. Lone soldier going against an order to prove what he knows to be true? They're trying to make him look good, still angling for the spectre position."
"Or they simply don't want to admit to ordering an illegal investigation into a council spectre. Either way it's immaterial. He found proof where others failed. I say he earned a spot." Said Tevos. Sparatus opened his mouth, but Valern cut in.
"It seems to me that what we think is rather inconsequential at this point is it not? What matters is what the humans want for their silence." He said.
Sparatus closed his mouth. Valern was right. The situation was in the Alliance's hands. The populace could not know that an attack on a human colony was attacked was led by an honored council spectre, and that when the human's brought accusations, the council let c-sec investigate instead of another spectre. What would the other races think? There were already accusations of favoritism for humanity. What would the hanar or elcor think when the 'favorites' are attacked and instead of treating it seriously the council ignored it?
The council took a risk by assuming that the attack was a one-time thing, and that Saren was not guilty. It was the classic hindsight moment. Right now, the public will say it was obvious all along that Saren was guilty. In reality it seemed preposterous when the humans accused him. But because actually was guilty the humans could essentially dictate terms for their silence. Otherwise, the greatest scandal in centuries will grip the galaxy.
A light appeared on the console indicating the ambassador and Shepard had arrived. Tevos and the others ignored it for now. There were still things to be discussed.
"What do you think they want?" Asked Sparatus eventually.
"Same things they wanted in the beginning. A human spectre. A council fleet patrolling the attican traverse to defend against future attacks." Said Tevos
"We'll be lucky if that's all they ask for. The ambassador has never been shy in trying to get the best possible deal for the alliance." Said Valern.
Sparatus set his jaw and though for a moment. "Fine but we mustn't just give them what they want. We have enough leverage to get something in return. Yelling about Saren will have consequences they will want to avoid." He eventually said.
"I think if they ask for more than the expected aid, we can get them to stop that dreadnought program of theirs." Said Valern.
That would be a success. Thought Tevos. The humans had signed on to the treaty of Farixen with no complaints initially. However, when they reached their allotted limit on dreadnoughts, they started making attempts at renegotiation. Claiming that as the galaxies bulwark against the uncivilized traverse they needed more ship to adequately defend themselves and the galaxy. The council refused such demands, and Alliance contented themselves with strengthening their carrier fleet for a time.
It came as quite a shock when the humans announced plans to build a new class of ship the ultra-heavy cruiser. The ship was the size of a dreadnought with the gun of a heavy cruiser. This was breaking the spirit of the treaty without breaking the words. Ships were classified not by tonnage but by the length of their main gun. This was because all ships were built around the main gun. No one in their right mind would build something that could fit a larger gun without adding that larger gun.
The Alliance's plans became obvious when the STG managed to obtain some blueprints for the proposed ship. It was indeed a dreadnought sized vessel with a heavy cruiser's gun however, it had the capability to be rapidly converted into a full dreadnought. The STG's prediction was that if the humans prepare the conversion ahead of time, which they undoubtedly would, it will take less than a week to fully convert. A miracle of engineering and an extremely provocative action. Since the Alliance didn't actually break the treaty, the council had the complicated task of getting them to stop, it was an issue of grave concern.
So far none had been built. Tevos was unsure if the alliance was even serious about building it. She knew it was a matter of great controversy even in the Alliance. With most admirals claiming that such a ship was pointless as it didn't fit in with the Alliance maneuver warfare strategy. A ship only useful a week after the war began was a waste of many in many people's eyes. Personally, Tevos thought it was just political posturing. It was pushed by politicians who wanted to make a big uproar so they can seem reasonable when they cancel the program and maybe even get something for it. So far it had gone nowhere beyond planning. However, it was a matter of serious concern so settling it would be for the best.
"Agreed." Said Tevos. "We all know how these things work; shall we invite them in?"
Personlly she wasn't against sending in a fleet. As she saw it, the recording made it clear further geth incursion were likely. The council could not just stand back and let the robots invade. However, the issue was now political. The ambassador had a magic bullet for the time being. It was best to let him expend it on something they weren't against giving. Well, something she wasn't against giving. Sparatus had a different opinion. And if they could get something in return even better.
The other two councilors nodded and Tevos summoned the humans via her console. They strode in, the ambassador's walk full of confidence while Shepard marched like a turian, the gait of a lifelong military man. They took their seats.
Getting the first word in Udina spoke. "You wanted proof and now you have it. Irrefutable proof your agent is a traitor and war criminal."
"Saren will be stripped of status, and we shall bring him to answer for his crimes." Sparatus said gravely.
Udina gave a stern look before replying. "Saren did not operate alone. He has a fleet of geth. The council must send a fleet in!"
"A fleet cannot track down one man." Valern stated.
Udina shot back. "It can… but more importantly it can secure a region and prevent his geth from attacking our colonies."
"Or it can start a war. There is no indication the geth are invading. There is no need for such a response." Said Sparatus.
Now it was Tevos' turn to jump in. The ambassador had made his demand it was time for her to counteroffer.
"There are other ways to bring him to justice. A way that doesn't require fleet or armies."
"No, it's too soon! Humanity is not ready for the responsibility of joining the spectres." Sparatus broke in.
"On the contrary we've been ready years now." Said the Ambassador.
Tevos suppressed a smile. Sparatus was resigned to a human spectre but he was as canny a politician as anyone else. He was making it seem that it was a difficult decision. If the ambassador thought, they were barely willing to grant a spectre it was less likely he would ask for more.
She looked over to Valern who pretended to ponder the situation for a few seconds, before nodding. Then she looked to Sparatus who also waited before nodding. She then turned to the commander.
"Congratulation's commander. You have been accepted into the spectres. Please get ready and meet us in an hour at the main chamber. We shall make a televised announcement."
The commander nodded and stood to leave but Valern stopped him.
"Commander we still have questions." The commander sat back down and valern spoke again. "What do we know about these reapers?"
"Remarkably little, only what was extracted from the memory core. The geth believe they wiped out the protheans. The geth revere them as machine gods and that Saren is a 'prophet' that's going to bring them back."
"Sounds highly improbable." Said Valern, and Tevos had to agree.
"I'm not so sure councilor." The commander said calmly, much to the shock of the ambassador and everyone else. "I think the fact the geth believe them to be true is enough to entertain the possibility of their existence. Machines are not susceptible to emotional manipulation. Whatever Saren said to get them on his side must have been very convincing."
"Saren is a much better negotiator then you give him credit for Shepard." Said Sparatus with the surety of that only came with the absolute belief of being right. "These reapers are obviously just a method of gaining the geth's loyalty. Where did these reapers go? Where did they come from? Why did we not find any evidence of their existence? What force stronger than the protheans could have locked them away?"
The commander answered calmy. "All good questions that I cannot give answers too, councilor. However, an absence of evidence is not necessarily evidence of absence. The existence of these reapers would explain a great deal, and like all world-shaking revelations lead to more questions than answers. I think the reapers exist, and when I catch Saren I intend to answer your questions."
Tevos picked up on his last sentence. Seizin the opportunity to shift the subject. "Speaking of catching Saren. I recognize the second voice in the recording. It's matriarch Benezia."
"Do you know her personally?" He asked.
"I've met her a few times." She admitted. "She's an influential matriarch with lots of followers. Her involvement with Saren is extremely troubling as she will be a formidable ally to him."
"Well, that's one mystery solved, at least. If there are no more questions councilors, I shall go prepare." When no one said anything, the commander got up and walked out leaving the ambassador alone.
Before he could also be dismissed the ambassador spoke up. "Councilors when humanity joined the citadel, we signed a contract. This contract spelled out our responsibilities."
"We are all aware of the citadel conventions ambassador. Is there a point to this?" Sparatus said exasperated.
"Those contracts also spell out the duties of the council in regard to us. Those duties include military support against a hostile power. The geth are a hostile power and the message makes it clear this was not an Isolated incident. You told me I do not get to make demands of the council in our last meeting. I say I have the full authority to demand that the council fulfills its obligations!" He finished, raising his voice just enough to be heard but not enough to be called disrespectful.
"The councils main aim is to ensure galactic peace and stability. All the restrictions and obligations put on members and client states are aimed towards promoting that goal. The council will do its part to defend galactic stability, as long as you do yours." Answered Tevos.
"Speak plainly councilor. What is it you need?" The ambassador said with the slight smile. He clearly understood their predicament.
"This matter with Saren is best dealt with internally. It's best for the public to not know the specifics of how he was involved. Keeping that secret is a matter of galactic stability. You will get a fleet patrolling the traverse. So long as we get silence on this matter." Said Valern
The ambassador made a big show of considering the demand. "Councilors I agree that galactic stability is a prime goal. However, this request is something beyond the scope of our agreed obligations. The alliance is willing to above its obligations in order to achieve such a goal. But we have obligations to our people." He continued. "We cannot without sufficient reason simply lie."
"Take you own advice ambassador." Sparatus said. "What is it you want?"
"When this business with the geth is over, I want the council fleet to stay. Let's say for five years."
Tevos thought about it. Leaving a fleet patrolling the traverse would be of great benefit to humanity. It would enable even faster and more secure human expansion in the region. It would also be somewhat beneficial to the council. If humanity gets a stranglehold on the region pirates and raiders operating from it will be greatly reduced. However, it would mean the council was effectively subsidizing humanities expansion which would not look good when it came to accusations of favoritism. It would also mean the batarians getting even angrier, but they barely factored in at this point.
She looked over at Valern who gave a nod and though Sparatus was clearly reluctant he also nodded.
"That can be made to happen, but the Alliance must again do its part. You want help patrolling the traverse? Stop any plans for ultra-heavy cruisers." She said.
The ambassador froze for a moment. He clearly had not been expecting further demands. However, he quickly regained his composure.
"I believe I can convince my government to forego any possible plans they may have."
"We would need assurances ambassador. We would need an official declaration from the Alliance announcing they are abandoning the plan." Said Valern.
"Announcing that we are foregoing pans for further armaments while we are currently under attack is politically impossible. But I am sure we would be willing to make such an announcement after the current crisis is averted. But, if we are to give such a guarantee, we would need you to give your own."
"We will make an announcement that we will be leaving peacekeeping forces in the region as soon as you make your announcement ambassador. In the meantime, this business with Saren remains strictly secret." Said Sparatus.
"Of course, councilor. You have my word." The ambassador said before excusing himself. When he left the room Sparatus turned to her and Valern.
"Tevos, I know we had our differences when it comes the Alliance, but these humans are getting a bit too confident. The ambassador walks in here and demands our help while threatening to cause a scandal if he doesn't get his way. We may have gotten concessions, but we have to make it clear things cannot go on like this."
"Agreed." Said Tevos. "Some measures will need to be taken. But that can be decided later. We have an announcement to get ready for do we not?" She said her goodbyes to the other councilors and went to her own private chambers.
The human situation was getting complicated, but there were plenty of opportunities in it. Sparatus was right. The Alliance could not be allowed to get it into their head they can blackmail the council without repercussions. Still, it was best to let the turians take the front seat in dishing out the punishments. It would remind humanity just how valuable a large protector is and push them even further into the arms of the asari. If played right this situation could increase humanities strength while further making them more dependent on the asari through economic and diplomatic ties.
A militarily strong humanity tied dependent on the asari was always the goal of asari policy. As both a buffer between civilization and the batarians but also as a counterweight to the quasi alliance of the turians and salarians. The salarians tended to favor the turians in exchange for military protection. It was a sad fact that while money talks guns talk louder, and the turians excelled with guns.
In the long term, which was what an asari always focused on, this commotion with Saren would be a mere steppingstone to the eventual goal.
Shepard, Council Chambers, Citadel.
Shepard stood before the council. A good way before it and a quite a bit below it as well. This arrangement was more ostentatious than most medieval kings were, but Shepard didn't particularly mind. A bit of pageantry was expected from a historic moment. Especially considering that the historic moment was carefully crafted political theater. A bit of theater vitally important to human advancement but theater, nonetheless. Despite the being in the center of the theater Shepard paid little attention to what was being said.
Most spectres weren't announced to the galaxy, and he would have preferred it to be the same with him, but the Alliance and Council wanted a show for obvious reasons. Unfortunately, this would make him even more well-known than he already was, which was too much for his liking, but he had resigned himself to that fate a long time ago. Soon enough, the last councilor finished his speech and Shepard stepped up to take the oath of office. It was a very short and simple one.
"I swear to protect and maintain galactic stability, by any and all means. So, help me God." He added the last part himself, although it wasn't unprecedented. Short additions were allowed so long as they didn't change the substance of the actual oath.
What followed was an ovation from the stands. With particularly loud cheering coming from the human dominated section. Eventually the cheers died down and Tevos spoke.
"You know your mission, spectre agent Shepard."
"You know your duty, Spectre agent Shepard." Added Sparatus.
"Go forth and fullfill it, spectre agent Shepard." Finished Valern.
Another round of cheers came from the rafters. With the humans again being extra exuberant. Shepard didn't wait for it to end though. He left the stage and went into one of the nearby buildings. He was not about to pass through the main exit and be swamped by the press. Nor was he about to wait until everyone currently watching on the rafters fill up this side exit. He hurriedly made his way to the elevator, which took him down to a waiting skycar. He got in and flew the short distance to the embassy. Normally he didn't mind walking but right now the risk of getting swamped was too great. Again, he took an alternate entrance to avoid the people in the lobby. Blessedly he made his way to the room he needed without being sidelined.
As he entered the room and saw Tali sitting on a couch drinking something through a straw. She was watching the news talking about the recent spectre confirmation. She looked up at him with surprise or shock, it was hard to tell with the faceplate. She looked at the monitor then back at him.
"Uhh… Commander I mean Spectre I wasn't expecting you…" She started while turning off the news broadcast and taking out the straw from her helmet.
"I hope I'm not interrupting anything Important. I wanted to see how you were doing after our abrupt separation. I hope they've been treating you well?" He asked.
"Yes, although they just stuffed me in this room without talking about what's going to happen in the future." She said.
"Apologies, but there were pressing issues that needed to be dealt with."
"Yes, I noticed. Congratulations." She paused while wringing her hands. "I wanted to thank you again for saving my life."
"Think nothing of it. Your evidence is the main reason I have my current position. I should be thanking you." He said, removing his peaked cap and taking a seat at the table. "There is another reason I came here. I wanted to talk with you about your future."
The quarian cocked her head to the side and sat opposite him.
"That's good I wanted to ask you something." She said.
"Well then, you first." He said gesturing for her to continue.
"I want to join you. I know as much about the geth as anyone else and I'm sure you'll need someone with such talents."
Shepard couldn't help but smile. "That is what I wanted to ask you about as well." He said. But before the quarian could reply he continued.
"I want to be clear as to what this will entail. This will be extremely dangerous. Even as a specialist I will invariably have to take you into dangerous territory. I cannot guarantee your safety. There is a significant chance you will never finish your pilgrimage or see the fleet again. If you're unsure about this don't agree. You have other options, just ask Udina for money, buy some used starship or rare resources and go back." He was trying to get this young quarian to understand the danger she was jumping into. The quarian in turn gave him a serious stare.
"Spectre Shepard, the pilgrimage is not just about resources. It is about proving you are responsible enough to be a full adult in the fleet in which every single person matters and no one can be a burden. Who would I be if I refused to help stop something that threatens all life in the galaxy?"
Shepard smiled, he had to admire her fervor. He handed her a datapad.
"This is the conditions of your employment, along with the rate of pay. Follow the instructions on where to go, and what to do."
The quarian read the document. When she got to the part describing pay, she looked up at Shepard.
"Are you sure about this? She asked hesitantly.
"Of course, the demand for your rare and exceptional skills has drastically shot up. Besides I am asking a lot of you. Again, this will not be easy or safe."
"I accept. Thank you" She said. Gratitude apparent in her voice. It was clear she had not expected to be paid for this, which was depressing.
"There is no need to thank me." Shepard said getting up and putting his cap back on. "I'm afraid I must leave, there are still many things I need to take care of. Everything you need to know is in that datapad and my contact info is also there if you need to contact me."
He took a few steps before turning around. "A word to the wise. When Udina finally talks to you don't tell him you signed on with me. He'll use it against you. Just say you want money; he'll pay handsomely to ensure he never has to see or deal with you again."
With those parting words he left to deal with other issues.
He walked out and back to the skycar. This time he flew towards c-sec. He was sorely tempted to break every known traffic law but decided the hassle wasn't worth it. He could only imagine Udina getting an aneurism explaining why the first human spectre got in trouble with the law on the first day. Either way Shepard didn't want the spotlight on him and while he could never truly get out of it, he didn't have to embrace it by acting out. Even if it would be fun. So, he followed all the laws and parked in the designated area.
Shepard walked into the building and caught the attention of the first officer he saw. A tall lanky turian.
"I need to talk to your captain."
The turian looked puzzled and after looking Shepard up and down, taking in the Alliance uniform he spoke.
"If you need to file a complaint or anything else there are official channels. I can direct you to someone who can help you."
"Spectre Agent John Shepard needs to talk to your captain." Shepard said with a slightly more forceful tone.
The turian narrowed his eyes slightly before the flew open when the recognition struck. The turian immediately straightened as if he were addressing a superior officer.
"I'll take you to him sir." He said, before turning and Leading Shepard down a corridor. They got a few stares from the other officers. Some even recognized him. It was all a bit much; Shepard had been famous/infamous before, but things generally died down after a while. He somehow doubted this would die down anytime soon. They made it to the captain's office and entered.
"Sir I have a spectre agent here to see you." The turian said.
The turian captain froze for a moment in his seat before regaining composure.
"Thank you Vellus you may leave." He said while standing up. "I had heard about your induction Spectre but I had no idea you would be coming here. Is there anything I can help you with?"
Shepard took off his cap and placed it on the table while sitting down. The captain followed suit.
"I understand you're the captain in charge of the precinct investigating the death of Fist?" Shepard asked.
"Yes… a professional hit. We're unsure of why or who. Fist seemed to have had his whole gang in the club, but they were all gunned down, extremely gruesomely. Is this matter tied to something more important?" The captain asked hesitantly.
"The way I see it captain." Shepard said in a relaxed tone. "Fist got what was coming to him. No need to waste good money trying to find out why or who. Also, with Fist dead I don't think that doctor will need protective custody. You should release her but having an extra patrol near her clinic won't hurt."
The captain blinked a few times piecing it together. Shepard could tell the man was going through various scenarios in his head trying to get to the bottom of what was going on.
"Spectre Agent." He said slowly. "Are you ordering me to drop the investigation of Fist's death?"
"Yes." Shepard said frankly. "I can assure you captain that whoever killed Fist got what was coming to him. The public will not be put in any harm." he said trying to allay any concerns the captain may have.
"Well, it's not like I can refuse. I'll end the investigation." Said the captain, slightly dejected.
Shepard had expected a fiercer opposition. Perhaps the captain had concluded Shepard was involved or he simply didn't want to pick a fight over this. Either way was fine with Shepard as long as the investigation was over. It was best for everyone, c-sec didn't spend time solving something that didn't need solving, and he didn't get c-sec poking their noses in his business.
"I appreciate your understanding in this matter captain." He reached for his cap to leave, but the captain's next words stopped his arm.
"What should we do with the suspect?"
Shepard blinked in confusion.
"What suspect?" He asked.
"We picked up a krogan not far from the club. A massive brute armed like a one-man army. We can't place him at the scene yet but considering this krogan's past as a bounty hunter and the professionalism of the job he is our prime suspect."
So, the krogan got caught? Shepard thought. He was tempted to just tell the captain to release the krogan. After all, even if he was there to kill Fist, he didn't actually do it. It was the easiest option. However, a slightly crazy idea formed in Shepard's head, and now he had the authority to follow through on it. Shepard finished putting on his cap.
"I want everything you have on this krogan, and I want to talk to him."
Urdnot Wrex, c-sec interrogation room, citadel.
Wrex sat in his chair glaring at the turian officer questioning him. He found that most races find it disconcerting when a large krogan glares at them sideways with a head as large as their torso. Annoyingly and to his credit this turian remained calm and continued his pointless questioning. Wrex sat quiet; he had been through this before.
They could not prove he killed Fist or even did anything illegal. He didn't even bother denying anything. If he did, they might get him on lying to them even if it was something innocuous, it could lead to conviction because juries see a large krogan that provably lied and decide that he's guilty on that alone. All he did was ask for a lawyer and clam up. Sooner or later, they would have to release or press charges. Since they had nothing, they would release him eventually and until then he waited and glared. Even if it wasn't as amusing as it usually was.
The door suddenly opened and another turian with a human walked in.
"Garrus the interrogation is over." Said the new turian in a voice that brooked no argument. His interrogator looked up to protest, but a stern look stopped the words from forming. With a look of disgust, the interrogator got up and left, along with the other turian leaving the human.
The human took off his hat placed it on the table, sat down and began reading a datapad. Wrex didn't particularly care whether it was an interrogation tactic or not, he had plenty of experience of just sitting being bored. He spent the time analyzing the newcomer. Firstly, he wore an Alliance uniform which was strange. Why was the Alliance interested? Did Fist have something to do with them? The second most striking feature was the white hair.
Wrex knew enough about these humans to know that white hair was a sign of advanced age and that unlike the asari it wasn't something just anyone could expect to reach eventually. He had heard stories of the human homeworld and it wasn't for the weak or timid. Whoever this man was he deserved to be taken seriously. Still, it didn't mean Wrex would talk to this human any more than he did to the turian.
"Urdnot Wrex." The human finally spoke after a minute or two. "You have an impressive resume even without the full picture. I mean there are literally centuries you're unaccounted for in this c-sec file."
The human paused while Wrex stayed silent. He was unsure of where this human was going with this.
"I applaud you for your silence. It is in fact the best course of action in your predicament. If we were in a less civilized portion of the galaxy things would be different, but as it stands for you: silence is golden. Let me lay the cards out on the table. I know you didn't kill Fist because I did. I remember you in that hallway. I am here to get you released, but before I do I have one question for you. How much do you charge for your services?"
Wrex narrowed his eyes. This human might be telling the truth regarding Fist. He seemed roughly the height of the man in the hallway and at least knew what happened. The rest seemed rather suspect. The Alliance to his knowledge had little influence with c-sec and he doubted it would cash in some political capital to help him. Yet he couldn't see what the point of making these claims, was this some weird way to get him to confess to something? He played it safe and kept silent.
"You don't trust me." The human stated "Fair enough I also wouldn't trust me in your situation. I doubt I can get you to talk, and I am certain I cannot get you to talk candidly. So, here's what's going to happen. I am going to get you released. Should you be interested in a well-paying job give me a call."
With that the human placed the datapad in front of Wrex, put on his hat and left. Leaving Wrex rather confused about the whole situation.
However, the strange human's words proved true and not long after a few angry looking c-sec officers entered the room. They uncuffed him, brought him out of the station and gave him his weapons and armor back. Over the course of a few minutes Wrex had gone from being interrogated to being released, leaving wrex perplexed at who exactly this human was. When he read the datapad and it all became clear.
John Shepard spectre agent.
Wrex had never heard of a human spectre but it would certainly explain the rapid release. It didn't explain what this spectre wanted. Dealing with spectres could be dangerous but refusing to deal with them could also be dangerous. Wrex was torn between leaving that instant or calling.
Garrus Vakarian, c-sec precinct, citadel.
Garrus sat in his office wondering about the situation. He had just been kicked out of the interrogation room and the captain refused to say why, or who that human was. He asked around and found out that the human was the newest council spectre. This raised several questions. Why induct a human spectre now? Why was this spectre interested in the krogan?
That krogan and those two humans he saw at the doctor's office were the only links he had to the quarian. He was guessing they were working together. He pondered the subject until an epiphany came. He had been operating under the assumption that some other gang or perhaps someone working for Saren had killed Fist. However, that was wrong. He could see it now. It all made sense, why this spectre was interested in the krogan, why there is a human spectre now. It answered all the unanswered questions he had, it all fit.
He got up and ran, there was still a chance he could help bring Saren to justice. Unfortunately, the spectre had already finished with the krogan and was in the process of leaving.
"Spectre Agent John Shepard!" He called out.
Instead of ignoring him like he imagined a spectre would act. The spectre stopped in the doorway and turned to look at him with scrutinizing green eyes. Garrus ignored the stares his fellow officers were giving him. This wasn't the first time he forced a meeting with someone of a higher rank.
"Something you need officer?" The spectre asked in a polite and level tone.
"I want to help. I know who you're going after, and I want to help." Garrus said after catching up.
The spectre tilted his head towards the door then turned. Garrus followed.
"Who Am I after?" Asked the spectre.
"Saren Arterius."
The human smiled and turned around beckoning him to follow.
"Do you know what an elevator pitch is?" The spectre asked while getting inside a skycar.
"I think I understand the meaning." Said Garrus getting into the passenger side. Thankfully this was one of those human idioms that was easier to understand. even if they weren't in an elevator.
"The floor is yours." The spectre said as he lifted off.
That idiom wasn't as obvious, but Garrus took it as a sign to begin. His mind reeled for a strategy; he hadn't prepared anything for this moment. He decided that there were two main points he had to get across. That he was highly skilled and would be useful, and that he was highly motivated.
"I've served in the turian military for years and have several commendations for bravery and excellence. I was also the c-sec officer assigned to investigate Saren Arterius. It didn't take long for me to become convinced he was hiding something, but c-sec regulations held me back. I decided to ignore regulations and learned about the quarian, but you got to her first. I was unable to prove Saren guilty, but I am committed to bringing him to justice. He's a disgrace to all turians and must be brought down."
"And how do you know I am looking for Saren or that he's even been proven guilty?" Asked the spectre. While driving unbearably slowly. Garrus would have thought a spectre would be more willing to break some traffic laws.
"It's the only thing that makes sense. It answers why you're suddenly a spectre. Why Fist was killed. Where the quarian is. What was that krogan was doing, and why you came to the station. My working theory is that since you were on Eden Prime, when the Alliance found out the council wasn't taking it seriously, they set you to the task. You killed Fist with eh help of that krogan and found the quarian. The council made you a spectre after you presented the evidence and sent you after him. Finally, you came here to release the krogan who helped you."
The human gave a knowing smile. "You're very close but ever so slightly off. I was a spectre candidate for months now. I wasn't made a spectre out of the blue. Secondly, I don't know that krogan."
"So, we picked up a random krogan who just happened to be walking by armed to the teeth?" Garrus asked confused.
"No, that krogan was definitely there to kill Fist. I just got to him first. We met in a hallway at the club then parted ways like ships at sea."
"Why did you release him?" asked Garrus slightly confused.
"Because he didn't do it and I doubt you would have gotten enough evidence to convict. I just saved c-sec some time. That however is secondary now. The main question is what rate of pay are you looking for?"
It was a completely unexpected question. Garrus hadn't even considered pay at all. After sitting in stunned silence for a moment he responded.
"This isn't about money for me. I would do it for free."
The human grinned. "Perhaps, but I can't in good conscious let you do that. How much are you asking for?"
Money was the furthest thing from his mind, so Garrus said. "Anything you feel is fair."
"Good. You can start now, do quarian and turians eat the same food?"
Once again, the conversation took an unexpected turn. "Yes, but I believe the quarian food needs to be specially packaged to not introduce contaminants into the suit." Relaying the knowledge, he learned back at the academy when they were teaching about the various races one encounters on the citadel.
The human handed him a credit chit, and parked the skycar in the nearest place he could find.
"I want you to go pack your things and drop them off at the Normandy. It's docked in the Alliance dock near c-sec. Then I need you to the human embassy and pick up a quarian named Tali Zorah. Go and buy these specially packaged quarian rations. Don't worry about Turian food we have plenty. Lastly This Saren issue is still secret, so I expect you to keep quiet on the details."
Garrus took the chit and asked. "Is there a budget for rations?" This human seemed concerned about money, so Garrus played it safe.
The human simply grinned and said, "Waste nothing but money." And with those words the two parted to go do their own things.
Shepard, wards, Citadel.
Shepard parted ways with the earnest young turian officer. Shepard remembered him of course. Both from the briefings and from the clinic. It was good to see that the c-sec investigator had actually gotten somewhere. Shepard didn't particularly need the turian. At least not like he needed the quarian. Still, this Garrus might prove helpful, and Shepard could do what he wanted now. Shepard thought Garrus deserved a real chance of getting Saren. Shepard was glad to help, too few people get what they deserved in this galaxy. So long as Garrus was an asset and not a hindrance he could stay.
He was travelling by skycar to his next destination when a c-sec squad car pulled up behind him signaled him to land. Shepard was livid at the interruption; he specifically followed all traffic laws to avoid this. Landing he was prepared to give a scolding to whatever incompetent rookie that pulled him over when out of the car stepped a person not dressed in c-sec attire.
Seeing the person who got out Shepard count help but reverse his attitude. He yelled out the window. "When did you get demoted?"
The new arrival smiled at the good-natured ribbing and waved the squad car away. She went around to the passenger side of Shepard's vehicle and got in.
"Good to see you Tela, how have you been?" Shepard said as the asari spectre sat down.
"It's been a roller-coaster, I finish up a mission and then find out a spectre is getting kicked out. Then I find out you're in. It's been exciting."
"You can say that again, how'd you find me anyway?"
"Oh please, I just asked c-sec. All I had to do was make a call. You had just left their station. Video surveillance saw to take off. All I had to do was get in a squad car and have them take me to you."
"So, you hijack a police force to find a friend?"
"Come on Shepard you're a spectre now. You speak with the authority of the council. You're arguably tied with the other spectres for the second highest rank in the galaxy. If you want to hijack a police force you can. Besides what's a few officers time worth anyways? Not like they were doing anything important." She turned her thumb towards the back seat. "Where you're turian friend?"
"Dropped him off when our business was concluded."
"Good, we're going to the presidium."
"What for?" Asked Shepard
"You still have a lot to learn about the specifics of being a spectre. Usually, a new spectre is assigned to help the spectre who did their final evaluation for some time, but your case is special."
"Did the council assign you to babysit me?" He asked slightly annoyed at the prospect.
"Oh no in fact they've been adamant about you doing on your own, and that's not exactly a good thing. You've been given a rare and extraordinary difficult task. Hunting down a spectre is not easy. Half the corps has probably asked the council to reassign the task to them."
"Did you?" Asked shepard.
Tela seemed affronted by the suggestion. "Of course not, I'm a friend. Although I did ask to be assigned to the investigation along with you. The council refused, which is strange. You don't send one spectre after another spectre; you send a team. If I were forced to guess, I'd say circumstances of your induction annoyed them greatly. I might go so far as to say they want you to fail and then have someone else clean up the mess."
"I'm sure at least one of them does." He spoke. "Anyways, why are you here? Just to give me a warning?"
"I'm your friend I'm here to help. Show you some of the stuff that Nihlus didn't get the chance to. And to celebrate your promotion."
The two sat in silence for a moment as the skycar going along with all the others when Tela spoke up.
"Shepard you drive like a senile elcor. Why are you going so slow?"
"I don't want to get pulled over."
Tela's eyebrow shot up at that. "Who cares? You're a spectre, laws literally don't apply to you."
"True but it's still a hassle. I either pull over and yell at an officer who had no idea who he's pulling over or I don't and get into a high-speed chase. Either way it'll be in the next news report. 'First human spectre berates helpless c-sec officer just doing their job.' Or 'First human spectre gets into high-speed chase on the citadel.' Then I have to deal with angry comments from Udina about how I make his job harder. I'd rather just follow the rules while I'm here."
Tela shook her head "Damm, I don't envy you. Having everything you do reflect back onto your entire race. Everyone counting on you to make them look good. "
"It isn't the first time." He said.
"True but I doubt it gets better with age. If anything, I imagine it gets even more grating." As they entered the presidium she pointed to a spot on the map and spoke. "Land here."
The spot was in a quiet part of the presidium with very few people walking around. After landing and getting out they walked to a nondescript elevator that unlike others did not have a sign saying where it went. After getting in Shepard asked.
"So, is this the homebase for the spectres?"
"Yeeessss…" She said hesitantly. "Although officially it's called the spectre offices."
"Why the hesitation?" He asked.
"You'll see."
A short elevator ride they came out into a relatively short hallway. Tela pointed to the first door on the left and spoke.
"Down there we have the quartermaster, see him before you leave. Best guns and armor in the galaxy."
At the end of the hallway, they passed through another door.
"Here we have the intel and communication room. If you need a get ahold of someone this is probably the best place in the galaxy. QECs to anywhere important and your call is instant priority for whoever you are calling." Pointing to some terminals she continued.
"These are connected to the council's databases, and you have clearance for just about everything." She paused and gave him a sly smile. "Feel like proving or disproving any conspiracy theories?"
Shepard thought about it. There were definitely some things he would be interested to know but nothing pressing so he settled on "No."
"When I was inducted, I spent a good hour just looking stuff up." Tela said.
"I'll look it up later."
"Ahh so there is something you want to know. What is it?"
"Me, I want to know what they now about me."
Tela gave a knowing smile. "I think every spectre has at least once looked over their own file. Honestly It less then they would like. They actually approached me to shed light on the situation. Apparently, anything much more than 200 years ago and they know next to nothing"
"Good." He stated.
"Something to hide?" She prodded.
"Plenty to hide. Although being honest the reason I'm not more open about my past is because if I was people would never stop bothering me about it. I can just imagine the press pestering me: Did you know your actions a thousand years ago are considered barbaric and brutal by modern standards." He said the last bit in a mocking tone.
"You'd think that with such long life-spans people would be more understanding." Tela opined.
"Yes and no. The people with a few centuries behind them generally are more understanding but there is a caveat, with long lifespans come long memories and long grudges. A man might be willing to shrug and say 'that's a bad thing he did, but it happened long ago' concerning someone who played a small part in an atrocity that happened on the other side of the planet. However, that same man will drop dead before he does the same for a someone who took part in an atrocity done to his people. Another reason old humans tend not to talk about it. At least old humans who like me spent their lives fighting." Sheaprd said. It was a sad fact that dealing with the past was much more difficult when the people from the past were still alive.
"Afraid someone's coming for revenge?" Tela asked leaning on the wall.
"It's been known to happen. Another reason I'd rather not talk about it. I don't think the things I did were particularly gruesome but not everyone will agree. After all the hegemony placed a bounty on me after what happened on torfan."
"Well, you won't get any moral condemnation from me. I've done plenty and I don't even have the 'it was the norm back then' excuse." After a short pause she continued "Moving on, what do you think of the place?"
Sheard looked around perplexed. "Is that it? A high-tech coms room, some databases and a quartermaster? I expected more, perhaps a training facility."
Tela shook her head. "Nothing else is really needed or desired. A spectre must be good enough before they are inducted. There is no special training we go through. Nor are there any scheduled training exercises. Most of us would be insulted if the council decided to create one. It would imply we're not good enough."
It made sense it's its own way he supposed. Spectres are generally solo operatives. "All right well off to the quartermaster then."
A short walk back down the hallway eneded with them being greeted by a stern older looking turian.
"Spectre agent Shepard I was wondering when you would come down here. And Spectre Vasir it's good to see you again. Have you come for anything special?"
"No just showing the basics to the new guy. His appointment was strange. He hasn't gone through the usual introductions." She said. The turian turned to Shepard.
"Well in that case I'm here to help in any way I can. I am Manius Narnus the spectre office quartermanster. Here we have the best weapons and armor in the galaxy. We also have bombs, grenades, and everything else you need. We can get just about anything you want done. If you want a skycar modded to drop bombs, we can do that. Some special requests might take longer to perform though. As for the basics." He pulled out a black rifle and a datapad from under his desk and placed them on the table. "I have taken the liberty of getting some spectre gear out from storage in anticipation of your arrival."
Shepard picked up the datapad and read the specifications. He got caught on one particular snippet of information.
"Is this real?" He asked, disbelieving his eyes.
"Yes," Replied the quartermaster. "These are the best weapons in the galaxy."
That was all well and good but that was not what Shepard was referring to.
"I'm talking about the price. Is this some a job I have to pay for?" He asked incredulously. Behind him Tela let out a laugh.
"Ahh that. Spectres are paid exceedingly well, with the caveat that they are expected to pay for their expenses out of this sum."
Shepard looked to Tela for an explanation. She shrugged and spoke. "The council really likes to turn a blind eye to our activities. As such they don't want expense reports from us. They don't want to know one of us bought a bomb right before a refinery on a batarian planet blew up. They give us a lump sum and we're free to do with it as we please. It's very generous, much more then I ever spent on a mission. Besides it's not like money's an issue for you, do you even know how much the alliance pays you?"
Shepard decided to deflect the question because the answer was yes. He wasn't a penny pincher by any means, but he did count every credit. Which did not reflect well on him, at least in his own eyes. "I get that but why do we pay for gear the council gives us?"
Again, Tela responded with a shrug. "Call it a spectre rite of passage, or just view it as a quirk. If there's a reason no one ever told me."
Shepard looked to the quartermaster who merely shrugged as well. Paying for your equipment wasn't unheard of for Shepard especially in times past but he never would have guessed the council would require it.
"I'm assuming only spectres can use these?" He asked.
"Yes, they are biometrically locked to the agent."
Shepard scrolled through the inventory of goods offered, there were a vast array of separate models, of weapons and armor. As he searched a thought occurred to him.
"Do you customize weapons and armor?" He asked.
"Of course. Like I said we can handle almost any request, but some more exotic ones take time. I am not here only to sell basic armor and weapons."
"In that case I'll take this with me." He said waving the datapad, "And come back with my decision later."
"As you wish spectre there is someone here at all hours." The quartermaster said putting the rife away.
"Got something special in mind?" Asked Vasir as they walked out.
"Yes, but I want to keep it close to the chest for now." He said. Trying to shut down that line of inquiry. He was still unsure if he would even follow through.
"Fine." She said thankfully dropping it. "Anyways we got one more thing to do, celebrate your promotion."
Shepard didn't particularly want to. Anywhere they went people were bound to recognize him. He had successfully evaded the media for this long and he had no desire to break that streak. Tela must have noticed the thoughts play out on his face because she said.
"Don't worry I'll keep you safe from the press. In fact, you should not worry about it at all. We'll be celebrating in private."
"Huh, and how are we going to do that?" He asked.
"Simple we'll use your place." She replied. As they got into the elevator.
Shepard should have known. Tela was never shy of invoking spectre privilege to do whatever she wanted, and that attitude occasionally leaked over into their friendship. She sometimes did things without consulting him first. Still, he couldn't fault her at least in this case. As far as he knew she didn't have a house on the citadel, and if he had been given the option, he would have chosen the place himself. It was the most private place he could reasonably expect on the citadel.
"Alright what are we doing?" He asked as they left the building.
Tela gave him a quizzical look. "What we always do. Have a nice meal and drink, you smoke that narcotic. I make fun of you for doing it. Eventually you convince me to play that board game you love so much."
Shepard smiled; something exorbitant was never his style. As Tela herself once said 'Wild parties are in the past for both of us. I'm not a maiden and you're not, whatever the human equivalent is. Both of us get more than enough excitement in our jobs.' A good meal with good friends was more than enough for both of them.
He focused on her last sentence. "I thought you liked chess?" He had taught Tela to the game after she saw Shepard playing it one time. Since then, they played it every so often.
"I do." She confirmed. "it's like something out of a time capsule. Extremely simple to learn and yet fiendishly complicated to master. However, playing against you is rather annoying. You've probably been playing for as long as I've been alive. We play ten moves and I'm already in dead lost."
"Who's catering?" He asked, changing the subject. In truth though it was slightly annoying for him as well. He very much enjoyed the social element of the game over an actual board instead of online. Yet was good enough that any match against friends was unfair, and he didn't have time to find good opponents in person.
"I've convinced a certain restaurant that doesn't do deliveries to make an exception. Won't be as good as eating at the restaurant but it'll keep you from the press you despise so much." She said slightly teasingly.
"Right now, the press is your enemy as well as mine." He retorted. "The last thing you want is your face plastered on every screen in the galaxy with rumors flying about why this asari is in a restaurant with the new spectre."
Tela let out a short laugh. "Goddess I can just hear my kids pestering me." She said rubbing her forehead. "Wondering if their mother has launched a new relationship without informing them."
"How are they by the way?" He asked. He had never met them or their father. The turian had died before Shepard had even met Tela.
"Oh, they're fine. You know how it is: adult children thinking they know more than you. Maidens thinking, they have it all figured out. Knowing so little, they don't know how little they know. Other than that, they're great even though neither felt like following their parent's footsteps."
Shepard knew very well what she was talking about. The young tended to act as if it is new to them, it's new to everyone.
"What about you though?" Tela asked. "Anything new going on in your life? Other than the obvious?"
"No, everything got overshadowed by the spectre nomination. It's been rather dull otherwise. By the way I got one more person to invite." He said as the sat down and took off.
Tela raised an eyebrow. "Who?"
"Captain Anderson, an old friend. You've met before on Thessia. He was the commander of my team."
Tela cocked her head to the side remembering the past events. "Ah yes I remember, well one more person won't hurt." Tela said.
"He's one of my oldest friends. And as luck would have it, he's here on the citadel as well." Shepard said as he tapped out a message for the captain to meet him at his place.
The duo slowly made their way down from the presidium into the wards with Tela taking the occasional potshot at Shepard's slow, law-abiding driving. Eventually they landed and made there way into the building.
"What's with the decoration?" Tela asked after the short tour Shepard gave her.
"I gave the decorators the theme of early human space exploration. I didn't decorate the place myself. I don't spend enough time here to do that." He replied while opening the small box he bought in preparation for this day.
Tela noticed the box and the contents Shepard was pulling out of it. "I never understood the concept of smoking to get a high. Always thought there were better ways to go about it." She said, as Shepard lit up one of the cigars.
At this moment the doorbell rang, and Shepard went to answer it. The doors opened to reveal Anderson, who took in the sight of Shepard still in his dress blues smoking.
"Already started the celebrations Shepard?" He said smiling. Turning to Tela he said. "And hello to you as well madame Spectre."
The captain stepped inside, and the trio began the festivities. It was a quiet evening full of reminiscences and toasts to a hopeful future. Even the threat of the reapers that had eaten away at Shepard during the day and the nightmare visions that still plagued him were overshadowed by the warm food and good company. Shepard was glad that of all the things that changed, this stayed constant. A good meal with fast friends was as comfortable and pleasurable now as it was a thousand years ago.
Communique To the Prime Minister of the Human Systems Alliance. Immediately after the council meeting
Dear Minister
I am writing to inform you on the development of the Eden Prime issue. I have made great stride in pushing our interests. Saren has been proven a traitor, and the Council has agreed to send a fleet into the traverse. On a side note, this will undoubtedly irritate the Batarians and we must be ready for their response. The council has asked/demanded that we keep Saren's involvement a secret. This was not unexpected as per my last communique. I have extracted a promise of continued council presence in travers for a period of five years in exchange for our silence. However, they have also demanded our cessation of any plans to build ultra-heavy cruisers. In light of current events they agreed to postpone such an announcement until after the current crisis is over.
Minister I must try to convey the absolute necessity of agreeing to this. The ultra-heavy cruiser program has done great harm to our galactic standing, and we cannot rely on the council's lenience forever. I have moved mountains in maintaining positive relations, but that program casts a shadow on every interaction with other diplomats. If we continue down the current path, we will pay a heavy price in the long run. We cannot afford to become galactic pariahs any more than the Batarians. There are plenty of ways to increase our military capability that do not include skirting the bounds of galactic law.
Sincerely,
Ambassador of the Humans Systems Alliance to the Citadel,
Donnel Udina.
Reply.
Dear Ambassador
I must congratulate you and Commander Shepard on your achievements. Rest assured we will not ignore the Batarian threat. In regard to the council's demand to cease ultra-heavy cruiser program. I feel it is time to admit the infeasibility of this program. Considering the reaction, we got for merely planning I have no doubt any actual construction will be prohibitively costly in terms or possible sanctions and ruined relations. I am appreciative of the opportunity to get off this train that has strained relations with every other government in the galaxy. If ceasing this program gets us council assistance, then at least it was not a total waste. I agree that our further military development should be focused on the avenues not forbidden.
Sincerely
Prime Minister of the Human Systems Alliance
Theodore Smith
Author's Notes.
1: As always please review. Constructive criticism is always welcomed. Questions or suggestions are also always welcomed, and appreciated. Apologies for time between chapters. Hope you enjoy.