Mass Effect: The Iron Heart of Man

by Apollonir

[AU] The Illusive Man said that salvation comes with a cost. When corruption seeps into the galaxy, when centuries of status quo suddenly breaks in a mere decade, when blood's spilled among the stars like never before, when extinction looms over civilization, when morality is merely a shade... salvation can only come with sacrifice. [AU First Contact War & Reaper War; GRAPHIC]

14. Phantom of the Opera II

NOTE1: Hello folks! This is more of an administrative announcement and I want to get it out of the way ASAP. I will soon start an internship and that will further affect the update speed. I know I updated quick the past year but that was mostly because I had some chapters written beforehand and plenty of free time. Now the updates are rather slow, as you can see. But I love the ideas I have for this story and want to give you quality (and quantity) more than anything, even if I'm piss poor compared to other authors. Because I want to add quantity to that quality updates tend to pop up not on a regular basis. Otherwise you'd just end up reading lots of 3k long chapters.

NOTE2: I hope you will enjoy the fourteenth chapter of this story. Even though I feel like I could have done a lot better… my conscience doesn't give me peace. It's all like shouting at me "You haven't updated in over a month. Post it! Update! You owe your readers!" and it chipped at my patience and made me feel guilty. So… here it is :D Enjoy!

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Chapter 14: The Phantom of the Opera II: Iron Hearts I

---

"To hell with Humanity… They ruined centuries of work."

(Councilor Tevos Belsari on her deathbed)

---

"The very moment they set foot on the Citadel I knew something was going to happen. But not on the level it did. I wasn't there, but I watched the live broadcast. It might not seem like that to the average citizen, but the Humans outright proclaimed victory over the Council with their entrance. The message was clear to those able to read it: 'We're here as victors and nothing less than equals. Remember that!' An attitude I can respect and hate at the same time, since Turians are like that too."

(General Septimus Oraka on Humanity)

---

Citadel, Presidium

The Singing Maiden Bar

The Singing Maiden, one of the oldest establishments of its type on the Citadel, looked no different than usual. Renowned for the great Asari voices who used to sing here from time to time, not that they don't have singers anymore, it became a local favorite of many residents of the station. Most of them are talented maidens. The bar is a business that is passed down in the Kyala family.

The bar was centered near the wall on the right side of the entrance, the stage and a few poles for dancers were on the left side. Seating places and private booths were placed in between. Here it is where Wrex was now drinking a glass of ryncol. He looked like any Krogan who would pay a visit to the place for the regular dose of alcohol and a private booth with a dancer.

Wrex dumped the half full glass down his throat before motioning to one Asari to fill him up again. She walked over and smiled at him. Her skin color was a deep blue with a bit of pale blue on her face. Her walking gave the impression of limping at times, maybe due to an old wound or bone form complexion since birth. Her eyes were green and she had barely noticeable scars on her face and arms.

"You're going to drink yourself into a diplomat, Wrex?" she asked him. The old battlemaster spared her a glance before rumbling something incomprehensible from his throat. She leaned in close and whispered more than talking out loud. "It won't bode well for you to be drunk when you talk to the Humans, you know?"

"It's not that and you know it, Inira," Wrex replied. "It's more because of the reasons I want to talk to them."

"Those being..?"

The leader of Urdnot simply looked at her. "What, don't you remember? Weren't you there too?"

Inira paused. The owner of the bar suddenly felt a sense of dread push to take her over, but she relaxed. Having the experience of a few hundred years old soldier might have helped her.

"Are you…" her voice hesitating, "… are you sure about it? Nobody believed me and Nihlus when we told them. Will some newly discovered race listen to you?"

'I wouldn't have believed that either if I wasn't there. Who would've believed a junior Turian officer fresh out of the Academy and a mercenary's story about walking dead and Collectors?' Wrex thought to himself.

"You've seen what those monsters are capable of. A storm's brewing, Inira. And when the storm hits the coast, I don't want my people to be washed away by the tides. The Council hates my guts, always paranoid of what I really want. The other governments don't bate an eye at us. And we have upset too many warlords since Aralakh went into the PMC sector. Tuchanka has no friends, Tuchanka is standing alone. I need friends, Inira. We all need. I'm just kind of getting desperate… knowing what's waiting out there."

"So… Okeer really had a deal with the Collectors?" she asked.

Wrex wasn't pleased when he recalled the unpleasant memories and anger he felt. "Yeah. Now he's tresher maw shit somewhere on Tuchanka. I personally made sure of that. At least Grunt's a good Krogan to have by your side, only good thing to come to us from that bastard."

"Then you should've brought him with you. You're like a walking shooting target for quite a few organizations in Council space."

"He's better off coordinating our operations on Tuchanka. Besides, I have 900 years of experience in skull crushing."

"Cocky bastard!" the matron shot him a punch in the arm.

"Not boasting. Just stating the facts."

"Yeah, sure. So here's the news. My sister at C-Sec told me that the Humans will come in three days. Nihlus confirmed it for me through his SPECTRE channels. So you have three days to drink yourself into a diplomat!" she said and filled him up one more time. "This one's on the house."

Wrex smiled. "What's that bastard been up to recently?" he asked.

"Nihlus? Been trying to get a mission on Omega so he can look into the Collectors more but all he got was an assignment to scout for possible new SPECTREs," she answered.

"You thinking of signing up?"

She laughed at him. "It's hard to join the SPECTREs after an Asari zombie throws you like a ragdoll with her biotics and forces you into retirement and taking up the family business."

---

Unknown location

"We have lost the Asari and Desolas, but everything else is still going according to plan," a Turian's voice flanged in the darkness.

"Desolas' early demise is unfortunate and adds complications to the plan. What is the status of the station?"the booming voice questioned.

"My men are investigating. I've forwarded them the plans of the Citadel. As long as nothing interferes with their work, they will find out what is wrong with the Keepers and the Citadel."

"See that the operation is kept secret. Not every organic will perceive greatness as we do."

"I'm aware. They'll see the advantages once the Turians are elevated and they will want to join us. Every race will."

"The methods of Humanity's arrival are unexpected. If approached brashly, they will become a threat to the process of ascension. Other ascended could be killed in their uplifting. But their arrival offers you more opportunities too."

"Indeed, the recent events help us greatly. Fedorian will soon be out of the context and everything will be ready. But I also believe they'll soon be induced into the Citadel and their rebellious nature toward the natural order will be quelled."

"Organic leaders on the station hold you in high regards, Saren Arterius. Your counsel is welcomed by them. Move according to the established plan and initiate phase one toward opening the road for our return, the secondary plans are still available to implementation. And the Turians shall be the first to savor greatness; they will assume their rightful place."

"Yes… Sovereign!"

---

Palaven, Cipritine

Skycar en route to the Vakarians' apartment

Flavian was driving home with Garrus at his side in the skycar. The grey vehicle with blue lines nimbly flew through Cipritine's traffic lanes. Flavian was a proud member of Clan Vakarian, and he displayed it by adding the distinct blue markings of his clan on his face, on his children's faces and on some of his property, like his skycar.

"You know, I remember when you came to pick me up after I finished my military service to the Hierarchy," Garrus said. "Same skycar. Thought you changed it after I left for the Citadel."

"I remember. You were 21 when you left to join the Citadel Security Academy. Your mother was so broken when I broke the news that you're leaving so soon. Now look at you…" Flavian gazed at him with a thoughtful light in his sharp eyes. "I know I've been rather …expecting a lot from you. To be an exemplar for Clan Vakarian, a model Turian and all that. Especially after your mother fell on the bad side of health."

Garrus looked at his father while he kept talking. "I'm sorry, Garrus. I realized how much of a bastard I was on certain occasions only after it hit me that you might never come back home… that you'd die…"

"It's alright, father," the son said, "I wasn't the best kid either. There's a reason some called me the Turian Rebel when I was conscripted."

"And yet that wild side of yours is what makes you more unique and more adaptable."

"Alright, this talk coming from you is kind of awkward…"

They reached the apartments building and Flavian parked the skycar in the underground parking lot. Garrus went on to open the doors but he found them still locked by the driver. He turned his quizzing attention to Flavian.

"There's something I must tell you," Flavian began. "While you were thoroughly debriefed by Hierarchy Intelligence, Fedorian sent a message to Palaven Command halfway on his way to the Citadel. It's for a few eyes only and it involves you, so I trust you will keep this secret."

"From Fedorian? About me?" Garrus asked.

Flavian briefly analyzed the parking lot before speaking. "Fedorian came across some interesting discoveries. He wants somebody qualified to investigate a few leads, get in contact with a SPECTRE… dig up the Citadel for, I quote, "traitors to the Hierarchy and the Citadel"."

"So he chose me," Garrus more stated than asked to which his father confirmed.

"Your main targets will be Executor Venari Pallin and Councilor Sparatus."

"I'm still dead, am I not? Smart. Use a presumably KIA detective who knows the inner workings of C-Sec, who knows his way around the Citadel…" Garrus quipped.

"The Primarch's pretty convinced, more so than when I presented him what you sent me two months ago through the buoy network, that Sparatus is up to something. Leaked intel, changes to patrol routes, bribery, gathering political support among Hierarchy senior officers… the STG also believes that we're up to a black ops thing here due to these recent… crimes," Flavian explained.

"Well, I can't just barge in there on the Citadel like nothing happened to me. I presume you'll give me a new identity?" Garrus asked.

His father was amused. "Do you think that'll be just a few papers and a new face paint?" he asked. "No no no. We're using something the Hierarchy Intelligence came up with, something I used and improved in my last case as a detective. Hell, C-Sec thought I was a whole new person, not even bothering to consider a random benefactor as their missing detective. Garrus, you'll be a new man at the end of this. After all, we don't want them to know we're unto them, do we?" he said and decided to close the subject. "Let's go see your mother now. She's dying to see her son. But you're still MIA. Even to Sidonis and Chellick."

"Just one more thing," Garrus added. "I'll need a codename, won't I?"

Flavian spared him one nod. "Any particular name on your mind, son?" he asked him.

After a few moments of thinking, "Archangel," he said with dangerous glee.

---

Serpent Nebula, Widow System

Citadel, Council Private Chambers

"May I ask how these images came in your possession, Primarch Fedorian?" Tevos questioned.

Fedorian gave her an impassive look. "You may, Councilor. But you'll never receive an answer," he answered. He'd be damned if he let slip that Garrus even lived for the time being; not going to spill it out that he was also the one to bring these pictures back home from what they showed on Battlespace. He had to keep him being repatriated a secret for his plans. Plus, 'the Council doesn't deserve anything that is not on a need to know basis' he thought.

Everybody in the room was taken aback by the Primarch's refusal to cooperate. This was a first. He had some clashes with the Council in the past, but they were nothing too serious. Now he was very frustrated, his eyes carried the sharpness of a thousand spears. He was in the galaxy's den of vipers and he had a thing against the big shots around for the latest botch up.

'Is that a challenge, Fedorian?' Dalatrass Linron asked with her mind's voice, already considering assigning the STG another espionage mission. She was here to represent the Salariun Union in the peace talks. Every delegate was in the Council's private chambers discussing state affairs. That was until Fedorian called for them to gather around a screen to see some images.

Dalatrass Linron, Primarch Fedorian, Ambassador Irissa, Councilor Tevos, Councilor Valern and Councilor Sparatus were gathered around the screen. The Council would play the middle man, the role of the mediator. After the talks were over, and if they were over successfully, the Council would formally invite the Alliance to join the Citadel races.

"Please watch carefully, like I did when I first saw these images," Fedorian told them. "Like I'll always do."

He started the compilation. The first image appeared. It showed a column of Turian soldiers in very poor condition. They were marching as prisoners. Their armor was dirty, cracked or had missing chunks. Some had their heads or arms bandaged. One was barely walking, helping himself with a wooden stick and another Turian supporting him due to his missing right leg. The landscape was that of a desolate city street, rubble visible. Human soldiers clad in T-Kev armor with M7 Lancer assault rifles in their hands were escorting them. One was even pushing back what looked like a Human female spitting in a Turian's face. She looked outraged. There were no major reactions to this picture, the spectators were analyzing what they were seeing.

Then the screen displayed the next one. It was another Turian soldier. He was sitting down in mud, in a bomb's crater. The bottom of the crater had gathered rainwater. In the dirty water, face down, rested the eviscerated corpse of his comrade; most likely from a grenade that hit him in the pelvis. The survivor had burn marks on his face, his left mandible was missing and looked like he was in pain. Tevos cringed at the thought that somebody would rather immortalize the moment instead of doing something about the soldier's injuries and the corpse. Irissa felt something stirring in her stomach, and it wasn't butterflies of love.

Then the third picture appeared. It was another depiction of misery and loss. It was a bunch of Asari in what could easily be recognized as Eclipse standard protective gear. One was being put down on the ground by two Marines of the 5th Division, her head lacked flesh in many areas and gave way to the bones. She was obviously dead. Tevos averted her gaze from that corpse; it was too much to look at. Linron didn't fare any better, her inner voice telling her to switch her attention to something else than the dead merc. Valern and the Turians took the image of the dead better due to military training and past experiences.

Moving to the right side, they saw other victims of the white phosphorus attacks or incendiary bombs dropped by the Thunderbolt bombers. Every Asari in the picture had suffered burn injuries. Two were receiving medical care from a Marine who had a red cross inside a white circle on his armor. Their outermost layer of armor had literally melted, cooled off and hardened back.

Fedorian paused the slideshow for now. "Does this Council care to explain why were Eclipse mercenaries present at the Human colony?" he asked. Just like the Council, he had been informed about the additional manpower SPECTRE Vasir employed.

"SPECTRE Vasir took more liberties than necessary and we weren't informed about this development until Ambassador Irissa briefed us," Sparatus replied.

"Maybe more caution should be exercised with this branch of the Council," Linron said. She definitely wasn't comfortable with SPECTREs going almost rogue.

"The Council will take appropriate measures," Valern assured them. He refrained from glaring daggers at Sparatus.

Fedorian didn't say anything else. He just resumed the slideshow. They saw a Turian platoon surrendering to Marines. The soldiers were crawling out of a mostly demolished building. Then another zoomed in image of an Apocalypse tank firing its 12,7mm machinegun at a routed unit of Turians and Asari. The pavement was already littered with three bodies lying in awkward angles.

It was followed up by another depiction of broken down, injured and bandaged soldiers. It was a whole field of prisoners of war. They were crowded and forced to sit down, all the while at gunpoint of Alliance or Quarian guards. The last image showed one of the mass graves being filled with Turian soldiers. A bulldozer was immortalized as it pushed the bodies into the grave, and dirt over them.

"Primarch, what is the point of showing us these… macabre images?" Irissa finally asked. She had had enough of this. No more dinner tonight.

Fedorian stopped and closed the slideshow. He turned to face the Council and his counterparts. He fixed every single one of the Councilors, especially Sparatus, with a steely gaze.

"I hope you followed with interest," he told them. "Because for every living Turian you saw… 20 more will not be coming back home. We're all at fault. Most of all, it is me who should be blamed for giving you those ships. More than 100,000 sailors and soldiers dead in three days of battle," the Primarch grimly stated. He paused for a moment. "May the Spirits warmly embrace them, and their families honor them. For they were simple soldiers."

The message was clear. Fedorian was pissed off and he wanted to make sure the Council knew how his kinsmen were on the receiving end for the Council's little crusade.

Before anyone could throw a comeback line at Fedorian and instigate him into an argument, they were interrupted by a Turian aide. He was an officer working on the Citadel as part of the joint fleets detachment of the Hierarchy.

"Councilors, we have a situation."

They all turned at him. "What is it, Lieutenant Commander?" Fedorian asked him as he recognized his rank by uniform.

"We have a situation in the Aralakh System. A f-"

"Aralakh!?" Sparatus interrupted and turned to his colleagues. "I knew that Krogan, Urdnot Wrex, was going to spill trouble if left unchecked."

The officer stared for a moment at the Councilor with poorly concealed ill intent in his eyes before resuming his report. "As I was about to report, a fleet of ships flying under Human colors entered the system through unknown means. After cross referencing the spotted ships with what we have from the battles we concluded that it's the same fleet that attacked the Asari Republics."

Tevos and Irissa stiffened for a moment when they recalled unpleasant memories. Images of the destroyed ships, footage of the wrecked Eezo fuel station, of the damaged docks in orbit of Thessia, the crippled dreadnought and the totally destroyed dreadnought. An attack without precedence. Nobody had ever before attacked Thessia. Yet these Humans pulled it off like it was a piece of cake. The Asari Republics took a big blow to their image and certain warlords were already planning raids of their own now that word spread out. Well, those raids would be totally annihilated. A warlord's forces doesn't compare with the might of a well funded national navy.

"The majority of these ships took positions over Tuchanka. They have that huge two and a half kilometers long vessel with them. They're forcing Citadel affiliated vessels out of system," the Turian officer ended his report.

"Have they opened fire?" Valern asked.

"Not yet. But we've lost every eye in the system. Effective jamming of the space around our satellites has rendered them useless. STG assets are holding position at very long range."

"Tsch! Those pesky mammals…" Linron cursed. "They're going to push us out of Tuchanka's solar system and try to gain the Krogans on their side."

"They won't shoot," Fedorian added. "They don't strike me as the kind to break a ceasefire."

Sparatus turned to him. "We can't know for sure. They're… aliens! This might be something normal to them."

"That's a display of strength and a strategic move to secure a foothold deep enough in Citadel space," the Primarch explained. "The Krogan race is not part of the Citadel anymore, thus the Citadel powers have no jurisdiction over them. Legally, if clan Urdnot manages to unite the clans and become the representatives of Tuchanka, they can petition the Human Alliance for protection. And they are not stupid. The Humans and Quarians must know that they're mostly alone in this galaxy and are trying to make friends."

"The Krogans would make a hell of a friend if war ever broke out again between us and the Humans…" Sparatus provided. He felt a measure of satisfaction at the prospect of conflict.

"Especially if they cure the genophage," Linron said what they all feared.

"This isn't good," Tevos complained.

"I believe everybody present understands the gravity of the situation. We must not give up Aralakh to these upstarts!" the Dalatrass roars. "I recommend our fleets stand by to take action."

"If you want to take action, then you'll do so alone," Fedorian said. "I won't commit again Turian warships to yet another poorly planned operation, an operation with low chances of success. We have a ceasefire and my soldiers won't be the ones breaking it."

"Primarch Fedorian, I must protest," Irissa spoke out with raised volume. "The Turian Hierarchy has a duty before the Citadel."

"Yes, but that duty is not to break down peace talks, especially after the effort put into making the upcoming negotiation possible," Valern said and gave Fedorian a nod. Linron's eyes were filled with retorts against Valern for a second. "And there's no need to take action so far. Citadel forces retreated but they didn't have to. The Humans might have played aggressive, but wouldn't have opened fire. In-system ships were basically scared away if my reasoning is correct."

"I will pass the order for the 22nd Fleet and the 23rd Fleet to enter the Aralakh System, but they won't make a move until I say so," Fedorian said.

"Sir, the 22nd Fleet is part of the Joint Citadel Fleets," Sparatus pointed out, as if subtly trying to tell Fedorian to not take some of the Council's toys.

"Before being under Council jurisdiction with the Joint Fleets, the 22nd answers to Hierarchy official orders," Fedorian told him. "They'll redeploy into that sector, but they only move on my orders. I'm not going to let you maneuver around the political arena and end up killing more soldiers."

Fedorian wanted to pull every fleet the Hierarchy had dedicated to the Joint Fleets, from the 22nd to the 28th. But it would only give the Salarian Union further cause for concern by further painting a fake image of the Hierarchy trying to strengthen itself at the detriment of the Council in preparation for something bigger.

They all wanted to protest but held their tongues. To a certain degree, Linron sympathized with him. Her fellow colleagues on Sur'Kesh weren't happy either with how the search for the Migrant Fleet ended in a war that could have been avoided.

Irissa and Tevos didn't take it as light as Valern and Linron did. The Armali Council will be more than upset when they'll hear about this. In an event with similar precedence, the Turians were bugging out. The last time they pulled a similar stunt the Geth chased the Quarians away from Rannoch. So one could be forgiven if he or she second guessed Fedorian's decision.

"Don't get me wrong," Fedorian said, "I don't want the Krogans to rise and rampage again through the galaxy. But neither do I want to fight a war against an alien race with very low chances of winning. I assume you have been briefed on what was debated during the emergency summit on Palaven. But I'll sum it up for you: they have every advantage at the moment and we have nothing. The Aralakh incident will be handled by the Council in the negotiations. Don't give it up!"

"I assure you that the Council will do everything to prevent another Krogan conflict," Valern said.

"The STG will provide assistance. I believe stealth ships are on their way. We still have to cover the whole Traverse border. These Humans destroyed many military installations that prevented pirate incursions and we can't afford to dispatch a force larger than a small fleet," Linron said.

"Neither will the Armali Council be willing to send many Asari ships should we be forced to evict the humans out of Aralakh," Irissa said.

"Nevertheless, we should gather what fleets we can and have them on standby," Tevos said. "The situation is without precedence and we must present a united front. Against the threat posed by the aliens and Quarians, as well as to show the galaxy that we're united."

Everybody silently nodded at those words. Tension was on the rise ever since the Hierarchy took it upon itself to independently send a diplomat, opened diplomatic channels between the Citadel and the Alliance and Quarian Republic, and the latter announced their arrival to the Citadel.

"There is one outstanding fact I must bring to the attention of the Council," Fedorian broke the silence. Every pair of eyes was on him now. Even the two Blackwatch soldiers focused their attention on the Primarch. "After debriefing Admiral Eudorian," 'and the young Vakarian', "we found out that Humanity created their own artificial intelligence. That is how they breached cyber security and hacked into the extranet. And many other things…"

There it was; Fedorian dropped the bombshell he's been clinging onto on their heads. Everything froze for a few seconds in the chamber. Fedorian noticed the temporarily frozen shapes of the others, save perhaps for Sparatus.

"I'm still advocating for military intervention against this species! The Geth is already one too many synthetic life forms and we're lucky they didn't leave the Veil. What if these Humans' AIs will be bolder?" Sparatus questioned.

"Weren't you listening, Councilor?" Fedorian asked him. "We have absolutely nothing on them. Military action is certain to result in defeat. And I still have a few things to share with you about their synthetic creations, information I'd like you to consider before jumping to conclusions."

"The Protheans themselves left warnings regarding the threat posed by AIs, Primarch Fedorian," Tevos noted. "The Geth and the Quarians are proof of that."

"According to what Eudorian learned, the AIs identify themselves as Humans, just like their organic creators. They are given the same rights and liberties the Humans enjoy. And they have to fulfill their duties before their nation. I try to keep an open mind to the situation due to the fact that, unlike the Geth who were being used as tools, these AIs are treated as citizens."

Valern seemed to consider the Turian's argument while Linron looked at him bewildered.

"What nonsense is that?" Linron questioned. "If they join the Citadel, they will have to get rid of the AIs as per our laws. Leaving AI wander free around Citadel space is like going alone in the Terminus with a shipload of credit chits; it spills trouble. Like Councilor Sparatus said, we are lucky enough that the Geth never left the Veil. We can't take risks like that."

"If they join us," Valern pointed out. "After the recent events, it will take years to ease tensions and establish cordial relations. It will tantamount to asking them to commit genocide on their citizens."

"Councilor Valern," the Dalatrass warned him.

"We cannot allow a species who's using AIs and has a number of dreadnoughts in excess of the limits imposed by the Treaty of Farixen to open an embassy on the Citadel," Tevos pointed out. "We will show them the right path and teach them. We're the millennial Citadel Council, our guidance lead every species to prosperity."

'There's that Asari superiority and word management again,' Fedorian inwardly sighed.

"I trust the Council will do its best," Fedorian said.

"Of course. They seemed rather inclined towards diplomacy. I expect them to reach a treaty with us and join us later on. We would all benefit from their unique technologies and culture. The only thing we can do now is wait a day for their arrival."

---

Citadel, Presidium

Citadel News Network

"Greetings to every sentient out there who's now with us at this moment," the reporter on the scene reported from the press area on an official docking bay of the Presidium. "We're live now from the Presidium docking bay A04. Normally reserved for vessels who carry high ranking officials, today a Human warship is docked at bay A04 with the Human and Quarian delegates."

The camera shifted from the Asari's face and focused on the ramp that leads to the Normandy. The Alliance frigate was firmly held in place by magnetic clamps, so it wouldn't jibble jabble around and cause mayhem on the docks. The vessel had its disruptive camouflage deactivated and presented the blue and black paintjob. Its large engines were shut down and extended overhead the ship's cargo bay and ramp.

"What can you tell us about these Humans, Sanelis?" the news anchor asked, as she was live as well from the studio.

"Only what we've seen from the extranet vids and what the Council and the governments disclosed so far. The circumstances of the conflict are still unclear, but by all accounts the Human Systems Alliance was instigated by the Citadel fleets sent to track down the law breaking Quarians. Shortly after the public declaration of war made by the Humans, various official sources have released different statements; the Council claimed that it was a major misunderstanding and overzealousness on behalf of a few officers.

The Humans were able to destroy the two Citadel fleets before launching a surprising attack on Council space. For the second time in its multi-millennial history since the Rachni Wars, Thessia was subjected to enemy attack. According to sources within the military, the dreadnought Thessia Ascendant was completely destroyed in orbit over Thessia while a second one, the Zaria Dora was crippled. The orbital docks and shipyards suffered damages and the destruction of the fuel depot left 1/5 of the Parnitha System off limits due to potential severe Eezo poisoning. The cleaning forces are hard at work to at least clear a corridor in the Eezo cloud so that Thessia will pass through unharmed when she reaches that point of her orbit around the star Parnitha," the reporter said.

"I am sure the Council will bring this to their attention during the negotiations," the anchor commented dryly.

"We're unsure as to how they will react to that. After all, these Humans are not above employing high yield nuclear armament in combat, as we've seen happen in the raids on the shipping lanes of Annos Basin, as well as in a skirmish between the Asari naval forces and the Human fleet that occupied the colony of Usmenia and threatened to push past Lessus. Thankfully our fleets were able to push the invaders out of our space and Usmenia is again under the control of the Republics."

"Retired Admiral Vulkus of the Turian Hierarchy said in yesterday's evening debate that the Humans retreated too quickly and that it might have been a trap, would it not have been for Ambassador Quentius to obtain a ceasefire. But we're digressing. We see that many have come to see the new species. What can you tell us about that?"

The reporter turned around to gaze at the large crowds held back by barriers and C-Sec officers. On one side was a steep fall off the docks, on the other large crowds of Citadel individuals. A corridor delimited by barriers, officers, Turian soldiers and a few SPECTREs lead from the ramp to the welcoming committee.

"Indeed, there must be hundreds if not thousands of people here, representatives of all races. The Council is here too, at the end of the dock to welcome the delegation," she said as the camera zoomed in on the three councilors talking between themselves. "The official stand hosts ambassadors of multiple races. There's Ambassador Din Korlack of the Vol Protectorate, accompanied by Ambassador Talin of the Courts of Dekuuna. They are, however, shadowed by the presence of Primarch Tiberius Fedorian who's here but not with the Council."

Fedorian's strong features were accented by his grey and red Turian military uniform. His shoulders carried epaulettes made of metal, adorned with fancy decorations. The chest had military distinctions pinned to the uniform. The Primarch wanted to impress and he wore the clothing for it. Behind him were two Blackwatch guards.

"From what we've been told, the delegation will be formally welcomed by the Council before answering some questions for the press. After that, they'll retreat into the Council Tower for a private session between the governments to formally sign a peace treaty or at least agree on the terms."

Suddenly Fedorian froze in place as his eyes focused on the Human vessel that started to lower its ramp. Silence settled over the dock. The camera turned once again and zoomed in on the Normandy's rear.

"It's happening. They're coming out."

The ship slowly lowered the ramp until it hit the dock's own ramp with a metallic sound. The light came in such a way that the inside looked darker from distance. Two pairs of Marines came out and assumed position on either side of the ramp.

"Four Human soldiers came out," the reporter said. "And... what in Go-…" she was about to ask but shut up. From the Normandy came out a Human not in body armor as the four Marines. He was in a formal military uniform. A pair of polished black leather boots covered his feet and extended up his leg. The trousers were of blue color, as the oceans of Earth. He was wearing a white shirt beneath the light deep dark blue coat with various symbols sewn into it. White material made of thick intertwined strings ran from the man's collar downwards to his right chest side before shooting up again into a locking position at his right epaulette. The epaulettes and collar tags were red with orange and yellow decorations. His hands were covered by white gloves. The man's head was covered by a military classic style hat, the sigil of the Alliance Armed Forces composed of the three stars beneath two arching arms emblazoned in the center.

But what attracted the people's attention the most was the fact that he was holding a sword in his right hand while riding an animal. If one asked an Asari what she thought of the animal, she would say that it was majestic, a well sculpted body of muscles, wild but maintained hair, and was the color brown. In a saddle, riding the strong horse, was the commanding officer of the Alliance parade block that accompanied the official delegation. The three Councilors weren't phased by the Human riding a horse. Fedorian thought of it as an equivalent to the beasts his ancestors rode into battle back when the clans of Palaven were fighting each other with blades and spears.

For some reason, Ambassador Talin felt uneasy. His species walked on all four members for most of the time and didn't enjoy entertaining the thought of having somebody climb on them. Sure, it was something they didn't mind when it came to carrying their babes around. But not be used otherwise. Although modern Elcor warriors do mount weapon systems on their backs for use in combat.

"They seem to be making a special entrance," the anchor commented as her attention was the slave of the scenes unfolding at dock A04.

The horse slowly walked forth and was shortly followed by more Humans carrying flags. And a Quarian carrying a flag as well. Gasps and murmurs filled the crowds when the five people followed the riding officer. Fedorian and other people with any moderate knowledge recognized the Quarian as a Marine of the – former – Migrant Fleet. The armor pieces overlapping his suit were a dead giveaway. He proudly carried the banner of the Quarian Republic onto the Citadel for the first time in many years. It was very much the old flag of the Quarian people who used to live on Rannoch, the only addition being a star in the middle of it to show that they found a home among the stars, and a small diagram of the corner.

The four flags carried by the Humans were much more interesting, mostly due to them being an unknown race to the Citadel up until recently. A person in similar clothes to the riding officer was carrying the flag of the Human Systems Alliance: with planet Earth in the middle, her oceans depicted as a deep blue and her continents a yellow color; the headless red form of a bird with her wings span open and the words AD ASTRA PER ASPERA written along its wingspan was holding the planet; the curved stripes of red and white behind the bird and Earth were shooting upwards, over another deep blue background.

A flag the Council and other diplomats recognized all too well from the official Alliance seal attached to the declaration of war to the Council some weeks ago. The Turians were very at home with this kind of practice – of carrying banners and flags – from their military history especially, a practice still alive within the Hierarchy. A unit's flag was something the soldiers were proud of, a pillar of strength and inspiration.

The national symbols were followed by the three battle flags of the Alliance Armed Forces. A soldier wearing the Army T-Kev body armor in green and brown paintjob, a green beret covering his hair instead of the helmet, carried the battle flag of the Systems Alliance Army. Over a green background was an Aquila spreading its wings protectively over a drawing of Earth emblazoned on its chest. Its beak held a white star. The left leg's claws firmly carried a sword while its right ones held together a set of arrows. Above the aquila's head was written in golden letters FOR EARTH AND HER COLONIES; below her claws SYSTEMS ALLIANCE ARMY. A ribbon with the words PRO PATRIA went over and behind the legs of the bird. All four corners of the flag were decorated with golden oak leaves.

The naval officer clad in the distinct blue uniform of the Alliance Navy carried the flag of the aforementioned. On a deep blue background laid another representation of Earth, an old school anchor was laid over the planet. The anchor had a star going into the hole traditionally reserved for a string or a chain to go through. Beneath the globe and anchor, a ribbon with the words DEFENDERS OF THE EARTH spanned open. In similar golden letters, on the upper side was written FOR EARTH AND HER COLONIES, while on the lower one was SYSTEMS ALLIANCE NAVY. The banner's corners held lightning bolts.

The last one was the Marine wearing its T-Kev Mod S body armor, minus the helmet that was replaced by a black beret. He proudly carried the banner of his beloved Corps. On a dark grey background laid a brown eagle with its wings open. On its chest was Earth in the same colors as on the other battle flags, an anchor going diagonally behind the planet this time. The eagle's beak held a star, similar to its Army counterpart. The same words, FOR EARTH AND HER COLONIES, as well as SYSTEMS ALLIANCE MARINE CORPS filled the upper and lower parts. The eagle's claws held a ribbon with the words AD HOMINES SEMPER FIDELIS, which meant "Always faithful to Humanity".

The flag bearers were followed by the fanfare, the musicians with trumpets, drums, fifes, pipes and other instruments. Then soldiers in ceremonial uniforms like the riding officer, pristine rifles in their hands. They were all marching in three columns, side by side. The M7H Lancer assault rifles were gripped tight in their hands and slightly resting on their chests. It was a spectacle to behold for the eyes of the civilians and the entirety of Citadel space in reality. Fedorian was reminded of his people's traditional military parades, since before the Turians ever took up to the stars.

They formed up on the left side of the Normandy's bay ramp. The officer with the flag bearers were the farthest away in the small 120 men parade block. Thy all seemed to freeze in place. Suddenly, the officer unsheathed his slightly curved cavalry sword and bellowed with a mighty voice for the whole dock to hear. Since the English language was given to Quentius so they could integrate it in their translators, everybody who updated their software could understand him.

"COMPANY! The president of the Human Systems Alliance, Representative of the Quarian Republic, Ambassador of the Human Systems Alliance, and Ambassador of the Quarian Republic. AT ATTENTION! Prepare for review! Eyes right! Salute!" he said and brought the sword's hilt close to his chin, the blade pointing upwards. The riflemen held their rifles to the chest with their left hands while the right one immediately shot to the forehead, backs straightening.

"It looks like some sort of military ceremony is taking place on the Presidium docks," the news anchor noted before falling again silent. More than a few Turians present took note of how strikingly similar the Human military salute was to theirs. No self respecting Turian would fail to recognize the Humans as soldiers. An honor guard even. Councilor Tevos herself didn't know how to feel about it. One part of her thought that they copied the Turian tradition. She started to dislike their newfound galactic neighbors more and more, with this entrance turning into a militaristic show, add that to the damages and casualties suffered by the Republics in the short war.

The four diplomats walked out of the Normany with Fireteam Immortal forming a protective chain around them. Shepard was at the front with Kaidan. Ashley and Alex were on the left and right. James and Edi were behind. Their M7H Lancer rifles and T-Kev Mod S-N7 body armor were pristine and menacing looking. The six members of the Marine Corps N7 Special Forces scoured the crowd and surroundings for threats and possible ambush points. Edi had already identified 4 sniper teams before leaving the ship, all thanks to the Normandy's sensors and hull mounted cameras and telescopes.

Montgomery and Goyle took in the sight of the Citadel as it was seen from the Presidium docks. It was truly magnificent. A landscape nobody forgets – the thick clouds of the Serpent Nebula gently flowing through the arms of the station, reflecting a pink-blue light due to its atomic composition. Tevos smiled to herself as she noticed the awe in their eyes. She gently gestured to her colleagues and they slowly walked forth to welcome them. Fedorian was conversing with Din Korlack about something. Ambassador Talin dedicated his full attention to the new arrivals. He feared the Humans might be as harsh and militaristic as the Turians.

Shaken by Koris from the mesmerizing sight of the Citadel, Montgomery and Goyle resumed their walk down the ramp. The president saluted the troops as they walked in front of them. He stopped in front of the mounted officer.

"Sir! Troops of the 1st and 2nd Company, 1st Battalion, 30th Honor Guard and Protocol and Military Music Regiment have been assembled for the parade! Commander of the parade, Captain Salyukov!"

The president nodded and gestured for them to be at ease as they walked forth to meet the three diplomats. Fedorian had left mere seconds ago so he would be in the meeting room when the Humans and Quarians got there with the Council.

"At ease!" the Captain said and everybody assumed a more relaxed stance. From what the officer just said, the word 'parade' stood out the most. The civilians were whispering among each other, some feeling outrage. These newcomers who they had defended in the streets were now parading like victors on the Citadel? Of course, the truth was that they didn't protest just for the Human race who portrayed itself as the victim of blatant Council aggression. Valern himself was seriously upset. Sparatus was outraged. Tevos simply knew this was just the beginning of a long day and an even longer tomorrow.

The two sides were face to face now. Montgomery waited for the Council to speak first. Tevos smiled and put up the act.

"Welcome, esteemed dignitaries, to the Citadel," she said. "I am Councilor Tevos of the Asari. To my right is Councilor Sparatus, a Turian. On my left is Councilor Valern."

"Welcome to the Citadel. I hope this first meeting will usher an era of peace and advancement for the whole galaxy," Valern added while Sparatus kept his mouth shut. His eyes glared daggers into the Quarians especially.

"Thank you for the warm welcome, Councilors," Montgomery spoke. The press was taking pictures and recording everything. "A beautiful station if I may say so."

"The Citadel is a marvel of engineering left behind by the Protheans," Tevos said. The mentioning of the Protheans made some of the president's smile fade, a detail that didn't go unnoticed by the experienced matriarch.

"Indeed. They knew how to pick the best place for it," he said as he gazed one more time across the railing of the docks and took the sight of the arms. He turned his attention again to the aliens and his own colleagues. "I'm Kevin Montgomery, President of the Human Systems Alliance. May I introduce you Ambassador Anita Goyle," he said as Goyle took a step forward with a smile on her lips.

Tevos turned to Koris and Zorah. "I assume that the former Admirals of the Migrant Fleet are now present in civilian posts."

"Representative Zaal'Koris of the Quarian Republic," Koris said with his right hand on his chest, "and Ambassador Rael'Zorah of the same political entity," he said with his hand towards Rael.

"I'm happy to welcome you all, as well as saddened by the circumstances that brought us today here," Tevos said.

"If only they could have been avoided…" Koris said as he fixed Sparatus with his glowing eyes. "But good things sometimes come at a cost, even unwillingly at first." He turned to face Rael. The former Admiral nodded at him and they both moved their three fingered hands to their masks. Two hissing sounds were heard. The councilors held their breath while the two Quarians gave the galaxy the first glimpse to their faces in nearly three hundred years.

"Thanks to Humanity," Rael said with his natural, unfiltered voice, "and a few Quarian biologists and geneticists, we can once again feel the air brush against our skin."

It was a madness at this point. The journalists were in a frenzy to get the best shots of their faces. Gasps and murmurs filled the public. Even the few SPECTREs' and C-Sec officers' attention was slave to the unveiling.

"I see. I am glad to hear that the Quarians' fortune has changed."

"No thanks to you bastards," somebody said on Immortal's private channel.

"Sergeant Wyatt!" Shepard said.

"No thanks to this Council," Koris commented dryly. "Or maybe it was because of this Council that forced us onto the path that lead us here, minus the hundreds of thousands dead because of your crusade against us."

Goyle stepped in before the Council had a chance to come back with an accusation that'd aggravate the situation further. "Alas, we are here to put an end to that unfortunate conflict and introduce ourselves to the galactic community."

"Indeed," Valern agreed.

"Before we head into the Council's chambers to meet the representatives of our governments for today's negotiation, we could answer a few questions for the press if you'd like to," Tevos suggested. "It will help the wider galactic community understand your people better."

"It would be our pleasure, Councilor," Montgomery said. They approached the area reserved for the press. They were still dumbfounded by the fact that Koris and Rael dropped their face masks, totally ignoring the threat of catching harmful bacteria to them – courtesy of the immunity boosters enhanced with medical nano robots of the Alliance. They recomposed themselves and thought of the best questions to ask.

After a few moments, an Asari raised her hand from the crowd of journalists.

"Only lady there with her hand up."

"Thank you. Hiiany Dalisi, with The Observer. I couldn't help but recognize you as the same person who gave the declaration of war in the vid delivered through the extranet and it is safe to say that it stirred a lot of unrest. Can you give us more details on what happened at your colony between General Arterius and your commanders?" she asked.

Montgomery cleared his throat for a moment, more to make sure he still has his voice. 'God, why can't I be senile like when we left the Normandy?' he asked himself. At first, he didn't feel like he was talking to different life forms at all. But it slowly settled in – to be on the galaxy's capital talking in the name of the Human race. The aliens were surprisingly Human-like to some extent, as he noticed with the Quarians. But they were still a people who evolved thousands of light years away from Earth.

"After reviewing every data we collected after the liberation of Shanxi," he said and deliberately chose the word 'liberation', "we concluded that our initial conclusion was right – the commanding officer of the Turian forces and one Tela Vasir tried to bully the colonists and the commanding officer of the Shanxi Defense Force into submission." Further shock was visible on the peoples' faces. Tevos herself felt like facepalming there. Montgomery was spilling the beans from the very beginning. "What ensued was nothing short of murder and deliberate destruction of property and assets. During dialogue with Council officials it has come to our knowledge that General Arterius overstepped his jurisdiction and was overzealous. Of course we couldn't have known this at the start and our military took the necessary steps to secure our safety."

After he finished his answer, a Salarian was picked to submit his question.

"Jowall Ezon, The Frontier. I would like to ask how the Quarians met Humanity and how the relations evolved?"

It was Rael who replied to that. "I can help with the answer. I was there, the one whose ship made first contact with Humanity," he said with his unfiltered voice and turned to look at the Human delegates.

"We were in the middle of an expedition into the unknown when we met the Migrant Fleet," Goyle said. "We made contact near what you call Relay 314, the same Mass Relay the Council opened. We engaged in negotiations and very quickly developed a friendship. One can argue that first contact with the Quarian species was the most important thing to happen to us since we discovered Prothean ruins in our solar system."

More than a few Prothean enthusiasts entertained the idea of exploring these ruins. Valern, and Tevos especially, were more than looking forward to their integration into the Citadel members so they can study their unique technology. But their attention was again caught by Rael resuming his answer.

"And the most important thing to us since the Geth conflict and our exodus from the Veil. We met a fleet of warships with a few science vessels exploring the galaxy. I must say Humans are a very curious species, unafraid to boldly venture into the great unknown we call the galaxy."

A Drell piqued the delegation's attention and she was the one to ask the third question.

"Eyate Haen, Rakhana Continuum. The Hanar revere the Protheans as their deities, calling them Enkindlers. Their influence is still visible all across the galaxy. What news can you give us regarding the Protheans? Have you found out anything spectacular about them?"

Montgomery seemed to consider something in his mind. They didn't tell much to the Quarians either. The Council was looking eager for an answer as well.

"We found the Prothean installation 130 years ago. We have studied it… like anybody would. It greatly contributed to our technologic advancement. But, unlike the species of the galaxy, we didn't grow too reliant on their technology. We had our own projects in development before finding Eezo and its applications.

But one thing that stood out to me… and not just to me, is that everybody seems to think that there is nothing beyond the Protheans," he said and paused for some dramatic effects. "Why is that?" he asked again with a pause and a questioning look directed even towards Rael and Koris. "This galaxy is much older than the Prothean race. Me and many of my kin believe that it's absurd to entertain the thought of the Protheans being the only ones to precede us. We have found archeological proof that there were at least two more races that lived at the same time or before the Protheans. One is called the Inusannon. The second is unnamed. We only know that the Protheans fought a losing war against this unnamed foe of theirs. That is one fact I consider outstanding."

The bomb was dropped and the shock, yet again, on the people's faces was unmatched. At least on the Asaris' expressions who were very easy to read due to physiological similarities. One of the greatest held beliefs – that the Protheans were the only ones to have achieved spaceflight in the history of the galaxy, and through their influence the current races took to the stars – was put to the test. A Hanar was about to shout heresy.

Montgomery and Goyle noticed the change and decided to take one more question for the interview. But a personal goal was achieved by the president with his declaration.

"Mirli T'Hali, Armali Correspondent," an Asari said. "Despite the fact that many of the civilian population called for peace and supported your people who you personally have showcased as the victim, many civilians have been killed by your military, especially on merchant ships that were deliberately targeted in Salarian space. How do you explain this?"

'Well, it was only a matter of time before this was brought into the spotlight,' he thought. He let Goyle take this question and she didn't let him down.

"While the loss of all kind of life is tragic, it is an inevitable part of war. The Alliance Navy targeted the supply lines of the Salarian military, a tactic I'm sure you are all very familiar with," she stated.

"But to put things into perspective, there were more than 5,000 dead civilians on Shanxi as a direct consequence of Turian orbital bombardment and war crimes. We didn't hit civilian targets needlessly, but disrupted enemy supply lines. Tragic indeed. And maybe unforgivable," Montgomery added.

"Allow me to conclude with the motto of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Gold in peace, steel in war!" Goyle finished and turned to the Council. Her eyes relayed the same words she spoke a moment ago. The warning had been issued.

"I like our Ambassador," James commented.

"Gotta hand it to her and the president," Shepard said. "Form up, the show is about to start. Tighten security around the VIPs."

As the Council gave a few closing words to the press and the public, and said how important it is that they secure a lasting peace first, the six N7 Marines formed a ring around the delegation. Montgomery and Koris were walking next to each other while the ambassadors were behind them. Just as the people were about to lose interest and disperse, the mounted officer and his men started his number after Montgomery signaled him to.

"Company!" he shouted and the honor guard detachment went stiff as a stick. "For parade! Three columns! Shoulder by shoulder! FORM UP!"

And as ordered, three long columns formed up. The officer was first, his horse's tail dancing left and right. Behind him were the flag bearers. They were followed by the military music band and the riflemen. It looked like a Turian Unification Day defilation.

"What is the meaning of this?" Sparatus asked.

"Mister president…" Tevos trailed off as C-Sec officers tensed up and were looking at the Council for the order to either attack or stand down. Edi was monitoring local radio chatter and it looked like C-Sec's reinforcements were preparing to make an entrance if things went south. Shepard released the safety of his assault rifle.

"Stand down!" Valern ordered to C-Sec.

"I told you it wasn't the best idea," Koris whispered into Montgomery's ear.

Montgomery simply smiled to Koris. "There is no need for violence, Councilors."

Tevos looked at the officers to confirm the stand down order. "Please follow us to the Council chambers, esteemed dignitaries," she said still playing the kind, understanding mother game.

They resumed the slow walk towards the Council's private chambers. Not even twenty meters behind them the Alliance parade block was falling into rhythm. The Turians were now more captivated by the display than anyone else.

"With song, forward march!" [1]

The fanfare began playing a song. The drums gave them the rhythm. The soldiers' boots echoed off the metal floor. With a loud voice filled with enthusiasm they started singing.

…

Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord;

He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored;

He hath loosed the fateful lightning of His terrible swift sword:

His truth is marching on.

…

Glory, glory, hallelujah!

Glory, glory, hallelujah!

Glory, glory, hallelujah!

His truth is marching on.

…

The crowds watched the whole event embezzled by the lyrics. Every person who was following the live stream on the extranet or on the news channels saw it too. To those with a more critic way of thinking, the whole extravagancy of a small parade became clear: these Humans who have barely ascended to the stars were proclaiming absolute victory over the Council. But also issuing a warning.

Tevos remembered that they had discovered Prothean ruins just 130 years ago. They couldn't be spacefaring for more than that. Yet here they were, after dealing a decisive defeat at Shanxi and a more moral defeat during the Blitz to the Citadel Council and the three member superpowers, holding their cause high and proud.

…

I have seen Him in the watch-fires of a hundred circling camps,

They have builded Him an altar in the evening dews and damps;

I can read His righteous sentence by the dim and flaring lamps:

His day is marching on.

…

Despite the fact that the lyrics sound like they have been written a long time ago, in an era where spaceflight and contemporary society weren't present, they still carried across the message.

…

I have read a fiery gospel writ in burnished rows of steel:

"As ye deal with my contemners, so with you my grace shall deal";

Let the Hero, born of woman, crush the serpent with his heel,

Since God is marching on.

…

They would be a hard nut to crack. For a good reason, Ambassador Talin felt good listening to the Human song. They were telling the whole galaxy to shove it in such a subtle and obvious way that it was funny.

…

He has sounded forth the trumpet that shall never call retreat;

He is sifting out the hearts of men before His judgment-seat;

Oh, be swift, my soul, to answer Him! Be jubilant, my feet!

Our God is marching on.

---

Citadel, Presidium

Council Private Chambers

…

In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,

With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me.

As He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free,

While God is marching on.

…

"They are a lot braver than I initially gave them credit for," Fedorian commented amused.

Linron was angered further by the Turian's comment on the Humans' little parade. The soldiers stopped outside the buildings while the delegation went inside with the Council.

"These newcomers haven't been for more than an hour and they're already proving to be trouble," she said as she tore her eyes away from the display.

"Time and patience will play in our favor with them," Irissa said, 'just as it did with the Turians. If there was anyone with the capabilities to utterly destroy the Council, it was the Hierarchy.' But the Turians were civilized enough not to do it. And the Humans are civilized too. Not unlike the Krogans who lacked a unified representation and the largest authority fell with the warlords or overlords.

"Just like it did with the Krogan," Linron swore under her breath. "While not Krogan-like, they are still brash, violent and think they're the center of the Universe. If left to their own devices they will kick the galactic wagon off the road."

"Such a thing will not happen," Fedorian assured her. "While this conflict came as a wakeup call and upset relations between our governments, we're still in a much more favorable position."

"We had at least two thousand years to develop and expand. The Humans had 130 years," Irissa said. "Just consider the evolution of demographics, industry and economy for 2,000 years in contrast to merely 130."

"Yes, but unlike us-" Fedorian wanted to point out something but was cut off by Linron.

"They have superior FTL and are in a more favorable strategic position from a military point of view. You stressed the matter to no end," she told him.

"Because if something goes wrong at the diplomatic level, it will be mostly Turians who will pay in blood!" the Primarch said. "The Asari Republics simply refuse to raise militarization and the Salarian Union doesn't make a move without full knowledge on the situation. The only other species with any potential are the Batarians and we all know how much of a pain they are. So that only leaves the Hierarchy to carry the fight," he ranted before calming down.

""Gold in peace, steel in war" their own delegate said. What does that tell you all?" Linron questioned.

"Let's play our cards right and do the right thing," Fedorian said as he gave one last moment of attention to the screen that showed the Human soldiers who were standing at parade rest. "I can already see some Turians taking a liking to their style."

The Council stepped in followed by the Humans and Quarians. It looked like Montgomery had a short lived disagreement with one of his bodyguards who reluctantly remained outside with his comrades.

Now that they found themselves face to face, they stared each other down. Montgomery's attention was mostly directed at Fedorian, the man who had the greatest military of the galaxy at his will. Goyle's eyes were darting between Linron and Irissa, the latter receiving looks filled with unfriendly thoughts. Fedorian himself tried to read what was on the president's mind by gazing into his eyes. Turians looked in the eyes to discern one's thoughts since they didn't have much in body language.

"Now that we are all here, let us commence the negotiations," Tevos said. "The Council will oversee the negotiations as hosts while representatives of each government will speak on its behalf. Negotiating for the Asari Republics, Ambassador Irissa."

"Negotiating for the Salarian Union," Valern said, "Dalatrass Linron."

"Negotiating for the Turian Hierarchy," Sparatus said with false enthusiasm, "Primarch Fedorian."

"Honored to meet you all," Montgomery said. "I doubt you don't know who we are after the introductions at the docks."

"Indeed," Linron said, "with that kind of entrance… would be hard to forget."

"We aim to impress," Goyle added with a smirk crossing her lips.

"Let's tend to the reason why we are here," Koris said. Nobody could deny that the aging former admiral didn't think well about the Council and the three governments it represented.

"Of course," Tevos said as she and her two colleagues stood separated from the negotiators. "This session takes place to discuss the peace terms between the five sovereign powers. As the offended side," she chose her words carefully to appease the Humans, "the representatives of the Human Systems Alliance and Quarian Republic get to speak first."

The four looked between each other until Koris decided to speak first.

"The Quarian Republic did not go looking for conflict. We only wanted to secure our people's future… despite the many sabotages laid out by the Council's diplomatic arm and, when that one failed, shrewd methods… now they finally came and attempted to subjugate us."

'He's merciful to say this behind closed doors. Otherwise… it would have been savage!' Montgomery thought.

"The Council took measures to secure the safety of the people under its jurisdiction from-" Sparatus spoke up but a meaningful glare from Fedorian made him pause to rethink his words, "-from possible aggressions manifested by the Migrant Fleet after the unfortunate incident with the Eezo deposits in Elcor space."

"You have my most sincere apologies," Fedorian said. "General Arterius' actions shames every Turian in uniform. I'm personally taking measures to prevent such an incident as the one at Shanksh- Shanxi."

"That is most fortunate, Primarch Fedorian," Koris said.

"Because the very first term is a public apology before the entire galaxy," Rael declared. "One such excuse coming from the mouths of your governments."

"The Systems Alliance demands the same thing – a public apology for the unwarranted attack on Shanxi," Goyle said.

"What do the representatives say of this term?" Valern asked.

Irissa thought of it with mixed feelings. While seemingly nothing you can refuse to appease the others, it was a blow to the Council's prestige, pride and authority, and, by extension, the Asari Republics'. Linron didn't give a damn since Salarians aren't very much into pride. For her, a mere apology was nothing. What mattered was to have all the important cards in their hands and to tame the Humans. Fedorian was of a whole other opinion. He apologizing for such a thing would be a blow to Turian pride. But while that proud attitude was their saving grace during the Rebellions, it made him no service now. Rather than further antagonize the Alliance, a simple apology would work in their favor. It would also make for good PR. Plus the negative effects would be amortized if they made the apology and not their councilors who were the face to the galaxy.

"The Hierarchy will offer the public apology," he agreed.

"As will the Republics."

"And the Union," Irissa said, immediately followed by Linron.

"Then it is accepted," Tevos said. "Another term forwarded by Humanity or the Quarians?"

"Yes," Rael said. "Reparations for the destroyed ships and compensation for the families of the dead. This will also include the ships the Hierarchy destroyed some months ago at the Eezo deposit. The reparations for the destroyed ships will be paid in materials."

"The exact amounts can be established by lower level diplomatic negotiations," Koris added. "That would be our terms."

The Council was genuinely surprised by this. They were getting away easier than they expected to. A wave of nods was their answer. Fedorian will be in for a surprise when he'll learn about the missing shipyards at Magna.

"As for us," Montgomery said, "we demand reparations as well. Three times the amount the damages done to our colony are rated at. Add to that the cost of the ships lost and the expenditures for the mobilization of our entire military. All in Citadel currency."

"I can see the justification for the damages dealt to the colony, but the demand for reimbursement for mobilization is unreasonable," Irissa said.

"I must agree with the Ambassador. The Hierarchy does not agree to that term," Fedorian said.

"And neither will the Union. The losses suffered by our merchant fleet will take a significant toll on our economy. Consider the fact that galactic economy is already experiencing a minor recession due to your raids," Linron commented.

"The Council governments refuse the term. What does the Alliance say?" Tevos asked.

'Well, we'll just pump the numbers of the reparations for Shanxi to compensate for that one,' Montgomery thought. "I see. We weren't aware of that. We withdraw that term."

Goyle wasn't initially aware of what he thought, but went along with it. She reasoned that he must have an idea and her line of thought was along the same lines as his. She decided to list the next term.

"We also want the establishment of a demilitarized zone from Relay 314 to, and including, the Turian colony of Magna."

"Absolutely not!" Fedorian refused.

"Magna is from where you launched your attack against us," Montgomery pointed out. "And it can be used as staging point for future aggressions."

"I will not leave the colony defenseless. A fleet will move into the system as soon as your forces vacate it. You could just as well attack it sometime in the future. I cannot accept this term," Fedorian clarified. "I have a duty to protect the Turians and leaving them defenseless isn't helping."

"Then maybe we can work something out here," Goyle said. "How about a partial demilitarization?"

"What are you proposing?"

"Only a certain amount of military hardware and personnel can be stationed in the system. We will show the same courtesy at Relay 314. We are claiming it as part of the Alliance."

"Relay 314 is in Council space," Linron said. "You can't claim it."

"But we can," Montgomery said as he presented a holographic map of that particular galactic sector. "The stellar cluster that holds both Relay 314 and Magna can be treated as a buffer zone. Again, exact numbers should be established by lower level talks in the immediate future. But Relay 314's system is under Alliance jurisdiction. The only way you are going to make it otherwise is by the force of arms."

While his inexperienced younger self would have joyously entertained the idea of putting to the test the motto "Gold in peace, steel in war", the Primarch he was today knows what it would mean. And it would go against what he stood for.

"Sounds reasonable," he gave in. "I accept a partial DMZ of the Relay 314 – Magna corridor."

"And since we are on the topic of infringing into the other's space, maybe you could give us an explanation for the intrusion into the Krogan DMZ in the Aralakh System," LInron demanded. Koris and Rael focused their attention on the two Humans. They had warned them that it was a sensitive subject.

"As far as we've been told," Goyle began, "Aralakh System is not Council space. It only happens to reside in the thick of it. The Krogans of Tuchanka have sovereignty over Aralakh."

"The naval task force that's there is on a humanitarian mission for the Krogans of Tuchanka," Montgomery added. "We intend to right a wrong the Asari and Salarians did many years ago."

Color threatened to drain off Linron's face as she thought they were trying to cure the genophage.

"You must understand, mister president, that the Krogan DMZ is in place for the safety of the entire galaxy. It prevents another Rebellion," Irissa explained.

"Hard to start a war when your population's natality is on the negative side of 0," Goyle commented.

"If I'm not mistaken tomorrow will be a day dedicated to such matters discussed with the Council. I hope to clear this tomorrow with a third member of the Alliance delegation present," the president said.

"A third member?" Tevos asked.

"Indeed. You will all meet him tomorrow if all goes well. It will be an… enlightening experience," he answered.

Realization dawned on Sparatus' face. And not only his. "You will not bring an AI on the Citadel, much less so into the Council's chambers!" he ordered.

"I concur with the Turian Councilor," Linron said. "Haven't the Quarians taught you anything? They'd know better than anyone the risks involved with such creations."

"I can personally vouch for the members of the Homo Artificialis subspecies," Koris declared. Montgomery was actually impressed by the fact that he bothered to learn their scientific name.

"Subspecies?" Irissa asked. "AIs are machines, tools. Dangerous tools."

Fedorian, who kept silent so far on the matter, saw Montgomery shaking his head.

"Such a …close minded attitude. Bigoted even so. Every story has two sides. The Geth situation actually has three sides. The Quarian side, the Council's side… and the Geth's side of the story," the president said and received cold stares. "If we are to pursue peaceful relations then you require some education in the field of AIs. I ask of you for a chance."

"I'll give you that chance," Fedorian replied, much to the shock of the Council. "I want to meet one too before I pass judgment only because I have been taught so by my elders."

'We might be onto something here' the president thought.

"You will not be disappointed, Primarch," Goyle said.

After exchanging looks between each other and seeing Tevos agree while Sparatus disagreed, Councilor Valern spoke up. "We are open to new possibilities. So we shall give our consent to bring one of your AI citizens on the station. But adequate precautions will be put in motion."

"Thank you."

"The Turian Hierarchy, while very grateful for the repatriation of Admiral Kaevus Eudorian, wants the repatriation of every soldier fallen in captivity," Fedorian said.

"And the repatriation of the crews and ships captured at Relay 314," Irissa said.

Goyle nodded at that. "We can release every Turian, Salarian and Asari as soon as a treaty is signed. Even the few surviving mercenaries and Admiral Atelas Razea," she said. "But the ships… they are spoils of war for now."

"We can offer compensation for the ships," Irissa tried to reason with them.

Montgomery smiled. "We are open to suggestions. But before we can say anything for sure we must discuss the matter in private. You shall have our answer at tomorrow's negotiations. After all, the vessels were part of the Citadel Joint Fleets. That should fall into the Council's jurisdiction," he said. In easier to understand words, he basically told Irissa that they want other concessions than monetary compensation.

"There's one more issue I'd like to address," Linron said. "Humanity's employment of nuclear weapons. Such a practice has been outlawed in Citadel space since the beginning. The only ones to use them were the Krogans and we all know how that ended."

Montgomery simply nodded and looked at Goyle for something. She faintly gestured with her eyes towards the exit. Then he looked at Koris and Rael who seemed a bit bored as well.

"An issue that will be resolved, Dalatrass. We are more than open to negotiating on the matter. But we grew tired for the time being and would like to resume our dialogue tomorrow during the open session. If that is alright with you," he said.

He was basically throwing her a bone to chew on. Another thing for them to theorize on and how to deal with it tomorrow, trying to anticipate the Humans' answer. They could work with that. A recession would be welcomed now.

"Does anybody oppose postponing the negotiations for tomorrow?" Tevos asked. Nobody answered her.

"Then we are agreed then? On the already negotiated terms?" Montgomery asked.

"Indeed."

"Then this session is over. We shall reconvene tomorrow for the public session."

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CODEX UPDATE:

ALLIANCE SPECIAL FORCES

The Alliance Army is composed of multiple arms who are constantly cooperating with each other almost to the point where the soldiers forget that they're different units. To name them, there is the Infantry, the Cavalry (armored units with heavy armor, particularly tank units with their infantry support; afferent logistical support), the Air Force (originally a separate branch of the national militaries, it was slaved to the Army after the military reforms of early 22nd century), the Artillery (includes self-propelled guns, self-propelled anti air guns, multiple launch rocket systems or MLRS for short, anti-air rocket artillery, field guns), the Pioneer Corps (combat engineers whose job is to deal with the bridging, building fortifications, demolition operations, etc), and the Special Forces.

The Special Forces are the special operations force of the Alliance Army. They specialize in unconventional warfare behind enemy lines, reconnaissance, psychological warfare, counter terrorism, informational warfare (in concert with the AIC), warfare in uneven terrain, and combat search and rescue (CSAR) operations.

They also benefit from light armor support, having airmobile (transportable by air and capable of airborne drop) IFVs under their direct command. The multipurpose aircraft employed by the Special Forces is the UT-50 Alligator, the UT-47 Kodiak's elderly, on steroids brother. The Alligator can accommodate up to 100 men and their gear, or 2 large vehicles and 15 soldiers. Although designed for both atmospheric and outer space operations, the Alligator has seen little deployment outside a planet's atmosphere; the Navy preferring their own larger troop transports to ferry men, vehicles and material from the 2 kilometer long troop carriers (such as the SSV Mary Celeste or SSV Astral Queen) to the surface of a planet or vice versa.

Drafted from multiple national militaries, the Special Forces is very diverse. Here one can find the Green Berets (drawn from the US Army), the Blue Berets of the VDV (Vozdushno desantnye voyska Rosii, or Russian Airborne Troops), the Fallschirmjäger of Germany, the Paracadutisti of Italy, the SAS (Special Air Service) of the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand, Mountain Huntsmen, Spetsnaz, SEAL, and other former national units. The Alliance Army Special Forces helped ease tensions between former rivals (such as Japanese and Chinese soldiers, or Russian and American, or Israeli and Arabian) and mitigate them; a social success.

The Alliance Marine Corps has its own special operations force called the N7 Program. Ranging from N1 to N7, the digit indicates the level of skill and training the Marine is rated at. The N7 initiative became reality after the Insurrection came to an end, the Alliance concluding that the Corps needed its own special forces with a faster reaction time in any place where the Navy could take them at a moment's notice.

The N7 graduates are considered 'the crème a la crème' when it comes to Alliance soldiers. With extra augmentations for increased physical endurance, strength, better reaction time, and stronger bones, they are a force no sane person would want to cross. Although this doesn't give them superhuman qualities, the augmentations are kept as a state secret and divulging information to unauthorized people is considered high treason.

The best of the Black Berets, as the Marines are nicknamed due to the color of their uniforms and headwear, specialize in unconventional warfare, reconnaissance, direct action, counter-terrorism, combat search and rescue, informational warfare (mostly with the help of Smart AI comrades), psychological warfare, sabotage, manhunt, fast boarding operations, and security assistance to high ranking dignitaries in foreign territory. For more mobility and efficiency, N7 members are organized into fireteams of 4 to 6 members and assigned to stealth ships or capital ships, or assigned to garrisons and deployed in action when needed.

Just as they are diverse, so are their mottos. The Green Berets live by the words "De Oppresso Liber"; the Blue Berets say "Nobody, but us!" or "VDV! Greetings from the sky!"; the SAS proclaims "Who Dares Wins"; the N7 adopted the words "Audax at Fidelis".

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ALLIANCE – COUNCIL WAR

Also known as: Human – Council War, Second Contact War, Terran Blitz

Date: 28th June 2180 – 15th July 2180 (ceasefire)

Location: Shanxi, Relay 314, Annos Basin, Athena Nebula, Council – Traverse border, Asari Republics Frontier Colonies, Magna

Campaigns: The Shanxi Campaign (Battle of Shanxi, Surrender at Relay 314), The Terran Blitz

Result:

Military stalemate

Initial Council attack repelled

Attican Traverse border open to pirate incursions

Galactic economy experiences a minor recession

Parnitha System contaminated with purified Eezo

The emergence of the Human race as a new galactic power

The introduction of the carrier type of warships to the galaxy

End of the status quo

Belligerents:

Arcturus Federation: Human Systems Alliance, Quarian Republic

Citadel Council: Asari Republics, Salarian Union, Turian Hierarchy

Commanders and leaders:

Human Systems Alliance: President Kevin Montgomery, Fleet Admiral Steven Hackett, Marshal Ney Casiade, General of the Army Vlad Singh, Director Jack Harper (minor participation)

Quarian Republic: Representative Zaal'Koris, Admiral Han'Gerrel, Admiral Shala Raan (minor participation, organized defense of New Rannoch)

Asari Republics: Councilor Tevos Belsari, Armali Council, Asari Unified Fleet Command

Turian Hierarchy: Primarch Tiberius Fedorian, Councilor Tavus Sparatus

Salarian Union: Dalatrass Council, Councilor Valern Haelon, Salarian Navy Command

Strength:

Human Systems Alliance: 12,000+ warships, 100,000,000+ soldiers

Quarian Republic: 28,000+ warships (only 3,000 part of the Heavy Fleet), 300,000 Marines

Asari Republics: 11,000+ warships, 8,500,000+ commandos

Salarian Union: 10,500+ warships, 70,000,000+ soldiers

Turian Hierarchy: 30,000+ warships, 650,000,000+ soldiers

Casualties and losses:

Human Systems Alliance: 92 warships (10,200+ crew KIA), 8,600+ KIA, 5,100+ civilians

Quarian Republic: 6 warships (749 crew KIA), 193 KIA, 41 civilians

Asari Republics: 340 warships (43,000+ crew KIA), 2,600+ KIA, 1,600+ civilians

Salarian Union: 197 warships (20,000+ crew KIA), 977 KIA, 1,000+ civilians (aboard merchant ships)

Turian Hierarchy: 822 warships (140,000+ crew KIA), 60,000+ KIA, 3,000+ civilians

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[1] To those who don't know the song, it is The Battle Hymn of the Republic, a song of the American Civil War. Since that time, it has become an extremely popular and well-known American patriotic song. A hell of a lot people died in the Civil War, but at least the songs are great.

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NOTE3: Not a lot of proof reading invested into the last scene. 1 AM here and I want to sleep too. So I hope I didn't miss much... with my tired eyes. I want to thank informedterran for an idea or two he gave me for this chapter! Cheers mate! By the way, if you still haven't, then go check his story.

NOTE4: Coming up in the next chapter: the negotiations continue and more pissing contest, maybe some trouble for our heroes (who knows?), and more shady shit! Don't forget to tell me your opinion on this chapter in the review section or through PMs. Thank you for reading!

NOTE5: Please point out in PMs if you spot dubious passages. I wrote this chapter for a month and a half when I got the time. Exams... I will edit if I missed something important as pointed by you. Remember, you can always check progress on the next chapter on my profile. I always leave there a message if something will be delaying the chapter.