The Halo Effect: War and Civilization

by free man writer

A crossover years in the works. Civilizations rise and fall but to those that do stand, they prosper. They Expand. They reach out across the stars. But of course, such is a Universal law, War is never far behind. War is a language all civilized races speak and it is war most are familiar with. Co-written with BulletStormX. Halo/Mass Effect with a dash of Star Wars.

9. Much To Do

Thanks for all those reviews guys.

And uh… Jebest4781 and I do work on a lot of stuff together but this was made by me and BulletStormX. Just gotta point that out is all.

So, aside from that, lot of work to do and focus on.

The UNSC has survived their second year of war with both sides clashing repeatedly.

All the while, the Citadel Species continue to live their life blissfully ignorant of the crusade of Genocide occurring on the other side of the galaxy.

Glad to see everyone is realizing that it's not gonna be a one-sided war. As of right now, the main thing the Covenant have over the UNSC side of things is numbers and technology because this is coming from the Halo universe source wherein there was never a clear measurement as to just how much in terms of resources did the Covenant possess.

When you think about it logistically, in terms of space faring empires and alliances, the Covenant has been a space faring conglomerate for far longer than any of the other species in this story.

Both the Sangheili and San'Shyuum were space faring far before meeting one another. Even before the TTAZ species.

So while the war isn't going to be abysmally one-sided, doesn't mean it's gonna be easy.

Then again, no war ever is.

Moving on to other matters, surprise, surprise, I have yet another new crossover that I have published recently and went on a God Damn warpath with Jebest4781 in publishing. It's called I'm Nobody and it's another Mass Effect crossover however this one is with Kingdom Hearts. Yeah, weird one ain't it?

Rate Read and Review and as Always Have Nice Day.

The Halo Effect War and Civilization Chapter 9: Much To Do.

2527/2171

The Citadel

Within the Citadel Tower, the centerpiece of this giant alien structure, eight individual politicians were all gathered within a room seated around a circular table.

Within the seats were all the counselors that represented the races of the Citadel.

Well… those who have been awarded a seat on the council.

Occupying the seats were a Togruta, a Twi'lek, an Asari, a Zeltron, a Turian, Salarian, Duros and Kel-Dorian.

"So, are we all in agreement then?" The Duros Counselor asked, looking around the table.

"This is rather ambitious." The Salarian Councilor stated, crossing his arms in thought. "How many do you figure would be the appropriate number for such an endeavor?"

"We have already sent out a number of invitations and assignments for this expedition." Shaak-Ti, the Togrutan representative replied.

"We are taking no chances in this regard." The Asari Councilor, Tevos, declared. "After the Yahg debacle, we must not allow for such a tragedy to occur again."

"On that much we agree." Sparatus, the brand new Turian Councilor said with a nod. "But I must admit… the amount of individuals for this does seem a tad excessive."

"What's this? Are you losing your luster already, Sparatus?" Gnost-Dural, the Kel-Dor Councilor, inquired in amusement.

Sparatus stammered with his words, slamming his hands down emphatically.

"I just wish to exercise caution is all." He argued. "No need to rush so blindly into the unknown."

"We do need to make sure they are well prepared for such a journey." Leonie, the Zeltron Councilor said with a concerned expression. "I do not wish to lose our best and brightest so suddenly."

"We shall not allow for such a matter to occur." The Duros Councilor stated, tone firm and resolute. "With everything we have reviewed and studied, this will be our most ambitious work of our time. This force shall be going on this expedition for years. We shall not fail in this mission."

"Is everything accounted for then?" Leontyne, the Twi'lek representative inquired.

"For the most part." The Salarian councilor replied. "While our roster has been accounted for, for the most part, there are still ranks that need to be filled out, proper numbers, specific personnel, equipment, ships…"

As the Salarian Councilor rambled on, the others went back to the files that they all had, half listening to what the amphibious Councilor was talking about.

They were continually adding, removing and reviewing the large set of doctrines, rules and regulations for the upcoming foray into the unexplored regions of their galaxy.

No expense would be spared.

They would put their best and strongest foot forward.

After the Yahg, the Rachni and the Krogan, they would always make sure to display a strong front.

Gnost-Dural once said it best.

Leaders should not seek out conflict or war but must always be ready for it.

As the leaders of the Citadel continued their long planning stages, across their controlled regions of space, several areas were well underway in terms of preparations.

Certain planets and corporations were handpicked by the Council members to begin construction of ships, weapons, tools, kits, gathering of anything and everything that would be used for this expedition.

Multiple men and women from all the species under the Citadel were working hard on all sides.

Engineers were making state of the art ships.

Scientists were conducting various tests and experiments.

Soldiers were trained and performing routine ops to keep their senses and skills sharp.

Financial experts were keeping the flow of credits steady while making sure the Citadel economy remained stable.

Though it had yet to be announced, Citadel space was buzzing with activity.

Citadel Biotics Academy.

A lone Kel-Dor sage sat alone inside a room, cross-legged with his wrists resting upon his knees.

The Sage was breathing at a slow rate, inhaling and exhaling in a practiced manner.

Around his form, the air bent around him with the aura of his biotics surrounding his body. It slowly began moving outward to the circle of what appeared to be pebbles around him.

Inclining his head down, the Sage curled his hands into tight fists as his breathing slowed with his Biotics beginning to flare up.

The Biotic field began to ripple more in the air, expanding outward until it ensnared the pebbles around the Kel-Dor Sage.

Slowly, the pebbles trembled until they began levitating up off the ground with the Sage joining a moment later.

There, he levitated above the floor for a prolonged period of time with the pebbles surrounding him constantly rotating around his body. His Biotic field emanated in a perfect sphere until at long last, he began to feel the strain of his Biotics after such a concentrated and prolonged use.

Exhaling, the Kel-Dor Sage lowered himself back down onto the ground with the pebbles settling on the floor as they were from the start.

Rising to his feet, he looked over to see the entrance to this meditation room and in walked a blue skinned Twi'lek.

"Ah, Master Plo." The Twi'lek greeted. "I hope I am not disturbing you."

"Not at all, Aayla." Plo Koon waved off calmly. "I had just finished my meditation a moment ago."

He removed his mask for a moment to take a drink of water to refresh himself whilst Aayla opted to sit where her mentor sat a moment ago.

"What can I do for you, Aayla?" Koon asked after wiping away some sweat that had built up during his meditation. "Is there something troubling you?"

"Not troubling per say, Plo." Aayla said. "Just something I have been thinking about for a few days now."

"And what would that be?" Plo asked, beginning to brew a Kel-Dorian hot drink.

Aayla looked down upon the floor for a brief moment with a moment of hesitation.

"Well… I have recently been offered something quite… big, so to speak." Aayla began, trying to figure out how to properly phrase it.

Plo turned to her with an expectant demeanor to him.

"Are you perhaps referring to the Exploratory Expedition that is currently in the works right now?" Plo inquired, making Aayla blink in surprise.

"You were also offered?" Aayla asked with Plo nodding.

"And I have already accepted it."

"Really?" Aayla was certainly not expecting this… though at the same time, he is the premiere Biotic user in the galaxy.

Most everyone especially Biotic users know of the name of Grand Master Plo Koon. When it came to Grand Masters, the entire galaxy was aware of your skills and reputation. It comes with the title.

One doesn't become a Grand Master by inheritance. Since the Kel-Dor people brought their extensive knowledge and understanding of Biotics to the rest of Citadel space, there had been a number of Grand Masters that have come and gone each with their own legacy and teachings that were used well after they had either died or stepped down.

Great Masters such as the Salarian Lamor who created the exceptionally difficult ability of utilizing Biotics in a healing manner, a technique very few are able to utilize.

Or the Zeltron Grand Master Kiess Conius, advancing the concept of the ability of Biotic bonds wherein one can link themselves with those who don't have the capacity for Biotics.

And now, the latest Grand Master Plo Koon who had at long last mastered the fabled and apparently lost technique of Biotic lightning.

"What do you make of it, Master Plo?" Aayla asked inquisitively.

The Kel-Dor Sage hummed to himself, finishing his drink and pouring it into two cups. Picking them both up, he went over to his former student, holding out the cup for her to take which she accepted graciously.

"I believe it is an opportunity of a lifetime." Plo stated, seating himself in front of Aayla. "The concept of exploration is one that is fundamental to a Biotic Sage. It is an ever changing flow where one must constantly absorb new knowledge that will eventually come to benefit all."

Aayla relaxed slightly, taking a sip of her drink.

"What about you, Secura?" Plo asked softly. "It appears to be weighing on your mind heavily."

The Twi'lek Biotic contemplated for a brief moment. This was something that had been taking up much of her time, being a bit of a distraction from her usual duties and training within the Academy.

The way it was presented to her was rather unusual and vague. It was simply an asari that walked right up to her and told her to keep silent about this until told otherwise.

"I guess my main problem Master Plo is why did they choose me." Aayla stated after several seconds of thought.

"Hmm?" Plo gazed upon her. "And this troubles you?"

"Somewhat." She admitted. "This expedition… it's a massive undertaking from what I have been able to see."

"

"Indeed it is." Plo nodded. "The planning stages have revealed that much."

"Do you think three years is enough time?" Aayla asked.

"Perhaps this has been in preparation for longer than we had known and were only now just learning about it." Plo remarked. "But you didn't answer my question properly, Aayla. Why is it that you being chosen for this expedition bothers you so?"

The Twi'lek went silent, gazing down at the drink in her hand as the steam slowly wafted up from the cup.

When she was approached for this Expedition, it certainly caught her off guard and surprised her greatly. This was a monumental task and she was selected as among the first of many.

At the age of 337, she was still a maiden for all intents and purposes, being only thirteen more years of finally entering the matron stage of a TTAZ lifetime.

"I guess… I'm surprised I was even considered at all." Aayla finally said after a few seconds. "This seems like something that requires the best of the best if we're venturing out into the unknown like this."

What could be considered Plo's brow visibly rose.

"And you believe yourself unworthy of being chosen for this opportunity." The Kel-Dor stated rather than questioned.

"I am still only a maiden, Master Plo." Aayla said.

"With two hundred years of being a TTAZ ranger and ten being my pupil." Plo countered earning a gracious smile from her.

"Yes but…"

"Aayla." Plo spoke softly, baritone voice cutting through her thoughts. "This endeavor by the Citadel is one that requires the best that our galaxy has to offer. And the Citadel Council has recognized you as being among them."

Aayla frowned, still unsure of this with Plo now realizing he's going to have to pull out the big guns.

"Alright." Plo nodded. "I see how it is."

His former pupil gazed up at him in bewilderment.

"It appears you need reminding of just who it is you are." Plo said with him rising up to his feet. "You are Aayla Secura, Master of the Biotic arts and one of my finest students that I have had the privilege to teach within this academy. You may not believe you are special but your name will one day be etched within these academy walls and your actions shall be known until time itself is ripped asunder."

The Twi'lek Biotic could only stare up at her old master, gaping slightly at his rather dramatic proclamation.

"And you're time to make your name known throughout the stars is coming." Plo held out his hand for her to take which she did. "Now stand and hold your head up high. When the time comes, you will be among the first to journey out into the unknown. There will be a great weight upon your shoulders but you are my student. Which means I know you will be performing in an exemplary manner when the time comes."

The Twi'lek couldn't help but find herself gaping at the Grand Master who gazed down upon her expectantly.

No sooner did she begin to giggle, rising up from the floor with a happy smile now present.

"Alright Master Plo, I won't let you down."

Plo gave off a rumbling chuckle. "I believe it is more important that you do not let yourself down. Now come, it may be years off but we must begin preparing in our own manner."

"Yes Master." Aayla said with a bow of her head, following after the Kel-Dor to the training grounds.

-Scene Cut-

"Whew." A Zeltron with blue hair and light pink skin wiped some sweat from her brow as she resumed her work on welding together two panels while sitting atop the skeletal structure of a ship currently under construction.

Testing the metal by giving both ends several tugs and pulls, she gave a satisfying nod before moving on to the next set.

"Hey Deliah."

The Zeltron halted in her work, looking over to see a Turian with red facial markings on his face.

"Come on down, break time." He called up to her.

"I'll be down in a bit, Veltius." Deliah Blue, a Zeltron and one of the chief engineers that have been recruited for the Exploratory Expeditionary Force.

Upon accepting the offer, Blue was swiftly transferred off of the Citadel and on the shipyards of Ryloth.

She had been here for about a few months by this point, constantly working from one ship to another across the shipyards of Ryloth.

The colony world she currently resided on was one of the very first that the TTAZ race had ever colonized, having a long history with her people.

Aside from it being one of the most resource rich worlds in terms of minerals and metals, Ryloth, like the other colony world of Shili has been known to have a habit of producing especially tough TTAZ.

Though Blue was born on Zeltros, she was raised here on Ryloth by her mother.

At a "young" age, Deliah took a natural inclination toward engineering, having begun work on creating her own small engine at one point before her mother had sent her off to be taught properly.

She soon excelled in her field of expertise, having had many teachers in her 200 years of life.

Still in her youthful maiden years, Blue spent the majority of her decades on the out and about, drifting from system to system and accumulating a wealth of knowledge in terms of ships, machines, weapons and anything else that requires a steady hand and a lot of patience. From Mass Effect cores to engine thrusters and life support systems, Delilah Blue made sure to learn every nook, cranny and bolt of every ship and vessel she sailed upon.

Though she wore somewhat revealing attire, stitched on to the vest she always wore was an intricately sewn silk hood.

This was a personal possession of hers from the Quarian who taught her how to understand every single aspect of a ship to a micro level. She had perished two decades ago unfortunately but Deliah made sure to keep to what her fallen friend and mentor had taught her and to use it in every way she can.

Currently it was for the construction of a particularly large ship that would form as the flagship for the Expeditionary force.

It was to be called the Spire, a long cylindrical ship with backend having the small fins that most TTAZ ships possess. Of all the ships within Citadel space, this was to be the largest they had ever constructed.

2.1 kilometers long.

A ship that took the combined efforts of five of the council races and the client races.

This would be larger than the strongest warship the Citadel possesses, the Destiny Ascension.

Deliah snorted to herself at the thought of that.

As an expert in ship engineering, large and powerful as the Ascension was, Blue had learned to have a keen eye as to who really holds the military naval power between the Council races.

While the Kel-Dor have a strong foothold with a diverse array of ships, in terms of naval might, ingenuity and superiority in combat, it's a tie between the Duros and The Turians.

Both species have a natural inclination towards naval combat and tactics, with both possessing the largest of the fleets of the Citadel races. The Kel-Dor are a close second and have been hard at work in trying to strengthen their fleets for the coming Expedition.

They, along with the Duros, had even unveiled a brand new ship line.

The brand new 300 meter Pelta-Class frigates would be entering service at the start of the Expedition in three years' time. It was a multi-rolled ship made for light combat, escort and a freighter of sorts that would carry large quantities of supplies.

Along with the Pelta-Class frigate was the Duros Munificent-Class Star Heavy frigate. Much larger in size, above 500 meters longer then the Pelta-class, this frigate was designed for combat and troop transportation.

*Grumble*

Delilah rubbed her stomach, now realizing just how hungry she was after working on the ships for such a long time.

"Geez, Veltius is right." Delilah remarked. "I do get absorbed in my work sometimes."

Hopping down from her spot atop the ship, she began walking over to the outside cafeteria that had been set up.

There, she saw a multitude of species from all the Citadel sitting down to eat for the evening.

Over to the right of the area, Deliah spotted a trio of an Asari, a Kel-Dor and a Duros who were deep in discussion between one another all having either a datapad or their Omni-tools out.

These three were among the seven primary leaders that would oversee the entirety of the Expedition from their distinct positions.

The Duros of the group was Nensel Jul, the Leader of the Expedition. An expert in navigation and star charts, Nensel has long since been an advocate on going out into the unexplored regions of the galaxy. For years, he had worked with many individuals who shared his dream and ambition in striking out into the unknown having also constantly harassed the council. He had explored several undiscovered regions within Duros and Salarian space itself with his knowledge of star maps and the old Duros phrase of "Galactic wind". He had also worked with the head of the science division for the Expedition, Lumont Hayjer, a Salarian in charting out the ideal path for them to take when branching out into the unexplored regions.

Second to Nensel was the newly appointed title of Pathfinder, the frontline lead explorer of the Expedition. Our Pathfinder is an Asari Matriarch of 797 years old, turning 800 on the year the expedition was to launch. Matriarch Ishara is a veteran Ranger who was a graduate of the Sage academy who held a long history of combat before turning inwards for self-reflection and evaluation. For nearly two centuries, she spent a majority of her time meditating, learning and instructing many on the abilities of Biotics in various Academies across Citadel Space. A wise and aged Matriarch who has seen and accomplished much in her many centuries.

To her right was the Kel-Dor Naval Admiral Hetchkee who was to be the overall naval commander first the Expedition. A Biotic sage with exceptional piloting skills, Hetchkee was personally selected by Nensel as he had worked with him in the past before. A trained Biotic Master, Hetchkee's true calling has always been in a ship, leading in his personalized ship of the Liberator Class starfighter. Having been a part of the Kel-Dor navy for a majority of his life with 20 years of experience, Hetchkee was the ideal candidate to lead the naval division of the Expedition.

These three had been here since the announcement of the Expedition, planning, coordinating, recruiting and so on and so forth in preparation until the time came for their journey into the unknown.

Seating herself at a table, Deliah dug into her meal at a casual pace, not really minding the flavor much.

Not much to begin with really.

She should really consider packing her own lunches by this point.

As she dug into her food, Deliah took a moment to observe the group of people that had been brought on for this endeavor.

It was large to say the least, with engineers, soldiers, scientists and individuals of many skills being present.

Blue figured this would be a large undertaking, going out into the unknown. Naturally, they'd want the best to be a part of this experience. Though she herself is finding it hard to believe why they'd choose her of all people.

She's still in her maiden stages of her TTAZ lifetime and yet she was among those that have been chosen for this great venture toward the rest of the galaxy.

It was quite the surprise to be sure.

She was on the Citadel in the middle of a job when she was recruited.

Now she was on Ryloth helping prepare for the biggest undertaking in her and many others lives.

While eating, Deliah's mind began to wander, thinking of the great expanse of the unknown that they would go towards in the coming years.

What life would they find out there?

What species?

What technology?

Their culture, languages, way of life.

All of it was so tantalizingly close and yet oh so far.

A more sensual thought went through her mind, briefly fantasizing of perhaps encountering new aliens that may be quite handsome. The idea of meeting new species that would lead to an interspecies romance and affair would be quite the exotic experience.

Giggling to herself, Blue resumed her meal, her mind continuing to swirl with thoughts of what is waiting for them out there.

-Scene Cut-

-The Citadel-

He was inspecting his rifle that had just gotten a bit of an upgrade, testing the feel and looking through the scope several times to be sure.

"Spirits Lindros, you never fail to impress."

"You're one of my valued customers, Nihlus." The Turian weaponsmith Lindros responded with his arms crossed. "Gotta make sure I keep up to date with the best."

"And I greatly appreciate it." Nihlus declared, the gun shrinking down and being placed on his back.

The credits were exchanged along with goodbyes and Nihlus departed.

He let out a sigh of satisfaction as he had finally returned from yet another mission with this one being much more enjoyable then the last.

Rol-Nak, an old Kel-Dorian friend of his had finished conducting his training op with him and was soon to be nominated as a new Spectre.

The mission went off without a hitch, a quick two man bust of a slaving operation within Kel-Dor/Turian shared space.

No casualties with the duo being able to successfully rescue those that had been captured by these slaver scum.

If only they could do the same for the rest of Batarian space.

Those four-eyed slaving bastards have had their Hegemony untouched for the majority of these past few centuries and it was honestly rather infuriating. They had the manpower, the want and the need to take on this scum yet the council had chosen to allow them to fester in their squalor.

Bringing down the Batarian Hegemony was always a personal ambition of Nihlus, one he hoped would eventually see the light of day.

Who knows, maybe there is a species out there that can have the quads to do what needs to be done.

One can dream.

As he continued walking through the streets of the Citadel, a familiar voice from behind gained his attention.

"Well, well. Nihlus, glad to see you're back."

The Turian Spectre turned to see a familiar face, his face breaking out into his species equivalent of a grin.

"Saren!" Nihlus said aloud, walking over to his fellow Spectre, the two grasping arms in firm shake. "Spirits, I haven't seen you in months. Where have you been?"

"Spectre business." Saren remarked with a knowing tone. "You know how they tend to be."

Nihlus could only nod in understanding.

While he and Saren were Spectres, they operated completely independently for the most part as most Spectres tended to do.

Among the Spectres, there is no true ranking among them.

At best, those with the most experience are the ones that are considered to have higher "positions" and "ranks" amongst Spectres.

Other than that, all Spectres operated with full autonomy, answering only to the Council.

"So how long do you figure you'll be back on the Citadel for?" Nihlus questioned, the two walking side by side.

Saren shrugged. "Not entirely sure, truth be told. I was planning on seeing Desolas who is stopping by the Citadel himself."

"Desolas is stopping by?" Nihlus said in surprise. "For what purpose?"

"I think you might have an idea." Saren remarked, looking at his fellow Spectre out of the corner of his eye.

Nihlus only hummed candidly in response.

"And what would you think that would be?"

Saren 'hmphed' in amusement, taking a moment to make sure they were enough distance away from people.

"I've been hearing some interesting facts about this Exploratory Force and their plans in foraying into the unknown regions of the galaxy."

"So you have heard of it."

"Nihlus, what Spectre hasn't heard or even has an inkling of an idea as to what's transpiring." Saren rhetorically countered. "I'm astonished it hasn't been built up to such a maddening degree."

"They did speak on keeping this matter on a need to know basis until the right time." Nihlus stated. "Last I checked, they intend on letting the public know within the coming months."

The face painted Turian Spectre let out a thoughtful hum.

"If your brother has been called in, I may have an idea as to what they will ask of him."

"Oh? And what might that be?"

Nihlus gestured his head in the direction of an eating establishment with Saren following after him. They were given a separate table that was isolated enough where they can speak openly enough without anybody overhearing.

Once seated, Nihlus picked up where he left off.

"The Council has decided not to take any chances once this Expedition is underway." Nihlus said, elbows propped up on the table with his fingers interlaced together. "Councilors Gnost-Dural, Shaak-Ti, Donwal and Leontyne have agreed that after the last few species we had first contact with ended disastrously, they will not be caught off guard again. They're selecting the best for this Expedition. Not just scientists and explorers. But soldiers, naval personnel, pilots, the works."

"I see they've finally learned their lesson after the last few disastrous encounters with lesser species." Saren said derisively.

Nihlus silently looked down to take a bit out of his meal that had been placed before him.

"I wouldn't call it all disastrous." Nihlus said. "Save for the Yahg and Rachni, we have good first contact meetings for the most part."

"You would consider the Quarians, Krogan and Batarians among them?" Saren asked rhetorically.

"You know it's not as simple as you make it out to be." Nihlus countered. "The Krogan were done before our time and the Quarians were abandoned by us. The Batarians however… they could rot for all I care."

"You're willing to overlook the Quarians for unleashing the Geth upon the galaxy?"

"We could have helped them." Nihlus said offhandedly. "But it seemed the Council chose the cowardly route."

"Those vagrants needed to learn a lesson." Saren said darkly.

"So leaving them to the cold emptiness of space without a home is the answer?"

Saren only scoffed, not answering with Nihlus sighing.

"Let's not discuss this matter right now."

The older Spectre nodded, beginning to eat his own meal.

"Still, it's good to know the Council is thinking with their heads this time and not their blind optimism." Saren said. "It's time we show the galaxy that if they are to trifle with us, we are not to be taken lightly."

"Maybe." Nihlus murmured. "Maybe…"

"You still hold reservations?"

"Not on the Expedition." Nihlus said. "But on what we will encounter out there. We may get lucky and be greeted by a new species that wishes to join us in peace. Or we could encounter an entirely hostile race with technology far superior to ours and they could completely decimate us in war."

"Do you truly believe that?" Saren asked incredulously. "We are the most advanced collection-"

"That we are aware of." Nihlus cut his mentor and friend off. "We've been stuck here in our corner of the galaxy enjoying a blissful life of knowing we were the dominant faction. But are we really? The Rachni and Krogan proved how fragile we can be. And who knows how the Yahg would have turned out had we not cut them off."

Saren silently mulled over those words, finding it hard to find a justifiable reason to not worry. However, his former protege had a point.

There was no telling what they would encounter on the Expedition.

He knew in his gut that the Citadel would meet new space faring or even pre-space civilizations. That was just how the Universe was governed.

"Have you been hanging around Salarians again? Maybe some Duros?" Saren wryly asked after a moment of silence, making Nihlus chortle.

"I've hung around enough of both to have some of their tendencies rub off on me, unfortunately." Nihlus jokingly admitted. "Now I question everything to make sure I get the full picture."

"Least you're not foolish about it." Saren praised. "That's a far cry better than what I've seen and dealt with."

"I'll take that unusual compliment." Nihlus said, raising his glass with Saren doing the same.

As the two Spectres ate and caught up, another reunion was taking place in another part of the Citadel.

A ship arriving on the Citadel containing a great deal of tired but hearty scientists and archaeologists was back after an extended excavation to relax.

Among them was a young Asari Maiden who was gazing around the port that she had just walked on to.

It didn't take long for her to hear two girls call out her name and for her to have two bodies nearly tackle her to the ground.

This sensation, however, was very familiar to the Asari with her arms instinctively wrapping themselves around the two that had tackled her.

"Ahsoka, Mission." The Asari happily said, hugging the two close. "I've missed you both so much."

"How do you think we feel, Liara?" Ahsoka said, squeezing her Asari sister/friend. "All we've been doing is train, train, train."

"We needed to see you, so badly." Mission Vao bemoaned, rubbing her forehead against Liara's cheek.

Liara T'soni only chuckled aloud. "I see. So I'm just an excuse to get away from training."

"Absolutely." Both her friends said in mock seriousness.

Their Asari friend only laughed, tightening her hug on the two briefly before letting go.

"Come on." Ahsoka said, looping her arm with Liara's right one. "There's a new TTAZ restaurant that just opened up and I'm starving."

Leading the trio over to said new restaurant, the girls were soon seated and enjoying one another's company whilst digging into their meals.

"I hope you two have been enjoying your time in the academy." Liara said pleasantly.

"It's sooo hard." Vao bemoaned, dramatically leaning against the table. "Masters Plo and Aayla drill us day in and day out."

"Is it not the most prestigious Biotic academy in the galaxy?" Liara asked in amusement.

"One of them." Ahsoka said with her finger raised. "But I know for a fact that the best ones are definitely on Master Plo's homeworld of Dorin. I mean, have you seen their archives? They have scrolls that have been preserved for centuries!"

"That would be a fascinating journey." Liara admitted.

Much as many would claim that the TTAZ people were the most proficient in Biotics, everyone knew that the title of Biotic masters belonged to the Kel-Dor race for a reason. Extensive training, experimentation and a fundamental understanding of Biotics on the pragmatic, spiritual and mental level makes them the premiere Biotic users across the galaxy.

"But what about you?" Mission said, perking up immediately. "You've been digging in fields and caves for two years now. You must have found something to talk about."

"Aside from a few new Prothean ruins, there were several new dig sights around those indescribable Forerunner artifacts."

"Those again?" Ahsoka said in surprise, leaning back into her seat with her arms crossed in contemplation. "Wonder what they're all about."

"We've been trying to understand them for years." Liara said. "Though to no avail. Only a few things have come up and the main predominant factor is that these Forerunner ruins predate the Prothean more than a hundred thousand years ago."

"They're older?" Ahsoka said in slight surprise. "I never knew that."

"It is quite fascinating that their technology and structures are older than the Protheans." Liara remarked. "But we just can't seem to get them to work or activate."

"What do you think it is that's preventing this?" Mission asked with Liara showing that she was none the wiser.

"We do not know." Liara said. "Perhaps we can discover their lost secrets the more we dig."

Ahsoka and Mission only hummed in agreement as food was placed before them.

"Maybe we've just exhausted our areas here." Liara remarked, talking mostly to herself.

"So what're you gonna do?"

"I don't know." Liara said. "But our duty is to the Prothean excavation site. The Forerunner ruins come second."

Ahsoka hummed aloud in thought.

"What about the two of you?" Liara asked. "How has training been going under Master Plo Koon?"

"He's been ramping it up recently." Mission said with a puff of her cheeks, resting her chin against the table. "Told us he needed us ready."

"Ready? Whatever for?" Liara inquired, thrown off by such a statement.

"He wasn't really specific as to why." Ahsoka admitted with a shrug of her shoulders. "Just that he and Master Aayla are gonna be upping out training."

"And he was weirdly specific about it." Mission brought up, scrunching up her face in thought. "Something about us being ready in the next three years or something like that."

Liara couldn't help but freeze at the particular mention of the three years Vao just brought up for the training her two friends were to undergo.

"Wh-why did Master Plo say that time specifically?" Liara asked with her two friends shrugging in response.

Ahsoka and Mission both shrugged at the same time.

"Not sure but he did mention something about real challenges after those three years." Mission remarked.

"As if training wasn't challenging enough." Ahsoka said with puffed cheeks.

Liara glanced around for the briefest of moments, gauging to see if anyone was listening before she leaned forward.

"There's something I wish to tell the both of you." Liara said in a low voice, almost conspiratorial.

This of course caught her friends attention in an instant.

They seldom ever saw their friend behave in such a manner and whatever it was she wanted to say must be pretty serious.

"What is it?" Vao asked in intrigue.

"I am unsure if you are aware of this or not," Liara said, eyeing them both. "But there are some major developments occurring by the Council."

Ahsoka and Mission exchanged quizzical looks with one another.

"What does The Council have to do with this?" Ahsoka inquired.

Liara hesitated slightly before nodding to herself. "The Council is planning for an ambitious expedition within the next three years. An expedition into the unknown and unexplored regions of our galaxy. Within the next three years."

This got quite the reactions out of her two friends as their jaws dropped and eyes widened. Liara quickly tapped her fingers to her lips rapidly in order to remind them both to keep quiet about their incoming reactions.

"Are you serious?" Ahsoka whispered excitedly.

"Yes, and if I am to take a guess, Master Plo Koon is among those selected to go on this expedition." Liara said with a small smile.

"Goddess." Mission murmured. "So that's why Master Plo is ticking up our training, isn't it?"

"There is a likely chance." Liara agreed. "He is the Grand Master of the Biotics Academy on the Citadel and in Council Space. He was possibly among the first to be approached."

"But if he's been chosen, why train us up then?" Ahsoka inquired. "You don't think that…"

"He might be preparing you both." Liara surmised. "And taking you with him when the Expedition is officially announced."

"But why us?" both her friends asked at the same time.

Liara only smiled kindly at the two.

"I think it should be rather obvious." Liara said knowingly. "You are his prized pupils. The future of his academy and Biotics in general. Why wouldn't he take you?"

Ahsoka and Mission appeared quite bashful after hearing such praise until the latter's expression changed into that of curiosity.

"Say… Liara."

"Hmmm?"

"How do you know about this Expedition?"

"Oh." Liara flushed slightly at the question. "A majority of my team, during our excavation of the Prothean dig site was selected for the upcoming Expedition. They believed that since there is an assembled group of individuals familiar with excavating ruins and old technology, they may as well recruit the one's already on the job."

Ahsoka grinned at that. "Well, looks like you qualified by default cause of your talent."

Their Asari friend smiled kindly at hearing that while dipping her head down.

"Did…" Mission suddenly appeared hesitant. "Did you hear from your mother about any of this?"

Liara kept her head down as she shook it left and right.

"Haven't spoken to her in a while."

Ahsoka and Mission gazed upon their friend with sad expressions, both reaching out to grasp her hands.

Liara silently looked back up to them with a sad smile yet her eyes conveyed gratitude towards them both.

As the trio of friends conversed and ate with one another, within the chamber of the Council, they were ratifying and finalizing the long list of individuals that were to be involved within the Exploratory Expeditionary.

At the top of the list were the key individuals that they had listed down that would play major parts in leading the Expedition overall.

The Citadel Exploratory Expedition Leadership Council.

Nensel Jul The Duros Leader of the Expedition who is to coordinate the overall trajectory of their foray into the unexplored regions of the Galaxy.

Desolas Arterius, the Turian Military Commander of all Expeditionary Forces.

Hetchkee of the Kel-Dor armada was selected as the Naval Admiral with his partner Droyo Thaok of the Drell race as the Grand General.

For an Asari Matriarch, the venerable Ishara was selected to be the newly anointed Pathfinder of the Expedition Team. The title of Pathfinder meant she would be one of the leading figures in primarily meeting new species and either teaching them how to assimilate to the Citadels customs or learning of the cultures of the new species.

The Head/Director of Science was the influence mad Salarian genius of Lumont Hayjer.

And at last, the Captain of the Core Spire, the flagship of the Expeditionary force was the famed pilot and captain Pag'Hewu, a green skinned Twi'lek being a graduate of the Biotics Academy on the Citadel.

With this roster of some of the best of the best that represents the various Citadel Species, the Council had a growing sense of confidence and assurance as they at last finalized the Expeditionary Exploratory Force of the Citadel.

Whilst they knew others would join in their growing list of selected individuals, once this Expedition became public, there would be an influx of recruits and volunteers.

But for now, they were satisfied with what they have right now.

They would continue on with their daily lives, planning for the future and such, continuing to remain blissfully unaware as to the goings on within the unexplored regions of space from their perspective.

And speaking of which…

-UNSC Midway-

Admiral Preston Cole stood within the war room of the flagship of his fleet, the Punic-class Supercarrier Midway.

With him were several other high ranking Naval officers like his good friends Admiral Ackbar, Commander Raddus, Captain Grun Whell, and Captain James Cutter.

These five high rankings officers were gathered together after a brief but intense campaign over the colony world of Eden Prime.

Earlier in the month of August, Covenant scouts were spotted on the planet surface indicating a coming invasion.

This in turn led to the arrival of a sizable Covenant force which resulted in a heated ground engagement which ended up being a hard fought and bloody UNSC victory.

It was a welcomed victory after the devastating loss they had suffered on Alzoc III back in February of this year. The battle was two months long but all they had was 1 million casualties added to their growing list of losses.

This was a damnably hard war though that should come as an obvious expectation.

It's war after all.

Currently, they were discussing their next course of action primarily the trajectory of the Covenant and what they can do in countering their aggressive push across the outer colonies.

"We can only hold out for so long." Ackbar stated. "Too frequent of losses and not enough victories."

"Agreed." Raddus grumbled out. "Even with our victory on Eden Prime, we lost 40 percent of our forces."

"It's been primarily defensive." Cutter pointed out. "Every single engagement that has occurred was done on our turf. The Covenant always finds us."

Cole hummed aloud. "A telling sign that no matter how far we have come, there's still much we have to work on."

"Are there no means of finding them?" Raddus inquired. "We can't just allow them to keep stumbling upon one planet after another. Even when they lose, it really isn't that much of a setback if they are to simply move on and find another world."

Grun Whell let out several growls and barks which made the collective frown.

"True." Cutter murmured. "But that also exposes us to risk. Some of our best have deduced that any tech that's salvaged from the Covenant is traceable."

Grun continued on.

"It's only a working theory." Ackbar stated. "We won't know for sure for the foreseeable future."

"We don't have the luxury for relying on theories at this very moment." Cole said grimly. "They may come into play at a later time and date, hopefully sooner than later, but right now we need to consider more immediate actions."

The group continued discussing the matters of war, one of many across UNSC controlled space.

All the while, near the planet of Mars, ONI operatives with top scientists are studying a strange structure of unknown origin and design.

It is unlike anything they had seen before, at first comparing it to other ancient structures that had been uncovered scattered throughout the colonies.

But this one was distinctly different.

They just needed to figure out what it was.

And as many events were in motion at once, on the planet of Reach, a man of ambition gazed upon multiple video files that were captured and showed the escalating war across the stars.

In particular, he was reviewing the footage of specific individuals who were caught performing acts of strength, speed and superhuman feats across multiple battlefields.

The man sneered in contempt at the sight of them all.

He recognized her work.

Being someone who had multiple connections within ONI, James Ackerman was well aware as to what and who these armored beings were.

Being the liaison between ONI and the army allowed him such awareness of the more unethical aspects of ONI.

And that would be putting it mildly.

Ackerman had been well aware of the Spartan-II program for a number of years by this point, having heard some rather fascinating facts about them.

The man scoffed to himself,

These Spartan-II's were nothing more than prototypes to what will succeed them.

It may take another year or two, but Ackerman was completely confident in his work and that ONI will approve of it.

If they gave the approval of kidnapping children, then recruiting them, particularly those with nowhere to go, shouldn't cause that much of a stir either.

Alright, been a slight while but yeah, at last.

I meant to get this out way, WAY sooner but a litany of things got in my way.

For starters, new story I got with our comrade Jebest4781 called I'm Nobody which I want you guys to check out.

And second, I got a brand new job that's taking up a lot of my time right now and is limiting my writing process for the most part so I'll need a bit of time to readjust. Especially after the writing bender J and I went off for two months straight, getting 24 chapters out with 425K+ words in that amount of time.

After we decided to calm down and take a breather from our newest story, not gonna lie, coming back to this story and other works had made my brain go "Oh God, I forgot how to write this one".

So gonna need to just snap back into it really.

May take a bit of time but hopefully will get back into the groove of it. Spirit Unto Dawn is another story BSX and I will be returning to soon enough.

It's just that Bullet gave me a suggestion for a very short 8 to 10 chapter story that we will be getting to very soon which holds a great deal of importance once it's released so keep your eyes open for it.

On top of that, BSX had also concocted an idea wherein he, me and Jebest4781 will eventually get around to working on.

Lots of future projects and content in the works. All I ask for comrades is patience for good things come to those who wait.

Anywho, good to be back for the most part. Hope I can semi-update consistently with this one and my other stories and collaborations.

Rate Read and Review and as Always Have Nice Day.