In between systems a ship drifted, having rabbeted out of the system it had occupied mere minutes before the destruction of the proud station that once stood as a testament to a single man's resolve. The Cerberus cruiser would have survived if they hadn't attempted to return after word that the offending ships were breaking off. As it stood, the ship had nearly been consumed in the nuclear fire that had cleansed the system of Jack Harper's efforts.
On the bridge, many of the systems were destroyed, almost 90% of the crew was dead or dying the remaining faced the choice of death now by their hands or death later as the vacuum of space slowly reclaimed the stardust they were all made of. Amidst the chaos, the Illusive Man sat on the bridge of his ship, a cigarette in one hand and a glass of the finest whiskey humans had produced in the other.
A uniformed officer turned to him, his voice underlined by a trace of synthetics, "Sir, the core is nothing more than slag and radiation and backups will fail within days. The hull has been fused in many places and communication is impossible."
The Illusive Man just nodded and did his best from shooting the man. If he shot the crewman then his punishment wouldn't be seen through, letting them die slowly would be their punishment. With no way off the ship and no way to contact anyone else, he knew they all rode in their coffin as they tried to follow his orders to repair the ship.
Rising from his chair, he turned towards his quarters, "Continue to attempt repairs, leave those too irradiated to die but keep trying, I don't care if you all starve before it is done." He left the bridge and locked the door to his quarters, confident the conditioning and obedience implants would ensure their deaths.
He sat at the desk he had used to direct his corporation years ago, this having been his flagship while the Minuteman station had been constructed. Finishing the last of his whiskey, some of the most expensive in the galaxy, he put his cigarette out, again, more expensive than most any other trade commodity, and picked up the pistol he had left. Activating it and looking it over he mused that his orders would ensure that his crew died a slow death for their failure. Nothing to do about that now. He could feel the nausea that radiation sickness caused threatening to force the whiskey out of his stomach.
Silently cursing the NSSC for destroying what he had created and cursed again for executing the subterfuge so effectively, he put the pistol to his head and pulled the trigger. The Illusive Man's corpse slumped over, his once brilliant and scheming mind now splattered on the wall. Cerberus, like the men left on the ship, would die a slow death.
Shangri La – Laboratory
Wrex's eyes narrowed at the comparatively diminutive Unggoy that was explaining the work being done. He was getting annoyed because a lot more of what he was being told was more over his head than he had thought. He had known he knew nearly nothing of the science that would be needed to cure the genophage but he had quickly come to the conclusion that they could be describing their latest cosmetic gene therapy and he'd be none the wiser. The only thing that had kept him from hurting these scientists was that the Salarian that had been with Shepard was doing what he could to translate. He turned to him now expecting an explanation.
The fast talking Salarian took a moment, "They are describing the coding they've done to ascertain the changes made to the original Krogan genome. So far they have determined each change made to the original as well as subsequent adjustments." Mordin blinked at Wrex, waiting to see if that satisfied him.
"So they know what original Krogan DNA looks like?" He was pissed that the Salarians had been changing the genophage. That was one thing that he had understood from these NSSC scientists. The Krogan would have evolved past the genophage. Part of him was amused and pleased that they still needed to be seen as a threat. But mostly he was just pissed.
Mordin blinked before going on, "No, changes cumulative, original DNA pattern is still beyond them but having identified the locations and and nature of the changes will allow them to work only on altered areas to effect cure."
Wrex thought for a moment, "Couldn't you just tell them what you did and they undo it or are you horrified that they are going to cure us as the rest of your damn race?"
"Not at all, new variables present new possibilities. You are in best position to unite the Krogan, more so now that you are here. Puts you in position of strength with other Krogan more so than you had before. Furthermore, changes made by my team still only built on changes made by previous teams."
Mordin took a deep breath before the next statement, "Admire Krogan, quick evolution and hardiness led to numerous teams needed to ensure continued effectiveness of Genophage."
Wrex just grunted, he had thought the genophage had been a one-shot but hearing that his people would evolve past it was a point of pride. Pride in his race wasn't something he had really expected after all these years.
A hologram flickered into life in front of them, displaying a Sangheili in a human white lab coat. Wrex and Mordin both registered surprise. Mordin took a step back and began scanning while Wrex pulled out a hidden shotgun. Before he could level his weapon though, the gun beeped and ejected the heat clip and Mordin's Omni-tool froze with a curious blue screen displayed.
The hologram addressed them, "No need to be violent. There are very sensitive pieces of equipment in here and if you see fit to begin blasting them because of my appearance it would be inconvenient."
Mordin tapped at his Omni-tool through this before giving up, "Must be AI, reactions and cyber-attacks too effective and fast for organic response times." Tilting his head and thinking for a moment before he went on, "The NSSC AI have names do they not? What is yours?"
"Hmmm…It's customary to introduce yourself first when you are in another's territory but seeing how I already know who both of you are, my appelation is Yt 'Nradom. I am based on the persona of an admittedly ancient Sangheili scientist. Long ago the Sangheili had those, before the Covenant." The hologram made a motion to bow during the introduction, straightening at the end to wait for their response. He saw to a multitude of processes in the labs while he conducted the exchange with these two.
Wrex stepped forward, "So what are you doing to cure the genophage?" He didn't really have an opinion on AI outside of the Geth but since the Citadel Council hated the idea of AI and the NSSC was working on a genophage cure he decided he would play nice for now.
"I'm working with these scientists," he motioned into the lab at the dozen or so scientists working, "on the cure you need for your people. We are making considerable progress as well Krogan."
Mordin cut in, "I am intrigued by your methods, would love to work with you. I have experience with the Genophage. Willing to help." Wrex growled quietly at hearing Mordin admit to his hand in the genophage out loud again. It had been a sore topic when Mordin was introduced to him but after being bombarded in the labs by things he didn't understand, he admitted to himself that the Salarian was useful and besides, Shepard trusted him and he trusted her judgement.
Yt shook his head, "I must apologize Salarian, I'm aware of your role in the genophage's alteration. Shepard's logs have been distributed among the relevant personnel in the NSSC however, as of yet I cannot grant you access to the lab equipment. While I would appreciate an experienced mind in the endeavor, we will have to make due for the time being."
"Why can't the Salarian help? If it means a cure faster you should take the help AI…" Wrex growled out his response.
"I would Battlemaster, however there's much that political posturing the Council and Assembly has to do before any sort of cooperative agreement is made. I do not like it but I must still abide by it. Besides, are you not satisfied that we are working on it? Mordin can undoubtedly tell you of the progress we have made thus far."
Mordin nodded, "Yes, their progress is much more than our labs could have made in the time given to them. Not enough data to make an estimate but cure closer than it has ever been. You don't have much time to unite the Krogan at this rate Wrex, Krogan need to be ready."
The hologram nodded, "True, we should have a cure within months if our progress so far is any indication and I have heard that you are working to unite the Krogan. Tell me Battlemaster, will the Krogan be ready for the cure when we are finished with it?"
Sensing the shift in the conversation he hadn't been expecting, Wrex got defensive, "You leave the Krogan up to me! I've been bringing the clans together for years before you all showed up and I'll be damned if I let you talk down to me. The Krogan will be ready for the cure, we had a civilization once. We built instead of just broke things, I've seen what is left of our art. We were a proud race before we bombed ourselves into a radioactive hellhole and I'll drag every clan back to our glory if it kills me."
The AI's hologram paused for a moment, the Krogan deserved the respect to finish his thoughts before another hologram took shape next to him, this time it was Ambassador Ryder's.
"AI Nradom just clued me in on your conversation Wrex. Are you satisfied with what you've seen?" Ambassador Ryder's hologram maintained eye contact while he waited for the answer.
Changing his stance, Wrex answered, "Humph, I've seen enough ambassador. You're working on the cure, that much I can see." Stepping closer to the hologram, "You'll have my support and the Krogans with me against the Reapers but I have a condition."
The visage of Ambassador Ryder perked up at that, "Very well, but before we negotiate, I think it should be done in person. I'll bring you to my office before I leave for Virmire."
Before Wrex and Mordin could voice another question or complaint, they were surrounded by light for a moment accompanied by a feeling of vertigo. For that moment they were unsure of where they were before the light faded and they stood in Ambassador Ryder's office. They looked around at the room, a mix of modern NSSC design and technology with 19th century Earth stylings as seen by the table and four chairs situated in the center of the room against a large window with a view of almost half of the ring.
"I felt that we should meet face to face if we are to talk politics and such." He motioned for them to sit at the table in his office, "The chair will hold you Wrex, don't worry about that."
Grunting, Wrex picked a seat and sat, "Interesting light show." He was a little more cautious now, realizing that the NSSC could in all probability throw him off the station if they wanted.
"Yes, well, it's a perk to being an Ambassador on this ring, most personnel here don't have the clearance to do that sort of thing. Now, on to business!" He sat across from Wrex but he noticed Mordin continued to stand. Ambassador Ryder figured it was since he didn't represent his race or Wrex in any political way and accepted that the Salarian would stay out of their discussion.
"Straight to business Ambassador. My condition is this, the Krogan will support you against the Reapers but the clans will still take time to pull together. I have the females backing me and some clans have already joined Urdnot but it will take years to pull everyone together as it is now. I want Fleetmaster 'Chahom's ship parked above Clan Urdnot while I get everyone together." Wrex leaned back, waiting for the human's response.
Ambassador Ryder thought for a moment, using his neural lance to send out the request and notice to the Fleetmaster, while the NSSC saw the Krogan as a race needing help, he knew they more or less just needed a push in the right direction and had already been prepared to help in a large degree. "I understand that having that ship there would be a hell of a show of force for the Krogans." He received the response from the contacts he had sent for, "I can grant you that as long as you understand that we won't fire on any other Krogan or Citadel race unless they present an imminent threat that you can't deal with. Reapers are fair game though."
Wrex laughed, "Good enough for me. I just want the other clans to understand the sort of strength that the Krogans can attract. We had a hell of a legacy once, I intend to see the Krogan get that back." Standing up, he walked around the table to the Ambassador who had now stood as well and held his hand out, "Humans shake hands to make these sorts of deals official right?"
Ambassador Ryder took his hand, immediately noticing the amount of force the Krogan was putting behind the gesture and returning it in kind, some of the augmentations he had received in his past straining, "You're right Wrex, we have a deal.I happen to prefer the less formal route that doesn't include a pile of treaties. Fleetmaster 'Chahom will escort you back to Tuchanka so you can pick up where you left off."
Wrex let go, impressed the human could put as much as he had behind the handshake, "Glad we could come to an agreement Ambassador, I'll be in touch."
The Ambassador watched Wrex and Mordin walk from the room before he flexed his hand. He had the usual augmentations that NSSC military received, nothing fancy, but Krogans were strong. He was glad his hand survived the simple handshake. Calling up the appropriate coordinates, he activated the transport system. Wrex would be at the shuttles and Mordin would be back at the Normandy.
Sitting back in his chair at his desk, Ryder looked out across the ring he spoke quietly to himself, "Two races down, now we have to convince the Citadel Council to play nice. I think that's going to take more than a firm handshake and a ship."
He sat back up, he had other preparations to make for his trip to Virmire. He had rather enjoyed the dealings with Urdnot Wrex and thought he would probably enjoy the rest of the Council races less.
Shangri La – Docking Station
The Arbiter waited near the dock that held the Normandy. He had heard of Commander Shepard's plans to return to earth and wanted to bid her farewell in person. Her efforts in this galaxy had earned his respect. In fact, he had been the main force behind authorizing the distribution of their technology to her. He had no doubt that she would make effective use of it against the Reapers.
The sound of voices caught his attention before he was distracted by the transport system depositing a mildly surprised Mordin Solus next to him.
"Greetings Mordin, I trust Urdnot Wrex was satisfied with what he saw." The Arbiter was glad that negotiations with the Krogan had taken a turn for the better.
After Mordin's eyes adjusted after the transport, he addressed the Arbiter, "Yes, yes, work on the cure is fascinating. Your scientists have made much progress. Am disappointed that I am not allowed to help but understand your caution given diplomatic landscape."
The Arbiter looked to where Shepard and her crew would arrive from, he knew of Mordin's hand in the alteration of the genophage. While normally he wouldn't have allowed someone like him anywhere near the research, Mordin's acceptance of the new situation spoke well for him personally and Commander Shepard's acceptance of him helped sway him. Unlike the reaction of the other Salarians so far. He saw the possibility for a large amount of difficulty in getting the Salarians as a whole to back them.
"Shepard approaches, you would leave with them to Earth?" The Arbiter changed the subject, just to keep things civil.
"For now, yes. Too much chance for a negative reaction from the leaders of the Alliance. I will support her and help show them the real threat. Not a time for petty power struggles or denial. Reapers are coming." Shepard came into view after Mordin said that. She waved and Mordin returned the gesture.
Arriving in front of them, Shepard had been talking to Nick as they walked up, her crew following close behind engaged in their own conversations. Now they stood in front of the Arbiter, Nick spoke first, "Arbiter? I didn't expect to see you here. I didn't think we'd warrant such an auspicious send-off."
Shepard looked over the Arbiter's armor, appreciating the ancient design, "I have to agree with Nick here, I understand you're pretty close to the top leadership in the NSSC. I'm flattered."
The Arbiter clasped his fist against his chest and bowed his head in respect, "Not at all Commander Shepard, Nickolas has conveyed your role in the protection of your galaxy. Few can say they have the strength of will and honor that you have." Shepard shifted on her feet a small bit, uncomfortable with that sort of praise.
"I wanted to see you off to pay my respects to a fellow warrior and upholder of the Mantle." The Arbiter said in his deep, somber voice.
Shepard recognized the sincerity, "Thank you Arbiter, Nick had time to tell me about your hand in the your own history. I don't think I'm quite on the same level as yours since you had a hand in literally saving your galaxy but I am honored you would see us off."
"It was only proper. Commander Austra, I authorized you to accompany Commander Shepard in her efforts against the Reapers, your ship shall accompany you cloaked under your command. Keep it cloaked so as to not pull the Systems Alliance's attention to it and not the real foe."
He looked to Commander Shepard, "The Forward Unseen will provide support should you need it Commander. The Shining Dawn will take you to the relay closest to Earth. Stay vigilant, we still have battles to fight and our foe has had hundreds of millions of years to prepare." With that, the Arbiter stepped aside to allow Commander Shepard unimpeded access to her ship.
Shepard looked up at the ship and then to Mordin, nodding to him as he fell in with the crew, the severity of the Arbiter's words hitting home, "Thank you Arbiter. I will keep doing everything I can to protect us from the Reapers."
"That is all I would ask Commander, until next time." He saluted her with a fist to his chest again before activating the transport system and disappearing in a flash of light.
Shepard blinked away the after image from the bright light, her visage serious after the brief reminder of the Reapers, "Well everyone, it seems we have work to do. Time to go talk to the Alliance."
Her crew boarded the Normandy, each of them excited and a bit apprehensive at the thought of the way the galaxy was shaping up.
Shangri La - Classified Docking Bay
Takashi glanced over the readouts as the Vanguard lowered into the gravity cradle that would hold the ship for the time being. He could see the Cerberus sitting in the dock next to his, having arrived well before him due to its slip space drive. He finally felt the small nudge and heard a change in the ship as the shore power took over and began to run diagnostics.
His neural lance chimed, Hades was contacting him, "So you finally made it huh Takashi? That ship can put on a show but it moves about as slow as those Citadel ships."
Takashi laughed at the remark, mainly because it was true. The engine tech was strictly Mass Effect and it did feel slow, especially since he had to use the relays, "Well what did you expect? They built the engines, it hits like an asteroid strike but I'll be damned if I'm the one to give them slipspace drives before the brass decides. Truth be told, I'm pretty eager to get back on the Cerberus, if only to actually be able to move again."
He looked up, thinking for a moment, "Or just have some peace and quiet...this ship is full of VI's but it still requires a hell of a lot of attention."
There was a pause before Hades responded, after a moment Takashi wondered what he was doing, "No need it seems Takashi. I just received orders, I'm to accompany you on the Vanguard." Takashi sighed to himself, no rest for the wicked it seemed.
As his AI companion finished his statement, Takashi's comms chimed and Admiral Hood's face filled part of the bridge, he snapped to attention, "Command Takashi, I have an assignment for you. Hades will accompany you on the Vanguard to the location I'm transmitting to you."
Takashi looked at the confirmation after the shipboard VI confirmed the delivery of data, "You are being sent in the Vanguard to assist in securing the area for diplomatic meetings. If necessary, I am clearing you for aggressive action against any force that threatens the talks."
"Acknowledged sir, we'll leave as soon as Hades is done transferring to this ship. Will we have an escort? It will take a little while for this ship to get there on its mass effect core only." Takashi answered.
Admiral Hood was quick to answer, "No, let's see how fast it can get there. Gauge what the engines can do compared to the Citadel. There is still time before they start and we have a good ways to go to understanding those engines and the mass effect technology in general. Hades is tasked with monitoring and logging data about the engines in detail for that purpose. Is there anything else Commander Takashi?"
"No sir." Takashi began preparing a few commands to straighten some things out on the ship.
"Hades has the details of the mission, good luck." At that Admiral Hood nodded and cut the connection and Takashi pinged a connection to Hades to see where he was at.
After a few pings, Takashi was about to contact Shangri La's systems to figure out where his AI companion was, his Ai companion seemed rather distracted today. When the bridge door finally opened, Hades' hard light body stepped in.
"You rang?" The AI said jokingly as he stood in a confident pose in the doorway dressed in a black three piece suit that wouldn't be out of place at a 19th century formal meeting of all things.
Takashi looked him over, "I had worried you had gotten lost my friend! How did you get a hard light body, and why, oh WHY, did you chose THAT outfit?"
Hades chuckled, "Not just a Hard Light body, I have a monitor to fly around in now. Comes with the Hard Light emitters so i figured I would put them to good use." He seemed to decide to ignore the remark on his apparel.
"Now why would anyone go and do something like that? Do the engineers not know you?" Takashi was happy with this news, it meant his long-time friend would be able to come with into a lot more situations now.
"I guess it was just my charming good looks." While saying this, his face changed to reflect the more horrible depictions of the ancient Greek god before snapping back to a more traditional greek face. Crooked nose, curly brown hair, and piercing hazel eyes that glowed with an inner light.
"Well no matter, get settled Hades. We're leaving. You have your orders about the engines right?"
Hades walked to stand next to the human, "Of course, I've already integrated. The VI are shut off and I've got a multitude of monitoring processes on the tech. Admiral Hood will have his intel." the AI smirked as he looked around the bridge, quite unnecessary considering the way he interfaced with the ship.
Takashi nodded as he sent various commands to his ship and the Shangri La docking systems. The Vanguard quickly rose from her short-lived cradle and took off from the ring, entering FTL as soon as they had left the atmosphere.
'Time to play babysitter again it seems.' Takashi thought as the stars swept past them.
Hoc System - Low orbit around Jarfor gas giant
Fleet Admiral Kanmorr watched his tactical read out very closely. The fleet he had amassed after the chaos that had struck his world now afforded him command of more ships and firepower than he had ever gotten a glimpse of before. He might have felt an ironic gratitude if he hadn't deluded himself into thinking it was simply supposed to be that way.
As it was, he smiled to himself as his passive probe relayed back to him the movement of the Citadel assets on the surface of Virmire. He was eager to attack and with what he had he would probably be able to strike a crippling blow to the races he hated so much but he stayed his hand. He wanted the members from the newcomers to be there when he fed them all the high-density slugs from orbit. For now his fleet maintained a tight orbit in the radiation belt of the gas giant, hiding his fleet in the interference of the overactive planet.
He had been glad that one of his old crewmates, now a weapons officer on one of the ships in his fleet, knew an Asari that had a child by him years ago. The Fleet Admiral had originally thought him weak years ago when he had heard for caring about one of the races they routinely traded as slaves. Now though, the old attachment, one that his friend had quickly become disillusioned with, was still felt on some part by the Asari who was newly stationed on the Destiny Ascension. The intel on where this meeting was to take place had been a happy surprise and another piece of the puzzle that the Fleet Admiral felt would reveal him as the leader of the galaxy soon.
His smile widened, 'Don't be late now NSSC, we've got a little door prize for you.'
Virmire - Equatorial Diplomatic Base
Valern read the report the STG operative had handed him although he read over it with less interest than when reading the system reports. Besides a peculiar gas giant emitting various radiation near the star there was nothing worth mentioning when they had arrived in the system. Now he scanned over the report on the progress of the impromptu diplomatic building.
The roughly oval building two hundred meters in length, one seventy five wide, and close to seventy five tall stood in the center of two semicircles of landing pads. Roughly sized for frigates, they were where the delegate's ships would touch down. Not only to provide transport but protection if something went ary. If all else failed, there were dreadnaughts from each race in orbit along with various cruisers and frigates as well. It would be a hard target to reach for most any enemy and that was if anyone found out about the location, it was a closely guarded secret.
"You have accomplished everything we asked in the six days allotted to you, it shall reflect on my report. It seems the base is as ready as it will be." Handing the report back to the operative whose name he had not gotten and congratulating him, he turned and walked towards his ship. He would inform the other Councilors and then send the signal that the location was ready to receive the NSSC delegation.
The Salarian Councilor's mind wandered, 'Even if we do intend to join our efforts with them, better that this is on the Council's timetable rather than set by an outside force.'
That had been important for all of the Councilors and their governments. They had all, some grudgingly, agreed on the data. The Reapers were shaping up to be a real threat, and the Council was willing to move forward with an agenda shaped around the defense against as well as countermeasures for said enemy. The just had ensured that the NSSC didn't forget that they were still dealing with a Galaxy-spanning government that had existed for longer than some of the NSSC races had apparently been in space. Nothing as overt and gaudy as they might have done on the Citadel but nonetheless, their experience and history would be a force of its own.
That history was what Valern glanced at momentarily as he passed the various murals and statues, recalling small bits of information about each piece before moving on. He was sure that it sent the right message. They didn't have giant ships or planet-sized rings. They had only their history with which to impress the other diplomats.
He stopped for a moment before leaving the building, looking back at the small oval amphitheatre, the Council's history surrounding it. Not obtrusive or gaudy but enough to impress that they had learned hard lessons as well. Turning back to the ramp leading to his ship, he felt confident as he brought up his comms system connection on his Omni-tool and began establishing connections. His original doubts about these talks seeming to fade into the distance between him and the Citadel.
Diplomatic Quarters - Galaxy-class Dauntless
In the dark areas between stars roughly four light years from the planet Virmire, the ship Dauntless sat waiting for the communication from the Citadel Council that would allow them to dispatch their frigate, the Tempered Steel, with the various diplomats a board.
Rear Admiral Campbell stood on the bridge of his ship, having been moved into what was a Captain's position as punishment for his conduct originally at the Citadel. He would not meet any Ambassador for quite some time and while he understood the punitive measures, he still resented them a small amount. 'It could have been worse, I could have been forced to retire. I will recover from this, after all, I'm still pretty much standing next to history in the making.'
A voice began breaking him from his thoughts as he realized his comms officer was reporting that the signal had been received. After four days of waiting, the diplomats at least, would be cleared to leave the ship. Although they would still wait a few hours so it didn't seem that we were waiting at their doorstep so to speak. Even though they quite literally were.
Tactical spoke up after Campbell had passed his message to Ambassador Ryder, "Sir, there are whispers again near that starside gas giant. Too much interference but I think it warrants a look."
The Rear Admiral thought for a moment before he made up his mind, "The Council wants to run this show, that includes security. If the Citadel Council doesn't see fit to investigate these readings then anything that happens will be their fault. Still, forward a report to Ambassador Ryder since he will be going down there but otherwise, maintain comms silence."
The officer acknowledged before transmitting the data and moving back into his routine, thinking nothing more of it.
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Deeper in the ship, heading for the frigate that would take them where they were to go, Ambassador Ryder received the information through his neural lance without missing a step. He considered his options and came to much the same conclusion as the Rear Admiral with one difference. When he met the Executive Officer, or XO, of the frigate Tempered Steel standing at the base of the ramp leading into the ship, he stopped for a moment.
The XO stood straighter and saluted the diplomatic party, Ryder returning the salute before asking, "Tell me, this ship's hard light shields, can they be projected around an area other than just the ship?"
Being familiar with the traditional capabilities and expectations of his ship, this question still caught him off guard. He replied quickly however, "The Hard Light emitters allow for a fair bit of flexibility Ambassador. I will have to consult with engineering but I'm fairly certain we could alter the shape to most anything we might need to a certain extent."
The Ambassador smiled, "Excellent, thank you." Leaving a briefly confused officer as they moved into the vessel.
'Any attack and we will have little to no warning but I'd like to make sure we can do our best to ensure no harm is done. Never hurts to put our best face forward in politics does it?' He was looking forward to this meeting despite all the complications so far.
Ambassador Ryder looked around the table to the other delegates as they reviewed data and discussed the different possibilities for the talks. They had arrived at Virmire and were now in orbit although they were hung up. The Commander of the ship speaking with the Citadel's ground crew, apparently they didn't expect a discrepancy between what the NSSC classified as a frigate and what the Council considered one. Not very exciting for the Ambassadors but highlighted some differences they had come to expect.
His gaze now settled on the Geth platform that he anticipated would be part of a larger argument. There had been some dulling of the suspicion from the Quarians after they had found out the NSSC was talking to the Geth. Although if truth be told, Ambassador Ryder would have to admit it was only because Cortana had shown how easy it would be for her to contain any attack by the synthetics. They didn't appreciate her taking control of seven of their ships at the same time but they appreciated that it meant that she could in all likelihood handle a Geth attack.
"Legion, you've been rather quiet ever since you agreed to join us. Care to share you thoughts on what we could expect?" the Ambassador was curious.
Legion shifted the flaps on his head for a moment, flaring them out as he considered, "Ambassador, review of previous diplomatic events between the Citadel and new races hold no precedent for the events that have transpired following the NSSC revealing their presence. There is insufficient data at this time to make judgements."
Ambassador Ryder was amused, of all those present it seemed Legion was the only one that might actually be taking everything at face value. 'Even I have preconceptions on how this will play out, I wonder if the Geth are on to something here or just not used to voicing unfounded scenarios.'
"So you have nothing to say on the matter? Just waiting for more input?" He would try to get something out of the Geth.
"We do have a number of scenarios we predict could play out but given the current political position the Council is in, there is insufficient data to reliably predict what will occur."
Ambassador Ryder caught something about that remark, "I think you misunderstood me Legion, I didn't ask for a prediction, simply the opinion of the Geth on the matter. I know you all must be thinking of how it may turn out. I'm curious to hear."
Legion's head flaps moved quickly for a number of seconds before laying flat, "Given the evidence of the suggestive influence the Citadel construct may have on the minds of organics in relation to many of the issues, we have predicted a number of likely scenarios. Two of which have the highest probability, although unsubstantiated still."
Ambassador Ryder leaned in, interested in what the Geth had to say.
"The first; acceptance of Reaper data closely correlates with cooperation with minimal subversion. The second; non-acceptance of Reaper data strongly predicts mistrust and subversion." The light in the center of Legion's 'head' moved around slightly as the flaps on his head stayed still.
Ambassador Ryder waited a moment to see if there was more, "Thank you Legion, I hope for the first scenarios, that they will accept the facts we've given them. They are supported by one of their Spectre's accounts after all."
"Shepard-Commander's involvement has been factored into our calculations, largest unknown factor is presence of the Council in location other than Citadel Presidium. If NSSC suspicions of Reaper influence on Citadel is correct the Geth have no data to base prediction of behavior on in this situation."
'Now I see, that's the biggest unknown for them, any of us really. No one knows what, if any, effect that space station has on everyone that lives there.' He hoped that was what was going on. It would be simpler if some ancient evil brainwashing was going on rather than good old fashioned prejudice.
"Well, let's hope they are much more reasonable about things. Now, I do have a question that pertains to you specifically Legion. How do-" He was interrupted by his comms.
"I apologize, we'll have to continue at a later date." Legion's head flaps moved slightly as he watched the Ambassador take a few steps away to address the other Ambassadors.
"It seems they've figured out the discrepancy and we invited to land in a few moments. Shall we?" Ambassador Ryder motioned to the door and the ambassadors for the NSSC began to move to the airlock they would be leaving from.
Virmire - Equatorial Diplomatic Base
Councilor Sparatus walked out of the comms station in the back of the oval-shaped building their ships were parked around. He had finally cleared the NSSC "frigate" for clearance. The Salarians that had planned out the base hadn't been informed of the disparity between the size of the ship classes the NSSC had. 580 meters long would have landed the NSSC diplomatic ship squarely into cruiser class if it were a Turian or any other Council race's ship.
Approaching the other three Councilors near the circular table in the center of the floor of the base, Councilor Tevos addressed him first, "I trust everything has been sorted out to everyone's satisfaction Sparatus?"
"It has, they brought their ship to their assigned area and are going to disembark shortly. It was a small matter, most of my time was trying to figure out why this hadn't been planned for." Sparatus checked his Omni-tool to ensure his rather scathing critique had been sent to the contractor.
At that moment, the NSSC delegation arrived, headed by Ambassador Ryder and followed by the Sangheili Ambassador Khel 'Chasum, the Kig-Yar Ambassador Bith Kac, the Mgalekgolo Ambassador Ereka Gose Fusdu, Legion representing the Geth, the Hard-Light body of Ambassador Minerva for the AI Nation, and finally the Unggoy Ambassador Yasaz. Stopping in front of the four Citadel Councilors standing shoulder to shoulder a few paces in front of their counterparts, the varying ambassadors were greeted by the Citadel Councilors. The Councilor's eyes passed over each of the Ambassadors, stopping for a moment on Legion and again on Minerva's figure before they began.
Councilor Tevos moved forward towards the NSSC delegation, "Welcome to the Equatorial Diplomatic Base Ambassadors. We would normally have much more pomp and circumstance surrounding these momentous events but in light of everything that has and is still happening, we hope you can appreciate skipping the various pleasantries."
Ambassador 'Chasum spoke first, "I, for one, do not worry so much of the pleasantries Councilor Tevos and appreciate the opportunity to conduct our business as swiftly as is acceptable."
She nodded to the Sangheli, glad that they would not be stuck from the start because the right anthem wasn't played or some nonsense.
"I do not see the Hanar, Drell, Volus, or Elcor Councilors, are they to not attend?" Ambassador Fusdu rumbled, drawing the attention of the Councilors.
"They agreed to allow the four of our races on the Council to lead on this matter. It is the….traditional way we conduct ourselves and has worked for thousands of years. I hope you understand." Councilor Tevos said in a polite, yet firm manner.
The AI Minerva decided to settle that matter for the time being, "Councilor, I know this could be a point of contention between our two governments but we are all willing to accept it for the time being as a difference in our cultures. You have been gracious enough to accept AI into the negotiations despite your laws and experience with them."
Councilor Tevos marked another possible diplomatic quagmire from her list, "Thank you for your understanding Ambassadors, I will admit that I was worried that it may cause problems, I am glad that will not be the case."
Minerva was glad that had the desired effect, "I hope you are all in agreement that cultural differences need to be put aside for the time being in the face of the larger threat we've come to understand."
Councilor Tevos replied, "I am thankful that we can see eye to eye on the matter Ambassador."
Before she could continue, Councilor Sparatus stepped next to her, "I agree Ambassadors, we have all been over the data and in the days since that we spent on Shangri La we have independently verified the data, enough of it anyway to sway our decisions."
He looked each ambassador in the eye before meeting Ambassador Ryder's gaze, "We cannot deny it, the Reapers are real and one of them attacked the Citadel two years ago."
The NSSC Ambassadors all felt relieved to hear the members of the Citadel Council reveal that revelation. Ambassador Ryder remembering what Legion had mentioned his idea of what would happen if the Council accepted the Reapers as a threat and felt his spirits rise.
Councilor Valern continued what Sparatus said, "It seems that much of the evidence presented has been well hidden, in all likelihood, very much deliberately."
"What changed your minds Councilors? I'm rather relieved that we could present the evidence to convince you of the threat but I am curious as to what swayed you." Ambassador Ryder asked.
"There was no single thing that would have stood up as credible evidence Ambassador, it was the culmination of the hundreds of little things that, up until now, had seemed disconnected throughout our history." Before he could continue, the Salarian councilor was interrupted by the sudden blaring of the alarms causing no small amount of surprise and grumbling from the Councilors.
Over the PA system installed in the building, the voice of the Turian officer who had been monitoring the tactical systems announced, "Hostile ships detected, identifying themselves as Batarian Hegemony. Six dreadnaughts, twelve cruisers and at least twenty frigates. Exiting the radiation belt of one of the gas giants in system. ETA estimated to be ten minutes."
Just as the message began to play, six Spectres rushed in from a back room to the Councilors. The lead Spectre, an Asari, addressed the Councilors.
"We have to get you to safety Councilors, please, follow us into your respective ships."
The four Councilors looked around at each other for a moment before settling on Sparatus.
"We have ten dreadnaughts and as many cruisers, the frigates may even the playing field but we're safer here on the surface." The Turian Councilor trusted the Citadel fleet in orbit.
Ambassador Ryder contacted the Tempered Steel with his neural lance. "Commander, I need you to be ready to extend a Hard Light shield over the Diplomatic Base, Citadel ships included. I trust the ship can do that?"
The reply was quick, "Engineering has signed off on it, we have it ready Ambassador."
To the Citadel Councilors, Ambassador Ryder looked like he was deep in thought for a moment before he looked back at them.
"Councilors, if I may. The ship we arrived on, the Tempered Steel, has the capability to extend its shielding over the base. On the off chance a stray round makes its way here or boarding craft attempt any actions."
The Councilors looked to Sparatus, him being the unspoken liaison between the Council and the military for the this operation.
"While normally at this stage I would deny your help Ambassador, the punishment for firing on a garden world with the ship board weapons normally ensures our protection and these Spectres are more than capable to deal with landing parties." The Spectres nodded at the Councilor's vote of confidence.
"However, if this is the remnants of the Batarian navy, after what has happened on their worlds," he shot a glance at Ambassador Ryder who had the good sense to not look defiant, "I doubt they will abide by any treaty set by the Council. In fact I'd be willing to wager that they have arrived for the express intention of targeting this meeting." Sparatus paused after the assessment, looking down while in thought before glancing at his peers.
Councilor Sparatus' voice growled, "Although I would very much like to know how they figured out where we were…."
Looking back to the NSSC Ambassador and composing himself, "We accept your offer of help. We can call it the first step towards our cooperation."
At hearing that, Ambassador Ryder sent the signal and a moment later, an orange Hard Light dome snapped into place, covering the complex and all of the ships.
Not immediately noticing the shield being erected so quickly, Councilor Valern motioned them towards the round table in the center of the room, "Well Ambassadors, I believe we now wait. We can monitor the situation from the holographic array installed in the table." He entered commands into his Omni-tool and a tactical representation of the system and surrounding ships appeared.
Councilor Sparatus put his hands wide on the table as he leaned in, surveying the impending battlefield."The odds are more or less evenly matched in tonnage it seems but they have more frigates. This might get messy."
Ambassador Ryder was listening to the report coming in on his neural lance, apparently Commander Takashi of the NAI was on his way with a new ship. Ambassador Ryder was nonchalant until the description of the ship started to stream in. The development of the ship piqued his interest, the video of the ship's first flight was more alarming. He would need to address that.
Unaware of his surroundings after the news he received, Ambassador Ryder looked up, startled, as Ambassador 'Chasum got his attention, having had to call him by his first name. Looking up, he noticed Councilor Tevos seemed to have an expectant look on her face.
"I apologize Councilors, I was being informed that the NSSC has sent a ship to help reinforce your fleet. It is a new design I'm told." Ambassador Ryder recovered quickly from the assembled stares, relaying the reason.
"You received...a message? I must admit I fail to see any means for you to do so." Councilor Tevos looked at the NSSC delegation confused, she didn't want to point out the Ambassador had simply seemed to have been spacing out.
Ambassador Ryder composed himself before answering, "Yes Councilor, I realize that the neural lance might have been excluded from the codex we sent you. It is an implant that allows us to interface with our technology through mental control. It isn't as widespread among our population here however. It takes a decent amount of mental discipline to use."
Councilor Valern spoke up, curious, "Ambassador, you mean to say that you can receive messages through the neural lance that NSSC personnel have implanted directly into your mind? That would be a distinct advantage in any number of situations." There were a number of other uses of course, but the most obvious in relation to this scenario came to mind first.
Minerva answered, "Yes and no Councilor. While it can appear to be, and in all practicality is, telepathy. The message is translated to the audio and, if necessary, visual processing centers of the brain. We 'hear' and 'see' the message as if you would recalling a conversation although most times to those around you it will seem as if you are just thinking."
"I think we have a fair amount to learn from our respective civilizations Ambassador. Much indeed." Councilor Valern left it at that, he was curious but with a group of undoubtedly hostile Batarians bearing down on them now wasn't the time for it. Quickly packaging the recording of the conversation, he keyed his brief report in his Omni-tool and sent it to constituents in various places as a catalyst for new avenues of research.
Sparatus cut in, "It is all well and good that your friends can send messages into your mind Ambassador but I think we should be focusing on the attempt on our lives. Diplomatic exchange can wait while our men lay down their lives to protect us."
Batarian Fleet - Exiting Jarfor orbit
Fleet Admiral Kanmorr's face was twisted in a vicious smile. He saw the single NSSC cruiser enter the system and touch down right next to the rest. He knew his fleet would take some damage, he might even lose more ships than would be prudent but he didn't care. These lesser races had impinged upon the honor and pride of the Batarians and would pay.
Yelling at the bridge crew in his excitement, "Get the ships in formation! They are vulnerable all packed together like that. We will strike and cut the head off the damn Council and prove these newcomers are nothing more than smoke and mirrors!"
A cheer went up among the crew as the ships moved, exiting the close orbit of the gas giant and jumped to Virmire.
The Fleet Admiral's smile stayed on his face as he confirmed that his ships had exited at the coordinates above Virmire. His ships were pointed at the planet, their weapons primed, now was his time for revenge.
Fleet Admiral Kanmorr's face twisted into a snarl of hate as he spat out his command.
"FIRE!"
Author's Notes: Cliffhanger! Argh! I'm actually probably frustrated as some of you are at this ending. I've been taking my time with these chapters and this one stalled out after this spot in the chapter. I'm working on the next part of it separately mostly because I've come to realize that 20k words for a chapter are fun but 9k or so is a bit easier to digest in one round.
No promises on the next one since combat scenes take me a bit more time and I'll be trying to flesh the story out a bit more. But other than that, hope I'm keeping you all entertained!
*raises glass* Cheers!