Chapter 10 Retaliation and Retribution

9552 GSY Galactic Standard Time

Citadel Council's Space

The Citadel/Citadel Tower

19:13 "Dark" GST Time

In the Citadel tower of the space station known as the Citadel. A colossal deep-space station serves as the capital of the Citadel Council. Located at the main seat of one of the most powerful governments to have ruled the galaxy since ancient Prothean Civilization. House the Citadel Councilors, three representatives of the three most powerful body that makes up the governing body known as the Citadel Council. These representatives represent the government they serve and their respective interests. The council was established by the elder races as a way to ensure the efficient distribution of resources. Enforcing laws, and preventing rival competition between rival powers from causing death and destruction throughout the galaxy. In its long history, the Citadel Council has succeeded in that in many ways. Ruled by the big three who maintain a vast hegemony over the lesser races. They have led the galaxy into a time of endless peace and prosperity.

However, this peace didn't come with a lot of problems. Because of the way how the Citadel Council is structured. In a way, the Citadel Council is ruled like an authoritarian style government rather than a federation of races working together. Any grievances that each race has, they must take to the three councilors of the big three. Who will either decide whether or not to solve or pursue these problems? Moreover, there is also the fact that Council's Specters are allowed free reign in any species' territories. Allowed to do whatever it takes to get the job done no matter the cost. As such, at times many of the associate races within the Citadel Council have expressed their anger and displeasure over certain actions by the council or either the actions of Specters.

Nevertheless, the Citadel Council still remains a beacon of stability in an increasingly chaotic galaxy. These are trying times for the Citadel Council as they undergo the biggest trial in the history of its existence, since the Rachni Wars and the Krogan Rebellion. With the current Eezo scarcity crisis affecting all powers in the galaxy. Not too common, resource wars were waged between the various different factions across the galaxy over the increasingly rare Eezo. Which was the lifeblood of any spacefaring civilization. Without it, today's modern spacefaring civilization would not have existed in its current form. As time goes on this "Eezo crisis" was already beginning to make its way into the center of Citadel Space and into the economies of the big three. It was only a matter of time before a galactic catastrophe would occur. Dubbed by many the "Great Famine", it predicts a massive societal collapse followed by a series of chaotic failures in the supply chain resulting in a massive famine that would result in the fall of the modern galactic Civilization.

It was believed that the Protheans, before the discovery of the Thessian Mural, that their civilization suffered a similar collapse. Over the past thousands of years, the Council made every effort to explore, mine, and harvest to recycle, reuse, and distribute rare resources as efficiently as possible. All in an effort to stave off the immediate collapse and to buy time until an alternative solution could be made. Their effort roughly paid off, giving the modern galactic civilization just roughly two or three Asari centuries, or roughly two to three thousand years before the fragile "House of Cards" comes crashing down metaphorically. They had tried to explore all different types of technologies that would provide an alternative. But all these efforts have failed, one particularly infamous example was the failure of the Interspace drive experiment. And the FTL scandal that followed, force the Council to shut down all efforts to create and explore a new FTL alternative.

As of now, the Citadel Council has been on a path of a downward spiral and now found itself trapped in an unsustainable cycle. Henceforth they themselves found out quite easily, which is very difficult to break out of. This cycle consists of the Council's rapid expansion, via the reckless opening of dormant Mass Relays scattered throughout the galaxy. Years before this action would have been decried as illegal and irresponsible as it could put the entire galactic civilization at risk. As one such action resulted in the chaos known as the Ranchni war which made this action highly illegal and the opening of Mass Relays heavily regulated with a massive fleet to back up such exploration. But with the ongoing Eezo scarcity crisis, this law was metaphorically thrown out the proverbial window. As the ongoing Eezo Crisis has made everyone in Citadel Space desperate for the rare important resource that has reached the tipping point of no return. Where that such concerns were considered less of a concern over the greater concern of finding and mining for more Eezo.

While these actions may have staved off the effects that would have been felt by the common citizenry. Contrary to what the government of these races might think, these actions did not solve the problem but they would only perpetuate an inexhaustible drive and a vicious unsustainable cycle for raw resources. As more resources such as the scarce Eezo. The more industry and the economy grows, which raises demand for more resources. Which only incentivized the government to continue to open more relays for more resources. Which only repeats the cycle until eventually there will be no resources left to go around. The Citadel Council knew what was going on. They were well aware of the vicious cycle. But they were powerless to do anything about it. Without easy access to an alternative method of FTL, the council was back to square one. Not even Asari the first and oldest race in the galaxy and their wisdom could do anything about it to stop this event from happening. For a time it would appear that the collapse was only inevitable.

Until the discovery by the Salarians Union may provide them with the answer they needed to endure the crisis. The discovery of the Craftworld built by the mysterious Solarian race was the thing they needed to save galactic civilization and prevent its collapse. From the initial observation, the Ship displayed technologies that were by far beyond what the races of the Citadel Council and the rest of the galaxy. From an advanced alternative FTL drive system to the unknown highly advanced power generation system and environmental controls for the countless biodomes that littered throughout the vessel. The vessel was a treasure trove of technologies waiting to be discovered. However, the problem stopping the Citadel Council from taking the ship for themselves was the people who is in possession of the vessel.

The Quarian Migrant Fleet, since their discovery of the Craftworld, they have been a thorn in the interest of the Citadel's respective governments in their attempts to acquire the Craftworlds along with its technologies and secrets. The situation was already complicated by the sudden 180-degree change in their policy for relations with the Geth. It is unknown by the Quarians have made this decision. Many theories have been raised for the Quarian's sudden shift in relations. But in the end, the issue remains, the Quarian was standing in the way of progress and hope in the eyes of the respective governments in the Citadel. Thus, their response was immediate, however, the respective governments had different opinions and ideas on how to deal with the Quarian situation. This led to the large argument that was currently taking place in the Citadel Tower the building which houses the seat of the Citadel Councilors. As of now, no consensus has been made on what should be done with the Quarian situation. And thus, the argument continued to much of everyone's displeasure.

"The Quarians are a threat to the stability and security of the galaxy. They must be exterminated to the last man, woman, and child!" yelled the Turian Councilor, Tiberius Desaix. "Their acquisition of the Craftworld along with their so-called 'alliance' with the Geth have shown them their true colors. They do not respect our laws or what we think. A Suit Rat is always a Suit Rat." he finished his speech. This was followed by a cheer from those who were supported by the current Turian government with the Primarch backing his proposal.

Asari Councilor, Tevos Belsari along with Salarian Councilor Luokin Seolon sighed in response. The argument had gone on for several hours now, but nothing concrete had been agreed upon. The Turians had been advocating for a full-scale military response. Which was vetoed by the Asari Republics and the Salarian Union for fear of damaging the Craftworld via this reckless endeavor. The Salarians wanted to engage in a series of espionage and covert operations. Their proposal was in line with a standard wait-and-see approach. They concluded that they would need to regain the Quarian's trust in order to gain access to the ship. Even going so far as to propose potential cooperation between the two sides to build trust. The Asari supported this even further, with the proposal to conduct a series of rehabilitation programs to restore the Quarians' reputations and even create room for a concession from the Quarians.

Unfortunately, this idea had not gone down well with the Turian Hierarchy. They were advocating for a brutal military operation to suppress the Quarians and take their ship by force. Ever since the supposed Geth Rebellion relations between the two Dextro-protein races had been at an all-time low. The Turians have spent the last few centuries trying to make the Quarians pay for the damages they suffered during that Fiascos. By any means necessary, the Council initially tolerated this action and even turned a blind eye too. But now things were different, they needed the Quarians on their side not against them. But the issues with the Turians were only going to make that plan even harder. This is why for the last few hours or so, the two councilors and their governments have been attempting to convince the Turians to accept amnesty. So far, it has been proven fruitless as the infamous Turian's stubbornness struck once again. Too much of the other's frustration and anger at the situation. To make matters worse, the argument was only inflaming the tensions between the big three.

To the associate races observers who were watching. It was a sign that cracks were beginning to show within the Citadel's supposedly strong and stable government. Enough cracks and the entire system would come crashing down. But as they watched on, the argument had reached its climax.

"Perhaps if you take a look at your actions against the Quarians for the past few centuries. Then perhaps their actions make sense." Councilor Luokin stated.

"M...M...Makes SENSE?!" shouted the Turian Councilor suddenly too much of everyone's surprise and causing a few to flinch in response. "What do you mean it makes sense? There is nothing sense about it! The Quarians pretend, no Lied that they were against the Geth! In fact, to make it even better, they were not, never against the Geth to begin with. Not only they have conspired with the Geth, but they are conspiring against us as well. We must face this threat with everything we have. So tell me Councilor how does that make sense?!"

"It makes sense because your constant tirade about the 'Quarians' and their threats, along with your harassment of them via your government and military have forced them to view us more of a threat than what you view them." Councilor Luokin finally snapped. "Perhaps they viewed that they might not have a choice, to begin with. Considering how everyone in the galaxy is treating them. They might view it as the entire galaxy trying to kill them. I won't be surprised that their 'alliance' with the Geth is one born out of desperation. After all, everyone in the galaxy is hostile to them! They have no choice in that matter."

"That's good then!" said Councilor Tiberius Desaix with a smug look. His response caused some in the room to do a double-take. Merely out of disbelief at his response and general attitude about the Quarians. "It'll make our jobs much easy to clean them up."

If the crowd wasn't shocked, now they were, with some having their jaws dropped down in pure disbelief. Even the Asari Councilor was horrified by his response. To Luokin, in her mind she asked, "do you seriously have no heart at all?" she asked herself.

"Are you out of your mind?!" Tevos finally shouted, already enough with the Turian antics. "We are civilized beings in the galaxy. We do not actively seek out genocide on a race unless it's absolutely necessary."

"Then what we are proposing is necessary!" Councilor Tiberius fired back.

"It is not, councilor!" stated Councilor Luokin. "The Quarians before their regrettable fall were a civilized race just like every one of us. They are not Ranchni nor they are not Krogan. I don't see why we need to go as far as trying to exterminate them when we can perhaps talk to them. Going via your method would only solidify in their eyes, of us trying to kill them. Which would regrettably lead to their current hostility against us."

"Which is why we need to start pushing!" Exclamied Councilor Tiberius. "Let them start being hostile to us. Then we shall clean the galaxy of their filth once and for all."

Councilor Luokin turned and made eye contact with Councilor Tevos who herself, shook her head with displeasure. Her sentiment was echoed by the people in the room. Councilor Luokin too shared her sentiment. In her opinion as of late, the Turian Hierarchy was becoming more and more of a liability than a reliable ally. Centuries before they had initially tolerated the Turians' grievances against the Quarians. It was now that Councilor Luokin realized that had been a major mistake from the start. Left unchecked by the wider council the Turian grievances changed from pride to now an uncontrolled obsession to bring pain and misery upon the surviving Quarian population.

While there were some elements in Turian society that disagreed with this view. But because they were a minority, more often than not their voices and opinions were often ignored or snuffed out by the main central Government to prevent dissent. Nevertheless, centuries of propaganda directed to the Turian populace against the Quarians have warped the entire society into something truly horrifying. A war machine that was dedicated to bringing the complete extermination of their Dextro counterpart. The Salarians knew that an all-out war of extermination between the two species was only a matter of time. It was an indicator that the current galactic civilization was on the brink of ruins. Unless they do something about it. Firstly they had to stop the Turians from doing something completely stupid that may impact them down the line. Otherwise, they may be dragged into a war they won't want. If the evidence is correct, the entire galaxy would be dragged into a war of annihilation against not only the Quarians but also the Geth. And there was no telling what their capabilities were.

"Now listen here Tiberius, we are not going to allow you to drag us down your little crusade against the Quarians," Luokin said sternly. "We are the councilors who serve not only in the best interest of our respective governments but also the interest of the general populace. We do not have time for any grudges."

"No, you listen to hear. The Turian Hierarchy needs to..." the councilor was interrupted by an aid who came rushing to his side.

The Turian councilor irritated that he was interrupted suddenly stop and listen to what the aid had to say. Before turning around to face the aid in shock and horrified at the news.

"What?" he said. "What do you mean the Subjugation Fleet was destroyed?!"

That caught the attention of the two councilors.

"I'm telling you sir the Fleet commanded by the Primarch Chosen personality was destroyed by the Quarians sir. They've annihilated the entire subjugation fleet." responded the Aid.

"Alone?" asked Councilor Tiberius fearfully.

"No sir, there were survivors." replied the Aid.

"So then, where are they?"

"They have been intercepted just as our fleets were about to retreat. Intercepted in question by a massive armada of Geth warships. From the initial reports of a few days ago. No survivors were taken by the Quarians. We haven't been able to confirm if the Primarch Chosen made it out. But chances are he's dead."

The two councilors who were listening in were now horrified.

Tevos had her hands covering he mouth in shock. "Oh, Goddess,"

"Tiberius," said Luokin, "What have you done?"

The Turian councilor was speechless in the face of the rapid turn of events. Still unable to process the situation, his mind went back and forth between denial and disbelief. Then another aid came rushing in.

"Councilors, a message from the Quarians it's being broadcast to us."

"From where?" asked Luokin.

"Sir is broadcasting everywhere, all across Citadel space." replied the aid.

"Onscreen now!" ordered Luokin.

The three councilors were soon greeted by the Quarian admiral Darien'Xen. Standing beside him was the rest of the Admiralty Board. But what caught their attention was the presence of a Geth unit standing beside the admirals. A pure indication of the alliance between the Geth and the Quarians. Seeing it firsthand was something that the three councilors weren't quite ready or expecting. The Quarian Admiral looked at the screen intently as he began his speech addressing the entire galaxy.

"Greetings my fellow citizens of the galaxy. My name is Admiral Darien'Xen of the Quarian 1st Fleet of the newly formed New Quarian Republic. Tonight I address you now, a few days ago my people were subjected to an attack by the Turian Fleet. They claim we are a threat to the galaxy on the scale of that of the Rachni and Krogan. I will address this allegation today. Are we a threat? No, we are not. Because you already made us one. With all due respect, we tried to coexist peacefully with the citizens of the galaxy. For all we got was hatred and the scorn of the galaxy. You decided that we were the scum. We never asked for this treatment nor we asked for the hate we were given. Henceforth, since the galaxy is so keen on making us a threat as they so claim. So be it, we shall be that threat. This is not a warning but a declaration. We will do everything no matter the cost to defend our sovereignty. If those who will deny us peace, refuse us our rightful place in the universe. Then they shall bear the brunt of our terrible wrath along with our new allies, the Geth. Take a look here at the ones who tried to deny us the right to exist. This is the fate of those who cross our path. It is regrettable that we are forced to take this path. But if the galaxy continues to refuse us the rights we so desire. Then we shall take what is ours by force by any means necessary. This is all, and you all have been warned."

As the message played an uncomfortable silence soon descended upon the three councilors.

"Oh Goddess," whispered Tevos.

Councilor Luokin shared her sentiment. Things had just gone from bad to worse.

...

Previously a few days ago

The Quarian Admiralty Board convened along with representatives of the civilian government and the Geth representative as they came together to discuss the latest series of events. The event in question is the sudden departure of a massive Turian fleet and it is currently heading towards their location. They had known about the Fleet for quite some time now. After all, it was really hard to hide the level of mobilization from anyone. Initially, the Quarians believed the Fleet was sent on a search and destroy mission against pirates from the Terminus or from the Batarian Hegemony. However, after monitoring their movement, it soon became clear that they weren't on an ordinary search-and-destroy mission at all. Their position had placed them close to where they were operating. It was then the Quarians realized that the Fleet was intending for them.

Now they had convened to discuss what they should do next. So far, they haven't been able to reach a definitive consensus on how should they respond to the impending threat. Each member of the meeting had different goals and agendas, opinions, and ideas on what they should do with the approaching Turian Armada. But one thing that was agreed upon was that they needed to deal with the Turian threat quickly before they could do irrecoverable damage to the nascent Quarian nation and its future. Therefore, they were now discussing their opinions and plans on how they should deal with the fleet without causing too many casualties. A lot of ideas were thrown around, some unique and risky while others were simple, conservative, and had less risk. So far, no concrete agreement had been made. As such, the discussion continued.

"We have been at this for hours, and yet we still haven't come up with a plan?" said Admiral Shan who was attempting to stave off the incoming headache.

"There are a lot of ideas thrown around Admiral," stated Admiral Ren. "Of course, coming up with ideas is easy. Implementing them is something entirely different. Of course, as the human saying goes, 'no plan survives first contact with the enemy.' There are no guarantees if any of these ideas would even work as we hope."

"But still, we must at least agree on something," she replied. "At this rate, the Turian fleet would come upon us like a pack of hungry Varrens. The way I see it is that nothing will be done to deal with this impending attack."

"Admiral Shan here is the problem," said Admiral Koras. "The humans have made it very clear that we must deal severe damage to the Turian fleet as much as possible. If possible, kill all of them. The human's request will not only benefit them but us as well by two folds. Firstly by ensuring the Turian Fleet is destroyed we will show the galaxy that we are a force not to be reckoned with. This will allow us to have a deterrence to deter any future attacks hopefully if the Turians learn their lesson. Moreover, would allow us to be left alone in peace to build up our own forces. The second thing is that it would allow the Turians to be militarized. All is according to plan by our illusive backers' design. The Humans of Sol made it very clear that we do not stand a chance against the Reapers if we were to do this alone. With the Turians and the galaxy militarized, we would fare a much better chance against the Reapers as allies when they finally returned. It'll eventually help us with the eventual goal of retaking our home."

The people in the room nodded in agreement. Admiral Koras represented the pragmatic factions that had formed since the creation of the new Quarian state. They were individuals who would utilize every and all opportunities at their disposal to ensure their survival. They were currently rivaled by Admiral Shan and her factions. Which represents the logical, conservative, and fewer-risk ideals associated with their traditional values. There was also the Neutral and mediator faction consisting of both Admiral Darien and Admiral Sharlaya. Both sides had been arguing about the current issue for hours now. With neither side gaining any meaningful consensus.

"I understand, while I do have my doubts about this plan set up by the Humans of Sol. The current issue is how we can pull this off without suffering too many casualties. The last thing we need is to come out of this battle with a pyrrhic victory. Now, not to insult our benefactors, I do not for one believe the Turians will take this offense to their pride lightly if we manage to pull this off. It will do us no good if we are to embroil ourselves in a series of bushfire wars against the Turian Hierarchy that would not only drain our strength but theirs as well." added Admiral Shan. "Unless any of you have a plan that would allow us to 'create' this deterrence. To force any race in the galaxy to think again. I am all ears."

"How about we use our homefront advantage?" asked Admiral Sharlaya. "we can utilize the Scourage to ensure that devastation."

"Out of the question," replied Admiral Ren. "While our ships and the Craftworld may have the best of the best technology to withstand such a hazardous environment. I do not want to damage our ships and technology too much so that we may be forced to go back to Sol for repairs. Our fleets and this ship aren't cheap after all. It would be an offense to the Solarians if we carelessly damage the precious gifts they had given away for us to use. At the same time, it doesn't sound right to put the Craftworld at risk of that anyways."

The other admirals nodded in response to the suggestion by Admiral Sharlaya. There was good reason for the Admiral's concerns about that particular idea. The Scourge was a series of mysterious widespread energy phenomena discovered by Citadel Geological Surveyors in the surrounding regions near the Heleus Cluster, which was a region in the galaxy known for having Archaeotech belonging to entirely different races and civilizations. But was completely inaccessible to the wider galaxy because of the Scourage. However, the Scourage could be found in other areas of the Milky Way galaxy. Its properties and nature defy all understanding by contemporary science, and are described as a "dark energy cloud" or "charged absence". Speculation about the nature of the Scourge usually ties it to dark energy, yet the Scourge does not behave in the way that existing theories on dark energy say that it would. Element Zero can be harvested from the Scourge, but only at great expense as the Scourge catastrophically interferes with the function of most technology. The Scourge is associated in some way with Remnant Ancient Prothean structures and has severely damaged the environments of the planets classified as golden worlds by the Citadel Geological Surveyors.

It was eventually revealed by the Solarians, that the Scourage was released into the Heleus Cluster and in these areas many millennia ago after the detonation of a powerful weapon on a space station belonging to another race known as the Jardaan, during the conflict involving the race in the onset of the Reaper War. They were the creators of the Scourage and a series of Terraforming Machines located in the Heleus Cluster known by many as the Remnant. The Scourage was a form of area denial weapon developed by the Jardaan to prevent their greater creation from falling into the hands of the Reapers. In order to do that they must ensure that the Heleus Cluster must be inaccessible to all. Henceforth, the dark energy cloud which led to the countless death, annoyance, and exploration disasters in the past was born.

The Jardaan themselves were a technological advance race. Whose technology were several orders of magnitude more sophisticated than the current technologies found today in the current galactic civilization. The Jardaan were able to create an interlinked, cluster-wide planetary network, a feat of engineering beyond the logistics or budget of any known species except perhaps the Solarians, Protheans, and the Reapers. Most Archaeotech sighted in the areas near and around Heleus is their creation, including everything colloquially known as Remnant technology. While Remnant technology is noted to be actually less advanced than Prothean tech, the energy requirements alone suggest the Jardaan are a Type I civilization on the Human Kardashev scale.

Like the Protheans, the Jardaan appear to have reached a level of technological development that utterly eclipses even the most cutting-edge present-day Milky Way devices. Like Prothean artifacts, working Remnant technology is relatively rare and, despite the efforts of various scientists and engineers, very little is known about how it functions. Some of their devices, such as their Vault network, are based on science so advanced that even state-of-the-art VIs to even AIs cannot even begin to estimate exactly how it functions. Despite its technical sophistication, however, much of the Jardaan's technology appears to have enough similarities to conventional technology that a suitably skilled individual would have little trouble operating it. Activation of complex Remnant technology, such as the vaults, seems to require a synthesis of an organic mind and artificial intelligence, or at the very least a more sophisticated mindset regarding the technology than most races in the galaxy possess. Some of Citadel Council's own scientists have been able to interact with relatively simple Remnant technology such as doors and containers, but only after years of study.

Nevertheless, the Jardaan was still a highly sophisticated race often on par with the wider and more well-known Prothean Civilization. And like many races of the past, they were found to be still alive, living in the Sol system as refugees during the onset of the Reaper invasion of the Milky Way Galaxy. Only a fraction of what they were at the height of their civilization before the Reaper invasion and subsequent collapse of their empire. Despite this, the Jardaan still preserved in the face of overwhelming odds. They were one of the more opportunistic races in Sol compared to the others. Believing that one day, the Reapers would be defeated and their people will one day rise again and rebuild what was lost. Taking the Human concept of the phoenix as a symbol of their newly created religious belief amongst their people. Which advocated the idea of renewal from the old and rebirth. Applying it to real life on the basis of their civilization, hoping to change it into something new and different. Cleanse from the sins and mistakes of the past. It was a religion that quickly spread to not only themselves but others.

Unlike other races that were present in Sol. The Jardaan made every effort to preserve as much of their culture and technological progress as much as possible. As such, they were one of the few races that still possessed some of their original technology to use during their time in the Sol system. What is interesting is that much of the Jardaan marvelous technology was actually inspired by Human of Sol technology. The Jardaan were the first alien race encountered by the Humans that didn't want to kill them. This action allowed the Jardaan to gain limited access via their friendly relationship with the humans to their technology. Inspired by the Human's interest in creating and reshaping the universe around them. The Jardaan decided to follow in their footsteps learning from them as relations between the two races grow, albeit more akin to an apprentice undergoing an apprenticeship program. The Jardaan were eager to learn from the Humans, taking in as much knowledge and concepts as possible. The Jardaan hope to show the humans the skills and knowledge they have acquired from them via a masterpiece creation.

Taking over a once-previously-dead star cluster within the frontiers of their territory. They managed to turn it into a paradise of their own making. Creating the machines that would be discovered by Citadel exploration teams on the outskirts of the Heleus Cluster, known as the Remnant. With these machines the Jardaan created the paradise, reshaping the entire star cluster as the humans did to Sol. But under their own image, to finish it off, the Jardaan created genetic templates of artificial races, races that were featured in the myths and legends found in their culture. Inspired by how humans used genetic engineering to recreate races from their myths and fairy tails. Hoping to do exactly the same, the Jardaan populate the star cluster with this artificial race. Controlling the entire terraforming and world-shaping system was a massive artificial planet, known as Meridian. A hollow sphere protecting a controlled and malleable environment, Meridian is a technological marvel. Hub for the vault network, and home to the growing center of the Jardaan's progress in Heleus.

Inspired entirely by the Human Dyson Sphere world concept. Consists of an artificial planetary surface encapsulating a miniature Dyson sphere. Beneath the artificial planetary surface span kilometers of machinery, including many access portals which lead to the sphere's interior; these portals remain sealed when not in use. The interior of the installation is hollow and features a vast terraformed surface and a miniature artificial star. Many spheres of this type exist throughout Human space, used mainly for conservation and the preservation of countless species of the ancient past. In the past before the Reaper's invasion, these spheres were used to experiment with genetic engineering and study life itself. From biology to microbiology, and other forms of science such as medicine to food science. At the onset of the Reaper war, these spheres were used to house fauna and flora from planets across the galaxies. Recovered from their native planets before these worlds were scorched by the fires of the Reaper war. They provide a safe bastion to ensure the continuation of life in the event of a massive disaster.

The Jardaan had simply repurposed the idea in their own image. While Meridian is nowhere near the sizes of the Human spheres. Being able to create a moon size copy with their own technology had nevertheless earned the attention and praise of numerous human scientific community, scholars, and government officials. the Jardaan had planned to continue with the Project. But alas, due to the Reaper invasion, the Jardaan made the hard choice and abandon their hard work in the name of survival. Not before detonating an area denial weapon to prevent direct access to the Heleus Cluster. Now hundreds of thousands of years later some Jardaan had advocated checking back at Heleus to see how far their automated system had progressed in the project in their absence. If it did at all, to begin with. Which was why the Quarians were initially heading there as their next destination.

It was a request of a few Jardaan they met during their stay in Sol; who asked when they leave to make the time to check on their pet project of theirs and report back on its status. Naturally, the Quarians who were curious about the Jardaan's achievement decided to head to Heleus as their next destination in their long journey across the galaxy. That is until they were forced to divert quickly away; due to the impending threat of the Turian's subjugation fleet. Since the threat posed by the Turians was more important than going to the cluster. Of course, there was the idea to hide in the Cluster. But with concerns about the Turians potentially pillaging the cluster for advanced technologies. That would be used against them, the Quarians had an easy choice to choose from. Now they must find a way to deal with the fleet before they can proceed to Heleus.

"With the threat of the Turians subjugation fleet approaching us. We cannot take any more risk or chances," said Admiral Ren. "Not all is doom and gloom. After all, we do have access to an advanced defense system, namely these Warsat satellite systems, a gift courtesy of the Humans to aid us. This means we have at least more options to choose from. We aren't that desperate yet, Admiral Sharlaya, to the point we need to use something like the Scourage to win this battle."

"I see, so then this idea is rejected then," she replied with a sigh.

"I'm afraid so, admiral." nodded Admiral Ren.

"I may have a suggestion." called out a voice in the room. All eyes turn to the individual who spoke.

Newbie Captain Hans'Gerrel alongside, Captain Zaal'Koris and Captain Rael'Zorah were present in the Room. Hans'Gerrel had his hands up indicating that he was the one who made the suggestion.

"Go on, captain what do you have in mind?" nodded Admiral Darien.

"I believe Admiral Sharlaya's proposal holds merit. I put my support in it," said Captain Hans'Gerrel Confidently.

The room was in an uproar. As many Quarians were stunned by this turn of events, by the captain who supported Admiral Sharlaya's proposal. Others were curious as to the Captain's justification for supporting that proposal.

"Quiet down people, Captain present why this may be the case." inquired Admiral Darien.

"The Turians are coming period," began Captain Hans'Gerrel. "We need to show them that we don't mess around. Cause if we beat them without instilling fear in them. Then they are just going to come back and go at us again. No, we need to strike them where it hurts! We need to instill fear in them so that they may think twice before having a go at us."

"In that case, I believe you have arranged a plan then?" asked Admiral Darien.

"Yes, I shall present it here to the meeting," said Captain Hans'Gerrel. "This plan is a combination of my discussions with my two colleagues who are standing beside me. We shall explain what our plan is."

And thus, the trio explained their plan. But it generated a lot of mixed responses from those in the meeting. With even the Geth representative voicing its concerns about it.

"This...This...This is madness." exclaimed one captain.

"You'll doom us all with this plan." stated another. "The Turians would never accept this kind of defeat."

"I concur, while it has its merit. I doubt the Turian would take this offense that you propose lightly." replied one.

"Enough!" yelled Admiral Darien who slammed on the table to bring the room to order before the argument could have gotten out of control. Looking around the room he finally began.

"Captains Hans, are you sure of your plan?" he asked the rookie captain.

"Very sure, sir!" replied Captain Hans confidently as he stared into the Admiral's eyes.

Admiral Darien stared intently at the captain for several minutes before making his final decision on the matter.

"Then it is settled then, while your reasoning is correct, there might be a chance that it could be wrong. However, upon analysis of our current situation. It has increasingly clear that the Turians will not stop until we are either extinct or their slaves." Admiral Darien surmised. Everyone in the room nodded grimly at the situation.

"Which is why I'll take up your suggestion and proposal into consideration," said Admiral Darien. "Whether or not it will be implemented would be the Admiralty Board to decide. Until then, continue the preparations, we must be ready until the Turian fleet finally arrives."

"YES SIR!" replied the assembled captains in the room as they slowly made their way out of the room. Going back to their ships and flotillas to prepare for the inevitable confrontation.

Admiral Darien looked back once again at the proposal by the young captain. A myriad of thoughts swirled around his mind as he contemplate the idea. In the darkest and deeper parts of his mind. There was a push that made him consider the plan and apply it during the eventual battle against the Turians. Making his choice, he slowly made a note to himself to contact the young captain later. After all, he knew that sometimes, one will have to get his or her hands dirty in order to achieve the greater good. He thought, as he slowly made his back to the bridge. To continue his endless duties.

...

Turian Subjugation Fleet

Flagship HNV Imperator

The Turian, known by many as the Primarch Chosen watch his fleet with pride as they transition through the void of space. The Turian name in question is Quintus Fabius Maximus Verracusa. Or Primarch Chosen Verracusa for short. The Great Chosen Verracusa is known to all who know of him as a man of great focus, commitment, and sheer will. It is said that he once destroyed a Batarian dreadnought with nothing more than a lone frigate, and to most who know him, they would not question it. When children check under their beds for Batarian Slavers, the slavers check the darkest corners of space for the great Primarch Chosen Verracusa.

It is for this very reason that Verracusa is one of the Primarchs Chosen, a small but elite selection of Turians with an exceptional skill set, who are sent on missions that simply can not fail. They are called the Primarchs Chosen because the Primarch himself appointed them into the position and to most Turians, this title is more fabled than the elite Spectres. Yes, to be chosen by the council to serve their will also demands great respect, but to be selected by the Primarch to serve as his right hand? That to most Turians, who have an almost fanatical devotion to the Primarch, is a different story altogether. It is for this reason that Verracusa has his very own dreadnought, the Imperator, named after his hometown back in Palaven. The dreadnought looks like any other Turian dreadnought, to prevent it from being targeted in battle, but it has some subtle differences. Most notably, the HWV Cardeus lacks ground assets, which allows more space to add extra armor and higher-capacity communication assets.

The great Turian can often be found in the library of the HWV Imperator when not deployed, or in the CIC, also known as the Combat Command Centre when deployed. He is very rarely found on the bridge, for that is not where he works; instead, he leaves the bridge to the Fleet Commander and ships Captain - he does not need their work to distract him from his own. In the CIC the Primarchs Chosen has a selection of handpicked crew to man the numerous stations, ranging from intelligence officers to a previously retired Fleet Commander to role-play red forces.

Sitting at an unassuming desk in the corner of the CIC is the Turian himself, a hot drink in one hand and datapad in another hand, but most would not assume it. The fabled Turian is tall and imposing, 8 foot 20 to be precise, 2 feet taller than the average Turian, his eyes do not glow red with the Primarch's wrath and his claws aren't any longer than a normal Turians- no, he looks just like a normal, but short, Turian. Currently, the HWV Imperator is traveling with its escort of 31 vessels to the relay 432 to rendezvous with the rest of the force mustered by the Hierarchy, giving the Primarchs Chosen time to think. He has received the initial reports from Turian High Command, but without really knowing the Turian Fleet Commander Verracusa cannot trust his beliefs of the Quarian's newfound capabilities, so it is, for this reason, he has been studying the Quarian Admirals, namely one Admiral Darien's record and achievements, and so far the Primarchs Chosen is mildly impressed, allowing him some faith of his initial assessment of the situation.

Satisfied with the report, the Primarch Chosen soon made his way to the bridge where he was greeted by his staff of loyal and dutiful officers and crewmembers. Who saluted him as he entered the bridge. He saluted back to return the gesture. Following this greeting, the crew went back to continue with their task. After a brief inspection of the crew in the CIC. the Primarch Chosen signaled an announcement to the whole fleet. Indicating that he was about to make a speech. All crews, from the captains and officers to the lowly sailors all stood at attention. Awaiting for what the Primarch Chosen had to say.

Nodding in satisfaction the Primarch Chosen made his speech. "When we joined the Hierarchy Military, we took an oath!"

"According to our station! All without exception!" replied all the personnel from across the fleet.

"On the blood of our fathers, on the blood of our sons...we swore to uphold the ideals of the Hierarchy and that of the Council!"

"Even to our dying breath!"

"Those who would break this oath are Traitors, worthy of neither pity nor mercy! Even now they use our lords' creations to broadcast their lies and turn their weapons against us!"

"We shall grind them into dust!"

"And continue our march to glorious, honor, glory, and for salvation!"

"For the Hierarchy, For the Council!"

"As such, our orders are clear. Today, our fleet will merge with the others to form a mighty armada. To be unleashed upon an enemy that now threatens the safety and security of the galaxy. What I am referring to is the actions of the Quarians trace and their suppose alliance with the Geth. With their acquisition of the fable mythical Craftworld. Our task is more than ever important. Our order is to seize the ship and end the Quarian threat once and for all!"

Across the fleet, the Turians cheered as the fleet slowly made its way to Relay 423 to link up with reinforcement before heading to the Abyssal Zone. Where the Quarian fleet was last spotted by the Salarian STG teams. Primarch Chosen Verracusa looked on as the Fleet entered relay transit. "Finally we put an end to them." he thought as the Fleet continued on to its journey. Little did he know, this mission would be his last. As he and many across the Fleet would never be seen again.

...

Codex Entry:

Warsat/War satellites:

Info: Warsats (short for War Satellites) were orbital military satellites built during the Golden Age of humanity to defend Earth and the other colonies throughout the Solar System. Thousands of Warsats were launched into orbit above the planets of the Solar System. and together with an array of hardened surface installations, the Warsats formed a vast communications and defense network throughout which the Military AIs known as Warminds distributed themselves. During the Reaper War, as humanity's defeat became certain, Warmind Rasputin ordered the surviving Warsats still scattered throughout human space to isolate themselves and enter long-term dormancy, leaving them unmanned and idle for centuries. At least some Warsats models were found to be armed with powerful X-ray lasers, being able to destroy targets on the planet's surface. Overall, the Warsats is a key feature and a staple in today's modern defenses of the 28th millennium.

Designs:

The satellites themselves are 2–4 meters in some cases 6-12 to even 86 meters in diameter, are a dark gray color, and are composed of numerous triangular segments that make them approximately spherical. That can open up in some models, to reveal its weapons arsenal. Several large antennae-like structures are attached to the exterior of every WARSAT. These satellites are never meant to stay in orbit forever. As periodically these satellites will crash as a result of orbital decay. Upon colliding with the ground at high velocity, the WARSATs will be badly damaged beyond repair, causing the exterior plating to buckle and expose an interior full of complex circuitry. A necessary design flaw that implemented to destroy any key valuable technology which was stored in each satellite. To prevent their capture by enemy search and recovery or in general in their hands to be potentially reverse-engineered and used against their user.

Warsats were also a component of the Planetary Defense Network. The Planetary Defense Network was a planetary array used for defense by Warmind Rasputin, built during the Golden Age of humanity prior to the onset of the Reaper War. This network of hardened planet-side military installations and countless Warsats allowed the Warminds to monitor and coordinate defenses across the entire Solar System. While most Warsats models are communication, stealth, spy, and reconnaissance satellites originally. By the turn of the 26th and the 28th Millennium. The combat and defensive model of Warsats were developed during this period, in order to combat the increasing threat from both alien and existential threats that mankind was currently facing.

For these satellites, mankind had armed them with a variety of weapon systems. From powerful X-ray lasers to long-range bombardment missiles, etc. These Warsats stand ready to defend their target and delivery a strike that will end the threat permanently, all at a moment's notice. While originally designed for interplanetary defense, Warsats can also be used to support ground operations. Delivering everything from orbital bombardment to around-the-clock orbital surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Also to add that some models of Warsats are capable of projecting a large energy shield while working together in conjecture with other Warsat satellites. Allowing mankind to form virtual fortifications and defense lines while in space and provide extra defenses to a Star system. These features are what make the Warsats one of humanity's most unique military equipment and are the centerpiece of their defenses. Being the backbone of the current modern-day defense network and the founder of the new doctrine associated with it.

They were also cheap to build and dispose of. Being initially designed as cheap defensive weapon systems. The Warsats were often easy to destroy and replace. But as time went on and more emphasis was placed on defense. These systems soon received the necessary countermeasure and defenses they surely need. While these upgrades hadn't allowed the Warsats to be invincible. It had allowed the Warsats longer survivability rates during times of combat. Today the Warsat is a system unlike any other of the past. Having no true equal to match it. It still remains the best defensive asset in humanity's hands defending them until the end of times.

Operations:

Within SolForce, Warsats, and orbital weapons satellites are typically manned, maintained, and operated by the SolForce Colonial Guard, presumably administered by the Orbital Defense Command. However, they may be employed for collateral and administrative functions by the SolForce navy.

History:

The original implementation of the system that would lead to the creation of the Warsats, started way back during the early days of space exploration. With mankind already laying the grounds for an interplanetary defense network. The predecessor to the Warsat was a series of satellites used for communications, reconnaissance, surveillance, and espionage missions. Eventually, mankind did place defensive weaponized satellites up in space. However, these were specialized models of orbital defense satellites purposed for first-strike operations. Initially being nothing more than a railgun/coilgun platform with one singular job, which is to defend the planet and nothing more. But as time went by and technology continued to advance. Satellites based-platforms were phased out by the more sophisticated at the time, Orbital Defense Platforms stations or ODP for short.

The Orbital Defense Platforms were a kind of armed satellite, but mostly in the forms of armed stations, fortresses, and citadels employed by humanity until the turn of the 26th millennium for defensive purposes. They can range massively in size and scope and are frequently deployed in a geosynchronous orbit around a given world to act as a defensive line against a potential invading enemy force. While the term ODP is a loose descriptor that can encompass a range of satellite types, ranging from small and/or unmanned satellites that consist simply of a missile pod linked to a targeting array and communications relay, up to the massive manned space stations that form the most predominant and iconic imagery of the concept. The largest of these are built around a core capital-scale Magnetic Accelerator Cannon (MAC), colloquially referred to as a "big stick", and serve as some of the largest and most powerful examples of MAC weaponry available to humanity. Or be equipped with particle and plasma, to direct energy-type weaponry as its main gun.

Alongside their primary defensive weaponry, ODPs may also equip a number of secondary armaments to aid in their own defense. These include point-defense guns. Larger OWPs usually also equip hangar support facilities for dropships and strike craft, with the precise examples carried varying across the fleet. OWPs are deployed in battle clusters of three stations, each designed to mutually support and reinforce one other. As such, each carries a slightly different loadout, allowing the three to each specialize in a particular collateral function and cover one another's bases.

OWPs may generate their electrical power through a number of means. Some designs maintain their own internal fusion reactors for fully-independent operation and can make use of liquid metal capacitor cells to store charge for the primary weapon. In emergency circumstances, it is possible to dock a friendly SolForce warship to the station, to make use of its reactor to aid the station in power cycling. The most powerful rapid-fire designs - consisting of the Erőd-class deployed over Alpha Centauri IIA - are so power-hungry as to make even onboard fusion reactors unsustainable. Instead, these few stations are manually tethered to ground-based generator facilities. While providing vastly higher amounts of power for the weapon systems of the platform, these separate generators also serve as a key defensive weakness for the station and are susceptible to forces on the ground in the event of an invasion.

These stations served as the main planetary defenses until the start of the 26th millennium when mankind first encountered alien life. More specifically hostile alien life, who took advantage of the weakness found in the ODP system and exploit it to their maximum effect. Resulting in several worlds, during the conflict that was known as the Metacon war, falling into the hands of the aliens. Added to the fact that ODP is very expensive to build and maintain, along with time-consuming to set up in place. Moreover, its large size meant that it was easy to be targeted and destroyed. Leaving the ODP with little time to defend the planet as long as possible before its destruction. And kill as many invaders during that short period of time. These various issues related to the ODP system revealed that mankind needed something that can be deployed quickly and cheaply.

Therefore, SolForce had to create something that would help address these issues. The result was the creation of the Warsat series satellite system. A series of cheap easy-to-make multitasking satellites capable of conducting reconnaissance, surveillance, espionage, stealth, and defensive missions. All in the package of a single satellite equipped with the best of the best state-of-the-art defensive countermeasures, equipment, and weaponry. These platforms were first deployed in worlds that were still awaiting the deployment and construction of their ODP. During the Metacon War, these systems would prove their worth in providing adequate defenses to a colony world. If not very effective, as no Prothean ships since the deployment of the Warsat had managed to penetrate the virtual defensive field created by these satellites. During the Reaper War, the Warsats would once again prove their worth.

In the course of the war of attrition against the Reapers. Warsats became valuable tools, being cheap and easy to make and maintain. These assets are what allowed mankind for a time to match up to the Reaper's numbers and helped maintain the constant grinding war of attrition that lasted for roughly one thousand and seven hundred years. In the present day, Warsats still make up the bulk of mankind's defenses. Contributing to roughly eighty percent of the number of defenses deployed in total. In the months after the breaking of the veil and the reveal of the Solarians and the survival of the ancients. Followed by the arrival of the Reapers and the commencement of the Second Reaper War. Numerous planets across the galaxy had put out a request for ancient weapons namely defenses to help protect their systems. The Warsats were popularized by the wider galaxy for their capabilities.

While individually each Warsat on their own has weapons that can destroy most ships from sizes of cruisers or lower. In pacts or groups, they can pose a massive threat to any attacking or invading fleet where their true power and effectiveness are shown. One such infamous example is during the battle of Terra, the capital world of the former Terran Assembly and now the System Alliance. Where a group of traitors of Sol Intelligence from the infamous group Cerberus, attempted to destroy the planet by flinging a massive Star Eater-class vessel the Subjugator at the planet. The ship itself was roughly three thousand and six hundred kilometers in diameter. Making it the size of a moon, such an impact would have destroyed the planet completely to the point of being unrecognizable. That is until the Warsat system which was installed around the planet months prior; started firing on the ship as it approach the planet.

In roughly seventy minutes, one hour, and thirty minutes to be precise, the countless hundreds of thousands Warsat bombarded the ship with everything it had in its arsenal. During that bombardment period, the weaponry of the Warsat breached through the ship's shields and then struck the core of the ship. Causing it to blow up, destroying the ship in its entirety. From that point on, the Warsat then began the effort to destroy as much debris as possible to prevent the planet from getting hit. While the satellites didn't get them all, some debris crashed down on Terra causing planetwide destruction. Damages that can be repaired, thankfully via Solarian Terraforming technology. While the defenses were imperfect, they still resulted in a large psychological effect on the people of the galaxy.

The idea that such a small satellite in massive groups and clusters could muster enough firepower to destroy a ship about the size of an average moon; has made many in the galaxy scramble to secure themselves access to the vaulted Warsat defense system. As of the present day, years after the Second Reaper War. The Warsat remains one if not the most recognizable defenses seen throughout the galaxy. With planets and their inhabitants sleeping safe and sound; always guarded by the Warsat's eternal vigilance.

A/N:

And this chapter is finally done.

This is only the prelude to the battle between the Quarians-Geth alliance against the Turian subjugation armada sent against them. I hope you all would enjoy it when that comes out. As for the Turians, their grudge against the Quarians runs deep. Apologies for those who want to see nice Turians. Do not fear, the Turians will eventually have their redemption arc as the story progresses deeper.

As for the greater reaction by the Citadel. That would be arriving in the chapter after the battle between the Quarians and the Turians. As of now, only the highest-ranking military and government of the Citadel Council are currently aware of the situation. We shall see the wider population reaction after the battle in the next chapter.

In the speech by the Primarch Chosen. I reference Rtas 'Vadum Motivational Speech from halo 2. It is such an iconic mantra and motivational speech, which I felt fits with the overall theme of the Turians here in this AU. For the Warsat section, of course, destiny and destiny 2 was the reference. The one tidbit about the destruction of the moon-size ship was a callback to the Almighty destruction event featured in destiny 2. Loved how a bunch of satellites were powerful enough to destroy something that size. Had to include it as part of humanity's growing Arsenal of planetary and interplanetary defenses.

As for the Heleus Cluster and the Jardaan race. They will be a side character introduced now. I plan to have a little Quarians interlude and side-story which will go with the in-universe. Featuring them in the Heleus cluster, meeting the Angara, and fighting to some limited extent the Kett. After this small and hopefully short interlude. We will begin to slowly make our way to the main Mass Effect story.

Anyways, this chapter is done. And I'll see you all in the next chapter when it is finished.