June 29th 2161. System SH-21/C. 20:10. Terran standard time. Surface of fourth planet in system.
"Have we completed the scans? Are there any more resources in this area?" Mazar was supervising the scientific scanning operations of the newly discovered garden world. He and his crew, along with that of several other scientific ships, had been combing the planet the last two days, searching for resources, bacteria, threats and any other information that might be of values to the fleet.
"Yes sir, the scans are finished. It would seem that the vein continues another two hundred meters along this ridge. There should be another four megatons of bauxite hidden here."
At first, the planet had seemed barren of any other resources but plants and animals. They could find no significant deposits of minerals or other such. But then they had discovered that, for some reason they were still trying to solve, that a good deal of the resources were clustered along the equatorial line of the planet. Knowing where to search, they had discovered that the planet was indeed, very bountiful.
"Alright move along the vien and chart a course. I want it all mapped out for mining."
Having arrived at the planet they had designated as the best candidate for colonization, they had immediately searched for threats to Quarian physiology. Finding nothing out of the ordinary, and a breathable atmosphere to boot, they had started mining and repairing their ships. It was slow progress; the fleet possessed little in the way of heavy duty mining equipment and housing for the mining crew. But they did their best, and the fleet was finally able to relax and make desperately needed repairs.
"Hara, mark this sector down for future mining, we need that bauxite to repair the electric systems. Make it a priority one."
The female Quarian nodded before typing on her omni-tool. He could feel the high morale of his team. They were excited, happy even. They had managed to evade the Citadel for months now, and without their constant pursuit they finally had time to make vital repairs to their failing ships. If they still hadn't been discovered within the next two weeks, the admiralty had decided to make the colonization permanent, allowing a large number of Quarians to settle on the planet surface and make more permanent settlements.
The change in their situation had the entire fleet in good spirits. They had retaken control of their own future. No longer did the Council get to decide where they could go, what they could take and when they had to leave. They were the masters of their own fate now. Maybe they could finally start preparing to take back Rannoch. He was in high spirits, smiling behind his mask.
That was until the alarms began.
A nervous yet collected voice of a female spoke over every omni-tool in the vicinity.
"All planet-side personnel, return to your ships and man your battle stations. Prepare for imminent attack. All military ships, set up a perimeter around the civilian ships, protect the liveships and the transports. All admirals are to assemble on the 'Narshya'. Ancestor guide and protect us."
The message had not even ended before the Quarians in his group were already storming towards the nearest shuttles. Taking everything they could carry with them in the rush. This was bad, worse than bad, this was a catastrophe. Had the council found them? Had they sent the Turians to attack? Were they really going to punish the Quarians so severely just for mining on an unclaimed world? This was why they had become so desperate, the unreasonable council would use any means they saw fit to keep the Quarians in their current state of poverty and decline.
It made Mazar both angry and sad. How could they do this to his species? Why did they deserve such harsh treatment? Had they not suffered enough already?
His shuttle dropped off the crew on their research ship, the 'Vraua' before resuming its flight towards the 'Narshya'. Looking out of the cockpit windows, he could see the entire fleet moving into position, the large live-ships in the center of the forming formation, and the few military vessels they possessed at the rim. He was gripping his knees in anxiety, what was it all about? He couldn't see any ships other than Quarian. Perhaps they had discovered the citadel ship while they were in transit.
The shuttle had barely touched down in the hangar bay before he stormed out. He knew the layout of the ship well and did not need a guide to show him to the meeting room. He ran along cluttered hallways and narrow gangplanks to get to the chamber, racing past scuttling crewmembers and worried civilians.
He burst into the chambers, seeing the other four admirals already assembled, and took his place around the table. He was breathing heavily, both from the hard run but also out of nervousness, but he managed to sound both collected and ready when he addressed the other admirals.
"What's going on? Is it the Council? The Turians? Are we under attack?"
"Relax admiral. We are not under attack. But a new threat has arisen that we must deal with immediately. While we are taking the necessary precautions, the general alarm was perhaps a bit preemptive."
Hiri Varoh, the admiral of the civilian fleet, looked at Vira Avah who was leaning over the table, looking at something on her omni-tool.
Vira looked up from whatever she was doing to address the accusation.
"Preemptive? We just received a threat to the very existence of our race. You call that preemptive? I am trying to protect the fleet and you are not doing much to help. What if we had been attacked? What if we will be attacked? Their ships might be on the way as we speak and I won't let the fleet be caught off guard."
Mazar was at a complete loss. He did not know what they were speaking of but both of the admirals seemed very tense and on edge.
"What are you talking about? Have the Council issued a threat? Why are we assuming combat formation if we are not under attack?"
He thought that he had missed something important. Something that he should be aware of. But apparently he was not the only one out of the loop. Valo Naron Vas Uevia, admiral of the support fleet, looked puzzled and frightened. Mazar could see it from the way he stood; his feet close together and slightly hunched over, trying to make himself very small.
"Will someone please tell me what is going on? If there is a threat then I need to be able to coordinate our ships properly. If there isn't a threat then I need to know why we have all been summoned and what all the commotion is about."
He could not keep a note of panic out of his voice. His body language emanated uncertainty and insecurity. Mazar could understand. This was all very unsettling.
Vira and Hiri looked around, suddenly discovering that they were apparently the only ones that knew what they were talking about.
"Did nobody else receive that message? We received it here on the 'Narshya' and assumed it had been fleet wide."
Hiri, seeing the other three admirals shake their heads and confirm her suspicion, activated her omni-tool and held out her arm for them all to see it properly.
"About thirty minutes ago, we received a message from an unidentified source. It does not originate from inside Council space, but rather from here in the Attican traverse."
A picture of an alien suddenly popped up from her omni-tool and the admirals who had not received the message gasped. It was not a species they were familiar with. Mazar leaned closer to get a better look at the creature. It looked remarkably similar to a Quarian, except its legs were far too straight and it had some weird ears and did not wear an environment suit. But if it had, he might have mistaken it for a deformed male Quarian. The similarities were many.
"This is remarkable. It looks so much like us. Do we know what it is?"
As an answer, Hiri touched a button on her omni-tool. The alien stated speaking, Mazar was shocked to find that his translator categorizing the language as being Quarian.
"Unidentified military fleet. This is captain Collins of the Imperial ship 'Sword of Hades'. You are trespassing within sovereign territory of the Empire of Man. Identify your purpose and intent or face the consequences. You have ninety minutes to answer this transmission or we will assume hostile intent and we will respond accordingly. Over and out".
At that the hologram froze, the video having been paused, and Hiri looked back at the other admirals who stood dumbfounded by the implications of the transmission.
"And you received this message thirty minutes ago?"
Hiri and Vira both nodded.
"Yes. Time is of the essence. These aliens are clearly threatening with an attack and I have prepared accordingly."
Vira looked as if she was about to speak when Mazar interrupted.
"Are we sure these are aliens? Maybe it is some ruse from the Citadel. It could be Batarian. How do we know this is genuine?"
It was a valid question. He did not think that it would be beyond the council to try such dirty tricks to control the Quarians. Make them believe they were under attack from an unidentified species, then make them look like the aggressors to the public. And how would the aliens know how to speak Quarian? It didn't make sense.
Vira answered.
"It might well be. But while we are unsure if it is a ploy, we are sure that if we do not answer one way or the other they are sure to take action. I propose we tell them why we are here. We simply seek to live in peace on this planet and do not seek hostility."
There was a short pause before anyone answered. It seemed that Vira was the strongest advocate for a peaceful message, but would they respond to such? Mazar knew that, while the Migrant Fleet was large, it was not as military capable as a wholly military fleet. While they could fend off most opponents, a direct and strong attack would cost hundreds of thousands of lives.
"I agree. We should state that we have only peaceful intent and do not seek hostilities. If these are truly alien then they must be frightened. Since they are able to communicate with us they must be space capable to some degree. This could actually be to our gain."
Mazar had quickly analyzed the facts in his mind. While everything suggested that it was a trap, it was a poor one at that. If they could communicate peacefully with them then an attack would make the aggressors look bad. Then the council would not be able to support or condone it and still retain a positive public opinion.
But if it were aliens then why could they speak Quarian? It did not make sense, but then again, maybe they spoke something so similar that it was just his translator which thought it was Quarian. But the odds were astronomical. And how did they possess the technology to make holo-messages? If they had discovered Prothean technology then and if they were active in the area then why had they not picked up any Eezo trails or discharges? Or found any active mass relays in the region? Nothing made sense.
"If they truly are alien then why would they threaten us? It what you say is true then they can't possibly have a large fleet that could pose a threat. If they have sensors that can pick up our movement then they must surely know the enormity of our fleet. And what do you mean 'to our gain'? what could we possibly achieve from this?"
Norak Serha Vas Yvaia, admiral of the Light fleet, looked calculatingly at Mazar. He obviously had something on his mind already, but he wanted to hear it from Mazar before he divulged what he himself had on his mind. It was a strategy he commonly utilized in meetings.
"Well, if they have just received space capability then they might wish to form trade agreements or other diplomatic ties with us. If we could be the ones to aid and guide them then maybe we could establish an alliance with them. But I'm convinced that this is a ruse. Something doesn't add up."
Hiri quipped in.
"But you agree that we should pursue peaceful relations? Even if it is a trap?"
He nodded before she continued.
"Well that settles that doesn't it? If we are all agreed that we should send a message of peace then why are we still standing here?"
There was no disagreement from any of the admirals. Aliens or not, they would not act hostile. If it turned out to be the council then they had lost the element of surprise and their chance to garner ill will towards the fleet by making them attack first. If it were aliens then their misguided threat was most likely based on fear or misinformation which could be remedied.
She set up the recorder and they agreed that admiral Hiri Havaroh should be the spokesperson of the Quarian people in this matter. Judging from the alien on the screen Mazar had guessed that they had the same sexual dimorphism as Quarians and would most likely find females less threatening. Of course, perhaps they didn't have females, or they held them in low regard. There were a hundred possibilities in the event that they indeed had met another race. But they had to go with what they thought was best.
"Greetings captain Collins. I am admiral Hiri Havaroh Nar Galion Vas Tavrain. I and the admiralty, speak on behalf of the peaceful Quarian people and the Quarian migrant fleet. We do not have hostile intentions or seek such against you or your kin, we only wish to remain peacefully in this system which we currently occupy. No threat was intended to you or your people and no aggressive action will be taken against any members of your species. We hope that you will accept our apology and that we have assuaged any fears that you or you crew might have possessed."
She made a low bow before they ended the transmission and sent the message on all channels in the direction of its origins.
The minutes passed slowly as they awaited either a response or an attack. They passed the time by planning for the imminent arrival of a military fleet and by discussing what they would do in case it turned out to be a genuine first contact.
"Should we really help them evolve? It would not look good if we unleashed another Krogan like race on the galaxy."
Mazar had his reservations about actively helping them evolve. While he was in favor of trade and such, he did not like the possibilities of too rapid an ascend for a new species.
"I agree. We have enough of a bad reputation with the Geth, to add another to the list would be too much for the Council to ignore."
Norak was standing straight, luminous eyes narrowed. Mazar could tell from his body language that he felt strongly about this. He would not be associated with another incident such as the Geth. And frankly, neither would he.
But Hiri was adamant too. She saw to many possibilities in uplifting a race.
"But what if they could be controlled? What if we could help them reach to new stars? They could help us regain our position in the Citadel. They did say they were an Empire, that would suggest militarism. If we could assist them then maybe we could assume some sort of leadership of them, help them."
Mazar sneered at her.
"Help ourselves more like. You would risk a galactic war for the sake of our standing? We would be putting everyone at risk, including our own people. What if they see us as oppressors? What if they decide that we are monsters and eradicate us?"
The discussion was about to take off when a small light started blinking on the table. Instantly, the room fell silent and they all looked intently at the little lamp. After a short while, Vira pressed it. Instantly a voice sounded through the chamber. They could all hear that this voice did not belong to the Captain with whom they had spoken with before. This voice was somehow lighter, but more commanding and yet diplomatic.
"Greetings admirals of the Quararian fleet. I am admiral of the second order Michael Notcher of the Imperial 478th legion. We are relieved to hear that the Quararian people does not have hostile intent with that of the Human race and we invite you to join us in peaceful negotiations on the surface of a nearby planet so that we may come to speak with, and understand, each other. I hope that you will agree to meet us so that we may pursue peaceful relations. Notcher out."
As string of coordinates was then received which marked the location of the planet on which they would negotiate. They looked at each other. This had taken an unexpected turn.
"They wish to meet us? This was unexpected, perhaps it would be prudent to send a diplomat then. But I still don't like this."
Valo was immediately on his toes.
"We must send a person of sufficient rank. If they truly are a new species then we must not offend them by sending one of too low importance. But neither can we risk the entire admiralty in case it is a trap."
Mazar knew who would be sent then. In case of an attack they would need the command structure of the civilian and military fleets to be as intact as possible. That meant that the admiral who would be most expendable would be the one sent to negotiate. In a combat scenario, that happened to be the admiral leading the Scientific fleet. In case of either an attack or war, the scientific fleet would be the one with the least to add in the short term. Therefore the sacrifice of the admiral of the scientific fleet would have the least impact on the war effort.
And true to form, he was unanimously elected as the representative of the Quarian people. He knew that it wasn't because the others were afraid. Each and every one of them would gladly lay down their lives for the Quarian fleet. But in this case, he was simply the most expendable of them. He was prepared to go.
"Should you bring a gift?"
It seemed like a silly question, but in many cultures it was considered customary to bring gifts of good will to negotiations. He thought about it for a minute. A bad gift could cause a war. He did not know if his gift would be considered offensive, or maybe it would be a declaration of intent.
"Perhaps we should give them something simple. Like a piece of artful cloth like we use for our shawls."
He nodded.
"That would be a good gift. Artful, but not something that could be misinterpreted as insulting. At least I don't think so. I hope it will suffice."
And so they began preparing for the meeting with this new species. There was a thousand things to discuss, each had its own implications and could ruin the meeting. They had to consider every aspect of what they did. Was this insulting? Did this seem aggressive? Could this be misread? Things like his suit, his posture, his tone, his escort, the number of guards, their stance, the way he looked at the diplomat. Everything had to be just right.
"And remember. We have to be honest. We cannot allow them to catch us lie. Maybe not tell them the whole truth, but not lie."
Mazar had not truly thought about the implications of him being the representative of his species. But now, his gut was rolling around in uproar. He felt more nervous than he could ever recall having felt before. The future of the Quarian people rested singularly on his shoulders. He did not feel ready at all.
June 29th 2161. System AD-11/LR. 22:52. Terran standard time. Surface of second planet in system, designated T2-18N.
Senator Kim Zigman was waiting on the surface of the planet, a bit anxious at meeting aliens for the first time. He already knew of the Empire's successful negotiations with the alien government, and he was quite happy that they weren't annihilated in the process, but he was now waiting to meet with these 'Quararians'. He had been told that these were not affiliated with the other aliens that they had spoken with. In his opinion, the galaxy suddenly housed too many damned aliens.
He had been sent to accompany a fleet that would leave immediately to patrol a sector close to Earth, that was less than four hours ago. He had not been told why and he hadn't asked. Less than an hour into the patrol they had spotted some unidentified ships in a nearby system. They had contacted command on Earth who informed them that they believed the ships to belong to a race called the Quararian. The admiral had acted promptly, expecting them to be hostile.
They only reason that they had sent a message was because the Grand Admiral had made a direct order for them to do so. He had still believed that the aliens would attack and had prepared to meet his doom.
But now, after having received their friendly message, it seemed that a diplomatic method would become available. They did not seem overly threatening, and the admiral assured him that, should the situation turn sour, he would be evacuated and escorted back to Earth. He found it all a bit strange. Something about the whole episode seemed… Fishy. Still, he had never felt so nervous, and so giddy. When he saw the alien shuttle descend towards the planet he made sure that everyone was in position. He checked on the Praetorian guardsmen, six of them, who had been assigned as his escort, another curious thing he thought didn't add up, and made sure that they stood at an acceptable distance. He had been told that four sniper teams were hidden in the vicinity, but he had not been told where.
The shuttle touched down, its belly opening to allow him his first view of these new aliens. He had to admit that he was a little disappointed when he saw that they were all wearing some kind of environment suit. He could not understand why, even though the planet wasn't a garden world it still had a comfortable atmosphere and plenty of air. Maybe it was something with the way they breathed? Well he was a diplomat and not a xenoologist so he stopped contemplating about such trivial matter.
When the Quararians, five in total, had all disembarked and formed up, with one individual in front of the others, he seized the opportunity to get his first good look at them. They struck him as very similar to humans, except their weird legs. But the suits made it hard to be sure. He could see they were a good deal smaller than humans, less mass, but about the same height.
Seeing that they were apparently waiting for him to begin, he moved forward and bowed, Mirroring the action of the Quararian in the holo.
"Greetings emissary of the Quararians. I am Kim Zigman, senator of the Empire of Man, here to negotiate with you."
The alien mirrored his bow and placed a hand on his left breast. He knew that the translator worked, they had used it in communicating with them after all, but was still surprised at how human the individual sounded.
"Greetings Kim Zigman. I am admiral Mazar Zaron Vas Rvian. I shall negotiate on behalf of the Quarian people"
He heard the slight pressure that the male, from the voice he assumed he was male, had placed on the word and made a mental note to remember how he pronounced his species name. He smiled, hoping it wasn't a threat or something.
"I hope that we can develop peaceful bonds between our people."
Two of the Praetorians went to the shuttle and brought out two chairs and a simple table. They had waited to see if the Quarians were truly as peaceful as they seemed. Since no attack seemed imminent he assumed that they were. So they might as well get comfortable.
They seated themselves on the simple chairs, no time to procure anything luxurious, before they continued.
"So, admiral Rvian. It has come to our attention that a huge fleet has been positioned in a system in Imperial possession. We would be pleased if you could clarify the purpose of your fleets presence in said system."
He made sure to not sound threatening or angry. He didn't know why they made such a big fuss about it. It wasn't like they were using the system anyway. But while he wasn't military, he still had orders to negotiate with the aliens. And since he knew that the emperor had taken a special interest in them he acted nice. He didn't really see the point in going to war with them anyway. Not like they were really aggressive or anything.
"I apologize for or intrusion into your territory. We did not know of your existence or that the system was in your possession. We simply came to mine and colonize the system since we are in dire need to have a safe haven for our people."
Well that was odd. Why didn't they just stay in their home system.
"But why that particular planet? Why not inside Citadel space? Are you enemies or fugitives?"
He had a hard time reading the alien. But he could see him making some movements that reminded him of when his youngest girl had done something she shouldn't and was afraid to tell.
"Our biology does not allow us to populate many systems. The protein structure of the life on that planet is compatible to our own, which is rare, while not being overtly hostile towards us, which is even rarer. We cannot settle inside Citadel space since we are not a member species. We were kicked out due to complications with our relationship. But that is three-hundred years ago. We are currently barred from colonizing any planets. We do not have access to resources That is why we came here, looking for a place to stay, in peace."
He had to admit that he was stunned. Had they really roamed the stars for three hundred years? No wonder their ships were so banged up. But it also reflected on the Citadel. Why would they allow them to be in such a state.
"What are your continued purpose in the system? Will there be problems between the patrols and your fleet?"
The alien shook his head, a strangely comforting gesture.
"No senator. We only wish to live in peace with our neighbors. We will remain in the system if you will allow it, we will even allow a presence of a small human fleet to watch over us. We do not wish conflict with you or your people."
He kept saying that. It was weird, like a mantra. The Quarian turned and gestured for one of his people to move up. The Praetorian immediately reached for their weapons, ready to interfere if he tried anything.
But it seemed that no such action was required. The alien, who looked female, reached behind her and produced a lovely piece of fabric. Embroided with intricate symbols and figures. It was beautiful. The female gave the fabric to the admiral who then handed it to him. He was at first hesitant to take it, afraid that it would be the wrong thing to do.
"It is a gift. From the Quarian people to the human race."
He gratefully took it, mentally kicking himself for not bringing a gift of his own. But then, an idea came to him.
"Honored admiral. In light of your gift, and in spirit of good will and coexistence, we the citizens of the empire, give unto you, the Quarian people, the system designated SH-21/C as a gift. Seeing that no ill will was intended and that the humble and honest Quarian people are in such dire need."
He could see the shock, or what he believed was shock, in the admiral. Even those behind him seemed taken aback by the show of generosity. None had shown them such compassion, such mercy or good will before.
"We… we thank you for your kind and generous gift. May it forever be a symbol of the bonds between our people."
At that there really wasn't much more to talk about. They had establish a sort of base relationship and borders, the Quarians staying within the system and humans staying outside, and he didn't really have that many questions himself. But the Quarian admiral had dozens.
"So you know of the Citadel? Have your government communicated with them?"
He seemed very absorbed by this point. Zigman had quickly learned that much of the alien's body language was the same as humans. Often much more exaggerated.
"Indeed. We negotiated an equally beneficial deal between our two nations."
He seemed puzzled at that.
"Two nations? Have you not been absorbed by the citadel council?"
He seemed genuinely shocked to discover that they hadn't. Indeed he looked a little exhilarated as well to learn that the two nations were separated entirely.
Suddenly, a chime in his multitool commanded his attention. It was a short message from the fleet admiral. It simply read.
'Terminate negotiations. Leave on good terms but do not continue conversation.'
But why? It was going so well. But he knew better than to ask. He stood up.
"It has been a pleasure admiral. But I am afraid duties call me elsewhere. I hope that we may resume our talks at a later date."
They departed quickly after that, the Quarian seemed puzzled at his sudden departure and he himself was also a bit befuddled. He arrived at the hanger to find the admiral and a squad of soldier waiting for him. This was not good.
"Senator. There is someone who would like to speak to you."
The admiral's hard voice was undeniable. His mouth suddenly felt dry. Perhaps giving them a system was too much.
He was escorted to a small chamber, a holo-projector in the center. He was then left alone. Sweat was streaming off him. He did not know what this was all about, but he did not like it. When the holo-projector activated he was relieved that he might be told what would happen. That lasted less than two seconds before he realized who stood before him. He threw himself to the ground.
"My lord. How may I be of assistance?"
He was trembling with fear and terror. While he had seen the man many times in the senate, he had never been close to him. And never, absolutely never, had he talked to him personally.
The hologram of the emperor simply smiled at him.
"Why senator, you already have."
August 11th 2161. System SH-21/C, renamed 'Cennoc', New-Garden. 20:10. Terran standard time. Aboard the 'Narhya'.
He looked out the window of the shuttle on its way to the Quarian Cruiser in orbit. He couldn't believe how well it was all going. The colonization and building effort was progressing faster than even their most optimistic plans had scheduled. After they had been given the system by these humans, they had begun the effort of entrenching the system, building cities, mines and reinforcing the fleet's guns and repairing their armor. The humans had only made short contact with them after their initial meeting. Mostly it was polite questions about the Quarians and their relationship with the Citadel, or about the Quarians past history and other such topics.
He was quite pleased that the humans seemed content remaining on the sidelines, they didn't bother the Quarians and the Quarians made sure not to make a nuisance of themselves. There were plans of perhaps opening trade-routes between them, but the Quarians had little to sell, and little to buy with so the plan was on hold for now.
He entertained the thought of maybe claiming a piece of land, settling somewhere, cultivating the land, growing crops and such. But he soon dismissed the idea. This was a good beginning, but it wasn't home. It wasn't Rannoch. He had received a call for another meeting of the admirals. He was a bit nervous, it had sounded urgent. But many of the meetings lately sounded urgent. Perhaps it was the fact that the Citadel still hadn't located them. Perhaps it was the fact that they still knew nothing about their new neighbors.
Arriving at the 'Narshya' he walked at a steady pace to the meeting rooms, seeing that yet again, he was the last to arrive.
"Well? What is this all about?"
He saw that the others looked puzzled, not alarmed. This made him relax a bit.
"We have received a new message from the humans. This one is a bit… Odd."
His good mood that he had been nursing despite his nervousness immediately disappeared. It had all been too good to be true anyway. Nobody just gives a system away. Especially not to the Quarians. They had probably talked to the Council and they had threatened them or something such.
They played the message. Mazar was not surprised to see a flustered Senator, the one with whom he had spoken with a few months ago, facing them.
"Greetings admirals of the Quarian people. I have been instructed on behalf of our leader to invite you to a stately dinner to be held on the 14th of August, three cycles from now, at the Imperial palace in the capital city of our home world, to mark the beginning of the future relationship between our two great nations. All of your admiralty board are invited and you may each bring a guest of your choosing. We hope that you will all join us for an evening of festivities and celebrations."
The message ended, and Mazar was truly perplexed. What was this all about?
August 13th 2161. Widow. 08:22. Terran standard time. The human embassy.
Sitting in his new, very luxurious, offices on the citadel, Liam Cunningham, the ambassador of the Empire of Man, evaluated his new opportunities. While he had not yet officially been replaced as the Prime minister, that would happen at the election in two months, he had still chosen to leave the Terran system and prepare the new embassy. Thing would be better that way, he understood that his presence on Earth would only… Complicate matters.
He had already brought all the furniture that would be needed, along with his own personally elected staff, all loyal to him, and with a good deal of provisions that would last them a few months.
The whole setup had gone without a hitch. The Council, true to its word, had not interfered in any way. Although they had already removed fifteen bugs and listening devices from the premises everything seemed to be in order.
He reviewed the current trade and corporations deals that had been worked out between the various races of the Citadel, and the Terran Empire. It was mostly Medical and infrastructural devices and such that had been agreed on, but exchange of scientists and culture was also beginning to bloom.
It was tightly regulated, nothing military or technology which could be used to make military equipment was exported from any human world. And everyone that they let in was viewed and followed with suspicion.
However, most of this was of little interest to the former prime minister.
"And you have their loyalty? They won't turn on us?"
He was conversing with an associate he had met on the space station when he arrived. The Turian, whom he had been working closely with, sat across from him, his feet up on the expensive mahogany table, his talons making small scratches on its surface.
"Sure sure. As long as we pay the fee they'll do whatever we tell them to. Not like they have much choice, being mercenaries an' all, but as long as the creds are flowing they'll be loyal."
His mandibles spread in a smile, an ugly gesture, and he but his arms behind his head as he assumed an even more relaxed position.
Liam entirely disliked the man. He wasn't subtle, barely even above average intelligence, of mediocre wealth, and with no appreciation of anything else but alcohol and credits. His name was Actuvian, and he was perhaps one of the most disgusting and abhorrent aliens he had ever met.
"Excellent. And the Batarians? Are they cooperating?"
"Yeah, they are behaving alright, not often someone actually hires them for this kind of job, but they take what they get."
He made a mental note to have the leaders of the Batarian crews assassinated when this was done. It wouldn't do to have witnesses.
"And what about your associates on the station? They won't object or ask questions?"
"None at all. As long as we don't go shouting off the roof tops they won't ask any questions. And as long as I get my *ahem* standard fee, they won't even find out."
He looked expectantly at Liam who produced a small suitcase. Within it was a large number of small, silvery, bars of platinum, stamped with the picture of a wolf-like creature, and all shining new. They were worth more than eighty million citadel credits.
"You can take whatever is left when they have all received their share. There should be a little bonus for you too."
The Turians eyes went wide when he quickly deduced the size of his bonus. He got up from his chair and made to leave. But Liam had one last thing to say.
"And if I ever find out that you have double crossed me? You will end up like the guy they found in the lake."
He could see the horror on the Aliens face, even with all his strange features. Ten days ago, the body of a male Turian had been discovered, floating around in the Presidium lakes. His fringes, mandibles, fingers and toes were all missing. So did most of his teeth and other, more private, parts of him. The C-sec doctors concluded that he had been subject to hours of torture and had only recently been killed.
He knew that Actuvian understood the threat, and understood the part that Liam himself had played in his demise. When the Turian left the office, he was certain that every single one of those bars would make it into the right hands.
He contacted his secretary. He was ready for the next appointment of the day.
"Miriam. Send in my 8:45. And bring me a coffee, the golden Peruvian. And something for the councilor."
She acknowledged and less than a minute later, the familiar form of the Asari Councilor sauntered through the door.
"Greetings honorable councilor, I have given your proposition much thought…"
August 14th 2161. Terran home system. 17:22. Terran standard time. Aboard the MFV 'Revianar'.
Mazar was sitting in the finest, most repaired, cruiser that the migrant fleet could produce. They were all gathered in the shuttlebay where him, and his beautiful wife Shianaa, alongside the other Admirals and their escorts, were waiting to enter the Human's home system.
He could feel the trepidation and the excitement in the air. Their body language, very pronounced due to the lack of readable facial expressions, showed a mixture of nervousness and excitement. None could remember the last time Quarians had been invited to dine with the crème of any society. This would provide a great opportunity to expand and reinforce their relations with the illusive humans. They might learn more about the race and their goals.
The shuttlebay was open, shielded by a kinetic barrier which allowed them a spectacular view of the system as they exited FTL drive. When the laid eyes upon the human home system, there was a collected gasp from all present.
Outside, surrounding the beautiful green and blue marble that was Earth, was a swarm of some of the largest military ships any of them had ever seen. There were literally thousands upon thousands of ships, more than a hundred which were easily distinguishable as being dreadnought class.
"By the ancestors."
Their view was blocked by the single largest spaceship anyone of them had ever seen. It gracefully flew past their view. It was a great distance off, but to any Quarian deserving the name, there was no question. This was the single largest spaceship that had ever been constructed. Bristling with guns, shuttle pads and missile platforms, the ship was a leviathan of destruction.
"It's monstrous… how is it even capable of flight?"
As they packed into the two shuttles and headed for the capitol, every eye was still fixed on the gargantuan spaceship. Either by coincidence, but more likely by design, the route the shuttles were to take brought them directly in front of the ships monstrous frontal cannon. It was large enough that the two shuttles could comfortably fly, side by side, through the barrel.
They left the ship behind them, heading towards the marble. On the way they passed several orbital gun platforms, each of them heavily armed and fortified. They all understood now, how severely they had underestimated the capabilities of the Humans. It made Mazar even more happy that their initial contact had been friendly.
"I thought that this was supposed to be a friendly dinner. But it seems that these humans are more interested in showing off".
Mazar looked at admiral Vira. He could understand her resentment. But she was looking at it all wrong.
"They are just reminding us that they are capable of defending themselves. Remember, we are the ones who parked a fifty-thousand ship fleet right on their doorstep."
She conceded the point. There was little talk as they approached the city. But when it came into view, there was yet another gasp of awe from them. They had just witnessed the sheer destructive power that these Humans possessed. Now, they saw their architectural brilliance. Bellow, was a city of pure gold. Tall towers, covered in windows that reflected the light of the setting sun, filled their view. The domed roofs of some of the enormous building covered in gold plating, pillars, statues and great plazas were littered across the giant city. Many a building was draped in red and golden banners. It was beautiful.
Too soon, their view of the spectacular city was cut off as they landed by the single largest and most opulent structure in the entire city. The white and gold walls enclosing several bodies of water, gardens and other recreational areas.
They stepped out, seeing a small honor-guard assembled to escort them through the premises. Mazar was dumbfounded by the sheer beauty of the gardens, the hallways and the courtyards they were escorted though. All of them covered in paintings and art. Truly, these humans possessed some of the greatest artisans he had ever seen. He looked forward to meeting their leader.
August 14th 2161. Terran home system. 17:54. Terran standard time. The imperial palace.
Michael was concerned for the young boy, indeed he was concerned about Augustus a lot lately. His heart broke every time he saw him down the cocktail of pill and prescription medications that he was taking. Pills against stress, pills against nervousness, pills against migraines and headaches, pills against his developing ulcer, pills against his heightened blood pressure. He had seen it all before. Augustus's farther, his friend, had been just like him. The stress of governing the Empire was too much for any single man, even good men like the Tiberius line.
Augustus' servants had left shortly after they had dressed him, leaving only Michael and Augustus in the large room. He looked so regal in his royal dress. But the mask he put on before he left his private room was not there. He was just a scared boy, a powerful but scared boy.
Michael but his hand on his shoulder, trying to calm him. He could see the fear in his eyes. The fear of failure, the fear that he would not be able to do what was necessary. Every day, he had that look.
"You can do it Augustus. We have rehearsed this. Remember, this is for the greater good."
He could see the gratitude in his face. Augustus was like a son to him, he had taken care of him and his brothers. They had never had a mother. To make the emperors the peak of human evolution, they were created, using genetic material from the father and the best genetically grafted material as the mother. The Tiberius line was free of diseases, free of malformations, free of flaws. But not free of human emotions.
Augustus took his hand a squeezed it tightly.
"I know. But still, so much depends on me. If I get this wrong a war could break out between our people. Will they really give up their freedom, their sovereignty just because we demand it?"
Michael had no answer. As Augustus left to join the gathered members of the two races he could see how he straightened his back, and put on his mask. Yes, too much depends on you, my dear Augustus.
August 14th 2161. Terran home system. 18:00. Terran standard time. The imperial palace.
He made his dramatic entry, heralds proclaiming his arrival as he gracefully descended the white marble stairs to the great northern hall. He immediately spotted their Quarian guests. Of the four-hundred invited, they were the only ones wearing full enviro-suits. He made his way directly towards them. He could see how they were all staring at him. Or he assumed that they were since he couldn't actually see their faces.
As he neared them he made a discreet inquiry to James about the guests. Before he reached them, he knew the name, rank and position of each and every one of them.
"Welcome honored admirals. I am happy that you could all come on this day so that we can celebrate the growing friendship between the Human Empire and the Quarian migrant fleet."
He smiled, he had read all the information they had gathered on these people and was distraught to learn how they had come to be resented a hated by the other species. He was impressed by their resilience and endurance, but he had other motives for their presence today.
One of them stepped forward, his posture uncertain and a bit clumsy.
"We are happy that our relationship with the human race has transpired so well. But please tell me, are you truly the leader of the Human Empire?"
He understood his uncertainty. He was young, except by Salarian standards, and for him to rule an entire Empire was perhaps a bit too much to believe for an alien.
"Yes. I am the supreme ruler of the entire human empire. I am of course backed by the senate and the ministry who help me with the enormous endeavor."
He could see the different dignitaries, senators and ministers he had invited were beginning to press in closer to the curious looking guests.
"Please, don't let me hold you up any longer, mingle with the other guests. I am sure that you will all have plenty to talk about."
He left them. He would greatly have liked to talk to them, but that would have to wait until dinner. But while he waited he talked with the other guests, as the reports from the various agents and others who were talking with the Quarian admirals filled in. He would need every edge he could get.
When they finally left the great hall to assume their places at the enormous table covered in all manner of food and exotic dishes, even food the Quarians were able to eat, bought at great expense from the Turians, and in very small quantities so it did not become overly suspicious.
He was placed at the end of the table, flanked on both sides by a Quarian admiral, Mazar Zaron Vas Rvian on his right, and Hiri Havaroh Vas Tavrain on his left.
During the first few courses, the two admirals were guarded and nervous. But as they became more comfortable they started to become more eager and talked freely about the fleet, the new system, and their relationship with the Citadel.
"For months they have been hunting us. We only wish to live in peace and to have our home back. But they won't let us."
"So they wish to destroy you? Are they truly that cruel?"
She shook her head.
"No. They would probably quarantine us in a system, with no resources, condemning us to a slow but sure death due to lack of resources to repair our ships."
"And are they still searching for you? Would they still attack you now that you have your own system?"
He had made sure that no mention of the Quarians were made to the public. Their presence was top secret. And he had made sure that the Quarians did not know about the humans agreement with the Citadel. It was important for his plans.
"I believe they would. It would truly be a devastating blow… We have invested so much into this system. It is so strange having a home again. Somewhere for our people to reside on. We are deeply grateful for your generosity your highness."
It stung him to hear her sincerity. She was truly grateful for what they had done, and he was happy to have helped a people in need. But he had to look at his subjects first.
"Unfortunately… Some groups within our government believes that our gift to your people were a bit… too much. Some would like to alert the Citadel council about your position, I that case we would be powerless to help."
He could see their shock. It was not hard to read the expression in their body language.
"But we thought you were the supreme ruler. We have worked hard and diligently to make a home for ourselves. We thought that we had a good relationship with the people of Earth. Why would they hand us over to the cruel Council."
"I am only the ruler of the gathered state and Empire. But the people are still my employers. If they do not wish to hide the Quarian race then I am almost powerless to stop them. They are perhaps afraid that the council would become aggressive and attack us. While our fleet is large and powerful, we cannot hope to fight off the gathered forces of the Citadel. Some foolhardy members of the senate believes that by surrendering the Quarian people, we appease the Citadel."
Most of it was a lie. Very few even knew of the existence of Quarians, let alone, would hand them over to the citadel council. But it was only a small lie. The male on his right, the Quarian named Mazar, snapped to attention.
"Almost? You said almost powerless?"
Augustus did his best to look sympathetic, but also conspiring.
"Well… There is a way that I could remove the decision from the hands of the Senate. But… it's risky and the Quarian people might not like it. I would not even suggest it, it is so truly outrageous, but I have heard of your plight and it has touched me deeply. I wish to help the Quarian people as best I can. Even if it means that I shall call upon us the wrath of the Citadel dictators."
They looked intrigued, he had them on the hook.
"How your highness?"
He straightened his back, looking his most powerful and regal, a hard thing to do for a seventeen-year-old boy, before he dramatically answered.
"If the Quarian people were to accept vassalage to the Human Empire, and recognize me as their ruler, then they would be entitled to protection and aid by the gathered might of the human navy and army."
They looked dumbfounded, stupefied. Maybe even a bit insulted. When the male spoke next, his voice was unsteady.
"You would have us give up our freedom, for protection? Would we even be allowed to make decisions for our own people?"
He was starting to sound fearful. Augustus had suspected this. They thought that if they refused, the humans would confiscate their single world. He would avoid it if he could, but most likely he would be forced to do just that.
"Yes, all internal decisions will be decided by a board of Quarians, under the supervision of a small human task group. But any external decisions will be taken by the senate. I know it is a lot to consider. But together, neither of us need fear the tyranny of the council. We would be free of them. The Quarian people would be able to make a new home, not just in your new system but wherever they wished. You would receive resources, machines, tools and manpower to expand and improve your holdings. New systems, new colonies. United, we are strong, divided we will fall."
At this they both fell silent. It was not a pleasing proposition. No species, no state, no government no matter how weak and destitute would admit to have failed in such a degree that they would need the help of another. The Quarians were aware of the Humans wealth and power. It had become clear on their visit to the capitol. It would not be an equal partnership.
A gentle bell rang. Augustus rose, as did all the guests upon seeing him do so, and he called out.
"This concludes the last meal. Now, if everyone would follow the servants we will proceed to the front to watch the spectacle."
August 14th 2161. Terran home system. 20:00. Terran standard time. The imperial palace.
Mazar was disappointed. He had hoped that the humans would engage with his people on an equal basis. But it seemed that they were aware of the Quarian's precarious situation He disliked the idea, hated it even, that they would become vassals to a single state. But he was split. Would it really be such a bad thing? Sure they might surrender their freedom and the right to govern themselves. But they would have security. They would finally be free of the endless prosecutions of the citadel. But their future, which they had just retaken, would be lost.
He was curious as to their destination. They were being led back towards the entrance from whence they came. But he was sure that the Emperor had mentioned something about a spectacle. He walked up besides the boy, who was accompanying the small group of Quarians.
"What manner of spectacle has your highness prepared for this evening?"
A smile spread across his lips.
"Oh the usual, to mark the meeting of two people. You could call it a tradition here on Earth. It is something we have done for thousands of years, ever since the first great nations came across each other."
He would say no more than that. Mazar thought about what he could mean. They knew precious little about human culture and history and he was sure that if it was so important it would have been all over the historic texts.
He began feeling a slight tremor in the ground. He looked at the other whom all showed signs of feeling the tremble. The humans didn't seem to mind however, so they followed. Soon, he began hearing cheering, and foot-steps. It sounded like one thunderous step of a titan, repeating itself every second. He could also hear the rumbling of engines. It grew louder and louder, the tremors became more and more violent. As they walked through a long corridor towards a gargantuan golden door, he could feel his entire body shaking.
Then, the doors burst open, and he saw the source of it all. His mouth fell open, and his knees went weak.
Standing on a large balcony, they all had a great view of a sea of red, green and purple. The sun glinted off gun-metal grey plates and knifes. The tracks of tanks and the tires of vehicles digging into the road, planes screaming overhead. And endless ranks of human soldiers, walking in perfect unison, the line extending towards both horizons.
Before them, was the single largest military parade he had ever seen. Either in historic documents, newscasts or any other place in the galaxy.
The road, more than a kilometer wide and extending endlessly towards both sides, were filled with soldiers and vehicles. Regiments of red-armored, rifle armed soldiers walked side by side, a thousand men broad and a thousand men long. Between each titanic block of soldiers followed thousands of vehicles, some of them with their roof removed to allow them the view of even more red clad soldiers. The largest guns he had ever seen, rolled by on enormous tracks. Mechs, more than ten meters tall, walked on two legs in groups of a few dozen, followed by a hundred smaller ones. The procession continued on in both direction until the curve of the planet denied him further view.
Across the skies flew swarms of fighters, bombers and hundreds of frigates. Even cruisers and ships that could only be dreadnought crowded the skies.
He could see his fellow admirals in a similar state of amazement and awe. On his right side, the emperor smiled broadly and proudly at this display of power.
"This is but a mere fraction of our might. While we fear that the tyrannical citadel council will attack us, we do not fear for our future. We fear for the loss of life that will follow. Not just for us, but for the entire galaxy. Together, the Quarian protectorate, and the Human Empire, will deter any foolish attack on us. We will secure the galaxy and save it from such a monstrosity."
Mazar's eyes began to blur. He saw spots in front of him, he felt faint.
"There are even some in the senate who shouts that we should forcefully conquer the Quarian people. Your large fleet is a threat to our colonies. Many find it disturbing that you have been able to evade the council, and they call for your subjugation. Those voices are few and far between. But it is the same on the citadel. They believe the Quarians have become to free, too evasive. If the Quarian people were to submit to the Human Empire, they would be protected from the Council. We will fight for you, but only if you join us. No human soldier will die for an enemy."
Mazar felt sick. He knew what he meant. Join us and live at our mercy, or refuse, and die by the hands of the Citadel council.
"What would you have us do… My liege?"
Well, back from vacation. Most of this chapter was written before i left, but for some reason it just never came out right. Hope nobody was dissapointed by the Quarian/Human meeting. Well in other news, we just reached over 200 favs. I had no idea that this fic would ever become so popular, and the support really helps keep me going. I'd like to say thanks to every one who has taken the time to review my work, and i would also like to give credit to Brodur who have been beta reading this chapter. Hope you stick around for next chapter, it might take a while comming out though, it is a bit heavy. But until thenn ;)