Alternate Past Uncertain Future Mk II

Chapter 32

"Confront them with annihilation, and they will then survive; plunge them into a deadly situation, and they will then live. When people fall into danger, they are then able to strive for victory."

-Sun Tzu, The Art of War

Resurgence

If one were to compare the space and worlds scattered throughout the Hegemony between now and only a month ago, there would be a startlingly contrast. Security had always been tight throughout the territory of the Batarian Hegemony but now there seemed to be police and soldiers stationed everywhere. The Hegemony had closed its borders off entirely to non-military traffic and was tightly monitoring virtually everyone who entered or left its space. Trying to completely isolate the Rebellion and cut all outside aid. It was nothing short of a self-imposed blockade.

Cutting off all trade with its neighbors had the Hegemony spending more on security than ever before. In all likelihood, the expenditure would possibly have plunged the Hegemony economy into a recession or outright depression, if not for support from the Council Races. The Asari Republics in particular were transferring an exorbitant amount of economic aid to the batarian government. Leaving Datak Korra's regime free to focus on the eliminating the Rebellion.

An opportunity that the High Admiral, now the Supreme Chancellor a newly created officer and title, was exploiting to the utmost. Factories, personnel, even the entire bureaucracy was almost dedicated purely to searching for, locating, and destroying the Rebels. And it was working. With no one or nothing to hinder or limit his actions and decisions, Korra was finally able to exercise the measures that he wanted since the Rebels proved themselves to be a credible threat.

Soldiers, law enforcement officers, the secret police and even civil service workers were all dedicated to rooting out and eliminating the Rebels. With the establishment of Martial Law, they had even greater reign than before to do whatever they felt was necessary to acquire critical information. In the only a month, seventy-six rebel cells had been found and eliminated. With each cell consisting of anywhere from a dozen to several dozen people, that was hundreds of lives lost. Additionally, any and all Rebel sympathizers discovered had been executed as well, regardless if they had or had not aided the Rebels in any capacity whatsoever. Further raising the death toll from the mid-hundreds, to the low-thousands. And that was on Khar'shan alone.

Similar purges swept across the length and breadth of the entire Batarian domain. Rank and prestige no longer mattered. If you were a Rebel or sympathetic to their cause, you and your family would be executed, and all assets confiscated in the name of 'Galactic Security'.

Adding to this reign of terror, literally tens of thousands of 'suspected supporters' had been imprisoned by the Hegemony, with even more under observation. The number had risen so high and so quickly, that Korra had been forced to convert several of his large cargo ships into mobile prison barges. Imprisoning people had literally become a growth industry. Because imprisonment and execution was now a threat to everybody who showed the slightest hint of disloyalty to the new regime.

The message was clear to all who could see it: Datak Korra was no longer playing around.

Ironically, to those loyal to the Hegemony and its leader, life had never been better. With no squabbling politicians vying for power at the cost of its citizens, funds that once been filled the pockets of embezzlers, were now filling the pockets of the people. The quality of life having risen dramatically with their new found wealth, many were more than willing to allow and even support the Supreme Chancellor in his endeavors, whatever they may be.

Gorik Vekn was one of these eager loyal supporters. One of many new fresh recruits in the batarian military, he had just recently finished his Basic training. For Gorik, he was following a long-time tradition, having come from a family that had been serving in the Hegemony's armed forces for generations. His father had even served under Korra during the Chancellor's early days when both served in the Terminus systems. His father had nothing but the highest praise and respect for his former commanding officer. And had could not have been more pleased when Gorik had told him just why he was signing on with the Hegemony Army.

His father had even offered to pull a few ancient strings if he wanted, which Gorik promptly rejected. Saying he wanted to rise on his own merits, instead of riding on his family's coattails. It was that reason why the latest heir to a long-time legacy was working as a lowly private taking inventory at one of the Hegemony many, newly built, military bases. Or least, he was trying to. "Blast it all, I know I'm the FNG, but why am I the one cleaning up this mess?" The mess in question was the disorganized way that the bases ammunition had been stored.

Considering that almost all of the ammunition in question was just solid blocks of metal, there wasn't much of a hazard. But if you wanted to find a specific type of block for a specific weapon, it was an adventure and a half trying to find it. Even as he went about the task of organizing the disaster that was the ammunition stores, Garik couldn't help but constantly glance at the rest of the military base.

The solid metal walls were thick and featureless, security cameras were everywhere, most of them installed after martial law was declared), guards seemed to be posted at every corner, and most of the equipment seemed relatively new and well maintained. This was a far cry from the rather laid back atmosphere that had existed at the base until recently. The new spirit of efficiency and professionalism coming about as a result of martial law.

Of course the fact that the High Admiral himself was coming to the base for an inspection was making everybody try to look their best too. "And of course the big heads can't afford to look incompetent, so they sacrifice me for their egos…" Garik muttered under his breath.

"Yes, that always does appear to be the case, doesn't it? Throwing away lives for the sake of one's ego." A voice suddenly said from behind him.

"Thank the Lords, someone agrees with me." Garik said as he turned, only to nearly soil himself as he saw just WHO had spoken to him. "Supreme Chancellor, sir!" Immediately he snapped off a crisp salute, holding in place even as Korra chuckled at the reaction.

"At ease," Korra looked for the ranking insignia on Garik's uniform. "Private Garik." Garik moved to parade rest, and despite his somewhat calm exterior, inside he was ecstatic. Never did he believe that for a moment, he would see the batarian in person, let alone speak to him personally. In the young soldier's mind, Korra was the one would bring the Batarian Hegemony back to its former glory and more than likely, far beyond it. "What were you griping about with so much vitriol?"

"Uh, the ammo stores, sir. Specifically how they were arranged." Garik supplied. "I don't know who was in charge of it before I was sir, but whoever they are, were either utterly incompetent or trying to sabotage us. I was reorganizing it when you came along, sir."

"Hmmm...I will look into that." Korra said thoughtfully. While most people in his position would consider something like the ammunition stores beneath their notice, Korra thought that incompetence and slothism in the armed forces could not be tolerated and should be rooted out whenever possible.

"Continue the good work soldier. With men like you, our victory over the traitorous rebels is inevitable." Datak told Garik Vekn as he put a reassuring hand on the young private's soldier.

"Yes sir!" Garik said enthusiastically, overjoyed that the leader of the Hegemony actually cared about his problems.

But to a large extent it didn't matter whether or not Datak Korra was sincere. Because there were many batarians just like Garik Vekn. All invested in the system, loyal to the Hegemony, and willing to fight for both. Such people would gladly fight and destroy the Rebellion for Korra, and he intended to see that he did just that.

**APUFMKII**

On the other side of the tarnished coin though, it seemed as though the end days had come for the Rebels. In the eyes of many, their vaunted leader and her human allies had abandoned them. Betrayed them. Fleeing the fight just when they needed her most.

The jubilation and excitement gained from dealing such a heavy blow against the Hegemony the previous month had long since turned to dust and ash. Because the government's counter attack had been harsher than any of them imagined.

The government had always treated slaves and the low castes with extreme callousness and brutality, but the Hegemony had at least treated its middle class with a degree of restraint and moderation. But in the wake of Datak Korra declaring martial law such restraint was only a memory.

Now anyone suspected of sympathizing with the rebels was imprisoned or killed. Leaving the rebels dangerously short of potential recruits and allies. Because they those who might, secretly, sympathize with them were afraid of coming under suspicion. And this time, no one was off-limits from the Hegemony's iron grip and sweeping policies. The rich and powerful were seen with the same scrutiny as the average citizen. If any who were part of the former were suspected of aiding the Rebellion, their families would soon find themselves under investigation. If even one of the family was found to be guilty, they all quickly found themselves stripped of their titles and their wealth, then thrown together with others who had been condemned as Rebel allies.

Needless to say, in the wake of the first families to find themselves subjected to such punishment, many others had quickly sought out and purged any sympathizers within their own families before the Hegemony could do it for them. To the surprise of many, Rebel and Hegemony alike, there had been many rebel sympathizers within the highest tiers Hegemony society. Hundreds, almost a thousand batarians were discovered by their families to have surreptitiously aided the Rebellion in one form or another. These were primarily the youngest children of rich men, who were unlikely to see much of their parent's wealth, officials unlikely to rise any higher in the Hegemony hierarchy due to nepotism or their own incompetence, and other members of the elite who felt cheated by the status quo. Seeing the Rebellion as their best chance to destroy the system that they had come to hate. In the wake of the crackdown many of these elite sympathizers had been killed or captured, but a large number had managed to escape. Escape to where though, was unknown, as they had been seen since they left their homes and families.

Of course, none of this helped or comforted the Rebels still alive and kicking in the Hegemony, especially not those on Khar'shan. Those on the Capital world had been hit the hardest of the entire Rebellion across the numerous planets under Hegemony control. Even after the pyrrhic victory, with the death of the President and the Senate, the Khar'Shan Rebellion was the largest. Now it had been systemically reduced to less than a shadow of its former self.

One of the few rebels cells that had been able to survive against the odds was known simply as The Rabbit. The Rabbit had the distinction of being the only rebel cell to save a Spartan by wiping out a squad of asari commandos. They had staged numerous raids against Hegemony soldiers, and later turian troops, since then. Becoming perhaps the best known and most successful rebel cell on Kar'Shan, that didn't include a Spartan. Infamous for their fast hit and run tactics, emulating the Spartan that they had saved, Kelly-087, who they adopted as a sort of unofficial mascot.

However that very success had made them a priority target. Now over a hundred batarian soldiers and turian troops were searching through the rundown Nirvana neighborhood where Rabbit resided. Unfortunately there was also an elite squad of asari commandos looking for Rabbit too.

The regular troops simply couldn't catch up with the Rabbit cell, as all of its members were effectively built for speed. Recruiting only people with could fight well on the run and only using weapons that they could easily carry. Moreover, many of them had grown up in Nirvana, and knew the slums better than the back of their hand. Exploiting every nook and cranny they could as they tried to escape Nirvana before the enemy army could corner them.

But the asari commandos were different. Their skillful use of biotics made the commandos fast and agile, and all of them had literally centuries of combat experience, especially their leader Eda Freja. A veteran commando of several centuries, she had been one of the few to fight against the humans and actually emerge victorious in every one of the few encounters she had. Granted that had just been two engagements during the short UNSC/Citadel war, considering that virtually every Council soldier that fought against the enemies was defeated, it was a boast that few could make. On top of that, she was among the strongest biotics in the Asari Commando Corps, being able to use some abilities thought reserved for Matriarchs, though very few were suitable for combat.

"One down." Eda Freja coolly informed her squad as she shot a member of Rabbit through the back of the knees as they chased the rabbits over the rooftops of the Nirvana neighborhood. The rebel falling to the ground with a scream.

Eda had been hoping that the other rebels would stop to help their fallen comrade. But they knew that they if tried to help their fellow rebel they would just die too. In fact, the crippled rebel shot himself in the head before any of the commandos could reach the former slave, in order to avoid capture and interrogation. Several of the Commandos suddenly found a new, if grudging, respect for these Rebels. Not many would kill themselves so easily to avoid capture and interrogation.

Three of the Commandos blasted forward at the Rebels in a flash, using their Biotic charges. The three aiming to snag a Rebel mid-jump and take them down, not allowing them a chance to kill themselves. Two of the Rebels dove sideways, straight into the streets far below. A wet SMACK sounding only seconds later. The third commando was luckier, successfully capturing her quarry. Shocked at how the rabbit grinned at her, instincts developed over centuries making her push the batarian male away moments before the grenade he had pushed down his shirt exploded, only a quickly raised biotic barrier saving the commando in question from dying too.

'Fucking fanatics' Eda thought as watched another rebel kill himself. She wanted to catch as many members of the Rabbit cell alive for interrogation. Since Rabbit was known to associate directly with Spartans she was hoping that the info she could squeeze out of them would lead her directly to the rebel leadership, or at least to whatever Spartans were on Kar'Shan.

But the rabbits seemed to be thinking along similar lines. Knowing that they couldn't defeat the commandos and their allies cell was simply trying to escape. Even if the only way that they could escape capture was through death. Eda took a quick count of just how many of the once large cell were left and still running. "Seven...seven little vermin running for their lives. Run, children, run…" She whispered as she grabbed her gun and gave chase.

Two of the rebels suddenly stopped running away and took the offensive. Charging towards the asari commandos as they threw flashbang grenades at the the commandos. Hoping to blind the asari elite long enough to finish them off with more explosives or at least distract and occupy the commandos long enough for their comrades to escape.

"Pathetic." Freja said as she biotically threw the grenades back at the rebels just before they detonated. Blinding light and piercing noise assaulted the eyes and ears of the Rebels, stunning them and make them stumble from the pain. One of the blinded rebels stepped off the roof moments later. Killing himself either by accident or design, Eda wasn't sure, but either way, it was another potential prisoner lost.

The other one appeared to have some sort of heart attack. The apparently fit batarian female clutching her chest as she groaned and fell to the ground. Shuddering for a moment and then going still.

"Unbelievable" Eda muttered, feeling cheated that the rebel had apparently just died of shock. "Did they actually plan dying like this?" Still, to the Rebel's credit, the distraction did work. The five remaining survivors of the Rabbit cell were nowhere to be seen.

Which might have been enough to save them if the rabbits were JUST going up these particular commandos and the equipment they had on them. But Eda Freja always used every advantage that she could. The commandos ship was directly above them in orbit with its cameras pointed straight down, and a few quick commands on Freja's omnitool brought up footage from the ship showing just where the rebels had gone.

"They went in there" Eda told her squad as she pointed at the structure in question. Not wasting a moment, the commandos were rushing into the building. Quickly going from room to room, only to find the exhausted rebels hiding within the third door they broke down, a forgotten apartment. The survivors thinking that they had a moment to catch their breath.

Even exhausted, the survivors proved why they were among the best of their peers. Their weapons snapping up and into position despite their exhaustion, creating a funnel of death as they opened fire on the commandos. Every shot that made contact was stopped cold by powerful biotic barriers, but it had the desired effect of forcing the commandos away from the door.

But they were not about to allow five suicidal Rebels stop them from getting their hands on a living Spartan. Copying the Rabbits' own earlier tactics, the commandos threw flashbang grenades, but this time there was no one that could throw the grenades back. The tremendous flash of light and sound blinded and deafened all the rebels. Leaving them vulnerable and cornered before the commandos.

Not allowing the Rebels a chance to recover, the commandos rushed in. Some using biotics to knock down the Rebels and pull the weapons from their hands, others tackling them and pinning them to the ground. One even using an Overload from their Omnitool as a taser on one of the Rebels. In less than five seconds, the five survivors had all been disarmed, pinned or otherwise captured.

"You may have defeated us but you can't keep the Hegemony alive forever bitch!" the apparent leader swore as restraints were placed on his wrists. Staring blearily at Eda Freja as she restrained him.

"You're probably right four-eyes" Eda said with casual racism as she glowered down at the relatively short batarian male.

"But I'm not here for the Hegemony I am here for the apes from Earth who have been killing my sisters and you're going to tell me all you know about them" the asari commando continued with a sneer.

The batarian spat at the commando, a mess of snot and spit splattering against the Commando's leg. "Go ahead and try, whore. We'll all die before we betray our Lady." Referring to the Spartan they had modelled themselves after. "Death, is infinitely preferable to betrayal."

"I think its cute that you seem to believe that you have a choice" Eda mocked the man as two of her commandos held him still. Placing her hands on either side of his face as she murmured "Embrace Eternity."

Most non-asari viewed their Melding ability as a kind of mind-sex, and considering that that was how the asari reproduced there was a great deal of truth to that stereotype. But Melding could be used for more than breeding, pleasure, and intimacy. It was a true joining of two minds, and exceptionally powerful, ruthless, and skilled asari could use to it plunder the secrets from the unwilling. As far as the asari knew, only another asari of greater will than the aggressor could resist it.

It was also highly taboo in Asari culture. Such a use of Melding was the ultimate violation of one's sanctity and privacy. To use it was to make oneself a pariah in the eyes of most asari. If one was caught doing so in the Asari Republics, it was an automatic death sentence.

But there are always exceptions.

Eda Freja and her squad often operated outside asari space, and quite frequently went on priority missions with and/or for Spectres and other VIPs. As long as Eda and her squad continued to get results nobody really questioned their methods.

The cell leader tried to resist, but though his will was strong, he had absolutely no experience in this kind of mental combat. Leaving him all too vulnerable to an asari just entering her matriarch phase. Simultaneously screaming and crying as Eda tore through his mind looking for everything that he knew about Spartans. Uncaring of the fact that she was doing him permanent neurological damage in the process. Crying out as what felt like invisible claws ripped at things that were never meant to be touched.

Less than a minute after she started Eda let go of the shuddering husk of what had once been a proud batarian male. Looking down at the rabbit with contempt. Then turning to her 'girls' as she grinned and announced "I have our next lead."

**APUFMKII**

Spartan John-117. The man had as many titles as he had medals. The Master Chief. Captain-Commander. Spartan-King. Demon. Monster. Dog of ONI. Protector of Humanity. He and the rest of the Spartans were made for. He still recalled the first time his 'Mother', Doctor Catherine Elizabeth Halsey had addressed him and the other Spartans. "You have been called upon to serve, you will be trained... and you will become the best we can make of you. You will be the protectors of Earth and all her colonies..."

And they were. First fighting against what would be come to be called 'The First Insurrection'. Fighting humanity's enemies from within to protect the society and civilization that they had worked so hard to create. A society that had spanned dozens, if not a hundred worlds. Then, the Great War; humanity fighting for its very right to exist as a species. More than a decade of endless war, battle after battle, loss after loss. John and his Spartans doing all they can to buy humanity time to survive.

Yet, in all that time, there was one enemy that John never imagined that he would be fighting. One that was inevitable and unbeatable as time itself: the Bureaucracy. The leader of the Spartans was in his office, another new addition to his life since his promotion to Captain-Commander of the Spartans. And with that new position and rank, came all the responsibilities given to those who command.

And as the field commander of Operation Spartacus, it meant that, now that he was back at Reach, he was being given all the reports that ONI either received or gathered themselves regarding the Hegemony, more specifically, the Rebellion. And the news was anything but good.

High Admiral, or Supreme Chancellor as he was now calling himself, Datak Korra was now the virtual dictator of the Batarian Hegemony. Aggressively using his newfound authority to not merely hunt down the rebels, but to also deny them any allies or resources. By closing the borders of the Hegemony, imprisoning or killing any suspected rebel sympathizers, purge the Hegemony of corruption, and receiving an ever larger amount of Council aid in order to help do any of these things.

This was making it harder and harder get any intel from members of the Rebellion. Nevertheless what they they were getting showed that the situation was worsening, especially on Kar'Shan itself. Somewhere between 50 to 70 percent of the rebels on the batarian homeworld had been wiped out, and the rebellion no longer had any foothold in Overseer City. In short, if Jella and Cara didn't return soon, the Rebellion would die.

And that was only matters off-world. There were as many domestic issues revolving around the Spartans as well. First and Foremost was Sigma company, Gray Team's company. With the loss of the three Spartans, the infiltration and operator company was leaderless. Like all the other Companies, the Spartan-IIs in charge were connected to their subordinates. John would now need to search through Gray Team's notes to see if they had any potential successors among the company. Until then, Fred-108 had taken command of Sigma.

Like Sigma, the loss of four Spartan-IIs had hit the remaining S-IIs hard. Their numbers had always been small even before their augmentations, half of which 'washed out' from it. Their bodies not taking the augmentations well. The Insurrection, the Great War and Heretic Wars only whittling down their numbers bit by bit. None of them expected this: two of their siblings were dead after a single battle, with another two missing and one of those presumed dead.

Now, after reading every the reports on the Rebellion, John knew that even more of his Spartans were going to be needed, and by extension, some of them were going to die. Of course plenty of Spartans had died fighting the Covenant, but this was different.

Now the Spartans were not fighting to defend humanity itself, as they had been in the war against the Covenant, or even just to preserve human unity, as they had been during the First and Second Insurrection. Instead they were fighting to manipulate alien politics and advance the UNSC's geo-political position. When John thought of it that ONI, he had to wonder if he was still ONI's dog, although the term 'bitch' might be more appropriate.

As he contemplated the justification for the Operation, Hood's question came to mind; "Is it worth it?" He wasn't lying entirely when he told the Admiral that he wasn't sure. But as the prices his Spartans paid came to mind, two of which were still undergoing both mental and physical therapy for their injuries, that feeling had started to change. Why had he even agreed to this? He could have just sent the ODSTs instead of his Spartans probably, or least supplemented his numbers. But then, how of those lives would have been lost? More importantly, now that the Hegemony was no longer holding back, at all, just how much more will his Spartans have to sacrifice for the Rebellion?

As though the universe were answering his question, the door to his office. His eyes didn't leave his paperwork as he heard, "John, you okay?" Looking up, he found himself looking at his 'sister', Kelly-087. Since her return to Reach, she had been pulled off of field duty, instead taking up John's duties while he was away. Physically she was all but recovered, but the attack on her nervous system had left her with permanent random nerve spasms. Considering the nature of the MJOLNIR armor converting thought to action, this was potentially fatal.

"I'm fine, Kelly." He tried to hide his unease, but all of the Spartan-IIs had grown up with one another. Kelly could easily sense his unhappiness. Although Spartans were often seen as cold-blooded if not outright robotic by outsiders, this was to a certain extent a facade, and amongst those they considered comrades there were strong ties of brotherhood, compelling her to say, "No you're not. Now are you going to tell me what's wrong or continue brooding?

John sighed, admonishing himself for forgetting that this was Kelly he was talking too. Even amongst his 'siblings' she was more intune with other people's emotions. Instead of answering verbally, he just tossed a datapad with ONI's latest report at her. Kelly deftly caught the datapad and started reading without any sort of preamble. "This what you're worried about?" She asked with surprise, more than a small of amount of disappointment. "John, you expected this to happen at some point. You told me that when we first linked-up on Khar'Shan."

John didn't pick his eyes off of the fresh datapad that he was reading. "I expected for them step up, and for some of us to die, yes. But not like this. Not so many of us, and so quickly."

"Then you were being naive John. We certainly never held back when fighting against the Insurrection" Kelly pointed out.

"Yet, this Hegemony has killed Gray Team." John countered. "Three Spartans who spent the better part of the Great War behind enemy lines. Without any support beyond what they could muster up themselves, or any means to return to friendly lines. And this was before the Hegemony's escalation." Before Kelly could refute the point, he added, "I know that we can win this...Rebellion," He refused to call it an Insurrection, in light of why he was made, "but what am I going to have ask, no, order of my Spartans to attain it?"

"Nothing they wouldn't do willing John." Kelly answered with absolute conviction. "We were remade to fight for humanity and its too not for any of us to try to be something else now."

"But Operation Spartacus isn't about fighting to defend humanity its about influencing alien politics." John argued. "We are creating an Insurrection."

"So what? If Spartacus succeeds humanity will be strong and safer and that's good enough for me" Kelly replied. "If you're worried about losing people, John, you need to consider this: we either die fighting on their world, ending their regime. Or on our soils when they go to war with the UNSC." As though knowing what John was about to ask, she continued, "We're all willing to sacrifice whatever it takes John, to win this. You want to know why that is?"

"And why is that?"

"Because you're John-117. Blue Leader. Captain-Commander of the Spartans." She reminded him. "You kept us all alive through the wars. We trust you to see this through. And…" She rubbed the back of her neck, where it met her skull, the source of her spasms. "We trust you not waste our sacrifices."

John was touched by the trust she was showing in him. The gesture lifting him out of his depression and helping him focus on the mission at hand. Prompting him to ask, "Then how do you think that we should respond to this?"

"Hard, and heavy." She answered, traces of anger and a desire for revenge lacing her words. "You created a Rebellion, John, but they made this into a war. I think it's time we fought like it." Taking the datapad John had given her, she tapped it several times. "We've got a few new classes of Spartan-IVs graduating now, with MJOLNIR. Why not use them?"

The Spartan-Commander considered the idea. The fact of the matter was that they needed some sort of game-changer to keep the Rebellion alive. The Spartan IVs might give them the edge they needed.

"Yes that could work" John said thoughtfully. "Are there any that you would suggest?" While the S-IIs were hesitant regarding the S-IVs and their combat skills, considering they were cross-trained, instead of brought up from childhood like their predecessors, they were more than willing to trust them. If, seeing them as still 'green'. If Kelly suggested them, that meant she thought that there some more than ready for a real battlefield.

"Some." She finally handed back the datapad. "Quite a few of the new graduates actually. And there's one fireteam in particular. I think you should take a look at their squad classification."

Taking the offered datapad, he scrolled down the squad names, searching for the one Kelly had marked out. When he found it, he nodded in appreciation. Only for his eyes to widen when he read their classification. "Is this right?" He all but demanded, Kelly giving an affirmative nod. "Are they on station?" Another nod. "Show me." Kelly just gave a smile and waved for her 'brother' to follow.

As the doors shut behind John, the datapad was still active. Open to the Fireteam Kelly had marked. At the top, their name: 'Fireteam Crimson'. Directly beneath it, four names were listed, with their skills, ranks and achievements listed beneath them. At the bottom of the page, in great big bold letters read: "Suggested reclassification from fireteam to 'Hyper-Lethal Vector'."

**APUFMKII**

Datak Korra was unquestionably the most powerful batarian alive. But Jella Korragan was arguably even more influential. Thanks to the part she had played in starting the Batarian Civil War. However, this pivotal figure was currently nowhere near batarian space. During the Great War, a mobile battlefield hospital was made from two repair and refit platforms, the UNSC Hopeful. In the time since, several more were made in its image, of varying sizes.

The smallest of which, and incidentally where Jella was currently recovering, was the UNSC Caregiver. Only as large as frigate, it was currently parked over Reach, serving its purpose and a new temporary role: a high security hospital. Keeping its occupants locked up tight while providing them the finest medical attention the UNSC could afford. An oxymoron if there ever was one.

Although she had not been wounded, Cara T'Val was also there. Even though she was critically injured, the strong willed Jella had still managed to coerce the ONI agents, who had smuggled her and John Doe out of batarian space, into taking her asari lover too. When Cara had refused to leave out the orphans she had informally adopted, the ONI agents had brought them along too just to end the argument. Rationalizing that Jella was more likely to recover with her friends and family around to provide morale support, unwilling to admit to themselves or their superiors that they had given in just because an alien female too weak to stand wouldn't stop yelling at them.

Of course, that did not mean the UNSC was going to bend over and give them everything they asked for. ONI had requisitioned the UNSC Caregiver so that while Jella was getting the best care possible, they would not risk any UNSC secrets or knowledge, whatever it be may be, leaving with aliens.

That did not mean however, they had free-run through the ship. Guards were posted through what were considered 'sensitive' areas of the ship to prevent Cara, Jella or the kids from accessing them. For them, this meant anywhere outside of the cafeteria, lavatories, hallways and their rooms. The xenophobia that humanity felt was still strong, and in the case of their 'guests', it meant paranoia in their handling.

Jella recalled what John had told her of Humanity's xenophobia because of the Great War, and Cara knew of it from the short-lived UNSC/Council war. And for the most part, it proved to be true. Unless it was necessary, the humans aboard gave Jella and Cara a wide berth. Keeping them at more than arm's length. Ironically enough, it was not as bad as Jella or Cara had expected it to be. She had expected outright hostility at the very least, and at worst, someone actually trying to kill her simply because she wasn't human.

While ONI was temporarily in charge of the ship, they were not the ones who were crewing the vessel, not entirely. The guards and crew were a mix of ONI, the normal crew, and Spartans. And among those people, there were some that were not like their peers. The asari orphan in particular seemed to garner a lot of sympathy from the female crew.

Little Agata Fulvia had been born into slavery, and was shy, quiet, and meek. Although her last owners had treated her more like a daughter than a slave, buying her to serve as a playmate, friend, and companion to their own young child, she had learned prior to that that those with authority could use and abuse you however they liked. As a result, she was pitifully grateful for any kindness shown to her by the obviously powerful humans.

The batarian child, Ilona Alfwin, was a different matter though. Her four eyes alone made it quite apparent that she was not human, unlike her adopted sister Agata, who except for her blue skin could pass for a human, at a distance. Making the humans aboard The Caregiver naturally less sympathetic towards Alfwin.

Moreover, Ilona was a child of privilege. Before her parents had died, Alfwin was the one that adults had doted on and spoiled. Now the roles were reversed, and to a child already traumatized by watching her mother murdered before her eyes it was a very unpleasant surprise.

Of course that didn't mean that Ilona wanted everything that Agata got. When Cara, Ilona, and Agata came aboard The Caregiver they had all been subjected to medical exams. Supposedly to make sure that they were in good health and prevent them from bringing any dangerous diseases on board. But whereas Ilona's examine had been relatively short and straightforward, the two asari had been subjected to an intense battery of tests.

Blood tests, skin or rather scale samples. Spending hours in what the humans called MRI machine. The MRI was rather pleasant but the humans began to worry when the entire machine began to levitate. The EKG tickled a bit and the lie detector began to smoke. At a certain point, ONI had decided that the more...invasive examinations were no longer feasible. In the interest of cost-to-benefit ratios. Aside from those, they constantly had Cara both explaining and demonstrating her biotic abilities. While Cara did not mind answering the questions to a certain point, the constant use of her biotics was exhausting for her, among asari, she was considered to be weaker than average.

Still, she considered it to be more than a fair price for all the medical attention that Jella was receiving.

It was only when they started prying at Agata to show off her biotics, that Cara actually put her foot down. And by put her foot down, lifted everything within a ten-meter radius that was not bolted to the floor and stuck them, doctors and guards included, to the ceiling. The ONI doctors had quickly submitted after that and ended most of their tests. Something Cara was grateful for as her little display of biotic power only lasted for a moment.

The only things they had done afterwards was simply peppering her with questions. Until they approached the topic of Melding. Cara was more than willing, if a bit embarrassed, to share everything she knew about the Melding. When they asked her if she could demonstrate it on someone, she only demanded two things. The first was that she had the finally say in who she melded with. The second, was they did NOT even dare to approach Agata about the subject. Melding was considered to be an intimate act, even when used for other purposes as it was literally a sharing of the minds. In Cara's mind, anyone asking an asari child to Meld with them was little more than a pedophile.

This left the scientists in a bit of a bind. Because while they DID want to observe asari Melding in action, they did not want any human on The Caregiver subjected to it, since ONI, and for that matter the UNSC, did not want the asari learning any more of their secrets. They had hoped that they could observe Cara Melding with the children, but as she explained loudly and in great detail, from her POV merely suggesting it was both perverted and disgusting.

Since then, the ONI scientists had largely left Cara and the kids alone. Having been told by their superiors to stop upsetting T'Val. Now Cara was watching a hardened and battle scarred female ODST smile indulgently as she gave candy Agata, who happily munched it down. The only problem with the scene, as far as Cara was concerned, was that the woman seemed to be completely ignoring Ilona. And she wasn't the first, and Cara doubted would be the last. Yes, a few were showing both the children the same treatment, but there was a clear favoritism being shown by the humans willing to treat with them.

What Cara did not notice however, was the rift that had appeared and now was slowly growing with each passing day that she and her lover were here. A rift between those who were willing to show a public kindness to the non-humans, and those who were not. It did not matter if they were one of the elite ODSTs, an engineer or even a Spartan-IV. While nothing overt had occurred, those who showed kindness were slowly ostracized by their peers. Their disapproval apparent. This leading to most willing to show such kindness to do more covertly.

"I think Ilona would like some candy too." Cara told the female soldier.

"Sorry but I'm all out." The ODST replied. Seeing the skeptical look, she added, "Look, it was hard enough getting just that one out of the mess hall alright. This is a military hospital ship, so it isn't like there are vending machines onboard."

"Ilona why don't you go play that video game they gave us that you like? the one where you can be a Sith Knight fighting the evil Jedi Lords" said Cara, who hadn't really paid much attention to the game, but knew that the batarian child seemed to like enjoy it. Happily smiling at Cara, Ilona ran off, her sister running off after her.

Once they were out of sight, Cara told the female marine "I know batarians are ugly by human standards but that's no reason to ignore and be mean to her. Ilona's just a child she can't help the way goddess made her."

"And I was joking about the candy bar." The ODST shot back. "I don't know if you've noticed, but people don't really like aliens here. The fact that you and your kid at least LOOK like US helps. But don't expect me to be lovy-dovy to the four eyes."

"Its the least you can do considering the fact that you're pushing people like Jella to fight the Hegemony for you! Do you have ANY IDEA what they batarian government does to rebels they catch!" Cara shot back.

"Look, I know that you think you lived a shitty life." The ODST started, pulling out a knife, one as long as Cara's hand, and started juggling it. "But you don't get to bitch about what we do here. We could have just said 'fuck it' and nuked the 'Hergemon' until they decided to surrender. You should be grateful that we're even doing this." She pulled a second knife and started juggling them both with practiced ease.

Before the batarian slavers captured her Cara probably would have been too intimidated in a situation like this to continue speaking. But what she had gone through since then had forced her to mature and harden a great deal. So simply said "humanity isn't all powerful and even if it was that's no reason to be mean to a child."

Then she walked away as quickly as she could while still maintaining some dignity. Unnerved by the way that the ODST looked at her and smiled while handling her knives. Deciding that there was nothing better to do, she decided to head back to Jella's room. Perhaps she could talk with her about this issue with the humans.

As the door opened, a smile on her face, called out, "Hey love, how-" She cut herself off as she realized that her loved was not alone in her room. "Hello, John…" The Spartan, out of armor and uniform gave her a curt nod. The metal eye-patch standing out even more than usual as it was now embedded into his very skin, grey metal in the place of a pupil, with circuit-like patterns around the eye. "What's going on?"

Jella gave a look of concern at John, who simply nodded. "We'll continue this discussion later then. Inform a Spartan when you are ready, but we will be heading out soon." Giving Cara another nod, the Spartan showed himself out, leaving in his wake an uneasy silence.

For a moment, there was nothing as the two lovers just gazed at each other. Neither offering any words until Cara decided to break the silence. "What's going on? Why was he here?"

Jella didn't say anything, only sighing as she looked at her blankets. "It's, John just told me that we need to return to the Hegemony soon, if we want there to be a Rebellion left when we get there."

"When do we need to leave?" Cara asked, hoping that they could leave Ilona and Agata somewhere safe before heading into danger again.

"I am going to be leaving as soon my injuries are all healed, or even before then." Jella said, emphasizing the pronoun. "YOU are going to be staying here with the children. John's promised me your safety and protection until it's all over."

"Are you...breaking up with me?" Cara asked in shock.

"No, no no!" Jella frantically waved her hands in denial. "Nothing like that at all, Cara. It's just...John has told me what's going on in the Hegemony right now. Korra has established Martial law, and the last time we fought the Hegemony… He told me that the entire Hegemony is going to become a warzone soon. And I don't want you or the kids in the middle of that." This only part of the truth. The other part of it was that with Cara there, Jella would finally be able to cut loose again. She had been moderating herself since she rescued her lover, if only for her sake and her innocence.

Cara felt conflicted. She did not want to be separated from her lover. Especially since she knew, via their Melding, that she was the only one Jella considered a true friend. But the children that she was increasingly coming to think of as HER kids needed Cara too.

Besides Cara didn't really enjoy fighting and killing. It would be nice to continue resting and recovering somewhere safe. But then she remembered her recent conversation with female marine.

"We can't send the kids back into a warzone BUT will we really be safe here? these people don't like non-humans" Cara said slowly.

For once, Jella actually smiled. "John promised me that his Spartans will be the ones watching you and the kids. While they might not like us, they'll be professional with us at least. And I trust him." Cara was surprised by what her lover said. Jella, as a whole, never really trusted anyone. While she did put an effective facade that convinced people that she did trust them, when it came down to it, no one really knew the Rebellion leader. Not her past, her preferences or even her birthday. For her to say that she trusted someone spoke volumes.

"But will YOU be okay Jella?" Cara asked, knowing how alone the rebel leader would be without her asari lover by her side.

"I'm not going back alone, and neither is John. He said that the UNSC is taking this seriously now. And he's left behind an insurance policy as well, just in case." She pointed out a large crate in the corner of the room that Cara hadn't noticed early. Probably because her attention was focused on John and then her lover. Walking over towards it, the asari reached down and opened up the crate. With a hiss of pressured air, she pulled up the lid revealing an ODST Battle Dress Uniform(BDU). A full-suit of armor. While Cara was nearly gaping at the pristine suit of armor, Jella explained, "John said that was the top of the line armor back when they fought the Covenant. Said that it should protect me from most anything a Hegemony soldier can carry. And there's something else as well. Grab me one of those gray bands. They're at the left."

Searching for said band, she found them. Three of them to be exact. Picking up one of them, Cara brought it over to her lover. "What is this?"

"There should be two buttons on it, press the larger one."

Cara hesitantly fumbled with the device for a moment. Figuring out that she was supposed to put it on her forearm. Touching the large button a moment later, exclaiming in surprise as it what looked like a giant purple plate suddenly appeared on her arm. Covering her like the sort of primitive shield her ancestors had used before the asari had developed firearms.

"It's a Kig-Yar point-defense gauntlet." Jella explained, a massive grin just plastered on her face. "That's what John said it was called. Apparently it's Covenant technology. Stronger than even their full-body shields but completely inflexible. Bullets just bounce off it, unless its a heavy caliber weapon. And even then, they don't penetrate. Only thing that can shut it off, without hitting the smaller button, is a plasma weapon or the user dying."

"At least you will have some decent protection this time" Cara said. Feeling an odd impulse to touch the energy barrier. But wisely ignoring it as she shut the device off.

"I'm still worried about being the only non-humans in the System though...what if they decide to use us for sick experiments or try to just push us out an airlock because they think that they don't need us anymore?" Cara asked, remembering how the ONI scientists had badgered poor little Agata almost to the point of tears, and then suggested that Cara Meld with the the little girl while they watched.

"Even if they do, the Spartans won't." Jella tried to comfort. "John promised me that, no matter their personal feelings, they will follow his orders. They might be rude, but they won't try to murder you in your sleep." Despite the conviction in her words, and her faith in John, there still was a sliver of doubt when it came to how Cara and the kids would be treated once she left. "If you want him to make the promise to you as well, I'll ask him."

"That would make me feel better" Cara admitted. Adding a moment later "but I also want to know how you are...I realize contacting me when you're in the Hegemony would probably be impossible or put you in danger but I at least want to know as much as these armchair generals do."

Cara had nothing but contempt for the Hegemony. However she didn't have much respect for ONI either. Recognizing that the covert ops group was using others, such as her and Jella, to fight and die against potential enemies/rivals like the Hegemony so that humans wouldn't have to.

"Again, I'll have to talk to John about. He has a lot of pull around here, from what I've seen. Even baldy stopped and saluted him when he was here." Referring to one of the guards who had gone out of his way to try and make Jella and Cara's life hell, only to be stopped because of Jella's Spartan guards.

Cara felt a small spark of jealousy at how Jella kept praising John. The Spartan had never shown the slightest sign of interest in romance or sex, but the asari couldn't help but remember how Jella had described John as the only male that she would ever consider inviting to her bed.

The batarian sensed what was bothering her lover. Having gotten to know Cara pretty well during their time together. Prompting her to say "Hey don't worry about John...all these humans think batarians are ugly besides...I'm pretty sure that the male Spartans all have their manhoods cut off to make room for more weapons."

Both the alien women laughed at that. Enjoying a chance to mock the human warriors that all seemed to look down on them. Cara moving to hug her lover when she stopped laughing.

Cara passionately kissed her lover and then pulled her head away to say "if you really think that we will be safe I will stay...but you need to promise me that you will come back to me alive."

"I promise." Jella replied.

**APUFMKII**

High Admiral Datak Korra wasn't the kind to casually change his mind once he had made it up. But Datak was a pragmatist first and foremost, so in response to the increasing danger his regime faced from the humans the head of the Hegemony had given Enid Arash the go ahead to begin turning batarians into super soldiers, despite the fatal flaws in her process. Now he was at the headquarters for Project Golgatha, to witness some of these super soldiers in action for the first time.

Arash had said that they were ready for field-testing, but he wanted to see them in action off the battlefield first. Rather than just throwing them into action and hoping for the best. Currently, he was watching them running around a built in track, about the length of a standard cruiser. They had only started a few minutes ago and already were half-way through their second lap. "As you can see, despite all the heavy equipment and cybernetics built into their bodies, these subjects are still faster than a non-augmented individual."

"Just how fast can they run?"

"Admittedly it varies per individual, the main factors being how healthy and how fit they already were prior to augmentation." Arash explained. "The weakest of the bunch is still capable at running at twice the speed of the average batarian soldier wearing a full-combat load. The few former-soldiers from our captives have clocked in at nearly five times the average. One of our earlier subjects was even faster, though she has since expired."

Despite his calm facade, Datak was mildly impressed. He had assumed that all the implants in their bodies would slow them down. He didn't expect to be so much faster. "This includes their reflexes?"

To his surprise, Arash shook her head, "No, I still am working on their cranial implants. The reaction time is half that of the norm, but based on what I've seen from the human super-soldiers, theirs are still faster." That got a frown from the former High Admiral, while the faster reaction time was great, if the Spartans were faster still...he didn't like it, but it was the best he could expect.

"What about their martial prowess? And their marksmanship?"

Arash gave him a feral grin in response. "Why don't you see for yourself?"

Project Golgatha's headquarters was built into a former Hegemony mining colony that the batarians had stripped of virtually all natural resources decades ago. The surface of the world was a barren wasteland but all the leftover underground tunnels gave the Arash and her people plenty of room to expand their operations. Room that they had used to build things like the arena that she took the admiral to. Giving Datak Korra his first opportunity to study the results of the Doctor's work up close. New construction to heavily reinforce and fortify the facility meant it's security was surpassed by few others facilities, such as Korra's own personal bunker.

The super soldiers were indeed massive and muscular, but they appeared far from the batarian ideal. Scars from recent surgeries crisscrossed their virtually naked bodies, and their obviously mechanical eyes glowed yellow. Most of them could not even be identified by gender, their genitals removed and some sort of metallic plate in their place. A device built directly their their backs was connected by a long tube to the back of their heads. Their bodies gently quivering as it pumped drugs straight into their brains. While their faces were oddly expressionless, making the soldiers appear as though they were asleep on their feet.

"You removed their eyes and genitalia?" Korra said mildly, but inside he was disgusted. Only a lifetime of military discipline allowing him to hold in his temper at seeing what the amoral scientist had done to loyal soldiers of the Hegemony.

"Well I need somewhere to place the piping for some of the implants. And it was not as though they were going to ever be using them again once I was done with them." Arash dismissed offhand. "It was either that or you had exposed components. And if you're worried about muscle atrophy or aggression, don't. They have small reservoirs for synthetic and more potent cocktails instead of the standard male hormones."

"This is an abomination." Korra said softly as he looked at the batarian soldiers that Arash had literally unmanned. Not sure if he was speaking to Arash, himself, or the universe at large.

"Hey, you wanted fast, you got fast." Arash reminded Korra. "I usually like my work to be more streamlined, but you asked for this."

"Is there any other way?"

Arash didn't answer right away. Instead, pulling up her omnitool, indecipherable scrawl began scrolling down the page Arash brought up. Only catching parts of sentences here and there at the speed she was scrolling. "...chemical-augmentors…" "...neural feedback failure…" "...self-immolation…", that was all he managed to read before Arash shut her tool down. "Depends, give me an unlimited budget and I'll develop something within the year. Maybe."

"We don't HAVE a year, the humans and their collaborators are already in the Hegemony." Korra point out.

"Well, then what you see is what you got." Arash waved towards the subjects. "Either I can keep making more, or this all you got while I try to make them better. I can't do both."

"Just start the demonstration." Datak said irritably.

With a smile, Enid just tapped her Omnitool again. With a shudder, one of the subjects suddenly started growling. Fluids flowing faster through the tube, their bodies tremoring. The one raised their head but still obediently stayed in place. Across from them, a krogan was rudely shoved into the arena at gunpoint, roaring at his captors before turning back to the arena itself. It's eyes searching the room until it locked onto the now active subject.

The krogan in question was not one of their elite. He was a greedy fool who had tried to cheat a slaver when the slaver had a small army backing him up, losing his freedom as a result. He was a bully, murderer, rapist, and just under a century old. Just one of many cocky youths that dove into the Terminus in the hopes of either getting rich or becoming a conqueror. But he was still a krogan, so he should be more than a match for any batarian in hand to hand combat.

With a roar, the krogan charged forward. Slamming head first into the modified batarian , who impressively remained standing. The krogan began pummeling with its fists and headbutting with all its might, yet the subject did not get angry, attempt to dodge, or even wince in pain. The physical abuse from the much larger opponent having no apparent effect on the batarian.

"What's going on? Why is he just taking the hits?" Korra asked in annoyance.

"Well I decided that, as powerful as these subjects may be, they can't be a loose cannon." Arash began to explain. "Before augmentation, we conditioned all of them to never act before they are ever given orders. Outside of certain necessities. I took pains to ensure that the condition remained firmly in place throughout and after the augmentation process."

"So until I order them to respond…" Datak said thoughtfully.

"That subject will keep taking the hits until that krogan stops from pure exhaustion."

Korra felt conflicted. While it was good to have soldiers that were completely loyal and reliable, without intelligence and initiative troops couldn't see and take opportunities on the battlefield, or react in time when the odds turned against them. So every squad of these enhanced soldiers would need to be led by batarians who could still think for themselves.

"Enough of this. Show me what your creatures can DO Arash I'm tired of watching that krogan beast assault his betters." Korra commanded.

"Subject One: Kill the krogan in front of you." As soon as the words were out of her mouth, the Subject roared. Loud enough that the Krogan took several steps back instinctively. The subject didn't let it get much further than that, running forward, and punching the krogan with enough force to shatter ribs and knock the thug off his feet.

"What the hell are you four-eyes?" the krogan grunted as his batarian nemesis stalked forward.

To his shock the batarian actually grasped him by his hump and hurled the krogan across the arena. The wounded male hitting the floor with enough force to see stars. Getting to his feet just to time to meet the freakish batarian's next attack.

Not that it did any good. The next punch was delivered with all the batarian soldier's chemically and cybernetically enhanced might. Blood and ichor flying out the krogan's hump as the fist went straight through the ribcage and out the other side. The krogan, to his credit only growled and slammed his fist against the subject's head, trying to give it a concussion but the effort was in vain. As though realizing it's target was still alive, it pulled the arm out and grabbed hold of the krogan's skullplate, it's fingers digging in beneath it.

In the blink of an eye, the krogan went from a raging warrior, to a squealing pup as he vainly tried to pry the subject's fingers off his plate. The krogan started screaming as the subject started pulling, the plate rising centimeter by centimeter. With a wet squelch the batarian pulled the plate clean off, the krogan screaming at the top of his lungs. Even Korra grimacing at the sight as now, without the plate, the brain could be seen directly underneath, the skull only surrounding its sides.

But Datak did not have to endure the sight for long, because the batarian soldier abruptly ended the fight by literally punching his vulnerable enemy in the brain. The krogan dropping with a shudder from the death blow. As soon as the krogan's body hit the ground, the subject stopped, returning to the state it was before being given its previous order.

"Impressive" Korra admitted. And he was being honest as well. It was the first time he had seen batarians successfully take on krogan without heavy weapons or considerable numbers on their side.

"Yes but these are just the first versions I'm sure that after a few more years of R&D I can do much better" Arash said with a smile.

"What are the conditions for them to respond to orders?" Korra asked, "Can any voice simply order them what to do?"

"Of course not!" Arash stepped back as though she had been slapped. "I am not an idiot. For the first several orders, a half dozen or so, they need to see the face and proper credentials of the one giving those orders. Those of proper rank can do so. Afterwards, they will respond to voice commands alone."'

"Commendable."

Arash's smile was swept aside just as quickly as it appeared. "Though, you didn't tell me which you were going to decide? Numbers, or better quality? I only have time to work on one or the other."

"Are your notes decipherable by another doctor?" Korra started, "Would it be possible for you to create a detailed walkthrough as to how to create more of these subjects? Quite simply, can you delegate another to do so?"

"Yes, but then-" Enid began, only for the Chancellor to speak over her.

"That's enough then. I expect the name of your chosen subordinate before the week is out, doctor." Glancing towards the remaining subjects, he added, "You will get the funds you requested, and continue with the development of the next generation of these subjects."

Korra knew that he needed these enhanced soldiers now but he refused to simply accept Arash's brutal methods as the status quo. Moreover, he was growing increasingly sick of the sociopathic Enid. Still, while he wanted her methods to change, he was pragmatic as well. His reports all told him that the humans super-soldiers were missing. The last sighting having been during the attack on the Presidential Palace. But he knew that this reprieve would not last, and when they returned, he would be ready for them.

**APUFMKII**

Sneaking into the Hegemony was much more difficult than sneaking out. Even before the attack on the Palace, Hegemony border security had tightened into a noose. Now, it was a stranglehold. The Hegemony had long since closed off its borders to virtually all incoming and outgoing traffic. And what ships were allowed over the borders were closely monitored to ensure that everything was above the board. The slightest hint of suspicion meant the offending ship was either pulled aside and boarded, or annihilated by a pack of cruisers. But the sheer length and breadth of the entire Hegemony, with all its Mass Relays, meant that the Hegemony's navy could not be in every place at one time. ONI though, easily circumvented this blockade through the use of a cloaked Prowler and the magic of Slipspace travel.

The Prowler in question, the UNSC Will-o-Wisp, had arrived in the Hegemony more than two weeks ago bearing a special cargo. In that time since, its crew had painstakingly monitored, tracked and recorded every single patrol route of every single fleet that came through this small sector of space. A task that its crew had only completed recently.

But the crew was efficient enough that once the two VIPs came aboard, Jella Korragan, and John-117 they had little to do. Most of the planning and other preparation for their arrival back in the Hegemony had already been done, nevertheless, John was a consummate professional, so he reviewed everything one more time with the few other Spartans accompanying him. Least, that was the crew assumed, since they were all clustered in a circle and in full armor. As for Jella herself, she a lot of time fantasizing about what she was eventually going to do to the leaders and servants of the Hegemony, and trying NOT to think about how much she wished her lover Cara was with her. Despite how much she told herself that it was for the best, for her, Cara and the kids, it didn't make that desire go away in the slightest.

'Maybe once the shooting starts, then it'll set in.' Jella thought to herself morosely.

John's thinking was focused on more practical matters. He knew that the remaining rebels and their supporters must be losing faith in the cause, thanks to all the losses and setbacks they had suffered as a result of Datak Korra's new policies. He, or rather Jella, had to prove that the rebels and their allies, namely the Office of Naval Intelligence, that the Rebellion was still strong and that the Hegemony still remained vulnerable.

Failing to do so, would mean the death of the Rebellion. You can give an army everything from weapons, to vehicles and even a navy. But if they lack the morale and will to fight, the enemy has already won half the battle. "Sir, do you really think we can pull this off?" John looked towards the Spartan who had asked the question. Carter-A259. The leader of Noble Team, a collection of Spartan-IIIs and one Spartan-II, he was a Spartan-III from the Alpha Company batch, the first of the Spartan-IIIs. John had chosen him to serve as his second on this return trip. "I've read all your reports, sir, and the situation looks grim."

"The odds may appear against us but its no worse than it was during many of our successful missions against the Covenant" John replied reassuringly.

Of course the Spartan Commander wasn't mentioning the elephant in the room. The fact that the UNSC had used its full resources to fight the Covenant. Even during their worst engagements, they still had access to a plethora of UNSC resources and a fleet aid as well. Whereas in the battle against the Hegemony the Spartans were still effectively fighting with one hand tied behind their backs. Still, John was confident that he could achieve victory.

'The Hegemony's numbers won't make a difference here.' John thought, with regard to himself and his fellow Spartans. 'No matter what happens, we'll make it work.'

But the Spartan Commander didn't have long to contemplate the issue. Because before long they arrived at their destination. The UNSC Will-o-Wisp having finally covered the distance between the edge of the Harsa system, to almost geosynchronous orbit around Khar'shan itself. None of the officers onboard came to notify him to head for the designated airlock, not that he need someone to. His HUD displaying the Prowlers progress and letting him know when they arrived. Carter following behind him as soon as his superior had stood up.

"Sir, you really think this plan is going to work?"

The plan was relatively simple: a D79H-TC 'Pelican' had been modified for stealth and attached to the underside of the Prowler. John and any non-crew members would board the Pelican and ride it down to the surface, with the Prowler leaving soon after. If all went right, they would be touching down on Khar'Shan's surface unmolested.

Least, that was half of the plan.

"I am." John replied with more than a touch of confidence as they reached the airlock. "We've used similar tactics against the Covenant before, and they have succeeded." Carter just nodded in acceptance while John opened the hatch leading into the Pelican itself.

Jella was already inside the Pelican, having gotten inside while John was still talking to his fellow Spartans. Aside from the batarian, the vehicle was loaded with enough weapons and other equipment to supply a small army. She tapped too fingers against her helmet in acknowledgment, her face hidden by the polarized visor of her gifted armor. John tapped his own helm in response. "Korragan, how's the armor?" She tapped the side of her helmet, signing that she either didn't know how to operate the radio, or it was broken. John thought that it was the former. "Get to the front and strap yourself in. I'll join you shortly." Jella just nodded and moved towards the front.

Just as John was about to move to the pilot's seat, Carter tapped him on the shoulder. "Sir, are you sure about this? I understand that she's an ally...but."

Carter was a loyal soldier, but he had been fighting aliens all his life. Moreover, like virtually all S-IIIs, he had been orphaned by the Covenant. So working with a non-human did not come easily.

"You can trust her, Carter." The tone in John's voice allowed for no argument. "She has nothing to gain, and everything to lose, if she were to betray us. She trusts us. And even if that were not the case, she knows that we are not someone she wants as an enemy."

Carter simply nodded, "Understood, sir." The issue finished for now, both Spartans moved towards the cockpit. John taking the pilot's seat, with Carter taking the Co-pilots. Jella had taken the extra crash-seat overlooking both of them. "Spooling up the engine cores, all systems nominal." Carter started going over the pre-flight checklist. "Control systems responsive. All readouts acceptable. We are good to go, sir."

"Release docking clamps." As John flipped a switch, the entire frame of the Pelican, zero-gravity taking hold as they left the Will-o-Wisp's artificial gravity. The Prowler, as soon as the Pelican detached itself, 'rose' and turned away, leaving the three behind. Taking ahold of the controls, John directed the Pelican towards Khar'Shan.

Under most any circumstance, what they were attempting would be suicide. Flying into enemy airspace was one thing, but flying through an atmosphere meant that all the stealth modifications were worthless until they were below the atmosphere. Most circumstances, unless the Hegemony had more pressing matters to attend to. Just as the Pelican started skimming atmosphere, in the space just above geosync orbit, tiny silver-discs began popping into existence. Each smaller than even the smallest fighter, and from them pods began appearing. First one, then two, a small handful, their numbers growing as more discs winked in and out of existence.

To those on Khar'Shan, they seemed like nothing more than meteors. But John, Carter, and Jella knew better. Each and every single one of those pods held a Spartan.

When the decision had been made to return to Khar'Shan, John knew that he would need reinforcements, and a lot of them. They was no way he could bring the numbers he needed in dropships, it would take too long for what he needed. And besides, why hide their return?

Although the servants of the Hegemony had no idea what they were seeing at first. The drop pods looking like meteorites as they streaked across the sky. Heading towards the surface at lightning speed. A batarian soldier looked up as one of the foreign objects headed towards his position.

The private was technically on guard duty. But it had been a boring shift and the inexperienced wannabe warrior had fallen asleep. Coming awake just as the drop-pod was about to reach him, the shrieking noise as it fell waking him Staring up to see over a ton of machine descending towards him.

But like many of the Spartans enemies, he never knew what hit him. The poor batarian splattering against the pod as it crashed into him, blood and ichor flash-vaporizing against it. Gore was splashed across the crater where the pod landed. Steam hissed from cracks as it opened, the door flying forward explosively. A hand grasping the edge as the occupant pulled itself out. "This is Spartan-B312. Touchdown confirmed, we are boots on the ground."

**APUFMKII**

" 'Demon', it was what we, the Covenant, called the Spartans during our war with the humans. A name given for their skill on the battlefield, and the dread they instilled in our less-hardened warriors. Unggoy and Kig-yar fled at their presence, legions were felled by their hands alone. Death was their cloak, their aura. Only the most foolhardy did not regard them with caution, the most arrogant did not respect them. I pity those who face the Spartans, for they will quickly learn why even the Sangheili respect their ranks."

-Rtas 'Vadum, during a private, off the record, discussion about Spartans and their being called Demons.

Author' Note:

aDarkOne here:

I got the idea that asari can use their touch telepathy to take information from an unwilling mind based on how Benezia described the way that she violently 'took' the knowledge of the Mu Relay from the mind of the Rachni Queen in ME1.

But since such abilities are almost never mentioned again at all at in the Mass Effect trilogy (although in ME2 I get the impression that Morinth or and/or other ardat-yakshi might have similar abilities). Leading me to the conclusion that the ability to forcibly take information from the minds of others, is rare and/or extremely taboo amongst the asari.

Oddly enough I think the existence of asari like Eda Freja makes the blue space elves more like us. Because if humanity had telepathy I have no doubt that some humans would abuse it in a such a fashion (If normal Melding could be considered sex, then what Eda did to the cell leader was a violent rape).

For instance, ONI is clearly interested in the possibilities offered by touch telepathy. Now I don't want to give away too many spoilers here but I will say this:

The Office of Naval Intelligence is far from squeamish and will use every advantage and edge that they can get.

Follower38:

Not much for me to say, my cowriter has summed it mostly right. I won't say anything because I feel anything I can say would be spoilers. If anyone has any issues, leave it in a review or PM me, and I will get back to you. Otherwise, please leave a review of your thoughts. Also, there has been a spike recently of plagiarized works on the internet lately. Among the writers that I talk with, there was a noticeable rise. If any of you spot anything, please alert me. Until then, to quote Frankieonpc1080p, "I'll see you all, in the next chapter."