Arcturus System. Arcturus Station. One month after victory on Shanxi.
Having been dismissed by the top brass and leaving the conference room, Arthur Drake could finally let out a sigh, and if someone were to hear him, they would notice the irate note of it. There were several reasons to that, the primary one was the fact that he was now involved with the politics, something he personally never liked, but with his status as a war hero and the man who defeated Turian Occupation Fleet, he was now involved in it. When the Second Fleet finally arrived into the Gorgon System, the resistance of the remaining Turians was broken, while Gorgon Fleet managed to cut off the remaining Turians from retreating, before the two fleets obliterated all but four ships, with those surrendering.
When he and Williams arrived on Arcturus, they were hailed as heroes, but they and the top brass understood that there was no a far more serious problem coming their way: they have just beaten the galaxy's top military, and they will want revenge. With that in mind, the Alliance began to prepare for war, using the data banks from Turian ships and bases, gathering and analyzing every bit of intel they could, in order to prepare for war. Yet, that war never came to their doors, instead they received not an armada, but diplomatic envoy from the Asari and Citadel Council, the galactic alliance, as the Ambassador Telea tried to sell it, who came to find a peaceful solution to it, which the Alliance welcomed.
In all honesty, Drake could not blame the top brass and Earth for wanting to sign a peace deal, as he understood that if all of Turian power came down on them, Humanity wouldn't last even a year against them. They were not ready for a war on such scale and peace was preferable, but what Drake couldn't fully abide by was how eager and readily top Alliance brass was listening to Telea about Citadel and all the supposed advantages that being a part of this supposed galactic community it would provide them. They were practically viewing themselves as members of this vaunted Council already, while Drake had a far less optimistic view on the situation, having studied all the data he could about politics of the Citadel and her member species, along with history and more.
Humanity had managed to make an impact, and it was a powerful one, but Drake doubted that it would win them many favors on the galactic scale, and he doubted the Humanity will be afforded the respect that the leaders of the Alliance believe they deserve. They will want to have a say in the galactic politics, and to do so would mean getting into Council, but Drake did not see the Humanity becoming a Member any time soon. It could take decades until they were even made Associate member, and those were just acknowledged species that could make business and work in the Citadel Space, as well as appeal to the Council, yet held no real power.
And that was what the Alliance wanted, real political power and clout, and Drake was concerned that in their bid to gain it, they may make a mistake, or worse yet, become a puppet, willing or not. Drake could see the benefits to being members of the galactic community, but not at the expense of the Humanity's independence. Moving out of the waiting area, he was now on the observation deck, looking out into the depth of the space, finding it to be a calming solution to his nerves and irate mood. Taking a few minutes to observe it, Arthur had decided that since he was dismissed, he could finally go and see his family, yet before he could leave the deck, he turned and saw that he was no longer alone on the deck, and without hesitation, Arthur saluted to his superior officer.
"Admiral Grissom, sir." Arthur greeted the space explorer of same caliber as Yuri Gagarin and Neil Armstrong with all the respect he deserved.
"At ease, Captain." Jon Grissom told him, stepping forth and looking out into the space. "Hard to think, that less than 10 years ago, this was an uncharted space, that final frontier, but now… Now it's shaping up to be the heart of the Alliance, one that is now going to be part of a galactic union, or whatever that Ambassador calls it."
"Galactic community, sir." Arthur told him, drawing the attention from the Rear Admiral. "Although, it is a bit of a misleading name, if I may say so."
"Because this "community" encompasses barely a third of the Galaxy, and the rest is a restless frontier of Attican Traverse or the outlaw haven of Terminus Systems?" Grissom asked of Drake, surprising him with him with it, before the aged Admiral smiled to him. "Despite your thoughts on the matter, the Alliance Navy and Parliament did study your reports and the observations in regards to warfare, politics and species, quite closely. You did a thorough job on those, Drake, and thanks to it, the Alliance will be able to prepare accordingly."
"Thank you, sir, but I only did what any other commander would've done." Drake responded, with Grissom letting out a humorless chuckle.
"Drake, do us both a favor, and cut the crap." Grissom told him. "What you did in Gorgon was not something that any of us could've prepared for. Our First Contact, starting with a war against an alien empire hundreds of years more advance than us, and you've not only survived, but fought and beat them. I've talked with other captains, and they all said, that without you, they wouldn't have known what to do and just sat in orbit of Shanxi and died. But you saved them, and through that you saved Shanxi. So you can drop the formalities, and speak your mind plainly, son."
"If you say so, sir, but if you've studied my reports, then you know that I'm not the one who you should be thanking." Arthur responded, hinting at the mysterious Miracle of Etruria, as it was called now.
"Yeah, Williams said the same thing, though the brass would like to keep it under wraps, for political reasons." Grissom told him, with Drake nodding. "Any thoughts on what exactly had happened there, outside of what you and Williams put in your reports?"
"Unless you count God's divine intervention, which I doubt would fly with the top brass." Drake responded. "I'm not particularly religious, but with Etruria… Either was something extraordinary luck on our part, or it was divine intervention."
"Huh, funny." Grissom said suddenly. "Andrew said pretty much the same thing. Shame that we will not know anything, since Etruria is now just a crater and the source of transmissions came from there. But what we do know, is that without them, we would've lost Shanxi and Gorgon System, instead of winning."
"Yeah, we would've." Drake let out a sigh. "Instead we won, but somehow it doesn't feel like a victory. Not with all the dead, and how the top brass is so quick to... avoid mentioning those, as well as all the activities those Turians partook in." Drake's cold hint was clear to Grissom, and he turned to him with a serious look on his face.
"Believe me, Captain, the Alliance hasn't forgotten, despite what the politicians may say and how the esteemed Ambassador may downplay it all." Grissom said with clear distaste. "And thanks to your efforts, Drake, we'll make sure there won't be another Gorgon and Shanxi. Our analysts had reviewed your reports, and are already working on the strategies and tactics for our Navy and Marines, and that's not to mention the treasure trove we've gotten from those Turian ships, tech and data banks. Engineering Corps are working 24/7 to reverse-engineer them, and there are already plans for a Navy-wide refit, to bring us up to galactic standard of warfare. So despite what politicians may say and do, we are getting ready for the worst."
"That's a relief to hear, but it still doesn't excuse them of the fact that they are so damn eager to play ball with the Council and Turians." Drake noted. "It's like they are blind to the fact that their eagerness to get in bed with the Council is going not going to be what they expect."
"Yeah, I agree, but we do need to play ball with them, because, like it or not, we've now been made part of this galaxy, and the Alliance will be part of it." Grissom told Drake. "The final ratification of the peace treaty will be held in the Citadel, where the Humanity will be "officially welcomed" to the galaxy. We'll sending our own delegation to there, with our most powerful ship as its taxi."
"The Everest, sir?" Drake asked of Grissom, who nodded.
"Yeah, Humanity's first dreadnaught is now going to serve as it's envoy vessel, which you will be the captain of." Grissom informed Drake, shocking him. "Well, you are bit too young to be made a Rear Admiral, yet you did win our first interstellar war, so the Admiralty decided to settle on this. You've officially been transferred to the First Fleet, and are now the captain of Alliance's flagship as of two hours ago. Decided to break the news to you myself."
"That's… With all due respect, sir, I would've been fine with my medals and remaining on the Athens." Drake told him. "But I take it wouldn't look good before the public." Grissom let out another humorless chuckle, before patting Drake on the back.
"Yes, so brace yourself for all that bullshit coming your way." Grissom told him openly with a smile. "At least there are perks to being captain of the Alliance's flagship. You and your family have already been approved for permanent quarters aboard the station, with all the benefits that come with it."
"Thank you, Admiral." Drake said with a sigh, the mention of his family also reminded him of his daughter. "My wife and I'd settle on restoring our daughter's sight, over fancy quarters here." Drake noted with a bit of bitterness, and Grissom did not begrudge him that.
"I've heard what had happed to your kids, Drake, and I can't wrap my head around it. Surviving for two months in that hell, scavenging and before all, that orbital bombardment…" Grissom shook his head. "Your son done what most couldn't have, and he's only 8, while also protecting his little sister. If that's not a miracle, I don't know what is… As for your daughter… I've pulled her medical files and sent them to a few of my friends back on Earth, and called in some favors. Wish I had good news, son, but…" Drake simply closed his eyes and let out a defeated sigh, before composing himself.
"Thank you, sir. You didn't have to do it." Arthur told him.
"No, but that's the least you and your family deserved after the hell you went through." Grissom told him, before he noticed some people coming their way, among them Asari. "Now brace yourself, Captain. Here comes the politics." Grissom warned Drake, and soon a small group of politicians and Asari envoys came to them.
"Admiral Grissom, Captain Drake, I'm glad you didn't leave far." Alliance's Secretary General Elena Dunois spoke to both men with a smile, before turning to the Asari dignitaries. "Ambassador Telea, allow me to introduce you Captain Arthur Drake, captain of SSV Everest, which will transport our delegation and you to the Citadel." Drake nodded with respect to the Ambassador, as well as her entourage.
"Captain Drake." Ambassador Telea greeted him. "I have heard quite a lot about you, Captain. Your fame within the Alliance seems to rival that of Admiral Grissom and General Williams. I understand you were the commander of the Human fleet during the unfortunate events in Gorgon System." Telea tried to tactfully speak, with Drake maintaining his composure.
"I was, though not at first." Arthur answered.
"Yes, but had it not been for his decisive actions and courage, we wouldn't have emerged victorious from that war." One of Dunois' government members stated proudly. "He is indeed the finest Captain that Humanity has to offer, and the only one worthy to captain our flagship."
"If you say so, sir." Arthur responded, before one of the Asari spoke up.
"Captain Drake, I understand that you had your family stationed on Shanxi, and that your youngest child had suffered a serious injury during it." Drake had to compose himself when he heard the other Asari speak, projecting an air of regality, which to Drake seemed to be an indication of pride. "You have our sympathy, Captain. It was a tragedy, what had happened on Shanxi, one that should never have taken place."
"On that I agree, though you'll have to forgive me, since we've not been introduced." Drake responded tactfully, with Ambassador Telea speaking up.
"This is Matriarch Benezia, my advisor and former mentor." Telea said, seemingly expecting it to be enough, before deciding to clarify. "Ah, I apologize. You probably do not know what Matriarch means…"
"No, I believe I know, and I am surprised to see a member of the Asari Republics of your status in here." Drake spoke with respect to Matriarch Benezia, who did not seem surprised, or at least did not show it. "Your presence is an honor for us, Matriarch."
"It is? How so, Captain?" Benezia asked of him diplomatically, with Drake knowing what she was up to, with Dunois and her supports also curious.
"It was my understanding, that as a sages and councilors of your species, you remain in the Asari territory, acting as spiritual leaders and scholars for your people, and only depart for reasons of exceptional importance." Drake explained, with Telea seemingly impressed with the Captain, as was Benezia. "A person of your status and accumulated knowledge and experience deserves respect, Matriarch."
"As do, Captain. It is not often members of other race are so well versed in intricacies of our culture." Benezia's hint was clear to Drake. "An arrival of a new race, especially in the manner like yours, was deemed by the Council as warranting a presence of a person of my experience, and I've agreed to take part." The meaning behind Benezia's words wasn't lost on Drake.
"I see, and your words are appreciated, Matriarch Benezia." Drake responded. "We can only make sure such… tragedy does not happen again."
"Indeed, Captain, and I can understand how you and Humanity may be apprehensive of us." Matriarch added. "Allow me to assure you, that the actions taken by General Raganis and 37th Fleet under his command were not in any form sanctioned by the Council."
"I had assumed as such, considering what he did violated every point of First Contact Policy, set in the Citadel Conventions." Drake stated, surprising Telea and Benezia. "Although in regards to utilization of WMDs, he did have open hand, considering the Alliance isn't an associate race."
"Captain, the Ambassador and I have already discussed this matter and…" Dunois decided to intervene, but Telea stopped her.
"No, Secretary General, it is quite alright, and what you are saying is true technically, but in reality it was quite outside of realm of permission for General Raganis to engage your species as he did." Telea told Drake. "The Citadel Council and it's members, including the Turian Hierarchy, were appalled by his actions, despite how justified they may have appeared to us at first. After we have been provided your "black boxes," from the exploratory ships, we have informed the Council, that Raganis' ships fired first and after your ships had attempted contact. Rest assured it is in our best interests to see this conflict resolved fully."
"I am certain that is the wish of all of us in here." Drake answered neutrally. "Though you will have to forgive me, if I find it hard to believe that even after a peace treaty is signed, those who participated and suffered from this conflict will be able to engage in cordial relations with each other, or their friends." The hint was clear to all parties.
"It is understandable, Captain, and I understand how our words may not serve as sufficient proof, the perhaps our actions can do so." Benezia spoke up. "We have heard of the nature your daughter's injury, and I wish to offer your assistance in this matter. Citadel is not only home to its Council, but also galaxy's best doctors and scientists, and we possess the means to restore her sight. If you were to bring her to the Citadel, I am certain our doctors would restore her sight." The offer was quite tempting, but Drake was not as keen to take it as some others were.
"A most generous offer, Matriarch, and I am sure the Captain and his wife will be most happy to take it." Dunois said, with her gaze turning to Drake and silently stating to take it, with Grissom nodding to Drake.
"Thank you, Matriarch. Now, if you will excuse me, I would like to inform my family about it. Secretary General, Admiral, Ambassador, Matriarch." Drake nodded respectfully to all and departed.
Several hours later. Asari ambassador vessel.
"Matriarch Benezia, if I may ask you a question." Telea spoke up to Benezia, once they were on their ship and private quarters, outside of prying eyes. "For what purpose did you make such an offer to that Human, Drake? I understand that he is the one who defeated the Turian Fleet, but I do not understand why you would extend such courtesy to him." Benezia poured herself some wine, before answering.
"Because, Telea, he may appear to be just that right now, but it is very much possible that one day, he will rise up to lead this Systems Alliance, or at least hold a great deal of power within it." Benezia began to explain. "Already, he is a legend and hero to the Humanity, and unlike his more sympathetic superiors, he possesses a far less enthusiastic view point towards us, and he is much more intelligent and better aware of the true politics than this Dunois is. I would not put it beyond him to have already deduced the true nature of my proposal, and know who exactly the true Ambassador here is." Hearing Benezia say such things was quite a surprise for her former protégée.
"He was unexpectedly well aware of your true social status, and the power it carried." Telea admitted. "And unlike his superiors, he has a more… skeptic point of view towards us. Do you believe he could become an opponent to us?"
"Perhaps, or he could become a valuable ally to us in the future, with the proper investment." Benezia said, as she sipped her wine. "Remember, they are a short lived species. Not like Salarians, mind you, but not like us Asari. Arthur Drake is relatively young by their standards, and has the makings of a leader among them, one that could be a great friend to the Citadel, and who may influence this young race to move in an appropriate direction." Telea could see the wisdom in Benezia's words, but before she could say anything, the call they were expecting, finally came, and in materialized holograms of Matriarch Council and Councilor Tevos.
"Matriarch Benezia, Ambassador Telea." Tevos greeted them. "I understand the negotiations have been productive?" After these words the two Asari provided their report on the situation, with Benezia concluding the report.
"The Systems Alliance will dispatch the delegation to the Citadel on board of their flagship, with the commander of Human Fleet in Gorgon System as its captain." Benezia was finishing her report. "I've extended to him an offer to have his daughter cured of her blindness on the Citadel."
"The one you evaluated so highly in earlier reports? Arthur Drake, I believe?" Matriarch Rhona asked of Benezia, who nodded. "You think he could rise up as their leader in the future, and want to have him on our good side?"
"He has qualities of a leader, and is a hero to them, but he is more than I originally expected him to be." Benezia said. "He had clearly studied the Codex, as well as logs of Turians and more, with much more attention to details, hence how he understood my status, and I suspect my actual role in the negotiations. He may not have shown it openly, but he is apprehensive of us, and not ready to trust us, and there are doubtless others like him."
"Yes, and if we give him this courtesy, we'll give Humans more reason to trust us, and be more accepting of our guidance." Matriarch Kalla spoke. "Well thought, Benezia. With a man like that in charge of this Alliance, if he is grateful and indebted to us, we may count him as our friend."
"Perhaps, but I am more curious about the Humanity as a whole, and how would you rate them, Matriarch Benezia." Tevos spoke up. "Their First Contact is nothing like what we've dealt before, and the fact that they not only fought, but defeated the Turians is unprecedented, and the Turians are furious, to say the least. Primarch Tarsis and Councilor Argonis are all but demanding the Council to declare Humans a threat akin to Krogans." To that some other Matriarchs just shook their head, with Benezia speaking up.
"Considering to what methods Raganis and his troops resorted against humanity, not to mention blatantly ignoring Conventions, those two should be grateful to still hold their offices." Benezia noted, reminding all the vids of Turian atrocities and the fact that Turians fired first. "But Raganis is only a symptom of a much more serious issue, one that we have allowed to fester. Tarsis and his clique have been looking for a way to expand their influence for a long time, and to get out from under influence of the Council. And as the result we have this, an unsanctioned war that he started."
"And one that they had lost." Rhona noted. "But Benezia is right, we've allowed these supremacist too much leeway, so it's time to reign them in. Who is Tarsis' primary opponent and closest successor?"
"Avitus Fedorian, a moderate by all standards, and a far more… agreeable member of the Hierarchy. With a bit of support, he could supplant Tarsis." Matriarch Serena stated. "But that still leaves the problem of Turian-Human relations open."
"Not to mention Humanity's extreme expansion. In less than 10 years they've not only activated their first Relay, but went as far as to establish colonies in the Traverse and our borders. They also have a navy numbering in hundreds and they were able to defeat a Council member race in open war." Matriarch Larentha reminded all. "Not even the Krogans were this expansionist and ambitious. The fact that they so carelessly probe relays and thread where they are unwanted…"
"Indeed, they are ambitious, expansionist and can be perceived as unruly. Yet at the same time, they are enterprising and driven, as well as diverse…" Benezia stated. "They have traits of all other races in them, and can exhibit them all, yet not embody, which makes them... unique, in their own way. And such traits may serve them, and the Council, well."
"What do you mean, Benezia?" Tevos asked of her.
"Considering the situation with the Turian Hierarchy and their current political state, it would be prudent for us to gain a counterbalance to the Turians, and the Alliance could become it. They are already expanding and gaining more and more power, and in a relatively short amount of time, they may well catch up to all of us, if they continue on this course." Benezia said. "None of us wish the repeat of the Krogan Rebellions, so I propose forging ties with Humanity, so we may depend on them, in case of… unexpected trouble."
"True, and if the Alliance decides to start causing trouble, we can always just use the Turians to reign them in." Rhona said openly. "There is also the fact that these Humans are situated right in the Attican Traverse, and are bound to come in contact with the Hegemony."
"They could be useful in stifling the Batarians and their aggression." Kalla agreed. "And serve as a barrier between us and the Hegemony. Doubtless, the Hegemony will not tolerate rivals in the Traverse, especially if it decides to lay claim to their vaunted Skyllian Verge. This could serve as a sufficient check to Human expansion, ensuring they do not grow too fast and out of our influence."
"Indeed, and because of that, it is imperative that we forge stable and good relations with them. The Hierarchy will need to pay for its transgression, or else we will lose face before all, and this will in turn serve as proof of our amicable intentions towards Humanity." Benezia stated, with others seeing her point of view. "It is a sleeping giant, and I believe it is best that we have him on our side. Otherwise, this giant may well become a problem we may lose too much in dealing with." And with that, the Asari concluded their meeting, having decided on the course of actions.
Viper Nebula. Citadel. Presidium. Human Compound. Two weeks later.
In his lifetime as a Primarch, Sanguinius had seen a great many wonders of the Galaxy, natural and built, by Xenos and Humans, and, at times reluctantly, he has taken part in their demolishment and destruction. He could recall each and every one of them, and the exact number of the monuments and wonders he destroyed, and compared to those, the so-called "center of the civilized galaxy," looked not quite so inspiring. Situated at the veritable crossroads of many Mass Relays, Citadel served as headquarters of the Citadel Council and heart of the interstellar politics and economy, or at least so was told to the humans, housing millions of aliens of various races.
Perhaps to the denizens of this galaxy and universe, this Citadel Station was awe-inspiring, but to Sanguinius it was barely worth note, if he were to compare to what he saw in his universe. The pyramid cities of Tizca, Imperial Palace on Terra, and The Phalanx of his dear brother Rogal Dorn – all those wonders shook his heart, but the Citadel was not like that, perhaps because of his views. He recalled void cities and stations bigger than this place, and how he had conquered, demolished and brought peacefully into the Imperium. If he were his old self and he had his Blood Angels, he calculated it would take less than two hours to fully conquer this station. In fact, it would only take a single Company to take this station, like 5th of Amit or 1st of Raldoron… But then again, he wasn't with his sons anymore, and this was no longer the universe he knew.
To say it was hard for Sanguinius to fully accept his new status and life would be an understatement, as his mind and memories wondered back to the past, to the glorious days of the Great Crusade, when Mankind reconquered the stars and was on the precipice of it's new Golden Era. Now… Now he was at humanity's infant years, his powers, mind and spirit that of a Primarch, yet body of a mortal boy, which he lived before he recalled who and what he was. And indeed, Sanguinius was Alex, as Alex was Sanguinius, and there existed no conflict in him about it. His parents, Lily… Sanguinius knew them, loved and cherished them all without any regard for himself, more so than it was with the Emperor, hence why it infuriated him to know, that his little sister was used by the Alliance and Asari as a political tool!
A way for the Alliance to gain more favor, and for the Asari to gain a leverage on his father and Humanity, it sure did not sit well with Alex. Despite the countless Xeno races that he and his Legion grounded to dust, there were instances when Xenos accepted the status of a client state, and Sanguinius would grant a chance to them to become one, instead of simply destroying them. Interestingly, he and Roboute Guilliman could considered to be the least xenophobic of his Primarch brothers, alongside Vulkan, but none would allow Xenos to exploit Humanity in any form or manner. Same held true to Sanguinius here, as he found the Xenos of this universe to hold Humanity as either an enemy, a resource, an exploit or all at once.
The Turians had reminded Sanguinius much of the old universe's Xenos, and if he had a chance, he would exterminate them all, if only for blinding his sister, but as it turned out, Raganis and his troops were a special case. Still didn't excuse the Turians for what they did, but from what Sanguinius observed and sensed, they were only attack dogs of the true ringleader of the Citadel – the Asari. The eldest race to have discovered the Citadel, with most advance technologies and longest living members of the Citadel races, naturally gifted in biotics and so much on, and much of it wasn't what Sanguinius liked. The Asari were regarded as diplomats and most culturally advance race, and Sanguinius could sense that they were the ones in charge of politics, carefully manipulating and maintaining the status quo beneficial for them, with their plans and ambitions spanning centuries in advance, and now Humanity became a new piece on their board.
The Alliance was seemingly willing and eager to play by their rules, something that disturbed Sanguinius, as the last thing he would wish for Humanity is to become dependent upon another race… Although this had already happened, with every race being dependent upon the technology of the Protheans, their Mass Relay, Citadel and so much more. This was yet another point displeasure for Sanguinius, but also an alarming question: what had happened to the Protheans? How could the most powerful empire in the galaxy simply vanish, leaving only ruins, relics and their archeotech? What was the cause of it, and how come every race in the Galaxy had access to them so readily, like they were once watching them all? There were more theories than answers, and for now, Sanguinius decided to leave it at that.
For the moment, he focused on what he could do right now, and the first thing he did was use his powers to carefully probe the Warp, and what he found was a shock to Sanguinius. Instead of boiling, incoherent and maddeningly violent storm, he found a calm, endless ocean, a complete and utter opposite of the Warp of his universe. Tapping into it was almost childishly easy, and Sanguinius could not even sense anything in it that could harm him, or affect reality, like Warp was there… and it wasn't at the same time. It was something absolutely different from his universe, yet Sanguinius wasn't going to lower his guard with it, so he made sure to be vigilant with it. He would not repeat Magnus' mistakes.
After his soul had fully awakened and his powers were activated, Sanguinius could sense a change beginning to take place in his body, as it was slowly and surely changing. His body wasn't entirely that of a normal mortal, as he could sense traces of genetic change, extensive ones at that, at least for this time. The energies of Warp had triggered an evolutionary process in him, which would see him change to something closer to what he was as a Primarch. The reason for it was that Warp was changing his body to better fit his soul and it's true power, though Sanguinius doubted he would get wings back. It would take time, but if he was correct, by the time he is 15, he'll already be at his physical maturity and remain at it. That would, however present another problem –explaining it to his parents and humanity, but he would worry about it later on.
Next up, after he was in safety, Sanguinius used every single opportunity to gather knowledge, information and data about this universe, races, history and more. His mind was able to process information on the level that could make supercomputers seem slow, so before he and his family departed for Citadel, Sanguinius knew everything that the Alliance knew. Now, after two weeks, he knew more than any living man alive about the galaxy about this said galaxy, having gained access to the information network of the Xenos, or Extranet as they called it. With this, he could finally formulate his next following moves, and Sanguinius had already decided for himself, that he will not be like the Emperor.
He has the greatest mind in the galaxy, with knowledge and abilities surpassing anything known in this galaxy, and Alex will use them, to help Humanity. In the past he was a warrior, a general and an Angel of Death, but a part of Sanguinius wished to be more than just that, a part that envied Vulkan for his successes outside of the battlefields and in the forge. Fear over his sons' fate had occupied his mind for all his times, denying him a chance to become an artisan like his amicable brother, to craft and create, to discover… Now was his chance, and he will make the most of it, but he needed to decided on where to start.
As Sanguinius contemplated it all, he sat in the chair, overlooking the Presidium, with a data pad in his hand, automatically reading and consuming information from it. He and the Human delegation was given a building for the duration of the talks, with Sanguinius spending most of his time in here. His mother and sister were at the private hospital that Matriarch Benezia recommended, so he was left to his own devices, at least until now.
"Alex." The boy blinked, coming out of his trance when he heard the voice of his father, turning his head and seeing him come in. "You've been here all this time?" Arthur asked of Alex, who nodded.
"Yeah. I wanted to catch up on my studies." Alex showed the data pad, while Arthur smiled to him, before he moved to the overlook, looking outside. "Any news from Lily and Mom?" Alex asked.
"No, I haven't heard anything yet. Been too busy doing… Doing what those diplomats should do." Arthur let out a sigh, before turning to Alex, who finished reading. "So, finished up high school program already?" Arthur asked jokingly of Alex, but Sanguinius could sense a tone of seriousness in his father's voice.
"I… I was just brushing up on something I read earlier." Alex decided to answer, but his father knew better.
"And did this something happen to be in the 11th grade?" Arthur asked of Alex, who somehow felt the need to avert his gaze, with Arthur letting out a sigh and kneeling before his son. "Alex, just because I'm not able to always be with you and Lily, doesn't mean I don't pay attention, and neither does your Mom. I… I can't even imagine what you had to go through on Shanxi, Alex, and I can't fathom how it had changed you… But I want you to know, that it doesn't mean you can't trust me and Mom, Alex. We know you are special, son, but that doesn't mean you have to keep everything in you. If you ever wish to talk about something, do not hesitate, son. We'll always hear you." Sanguinius could hear and sense the sincerity and love of his father, and it definitely touched him.
"I… Thanks, Dad." Alex said after a short while. "I just… I just want to be better, so that… So that Lily wouldn't…" Sanguinius wasn't lying on this, and Arthur nodded to him.
"Yeah, I understand, son. I do the same, but that doesn't mean that we can just stop being humans, and part of being human is taking time off, just so we can relax and rest." Arthur told him, before he gently took the pad away. "Now then, how about take a walk, son. See if this "center of the galactic community," really as great as it sounds." Alex nodded and rose up, as he and Arthur left the room and soon came upon one of the Marines that were there for their protection.
"Captain, sir." Lieutenant Hackett saluted Drake, who returned the salute.
"At ease, Lieutenant. My son and I are going out for a walk." Arthur informed Lieutenant, who understood what it meant.
"Understood, sir. Will you require an escort?" Hackett asked of him.
"How about just you, Lieutenant? Pretty sure Benning has everything well in hand here, and he can spare you for a little while." Drake said, with Hackett radioing in about it, and so the trio departed their compound, with them looking around. "Well, this definitely beats Arcturus Station and the plans for it. Hard to even say this is actually a station and not a planet."
"Yeah, the Asari and Salarians sure know a thing or two about how to make an impression with a place." Hackett said without thinking. "Hm, apologies, sir."
"No need, LT. Speak freely." Arthur assured him, as he looked around him, seeing the people outside in the distance. "Makes you wonder just how many people live here, on all her arms and ring…"
"Approximately 11.8 million registered denizens of various races, and around 3.1 million suspected unregistered ones." Alex answered without thinking, surprising Hackett with how accurate it was.
"That's… Pretty precise." Lt. Hackett commented, with Arthur not really seeming to be bothered by it.
"Not really. It's more or less rounded up numbers on the illegals part, pulled those out from the Extranet and the C-Sec's reports." Alex added, as he looked around.
"Okay." Hackett said, still shocked at what he heard earlier, before he moved to the Captain. "Um, sir, sorry for asking, but… I know your son was through hell, but is this…" Arthur could understand what Hackett was meaning, and answered.
"It is private matter of my family, Lt. Thank you for your concern." Arthur answered, with Hackett understanding that he overstepped his boundaries, with Arthur turning to Alex. "What do you think about this place, Alex? Nothing like Arcturus, is it not?"
"Yeah, it definitely is different." Alex quietly said, as they have stopped and looked out into the pond. "But like Arcturus and Shanxi more, they feel… ours. Real, not like this. This all looks fancy, but is all just a façade, hiding the simple fact."
"And what would that be?" Lt. Hackett asked, with Alex turning and pointing his hand up, towards the Presidium Tower.
"That the only ones with power are all up there." Alex said, with Arthur agreeing with his son. "And they won't share it."
"Your son has quite a critical way of thinking, Captain Drake." The trio heard and turned to see Matriarch Benezia and another Asari come to them. "Rather surprising, especially to hear such thoughts, especially from a child of his age."
"Matriarch Benezia." Arthur nodded to her, before noticing her companion. "And you are…"
"This is my daughter, Liara, or rather, Doctor Liara T'Soni." Benezia introduced her. "She had recently returned from her last archeological excavation, and I've decided we needed to catch up. And, despite her youth, she is one of the best experts in Protheans you can find in the galaxy."
"Mother, please." Liara visibly blushed, with Benezia chuckling to her.
"What, a mother can't be proud of her daughter's achievements?" Benezia asked of her, before turning to the humans. "Speaking of the Protheans, Captain, what do you think of them? I understand that like others, your race had encountered their ruins and learned from them." Benezia asked, moving closer to them.
"Personally, I don't really know what to think of them." Arthur responded. "History points to them as the dominant race in the far away past, before Humanity even developed a concept of society, yet now all that remain are ruins, relics and remnants of their former glory… Makes me wonder, what could've caused them to disappear, while leaving all of this behind." Arthur looked around them.
"There are a number of possible reasons for it: galactic pandemic, civil war, a hostile species and many more." Liara spoke up, drawn into the conversation. "But it is true that they were the most advance race, possibly the single one who achieved FTL flight and developed means for it. The Relays and the Citadel are clear monuments of their advance, and now it is all left for us to inherit and use."
"Maybe, though I do not think that the Protheans had that in mind." Arthur said. "If I may ask, Doctor, how long have you been studying the Protheans?"
"My expertise is rather short, only 24 years, so I can't qualify as an expert, as some may say." That number clearly surprised Lt. Hackett, while Liara didn't seem to notice.
"By the standards of the Asari, you mean?" Arthur asked for clarification, with Liara nodding. "Well, if you were a Human and were working on that subject just as long, you would've been regarded as a respected and reputable authority on the matter."
"I would be? I am only 80 years old, not even qualified to be seen as adult by some of the more conservative members of the Asari society." Liara pointed out.
"Perhaps, but we Humans do not have the same lifespan as you do. If you were 80 years old as a Human, you would be considered elderly by our standards, or a Matriarch in terms of your race." Arthur explained. "We can comfortably live up to 120, more or less."
"Oh, I apologize, I haven't considered…" Liara apologized, with Arthur nodding to her. "I am sorry, I was preoccupied with my latest work, when… When I've heard about humanity."
"Understandable, Doctor." Arthur responded, before he turned to Benezia. "Apologies for changing subject, Matriarch Benezia, but I was curious about my daughter."
"Yes, I have received an update from the clinic. She is currently being examined by the doctors, and they are taking extra time, since you are a new race and they do not wish to rush anything." Benezia responded. "I can understand your anxiety, but I assure you, those doctors have only the best intentions for your daughter, Captain. But I was surprised to hear you didn't decide to have your son examined as well. I understand he too had experienced that tragic event." Arthur was about to answer, but his son interrupted him.
"I'm alright, Matriarch." Alex answered for himself, surprising Benezia with the strength of his voice and conviction in it, not what she would have expected of a child.
"Hm, Captain, are you certain about it? I've seen the reports, and I doubt anyone could've survived it unscathed, let alone a young child such as yours." Benezia said with sympathy. "If you would like, I could recommend a professional to examine your son and…" At that moment, Arthur cut her off.
"Your concern is touching, Matriarch, but it is misplaced." Arthur's tone turned cold, surprising both Liara and Benezia. "My son has indeed gone through hell, but with all due respect for you and your professionals, I believe our professionals are an authority in the matters concerning Human children, and they deemed my son as healthy. Scarred, but healthy."
"Please, my mother meant no offence. She simply wished to offer assistance for your tragedy." Liara spoke up.
"No, it is quite alright, Liara." Benezia assured her, before turning to Arthur. "Captain, please forgive my intrusiveness. I may not have had much opportunity to speak with your kind, but I did see Human children of your son's age, and none act and behave like him. I am just concerned, as a fellow parent, for your child's health…" At that moment, Sanguinius has had enough of the intrusions, and spoke up.
"Matriarch Benezia, you are absolutely correct, for I am not like other kids, and I know that." Sanguinius drew attention to himself, with him sensing all minds focused on him. "I am different, yes, but that doesn't mean that I'm ill or there is something wrong with my mind. I simply survived through what I thought was war of extermination, watched an alien race slaughter Humans, children as well. I watched as they dropped meteors on our home and I had to save my sister from a shock wave, while I saw as light escaped her eyes. We survived for two months, and we escaped from there… So your concern is appreciated, Matriarch, but it is misplaced and honestly, irritating, especially with all that patronizing tone and false courtesy you offer us, as if we are mindless children playing with fire." Sanguinius stated with the coldness and strength in his tone, that made Benezia and Liara shiver, while Arthur looked with a silent surprise, with Hackett not sure how to react to it.
"I, what are you… C-Captain, I do not think your son understands fully what he is…" Benezia tried to speak up, but Arthur interrupted her.
"No, my son fully understands what you he is talking about, Matriarch. And like all living beings, he has a right to his own opinion, which he just gave to you." Arthur told her, placing himself between Benezia and Alex. "Now then, if you will excuse us, Matriarch." With those words said, Arthur, Alex and Hackett departed for the compound, while Liara and Benezia were left standing shook.
"Are… Are all Human children like that, Mother?" Liara asked of her, noticing her hand was shaking a little.
"No, I doubt there are any like that, Little Wing." Benezia said, trying to get the shock out of her system. "I did hear that Humans practice genetic engineering and modifications, but this is… Something else entirely." Benezia said to herself, still feeling shaken from this encounter.
Several hours later. Human Compound.
"So, it is impossible even for them?" Arthur said, once his wife finished retelling the events at the clinic after she and Lilian had returned. "So much for the "greatest doctors of the galaxy."
"I don't know about the greatest, but most prideful they definitely are. You should have seen how they were talking, looking at us like we were… I don't know, like we were children or animals." Morgan said, as she shook her head. "And the tone, like they know everything… It's like they…"
"Treated you like children, offering all the false courtesy and patronizing?" Arthur asked of Morgan, who nodded. "We've had something similar happen today when Alex and I went out. We ran into Benezia and she… Expressed concern about our son, offered help of a professional."
"Please tell you didn't agree…" Morgan almost begged him.
"No, I didn't have to say a thing. Alex told her off, said everything I wanted to since I met her." Arthur said with a small smile and chuckle, surprising Morgan. "Left her damn well shocked and at a loss of words. Her and her daughter at the same time, and I think he would've said some more, if he had the chance."
"Do you think this will cause issues to the delegations?" Morgan asked, though not quite concerned about it, as she was about her children.
"Doubt it. The talks were over today for the most part. Tomorrow is the final ratification and so ends our First Contact War." Arthur assured her. "But that is not what concerns you really, honey. It's about Alex…" Arthur could tell, since him and Morgan both shared much concern for their son.
"Yes, he… He has changed so much, Arthur. I can barely recognize him, and… I struggle to think of him as a child anymore, not after I saw him study and how he talks and…" Morgan said with weakness in her voice, before she sat helplessly on their bed. "I shouldn't have left Etruria back then, Arthur. If I had been there, I would've…" Arthur knelt before her, taking her hands into his and speaking up.
"I wish I could've been there too, but… We can't let that weigh us down, or change our opinion of our son. We both knew he would be special, when we agreed to that procedure, and none of us could've predicted Shanxi." Arthur told her. "I talked with Alex today, and I told him that if he ever wants to talk to us, we'll always listen to him. I know he has changed, Morgan, but he is still our son, even if he is smarter than most of those diplomats put together." To that Morgan smiled to him, calming down.
"I know, I just… I just want what is best for them both, and to never see them suffer like that." Morgan told him, with Arthur agreeing with her, before she saw the pad on the nightstand. "What is this?"
"It's what he was doing today. I took asked if I could look, and he gave it to me." Arthur activated and showed it to Morgan, shocking her. "He said he wanted to do better for Lily's sake, and I believe him, Morgan."
"These are high school tests and he… He aced all of them. Official program and all." Morgan said. "Not even was that good in his age." She said with shock.
"Guess he got the sum total of both our brains." Arthur joked, but Morgan just shook her head at his joke. "Look, Morgan, we both knew that our kids will be different from others, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Alex may well be the future of mankind, but he is first and foremost our son, and I'll love him no matter what."
"So will I." Morgan told him, hugging her husband, her fears alleviated, as she settled on what her course for future will be.
"Big brother, when do you think we will be able to go away from here?" Lily asked of Alex, after he helped her into her bed. "I don't like it in here. It all feels cold and fake. I wanna go somewhere different… Like home or Earth, but… But I'll never see it again." Lily said with a saddened tone.
"I think we'll be leaving soon, Lily. And I promise, you'll see Earth, with your own eyes." Alex assured her with a smile, placing a kiss on her forehead.
"How can you promise that? Those Asari were said to the best, yet they didn't do anything to help me." Lily reminded him.
"They didn't, but I will, little sis. You have my word." Sanguinius promised his sister, before pulling out her favorite book. "Now then, let's continue on where we stopped last…" And with that, former Primarch of the Blood Angels tucked his little sister to bed, while a purpose and a goal formed in his head.
He had suspected that those Asari would not be able to do anything to help his sister, and instead he knew they were simply using her for a study, and that infuriated him towards their race even more. Safe to say, Sanguinius was not going to be friends with the Asari, but before instead of dispensing his anger upon them, he would channel it into something far more productive. He had wondered where he should start the improvement of Mankind, and now he has found his starting point – his sister, Lily. He and his apothecaries had spent decades studying genetics of humans, in an attempt to discover a way to combat the Red Thirst. Sanguinius had full memory of those researches and more, and now he could use it to his effect, as there were results that could help him find a way to restore sight to his sister.
Once he returned back to Arcturus, he would need a lab and a place to work at, and luckily for him, he did have the means and the ways to get one. And once at work, Sanguinius will ensure, that Mankind be able to not only stand on it's own, but thrive and surpass these Xenos who would seek to make use of them for their own gain. Curing his sister will be his first step, after that he will begin a true battle for humanity's autonomy from the other races and their influence.
I am positively humbled by your support of this story. Thank you all so much for it. As you can see, Humanity is now involved in the politics of the Milky Way, and not all like it, especially Sanguinius.
Hope you enjoyed this chapter and will leave a review, a comment or a suggestion about it for the future. Your contribution help make this story better and allow me to improve.
Next time: Advances; Revelations; Acceptance
See ya!
