Arcturus Station. 2162
Arthur Drake moved through the corridors of Arcturus Station, with the lower ranking officers, servicemen and Marines saluting him as he made his way to the Admiralty. It was an all too familiar path that he took too often for his liking, not due to any form of misconduct or trouble his men caused, but because of how much he was involved in the politics, public relations and such in these past 5 years. Now Arthur understood why Admiral Grissom was glad that he was made the new poster face for the Alliance Navy over him, and as much as he wanted to punch the retired Admiral for not warning him of it, he was a dutiful and diligent naval officer, hence he maintained his discipline and appearance.
For many in the Alliance Navy, there was no greater honor than serving on and commanding a dreadnaught, especially Alliance's flagship, but Arthur Drake didn't see it the same way. Having spent 5 years by now in command of the SSV Everest, he could honestly say he would have handed that ship to anyone who would take it, because commanding it was less about space engagements, patrolling and power projection and more about propaganda and being a showpiece for the dignitaries and Alliance civilians. There was no denying the benefits of his position and posting, but personally, Drake was getting to feed up with it all, and instead of playing a celebrity, he wanted to do what he signed up for with the Alliance Navy: protect and defend Humanity, like he did back in Shanxi and the First Contact War.
Instead, he was stuck at Arcturus Station most of the time, only seeing action when it was time for drills, parades and such events. Still, even with those duties, Arthur made sure his crew and the Everest performed exemplary, as is expected of the Alliance's flagship. Yet, for all the downsides of his posting, he at least was able to spend time with his family, which Arthur honestly treasured and enjoyed. From playing and helping Lily study, to spending private and intimate moments with Morgan, to hanging out with Alex, or at least such was the case with the latter, until Alex had to leave for Earth two years ago, due to a conflict some elements of the Alliance's Parliament.
Because of that same conflict, those politicians had nearly politically lynched Arthur and Morgan, but Alex took the fall with grace, allowing them to remain where they were. Needless to say, that the Drake family had lost much faith in the Alliance's politicians and Parliament, yet remained committed to the Alliance, at least until recently. Now Arthur was on his way to see one of the highest members of the Admiralty, after he was ordered to come see him, and now Drake arrived in front of the Admiral's office.
"Captain Arthur Drake of the SSV Everest, to see Admiral Hojo." Arthur introduced himself before Admiral's secretary, who saluted to him.
"One moment, Captain." She said, tapping on her computer, before the door into Hojo's office unlocked. "The Admiral is expecting you, Captain." Arthur nodded and went inside the Admiral's office, where he found the man himself.
Admiral Ujiyasu Hojo was an imposing man of Japanese descent, born in Tokyo, who had served in the Navy since its conception and even before that. A veteran of the early space exploration, he was highly regarded by both the politics and the military, and had the full respect of the Navy's ranks. Since before the First Contact War, Hojo commanded 7th Patrol Flotilla of 1st Fleet, but with the reformation and expansion of the Alliance Navy in the wake war, he was given command of the newly formed 4th Fleet. Admiral Ujiyasu turned was in his late fifties, yet looked as fit and able as a man twenty years his younger, as he sat behind his desk when Arthur approached him and saluted.
"Captain Arthur Drake, commanding officer of the SSV Everest." Arthur saluted, with the Admiral standing up and saluting back.
"Thank you for coming on such short notice, Captain." Admiral Hojo responded before motioning him to sit. "At ease, Captain."
"Thank you, sir. And congratulations on your promotion, sir." Arthur responded, as he sat in the offered chair. "The Fourth couldn't have asked for a better commander than you, if I may add, sir."
"Hm, if the Hero of Shanxi says so, I'll his word on it." Admiral responded with a bit of a sarcasm, before adding. "You may relax, Drake. I know how you feel about that title. Just wanted to gauge your reaction."
"I believe I've made my feelings on the matter known plenty of times, sir." Arthur responded.
"Yes, you did. Enough times that there are those in the Parliament that want a less… enterprising and idler commander for the Everest." Ujiyasu informed Arthur, who was already aware of it. "But that is something you already know, and personally wouldn't mind, would you?"
"I have no qualms about my current station, sir." Arthur responded with a trained up line.
"You may speak freely, Captain." Admiral granted him permission, and Arthur spoke up.
"As much as I may appreciate the honor, sir, I would rather be out in the frontier, protecting our colonies and being a naval captain, than playing one in here, with all due respect." Arthur responded with Admiral Hojo nodding to him, before he took out a pad from the drawer and put it before Drake.
"Grissom did say you are a man of action and focus, wasted out here, and I'm of the same opinion." Admiral pointed him at the pad, which Arthur took and activated. "I will get straight to the point, Drake. With the formation of the 4th Fleet, the Admiralty is altering our strategy in regards to our expansion regions, and the 4th Fleet will be playing the key role in it. As you know, with the growing colonial expansion in the Attican Traverse, we've been facing more and more threats to our people: pirates, raiders, slavers and more. 4th Fleet will be deployed closest to the frontier in order to defend our colonies and shipping lanes, acting as less off a unified fleet and more as an assortment of flotillas, stationed at key Relays for rapid deployments and power projection in the region."
"Makes sense." Arthur responded, as he read the manifest about it. "The other fleets will also reorganized to the specs of this strategy, although I can imagine there are some who think this is just the return to pre-Shanxi doctrine."
"It is, but we've learned from our mistakes, and now have a much larger navy to make it work properly." Admiral Hojo responded. "Considering how the 4th will be operating out in the frontier, the Admiralty was generous enough to offer me a score of experienced captains and crews to form the core of my Fleet. All good choices, but I did add one name- yours." Arthur looked at Hojo with surprise.
"Sir?" Drake responded with a question.
"You are one of our most experienced captains, Drake, the man who held on to Shanxi and won against the Turians. I've studied your papers and works on the naval organization and reforms, and you've got sound ideas, and to be honest, you are wasted, commanding the Everest, and we both know that." Admiral Hojo stated to Drake. "That, and there are still some people in the Parliament who would prefer a more agreeable and less controversial man in charge of the Alliance' flagship."
"So I've heard." Arthur said with a sigh. "Those are the same people who forced Admiral Grissom to resign, I believe."
"Yeah, though Jon is actually happier to not have to wear his parade uniform all the time." Hojo chuckled, before continuing. "I know that because of that whole story with Rhea, your son had lost his posting here and had to go to Earth to teach our future geniuses how to do their work, and I know you and your family aren't too happy about it."
"Yeah, not to the first time politicians used my family for their own means." Arthur said with a bit of bitterness, before calming himself. "I take it orders about my redeployment are already signed."
"They are." Hojo then tapped on his computer and a hologram of what Arthur identified as cruiser-type ship appeared. "You will be given command of the SSV England, the lead ship of the new class that we've been developing in the shipyards of Earth."
"England? Last I recall, there are no ship types that use names of historical areas and countries." Drake noted, with Hojo nodding, before transferring more data to Drake's pad, who quickly read and understood what it was. "A dedicated carrier class? I thought that the Admiralty had canned this idea after First Contact War and analysis of the GUARDIAN Systems Turians used in that war."
"It was, but that was back then, when our fighters were inferior in every aspect to the Turians. Although, as I recall, that didn't stop you or your men from using them to make short work of a Turian Dreadnaught in the battle of Euryale." Hojo recalled.
"We've had luck and the terrain advantage on our side. Star's gravitation and asteroid belt concealed our fighters, as you recall, so when they attacked the Turians in the rear, their GUARDIANs couldn't effectively counter them." Arthur reminded Admiral Hojo, who nodded, while Arthur returned to reviewing the specs. "The frame is the same as new Geneva-class, but lacking main caliber armaments, making room for expanded hangars and dedicated flight decks. I take it this is just the test bed, in order to see how a fighter carrier can perform in space combat?"
"It is, and while the initial plan was to use a dreadnaught frame as the basis for the carriers, it met reservations with some members of the Parliament and Admiralty, so a compromise had to be reached: we use a versatile cruiser frame to test the idea in action." Hojo explained to Drake. "To say it was hard to push this initiative past the idea stage would be like an understatement. Most in the Admiralty and the Parliament believe that the future of space warfare lies in the dreadnaughts, while have become nothing more than part of naval history. However, as you've showed at Euryale and other engagements, that may not be the case, Drake, and I personally think we shouldn't discard the carriers for good. If anything, they could very well give us the tactical and strategic edge over other species."
"Because they do not operate any dedicated carriers." Drake surmised, with Hojo nodding. "I agree that the idea of carriers is sound and useful, but it can only work if our fighter crafts are up to this."
"Today, they are, and the 4th Fleet will be receiving all 8 of the newly constructed carriers, which will then be divided to form dedicated Carrier Task Forces. You will be part of Task Force England, stationed in Exodus Cluster, with your primary goal being defense of Terra Nova and closest colonies, including Elysium, under my personal command." Hojo stated to Drake, with him nodding. "I'm sure you've heard about how we've been getting in more and more fights with pirates, slavers and whatnot in the Traverse, and now we are pushing into the Skyllian Verge."
"Which the Batarian Hegemony considers theirs, and they've never been too happy with our appearance on the galactic stage." Drake breathed out, with Hojo agreeing with him. "Since the galactic west is predominantly occupied by Council Races and they are not too eager to allow us settling too close to their space, all we have left is the east, Attican Traverse and the Verge, which will mean conflict with the Batarians down the line. I wouldn't be surprised if this was their intention from the start, making us a buffer between them and the Hegemony."
"Hence why the Alliance's new naval expansion is ramping up, and we have four additional dreadnaughts under construction to add to our five already existing, not to mention cruisers, frigates and more." Hojo added. "And the Council is taking notice of our growing power, and that is exactly what the Parliament and the Prime Minister want. With any luck, we'll finally be granted an associate status within the Citadel Space within five years or so."
"Maybe, but then all the plans about naval expansion will be thrown out the window, in regards to the dreadnaughts." Drake noted, with Hojo turning to face him with a question on his face. "Citadel's Charter and Conventions outline that all members of the Citadel Community are bound to Treaty of Farixen, limiting operation and construction of the dreadnaughts by the Council races to a ratio of 5:3:1. Leading this treaty are the Turians, who are able to field all 5, followed by the Asari and Salarians with the 3 to Turian 5, and the associate races limited to only 1 dreadnaught to Turian 5. If we were to enter it, we would be forced to limit our number of dreadnaughts to just 6. It is roughly the interstellar version of Washington Naval Treaty of 1922, though aimed primarily at the dreadnaughts, and not all ship types, and is not regulating tonnage and ship size, but rather main caliber of the weapons." At that point, Hojo was impressed by Drake's attention to detail and knowledge of the topic of interstellar politics.
"And if that happens, the carriers may well become our solution to this problem, since they are not regulated in any form or manner in this Treaty, are they?" Hojo asked of Drake, who shook his head. "Good, then we best make sure that they can and will work as intended. You will be leaving in two weeks, once the ships arrive. Is that understood?"
"Yes, sir." Arthur acknowledged the order.
"You will be stationed over Terra Nova with the primary force of the 4th. As for your wife and daughter, they are free to remain on the station with all the amenities, naturally…" Hojo was about to continue when Arthur interrupted him
"Actually, sir, that won't be necessary." Arthur suddenly said to him, surprising Hojo. "My wife has decided to a discharging request from the Alliance, for good this time, and we've been talking about moving out of the Arcturus. She and Lily will be happier on Terra Nova than here."
"Hm, I can see why she would want to do that, but I feel like there's more to that than just dislike of politics." Hojo noted, with Arthur nodding.
"We've recently found out that Morgan is pregnant, three weeks in, and she wants to devote her time to raising it." Arthur answered. "And after what happened with Rhea and Alex, she only stayed because Alex had asked her."
"I see. Well, I can understand her reasoning. If you need me I'll see what I can do to accommodate your family on Terra Nova." Hojo told Drake, who nodded. "Any regrets about leaving the flagship, Captain?"
"Only that I can't bring any of my crew with me." Arthur responded.
"That I can arrange. Speaking of reassignments, I understand that your son's tenure on Earth is more or less over. If I may ask, does he plan to return to the Alliance and Arcturus?" Hojo asked.
"We've talked about it yesterday over the comms, and no, Alex said he is done. He only took that position on Earth because Admiral Grissom asked him to take it, to save his reputation." Arthur answered, with Hojo nodding. "Though I doubt Alex would've minded losing it, and I think Rhea was the one who convinced him to go to Earth, over being prosecuted by the politicians."
"Yeah, it wasn't pretty for anyone, when those bastards discovered Rhea's origins, and used it against Grissom and everyone close to him." Hojo said with a heavy sigh. "Those vultures used everything to remain in power, after Dunois' fall from office, and what they did with Jon, Rhea and your son... I can see why he would not want to remain with the Alliance. The last thing your son deserved was being prosecuted for essentially saving his friend's life, even she, by some definition, not actual human."
"Some say that about my son as well, sir." Arthur reminded Hojo of the Gilgamesh Initiative. "But I guess clones aren't human in the eyes of society and politicians."
"Yeah, the jury is still out on this one. Anyway, it is a damn shame that your son decided to leave, him and Rhea both. Two of humanity's brightest minds, thrown out because of political backstabbing and power hungry politicians." Hojo commented. "Any idea on what he might do now? With his reputation and amount of discoveries he made, I wouldn't be surprised if he'd have companies, laboratories and even other species gunning for him and his genius. Even those haughty Asari wouldn't pass up a chance to get one of our best minds to work for them." To that Arthur just chuckled.
"Well, I can tell that it won't happen, not in this life or any other. Despite his misgivings with the politicians, Alex's loyalties lie squarely with humanity." Arthur assured Hojo. "As for what he might do, I'm pretty sure he'll not be out of job for long. If that is all, sir, I'd like to inform my family."
"Of course, Captain. Dismissed." Hojo nodded and Arthur left the office, before Hojo tapped his computer, opening and comm link.
"Grissom here." Retired Rear Admiral Jon Grissom responded on the other end.
"Jon, it's Hojo." Admiral Ujiyasu answered. "How are you doing, old friend?"
"Frankly, I've not felt so good in a long time, Uji." Grissom responded. "No politicians, no media hounding you, and no delegations, ambassadors and other crap to deal with. Honestly, even if those jackals did not come after Rhea, I would have just retired here anyway. But I doubt you've called just to listen to me bragging about civilian life. What can I do for you, Uji?"
"Not sure if you've heard it yet on Elysium, but I've been given command of the 4th Fleet, and I've just had your former protégé, Arthur Drake." Hojo responded. "He certainly seemed happy to be transferred to my command. He'll have the command of the lead ship of England-class carrier and Task Force we've organized for it. I just hope he'll be up to the task."
"Trust me. Drake is exactly what the Alliance needs to guard the frontiers, and he is the guy who can make those carriers work. You have read the reports about his engagements in the Gorgon System, how he used fighters to cripple Turian cruisers and dreadnaughts. Apply the same principles, but on a larger scale, and we may well have the makings of a new dominant force in the navy. And knowing Drake, he's bound to come up with ways to improve it all." Grissom assured him. "Thanks for doing this, Uji. I owe you one."
"Consider us even, old friend, and I could use someone with actual battle experience in my Fleet. Plus, there's long been talk about quietly removing Drake out of active duty for a while now. Wanted to give him the same treatment as his son: desk job on Earth, out of prying eyes and so on." Admiral Hojo added. "Speaking of Drake's son, his tenure on Earth is up. Any idea on what he might be up to?"
"Why do you think I would know anything about that?" Grissom asked him.
"Just a hunch, considering he only accepted that deal because you asked him to, and your niece and he are pretty close." Hojo answered, before his tone turned more serious. "I don't need to tell you, that the Alliance is very invested in keeping Alex Drake on their side. Despite the past grievances, it hasn't forgotten what he did for us."
"Maybe you should ask Arthur. He is his dad, isn't he?" Grissom reminded him. "Look, all I know is that Drake won't be helping any other race, if that's what the Admiralty and the politicians are concerned about. He is no extremist or radical, like some members of Terra Firma, but his loyalties lie squarely with Humanity."
"But not the Alliance." Hojo noted, before letting out a sigh. "Anyway, you are sure you don't know anything about Drake or what he will be up to?"
"Look, he and I may be acquaintances and I like him, but I'm not his mom for him to tell me what he'll be doing." Grissom grumbled. "Last I talked with Rhea she mentioned that Drake was busy getting other back on Earth, while also teaching."
"Yeah, our Intel said he had gotten a whole bunch of those: physics, robotics, biology, electronics, etc." Hojo responded. "We thought he was only a genius in genetics, but he seems to your regular Leonardo Da Vinci."
"And now the Alliance wants him back, after they've retired him." Grissom let out a humorless chuckle. "Okay, Uji, but only because you are my friend, I'll tell you this: you ever heard about Angelus Industries and who runs it?" Hojo searched his memory, recalling where he heard that name.
"Yeah, some small company, specializing in designing equipment for the colonies. The Alliance buys some of the outpost equipment from them." Ujiyasu said. "Not all that serious, but their products are some of the best on the market. As for who runs it, no, I've got no idea."
"Let's just say that you'll start hearing a lot more about them. That's all I'm willing to say." Grissom told him. "Thanks for the call, Uji. Been nice talking to an old friend."
"Take care of yourself, Jon." Ujiyasu ended the call, before opening another comm link. "Anderson, I want you to find out everything there is to know about Angelus Industries. Names, places, tech- everything you can."
"Aye, aye sir." Commander Anderson answered, before Hojo ended the call.
Two weeks later. Exodus Cluster. Asgard System. Terra Nova. Scott City.
The shuttle touched down in the city's spaceport, from which civilians and military alike poured out, with Morgan and Lily Drake being among them, walking with their belongings to the registration. Soon the two women reached it, where the receptionist took in their IDs and spoke up.
"One moment, please." She said, inputting the data. "Missus Morgan Drake and Lilian Drake, arrived on the SSV London." Receptionist said, with Morgan nodding, before she returned them their IDs. "Here you go, ma'am. I've downloaded local map, passes and all the essentials. Your house has been prepared for you, and there is a car waiting for you outside. Welcome to Terra Nova."
"A house and a car? There must be a mistake, we were promised only a flat near the spaceport." Morgan was surprised to hear it.
"No, ma'am, there is no mistake. Here, a two story house in the north-western part of Scott's suburbs, all paid for and owned by you and your husband, Captain Arthur Drake." Receptionist answered. "Now, if you will excuse me. The care is waiting right outside."
"Did Dad really buy us a house?" Lily asked of Morgan, who shook her head.
"I don't know, honey, but if he did, I'm sure he would've told us." Morgan told her daughter, as they went to the exit. "Let's hope this is not some kind of a mistake or a prank." When they exited the spaceport, they found themselves on the parking lot, but what surprised them more was who was waiting for them.
"Hello there, ladies." Alex Drake, now looking as if he is full twenty years old with his hair now grown into a mane reaching the base of his neck, smiled to his mom and sister, who looked at him with a shock.
"Alex!" Lily finally grew out of her shock and ran to hug her brother, who returned her hug without hesitation. "You are here! How did you get here so fast, and wow, you are really tall now."
"Look who is talking. Where's that cute little kitten I left?" Sanguinius laughed with Lily, before he moved to his mom, hugging and kissing her on the cheek. "How are you, Mom? Here, let me take these. You shouldn't be handling this stuff." Sanguinius immediately took their baggage and they moved through the lot.
"I'm not so far along that I can't do anything, son." Morgan assured him, yet allowed him to take the luggage. "But how did you get here so fast? Last I remember, you were still on Earth, defending that last doctorate you were working on."
"Oh, I've pulled some strings at the MIT and got it submitted earlier, so I've arrived a couple of days in advance here to set everything up for you." Alex told her, as they've reached a modern red wheeled car, as he loaded the luggage in. "Sorry if it's not an aero car, despite what the adds say, they are yet to make it here in the colonies."
"No, it's all fine, and I'm assuming that it was you who arranged for the house?" Morgan asked, as she and her children sat inside, with Alex at the wheel and driving. "And when did you have the time to learn to drive?" Morgan asked, though not in a serious tone.
"About a month after I've arrived on Earth, I've decided to get my own license." Alex responded, as he drove them to their city. "And yeah, I did buy it for you. The last thing I will have my family is living in some prefabricated mini barrack. You do not have to worry about a thing, Mom. I've taken care of everything, paid the bills a few years ahead and so forth."
"And I appreciate it, Alex, but you did not have to." Morgan assured him. "We would've been fine with just that apartment."
"Maybe, but who is to say it's wrong for a loving son to want to spoil his mom and sis, after two years apart." Sanguinius responded, with Morgan smiling him. "And besides, I do have the money, and I've got to spend it somehow."
"It isn't wise for someone to be so ready to spend money, when he has a company to run." Morgan advised her son, recalling how he told her and Arthur before leaving about Angelus Industries. "Just because you get a cut from all your licenses doesn't mean you can forget about counting money."
"Yeah, but you don't have to worry about me in that area, Mom. My finances are all good, and as for my company, things are starting to look up for me." Alex assured Morgan. "While I was on Earth, I've made a few acquaintances with people, willing to invest into my company, and I'm about to start expanding into manufacturing. In fact, I've already bought two plants and a mine here already, and inspected it. All state of the art tech, and Rhea has already picked up the personnel for it, and we have our first contracts, so we are all set and good to go."
"Yes, it certainly sounds like it, but do be careful, Alex. Business at times can be no different from politics." Morgan warned him, with Alex nodding to her. "Alliance and their spooks have been asking about you and your plans after your tenure was over. Some have made offers, others preferred making threats… They really want you back, son."
"I know, they've been hounding me for the last three months about returning back on Arcturus and in the lab. Offered my own lab with limitless funding, or at least that's what they claimed." Alex told his mother. "Tempting, but I'm fed up with the politicians. First Dunois and her sucking up to the Citadel, then her successors and their damn power plays. Besides, the only reason why even decided to work with the Alliance was because they offered me the opportunity to heal Lily. Nowadays, I would not be able to make two steps without some senator, or minister or some subcommittee trying to use it for their own good. While I approve of the Alliance centralizing and taking a governing role, I don't like how the bureaucrats are looking after their own interests, over those of the Humanity."
"That's the system, Alex. It's not perfect, but it is working, and the Alliance is Humanity's representative on the galactic stage." Morgan reminded him. "It is not perfect, but such is the nature of humans."
"Yeah, I just don't want the Alliance to forget that it exists to serve Humanity's interests, not replace them." Alex stated, as they have finally arrived at their destination. "Here we are. Come, I'll give you a tour…"
Two hours later.
After Alex was done giving his mom and sister the tour of the house, they were finally able to have a proper reunion, as Alex ordered a dinner in. Once they were finished with it, they spend the rest of their time reminiscing and listening to Alex tell of his time on Earth and what he was doing there, when he was not busy with studies, teaching and other duties. The first thing that they had learned was the fact that when Alex had free time, he spent it traveling around Earth, often times into wilderness and places of nature, marveling and taking it all in. He scaled Elbrus, traversed Russian taiga, traveled the Amazon, dived into the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, and visited both poles and so much more. From the way that he was speaking of it, Morgan could see pure amazement and happiness for having done it all, like he was discovering for himself a brand new world, and she was happy for her son. Now they were drinking tea, talking about his time in Las Vegas.
"So, there I sat, with that mega magnate last remaining at the table. We bet all in, biggest pool of the tournament and it's time for us to show our hands." Sanguinius tells. "He flips his cards, and what do you know, he's got a full house of kings and tens, and he's ready to get the bank. But then I flip, show just one king, and then the second one, and he practically loses it, when he sees my four of a kind. He was so damn sure I was bluffing, that he couldn't comprehend how he could lose." Alex told them, with Morgan smiling to him.
"You know, of all the things I've expected you to be partaking, gambling was one of the last ones." Morgan admitted, with Alex just shrugging his shoulders.
"I did it mostly out of curiosity, even though I've won. Still, I prefer Warhammer to it, or some video game." Alex said, before he and others heard the doorbell ring.
"Are you expecting someone?" Morgan asked Alex, who shook his head.
"No. I'll go check who it is." Alex said, as he went to the door, opening it and revealing three Alliance officers in their dress blues, all of whom Sanguinius recognized, much to his displeasure.
"Professor Drake." The woman in Rear Admiral Uniform immediately spoke up.
"Admiral Cain." Alex addressed her with coldness in his tone. "Is there a reason why you are here? I believe I have made myself crystal clear back on Earth."
"I believe that we may still come to an agreement, hence why I've come to resume our discussion." Admiral Cain stated, before she looked inside Alex's home. "Aren't you going to welcome us inside?"
"Should I?" Alex asked of her coldly, with the two officers clearly showing that they were armed, and prepared to make their way in. "Let us spare each other the trouble. My answer remains the same, and that is no. Have a good day."
"And I'd recommend you reconsider, Professor. Otherwise, you will find that your life and lives of the closest to you may become not so comfortable." Cain resorted to thinly veiled threats, Alex finally stepping out, but not before closing the door. "I take it you are willing to reconsider my offer."
"No, I just don't want my family to hear me say this. Take your two hounds, and get out of here for good." Sanguinius' tone was deadly serious, and even the hardened Internal Security Marines shivered from it. "The last thing I will ever do is work with the duplicitous opportunist, who cares only about how many shoulder straps she has, regardless of how she gets them."
"You had better watch the way you speak to me, Drake. I am an Alliance's Rear Admiral and one of the highest ranking members of the Intelligence, whereas you are just a brainy mutant, who thinks too much of himself." Cain stated to him with clearest contempt. "You and your vat waste friend should consider yourselves lucky that we've left you alone after I found her dirty little secret. Personally, retirement was too good for her, and I would've sent her to the waste disposal. You have 24 local hours to reconsider my offer, Professor, or you will find out what I can do with my position." Cain stated to him before she left with her Marines on the car, with Sanguinius simply tapping his omni-tool and making a call.
"Drake, I take good Rear Admiral Cain hasn't taken a no for an answer." The Illusive Man said without any greeting.
"No, she did not, and believes herself able to force my hand to play by her rules." Alex responded, before he transmitted The Illusive Man some data. "And while she gave me her monologue, I've taken liberty of hacking her omni-tool. This should be enough to put her out of work for good."
"Yes, I'm reviewing it now. Who would've thought that an Alliance's Rear Admiral would be such an unhinged person… Our media specialist will tweak it a little bit, but her carrier is finished for good." The Illusive Man informed Drake. "A shame to lose such a potential ally."
"Cain's interests lie in only furthering her own position over that of humanity. She sacked Grissom and Rhea from Alliance to preserve her carrier after her connections with Dunois were threatened to come out." Drake reminded The Illusive Man. "She would've sold Earth to the aliens, if it allowed her to rule it for them. We stand for Humanity and it's interests, not for those that use those interests for their own greed."
"True, there is that." Illusive Man responded. "We should be ready for the evening news on Earth and Arcturus, which is in two hours of your local time. What's the status of manufacturing plant in Scott?"
"Already working, projections show optimal growth and profit within above expected estimations." Alex responded, before sending the full report. "However, I need you to send me a mineral survey team, discreetly."
"Care to share the reason for that?" Illusive Man asked of Alex. "And the second plant in Shepard?"
"Rhea's tested a new ground scanner, and discovered something interesting in our testing area. Need an expert opinion and confirmation." Sanguinius said. "As for plant in Shepard, I'll be paying it a visit personally tomorrow."
"Very well, you'll have your team, and keep me posted." Illusive Man responded. "Give my best to your family, Alex. Enjoy the evening." And after that, the Illusive Man hung up, with Sanguinius returning back home.
"Who was that?" Lily asked of Alex, who waved it off.
"Just someone really stupid and too big for her breeches." Sanguinius told her and Morgan. "An Alliance spook, who has been hounding me for the last three months, in hopes I'd work for her. I've made myself clear, she didn't like it and left. Anyway, how about a movie?" He immediately changed the subject, something that Morgan was glad to oblige.
Next day. Shepard City.
Sanguinius and Rhea toured the freshly constructed and outfitted plant, seeing the mechanisms at work, producing various components at high speed and precision. Once they were but prototypes in Sanguinius' plans, and now they were working industrial marvels of modern day, creating precise and efficient products at record time. Recalling technology from the Adeptus Mechanicum and his times visiting Forge World like Mars, Stygia and others, Sanguinius had managed to partially replicate some of their construction units. Back when he was still with the Alliance, these construction lines were only prototypes and blueprints, but in the time since, he had improved the designs, and while he was busy on Earth, Rhea saw to their implementations.
Now every plant that Angelus Industries owed now operated with construction lines that were better than any other example in the Alliance and even Citadel. With the ability to modify and program the production lines to suit any product and need, this gave Alex a massive leg up over his competitors. All he needed from then on were capable and loyal men and women to work for him, and sites for work, and he solved both problems while he was on Earth. The only true reason he even accepted Alliance's deal to work on Earth as a professor because it could give him access to perspective future workers, which he fished out and ensured would work for him. Meanwhile, after she was "honorably" discharged, Rhea used her newfound freedom to secure promising sites for plants, mines and more within the colonies.
To say that Rhea was surprised to find out her best friend was also a businessman would be about right, but she quickly got on board with Sanguinius and his ideas, becoming an irreplaceable member of the company. Whenever Sanguinius fished out potential candidates on Earth and sent them to Rhea, she sorted them and assigned them where they were needed, as well as secured contacts in colonies. The reason as to why they were situated on Terra Nova was because it was where most of their assets were now located, and from where they could effectively ship out their products. For now, they only had three working plants and several mines on Terra Nova, but plans were drawn for expansion into other colonies, with land acquired and resources scouted out. Now Alex and Rhea looked at the fruits of their work, as the plant director informed them of the inner workings of it.
"The new assembly lines are operating at full capacity already, and we are able to produce the necessary amount of the products, though if the demand increases, I'm afraid we'll need to expand the assembly plant further." Director stated to Alex and Rhea, as they have entered his office. "Outside from that, we've had no problem in logistical department."
"What of the workforce?" Alex asked of him. "I presume all of my criteria are being met?"
"Of course, Mr. Drake, we are following of your directives when it comes to personnel. All receive social and medical insurances, packages and so forth, including additional training and operation courses." Director informed Alex, who nodded. "The local population were more than eager for employment, considering we are offering a substantially higher payment than other companies. Although, there are some concerns that we may not be able to cover all of our expenses, with such benefits."
"We've already assessed this potential risk, Mr. Reynolds and found it negligible, as our assembly and construction lines are able to compensate for fewer work hours." Rhea responded, with director Reynolds nodding. "Now, about our newest product, how did the implementation of gone by?"
"Without a hitch, ma'am. We have new assembly lines already working on them." Reynolds tapped on the terminal and brought up the image of a large armored exo-suit. "These exoskeletons, despite their seeming complexity, are surprisingly easy in design and construction, and we are able to produce them in sufficient quantities. We already have a first batch ready and waiting to be shipped out."
"Good, and we already have clients for them. First batch stays with us, to help expand our mining operations." Alex informed Reynolds, who nodded. "With these exoskeletons and equipment we've developed for them, colonists will be able to establish mining operations within days instead of months. And this is just the tip of the iceberg of their capabilities."
"Indeed. Construction and shipping are also viable options for us." Reynolds said. "Speaking of construction, prefabricated building lines are also operating within expected standards, and we have already began to ship off products to Elysium, as well as other equipment. Although with the rate of Elysium's and Terra Nova's growth, we'll have to rapidly expand, if only to keep up with the demands."
"On that note, you have nothing to worry about." Rhea assured him, as she looked at the hologram. "The Alliance is bound to place an order on those soon enough. With their internal life support systems and protection from various hazards, these suits will be useful any number of worlds."
"Not to mention the potential military applications." Reynolds chimed in, but then Alex spoke up.
"This platform was designed as a civilian and industrial usage only, and as a test bed for future developments. In its current configuration, T-1A exosuit would only be good as a target practice." Sanguinius stated, as he looked at the hologram, before closing it. "But for the moment, it will suffice for our needs, Mr. Reynolds. From what I saw, all is well in order and running at optimal capacity. Good job." Alex smiled to Reynolds, who was pleased with it.
"Thank you, Mr. Drake." Reynolds said, before accidentally clicking the news, when he sat down his pad.
"And now we have an update to our earlier report." An Alliance Network news reporter spoke, drawing attention from all. "As we've reported yesterday, we've received an anonymous data package, containing within itself evidences of corruption, political sabotage, attempted terrorism and other numerous crimes. All of those crimes are attributed to Rear Admiral Helena Cain, a prominent member of the Alliance Intelligence. Until now, Alliance Admiralty and Parliament refused to comment on the attributed crimes of Rear Admiral Cain. However, twenty minutes ago, Minister Daniel Raines has given the following statement."
"The Alliance Internal Security and Intelligence have investigated the numerous claims of misconduct and criminal actions attributed to Admiral Cain, and we've found them to be sound." The man stated to the reporters. "Please rest assured that the Alliance has taken all appropriate steps to locate and take Rear Admiral Cain into custody…" At that moment, Rhea closed the channel, before looking at Sanguinius with a knowing eye.
"And how can one trust the Alliance, when they have people like that in them." Reynolds couldn't help himself. "Um, sorry, ma'am, Mr. Drake, I didn't mean to…"
"No worries, Mr. Reynolds. As for the Alliance, despite how at times it forgets it's purpose, there are still good people within it, people who know that they serve Humanity over themselves." Sanguinius stated, with Reynolds agreeing with him. "Now then, about our future assembly lines…" And so the two returned to their prior discussion.
Three days later. Alliance Frontier. SSV England
"Marengo was hit in the starboard engine, reports of fire on the engineering, containment is in effect." Arthur heard one of his officers inform him and Admiral Hojo.
"Have Marengo pull back and have Crecy and Alesia provide cover." Hojo commanded, while Drake turned to his duties as commander of the carrier.
"1st Fighter Wing, move to screening position of London." Arthur commanded, without turning from the tactical. "Bomber Wing 2, target Beta's engines. Fighter Wing 3, assume screening and defensive positon to Bomber Wing 2." After hearing commands, Arthur turned to his helm.
"Helm, attitude status." He requested, and got his response.
"Maintaining our relevant to fleet position, maneuvering to 1.2 degrees to starboard." Helm responded, with Arthur nodding, as he turned to the tactical map.
"This is Bomber 2-1, beginning our run on Beta." He and others heard the commander of the flight wing. "Confirming, all torpedoes are hit, Beta's primary and secondary engines are disabled, she is now adrift."
"This is Washington, Alpha and Gamma are pulling back, making a run for the Relay. Permission to pursue?" Captain of the SSV Washington requested, with Hojo answering.
"Granted, target their engines." Hojo commanded, before he turned to Drake. "Do we have any other assets to use on these slavers?" Arthur nodded.
"Bomber Wing 3, you are a go, intercept fleeing target Alpha and disable it's engines. Bomber Wing 4 and Fighter Wing 1, move to intercept Gamma, disable engines." Arthur commanded, and out sprung his fighters and bombers, moving to the targets and quickly disabling them. "All craft, status report on the casualties and send out recovery teams. Marine contingents, deploy to the disabled ships." Arthur commanded, with Hojo turning to him.
"Good work, Captain. Looks like England just passed her trial by fire." Hojo commented, with Arthur nodding, as he received damage and casualties report.
"It would seem so, sir, though I do have a question, sir." Arthur said. "Why did you choose England as your flagship, instead of the Elbrus?"
"I wanted to see how England would do first hand, after I've lobbied for it so much." Admiral Ujiyasu responded. "Those slavers definitely weren't prepared to so many fighters."
"They definitely weren't, which is surprising, given the capital ships they used." Arthur commented, drawing Hojo's attention. "Those are Fierce-class, Turian mainstay cruiser and what we faced during the First Contact War, and they had far more GUARDIANs on them than these. Even Tenacity-class frigate had more anti-fighter guns than those cruisers… Looks like the Hierarchy has started to phase out the Fierce-class and are sending them to mothball or scrapyards."
"Same as we do." Admiral Hojo said. "Still, good work, Captain. You haven't lost your touch."
"Thank you sir." Arthur responded.
"Sir, priority one message from Arcturus Station to Admiral Hojo." Comms called.
"Put them through." Arthur said, after Hojo gave his nod, and the holographic image of another admiral appeared before the two.
"Admiral Phillips." Admiral Hojo nodded saluted, with Arthur doing the same.
"Admiral Hojo, Captain Drake." Admiral Phillips of the Internal Security saluted to both. "Admiral Hojo, I am calling to inform you that we are sending a ship to Terra Nova."
"May I inquire what would Internal Security's intentions be on Terra Nova?" Hojo asked of Phillips, who let out a tired sigh.
"I assume you haven't heard the latest news, have you?" Phillips asked of them, with Arthur answering with the silent permission of Hojo.
"No, sir. We've just arrived in the Asgard and sent the civilians and garrison troops to the surface of Terra Nova, when we had received distress signal from one of our colonies." Arthur informed. "We've spent last three days chasing slavers, had to leave range of our comm buoys for some time."
"I see, then I'll be brief: four days or so ago, someone sent the ANN a data package, containing all the dirty laundry on Rear Admiral Helena Cain. I believe you are familiar with her, Captain Drake." At the mention of that name, Drake stiffened a little, but did not answer. "We've investigated, and it turned out to be true... Safe to say, this is the biggest scandal and PR disaster we have had since Dunois' resignation, and we now running damage control. Now the public knows about why Grissom really left the Alliance, and if that wasn't bad enough, we have evidence that Cain was in cahoots with an ultra-radical wing of Terra Firma, that planned a terrorist attack over colonies. In other words, it's an utter shitstorm we are facing."
"Yeah, no kidding." Hojo let himself speak freely. "But what would that parasite forget on Terra Nova?"
"Unknown, but our Marines have already apprehended her, and we've already sent our people to get her." Admiral Phillips informed them. "Last we've checked, she was on Earth, officially on shore leave, but we have evidence to suggest she was fishing for someone useful to her."
"I may have a suggestion as to whom she was interested in, sir." Arthur spoke up, with Phillips looking at him. "My son, Alex."
"Hm, that does make sense. We have been trying to get him back into the Alliance for a long time, but with no success." Phillips let out a sigh. "Letting him and Rhea go was probably out biggest shot in the leg. Those two had made more discoveries and in a year's time, than entire institutions do in decades, and we lost them because of politics and a morally corrupt member of the Alliance... I suppose there is no way for you to convince him to come back, Captain Drake?"
"With all due respect, Admiral Phillips, but not even I have that kind of authority over my son." Arthur told him. "And even if I did try, I can assure you, Alex would give a whole list of reasons why it would be a bad idea, most of which boil down to him being sick of politics, something I can relate to, with all due respect, sir."
"Yeah, so can I… Anyway, good hunting, Admiral Hojo. And Drake, congratulations on the new command. Phillips out." Admiral Phillips disconnected, with Hojo and Drake exchanging looks.
"Well, good riddance to Cain, I say." Hojo said. "I probably should've told you sooner, but Cain was building the case against you and your wife."
"Yeah, I've figured she would do so." Drake let out a sigh. "She had made it clear that if we didn't cooperate, we would find ourselves in hot waters with the Internal Security. Guess I owe you for pulling me out of Arcturus when you did, sir."
"Consider us even, on the account of your son saving my daughter and grandson." Hojo responded, with Drake looking at him with confusion. "Two years ago, SSV Stockholm suffered a drive core failure, while they were transporting evacuated colonists. My daughter was pregnant at the time, received enough Eezo to set counters off miles away. Both would not have survived just three years earlier, but thanks to your son, she recovered without a problem, while my grandson has biotics. When you next see your son, tell him thank you, for all he did for us."
"I will, sir." Drake assured him, before they returned to their operations.
Two years later. 2164. Citadel Station. Council Tower.
"Councilor Sparatus, thank you for joining us on such short notice." Tevos thanked her Turian collegue for coming to the Council's private chambers, where Councilor Saru of Salarians was already present, along with Matriarch Benezia. "Now that we are all here, I believe we can begin our discussions."
"If this is about Humans, then there is nothing to discuss, Councilor. They are still a newcomer, and have nothing to do with the Citadel Council and in our politics." Sparatus stated his opinion without hesitation, demonstrating clear distaste for the sole species that handed the Turians their sole defeat in conflict. "Despite your ventures to them, they are still infants in the galactic politics, little better than Krogans. They know no boundaries, respect no authority and are too ambitious for their own good, full of bluster and demands."
"Maybe, yet as it stands, we cannot turn a blind eye to the Humanity and their successes since their arrival." Saru stated to Sparatus, who turned to glare at her. "Like it or not, Councilor, but Humanity are here to stay, and the longer we ignore them, the higher the chance we run of not being able to contain them, should they become a threat."
"Some would say they are already a threat. Just look at the way they've spread out through the Traverse. Not even Krogans settled that many planets in such short order." Sparatus added. "This is a recipe for a disaster to happen, especially if we allow them to plant their roots in them. It would be safer if we were to move in and contain them until…" At that point Tevos spoke up.
"Councilor Sparatus, we have already had this discussion, so let me remind you, that the Hierarchy agreed to pursue a diplomatic solution and trust us to handle the negotiations with the Alliance and Humanity." Tevos spoke up. "It is this Council's policy to not seek conflict, and it remains such policy in this case too. However, at this point we cannot ignore the simple and evident fact of Humanity's rising power and influence within and without the Traverse."
"According to STG's information, the Alliance's Navy has increased the number of their capital ships over three times since their appearance 7 years ago, as well as modernized their exiting vessels to modern standards." Saru reported. "Since their appearance and colonization of the Traverse, we've been monitoring a steady decrease in the pirate activities, slaver attacks and more on our colonies and in our space. This includes the groups we are aware are being sponsored by Terminus Systems and Batarian Hegemony."
"That is to be expected, since they now have a much easier target." Sparatus noted.
"At first, maybe, but not anymore, as the Alliance's Navy has shown being able to quickly respond and adapt to hostile environment of the Traverse and Verge." Saru continued. "And in the last two years, they've gradually shifted from responding, to preventing attacks and countering them before they happen. Their unique method of deploying their military assets makes them flexible and able to effectively counter every threat from pirates, on ground or space level. In fact, the number of raids into their now interior colonies, such as Terra Nova, Shanxi and Eden Prime have virtually ceased, while more remote ones can expect help within hours. And they are still expanding their holdings and navy."
"Maybe, but what good will it do if they can't effectively settle their planets? They are so eager to claim new worlds that they do not even bother with properly developing their worlds." Sparatus stated to them. "How many of them even have basic amenities, or actual houses and not prefabricated boxes? They don't even have roads or any self-sufficiency."
"Before, they may not have had, but now it is a completely different story, Councilor." Tevos said, as she turned to Saru. "Tell him, Saru."
"The human colonies are expanding, at a far more rapid rate than we anticipated, and they are already becoming self-sufficient and bring in to the Alliance massive revenue, materials and such." Saru stated, as she showed Sparatus the pad with numbers. "This allows them to get better funding for the Navy and establishment of new colonies, which are able to almost immediately establish self-sufficient permanent settlements, with the ability to set up industrial, agricultural and mining operations without delay." Sparatus looked at the numbers, and he was shocked.
"How is this even possible? These… These numbers do not make any sense. No race has the capacity for such rapid colonization and industrialization, and Humanity should be no exception… Unless…" Sparatus' mandibles jerked. "Those greedy monkeys… They've probably uncovered a Prothean data cash and are using it, despite knowing…"
"We've already investigated this possibility, and we've found it to be false, but there is an explanation to their sudden leap." Saru stated. "We believe that the source of this leap in colonization settlement technologies is the responsibility of Angelus Industries, the now primary manufacturer and leading developer in the Alliance in terms of industrial, colonial, mining and several other areas."
"Angelus Industries? What is it?" Sparatus asked immediately, with Benezia speaking up.
"Initially, a small designing company founded 5 years ago, designing and selling licenses of industrial equipment for colonies to manufacturers. They continued this until 2 years ago, when they rapidly expanded, starting their own manufacturing and moving into new markets." Benezia informed them. "Primarily based on Terra Nova, they are the chief manufacturer on the planet, as well as monopolist on platinum mining and refinement, as well as asteroid mining in the system, while they also have factories, plants and offices in other worlds, such as Earth, Mars, Shanxi, Eden Prime and Elysium. They pioneer and develop various new methods and technologies, from agriculture and manufacturing, and their products are not simply good. They are the best you can find in the Alliance space, and in some cases, beyond the Human space. The company's revenues and positions are growing faster than we can predict, all the while they, surprisingly, maintain a very loyal to workers and customers position, which has earned them no end of favor with public, without even resorting to the PR. One could say that their quality products, availability, care and investment in their workers are the best marketing they can get."
"You must be joking… Are you implying that some corporation has better tech than we do?" Sparatus said. "If this company is so rapidly growing and has such an impact, then why do we not hear more about them? Surely they would've already made their presence known on the Citadel or Illium."
"I can assure you, it wasn't because of any foul play. In fact, many of our companies and corporations quickly took notice of Angelus Industries, and tried to make ventures and contracts, but they have refused to make business with them." Saru stated. "As far as we know, they operate strictly with Humanity and within Alliance Space, and they have a tight control over their employees. Even the few non-Human employees they have are not willing to cooperate with us, and we've found it difficult to send spies inside."
"And who runs this company?" Sparatus asked of them.
"One Alexander Drake, or Alex Drake as he is more commonly known." Saru reported. "STG has had a file on him since 2159, after he had developed his Eezo poisoning treatment, which we have not been able to crack yet. A veritable genius in nearly every field of science, as well as a known augmented human, product of a rogue extreme genetic treatment or something like that. Worked within the Alliance until 2160, before transferring to Earth as a Professor in Oxford University for 2 years, and then he left for Terra Nova, leading his company since in the open."
"I've met him, several times. He and his family came to Citadel, and I offered his parents to cure his sister's blindness, but the hospital failed to do anything. Two and a half years later, he developed an effective and reliable method, which restored her vision." Benezia stated, with Tevos giving her a questioning look. "He… He is not like other humans, but he is brilliant, possibly the most gifted human there is. And he has reasons to distrust us, especially the Turians."
"Of course he does, but is it just their usual arrogant belief in their supremacy and innocence, or something valid this time?" Sparatus said without a care in the world.
"He and his sister were on Shanxi, in Etruria when Raganis invaded, with Drake's sister losing sight after witnessing an meteor strike the city, after which he and his sister survived for two months, alone, in occupied land." Benezia informed Sparatus, making him shut up and stiffen. "During that time, he witnessed every single atrocity Raganis' men taken part in and inflicted upon civilian populace. And before Etruria was destroyed, he took his sister out and carried her for dozens of miles until they've reached safety, exhausted, malnourished, but alive, because of him." To that Sparatus had absolutely nothing to say, with Tevos deciding to speak up.
"Matriarch Benezia, you have already met him. Do you believe it would be possible to find common ground with him?" Tevos asked of her.
"Alex Drake is not exactly a racist, but he has made it clear to me that he stands for Humanity first, and it is my assessment that he seeks it's advancement in power and position." Benezia stated. "And with the Angelus Industries, he is achieving it. In my opinion, Councilor, the longer we ignore the Alliance, the more they start to think that they do not need to listen to the Council, and Drake shares that opinion."
"True, there is also the fact of their rapidly growing Navy to consider. They already have 6 Dreadnaughts operational, and 3 more bound to become more operational within the year." Saru stated. "With the advances they are making, within 10 years we may be looking at someone who could potentially challenge either one of us, if not sooner, and our current position towards the Alliance is not doing anything to stop them. There is one solution to this, though…"
"No! Absolutely not! No race has ever been offered an Associate Status so soon, no matter their advances!" Sparatus protested.
"Because no race has ever showed such progress and growth in power, and if left unchecked, they could become a force, that would make Krogans seem tame if provoked." Tevos stated. "Pursuing war with them, without clear justification or cause would not only jeopardize our position, but also weaken us extremely before Terminus System, Traverse pirates and the Batarians. As it stands, the Alliance are already serving us by shielding us from those threats, as well as serving a shield for us, but this shield can turn into a sword pointed towards us."
"Yes, and the Alliance's expansion into the galactic east means they will come into conflict with Batarians within a few years, and it would not be to our benefit if the Council were seen as friend with Batarians." Saru informed them. "By making them our Associate member, we can ensure that we have influence in their dealings, and limit their military growth through the Farixen Treaty. Humanity has been interested in this since the start, and I say we acknowledge their successes by giving them this status. And since they are proving so capable of defending themselves and expanding into Traverse, we let them do so for us, without us risking anything."
"So in other words, you want to give them this as a symbolic gesture, without any real say in anything?" Sparatus clarified.
"They will have the ability to bring their issues and matters to us, but it is the Council that always decides how to best act in the interests of the galaxy." Tevos reminded him, basically agreeing with Sparatus, who knew how to read political talk. "I move to support the notion of granting Humanity's Associate Status."
"Seconded." Saru responded, making it a sure deal.
"Denied." Sparatus said, but it was a moot point.
One week later. Exodus Cluster. Geosynchronous orbit over Terra Nova.
Orbiting Terra Nova, a massive asteroid, or rather planetoid moved in a synchronous orbit to it, all the while Angelus Industries were transforming it from a simple space rock into a fully functioning spaceport and hub of trade and economy. Already it had docking, storage and many amenities, as well as an administration building, which currently belonged to Angelus industries, who invested into this project. Since their appearance on the markets and expansion, Terra Nova saw a massive surge in population, economy and overall power, becoming one of the central economy hubs, as well as supplier of many precious and rare metals, not to mention home of Angelus Industries.
This asteroid, now dubbed Skyfall, served as both symbol of Angelus' successes, and the ingenuity and determination of humanity in their quest to colonize and expand into the skies. And as Sanguinius observed the work being carried out below, he waited for his guests, which he sensed were already here.
"Mr. Drake, your guests have arrived." His secretary informed him, and immediately let them in, with Sanguinius turning to face Admiral Ujiyasu Hojo and his father, now Rear Admiral Arthur Drake.
"Admiral Hojo, Admiral Drake, welcome, and thank you for coming on such short notice." Sanguinius said, before he offered them seats. "Please, be seated. We have much to discuss…"
Decided to do a bit of a different kind of a chapter, with more dialogue and less exposition, hope you like it. As you can see, Sanguinius has cut a bit loose and is now booming in business… Primarch-capitalist, first time for everything. Oh, and as for Shepard City, it wasn't named after Commander Shepard, but Captain Alan Shepard, first American to go to space, if I recall correctly.
Also, about the England-class, they are not like canon ME carriers, but prototypes of them, just so you know.
Hope you enjoyed this chapter and share your opinion on. If you have suggestions, questions or possible romance and story options, let me know. Your contributions help make it better.
Next time: Deal with the Angel;
See ya.
