Seven Hours after the death of the Shadow
Shepard is on her way back to the Enterprise, feeling a mix of emotions after going through something she never wants to experience again. She allowed those she considered close to fulfill their duties, only to tragically lose their lives in the process. In the corner of the shuttle, there lies a body bag containing the remains of her dear friend. Shepard knows that Hackett will undoubtedly want her back in some form.
Now, she's gearing up to confront the Coalition Leadership for the last time, as their betrayal won't go unanswered. Once she regains control of her Empire, her next targets will be Victus and Director Harper, and the Citadel Council can either play along or face the consequences. Shepard is done playing games with the so-called leaders of the galaxy. She agrees with Sara's belief that peace must reign throughout the galaxy, and she believes she's the one who can make it happen. Her war needs to come to an end. She can't keep fighting old battles just for the sake of returning to the status quo. The galaxy needs to evolve into something greater, and Shepard is determined to bring about that change. Sara was right, and Shepard is ready to bring real change and true peace to her Empire.
As the shuttle lands and the door opens, Shepard's eyes fall upon the crew, their faces beaming with joy. Among them, some of her Battered Bastards, join in the chorus of cheers. Shepard's gaze locks with Katherine, who stands just outside the door. Slowly, Shepard approaches, mindful of her tender side. Katherine embraces her, swaying gently from side to side. Shepard pulls back, planting a swift kiss on Katherine's lips before they part.
"So... Off to the Republic Homeworld, then?" Admiral Gerrel remarks as he walks out of the crowd, the group eagerly awaiting Shepard's next move. However, Shepard has different plans brewing in her mind.
"No... Set a course for Rannoch... The Coalition Capital World... Gerrel, be honest with me, did you have any idea?" Shepard asks, her voice tinged with a mix of seriousness and curiosity.
"That the Leadership had authorized your assassination..." Gerrel responds, shocking the crew of the Enterprise. Gerrel knows better than lie to Shepard.
"... Only after you reported that you had taken down the Shadow. The Leadership wanted confirmation of your death, not Director Anderson's... So, what's your plan for Rannoch?" Gerrel asks since this does involve his homeworld. Shepard looks at him, taking a moment to gather her thoughts before speaking the words aloud for the first time.
"To bring peace and order to my new Empire..." Shepard's own admission catches her by surprise. Referring to this organization as her Empire leaves everyone in the room astonished. Shepard scans the faces, trying to gauge their reactions. Many appear uneasy, to say the least, while others remain uncertain. Only Katherine, who had been confided in months ago, stands there unfazed. Shepard notices that Gerrel wears a displeased expression.
"Your new Empire..." Gerrel responds, his tone reflecting his discontent as the group eagerly awaits Shepard's response.
"Yes... My... Our new Empire... We have an opportunity to bring about real change... The Leadership sent us all to die on Faros and this frozen wasteland... I am no saint... I've set aside my morals for some time now... I am tired... Before I leave our Empire to its own devices, I want it to thrive. To stand on its own two feet... Together, we can bring peace and stability to our nation... We have the chance to reshape the galaxy once and for all, to bring about genuine change... They are betraying you. Join me, and together we can put an end to them, ushering in a new era of true change..." Shepard's words resonate, drawing inspiration from Sara's ideals. The room falls into a contemplative silence. A Geth Prime has been broadcasting Shepard's words to the fleet and her troops on the ground. Garrel steps forward, and Shepard braces herself for his response, knowing it won't be favorable.
"My loyalty is to the Conclave! To democracy!" Gerrel screams at Shepard, his voice filled with conviction. Shepard stands firm, unaffected by Gerrel's outburst, meeting his gaze with unwavering determination.
"It will be a democracy... I may refer to it as an empire... But it will remain a land of freedom... Admiral... I assure you of that," Shepard responds calmly, emphasizing the underlying principles.
"You have made many promises, Commander, and delivered very little," Gerrel retorts, his tone laced with skepticism. The troops observe the intense exchange between the two officers, their attention fully captured.
"It's rather challenging for me to keep those promises when the Leadership won't even attempt to give me the opportunity," Shepard fires back, highlighting the obstacles she has faced.
"Oh... is that so, Commander? So, I guess you're suggesting that the Orbital Station, the organization you're backing, is the one responsible for all of this! That you're the one who started this war!" Gerrel exclaims, his tone accusatory. Shepard remains composed, meeting his gaze with a calm demeanor.
"You're right, Admiral... I did start this war... I won't deny it... At first, I was driven by a craving for revenge against the Alliance... I still do... But now, my intentions have changed...my dreams have changed...I want change... I want peace..." Shepard states, her voice relaxed yet resolute. Gerrel looks at her, shifting his weight to one leg and crossing his arms, a hint of skepticism in his expression.
"Admiral, I know we haven't always seen eye to eye on many things. But I want to ensure you that I would never intentionally put your people or anyone else in danger if there was a way to avoid it. Our goal is ever lasting peace, a peace that benefits everyone involved. It's appalling to see certain representatives within the leadership, like Chairman Vakarian, actively prolonging this war."
Shepard's words hung in the air as Gerrel, with a thoughtful expression, looked towards the heart of this war. He let out a sigh, expressing his frustrations and concerns.
"... I can't support an Empire," Gerrel began, his voice tinged with reluctance. Shepard started to speak, but Gerrel politely interrupted, gesturing for her to hold on.
"But I could support a Republic... a true Republic, one that doesn't resemble the autocratic rule of Chairman Vakarian's government," Gerrel stated, surprising Shepard with his unexpected viewpoint. Shepard stepped forward, a smile spreading across her face.
"Well, Admiral, that's something I can definitely get behind," Shepard replied, her tone filled with genuine enthusiasm. Gerrel looked at her, his expression a mix of caution and contemplation.
"Just don't make me regret this decision, Commander," Gerrel cautioned, his voice filled with a hint of concern. "I'll need to discuss this with the other admirals because what you're proposing is technically treason. We'll need their majority support." Shepard nodded, acknowledging the challenges ahead. As Gerrel departed, she turned her gaze towards her loyal troops and crew, who stood at attention, ready to march towards the capital.
--
Five days later, in orbit around the planetary system of Rannoch, the capital world of the Galactic Coalition
Shepard stands at her helm, observing Katherine as she talks with Coalition Command wanting to know why they are here with their task force instead of the Turian Republic Capital World. It isn't until Admiral Gerrel interjects, classifying why they are here and warning against further inquiries, at that the Controller gives Shepard and her task force permission to commence their landing.
"That was a close call, Admiral... Any updates?" Shepard inquires as she makes her way to the hangar to prepare for the mission.
"Yes... Xen and Korries are on our side. As long as you bring peace to this war, Tali and Raan, unfortunately, are being detained. The members of the Conclave we spoke to won't support our coup, but they won't interfere either, while a few others have voiced their support but won't show it until we have the capitol." Garrel updates Shepard, leaving her shocked by Tali's not being by her side this time.
"Urdnot Wrex has agreed to support us, but like the rest only of you bring peace at the end of this war. The Geth have also pledged their support, at least for now. The EPR has always been by your side, Commander. That leaves us with the Turian Republic and Phoenix to contend with, as well as the factions that won't lend us their support. What about the Alliance?" Gerrel asks Shepard.
"Prime Minister Croft will recognize our government if we succeed. I've also received word that the UN and the Council share the same sentiment. They've grown tired of dealing with the ineffective Coalition Leadership," Shepard states as she reaches her locker and begins arming herself. She hopes she won't have to confront her own people, but she prepares for it nonetheless.
"Has the Leadership been called for a special session?" Shepard asks, aware that a few individuals won't be present. Nevertheless, capturing the capital of the Galactic Coalition symbolically solidifies her new government.
"Yes, they have been called, along with the Conclave. Xen and Wrex will handle the Conclave, while Koris and I will take Coalition Command. Meanwhile, you and your forces will move on the Leadership. The EPR and Geth will secure the perimeter around the city. Hopefully, we can seize the city with minimal bloodshed," Garrel explains. As Shepard boards her shuttle, she finds Garrus, Karen, Aubree, and Gibson already waiting. Her forces have already begun their landing.
The shuttle begins its descent through the atmosphere. Shepard makes her way to the cockpit, gazing out at the breathtaking view of shuttles swarming in every direction, all heading towards their respective objectives. The pilot's voice comes over the intercom, announcing a thirty-second warning. They will be dropped off a few kilometers before reaching the Leadership building. As the shuttle lands and the door opens, Shepard steps out and approaches the ground commander, a Quarian marine.
"Commander Shepard, we are ready to go," the ground commander states. Shepard gives the order to mobilize.
"This is Shepard... we're oscar mike... ETA 15 minutes," Shepard updates all units.
"Solid copy... we're mobilizing as well... good luck," Admiral Gerrel responds. Shepard boards a mobile transport, realizing that she is about to cross her Rubicon. Never in her life did she imagine herself toppling a government body like this. However, she sees it as the only way to bring about peace. Shepard has sent a message detailing the imminent events, which will arrive in Solona's hands just moments before she seizes control of the Coalition Government. Shepard promises her new governmens full support if Solona chooses to fully fall in line, leaving the decision of freedom or oppression in her hands. If the Turian Republic does not yield, they will be left to face the consequences alone.
As Shepard's convoy approaches the hastily constructed government building, the radio chatter intensifies. Gerrel reports engaging in light combat with Coalition Command. Wrex and Xen confirm the successful capture of the Conclave, along with members of Phoenix. As the building comes into view, the convoy comes to a halt, and Shepard's troops disembark from the transports. Shepard orders them to form lines as she prepares herself and her forces. Garrus approaches her, accompanied by Karen, and hands Shepard her SCAR rifle.
Civilians near the building gaze at the task force, particularly in awe of the presence of the legendary Commander Shepard. Taking the lead, Shepard positions herself in front of her troops and begins ascending the long staircase of the building. Her soldiers march in perfect unison, with Garrus and Karen by her side, as they advance against the government that had betrayed them.
As Shepard and her forces approach the building, guards emerge with their rifles lowered but poised for action if necessary. It appears that news of the assault on both the Conclave and Coalition Command has reached them. Shepard commands the front ranks to raise their rifles but refrains from ordering them to fire. The guards swiftly retreat, creating a path for Shepard and her team to continue their advance towards the building.
Shepard, accompanied by her team, makes her way to the main chamber of the building. As they approach, they hear a few sporadic rifle shots. Upon reaching the doors leading to the leadership's main chambers, Shepard notices a few fallen guards nearby. She commands the doors to be opened, with Garrus and Karen cautiously opening them while Aubree and Gibson keep their rifles raised, prepared for any resistance. To their surprise, they encounter no opposition.
Shepard steps into the chambers, returning for the first time since she had helped establish the very government she now intends to reform. In the stands, representatives from various species within the Coalition observe the scene. Krogan who are aware of the situation, the Quarians who are shocked by the Admirals' coup, Turians taken aback by the swiftness of events, and even Humans from the EPR, along with unexpected Terra Novaian representatives who had expressed interest in joining the Coalition. As Shepard reaches the center of the main chamber, she surveys the faces of those present. Some are aware of the ongoing events, while others remain in the dark.
Shepard's gaze falls upon the speaker of the assembly. Addressing the chamber, she utters words that will once again reshape the very fabric of the galaxy.
"Members and representatives of this governing body... you are hereby disbanded on the grounds of sedition, conspiracy, and treason!"
--
Hours Later
Shepard stands near the podium, a symbol of authority in the newly captured Capital. Before her, the captured members of the Coalition leadership, including many members of the Conclave, members of the Turian Republic, and Phoenix, sit in silence. They are now prisoners, awaiting their fate. Among the new Federal Government members seated where the old Coalition leadership once sat, some members of the Conclave who supported the coup are also present. However, Solona Vakarian, the leader of the Turian Republic, has not yet responded to the new leader of the stronger Federal government.
The old governments of the galaxy have already expressed their praises and recognition of Shepard's new administration, along with hopes for continued good faith. However, it is important to address the people of Shepard's new nation and explain the reasons behind the abolition of the Coalition. Terra Nova has agreed to withhold judgment until Shepard addresses the galaxy. With confidence, Shepard approaches the podium and gazes into the camera.
"Ladies and gentlemen of this proud nation and citizens of the galaxy, just hours ago, you were informed of our seizure of power. I stand before you today to provide an explanation for this action.
The Coalition leadership engaged in acts of treason, sedition, and conspiracy against our armed forces and our people. Their priorities never aligned with the greater good, as they allowed personal interests to prolong the war with the Systems Alliance and now the Hierarchy..." Shepard began, but then paused and looked at the prepared speech. She then glanced at the members in the chamber, turned off the pad, and firmly grasped the sides of the podium. Those familiar with Shepard knew that a powerful speech was about to unfold.
"The decision to dismantle the Coalition was not taken lightly. It was a necessary step, driven by the urgent need to restore justice, peace, and genuine representation to our people. The former leadership, blinded by self-interest, failed to fulfill their responsibilities and uphold the values that define our great galaxy.
We have witnessed the erosion of trust, the abuse of power, and the disregard for the well-being of our citizens. We could no longer stand idly by, watching as our galaxy descended into chaos and despair.
This is a moment of true unity, where we set aside our differences and work together to rebuild a galaxy that thrives on cooperation, equality, and progress. Together, we will rebuild what has been shattered, restore faith in our institutions, and create a future that fills us with pride.
Change is never easy, but it is essential for growth. Let us embrace this opportunity to redefine our destiny and ensure that the mistakes of the past are not repeated. Together, we will overcome the challenges that lie ahead and forge a galaxy that is worthy of the sacrifices of our brave and courageous soldiers, both past and present.
In the wake of the unsettling events that have in recent months stain the very idea of the Coalition, which is marked by a web of lies and the ultimate betrayal inflicted upon both our people and our soldiers by the former Coalition leadership... And in order to continue security and improving stability The Coalition of Galactic States shall be reorganized into the first Galactic Federation! For a safe and secure society."
As Shepard's words resonate through the chamber, a charged silence fills the air. Slowly, the new representatives and officials rise from their seats, their applause echoing with a subtle, yet unmistakable, undercurrent of determination and resolve. The thunderous roar that reverberates off the chamber walls is a testament to the collective yearning for change and the belief that the Galactic Federation will bring about a future that is both prosperous and safeguarded.
--
Admiralty Board Main Headquarters, Rannoch Capital City, Board Conference Room
"...In the wake of the unsettling events that have in recent months stain the very idea of the Coalition, which is marked by a web of lies and the ultimate betrayal inflicted upon both our people and our soldiers by the former Coalition leadership... And in order to continue security and improving stability The Coalition of Galactic States shall be reorganized into the first Galactic Federation! For a safe and secure society."
As Shepard's words resonate through the chamber, a charged silence fills the air. Slowly, the new representatives and officials rise from their seats, their applause echoing with a subtle, yet unmistakable, undercurrent of determination and resolve. The thunderous roar that reverberates off the chamber walls
Tali listens intently to Shepard's speech from the monitor on the wall, her gaze fixed on the woman she once held in high regard. The woman who had inspired her to rise to the rank of Admiral, and who had been there for her during the difficult loss of her father. Lost in her thoughts, Tali mutters to herself, "... So this is how liberty dies... With thunderous applause..."
Her musings are interrupted by Admiral Ran, who reluctantly admits, "...as much as I hate to admit it, Tali, Shepard has a point..." Tali acknowledges that Shepard has made valid arguments, but she also recognizes the exaggeration in her words and understands the reasons behind it. As she watches Shepard being applauded on the screen, her former commander and friend, she can't help but feel that everything she has fought for is crumbling beneath her feet. The war, Shepard's war, has fractured friendships and torn families apart.
Taking a seat at the conference room table, Tali and Raan suddenly hear gunfire echoing through the corridor. Reacting swiftly, they rise from their seats and rush towards the door. The sound of gunfire grows louder and nearer, until it abruptly ceases. Tali strains to hear Turian voices on the other side of the door, followed by the pounding of fists against it. Moments later, the door swings open, revealing four Turians from the Republic.
"Admiral Zorah, Admiral Raan. We need to move now..." the squad leader informs them, handing each of them a pistol. Tali and Raan accept the sidearms and follow the Turian squad down the corridor towards an awaiting shuttle in the open promenade. As they draw closer, five Federal soldiers open fire, taking down one of the Turians. The squad leader quickly drags the fallen Turian to a low wall, assessing his condition. A fatal shot to the temple. Swiftly, he removes any identifying markers from the fallen Turian. Meanwhile, Tali grabs the dead Turian's rifle and returns fire at the Federal soldiers.
"Time to move!" Tali commands, urging the group forward towards the waiting shuttle. As they approach, they witness three more Turians engaged in a firefight with a group of fifteen Federals. Boarding the shuttle, the pilot prepares for takeoff just as another Turian falls. The fallen soldier is hastily dragged onto the shuttle, and the doors seal shut. Inside the shuttle, a mix of emotions fills the air as they escape the immediate danger. The pilot starts the takeoff sequence, and the shuttle lifts off, carrying Tali, Raan, and the surviving Turians to safety.
Seated on the bench of the shuttle, Tali watches as the Turian squad leader desperately tries to save his fallen friend, who was struck in the chest by a few rounds from a Federal soldier. After a few moments, the Turian's movements cease, and the squad leader solemnly removes his fallen friend's identity tags and markers. The squad leader then turns his attention to Tali and Raan, offering some reassurance.
"We should be at base momentarily... It's too dangerous to leave the system now... The Chairman will get us out soon," the squad leader says, making his way towards the cockpit. Tali's gaze shifts back to the lifeless body of the fallen Turian. Another casualty of Shepard's War. She can't help but question the purpose behind it all. The war's priorities have shifted so many times that even Tali herself is unsure of why they continue to fight. From an insurgency to a rebellion, then a war for independence, and now a civil war. Shepard had promised stability and security long before the creation of the Federation, even before the Coalition. But now, the war has become a bewildering maze of confusion.
In Tali's mind, she suspects that this confusion is precisely what Shepard desires. Divide and conquer, creating a false sense of unity to seize power. Shepard has gained control through manipulation, threats, and corrupt practices - the very things she accused the Coalition of. As the shuttle door opens, a scene unfolds before them. A resistance force has emerged, or so she thinks, primarily composed of Turians with a few Quarians. It becomes evident that the Republic is now at war with this newly formed Federation. As Tali and Raan are escorted to GQ, they overhear a conversation between two Turians - the base commander and a female Turian displayed on a monitor screen. The clan markings indicate that she is likely Solona Vakarian, they can tell she is very tired.
Tali patiently waits alongside the Turian ground commander as they receive their new orders: stand down. Solona has been forced to align herself with the Federation, compelled by the imminent threat of Victus seizing her Capitol. In a matter of days, this will mark the end of the Turian Republic, now transitioning into member states of the Galactic Federation. Solona will step down from power to pave the way for the new Federal States to enter the union. Shepard has already issued an ultimatum to Primarch Victus: withdraw from Federal Space or face the full force of the Federal Military and the Alliance Remnant.
Once the Turian ground commander leaves, Tali and Raan approach the holographic image of a visibly exhausted Solona Vakarian. Tali waits for the former Turian leader, her mind unable to shake the thought that Shepard may have taken yet another life.
"Admirals... I apologize for what you just saw... Shepard wanted you out of the capital as soon as possible," Solona states, surprising both Tali and Raan.
"Yes, the notorious Shepard still seems to have a soft spot for you, Admiral Zorah... The nerve of that bastard to call me a tyrant," Solona remarks, her frustration evident as she looks at the two Admirals.
"... Shepard is willing to forgive your actions against the Federation if both you and Raan resign. I understand that this may not be the news you were hoping for. But trust me... When I received Shepard's warning and learned about what was going to happen... you will be allowed to live your lives as you wish. Shepard has no intention of imposing any restrictions on you. However, you will be required to abide by the laws of the new Federation," Solona explains, relaying Shepard's terms. Tali gazes at the weary Turian, realizing the toll that the war has taken on all of them.
Stepping around to face the Turian directly, she posed a question to Solona, the Turian leader.
"Have you given up, Solona?" Tali asked, her concern evident. Solona met the gaze of the Quarian and responded, acknowledging the limited options before them.
"I don't have much of a choice. I need the support of Federation forces. Without them, I would lose the Republic. With Shepard by my side, the Republic may still be at risk, but at least the people would be free," Solona explained, though Tali remained unconvinced.
"So, you're willing to give up, Chairman... Shepard may talk about creating a better and more secure society, but we both know she craves war. It's the only thing shes good at. Garrel let me know she refers to this Federation as her 'Empire'... Solona, Shepard is deceiving the people, the entire galaxy. We can't allow her to drag the galaxy down with her," Tali pleaded, her words directed at the younger Vakarian.
"...I am sorry, Admiral, but as long as I have Hierarchy forces on my planet, I must comply with Shepard's demands. Hopefully, one day, the people will see through her lies and seek change again. Tali, she dreams of peace. I cannot deny that. It's just that she imagines it differently... Like all of us, she's exhausted. In the end, Tali, she will win this time. We attempted to end her reign before it even began on Novaria... I recall you called for her assassination," Solona stated.
Raan, who had been silently observing their conversation, reminisced about the special session where the former Coalition leadership discussed Commander Jane Shepard and her fixation on battling a single Reaper and its puppet. They acknowledged the threat posed by the Reaper but believed it wasn't the immediate and primary danger to the galaxy.
Even Director Harper had grown tired of Shepard. Like Director Harper's father before her, she knew it was critical to put an end to the Shepard question once and for all. The question was not whether they should but how. It was Tali who proposed the unthinkable – killing the Savior of the Galaxy. The leadership was stunned by her words. One of Shepard's closest friends advocating for her death seemed almost inconceivable. Shepard was well-guarded by her loyal crew, particularly those devoted to her lover. With the elder Vakarian now watching her, they had to find a way to circumvent them. They believed they had found a solution, using the Novaria assault to their advantage. Director Harper hopefully found someone within Shepard's crew who could carry out the plan. However, when news arrived of the shadow's death instead of Shepard's, they realized their failure and had to proceed with caution. Ultimately, the outcome didn't matter. Shepard had won, at least for now. Yet, the war was far from over.