Arrisa, an asari, held the weighty responsibility of being a diplomatic face for her people in galactic society. As a councilor, her role was far from easy—it demanded exceptional social skills, an in-depth understanding of foreign diplomatic interests and powers, and the ability to navigate the complex web of associated entities. The council, composed of the asari and the salarians, represented the founding members and leading polities of the galaxy. While there were associate members, they were not the current concern.

The Krogan however...

The Korgan posed a significant challenge. Their rapid expansion and explosive population growth raised diplomatic stakes, accompanied by veiled threats. Despite Arrisa's efforts to defuse tensions between the council and the krogan, the deep-rooted animosities spanning decades (or perhaps centuries) had spiraled out of control. The krogan had boldly occupied and annexed the asari world of Lusia. Which prompted a council response!

Now, within the council chamber, Arrisa awaited the Krogan representative alongside her colleague, Sizu.

The council chambers blended asari and salarian aesthetics, with each councilor customizing their seating and amenities. Arissa opted for a straightforward design; the weight of diplomatic tensions weighed heavily on her these days. Sizu, in contrast, adhered to salarian expectations, their formal attire adorned with visible clan markings.

Moments later, the Krogan representatives arrived—specifically, the Krogan overlord Kredak, accompanied by a few guards. While Kredak was known and respected within the Krogan empire, his presence wasn't as familiar within the council itself.

Why? Well, Kredak tended to be a solitary figure, likely due to the heightened tensions with other member nations of the council. With the annexation of Lusia, those tensions had multiplied tenfold.

Kredak, walked forth, clad in Mark III krogan armor, and carrying a striker assault rifle by his side. His guards were similarly equipped, if not better.

The krogan, unsurprisingly, are a martial race. Terms like "brute" and "savage" often appear in news feeds and media reports, but the krogan have grown accustomed to ignoring such labels.

So, upon his arrival, the absence of anticipated insults left him surprised and somewhat shocked.

"Kredak, welcome. We've convened to address critical issues stemming from your government's actions—the annexation of Lusia and other member nation worlds, along with heightened military readiness and defense spending," Arissa began, pausing to catch her breath. "While we recognize the krogans' need for habitable worlds to mitigate the impending famine within 20-30 years krogan time, the council deems your government's approach unacceptable."

Sizu, not to be outdone, chimed in. "The Salarian Union aligns with the Asari Republic's rebuke. Under the Dalatrasses' orders, we propose stricter immigration restrictions and additional trade sanctions against the empire." He typed on his keypad, verifying documents as he did so.

Kerdak dismissed their complaints and insults, not truly believing them, but still hurt by said words. After all, it was the council that initiated this situation—or at least that's how Kerdak and other krogan perceived it. The council granted them membership and a seat after their pivotal role in the rachni wars. Wasn't it only natural for them to expand and exercise the privileges of a council member? So why the outrage over their expansion, especially when they were practically encouraged to do so? And why blame them for their government's actions when the council itself isn't faultless?

Honestly, Kerdak found the council cumbersome—a restrictive, pacifistic regime. As an independent polity like the Krogan Empire, they faced limitations on military defense spending and bureaucratic red tape. Not to mention the toxic environment that was the Terminus. It was far from enjoyable.

The tension between the council and the empire might indeed be a contributing factor. However, Kerdak took a deep breath and addressed the matter directly. "Councilors, are you implying what I suspect? If so, you better be prepared for dire consequences."

Arissa's response was firm. "Kerdak, we are solely concerned with the increased hostility toward the council and the aggressive maneuvers near our borders. We request that your government cease these actions and relinquish control of the recently annexed world, Lusia." She smoothed the edges of her dress, her expression unwavering.

Sizu, still focused on his keypad, nodded in agreement.

"Councilors, I apologize, but I must discuss this matter with my government. But rest assured, we are as averse to the idea of war and further hostility as you are—perhaps even more so. However, our preparedness remains steadfast."

The empire's activity near your borders constitutes standard military procedures. And if I am correct, council law permits such actions. So why, then, am I under scrutiny from this governmental body?" Kerdak's tone grew stern.

"I find this accusation horrendous," Sizu interjected. "The council would never be so naive as to imply such crude fault-finding. It's common knowledge that the council and the empire have had strained relations for some time now. Naturally, the empire's military maneuvers near our borders raise concern. Both the Dallatrasses and I agree with the Asari's proposal to return annexed worlds to their previous holders."

Kerdak sighed in frustration, well aware of the High Chieftain's expectations: delay the council's response to their aggressive actions while continuing militarization. Kerdak sensed trouble; the council's persistent calls for de-escalation were veiled demands to comply with council law or face destruction. Their pacifistic language masked a harsh reality, and Kerdak felt it keenly.

"We cannot, in good conscience, return Lusia," Kerdak replied. "But we can reduce military exercises near the border." The councilors' displeasure was evident in their expressions. Kerdak knew what lay ahead: war—an event the empire had been preparing for, though the civilian populace likely remained unaware.

"Well, that is unpleasant. Kerdak, you leave us no choice. The Asari Republics officially declare war on the Krogan Empire." Arissa's voice carried sadness, her hope for a different outcome dashed. The Salarian councilor echoed her sentiment, officially declaring war.

Kerdak huffed, dismissed his guards, and stormed out of the chamber. Within a week, the empire followed suit, formally declaring war.

...

(Another place)

"Sir, the relay is ready to be activated," a Turian officer said, his voice tinged with excitement. Rex couldn't fault him; this was a momentous occasion.

The ship Rex was on was relatively new, featuring cutting-edge technology cobbled together by engineers on Tarterus—the world where the meeting had taken place. How he managed to get on this ship and be allowed to open a relay traced back to a few days ago during the meeting with the archon and other influential figures.

During Talia and Orion's discussion, the archon quietly approached Rex—an unexpected surprise given the archon's usual demeanor. Despite the archon's clear dislike for Rex, he had a mission suitable for him. Rex suspected it had to do with the Tripit brothers, and he was correct.

The archon possessed information about the Tripit brothers' whereabouts after their release—details that eluded Rex, who still believed they were on-world. Apparently, they had ventured beyond known space into the frontier, and Rex was to search for them.

Initially hesitant, Rex made excuses about just returning. But the archon saw through it; Rex just didn't want to do a favor for someone who clearly disliked him.