The Mass Relays were a network of routes that allowed for near-instantaneous interstellar travel. The Citadel races, a collection of alien species, had benefited greatly from the discovery of the relays, expanding their territories and building great empires.

That was until the Rachni Wars, when the Rachni, a species of intelligent space-faring insects were discovered in an unexplored relay. They were immediately hostile and quickly spread throughout the galaxy, swarming over dozens of planets and killing millions.

It wasn't until the introduction of the Krogan, another newly discovered race, into the conflict that the tide was turned, and the Rachni were wiped out. But the damage was already done. Fear now swept through the Citadel, and restrictions on activating any found dormant mass relays were put in place to prevent such a disaster from occurring again.

A deep-rooted isolated mentality followed suit, and the exploration and expansion of Citadel races were scaled back to almost nothing. Even though there were a handful of dormant and previously unexplored relays within Citadel space, they remained untouched out of fear of what lay on the other side.

For centuries the law was upheld, this isolationism allowing for the Citadel races to prosper without interference. And as a result, most had forgotten the fear from those early days.

And a spark of curiosity was ignited…

Unaware that it would set the galaxy ablaze.


"You can't be thinking of undoing thousands of years of policy like this!" Sparatus hissed. He glared at Valern from across the Council table, his mandibles twitching with annoyance. The Salarian councilor met his stare unflinchingly.

"Why not?" he replied. "The technology of our peoples has come a long way since the Rachni Wars. Our weapons and armor are stronger, and we have the fleets to match. Should another hostile race be discovered, we would be ready."

Sparatus scoffed and waved his hand in annoyance."That's not the point Valern." he retorted. "Activating a dormant relay is a massive risk, especially with no knowledge of what is on the other side! Who knows what might happen!"

"Then you would have us continue to stagnate?" Tevos asked, her tone gentle but firm. Sparatus looked at her. "We cannot remain in our bubble forever, or else our society will eventually collapse," she said.

She brought up her Omni-tool and several images appeared. They were of several different relays, all of them currently inactive. "These are a few of the dormant relays that have been discovered throughout the galaxy," Tevos explained. "If there are civilizations on the other end, we should extend an offer of peace and cooperation to them."

"And if they do not wish for peace?" Sparatus inquired. "What then? What if they are worse than the Rachni or the Krogan during their rebellious period?"

Tevos considered this. "In the event of an aggressive response, we as a united galactic force would meet it with equal aggression," she answered. She paused, her eyes glancing down at the images of the relays before meeting Sparatus's gaze. "But that is a worst-case scenario. We have to consider the positive outcomes, and how beneficial they could be in the long term."

The Turian councilor remained silent, considering Tevos's words. Eventually, he spoke. "So, what relay did you have in mind?"

Valern glanced at his Omni-tool, and a new image appeared. This one showed a mass relay in the middle of the Horsehead Nebula, more specifically the Pax

System. "This is the highest priority relay," he stated. "It leads directly into the heart of what we've dubbed the Exodus Cluster. We've theorized that there are at least two star systems on the other side. That's potentially dozens of worlds that are yet to be explored and colonized."

"That would be quite the discovery," Sparatus admitted. His mandibles twitched in thought. "Though, there is still the possibility of a civilization being present on the other side. It's a double-edged sword, and a huge risk to activate that relay. One that could either work to our advantage or disadvantage."

"True, but we can't let ourselves be crippled by fear," Tevos replied. "If there is a civilization in the Exodus Cluster, the benefits of establishing relations with them could lead to discoveries that could change the galaxy. We can't ignore that."

Sparatus sighed and slumped in his seat. He could see the wisdom in his fellow councilors' words, and in truth, he had to agree with them. They were at a crossroads, and a decision had to be made. One path led to further isolation from the wider universe, whilst the other held the potential to expand their influence.

And in the end, there was only one choice. "Very well." he conceded. "I can see the merits of activating the dormant relays. I agree to it."

Tevos and Valern nodded in approval. "Thank you, Sparatus." the Asari councilor said. "This will bring a new dawn to the Citadel."

"Now, we need to discuss the details of the operation," Valern interjected. He swiped on his Omni-tool and another hologram appeared, this time displaying a small fleet of ships. "I propose that we send a small task force through the relay when it's activated. Nothing too large or imposing. Just a couple of frigates and a flagship, to show that we are not a threat, but also that we are capable of defending ourselves should negotiations fall through."

"Agreed," Tevos replied. "Once the relay is activated, the fleet should make its way to the nearest system. Once there, the situation can be properly assessed and a course of action can be taken." She looked at the holographic display contemplatively. "We'll need the best ships and people the galaxy has to offer for this mission," she muttered. "A fleet that is a symbol of everything the Citadel races stand for, to make a good first impression if there is indeed a civilization on the other side of that relay."

"I doubt there will be a shortage of volunteers once word of the operation gets out." Valern quipped. "The chance to explore an untouched region of space is a dream come true for many. Though, that does raise the question of who should command the fleet."

Both of his fellow councilors were silent for a moment, considering the Salarian's words. The commander of the fleet would have to be someone capable, trustworthy, and have a stellar track record. Then, Tevos's eyes lit up as a name popped into her head.

"Matriarch Benezia," she stated, drawing the attention of the other councilors. "I believe that she would be an excellent choice for the task." Valern nodded in agreement. "A wise suggestion, Tevos."

"Resourceful, wise, and powerful. Yes, Matriarch Benezia is indeed an excellent candidate." Sparatus muttered. "Do you think she'll accept?"

"Of course," Tevos replied. "Such an opportunity would appeal to her. Besides, having a matriarch as the face of the Citadel will leave a good impression on any civilization that's on the other side of that relay and increase the chances of a peaceful first contact."

"It's settled then," Valern concluded. "As soon as Matriarch Benezia accepts the role, we'll begin the preparations for the operation." He shut off the holograms and looked at his fellow councilors. "We have much to do, so I suggest we get to it."

Sparatus and Tevos nodded and they stood up, ending the meeting. Tevos had been right, a new dawn was coming. One that would hopefully shape the future of the galaxy to come.


In the weeks that followed the announcement of the expedition, the galaxy went abuzz with excitement. While some were cautious or against it, a vast majority were supportive of the endeavor, seeing it as the beginning of a new era of discovery and expansion.

Thousands of people, both military and civilian, volunteered for the mission, hoping to get the chance to see the uncharted territories beyond the dormant relay. There were far too many to bring along, however, so only the very best were selected to join the expedition.

Turian, Asari, Salarian, Quarian, Volus, even a few Krogan and Batarians. A multi-species crew handpicked to represent the glory of the Citadel and to act as its ambassadors.

A Turian dreadnought and several Asari and Salarian, frigates and cruisers had been selected to transport the group to the Horsehead Nebula relay, which would then remotely activate the relay within the Exodus Cluster. From there, the fleet would enter the cluster and find the nearest system to investigate.

It was a sound plan, and the initial preparations had gone off without a hitch. Within a month, the fleet was ready to depart, and all that was needed was to give the order to launch.


Tali'Zorah nar Rayya stood outside the docking bay that housed the main vessel of the expedition. She glanced up at the ship, her eyes wide with awe. To be allowed on a Turian ship, let alone one as important as the Hierarchy's flagship, was an honor that her people rarely ever received.

The fact that she had been chosen to join the fleet was even more impressive. As a young quarian, the chances of her being picked to accompany the expedition were slim, especially considering that there were more experienced engineers who were likely to have applied. Yet here she was, about to step aboard the mighty ship and start the next stage of her pilgrimage.

"Well, this is it," she muttered, trying to build the courage to take the next step forward. "Just go in and find your station. Nice and simple. Just don't act nervous." Her heart was pounding in her chest and she swallowed to try and ease her anxiety. After a moment, she felt a tad calmer and made her way into the hangar, passing through a pair of blast doors and finding herself in a bustling maze of crates and cargo containers.

Workers were running back and forth, overseeing the last of the supplies being loaded onto the ship. Tali scanned the hangar for a friendly face but instead caught the eye of a stern-looking Turian officer who was overseeing the proceedings. He gestured her over and she obeyed, her stride quickening as she approached him.

"You lost, Quarian?" he asked. Tali shook her head. "No. I'm assigned to this ship." She quickly brought up her Omni-tool and brought up her transfer documents. The officer eyed the glowing holo screens before nodding his head. "Mmm...You're the new engineering recruit," he muttered. "Was wondering when you'd show up."

He gestured towards the ship and met her gaze. "Engineering deck is at the center of the ship, level twenty-seven," he told her. "Get yourself settled in and report to your station. The rest of the crew can help you out if you get lost." He turned away from her, his attention returning to the supply crates. Tali paused, and then quickly walked away, making her way up the loading ramp and boarding the ship.

"Level twenty-seven..." she murmured to herself as she wandered through the ship's interior. She took in her surroundings, marveling at the sheer scale of the ship. It was incredible, and she couldn't wait to get a look at its engine room. Unfortunately, that would have to wait. Right now, she had to find her post and await further orders. Hopefully, she'd be able to slip away once things had settled down a bit.

But where was the elevator? The ship was enormous and she had no idea where to go. Asking the crew was an option, but most of them were busy. She didn't want to distract them from their duties. If only the ship had a map or directory of some kind...

A hand suddenly rested on her shoulder. Tali yelped in surprise and spun around, only to find a grinning Turain. "First time on a dreadnaught, huh?" he inquired. Tali nodded, embarrassed at her reaction. "Y-Yes. Sorry, you startled me."

"No, I'm sorry." the Turian replied. "Didn't mean to scare you. You just looked a little lost." His mandibles twitched. "Need any help?"

"Um...well, yes actually," Tali responded. "I'm trying to find the elevator. Do you know where it is?"

"Sure do!" the Turian replied. "Come on, follow me." He began to walk, gesturing for her to follow. Tali fell into step beside him, glancing at him as they traversed the ship's corridors. "Thanks, by the way," she said. "For showing me the way, I mean. You're not the first Turian I've met, but you're certainly the friendliest."

"Hey, I'm a nice guy." the Turian retorted. "Just because a lot of my kind are uptight bastards, doesn't mean we all are." His mandibles widened in a grin. "My name's Garrus, by the way. Garrus Vakarian. What's yours?"

"Tali." the Quarian engineer replied. "Tali'Zorah nar Rayya, currently on my pilgrimage. You can just call me Tali."

"Alright, Tali," Garrus replied. "Pleasure to meet you." He paused. "So, what brings a Quarian like you on a ship like this?" he asked curiously.

Tali shrugged. "The same reason as everyone else on board," she stated. "The chance to see unexplored space, and to study new and unique technologies." Her eyes narrowed. "What about you? Were you already stationed on the dreadnaught, or did you volunteer to join the expedition?"

"Volunteered," Garrus responded. "Got sick and tired of C-Sec, and wanted something a bit more exciting. So when a spot on the THS Unconquerable came up, I jumped at the opportunity." They rounded a corner and arrived at the elevator. Garrus pressed the call button and the doors opened. The pair stepped inside, and Garrus turned to her.

"Level twenty-seven, right?" he asked. Tali nodded and Garrus pressed the button. The lift descended and they stood in silence for a moment.

"I can't imagine life on the Citadel being boring, especially if you're in C-Sec," Tali remarked, breaking the silence. Garrus chuckled. "You'd be surprised," he muttered. "The paperwork can get pretty tedious. And the politics involved are enough to drive a man mad."

Tali tilted her head. "I can sympathize," she replied. "Things on the flotilla can get pretty tense too. Not a lot of people enjoy being stuck on a cramped and crowded ship, so tempers can flare easily." She sighed. "It can get pretty depressing, honestly..."

She shook her head. "Anyway, do you think there'll be a civilization on the other side of that relay?" she asked. "Personally, I think the odds of that being the case are pretty high. But maybe that's just me being hopeful..."

Garrus shrugged. But before he could answer, the elevator dinged and the doors slid open. A Krogan in red armor stood waiting. "Move," he ordered. Tali and Garrus obliged, stepping out of the lift and allowing the Krogan to enter. As the doors closed behind him, "I heard they allowed a few Krogan on board." Tali muttered. "Never would have expected them to allow one on the flagship though."

"Well, Tail, I don't know if we'll find a civilization on the other side of that relay, but if they happen to be hostile, then I'm glad he's here," Garrus replied. He turned and looked at the Quarian. "Anyway, this is your stop. Was there anywhere else you needed to go?"

Tali shook her head. "Thank you, Garrus. For everything," she said. "I appreciate the help."

"Hey, don't mention it," Garrus replied. "Besides, I'm sure we'll meet again at some point." He gave her a quick nod, and then turned and made his way down the hall. Tali watched him leave, and then headed off in the opposite direction, making her way to her post. A smile crept across her face. Perhaps serving on a Turian ship wouldn't be so bad after all...


Making sure all her equipment was organized and ready, Liara breathed a sigh of relief. Though a tad inexperienced, she had been fortunate to have been given a position on the expedition, a sign of trust from her mother no doubt. Though it has been years since they had talked, and while the decision may not have been based on personal feelings, it was still a kind gesture on her part. No matter the case, Liara was excited and a bit anxious, in her hundred and six years of living, nothing of this scale had ever taken place, and to be a part of it was quite thrilling. Who knew what kind of Prothean discoveries awaited in the new system?

Perhaps another species had already made great strides in understanding the enigma that was the Protheans and would be willing to share their knowledge. The thought of a whole civilization that could have had extensive interactions with the ancient race was beyond exhilarating, and Liara had spent countless hours trying to calm her mind from racing.

"Exciting isn't it?"

Liara snapped out of her thoughts to the sound of an unfamiliar voice. Turning, her eyes were met with a friendly smile on the face of a Salarian, his eyes meeting hers and his stance relaxed.

"Apologies I didn't mean to startle you." The Salarian shifted his body, gesturing to a bench. "May I sit?" Liara nodded, and the scientist sat next to her, holding out his hand in greeting.

"Professor Solus. Mordin Solus. A pleasure to meet a fellow scientist onboard."

"L-likewise." Liara shook his hand and smiled at him. "Doctor Liara T'soni. A pleasure to meet you too, professor."

Mordin grinned and nodded. "Indeed! An exciting day! Looking forward to discovery. You are Matriarch Benezia's daughter, yes?"

Taken aback slightly, Liara's smile faded a bit and she nodded. "Uhm-yes. Did you know her?"

"Know of her," Mordin replied, his eyes gazing at the various equipment on the ship. "Has strong political views. Believes in expanding influence and power of Asari, a bit controversial, but interesting. Always fascinating to hear her speak. Knows how to rile a crowd, good quality to have in a leader."

Liara shifted uncomfortably. "Well...that is an accurate description of her. Though I can't say we agree on our world views. We haven't spoken in a long time." She admitted softly.

"Ah, that is unfortunate." Mordin looked at her apologetically. "Sorry to bring this up; did not know. Regardless, a pleasure to meet you. Looking forward to working with you."

"Likewise." Liara smiled back. "Are you excited to be going on this trip?"

"Very much so." Mordin grinned. "Exotic plant life and animals are a possibility. Chance to see undiscovered bacteria and diseases, to research and learn about. STG pushed for me to be a part of the science team, said experience would prove useful to them in the future." His grin widened. "Personal interest in new flora and fauna was also a driving factor, would have accepted regardless of STG backing. Personal interests always drive me. Will always be a researcher and scientist at heart."

"That's wonderful!" Liara said earnestly. "I can't wait to uncover any potential Prothean ruins or technology that's in the new system. Hopefully whoever is on the other side will be open to sharing their information with us." She mused aloud.

Mordin nodded. "Yes! Very exciting. Though hope is not the best tactic. Must prepare for the worst and hope for the best, in case relations with the unknown species are not friendly."

Liara frowned. "True. It would be a shame to discover a hostile alien race that's unwilling to cooperate, but I suppose we have to consider the possibility." She looked at the salarian. "Regardless, I look forward to working with you professor. Hopefully, there are wonders in the new system for the both of us to discover."

"Likewise doctor." Mordin stood up and smiled. "Will need to organize my own equipment now, good to meet you. Hope to talk soon." With a wave, the salarian was off, leaving Liara alone with her thoughts. Perhaps the journey ahead wouldn't be so lonely after all; it was a relief to know that a colleague had her back, even if they had just met. Breathing a sigh, she finished up organizing her station and prepared to begin the greatest expedition of her lifetime.


"All ships are reporting in. The crew is in position and standing by." Came the voice of the comm officer. Matriarch Benezia, Spectre Nihlus Kryik, and Drutus Photis the Turian captain of the THS Unconquerable, looked at one another and nodded in approval. They were finally ready to depart and begin their voyage into the unknown.

With seven of the galaxy's finest ships, eight if you counted the STG scout corvette that was to secretly tail the fleet and keep an eye on things from a safe distance, the mission was a complete success in terms of preparation and readiness.

One dreadnought, two cruisers, five frigates, and a single corvette, would make the journey through the relay, the fleet having begun to leave the Citadel docking bay.

Folding his hands behind his back, Drutus looked at the matriarch. "A historic moment is upon us, Matriarch shall we patch you through to the fleet? Everyone deserves to hear from the expedition's leader."

Nodding, Benezia folded her hands in front of her and cleared her throat. "Patch me through." She commanded, the comms officer giving a small nod to indicate that she was live.

"To the brave souls that have answered the Council's call, and are setting off on a mission of discovery, I wish to express the deepest gratitude on behalf of myself and the Council. Your courage and bravery are to be commended, and history will remember the names of the courageous few who dared to venture past the borders of known space, and bring glory to the civilizations of the galaxy." Pausing, she smiled. "Let us show the universe what the Citadel has to offer, and together, discover the wonders that await us in the unknown. For the good of all species, we go forth."

Cheers erupted on the bridge, and the various ships in the fleet. All were united under one purpose, and the goal of a better tomorrow.

"Well said." Nihlus praised, grinning at the Asari. "Short, sweet, and to the point. Exactly what the crew needs to hear. Spirits are high, and everyone is excited to begin the mission."

"Thank you, Nihlus. It's an honor to lead such a valiant crew." Benezia smiled, and the three of them returned to the view screen, the Citadel's relay coming into sight. Activating, the magnificent structure cast a blue glow onto the hull of the ships as each vessel, in turn, began to move towards the stream.

"History is being made," Drutus spoke softly, his eyes transfixed on the view of the mass relay. "May the spirits guide our journey." With a flash, the fleet was pulled into the void, and the expedition had officially begun.