Rising from the Embers of Sera

by thehappy

The people of Sera rebuild, spreading to the stars. Wars will be waged. Peace will be sought. The Coalition has risen from the ashes to take their right to exist in the galaxy. They will survive...no matter the cost.

29. Chapter 28: New Alliance's

Well, It's been a month or two since the last update, but that's alright since it does take time to think things out anyway. I do appreciate those that continue to read and enjoy my work even if I'm slow with updates at the time. Not sure what else to talk about I suppose except if I should include a carnivorous insectoid race to throw into the galaxy haha.

Anyway, enjoy!

Chapter 28: New Alliance's

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Siltras System, Joreen 17th of Bloom, 428 A.E.

Four planets orbited the dim, ruddy red dwarf, the outer gas giant separated by a tumbling asteroid belt. Pale green with a dozen smaller moons, the surface of several moons were dotted with abandoned installations, the industrial prospects of the Asari long fallen into disuse.

Dirty, reddish hued engines burned past the gas giant, the spaceships a mottled mass of rough edges, welding, and uneven, mismatched sections from salvaged ships. Some were mere destroyers, the locust vessels a mismatch of repair. Escorting a former passenger yacht and several cargo vessels, the refurbished transports approached the planet of Joreen.

Brown and pale, Joreen was habitable, but definitely not a tropical paradise. A permanent haze of dust seemed to cloud the atmosphere while scrublands, deserts and sparse forests crowded the surface. Liquid water was present in the form of two landlocked seas, but they were entirely unappealing with the scourge of dust and grit.

The nearby moon was small enough to be hollowed out into an orbital station, something the Asari exploited years and years ago, only to abandon it once they decided the system wasn't worth maintaining.

Entering the churning atmosphere of brown clouds, errant wind storms and billowing sand, the transports landed in the center of a dust choked city, the buildings in such disrepair that some had fallen into crumbling ruin. Others still burned with electricity and power, the Vorcha clearly still inhabiting the structures as some slunk out, the yellow skinned creatures wearing various types of armor. Snarling with a hiss, many carried weapons as they took defensive positions, their aim at the landing transport despite the swirling dust storm that howled between the low slung structures and skeletal remains of industry.

Theron Commander Sharv slowly picked up the lancer rifle from the rack, the weapon fond among the locust due to its familiarity and simplicity. Placing it upon the back plate of his black and red armor, Sharv then reached for the newly developed Torque Rifle. A natural successor to the Torque Bow of centuries past, the munition's fired from the rifle would 'stick' to the target, then explode, creating a terrible mess.

Dark, crimson red with the cross of the locust emblem on its side, he made sure it was loaded and ready. Equipped with a scope and thermic capabilities if needed, the Torque Rifle was a natural counter to snipers of the galaxy.

But if Sharv was honest, he just wanted to see his enemies explode into paste. Grinning maliciously, Sharv then placed his helmet on his head, the protective gear matching his armor with deadly black and crimson red for the eyes. Sealing with a hiss of connecting seals, the helmet became locked, completing the menacing look of his armor.

Turning, he assessed the several thousand drones now gathered in the massive hangar bay, the soldiers each in heavy armors, their assorted rifles pressed to their chests. Some were without helmets, some still wore them while Grinders and Boomers were mixed in, their height easily to see among the dank, dour plating of the floor and walls.

There were no Berserkers yet as the females would be grown later, along with the Behemoths and Corpser's. Some drones would be grown for resource allocation, industry and tooling, some for war. A few would become scientists and engineers, building more of the growth vats for the empire.

As for the Vorcha? They would be used for bio-matter, labor, or genetic experiments as the species had the misfortune of being hated and dismissed by the entire galaxy.

"Even if the Seran's knew of us here, they would not care about the Vorcha in the slightest. Just…vermin to be used by the Locust Horde" Grinning behind his helmet, Sharv looked to a goggled technician near a side console.

"Open the door. Let us take this world" Voice a low rasp from behind the helmet, his troops heard anyway, some braying with joy at the prospect of conquest.

With a groan and grind, the cargo bay door opened, allowing Commander Sharv to step out into the dust and dry air.

The Vorcha defenders fired from doorways, ground transports, and several floors of the nearby buildings, their weapons spitting a mixture of blue and green mass accelerated projectiles.

"Take them! For the Empire!" Roaring as several blasts sizzled past his helmeted head, Sharv moved low and fast to the first vehicle on the left side of the road. Joined by the surge of drones spilling from the transport, several fell from deadly fire, but the majority pressed onward.

Rising from cover, Sharv was eager to try the Torque Rifle, and try it he did. Peering down the scope at a Vorcha exposing himself from a dusty alcove, Sharv fired, sending the munition to 'stick' against the Vorcha's chestpiece. Exploding a few seconds later, the alien burst like a ripe balloon of flesh, flinging tendrils across the nearby grit covered sidewalk as the battle raged.

"Hehehe…Grind…" Marching forward, the larger variant of locust hefted the multi-barreled weapon in conjunction with several Boomers. Erupting in reddish laser fire, the super heated blasts of energy cut down half a dozen Vorcha, not that it mattered with the locust pressing forward with extreme brutality. Chainsaws ripped into flesh, spewing gore across the dry ground while numerous Boomer grenades burst inside nearby storefronts, flinging fresh debris and body parts.

"Harvest everything and remember to take prisoners!" Rushing alongside of the wide roadway, Sharv moved into an abandoned building, its lobby half filled with sand and grit. Half buried furniture and desks lined the interior while a rear staircase led upwards.

"Follow" Voice harsh and rough, Sharv rushed up the stairs with several dozen drones, the warriors soon taking positions at the glassless windows. Not needing orders, they began firing at the building across the street, the enemy Vorcha having taken positions among the multiple floors.

Grinning behind his helmet as the red lenses practically glowed, Sharv lined up the next target with his Torgue Rifle. "Hehe…Slaughter" Pulling the trigger once more, the munition burned across the gap and struck a Vorcha in the left arm. Frantically trying to pull the unknown lump away, it was already too late as it burst, ripping the left chest cavity away in a gore strewn pop of flesh and bone.

Several drones then fired downward into the street from their elevated floor, cutting down more of the aliens in a harsh fusillade that saw them cry in agony and death. More locust then ran into the enemy building, the flashes of gunfire and bursting of grenades echoing as more ran past into the city.

"Remember, prisoners will be needed" Uttering the words, Sharv was pleased that the soldiers remembered, the troopers exiting the former Asari construct. Staying low along the line of buildings, the Theron Commander saw several Vorcha being captured, the aliens beaten into unconsciousness before being bound in restraints that glowed with sinister red.

They would be used for experiments on the new homeworld or as forced labor. The dead would be bio-mass, of that Sharv was certain.

"Hehehe…BOOOM!" Firing another grenade from his launcher, a Boomer marched forward with several dozen drones as the munition burst against the exterior wall of a squat store on the right, its burning neon lights flickering as debris and materials blew inward from the blast. Howls came from inside, but a few Vorcha still fought from the ruins, their rifles a howl a color's.

A drone ran up to the ravaged wall, joined by six more before the leader tossed in a fragmentation grenade. Bursting with a hail of shrapnel, another Vorcha screamed while another stumbled in shock, its long head of yellowed skin covered in red blood. Trying to turn upon the pile of store rubble, the alien didn't have a chance as the nearest drone rushed forward, his lancer churning with a scream. Plunging it into the shoulder of the wounded Vorcha, blood and sinew spewed, splattering the nearby rubble and broken glass in horrid gore.

"Come! Let us wage war!" The squad leader shouted with excitement as he rushed into the storefront, his lancer chattering as his troops followed to kill or capture.

Craning his head as the attack continued and the battle raged, Sharv reloaded his Torque Rifle and rushed low along the roadway, the cracking of laser fire and munitions more than pleasing as the Locust continued to conquer this backwater planet that nobody gave a damn about.

Taking a position behind a ground transports front end, he leaned out and acquired a new target down the long road. Firing, the Vorcha was reduced to past and future bio-matter. Waving his gloved hand, Sharv barely needed to utter the words. "Forward! For the Empire!" Leaving his cover, the Theron Commander pressed the attack as numerous fires began to erupt from battle damage, explosions and conflict.

Passing several Vorcha and locust corpses laying in the open, Sharv ignored the dead, seeking only subjugation and victory.

New Nexus, 28th of Bloom, 428 A.E.

Warmaster Carn was very pleased with the latest reports.

Sitting in his personal quarters near the bottom of the growing city, his sharp teeth showed in a grin as orange light fell upon his gray skin and blemishes. Picking up the datapad, he was sitting on the edge of his stone bed before continued to read.

"The establishment of new nests in the Kriseroi System is moving along rapidly with three of the planets now taken by the Empire. Unknown to the galaxy, they will become a strong system with which to wage war" Scrolling with a flick of his talon, Carn then read about the conquest of Joreen and the establishment of a new Nest below the surface. The Vorcha were already being used as labor or materials, the rapid breeding species well suited to ownership. A few dozen had already arrived here, much to the joy of Doctor Repan Nalu who promised a new variant of troop to wage war against the Coalition.

"The Coalition…" Setting down the tablet, Warmaster Carn clasped his hands, the claw tips scrapping his rough hide. "I doubt we could beat them even if we hid for a century. Too many troops and ships…too many worlds and defenses" He thought, his mind trying to think of possibilities for victory. "Allies? Perhaps those fanatical Toads? Salarians are too squishy and weak. Batarians? Perhaps…achieving a stalemate? Or recognition of territory?" He let out a rasp, the sound like falling gravel as the fate of the Locust was within his hands. "Even a stalemate will be extremely difficult to achieve. Staying hidden and growing our strength is our best option, but maybe something in the future will arise" Slowly nodding to himself, Carn knew the best chance for immediate survival was staying hidden among the galactic core. Trying to take Sera or any of the Coalition worlds would be foolish, and result in their second extinction.

"Yes…we will continue to hide and grow. Opportunity will favor the patient" Standing up, Carn exited the room, passing two heavily armed Theron Guards who quickly fell in step behind him as the seat of the Locust Empire continued to grow.

Porthea, Dagnes, 32nd of Bloom, 428 A.E.

The planet of Dagnes was turning into winter, or as much as the world experience winter…which just meant rain. Rain and more rain that fell upon the cratered ruins of the fallen cities. It sluiced and flowed over broken stone and ravaged devastation, the rainwater flowing into the massive maw of the dig site. Night had fallen, but the joint militaries made sure flood lights populated the area, especially around devastated city centers.

Thousands of marching boots echoed, the Terrans entering the sloped cavern while several Gears and Turians stood at the lip of the artificial entrance, their gazes hidden by the gloom and rain.

"Move to the side! Move to the side second battalion!" Commander John Shepard shouted as he marched in the center of his battalion, the troops angling near the tunnel wall lined with glowing electrical lights.

Gears started to march past, the men and women without helmets looking exhausted and haggard. Some sported fresh scars or cuts across their faces and numerous colors of hair sweaty and grimy, others burns. They cradled their lancer rifles near pockmarked chest pieces, the armor showing gouges and scratched, others bullet impacts.

Some even still had blood and gore dripping from their chainsaw bayonets.

"Oh look, the Terrans are here to save the day. Hope you don't shit your pants" A woman with purple hair mocked, her chin and lower lip scabbing over from a fresh cut.

"I'm so fucking relieved! Whatever would the COG do without the help of the Alliance?" Another joked, the two having fun.

"Watch the ground and pay attention to tremors. And don't surrender to them, you'll wish you had eaten a bullet instead" A helmeted Gear said in passing to Shepard, the commander taking the advice to heart.

"Don't try fighting a Behemoth with just rifles. You'll need heavy weapons to take that monster down" Another Gear told the passing Terrans before disappearing topside.

"Try getting a Lancer, Commander, you'll need it" Cradling an arm in a sling that was covered in burn bandages and Kelto ointment, the female Gear moved on with her comrades, letting the Terrans to continue downward into the depths of the planet…

Hours of marching in the low lighted darkness, following the directions of the Serans had finally brought the 2nd Battalion of the 3rd Regiment, 12th Division to a F.O.B. near the active front…or as much of a front that could be established in the winding tunnels, caves and fissures of the planet. Piles of supplies were stacked in the middle of the walled base protected by crackling laser fences. A first aid station was located in the center, the prefabricated structure staffed with several nurses and a lone doctor of Asari decent. Toward the rear of the base, several dozen Gears and a few Turians stood vigilant on a raised palisade, the edge equipped with twin machine guns that pointed at three distant tunnels illuminated with floodlights.

Snaps and echoing pops of gunfire filtered from the left connecting tunnel ahead, filled with explosions and howls.

Shepard was nervous, but he didn't show it as some of the troops lightly shifted their feet, many of them trying to hide their fear. Pushing his worries downward, John Shepard waved his hand forward. "Let's hustle, troops! Those Serans will tear into us if we just stand around!"

"Commander. The planned assault route has the Battalion moving through the center tunnel" Major Harrelson stated as the nine hundred troops hustled down the winding path, their shadows jouncing on the far wall. Bringing up his omni-tool, the captain showed the local maps given by the Serans, including the winding pathways beyond that had been mapped by pulsating resonator technology. "Once we reach this secondary fork, we can wheel our forces to the West and hit the locust between ourselves and the Serans currently engaged with them"

Studying it for a moment as the two men halted, John could see that it was a longer, winding route, but it would bring them into a higher elevation against the presumed locust based on the elevation markers. Stroking his rough stubble, Shepard knew it appeared sound, that the battle plan had been gone over in the past few days before deployment, but the locust abilities to burrow did worry him.

"They could easily dig right beneath us"

"We move cautiously. I don't want to be overeager and stumble into an ambush. The locust are not mindless beasts. The Turians and Serans have been down here fighting for months now and we're the rookies. They will use every trick they can think of" Ending the conversation, Shepard watched the battalion march past, the soldier finally joining them.

"Here we go…into the abyss" A random soldier uttered as the first men and women entered the central cave, the light low and ominous.

"Man, Dirkland, don't jinx us" Another groused as they walked, each holding their rifles tightly to their chests.

"I still think it's bullshit we're here. Why would the Prime Minister send a few divisions while Earth is still reeling under riots and civil unrest? I'd rather be doing that than be here" Private Dirkland said with mild annoyance, the soldier belonging to Baker Company rapidly disappearing with the rest of his unit.

Pausing for a moment at the entrance, Shepard had a horrid moment of foreboding and dread, especially with the kickup of battle nearby. Glancing Westward, he saw a fresh unit of Gears moving forward as the path split. Looking to the right, Alliance soldiers were marching, the final path to the right silent except for some light banter that echoed in the large chamber below the planet's surface.

The differences in armor and equipment were vastly apparent between the Gears and Alliance Soldiers. Blue tinted lights running over the shoulders glowed, the armor itself heavy with plate and kinetic barriers while the central Gear symbol decorated the chest piece of men and women alike. Nearly all carried lancer rifles, the weapons clean and oiled while the helmeted Serans marched in perfect unison. Some carried flamethrowers or larger weapons, meant to fight the larger variants of the horde.

It was a stark contrast to his own troops, their armor a mixture of white and blue, the material almost sheening despite the low lights of the cavern. The soldiers cradled Avenger rifles, the weapons a dull gray with a darker hand grip. Secondary arms included sniper rifles, shotguns or some SMG's scattered among the troops.

John Shepard kept walking, the commander going silent as the Second Battalion fully entered the gloom of the central tunnel, the walls craggy, crumbling and rife with veins of quartz that glowed pink and green.

Echoes of gunfire filtered around the Terrans, bouncing and reverberating off the cavern walls while several explosions made the ground tremble. Dust rained down from the ceiling, the hanging particles dancing as several soldiers turned on the flashlight attachments upon their helmets, the stabbing illumination wavering with each step.

More vibrations and trembles caused several of the soldiers to stumble and fall, alarm and curses rising from numerous throats.

"Keep steady!" A lieutenant yelled out, the man trying to keep order. Helping a soldier to her feet, he was knocked down by another terrible tremor that seemed to originate beneath their feet. Cracks started to form in the ground, the fissures widening rapidly behind Shepard. Falling against the cavern wall, he was horrified as several soldiers were swallowed whole by the widening sinkhole.

"Forward! Move forward!" Shepard yelled, the Commander's voice half lost among the startled screams and growing panic.

"It's the locust! They're doing this!" a random soldier shouted as he sprinted, only for a fresh hole to open up beneath his feet. Disappearing in an instant, his screams were lost as several more sinkholes opened, consuming more lives.

"Forward! Move Second Battalion!" John yelled once more, only to be pitched forward. Landing hard, he was horrified as a massive fissure opened before him, swallowing dozens of troops. Cutting across the entire width of the tunnel, John could see the half the battalion had made it past the sinkhole, the men and women urging their comrades to rush or jump.

'Crack!'

Looking backward at the hideous sound, another rupture had formed behind them all, essentially cutting Fox company off from the rest of the battalion. Unable to pick himself up as the ground tilted and pitched, John was present for the sudden sinking of the cavern floor. Feeling the sensation of plummeting, he barely had time to look upward at the horrified faces of the troops, each separated by a growing gulf that rapidly diminished.

Feeling weightless for several seconds, the former slab of cavern floor collapsed through the roof of another sprawling cave, the spilling rock and debris forming a dust cloud as they landed hard in the center. Now slightly tilted at an angle toward the left, the slab had come to rest on other piles of stone and subterranean formations.

"Ugh…." Groaning as he slowly picked himself up, John managed to reach his feet as the majority of the seventh company started to do the same. Taking a rapid assessment, John could see a wide cavern opening to the north, the outer edges sharp and glittering with quartz. Panning his gaze in a full three hundred sixty degrees, another glooming passage sat to the East, this one slender and taller, but still ominous with brutal darkness.

The groans and cries of several wounded snapped him back in moments, Shepard relieved to see the few combat medics attending to those that could be saved. Unfortunately, the crushed and broken bodies of at least twenty soldiers littered the floor, their weapons scattered randomly where they fell.

Remembering protocol, he activated comms in moments while shaking the cobwebs from his mind, the deaths pushed to the rear of his thoughts. "This is Commander Shepard of Second Battalion…attached to Fox company. There's been a cavern collapse and we need immediate extraction" Looking around, he felt fresh tremors, the cavern floor trembling in numerous spots as the ground started to sink and bow inwards. "Situation is extremely hostile!" Ending comms, he moved to a pile of rocks, the slab long and low that somehow created a half horse-shoe in the middle of the oblong cave. "Incoming locust! Take defensive positions!" Unslinging his Avenger rifle, John peeked over the rim of cover as the first emergence hole ruptured, spilling nearly a dozen drones like a rancid pustule.

'Terrans! Slaughter them!" A Theron Guard rasped as he pointed toward the stranded company with a clawed finger, the subterranean lifting a lancer rifle. Firing, the bullets snapped across the cave, smashing into an Alliance soldier. Kinetic Barriers flared, but the heavy rounds made short work of the energy shield and body armor, five rounds punching through the man's chest as he screamed with a collapse. Taking cover behind a pile of jutting stalagmites, the heavily armored Theron Guard was joined by half a dozen locust as they fired at the hasty human defensive line.

"Try to flank them!" John shouted out as he moved in a crouch, the N7 soldier walking along the line of rocks and low boulders. Laser rounds and bullets smashed above his head, the munitions occasionally finding a soldier who screamed in fresh pain. Coming to the end of the half horseshoe defensive line, John popped up, his eyes widening as five more emergence holes started to appear, the ground buckling. Looking behind him at the rear, two more groups of locust burst from the ground, the snarling horrors unleashing a full fledged hell.

"Commander! We're surrounded!" Captain Jervazik yelled as he slid into position next to John. Popping up to fire, his rifle spat blue bolts as he managed to cut down a drone.

"I realize that, Captain! Just keep fighting! Help is on the way!" Unslinging a grenade, John threw it toward a pile of rocks held by two drones, the bomblet bursting in a hail of shrapnel and body parts.

"Nice throw, Comm—"

The bullet tore into Jervazik's head as he rose to return fire at the drones, bursting the cranium like a horrid ballon that splattered across John's face.

Shepard stared for a moment, his mind compartmentalizing the loss before he popped up and fired into three locust drones that were trying to make their way forward, the unbroken ground creating a fresh hillock of debris.

He managed to kill two, but the third took cover as the monsters fired and fired, creating a hellscape.

"Fight! Fight or die!" A woman yelled, the soldier popping above the rubble as she fired, the female joined by her platoon. Nearby, a drone rushed forward toward a member of the 7th company, the lancer blades already spinning.

"No..NO!" Bringing up his Avenger rifle to block the chewing blades, the male screamed in terror as the larger locust brought more strength upon the Terran. Material howled and sparked before crimson spewed, the lancer teeth burrowing into Private Grondovitz with an extremely bloody result.

"Hehehe…slaughter…" Laughing at the kill, the blooded drone moved closer to the human defensive line, ducking behind a boulder as the Terrans tried to kill him. Of course, this allowed several more drones to move forward, the beasts bringing horrendous fire and grenades to burst among the humans.

Obviously, the Terrans didn't just sit there as they returned fire, their rifles spewing bolts of blue to burn into locust flesh.

"Hehehe…BOOM!" The explosive shell burst near two alliance soldiers, ripping them to pieces as the lumbering Boomer walked forward, the spent casing clattering to the ground. Trampling the gristle, the larger locust sported an evil grin while aiming once more.

A crackling snap of blew burned through the beast's head, ending it's rampage as it collapsed in death and spewing brain matter.

"Nice shot, Private!" Shepard congratulated the sniper, the female hunched down nearby.

"Thank you, sir!" Switching targets to a Grinder started to climb out of an emergence hole, Private Na'Bano continued to fight.

John shot two more charging drones trying to advance up the incline of stone and rock, the beasts folding from center mass shots while more of the locust took cover, the monsters taking a moment as the beleaguered company fought and fought.

"More incoming!" A soldier shouted from the Eastern side of the defensive circle, the rough and craggy rocks a nightmare for attackers and a small blessing for defenders.

"If you have time to point that out, Carinez, you can shoot your rifle!" Sergeant Brimgham yelled as the male hugged a large rock, then twisted and fired over the top at the locust. Bullets and laser blasts snapped past his head, a few finding another soldier who let out a blood curling scream, then feel silent.

More locust came from the North and South, the horrid beasts almost throwing themselves fanatically at the Terrans. Explosions, sprays of blood, ripping chainsaws and carnage filled the chamber as casualties mounted on both sides, the dead of terran and locust alike sprawled were they fell and died.

A woman screamed, her kinetic barriers and body armor riddled with punctures while a Kantus unleashed a fusillade into her chest. Falling with a struggle and gasp, the private fortunately died before the horrendous beast could do more.

The Terrans answered the death by killing the larger drone, the mass accelerated slugs ripping through the mandibles and upper chest of the priest.

"Tighten the line! Make them come to us!" John yelled out as he ducked down, then popped up to fire at more of the locust drones. He managed to kill one, adding to the pile of bodies his troopers were enacting. Still, he took a moment to study the company, and the losses were already horrendous.

Dozens upon Dozens of the unit were dead, barely a handful still wounded as the lone surviving medic tended to their injuries right behind John and the core defensive line. Cries of agony, gasps and moans came from the wounded among the battle, akin to hell. He wanted to try comms again, but knew that the call had already gone out.

Either relief would arrive in time, or they wouldn't.

A Terran screamed, the man pinned beneath the heavy bootheel of a drone who rasped with laughter. "Fear…uss…" Grabbing the left arm, the locust warrior pulled, ripping the limb from the socket in a spray of blood, screams and gristle.

"NO!" Watching his best friend die, Private Rico fired his Avenger rifle over the lip of rock, the mass accelerated rounds punching through the enemy's chest in a sizzle of burning hatred. "You fucking grubs!" Firing some more, Rico killed three more of the locust in a mad frenzy before being pulled back by Corporal Flores.

"Ace is dead, Rico! And if you do that again, so are you! Now use your damn head and kill some grubs!" Throwing a grenade, the auburn haired female managed a good toss as the bomblet burst among a small knot of reptilian soldiers taking cover fifteen yards away to the south of the line, spraying shrapnel and moments later, bits of locust body parts.

"Kill the inferior humans!" Pointing, a Kantus snarled while another grinder lumbered forward, the laser weapon howling to try and kill Rico and Flores of 4th squad.

The defensive line shrank some more, the drones pushing upward among the boulders, sharp rocks and the slope to the West now covered in corpses like a deadly carpet. A bullet cracked past John's head, an instinctive need to duck pushing him down for a second as other soldiers fought and fought.

"Slaughter!" the same Theron Guard bellowed, the beast emerging to fire upward along the slope. Bullets from the lancer rifle smashed into rock near John, the locust ducking behind cover once more.

"Na'Bano" Flinching as a grenade burst nearby with hailing splinters, John and the woman from Kenya stayed still for a moment as more locust rounds punched through the air. Heavy rounds ripped to the north and south, the battle for the high ground growing feverish as the Terrans fought with everything they had.

"Hehehe…Grind…." Ripping laser blasts came from the Eastern line, a duo of Grinders marching forward with the laser grinders spewing death and horror while more drones attacked with small arms and grenades. Some landed among the rough, craggy pile of rubble, bursting among the dead Terrans as second squad fired and fired.

"Sarge! There's too many!" Voiced laced with panic, Private Carinez was barely able to clamp down on his fear as more grenades burst among the dead, spewing ichor from the corpses. Flinching as laser bursts ripped against the rock, the green soldier from Mexico nearly pissed himself as another of the second squad screamed, the ripping of chainsaws a fate he was all too familiar with.

"Fire your weapon, Carinez! Unless you want the grubs to reach Earth!" Rushing low, the harsh Sergeant pressed himself next to the panicking solider, then popped out to fire his rifle. Hitting one of the Grinders in the heavy helmet, the barriers flared…then broke as the accelerated rounds burst through the helmet. Spewing gore, it only seemed to enrage the locust as they fired and tried to advance into the teeth of the Terran line. One of the brutal subterraneans simply grabbed the Laser Grinder, the drone snarling as fresh eruptions of red laser fire ripped into the Terran position.

Commander Shepard threw a grenade, the bomblet tumbling down the soft incline to burst among a cluster of advancing drones. Flesh was ripped by shrapnel, the howls of the wounded filling the air as the surviving men and women nearby quickly executed them with accurate fire. Moving along the length of cover, John tapped Na'Bano's shoulder while another Boomer explosive burst on the other side, flinging fresh shrapnel in a scream. His barriers took a small amount of damage, but it was inconsequential.

"Sir?" Staying low, the sniper was keeping a clamp on her fear, the adrenaline of survival keeping her in a state of a strange calm.

"The moment that Theron pops his head out, blow it off"

"Yes sir!" Moving low behind the natural barrier of stone to the northern end, Na'Bano found a small crevice, the perfect size for a sniper to peer through. Eyeing through the scope, the dark skinned and relatively attractive solider waited for her target.

She didn't have to wait long as John fired his Avenger rifle, the Commander joined by a few surviving soldiers that unleashed a fresh fusillade of mass accelerated slugs that burned an azure blue. Pausing as lancer fire and more advanced beams of light burned their way, Shepard and his fellow soldiers ducked below the ridge of rock, the material pockmarked and burnt.

"Finish the slaug—" Exploding in a terrible mist of bone fragments, brain matter and gore, the Theron Guard's head exploded as he tried to push his troops forward.

"Great shot!" Exchanging more rifle fire, the locust attack seemed to temporary falter, the drones having suffered at least fifty dead and another thirty wounded. Spotting a struggling drone limping toward a nearby boulder, John shot the beast, his Avenger rounds burning through the muscle and chest cavity to create another corpse upon the battlefield.

"Burn…" A stream of heated plasma came from the northern portion of the defensive line, the vile green energy washing over seven alliance soldiers as the locust drone marched forward, the creature's yellow eyes a sinister reflection of the horror unleashed. Accompanied by several drones that carried rifles, the gray skinned creatures shot the burning terran's, mercilessly gunning them down as their screams died in their ravaged throats.

Only one escaped by pure luck, the man howling from the horrific burns that ate at his armor like paper. Dragged to the shrinking central pocket, medical salve was rapidly applied to ease his suffering.

"Where did the locust get Toad tech!?" A woman yelled as she cowered behind a crumbling pile of rocks with the remnants of her broken 3rd platoon, the nine effectives firing at the determined horde.

"Doesn't matter! Kill that bastard!" Lieutenant Baker shouted as he popped up to fire with the last of his command. Flares of blue light burned downward among the piles of boulders and uneven ground, killing the plasma thrower and three more drones.

"I'm going to die here…" Private Heller told herself, the burning corpses of her former friends and comrades filling the air with the horrid stink of charred meat and flesh. Popping out, she fired at more of the grubs, but they seemed endless as they pushed harder and harder.

"MOVE IT GEARS! WE GOT GRUBS TO KILL!"

The sudden shout and emergence of heavy machine gun and rifle fire into the exposed flanks of the locust from the Eastern tunnel suddenly turned the tide of battle, drawing the attention of Commander Shepard and the shattered survivors of Fox Company.

"Retreat! Retreat!" A Kantus bellowed as he sprayed his Salarian SMG toward the Serans, only to be cut down by bullets and orange tinted tracers. The gunfire was horrendous as several Gears moved forward, sprinting toward several locust that tried to take cover among the field of outcrops and debris. Their lancers screamed with a tear of teeth, the drones caught flatfooted as gore and blood sprayed like rivers.

"Time to roast some grubs! Hell yeah!" Fire and napalm erupted from a helmeted soldier, the stream of heat washing over another dozen locust soldiers caught in the open. Consumed by fire, flesh melted and popped, the Serans not even waiting for the fiends to burn to death before being cut down by fresh riflefire.

"Remember Gears, the more we kill now, the less later!" A helmeted captain shouted as he walked forward, his company spreading out to bring horror and death to the locust. Idly cocking his helmeted head as a drone tired to crawl a few feet away, the Gear marched forward and crushed it without a care, the gore spattering his boots.

The locust rapidly retreated to the north, the sudden emergence of relief throwing them into disarray.

"Die you fucking grubs!" A helmeted female roared, her lancer roaring in a chainsaw duel that hissed sparks and screaming noise before howling against the drone's body armor…then flesh beneath. Ichor and blood sprayed across the Seran, but the woman didn't care as she immediately moved to cover, firing into the retreating locust forces.

John watched as a larger Seran walked forward, the obvious male wielding a long, six barreled weapon with a bulging energy pack that was attached to the rear. Spinning up in moments, the helmeted man actually laughed as bullets and searing lasers flew around him. "I got some fucking laser for ya!" Erupting in orangish, red fire, the new weaponized Laser Mulcher ripped through the air, the six barrels flaring in a burning light as he marched fire across the retreating locust line, cutting down nearly a dozen caught near the northern cavern entrance.

"Hell yeah, Ramirez! Pour it on those fuckers!" Another Gear shouted as he plunged his lancer into a half dead Kantus, the blades ripping with a sickening squelch of flesh.

"Commander…we're saved" Private Na'Bano said in an awed relief, the native of Kenya's voice filled with shock.

Slowly standing as the few surviving drones retreated into the darkness of Dagnes, John looked around, the man running a hand along his buzzed hair and scalp. His hand came away bloody, no doubt from Captain Jervazik bursting cranium that seemed like hours ago. Wiping it along the thigh of his N7 armor, John knew he was in command, and couldn't afford to break in front of the troops.

"Sir"

Looking at Lieutenant Baker, the man's helmet had been damaged by a close round, the faceplate shattered as his left eye was ruined by fragments. Other burns and close impacts decorated the man's armor…in fact, as John looked at the company, nearly all of the troops had varying wounds or armor damage by bullet impacts, burns, or abrasions. Some nursed wounds, others appeared fine, but the look of shock adorned most of them.

"Sir. I've taken a headcount. Seventeen effective, nine walking wounded and another dozen critical. They'll need to be carried"

"Thank you, Lieutenant. Get that eye looked at" Voice almost distant, John sat down on the nearest pile of rock, the Commander looking out at the piles of human and locust corpses. Some were shot, others burned or ripped to pieces, but they were all dead, frozen were they lay.

"A full company…reduced to barely a platoon in a single engagement" Clasping his hands, he was distinctly aware the Seran medics were assisting with the wounded.

"For what it's worth, you kept it together, Commander. Lesser men would've panicked against the horde. You and your soldiers…they fought like Seran's today" Standing nearby, the Gear wasn't even the captain, just a helmeted woman who was completely hidden by her helmet and armor.

"I thought your people didn't think much of Terrans?"

The Gear shrugged nonchalantly, the lancer rifle slightly rising with the motion as it was held in her hands, the bayonet dripping gore.

"Not really. But you and those soldiers of yours are a cut above, at least in my book" Walking away, the Gear was soon lost among the others, mixing in as the broken Fox company was relieved from the first day in hell.

John Shepard took point, his N7 armor pockmarked with several abrasions and light battle damage. The kinetic barrier was at full strength, but he had no idea when such damage occurred during the battle.

"Commander? Is this what it takes to earn the respect of Serans? Getting slaughtered in a hopeless situation against the locust?" The words came from Private Na'Bano, the female supporting one of the walking wounded whom had his leg swathed in medical gel and bandages that kept the wound closed.

John looked back at her, his facial features blank and composed while his mind compartmentalized the losses. "The Serans and for a greater extent the Coalition have an immense pride for their victory over the locust. It's rooted in their entire society, their history. In their eyes, anybody who faces the horde is worthy of respect. We survived…barely, but all of us now? We can proclaim to any Seran, anywhere that as Terrans we didn't run…we fought their ancestral enemies to nearly the last man" John allowed himself to look at the remnants of the company, the men and women walking tall…with purpose and pride despite everything that had occurred.

"Still sir…it was awful" The Kenyan said with her voice strained, the sniper still supporting the wounded man.

"Yes. Yes, it was" Continuing to march with the company, John Shepard led from the front, his face hiding the inner losses and mental hell.

A few of the nearby Gears gave them subtle nods, the Serans having created a safe passage to the rear while distant echoes of battle still cracked from distant tunnels.

Sera, New Ephyra 9th of Reap, 428 A.E.

Summer sunlight poured through the curving windows of Izabel's office, the beams of light falling upon the furniture, side bar and glass table in the center of the room. Numerous plants enjoyed the light, the foliage giving a pleasant aroma.

Dressed in a beige dress that halted below her knees, Izabel sat upon the right side of the long couch, the leader of the coalition flanked by Agent Keli, the young blue haired female chosen to ensure calmness in the guests.

That, and to share all intel gathered from this meeting.

Minister Ghevov had joined as well, the man mainly to advise about the extra burden this would place on the economy. After all, potentially bringing a new race into the Coalition could have far reaching effects.

Across from the three Serans sat Urdnot Wrex, the Krogan trying to portray a pleasant tone of body language. Flanked by Clanmaster Kult and Clanmaster Jarr, the two younger clan leaders showed numerous scars from their rise to power that still took decades. Colored with dark browns and a few splotches of yellow, Jarr also displayed a deep scar that traveled across his skull, the flesh pale from the old wound.

"Tell me Wrex, how is your coffee plantation faring?" Asking with a clear, crisp tone, Izabel already knew, and was fairly certain that Wrex knew that she knew. Still, she added a pleasant smile to go with the meeting with potential allies.

Urdnot gave a gruff snort, his larger eyes studying the three across from him. "Well. Very well. I have acquired enough wealth to purchase a second plot of land for a sugar plantation. I have workers and managers to oversee my property"

Jarr sneered, the Krogan looking to Wrex then the Chairman. "Enough of this idle talk. We are here to discuss the Krogan joining the Coalition, not the fortune of business for Wrex here. His story is one of thousands, hardly worth the words"

Izabel's body slightly shifted, her eyes barely flicking from the sudden rigidity that flashed across her features for a mere moment before being replaced by the calm, pleasant demeanor once more. "Of course. You three didn't travel across the galaxy for empty words and idle talk" Crossing her right leg over the left, she clasped hands together. "The Krogan, your species wish to join the Coalition as a full member. I assume you've researched the full implications of such action"

Wrex allowed himself a small grin, his large reptilian lips curling upward. "We share open borders. If you are at war, then we are at war. The Krogan will have a voice on numerous matters that will affect both of our species. Research will be shared with a few notable exceptions of critical technologies. Those are the main points. However, there are several things my people need"

Clanmaster Kult slapped his heavy palm against his knee, the armor thudding from the blow as the alien looked directly at Diaz. "We will join for the cure to the Genophage!"

"Calm yourself, brother!" Wrex snapped, the elder barking with a warning tone.

"An expected request. But if we were to assist in researching a cure, what would happen? You have no spare world's and a cure would just plunge Tuchanka into war due to overpopulation that would risk spilling into Seran territory. A repeat of the Krogan Rebellions would not benefit either of our species, nor the galaxy" Agent Keli said in a clipped, calm tone, the agent looking at the three Krogan.

"You dare deny our request!" Starting to stand, Jarr was visibly insulted, but silenced by Wrex, the Krogan having learned to be…diplomatic.

"What would you suggest, Chairman?" Studying the leader of the Coalition, the female had not flinched from Jarr's outburst.

"A modification. Let's be honest, your species can rapidly reproduce if left unchecked. But if our combined research could discover a means to eliminate the infant deaths while lowering the natural birth rate to a manageable level, the Krogan will prosper"

"You suggest reducing births from hundreds to a handful per female?" Jarr asked, the Krogan calming slowly.

"Yes, but the ones birthed will be carried to term. Your natural lifespans will ensure that your population will stabilize. Of course, the geneticists will have their work cut out for them to ensure that the current genophage is eliminated"

"A balance….it is possible?" Stroking his chin, Wrex knew that it was a far sight better than the current situation. The graveyards of the unborn haunted Tuchanka and ensuring they all lived, even with fewer births would be far more preferable. Looking straight at the Chairman, Wrex slowly narrowed his eyes. "It is something to discuss further"

"We also require planetary engineers to heal the homeworld! The radiation, the pollution, the immense devastation and nuclear winter is killing us just as badly as the genophage!" Kult said loudly, the Clanmaster making his point know.

"Silence! Or I'll do it for you!" Wrex once more said in a harsh, stern tone. Grunting with a low growl, he saw Minister Ghevov lift up a datapad. "He does have a point though. The Krogan homeworld is a ruin"

"There are several planetary engineering companies that could take on the task, but it is expensive. Expensive and time consuming. Bringing Tuchanka back to its former state before the nuclear war a millennia ago will potentially take several centuries. One hundred twenty years at the bare minimum, however far more likely to be accomplished in at least two to three hundred years. This doesn't even include revitalizing industry, food production, education, established government or culture" Ghevov set the datapad down and slid it to Wrex. "With the current war and efforts of reconstruction from the last conflict, the Coalition cannot be frivolous with finances" Accent thick, the man said his piece to the visitors.

"I am fully aware of our shortcomings" Growling, he looked at the Economic Minister. "However, I have seen firsthand the growth and fortune our people enjoy on Pandora. Young Krogan are learning trades, education…ways to earn without picking up a gun or becoming mercenaries"

Jarr interrupted suddenly, his voice full of pride. "A distant cousin of mine has been writing poetry, stories of the harshness of Pandora's jungles. A budding regrowth of long forgotten lore and culture for our people! Imagine that! A Krogan poet!" Closing his fist, Jarr's eyes brimmed with mounting joy at the story.

"If we can bring that prosperity to Tuchanka! To our species with the help of our Seran allies, the Krogan can rise from the ashes just as yours did centuries ago!" Kult rose, the Clanmaster bursting with purpose. "We have been forgotten, pushed to the side while facing a slow, dying extinction! I believe this will benefit our two people for centuries to come!"

Izabel uncrossed her legs, then slowly leaned forward, her gaze burning with extreme focus. "I happen to agree with your fervor and desire to see your people prosper. To survive" Her feminine tone took on a momentary hardness, the gaze studying Wrex. "Right now, the Krogan navy is a cobbled together force of barely one hundred ships, most controlled by half a dozen clans. It will fall upon my species to protect your borders, especially against Salarian aggression. Seems pretty one sided for supporting a new ally"

Urdnot gave a slow nod, the battle hardened Krogan slightly enjoying the dance of politics which he found odd after countless years fighting and killing.

"The contribution of troops will immediately show our support of our status within the Coalition. A proper naval force will take time, hell we don't even have a proper naval yard. Something we will build with Krogan steel and labor" Laughing, Wrex continued. "The Salarians have stepped in varren shit for their crimes against the galaxy. Plus…" Wrex leaned forward, his smile growing, almost getting nose to nose with the Chairman, the two having a political stare down. "There are many…many Krogan that wish to fight the locust. The ancestral enemy of the Serans will be a great foe to vanquish!" Laughing, the other clanmasters joined in, finding the sentiment true.

Chairman Diaz allowed herself a small predatory smile, the knowing smirk pulling at the corners of her mouth. "I think we can work with this. Keli, please pour some refreshments while we work out the main details with our brothers in arms"

Returning a krogan smile, Wrex and the other two Krogan knew that the Serans were desperate for allies, and they were desperate to survive. Of course, neither would admit to it even if both knew of the underlaying reasons for alliance.

Khar'shan, 12th of Reap, 428 A.E.

Several warships hung in high orbit of the Batarian homeworld, the loyalist vessels and crews diligently scanning and watching as the fifty warships of the Star Belt Nation slid closer to the orbital trade station. Most of the vessels on both sides revealed former damage among the hull, the repairs hasty and ugly to give them all a scarred look of haphazard design.

But neither side really cared about aesthetics at this point, only the coming dialogue and potential talks.

The station had seen better days as some sections were barely habitable or open to the harsh dark of space. Other sectors were in sore need of repair, but with the current cost of the civil war, workers and repair had been focused on keeping the main systems running…not aesthetics or a few old cargo holds.

Grand Shan Plebrin sat at the long end of the conference table, the room deep within the bowels of the station. No windows allowed stellar light to enter, only the artificial glow of electricity burned from several ceiling fixtures. The illumination cast Plebrin's green skin in a harsh glow, the Batarian's outfit inlaid with white and gold, befitting his status among the Hegemony as the supreme leader. Covered with several medals he had adorned himself, Plebrin knew it placated the simple masses during televised speeches. Flanked by several of his relatives that worked as advisors, he basked at the pinnacle of power he wielded, but still lusted to bring the Hegemony back to its former glory. Lightly narrowing his four eyes, he despised how far the Batarian race had fallen, but he hoped that these talks would at least bring some of that prestige back.

Opening with a low hiss, the door to the conference room opened, revealing three Batarians in black and red armor, the style rapidly adopted in the first months of the civil war.

"Chancellor Glar'kin. Thank you for meeting with myself and the Hegemony" Remaining seated, Plebrin studied the Batarian in the center of the group, the male missing one of his upper eyes due to a long scar that traveled upward to the curve of his skull. With a skin tone of dull brown, Glar'kin had a hard stare, the newly minted dictator having risen to power within the Star Belt Nation.

"Indeed" Taking a seat at the far end of the table, Glar'kin's medals gleamed and glinted under the artificial light, the awards for battle earned through conflict. Clasping his own hands while his two personal guards flanked to the sides of the room, Glar'kin studied the Grand Shan for a few more silent moments.

"Would you prefer a drink? Or a light meal before we start?" Plebrin inquired, but was quickly waved off.

"No. Let us bring an end to this civil war because as we both speak, Pod'neb and his democratic forces continue to claim territory with the support of the Coalition and their Toad lackeys. Our fighting has bled our naval and infantry forces dry while they advance and advance, claiming system after system. A cease fire along our current borders will be acceptable to my government along with full recognition"

Plebrin slowly nodded, the warlord and nepotist not exactly liking it, but the last few years of war had been draining beyond measure. While he would prefer crushing the Star Belt, he simply didn't have the ships or troops to overwhelm. In fact, the war had been in a stalemate for almost a year now, the border barely moving as planets or systems taken were quickly reconquered by the opposite side, only to be retaken a third time later.

Still, Grand Shan Plebrin didn't trust Glar'kin in the slightest, the brute's slavery tactics quite vile in persecution. Still, it was against the lower classes so the ruler of the Hegemony saw no issue ruling over the inferior caste.

"I would be willing to accept a cease fire and provide full recognition" Slowly tapping his long finger against the metallic table, the leader thought out loud. "Perhaps…in time we could provide each other with military aid? Or establish a defensive pact to deal with exterior threats such as Lorek or the System Alliance?"

Glar'kin allowed himself to nod slowly, the dictator reserved and mistrusting of the Grand Shan. Plebrin was a political hack who bought his way into the role of leadership surrounded by cronies and family that agreed with every statement and creed the Shan spouted. Ironically, he did respect Pod'neb for his numerous battle victories and leadership abilities despite following a path of stinking democracy. "It would be nice to secure fresh slaves from the Terrans. The Alliance dismisses us as a threat while they play overlord…their boots holding Batarian territory"

Plebrin allowed himself a small grin, the idea of humans in chains a wonderful prospect. "Any such effort would need to be planned carefully. The galaxy may not care about us now, but renewed piracy and slaver actions will draw renewed military action. I would suggest waiting for any potential raid despite the Terrans involved in the locust extermination. The conflict has resulted in greater mistrust and alertness among their border systems"

The overhead light flickered as the air recycled, the stale taste billowing among the group as Glar'kin lowly smiled. "A joint pirate force will take time to raise and equip. Let us make peace for now, show the galaxy we seek to rebuild while loading a new fist for enslavement and capture"

"Yes, to peace and the Batarian people"

With that, the warring parties continued to moderate the cease fire, the talks low and purposeful between the two that despised each other as their guards looked onward with hidden suspicions.

System AR-83, 73 light years from the Coalition system of Halo, 14th of Reap, 428 A.E.

While technically a piece of the Asari Republics given to the female species at the end of the last galactic conflict, the star system had still sat relatively unexplored, or even properly surveyed by the new claimants.

Rife with heavy radiation from the blood red star that angrily roiled in the center of the system, it pulsed out waves of stellar mass, winds and exotic elements that would make any chance of life impossible. A sickly green gas giant was the first planet in orbit, the celestial body constantly bleeding off its mass, then regaining it during its short, ninety day orbital trek. Comprised of vastly common helium, argon and hydrogen gases, it wasn't even a contender for gaseous extraction.

The next two worlds were just as inhospitable with one being an airless, radiation blasted rock while the third was a runaway greenhouse world that could make Venus look downright tropical. Tinted orange while acidic electrical storms wracked the poisonous atmosphere, the three worlds would remain uninhabited for years and years to come.

Gases and rumbling asteroids populated the fringes of the system, leading to a minor nebula that covered hundreds of light years.

Eight hundred and fifty three Salarian warships hid among the pulsating radiation and stellar gases, the vessels armor and shields more than enough to weather such inhospitable locations.

Comprised mostly of the 3rd Salarian Fleet, the collection of heavier warships had been ordered to bring war to the Coalition, to answer for the defeat of the second fleet several months ago. Obviously, the Salarian Union still reeled under violent protests, civil strife and even a few colonies breaking away while still trying to persecute a war without allies.

Fortunately, the Serans, Turians and System Alliance were preoccupied with defeating the locust on Dagnes and searching for locust infestations.

It was a thought that entered Captain Borrin's mind in a snap, the obvious state of the conflict worked not only in his thought process, but countless others.

Wearing a uniform of black and striped red, the outfit matched Borrin's natural shade of brown and white, which he found stylish in a small, pleasant way.

He commanded the Mash'ir, a destroyer barely three years old. Equipped with the latest technologies the Union could muster, Borrin was quite fond of his vessel, and the crew was efficient and effective in their duties.

Finding himself standing at the holo-table that was almost universal in every vessel known to the galaxy, his large black eyes blinked rapidly as the proposed military action played out.

A raid into Seran territory, striking the colony of Halo and any subsequent military targets. Seran civilian casualties were not a concern of Admiral Harbin. Overall, it was a simple plan, but Borrin felt a small pit of unease stirring, which was strange for the logical alien.

"The Border Sensor Array will detect us and the Coalition will move ships to intercept. The hope is to be gone before their navy can strike us"

It was a worry of himself and several of the ship commanders. Simply put, the territory of the Coalition was a black hole of intelligence. Yes, locations of worlds and colonies were known now, but the species build itself on back-ups, redundancies and keeping the locations of military assets unknown.

In simple terms, aside from the invasion forces of the 5th and 4th fleets over Dagnes, nobody knew where Serans fleets or squadrons lay. For all Borrin knew, there could be two full fleets of Seran warships waiting in orbit of Halo, ready to smash them to pieces. Or they could be patrolling the Klor'vian border. The fact that none of them knew was a horrendous state for military intelligence, something the Salarians had prided themselves on for centuries.

These facts only made his own personal reservations flare, as Captain Borrin knew that his people were responsible for this whole conflict. It was sickening in a way, but he had dedicated his life to military service, and he would carry out his duties to bring victory to the Union, even if the galaxy had turned their back on them.

Still a small voice spoke in his head, the tone small. "Maybe I should retire to Pandora. The planet is similar to Sur'kesh from what I hear and there's a Salarian colony far removed from the current war. I hear the Seran's leave them alone"

He lightly snorted, the idea foolish and laughable.

"Captain. Admiral Harbin has ordered for all vessels to make preparations to commence FTL jump in five minutes" the communications officer reported in sharp, rapid speak.

"Understood. Prepare for jump" giving the order, Captain Borrin retook his seat, the officers chair slender and fitting for his frame.

Of course, he knew that even at maximum jump speeds, it would still take over two days to cross the border and commence the operation.

The minutes ticked by as the Salarian warships reoriented themselves, aiming for the colony of Halo and either success or doom.

In a flash of staggering lights, the third fleet jumped to FTL, the warships eager for battle and to put a dent into Seran superiority.

Halo System, 16th of Reap, 428 A.E.

The former system of Glortha, renamed by the victorious Serans years ago had foreseen a vast increase in industry, habitation, and defense over the last half decade. Orbital factories had been constructed among the inner asteroid belt, the draw of new riches and opportunities bringing thousands upon thousands of Seran settlers. Gas extractors were in low orbit of the outer gas giants, pulling helium, hydrogen, and acetylene for industrial applications across the system.

Halo itself had seen a burgeoning growth, the global population rapidly climbing to a quarter million that settled along the islands of the Halo oceanic ring, or the lone continent.

Obviously, the Coalition had learned a harsh lesson from the last war, the military ensuring that the Hammer of Dawn defense system was online and capable of providing firepower to defend the new colony and her citizens.

In fact, no new world was to be settled until proper defenses were in place.

Obviously, when the border was breached by the Salarian fleet hours ago, the alarm rippled across the Coalition, including the Halo system.

Mandatory evacuations were ordered of all orbital facilities while ground side bunkers opened across the planet for the population.

Alarms blared across the city of New Cortana, the bayside capital of thirty thousand wedged between two mountains and heavy jungle among the equator of the singular continent. Constructed with colonial beauty of white buildings mixed with Seran gothic designs, the capital was bursting with open spaces, parks, and resplendent apartment structures that were covered in falling gardens. Among the base of the Western mountains was the planetary spaceport, that while minor, flared with activity from the hasty evacuees from the nearby asteroid facilities.

Orderly columns of civilians either walked, drove, or took transports into the Eastern Mountains, the subterranean bunkers dug out of the earth to provide more than enough room for a hundred thousand if needed.

Of course, the Coalition wouldn't put the survival of a whole colony in one location. Dozens of such bunkers dotted the planet, each drawing in civilians from assigned sectors across the planet.

"This is not a drill. All civilians are to evacuate to the nearest bunker by mandatory decree of the Coalition. Repeat, This is not a drill…" Repeating on a loop across radio, the local internet, and all forms of media, the warning went out to the population.

Gears stood along the evacuation route, the men and women watching the line of civilians move with haste and thankfully, orderly conduct.

A woman tripped, but was quickly picked up by her husband as the three's children moved along with the family dog and only what they could carry.

Buses snaked along the evacuation road, wedged between civilian vehicles toward the awning darkness of the open bunker door.

"Stay orderly and follow instructions! Take only what you can carry! Food, medical supplies and sleeping quarters will be provided for all! Violence will not be tolerated!" A helmeted man shouted, the Gear watching the column of civilians enter the mountain. Behind him, dug in defenses for the soldiers had been carved into the upper reaches of the mountain in case of ground assault. Manned with the newly acquired Laser Grinders to provide interlocking fields of fire, it was only one of the weapons to be wielded by the Gears for they had orders to fight to the last, and they would if needed.

Rear Admiral Jayde Strand watched with a predatory gaze as the Salarian Fleet dropped out of FTL a few million miles from the planet of Halo, the sensor display bleeding red as hundreds of enemy warships appeared like a blotch of blood.

Having been promoted from her stunning victory at Reach years ago, and numerous minor engagements in the last year of the war, she knew that eventually, she would command a full fleet.

But for now, she commanded half the sixth fleet from the might of her Dreadnaught, Firestorm. Somedays she did miss the Ganil Sea, but her Dreadnaught could bring far more firepower and destruction to the Coalition's enemies…along with the other five hundred and twenty three warships burning toward Halo.

Leaning over the table as several green bangs fell forward, Jayde Strand's mind was filled with the coming battle.

A low shout came from a young man nearby, the dark haired male overviewing the full tactical display. "Ma'am! The Hammer of Dawn has commenced firing at the Salarian fleet! They are targeting the H.O.D. satellites and bombarding urban centers! Several dozen of their warships have broken off to commence destruction of asteroid belt habitats!"

"What about the evacuation?"

This time a woman spoke from comms, the slim redhead looking her way with her hair tied in a tight bun. Her uniform was dark black with gold, a matching state among the crew as the bridge scrambled with incoming data.

"Eighty seven percent complete across the colony!"

"Better than being caught unaware" Pursing her lips before crossing her legs, Strand knew more would die in the coming hour, but it was preferable over the massive losses of the war. "Still, what are the Salarian's trying to accomplish by attacking such a minor colony? Revenge? A simple raid to sow destruction and chaos? Their reasons don't matter, only destroying the enemy"

"Ma'am! Firing range in thirty seconds!" Weapons said in a stern shout, the officer seated nearby at his battle station.

"Then let's make them regret their lives. All ships are to fire at will!"

Mash'ir fired her M.A.C. The ship length weapon flaring with an eruption of materials at the aperture. Flaring outward in a flash of light, the streaking mass of metal smashed against the failing shields of the orbital refinery. Joined by six other vessels, the strike force was tearing through the industrial belt of the asteroid field, firing at anything and everything the Coalition owned.

Three more consecutive shots finished the job, rending the instillation uninhabitable as the hull plating buckled and ripped. Explosions wracked the facility, spewing debris and ruin, but no bodies.

"Captain. Facility destroyed. Reports from the raiding force place another fifteen facilities destroyed and nine severely damaged" A crewman informed Captain Borrin, the Salarian's mood grim as he studied the overall system display.

The Seran's had been nearby, which was the only explanation as to how five hundred of their warships were already in the system. Numerically, the Union had the advantage of numbers, but the Salarian's didn't focus on heavy battle lines or vessels capable of taking heavy punishment. Odds were, the Coalition Navy would win the day, especially with the coming reports of battle and fusion detonations occurring above the planet of Halo.

"Captain! Orders from Admiral Harbin are to retreat immediately!" The same Salarian shouted in rapid tones, the officer blinking rapidly as data and communications flowed across his display.

"Then retreat. Input coordinates for the rendezvous location" Not willing to be left behind to face the hell of Seran firepower, the Mash'ir began to angle toward the proper vectors, the warship joined by dozens of others. Snapping into FTL in moments, the raiding force abandoned the fight.

Dozens of Coalition vessels flickered and glowed, the effects of plasma weaponry and warheads prevalent among the battle line of wounded and destroyed warships. Bodies of deceased crew floated, the biomass already frozen in the coldness of vacuum.

Flashes of thermic lance fire, Mass Accelerated shells, and the burning oranges of the Hammer of Dawn ripped through the darkness, claiming several more Salarian destroyers and frigates as the vessels were burned away or simply smashed into flotsam. Debris fields began to float and separate above Halo, the stunning world once again the site of war.

Twin beams of light flared from the aperture of Firestorm, the Dreadnaught targeting the enemy dreadnaught. One managed to skim along the Salarian hull, causing shields to flicker and underlaying hull to heat to terrible levels. Returning fire with developed Klor'vian plasma weaponry, the sickly green beam sliced through the void, barely missing the flagship only to rip a destroyer in half with horrific results. Starting to turn, Admiral Harbin would not risk his force in a pointless battle, especially within Coalition territory.

"Ma'am! The Salarian's are retreating!"

"Then keep firing! They brought this on themselves!" Snapping at the young officer, Jayde Strand felt the vibrations through the deck as Firestorm turned, her main weapon glowing once more. Firing, the twin beams struck the enemy dreadnaught, the lances of fire ripping away several upper decks in a searing passage that left air and vapor leaking.

Dozens of fusion warheads detonated around the vessel, consuming four escorts just as the engines flared. Jumping to FTL in haste, the aliens retreated, leaving eighty seven dead warships in their wake and another dozen too crippled to escape. For the Coalition, thirty two warships had died, another twenty seven damaged to varying degrees.

"Ma'am. Do we pursue?"

Rear Admiral Jayde Strand smiled, her visage of a predator slightly unnerving as her gaze fell upon the glowing vessels of both sides, their wake of destruction littering the void around Halo as the planet slowly turned beyond. "Of course. Leave the most critically damaged ships and inform the rest of the fleet of our actions. We will hunt them down and make them pay for their arrogance" Stating her intent, several of the officers grinned, pleased with the fact that the Salarians would not get off so easy.

Algorithms and predictive travel paths were uploaded to the fleet, giving the Serans the most likely journey of their enemies. In another few minutes, hundreds of slip-space drives tore holes in the universe, the Coalition in pursuit.

The Citadel. Zakera Ward, 18th of Reap, 428 A.E.

Numerous shops and stores blazed with neon lights, their wares sold by a platitude of Volus merchants. A few Salarian stores were also open, but with the current state of the Union and mistrust, several of them were scrutinized with suspicion or in a few cases, outright hostility and vandalism. Still, most had elected to stay on the Citadel despite their loss of status as they had invested countless credits and years into their businesses, homes, and careers.

Plus, it was far safer than venturing into the political upheaval and warzone of the Union.

The throngs of civilians passed by the rows of stores, the area opening into a wider plaza that held several restaurants and drinking establishments. Being mid-day on the Citadel, most customers had stayed away from alcoholic beverages, but that wasn't true for all as recent arrivals to the massive station enjoyed a Terran beer or a cosmic cocktail.

Numerous wall screens glowed and flicked with advertisements or entertainment programs, the products intended for a wide range of customers from Asari clothing, Turian dextro ales or surprisingly, Terran cheeses that had grown quite popular among the Krogan. Apparently, melted cheeses that covered grilled meats was quite delicious to the reptilian palate.

Suddenly, the numerous viewscreens blared with the news as the familiar visage of Bea Ja'tol took over, the Asari reporter and famous newscaster beautiful and pristine with a shimmering dress of form hugging purple. Allowing a modicum of cleavage to be shown, her smile brightened the airwaves as she looked at the camera.

"Hello, I'm Bea Ja'tol for the Citadel News Network and today I bring you breaking news from across the galaxy" Her face turned grim, portraying unpleasant news before she even spoke. "Salarian raiders attacked the colony of Halo yesterday, destroying the cities of New Cortana, Mangrove City, Ashton and Crysa Lake. Evacuations prevented loss of significant life as civilian casualties were only around two Military casualties on both sides reached approximately fifty thousand, however, that number is expected to rise as Coalition forces continue to pursue and attack the raiding force. It was only through the advanced warning of the Border Sensor Array that the loss of innocent life was kept to a minimum among the colony" Retaking a breath, Bea kept her expression blank and serious. "Reports from Dagnes have System Alliance forces in several heavy battles with locust troops with some units suffering over seventy percent casualty rates. A Commander John Shepard is expected to be awarded the Sol Starburst for his bravery in one of the first alliance actions against the horde, the highest military honor to be given among Terran military personnel. This comes on the news from Turian and Seran military intelligence claiming over sixty eight percent of the planet's locust tunnels have been cleared and secured. It is only a matter of time before Dagnes is once again devoid of locust infestation. Of course, this is only the first step as naval forces continue to search and assess nearby star systems for locust forces" For a brief moment, the Asari's mood brightened as she folded her hands, the fingers intertwining.

"Several breakthroughs from the diplomatic front as the Coalition and the newly minted 'United Clans of Tuchanka' signed a treaty several days ago, bringing the Krogan into the Coalition as a full member state with equal sentient rights. Here's a video clip of the signing from Sera"

For a brief moment, the multiple screens went black, drawing the apt attention of patrons and civilians from half a dozen worlds.

Fluttering in a light breeze among the built up Embry Square of New Ephyra, the Coalition flag flew among numerous Krogan and Serans standing on a raised platform. Chairman Diaz stood with her party, the well known leader dressed in black and trimmed gold while a few ministers and high ranking officers stood at her side. Opposite were the Krogan, mainly Urdnot Wrex with clanmasters Jarr and Kult, the three in their finest armors. Leaning forward, Wrex signed the document upheld on a pedestal of glass, the sunlight passing through like a prism. Rapidly followed by Jarr and Kult, the three Krogan kept it calm, but smiles hinted at their reptilian mouths.

Following with her own signature, along with the nearby ministers and officers, Chairman Diaz then approached, extending her slim, but firm hand as a breeze lightly ruffled her dark hair. "The Seran people welcome the United Krogan Clans into the Coalition. May our two peoples prosper in these troubling times consuming the galaxy"

Wrex grinned, the large, battle scarred Krogan taking the extended palm, his size overcoming hers like a baseball mitt. "A new day will dawn for the Krogan. We will wage war along side the Serans. Rebuild our species and retake a place among the powers of the galaxy"

Flashes of cameras and roiling cheers flowed among Embry Square, formalizing the treaty.

"They actually did it. The Serans and Krogan actually signed a treaty" A standing Turian uttered who had paused on his shopping trip among the commerce sector.

"A terrible mistake. The Krogan and Serans cannot be trusted" A Salarian uttered, the males voice low as to not draw too much attention.

"Says the criminal that revived the locust" Nearly spitting the words, the Turian moved on, leaving the Salarian alone.

The news continued, drawing more attention to the passing shoppers.

"Meanwhile, The Star Belt Nation and Batarian Hegemony have signed a cease fire, recognizing new borders and the independence of the S.B.N. Both sides have proclaimed a desire to focus on reconstruction, industry, and assisting those displaced by the years long civil war. The Democratic System of Lorek was not included in the negotiations and a state of hostility still exists between the D.S.L. and other Batarian factions" Finally breathing a sigh of relief, Bea allowed herself an award winning smile.

"In more pleasant news, Asari adoptions of 'kittens' from Sera and Terra have skyrocketed as the adorable little pets have become a sought after companion among Asari for their playfulness, soft fur and antics…"

System CG-175-A3 Coalition Space, 20th of Reap, 428 A.E.

The star system was nothing special. Four dead, lifeless planets circled an angry, violent star, its solar winds and matter blasting the first world in horrific radiation and heat that made mineral exploitation problematic at best. The next two were toxic, shrouded worlds that were under the constant storms of acid rain, three hundred mile winds, and less friendly elements.

However, the fourth world was stable in terms of no atmosphere, the planet having a gravity field close to a standard G.

It was here that several weapon testing laboratories had been established, the majority of the facilities buried beneath the surface.

Flashes of red, laser fire ripped across the uneven, broken landscape of airless night, the pulses of weapons fire disappearing toward erected targets.

Eighteen men and women kneeled or lay prone among the dark soil, the Onyx Gears in full black battle attire. Even their lenses were black, a deepening darkness that reflected each shot from the Lancer Mk. IV as the aperture's erupted in fire.

A kneeling female Gear ran empty, the elite soldier pulling a small fusion pack half the size of her gloved palm from her ammo belt. Switching out the spent, square cartridge, the new one gave a small click as it was locked in, allowing the soldier to continue her firing at the distant targets.

With silence among them, the platoon of Gears continued to fire and test the new rifle that would soon begin filtering into the armed infantry forces.

Sera, 21st of Reap, 428 A.E.

Once again, Izabel Diaz was below ground, the bunker below her public office filled with officers and advisors. As something new, there were two Krogan joining the meeting as well, males from the clans of Jark and Carvve.

"General Armicore" Saying the name as she looked toward the forty six year old officer, the blue haired soldier was quick to speak. "Several divisions of infantry are being assembled in response to the Salarian raid against Halo. For the majority of this conflict we have focused on the locust infestation of Dagnes, but we will respond to this attack by striking these three Salaria systems that border the Krogan DMZ"

"Clan Jark and Carvve will provide no less than twenty five thousand warriors to take these systems from the dishonorable Salarians. Extending our borders will be a first step to paying them back for the Genophage!" Clearly angry, Carvve slammed his fist upon the table, the Krogan emphasizing the desire to wage war against their enemies.

"Clearly. They will be ceded to the Krogan upon a cease fire" Giving a small nod with her head, Izabel wanted a continuation of the briefing.

"We believe we have located a new locust nest at Gorfin. The system has gone completely dark and while the Salarians have instigated a communication black out across large swaths of their territory, there were distress calls for several hours before communications ceased. It is several months old, falling in line with when things went bad at Dagnes"

"Then we attack the system. If locust are there, we will clear out the infestation of this revived scourge" Pursing her lips, Izabel didn't need to give any other commands, knowing the Coalition war machine would handle the vile creatures.

A man cleared his throat, his outfit a boring, civilian attire of black pants, a brown vest and underlaying white shirt. Balding with a crown of hair on both sides, he lightly pushed up his glasses. "As I'm sure you're all aware, the locust managed to develop laser grinders using Salarian technology. We have successfully minimized the technology for use in the in the Lancer Mark Four. The new rifle is lighter in weight, but still very robust for the rigors of any environment including zero-g and vacuum. Current fusion packs can allow a soldier to fire three hundred 'rounds' for lack of a better term. This will of course increase the firepower of our soldiers when the weapon is moved for main line dispersal"

"The mark three has served the Coalition for centuries, but it is time to give our Gears the proper means to fight the Coalitions enemies" Clasping her hands in an intertwine of her fingers, she looked toward the two Krogan. "It will take time for our new allies to be equipped with the new rifles. However, the Mark Three is still viable for use if the U.C.K. wishes to take the coming surplus"

"Many Krogan will take them" Carvve uttered, the large alien leaning forward, his reptilian gaze growing excited. "Facing the locust will be an honor among our Seran brothers in arms"

"Very well. Now how is the colony of Halo faring?" Waiting for the report, Chairman Diaz listened as the session continued below the streets of New Ephyra.

The Citadel Council, 21st of Reap, 428 A.E.

Ambassador Almstead sat in his office, the hum of vehicles flying past a minimal distraction. Ferns and several flowers added an earthy tone to the ambassadorial office, along with numerous paintings of warships, planets, and landscapes that could be found across the Coalition. Seated in a rough circle around a low coffee table were Councilor's Kojima, Tevos and Sparatus. Several glasses of refreshments sat upon the table, along with a minor bowl of snacks, but neither had been touched yet.

"I believe the time is necessary to dispose of political rhetoric, pointed fingers and mistrust caused by recent events" Tevos spoke primly, the Asari seated next to the Ichika Kojima of Terra.

"Agreed. While this is informal, I want to stress the importance of continued respect, trade and dealings between the Coalition and the Council" Almstead emphasized before finally taking a small sip of his blue tinted beverage.

Sparatus sat rigidly still, his white facial markings mixing with his silver eyes. "The Turian Hierarchy will continue to work on joint military campaigns with the Coalition and her recent allies against the locust horde. However, we are not in a state of war with the Salarian Union. But with your recent alliance of the Krogan, I'm positive that will not be an issue"

Kojima stirred, the female leaning slightly forward. "What are the Coalition's war goals against the S.U?"

Almstead replied quickly, the man momentarily distracted by the vibration of a large freighter beyond the office walls. "As far as I'm aware, breaking their will to fight through naval attrition. Plans to invade Sur'kesh or other core worlds are off the table since it's believed that will be more trouble than it's worth. Locust extermination is still the priority"

"The System's Alliance is still willing to participate in the extermination due to our new roles among the galaxy, but the recent military losses have been…heavy. I believe most of our focus should be on peace keeping efforts, especially now that the Batarian's have stopped killing each other…mostly. Trusting them would be foolish"

"That would be ideal, Kojima. While I understand some units distinguished themselves, most of your units suffered horrendously and let's be honest, Terra and her colonies have little stomach for thousands of war dead on some backwater colony across the galaxy. The Coalition will continue to eradicate the Locust even if it takes another twenty years. We will not allow them to survive" Snorting, the man watched as Tevos sipped her drink. "Unless some galactic level extinction event were to occur. But even then, that would be a bitter pill to swallow. Peace with the locust. Ludicrous" Snarling the words, the Seran couldn't think of any enemy that would provide such a chain of events.

"Speaking of the locust, Thessia and the Asari Republics would like to take a more pro-active effort into locating Locust nests and even adopting a similar sensor network like the B.S.A. While it's sensor in name only, your array allowed the Coalition to bring adequate forces into the Halo system to beat off the recent Salarian raid. A raid carried out by using Asari territory without our knowledge or permission. I would like to stress the fact my government had no hand in it" Clearly worried that the Seran's would affix more blame to the Asari for the attack at Halo, Tevos watched as Almstead took another sip of his drink, the cubed ice making a small 'tink' against the glass.

The silence reigned for several seconds, Tevos expecting some new calamity to fall in her lap.

"So long as the Council accepts the joining of the Krogan into the Coalition and the research into a genophage cure, we will view it as the Salarian's disregarding your territorial claims to launch a military raid. Something they paid with dearly I might add. They really only managed to destroy some empty cities, orbital factories and a few dozen of our warships. They, of course, lost nearly one hundred vessels and fled with a damaged dreadnaught" Tone filled with pride, Almstead knew his fellow Serans had weathered another battle against yet another foe. But the moment of pride fled quickly, his voice somber. "Doesn't mean there weren't losses. Compared to past battles and conflicts, we got off lightly, but it could have been far worse. The B.S.A. worked as advertised"

Tevos didn't show it, but her inner mind breathed a sigh of relief there would be no backlash. "The Seran's already have their hands full with a two-front war again. I doubt they want to stir up trouble even with the shift of galactic powers"

Sparatus spoke once more, the Turian immediately concerned by the mention of the Genophage. "Are you prepared to deal with a possible resurgence of Krogan population? Because we will hold the Seran's responsible for a second rebellion" Emphasizing the seriousness of his words, Sparatus's voice was like cold steel with a matching gaze. "Make no mistake. Our two peoples share many common ideas of honor, conduct and beliefs. But if your species are the cause of the Krogan going mad with battle, the Hierarchy will ensure the threat is dealt with"

"Councilor, please let's keep a level tone without threats of war. We're all dealing with a galactic mess as it is. I'm sure with the removal of Salarian influence, a cure for that terrible weapon can be developed, isn't that right, Jonathan?" Kojima said quickly, the beautiful Japanese woman using her calm tone to soothe the Turian.

"It's alright, Kojima. I can understand the worry and fear of a second rebellion. But I believe the ultimate goal is to lower natural birth rates among the Krogan. I will send you all detailed reports on the avenues of research the Coalition will employ"

"See that you do"

A small sigh of relief flowed through the impromptu meeting as Councilor Kojima took her drink in hand, the green liquid almost glowing with a small trace of alcohol. Giving a small smile, it was no wonder that some other species had such problems dealing with Terran or Seran women.

They reminded them of Asari far too much.

"My government would still like to extend a hand of friendship to Izabel Diaz and others in her government to visit Arcturus Station and Earth. Even now, not a single Seran has visited our homeworld"

"Isn't Terra overwhelmed with riots, protests and panic caused by fears of locust invasion? Plus, the whole terrorist thing on Pandora probably has caused increased mistrust and hatred" Jonathan asked politely, the four taking on a more relaxed stance of body language.

"Those have been dealt with. While there are still protests by anti-war groups, the vast majority of the planet is now calm and collected" Sipping her drink, Ichika's eyes jumped with a slight tease. "If you're not aware, several of the Latin American countries look upon Diaz fondly. Brazil, Honduras, Cuba and Venezuela would be proud to host 'A strong Latin woman"

"You know that makes no sense? Sera never had a Latin America as far as I know" Tevos joined in, finding the mindset of Terrans confusing once more.

"We don't and never did. But that's one of the confusing things about our two species. The similarities despite a galaxy apart" Finishing his drink, Almstead stood up, moving to the small bar nestled in the corner by his desk. "I'll pass on the invitation to the Chairman. I'll even recommend my support for the benefit of diplomatic understanding and co-operation"

With that, the impromptu meeting of the four species took a lighter tone as it fell to talk about trade, security forces around Pandora, and continued colonial efforts around Nueva Thessa.

Pandora, Sinno Bay 27th of Reap, 428 A.E.

Rain poured downward in sluicing buckets, the rivulets of water flowing downward along the walls of the small city to flow into the streets, and eventually the nearby bay. Traffic rumbled and sloshed along the roadways, the tires kicking up spray as citizens tried to hurry their journey to their destinations. But most were resigned to the nature of the tropical climate as many carried umbrellas.

Falling past the large bay windows of the Jungle Hut, Lea Kaliso sat at the booth in the corner of the eatery, her fellow employees having already ordered.

In total, there were five, not including Lea. Kerri sat near the edge of the curving booth, the Asari simply relaxing and waiting.

"Damn Boomer, you order voci-meat again?" Nitrallis asked with a light tease, the Turian a former soldier himself. Covered in green facial markings with onyx eyes and dull white plates, he had been the second hire, joining the crew only a few weeks after Kerri.

Boomer shrugged, the very large Krogan upending a large tankard of beer. Drinking heavily, the reptilian wiped his hand across his lower jaw, removing any straggling droplets. "You say it like meats a bad thing. I love a good Voci steak, same with the boss" Cocking his head toward Lea, the Krogan knew he had an ally.

"Can't go wrong with steak, Nitrallis" Panning her gaze to the last two at the table, Lea watched the Quarian and native of Earth talk animatedly about supply acquisitions and mechanics, which was fine with her. Borr das Krile was in charge of supply, assembling contracts, and the more mundane issues of a business. Sealed in his vac suit, the Quarian stayed enclosed, his purple tinted faceplate hiding any distinct features.

Jenny Borland was the most recent hire, a short female with burning red hair that was consistently tied in a single ponytail. Slim and fit, the Terran had piercing green eyes and freckles, adding to her relative attraction. Her job was vehicle and equipment maintenance, a task the woman was more than happy to complete every day. Armors, weapons, loading ammunition, the woman enjoyed it all.

"Hey boss, when's the next job? I want to blow some shit up since this last mission was a complete bust" Boomer asked, the nickname acquired during the war for his love of high explosives and heavy weaponry. Legally, his name was Hivve Barnis, but Boomer rapidly stuck.

"The last job went completely as planned! I swear you want things to go badly just so you can use that damn Boomshot" Huffing, Kerri couldn't understand the Krogan desire for destruction.

"It was just escorting some surveyors for a new road toward a nickel mine. We weren't attacked once. Sucked ass" Clearly depressed, the Krogan drank some more just as the food arrived, the aroma of meals wafting from the numerous plates, or nutrient thermos for Borr.

"Well, our next operation is an escort for some Asari homesteaders. They're looking to settle around Sunlight Grove. Very misleading name considering the overwhelming jungle foliage, swamplands, and hostile lifeforms. I'll compile the recommended weapons and tools for the mission" Speaking from behind his helmet, he halted then picked up his nutrient shake, the liquid fitting for his species.

"Now that's what I'm talking about! Pretty sure I'll need the Scorcher too" Mulling it over, the Krogan smirked at the thought of burning things.

"Why even bother assembling a list of equipment? We should just bring everything" Chiming in, Nitrallis had no problems laying waste to a target area considering how rapidly the jungle grew, the life repopulated and the sheer environmental factors.

"What about the abundance of life? And the fact that this will most likely be a village in the future? We can't devastate a whole area to feed your insane need to blow up everything"

"Nothing wrong with some ordinance to keep ourselves alive, Kerri" Eating a chunk of meat, the juicy morsel was rapidly chewed by the Seran as numerous other patrons inhabited the establishment, many just going about their day.

A nearby flatscreen blared with images, the screen in full view of the seated group in the corner.

Images flashed, showing a chaotic battlefield of the Pendulum wars, the gunfire and carnage interrupted by men and women fighting and killing. Switching rapidly, the battle changed to Gears fighting the locust, a hellscape of destruction as a half torn Coalition flag fluttered among a pile of rubble and smoldering fires.

Suddenly, it was Gears working with civilians on strange new worlds, establishing communities, farms and infrastructure as billows of wind blew through nearby trees.

This image then changed to a new war, facing the brutal onslaught of the Toads among the ruins of Seran cities, the streets filled with the dead as Gears took cover and fought the invaders with screaming gunfire.

Darkness retook the images, then flashed one final image of a renewed locust drone, its menacing teeth, glare and pale skin covered in advanced armor's, a lancer and equipment.

"Join the Gears and defeat the Coalition's enemies"

Lea turned toward her employees. "I've been thinking of re-enlisting. The locust need to be eradicated" Speaking with a harsh steel in her voice, Lea knew as a warrior, it was her duty to destroy all the enemies of her people….and the locust were definitely an enemy.

"What about your business? All the hard work you've put into this new life of your's? And it has been several years since you served" the Asari pointed out, her fork having skewered several pieces of vegetables. Shoveling them into her mouth, Kerri chewed softly as a few Terrans walked into the establishment, their clothes drenched and boots sloshing.

"Those are good points. But sitting here on the safety on Pandora while my ancestors fought, bled and died to destroy those monsters…it is dishonorable" Clutching her fist while giving a small snarl, the tattooed Seran had been thinking about re-enlistment for several months now, especially with the return of the ancient enemy.

"Honoring your ancestors is important" Nitrallis said with a serious opinion, his words in agreement with Boomer.

"I mean, we could still keep up missions and the day to day stuff. I'm sure you wouldn't have a problem taking care of the ownership aspect of the business. After all, I doubt you're the only Seran that has ever thought of re-enlistment" Jenny said with a nonchalant shrug of her shoulders, her red hair giving a light bob and bounce.

"Yeah…yeah, I'm gonna go and kill some fucking grubs. I'll re-enlist tomorrow"

"Make sure to shoot some Salarians too" Boomer added with a harsh chuckle, then fed himself another piece of meat. "Don't worry, I'll be blowing some shit up while you're gone. You do the same"

Smirking, Lea Kaliso probably would. Continuing her meal as her team talked and joked, the Seran's path was finally clear as the rain continued to fall on Sinno Bay.

System TH-428-J, 9th of Harvest, 428 A.E.

The large, squid like vessel floated over the hellish, brutal terrestrial world, its toxic atmosphere crushing with a sickly, yellow glow of high winds, molten lead and acid rains.

Balak watched the deadly world turn below from the ancient bridge, his gaze pondering. "A deadly beauty…but no matter" Stepping back, he closed his eyes while resting his hands on one of the nearby consoles, the machinery still in disrepair. "A Prothean warship…Sovereign…unbelievable" Curling his fist, the Batarian smiled at the power he had discovered. "My power…My strength. It's mine to wield against the Serans" Cursing the name, he felt his rage grow at the mere thought of the inferior two eyes. "But the ship needs repairs after the long darkness…to bring it to full battle readiness. I also need allies"

Feeling a strange…he couldn't place it, but the best he could describe it was compulsion, Balak looked around and left the bridge, his need to repair the warship like a…a mission.

"I must continue the work and once that is done, I will seek those who seek to punish my enemies"

Balak walked down the dark and ominous corridor, not knowing the latest news of the galaxy. But even if he did, he wouldn't have cared. Only fury and rage filled his heart, something Sovereign approved of as the ancient machine slowly guided the lone Batarian, each day bringing the sentient further and further under his grasp.

Still, Sovereign felt something strange, an unknown emotion from the information he gleaned from the small ship and data stores of Balak.

"The Serans… They've broken the trap for the organics…the time table for the next cycle must be advanced"

Well! That took forever to write! I'm sorry it took forever, but summer stuff, work, issues with my car, and life in general really delayed it. Then I was in some writing funk for a few weeks and barely wrote anything. Probably a little burnout to be honest. Anyway, I hope you all enjoy the latest chapter!

TheHappy