Disclaimer: I own no franchise mentioned in this work. Halo belongs to 343, Mass Effect to Bioware.

I had mentioned cross-posting this story to Ao3 last chapter. While FanFiction seems to have sorted out a lot of the issues when that came out, there's still some weird stuff going on. As such, this story, my completed works, and any future works will be posted to Ao3 under the same name for both author and story. I will continue posting on this site as well, so long as it is possible at least.

Literally nothing new with Halo or Mass Effect.

A quick recap of the last chapter, since I know that keeping track of a story between long update gaps like this can be frustrating:

The Normandy crew is finally established, with most though not all members.

Shepard is informed of possible Geth activity in the Veil as both an assignment from the Council as well as to cover for her presence in the Terminus

The Wardens are currently undertaking significant military operations in the Terminus due to an attack on Bastion, their beachhead and staging grounds for operations in the Citadel galaxy.

There's a whole bunch of other stuff going on that will be referenced in this chapter. I once again apologize for the long delays, I know it can be frustrating when reading a story, and it has certainly been a challenge while writing it.

Still, at least it's not dead yet.

18th Day of 9th Month, 2459/August 25, 2180/August 25, 2589

Serpent Nebula

Citadel Council Chambers

Valern barely acknowledged Tevos as the Asari walked into the Council's private chambers, the two of them having worked together long enough that their morning routine had been reduced to such brief pleasantries. The Asari Councillor returned his greeting with equal finesse, the two of them quickly falling into a comfortable silence as they concentrated on the numerous briefings that they would soon discuss. Powerful as the Citadel Council was in theory, that power could only be effectively wielded when the correct information was gathered and passed to people who could actually do something with it. Even though the Wardens had been a colossal pain in the ass for the STG, Valern could at least credit them with providing the push to strengthen the intelligence gathering capabilities of all Council species.

Of course, that wasn't the only shift that had come as the Council walked the delicate line of handling another galaxy-spanning alliance, as clearly evidenced by the grinding conflict in the Terminus. As he scrolled through the most recent, and relevant, reports that had been gathered from the frontline, Valern frowned at analysis that had been done on what information they had. With the impressive capabilities of the STG being directed to the Terminus, it was doubtful that they were missing anything that might alter the assessments before him, but the possibility remained even so. Making a note to check with the others as to their own knowledge on the matter, Valern finished the last of his briefings before taking a moment to collect and sort his thoughts before the arrival of the last Councillor.

Punctual as ever, Sparatus entered the Chambers just before they were scheduled to begin. While it was clear that the usual stress of responsibility weighed on him, the Turian showed no sign of struggling under the pressure as he took his seat. As he settled in for the coming discussion, the Turian inquired, "Shall we then?"

When Tevos assented by looking over to him, Valern gave a sharp nod and pulled up a map of the Terminus as he jumped right into their first topic, "There has been little shift in the Terminus, though not by means of resistance from the disparate elements in the region. The initial push from the Wardens has slowed to a more measured advance, even with most notable resistance already pulling back. Several groups have signaled their intention to exit the conflict entirely, though whether they will be able to stay out of it depends on the strategy of the Wardens. Our intelligence efforts have not gone unnoticed, but it seems that their fleets have orders to allow our presence so long as we maintain our policy of observation without disruption."

"That's the entirety of what the STG knows?" Sparatus pressed with a bit of frustration.

"Individual reports of fleet movements and engagements, but nothing that our analysts have noted as worth particular attention," Valern replied.

"Our own efforts have yielded similarly disappointing results," Tevos admitted. "I had some hope that your intelligence apparatus might find what we are clearly missing."

Valern shook his head slowly as he answered, "We have found no signs of subtlety, and the STG believes that is because they are not trying to be subtle. They make no attempts to hide their actions, they are obvious. Visible. A message."

"To us?" Sparatus muttered.

"Possible, but not alone," the Salarian responded, his words clipped as he spoke while thinking. "To the powers in the Terminus, and to all species of the Council. They might wish to show us as vulnerable, or incapable, to break the unity the Council represents."

"It could be to unite us," Tevos noted with a frown.

Sparatus scoffed and argued, "They have already peeled the Batarians away, and the Alliance clearly maintains some level of connection to Earth. The Migrant Fleet has disappeared into the depths of Warden space, and the STG has already theorized that the activity on Tuchanka is connected to similar efforts. With the Quarians to help them understand our technology, the Alliance to spy for them, and Krogans to fight, I think it is clear that they intend to escalate this conflict and expand beyond the Terminus whenever it pleases them."

"An option not to be discarded, but for what end?" Valern wondered.

"To destroy us and bring us under their control," Sparatus stated confidently.

"They have shown no interest in folding the Batarians into their ranks," Tevos countered.

Valern frowned and corrected, "The Hegemony, certainly, but if that collapses? The STG has kept careful eye on the Batarians and while we have not seen any odd movements, the collapse of the Hegemony under the pressures of a direct conflict with the Wardens might give such an opportunity."

"A problem that has existed for some time," Tevos noted. "The Hegemony has always been belligerent, their withdrawal from the Council in the face of the consequences of their actions was not something we could control. We knew that granting a seat to the Alliance would be unacceptable to them, but yet we agreed that closer ties with a human faction was of greater importance. I stand by that decision, and as I see it if the Wardens become entangled in whatever government succeeds the Hegemony then it will serve to distract them from further expansion. This Council and the Wardens are aware that a conflict between us would be foolish, but clearly they have already established some foothold from which they are dispatching the fleets in the Terminus. With their access to Slipspace and the unexplored relays that are scattered across the region, I do not see any way in which our interference now is beneficial."

"They possess an unassailable position beyond our capability to observe, with fleets capable of striking out across the galaxy with no warning. Reinforcing the planets closest to the Terminus only invites them to strike deeper, we must instead focus our forces around vital assets," Sparatus muttered with frustration. Grimacing, he looked up to the other two as he explained, "The Primach has already presented the problem to Hierarchy assets and they agree, a defensive stance is our only course of action until we can either block their method of FTL or have intelligence on possible first strike targets.

"STG concurs, though from what the Alliance tells us even the Wardens do not have the capability to block slipspace travel," Valern pointed out.

Sparatus grunted but did not disagree as he stated, "Then we are stuck exactly where we are. They clearly have some established presence on the north rim of the galaxy, one that we would be hard pressed to dislodge if there are no relays close to it. Their initial push into the Terminus was extraordinarily aggressive, but with this shift they seem to be digging in for an extended campaign. I just can't figure out why; they held the advantage only to discard it halfway into the operation?"

"It is possible that conquering worlds was not their objective," Tevos said. At the dubious look from the Turin Councillor she explained, "If they're applying extended pressure in the hopes that the Hegemony collapses, that might explain this strategy. Some Asari political analysts, however, have suggested that this is the result of domestic politics to justify the deployment of Warden forces so far from their territory. It explains why they've slowed their advance, use the early push to create the hope for an easy victory and then spend years going essentially nowhere."

"Would justify larger military expenditure as well," Valern noted.

Sparatus thought on that for a bit before admitting, "It is a strong possibility, but they could also be establishing a beachhead for a larger assault on Citadel space."

"Unlikely, occupation of Citadel space would be enormously difficult and provide almost no benefit," Valern argued. "They have far more planets available far closer to their existing territory, and any industrial capabilities on Citadel worlds would be irrelevant considering the completely different technological base. While they make clear their scientific interest in Element Zero and its properties, so too is it clear that they have no interest in moving away from their existing methods. A stance for which I cannot fault them."

"Would it be possible that their operation is intended to allow us to expand into the Terminus?" Sparatus asked. As the other two Councillors looked at him with curiosity, he gestured to the holomap and explained, "The Terminus has been a problem for years, an entire region of the galaxy essentially abandoned to corporations and piracy. Clearly the Wardens have established some presence in the far reaches of our galaxy, but that obviously did not sit well with the factions in the area given the activity that the STG observed. Their fleets are limited in number, but extremely effective in heavy engagements. Now that they've broken the resistance of the Terminus, it would allow us to move into the region without deploying the numerous fleets that were previously necessary to handle rogue elements."

Valern nodded as he considered the suggestion, his distraction clear as he replied, "Moving into the Terminus now risks creating issues with Warden forces, but it is an opportunity to finally begin addressing the issue. If the Wardens are after territory, then seizing it ourselves would force them to concede or draw us into the conflict. A risky proposition, but not impossible to achieve."

"The Republics can commit additional forces to the region, but the bulk of any forces would come from the Hierarchy," Tevos noted.

"Of course," Sparatus agreed, waving off the concern. "Much of what is already in the region is STG elements, but we would need a visible show of force. I would have to talk to the Primarch, but I doubt it would be an issue considering the reduction in pirate activity."

"Then this is our course?" Tevos inquired.

The Salarian Councillor nodded as he summarized, "If we watch and wait, we leave the Wardens to subsume the Terminus and Hegemony, or to withdraw and leave the problem to fester. Moving to establish the Citadel as an active power in the Terminus risks conflict with the Wardens or plays into their plans, yet also allows us to assert our position as the primary power in the galaxy. Whether it is true or not, the illusion that we have that power will give us leverage to influence the conflict."

"So long as we do not enter a direct confrontation with the Wardens," Tevos corrected.

"A risk by which we must abide," Valern agreed.

"I will discuss it with the Primarch," Sparatus stated. "It will take some time to position fleets and establish a strategy for advancing into the region."

Valern nodded and offered, "The STG has already begun analyzing how we might approach such an effort. Our expectations were for the slaughter of civilians or the destruction of planets, given the liberal use of glassing in the Covenant war. Fortunately the Wardens have refrained from such tactics, though we know that there has already been significant population displacement as people flee the frontline."

"We can move into the Terminus under the guise of preparing for refugees from the conflict," Tevos suggested. "So far we have not been intercepting transports moving through the relay network, but many of those fleeing seem to be staying in the Terminus rather than coming to Citadel space."

"We know that many of the mercenary and pirate forces have coalesced around Omega, obviously not surprising given its prominence in the region. We did observe several Warden vessels visit the station a short time ago, though whether they were delivering a warning or a threat is unknown," Valern reported.

Tevos did not seem surprised as she responded, "As I would expect given that Omega has been a prominent player in the Terminus long before the Batarians joined the Citadel. It has opposed every attempt by the Council to interfere in Terminus business, as both of you well know. I doubt that Aria will find the Wardens so willing to overlook her presence, especially if she supports the forces operating against them."

"The Council has been able to dissuade conflict with the Wardens because of how much space we occupy," Sparatus noted. "The Terminus is quite large, but clearly the Wardens are not interested in all of it. Omega is a clear, decisive target, which is perfect for their style of warfare. If they are truly set on clearing out the problematic elements in the region, Omega will fall. The Wardens are not burdened by the limitations we work within, we know they have the firepower to simply erase the station and the capability to take it if they wish. It would provide them a significant position from which to control the Terminus, if they decide to do so."

"We can challenge the Wardens for territory in the Terminus, but I do not believe we should make a play for Omega," Tevos responded. "Any conflict that involves the station will draw attention from every mercenary, pirate, and criminal in the galaxy. We would be able to take it, at significant cost, but it would throw the entire region into chaos for decades."

"And the Wardens taking it won't cause chaos?" Sparatus muttered.

Tevos scoffed and replied, "Oh it most certainly will, but it won't be the Council taking the blame for it."

"There will be deaths, and not just of those fighting," Valern pointed out.

"We put out a message urging those who can to flee," Tevos countered. "We give them somewhere to go, away from the frontline, let the Wardens make a mistake."

"There will be calls for the Citadel to intervene, to try and broker peace," Sparatus predicted.

Tevos nodded, "Of course there will, and we may offer to bring both sides to the negotiating table. I doubt either side will accept, the Wardens because of their arrogance and the Terminus because there are a dozen different factions and only a few would talk with us."

"So we identify where we can push into the Terminus and expand our reach by offering a haven from the fighting to those who seek it, thus extending our influence in the region. What do we do with the problem of the Hegemony?" Sparatus inquired.

"They might accept calls for peace, but given the attitude of the Wardens towards slavery I doubt they would entertain talks," Tevos stated. "Without the support of the Citadel the Hegemony stands alone against an enemy that is quite possibly as ruthless as the Krogan."

The Turian sighed and replied, "The Hegemony has a lot of problems but they do field a number of dreadnoughts, obviously in the hopes that they could achieve a seat on the Council."

"There would have been outrage, it was bad enough that they continued to practice slavery after becoming a member," Tevos muttered.

"I know, it was never realistic considering their social order," Sparatus agreed. "The collapse of that order will inevitably be messy, and those dreadnoughts falling into the hands of pirates and mercenaries may prove a problem for us as well. If someone with any intelligence gains command, they won't dare to test it against Warden vessels when there are far less murderous targets."

"The collapse of the Hegemony will be something that all species must adjust to, almost a repeat of the Quarian's mistakes in regards to a doom of their own creation," Valern said. "The STG has run predictions on possible results, but there are too many variables to reach a satisfactory model. In all of our realistic predictions, it will be an unpleasant and expensive affair, in both lives and productivity for the Batarians."

Sparatus scoffed and noted, "It was always going to get messy, the insistence of the Hegemony that slavery was some sort of abhorrent cultural tradition ensured that."

"Regardless of their past claims, if, or perhaps when, the Hegemony collapses, we need to be able to respond," Tevos stated calmly. "The situation will likely deteriorate quickly, so I would like to have at least an idea of how we wish to handle this."

"With Hierarchy fleets moving into the Terminus it would be easy for us to involve a Quick Reaction Force to secure Hegemony territory," Sparatus stated. "We don't have the forces for a full occupation, but we just need to be able to establish control over the relays. Once that is done we can deploy to individual worlds, assuming that the Hegemony falls to pieces rather than imploding."

Tevos considered that before remarking, "It's a good option to have, but we'll have to be careful with moving in. Too aggressive and we might spark a conflict with fleets that remain loyal to the Hegemony. As worlds break free of their jurisdiction they might take extreme measures, giving us an opportunity to intervene on behalf of Citadel law rather than as a play for territory."

"We should provide aid where possible, influence positivity to the Citadel with those breaking away from the Hegemony," Valern added. "If the population is amenable to our presence it will make it far easier to operate in the region."

"As well as give us an advantage in establishing cordial relations with whatever government takes the place of the Hegemony," Tevos suggested. "It would be good media attention as well, there is already significant focus on the conflict with the Wardens. The collapse of a Citadel member, even one that has broken ties with us, will catch the attention of the people."

Sparatus sighed and said, "This will be the second time in less than a century that an interstellar species experiences a societal collapse. Considering the usual stability of advanced civilizations, it shows a concerning trend."

"The Quarians created their own problems with the creation of the Geth," Valern pointed out. "Much as the Batarians have created this problem by clinging onto such a barbaric practice. Even the Wardens have shown that they are hardly immune to such weaknesses, that the UEG did not collapse alongside the Covenant is only due to their impressive defiance in the face of annihilation."

"It might be a weakness shared by the Systems Alliance," Tevos pointed out softly. At the curious looks sent her way, she explained, "Each of our governments is a unified alliance of sometimes disparate interests pushing towards a greater goal, each of us elected to represent their interest in the success of that pursuit. The Systems Alliance was created in the shadow of their war with the Covenant, and held together in the face of the Wardens by their abandonment to that same force. That glue will only hold for so long before it fails, especially given how short the memory of Humanity seems to stretch."

An irritated huff came from the Turian Councillor as he grumbled, "I still maintain that accepting a human Spectre was a mistake, they have not been a member of the Council long enough to earn the honor of a seat. I understand the benefits of tying the Alliance to the Citadel, but the risk their connections to the rest of their kind represent is not insignificant."

"An argument we are well aware of," Valern replied. "We have given up too much to not take advantage of their knowledge. The Alliance represents the opportunity for this Council to contend with the Wardens; the STG has already determined that we lack the technological capability to handle the challenges they represent. This is an unacceptable state of affairs, and as such we need to pursue every possible avenue of closing that gap."

"You are quite resolute in the conclusion of our inferiority," Tevos observed.

Valern shook his head and corrected, "We hold the advantage in several areas, enough to at least maintain our status in this galaxy. As I said, the Wardens do not have the capability to take and hold the entirety of Citadel territory, but that does not mean they are not capable of causing immense damage."

"Given what we have seen of their fleets in action against elements in the Terminus, I will admit that I harbor some concerns as to the ability of the Hierarchy to meet them in direct conflict," Sparatus said.

"Thus why we need the Alliance," Tevos replied.

"I know, I am simply expressing my dislike of the situation," Sparatus grumbled.

"Understandable," Valern interjected. "We are making progress in understanding the requirements for utilizing slipspace, energy shielding, and other such innovations."

Tevos seemed doubtful as she corrected, "Progress is optimistic."

"We understand what is necessary and where we fall short, this is more than we had before," Valern argued.

"So how close are we to having something that might actually work?" Sparatus pushed.

"Decades, at least," Tevos responded quickly.

The Turian scoffed and stated, "We don't have that much time, not with the Wardens establishing a foothold in the Terminus. Our fleets are only as effective as our information, and that is clearly sorely lacking. Without any options to intercept and force engagements, the Hierarchy cannot guarantee the safety of Citadel assets."

"Teams are working on the problem, there is nothing we can do to support them that is not already being done," Tevos replied.

"Has there been any sign of resistance from the Alliance in helping with these projects?" Sparatus asked.

Valern was the one to answer, "STG assets are heavily involved, and while there have been individual instances of problems, there has been no concerted, organized effort to impede our progress."

"Without the help of the Alliance, I would expect this to take another order of magnitude longer, centuries rather than decades," Tevos added. "I understand your frustration Sparatus, I truly do, but we are working with something that we have no experience with. Even knowledgeable as the Alliance might be in working with Slipspace, even they admit that they are quite possibly millenia behind the technology that the Wardens have shown to possess. Everything we have built is based on Eezo, and while it is clear that we have accomplished incredible feats with such, it is also clear that we have become sorely lacking in experience with alternative technological approaches."

"I am well aware of those facts, but we are discussing the encroachment of the Wardens on Citadel territory. A solution that may appear after our defeat is no solution," the Turian countered.

"The Terminus has maintained its independence from our influence, regardless of our efforts to the contrary," the Asari corrected. "Until such a time as the Wardens violate Citadel territory, as in actual planets owned by member species, we are better treating the situation with a soft touch while giving the Union time to gather information on our potential enemy. There will come a time when the might of the Hierarchy will be called upon to face the Wardens, and we are doing everything possible to ensure when that time comes your fleets will be the victor."

Sparatus sighed and nodded as he responded, "I understand, and thank you for that effort. I am simply concerned that it will not be enough, not with our position as unfavorable as it seems."

"A fair concern," Valern agreed. "The situation is antithetical to the entirety of Salarian doctrine, so I and almost all of the STG share your concerns. However, there is one factor that the Hierarchy may be missing, especially considering the understandable skepticism of such claims..."

It took a few seconds before the Turian concluded, "The Reaper rumors?"

"Exactly," the Salarian confirmed. "The Wardens seemed oddly concerned with the threat of such stories being reality, even with absolutely no proof of their existence. While I am sure we are all very interested in why they are so concerned about such a ridiculous possibility, it does ensure that the Wardens exercise caution when operating in our galaxy. The STG predicts that without an inciting incident the Wardens will be unwilling to risk direct conflict with Citadel forces so long as they believe the threat of these Reapers exists."

"If they believe it at all and are not simply laughing at us," Sparatus pointed out. "Whatever inhibitions they may have, it clearly did not stop them from engaging in conflict with the Terminus. Clearly that assumption is far too weak to be relied upon, and was never enough to be considered a proper defense against their aggression."

"All true, but it may at least buy us some time," Valern countered.

The Turian didn't argue as he ceded, "If nothing else I suppose. Putting aside those factors which we cannot control, let us focus on those we can. You said that there was progress, meager though it may be?"

"We have begun to understand the fundamental principles of how these Slipspace drives function, on a basic level but at least it is something. Obviously the specifics are far beyond any of us, but from what has been reported by the teams working with the Alliance it is a good start. Obviously the complete lack of education on many of the concepts has hindered efforts, but there was no avoiding that. Even if we did have education programs suited for these fields, the bulk of the effort involves reverse engineering and manufacturing the components necessary to build more drives," Tevos summarized.

"The Systems Alliance has thousands, don't they? What is the issue with those?" Sparatus inquired.

Tevos sighed, her own frustration clear as she explained, "I asked the same, and apparently the Alliance is already struggling with maintenance on their existing drives. Most of the advanced manufacturing capability of humanity was in the Inner Colonies, whereas the Systems Alliance was created from those fleeing as the Outer colonies were surrendered to the Covenant. That is a whole different socio-political problem, but what it means for us now is that the Alliance is trying to create that area of expertise from what few engineers and scientists they have."

"Are we certain they aren't hindering us on purpose?" the Turian suggested.

When Tevos looked at Valern, the Salarian frowned and answered, "Not impossible, but unlikely. The STG is aware of significant societal issues with the Alliance, which is what led us to perform the analysis I mentioned before. It is not surprising that they would struggle, much like the Quarians they essentially existed as a migrant fleet rather than an organized civilization. Part of our goal in granting them a seat on this Council is to provide an element of stability, to prevent them from falling apart at an inopportune time."

"Alright, yes, they are getting a seat, let's not go back into that," Sparatus grumbled. "If they have so many drives, especially ones which they are struggling to maintain, then surely we have a plentiful number of testbeds for integration with our own technology?"

"Understanding how this method of FTL works and how these drives function is only a part of the larger problem, yes," Tevos granted. "Even if we were to solve that tomorrow, I am told that we still face an immense hurdle in that all of our technology is based on Mass Effect. Obviously not every single thing, but anything advanced enough to be relevant uses Element Zero. Now for most things that is acceptable, possibly even superior, but not in regards to power generation. These slipspace drives take immense amounts of energy to operate, and that is not even including the engines and shielding and weapons that the Wardens also utilize. Quite simply, we do not have the power on board our ships to run these machines."

"Now, this is a far more approachable problem because at the very least we have existing research into alternative methods of power generation. Some of them are following the same techniques as what the Alliance uses, some possibly even the Covenant, but that research has always been an afterthought. Unnecessary, unneeded, in many cases a complete waste. What it does mean is that we have a basis for understanding how we may achieve the energy necessary to run a slipspace drive, albeit with significant caveats that I don't care to get into," Tevos explained.

To his credit, Sparatus quickly understood the problem as he muttered, "Which would need to be integrated into our existing ships or built into new models."

"Precisely," Tevos confirmed. "This above all is what will take time and resources. Our fleets are not prepared or equipped to field this sort of technology, and it is good to remember that we are still talking about the vastly inferior slipspace methods that humanity used for some time. The Wardens have already shown significantly more advanced and capable use of slipspace from their post-war vessels, which they have as much as told us is from their discovery of these Forerunners."

"We know we are fighting a battle we may have already lost, competing in a race of technology in which we are only falling further behind," Valern said, picking up from his Asari counterpart. "Fortunately we are following a path we know exists, so there is no doubt as to possibility, regardless of our concerns about feasibility."

"Chasing your enemy is rarely the correct choice, I am surprised that you are not advocating to attempt an approach they are not expecting," the Turian noted.

Valern frowned and responded, "That would be very risky, though probably possible. We travel in FTL with Mass Effect, the Wardens with Slipspace, it is not hard to imagine there being several more possibilities. To find them, to bet the security of our species on that? Not in these circumstances."

"I understand," Sparatus admitted. "I am worried that the Wardens follow in the steps of their own Protheans, steps which we would be very hard pressed to recreate."

"Certainly," the Salarian agreed. "To surpass the Wardens is a goal far beyond our ability to plan for at this moment, so for now we content ourselves with what we can feasibly accomplish. Our own advancements have been largely due to Prothean knowledge, and while we still have much to learn it is clearly not enough. With the capability to utilize Slipspace we may break free of the Relays, to strike at our enemies much as they may us, to even the field in some regard."

There were a few seconds of silence before the Turian Councillor huffed and commented, "This must have been a conversation the humans held in their war with the Covenant. An enemy with which they could not contend, desperately hoping for something to survive annihilation."

"The Wardens are not set on a campaign of genocide against us," Tevos replied.

"Yet," Sparatus interjected.

"Just so," the Asari continued calmly, "That may be a somewhat extreme comparison, though I do understand the thought."

The Turian waved a hand dismissively and stated, "Regardless, what we know is that our current fleets will not be able to support slipspace drives due to the power requirements. I think I need not say it, but rebuilding our fleets with this technology would be impossible to hide. It would certainly catch the attention of the Wardens, and even more importantly the attention of everyone else in the galaxy."

"We would need to integrate advancements in phases, allowing an adjustment period so as to not upset things too much. Obviously there would be pushback from companies whose entire business revolves around Element Zero, whether it is weapons, ships, or power generation. Given the disruption that even a cursory analysis predicts, it is perfectly understandable why the Wardens have not integrated our technology into their ships. Obviously their association with the Quarians indicates some interest in Mass Effect, but it is unlikely that we will see any serious shift outside of some civilian efforts," Valern said.

"Why not? Surely there's something Mass Effect can offer them," Sparatus pressed.

Tevos answered, "The most obvious problem they face is the same one we do; they do not understand the technology because it is not something they have ever encountered before. Just because they understand Slipspace doesn't mean that they can understand the applications of Element Zero, though the Quarians will certainly help overcome that. Even if they were to understand it, they have no supply of Eezo, especially not with the numbers of ships we have observed in their fleets."

"They also face a significant issue when it comes to mass," Valern added. "Our ships are limited by the size of the Mass Effect field, but while theirs are not so too does that mean that they cannot simply implement Eezo cores onto their vessels. This is how they are able to reach the power requirements necessary for their technology; rather than worrying about building a smaller reactor, they just build the ship large enough to hold such an enormous structure. Of course with the larger vessel comes a requirement for larger engines, and yet another problem which Eezo cores solve for our current craft."

The Turian considered that as he responded, "I know that human vessels used to utilize massive fusion torches for propulsion, a crude but effective solution given their reactors. I presume that would be our initial approach as well, or would we attempt to utilize the gravity fields that are equipped on modern human vessels?"

"Artificial gravity is understood well enough to make repulsor engines feasible, though concealing their signature would be enormously difficult should we need stealth craft," Valern replied. "Our baffling for heat dispensation would be hard pressed to handle the output of fusion engines of the size required to move slipspace capable vessels, but it is possible. Ultimately the STG hopes to pursue both solutions, as at least one will be needed to propel a vessel that lacks an Eezo core."

"Obviously fusion torches would be much closer to our current engine designs, but do we have the expertise to spare in regards to trying to research the repulsor engines?" Sparatus asked.

Valern seemed resigned as he answered, "It is difficult to predict the possible returns on that research, especially given that the Alliance has no experience with such technology. This is what concerns Salarian designers, because even if we build a small number of vessels capable of Slipspace travel, that is still an enormous investment in infrastructure to handle such an effort."

"Our current shipyards would need to be completely rebuilt," Sparatus agreed.

"More than that," Tevos stated, "the entire supply line to create these ships doesn't exist. Our designers are not familiar with such scale, our facilities are not prepared for it, and the cost for materials to build each ship will be significant."

Valern nodded and added, "This also does not include training, crews would have to be educated on this technology, engineers replaced."

"How committed are the Union and Republics to this approach?" Sparatus questioned. "The more I hear the more concerned I am that we will not be able to implement this in Hierarchy fleets. Our doctrine is well established and better suited for control of Relays, our strikes into Krogan territory during the Rebellions were made off the Relay network."

"You are not interested in applying this technology to Hierarchy vessels?" Valern inquired with a bit of surprise.

Sparatus shook his head and clarified, "Eventually, certainly, but not now. The Hierarchy has the largest fleet in the galaxy, I feel comfortable in that assumption even with the Wardens carrying out their campaign in the Terminus. An experimental vessel, or even a fleet of them, is far more the domain of Salarians or Asari than it is the Hierarchy. I believe that the cost will be prohibitive, in a multitude of ways, until their worth is proven in the field. Whether that is gathering intelligence or as a strike force is irrelevant, just some action that shows their value."

"Replacing Hierarchy fleets was always going to be difficult by numbers alone," Valern admitted.

"The Turians are the primary fighting force of the Citadel, it would be odd if you do not field craft that can challenge even dreadnoughts," Tevos countered.

"And in time we will, but for now it is my position that the Hierarchy is better suited to defending Citadel territory. Once we have the information necessary to actually contend with the Wardens, to strike at their positions in our galaxy, then I will not argue against this," Sparatus said. He huffed and added, "I also think we will be in a better position to produce these ships at scale when that time comes."

Tevos and Valern shared a glance, the Salarian shrugging before the Asari responded, "Understood, we shall keep you apprised of the status of the program."

"Thank you, I should hope that we do need such craft any time soon," Sparatus replied. He paused before asking, "A quick word before we move on, has there been any consideration as to the use of Alliance vessels for material."

Valern nodded and answered, "Indeed, it was determined to be prohibitively difficult to move that much material through the Relay to our galaxy. Not impossible by any means, but there would be little gained in doing so. As for constructing vessels in Alliance space, the possibility of information breaches would be higher as well as put those facilities in much easier striking distance should the Wardens decide on that course."

"Fair reasons," Sparatus stated, not at all surprised at the conclusion. "Unless there is anything else, shall we move on?"

"Indeed," Tevos agreed. "Since we are already discussing the Alliance, it is worth noting that they are nominating a Councillor to hold the seat until proper elections can be arranged. The Alliance Ambassador's Office has informed us that one Anita Goyle has been dispatched from the Systems Alliance and will arrive on the Citadel within the week."

Sparatus thought for a moment before noting, "I do not believe I've heard of someone by that name."

"You'll get along with her," Tevos assured him. "She's a politician from one of the Outer Colonies that was destroyed by the Covenant. She's blunt, stubborn, and committed to her job."

"Already talked to Benezia?" Valern asked.

"Of course," the Asari Councillor confirmed. "Apparently Miss Goyle has a reputation for being rather adept at cutting through political machinations. It will be interesting to see how she handles the delicate politics of the Citadel, though from what Benezia has said she won't have much of a problem adjusting."

Sparatus hummed and stated, "I find it more concerning as to the reaction of other members of the Citadel. The Alliance is still fairly isolated for a member state, to be granting them a seat when most members still see them as outsiders has led to tensions."

"The Alliance cannot strain relations with the Citadel given their tenuous position," Tevos replied. "It makes little sense for them to alienate potential allies by causing problems with existing political disputes."

"Even the other species in the Wardens have warned that Humanity can be less than predictable," Valern warned.

Tevos tilted her head and acquiesced, "This is true, but if it becomes a problem then we shall address it as necessary."

"Has there been any word from the Alliance Navy about increased ship production?" Sparatus inquired of the Salarian.

"The Alliance has been building up their forces without pause since joining the Council. The STG has not seen any increase since they gained a seat, but neither is there a decrease. It is likely that they are already producing at full capacity and any further efforts will require time and space to set up," Valern answered.

"Not bad for a species so inexperienced with Eezo," Sparatus begrudgingly granted. "How has their new ship performed, the Normandy?"

Valern responded, "The ship is moving towards the Terminus, but has not been flying under stealth given that they are still in Citadel territory. STG will not alert them as to the effectiveness of their systems since Warden assets are aboard and may be able to surmise the limits of Salarian scanning from that information."

"I'll be curious to see how it functions against the Geth, and even more so against the Wardens," Tevos commented.

"Hopefully that learning won't be done at the end of a mass accelerator," Sparatus said. "The Wardens won't fire on a ship with their own people on it, but the Geth will have no such inhibitions."

"Considering that the STG has had trouble penetrating the Veil to observe the Geth, I doubt that the Normandy would be able to do any better. Spectre Vakarian may have some interesting perspectives, but he knows that observation does not necessitate direct intervention should they find Geth activity," the Salarian responded.

The Turian nodded and replied, "Vakarian has a good head on his shoulders, hopefully allowing him and Arterius the freedom to look into their concerns about the Reapers will allow him to focus on more immediate issues."

"One can only hope," Tevos agreed. "They are both effective Spectres, and they are hardly the first to have concerns outside those assigned by the Council."

"Vasir?" Sparatus asked.

"Of course," the Asari confirmed. "I doubt that Shepard will find much trace of her given the chaos in the Terminus, but that doesn't mean that someone else found her first."

Valern frowned and said, "There have been reports of refugees being displaced by the Wardens, usually slaves retrieved from disabled vessels. Putting aside the possibility that they possess a weapon capable of disabling Eezo cores or if their AI are responsible, if Vasir was undercover on one of those ships she may have been taken to whatever world the Wardens have claimed. Recovering that intelligence would be immensely helpful to our efforts, especially if she manages to maintain a low profile."

"She has dealings with the Shadow Broker, correct?" Sparatus asked.

"Vasir has always been one to flaunt rules," Tevos replied. "I know that the STG was tracking her communications to the Broker, I assume there has been no activity?"

"Not that has been reported," Valern replied. "Even were she trying to be careful, she has never been as good as she thinks she is."

Tevos huffed but didn't argue as she stated, "Regardless, that intelligence is something that we cannot have escaping into the broader information networks. Usually I have no issue overlooking a Spectre's impropriety, especially when the Spectre proves as effective as Vasir has been, but this is too important to risk such a leak."

"The STG is already investigating, and it is possible that Spectre Shepard may be able to find something from the Warden soldiers on her crew," Valern stated.

"Perhaps, though given their reputation I have my doubts," Sparatus admitted. "I still find it curious how the Wardens are aggressively pushing into the Terminus while simultaneously fostering the illusion of cooperation by agreeing to a joint deployment."

"It is possible that cooperation is just an excuse, they did send a team of their Spartans," the Salarian noted. "From what the STG has gathered, the leader of that ground is effectively a Fleet Admiral in the UNSC, and a legend amongst the Wardens. For one accustomed to command to agree to serve under a Commander, or even a Spectre, is very strange."

Tevos scoffed and replied, "Separating myth from reality has proven difficult when it comes to Spartans, and even more so with the Master Chief. At the very least Benezia was able to discuss the matter with some Alliance personnel, and the report she gave was certainly intriguing."

"The Master Chief is their savior of the galaxy, yes?" Sparatus inquired.

"Indeed," the Asari confirmed. "Following the conclusion of the Covenant war he has continued addressing some of the largest threats facing Humanity, as well as those facing the Wardens. As you might have realized, this means that the goal of the Wardens by joining the Normandy might be to pursue leads in regards to the Reapers."

"If they wish to waste their time chasing ghosts, then all the better," Sparatus muttered. He frowned and added, "I am surprised that the command structure of the Wardens would allow such a thing."

Valern interjected, "We believe that the Spartans operate somewhat like our Spectres, perhaps not with the complete immunity they enjoy but in regards to handling more delicate and challenging tasks. Given the status of the Chief, it is likely that so long as he is not actively murdering entire cities or something else ridiculous, he is left to pursue whatever issues he finds important. So long as Shepard does not pit the Normandy against the Wardens or their interests, the Chief will entertain her orders in the interest of utilizing the freedom Spectres enjoy."

"Hence dispatching the Normandy to the Terminus," Sparatus concluded.

"Precisely," the Salarian confirmed. "I do not expect them to cause issues, but better to let them do it where most of the galaxy will not see or care."

When no one spoke for a few seconds, Tevos checked her omnitool and stated, "Unless anyone has anything else, we have some time before our next arrangement."

"The extra time to prepare would be appreciated," Valern responded. Sparatus didn't argue, instead just nodding his agreement.

"Then I will see you both shortly in the public Chambers," Tevos said, standing and making her way out of the room. Valern and Sparatus followed shortly after, both heading to their offices as they handled the endless business that faced the Council.

August 27, 2589/20th Day of 9th Month, 2459/August 27, 2180

Pax System

Noveria

The ships that arrived to transport her and her workers sang a multitude of songs, each twisted together with notes of hate and fear and the bonds of brothers. In her time waiting for her freedom to be granted she had met many who held such notes, and though they did well to hide them from each other it was impossible to hide them from her. Even with the clear fractures between them, there were no notes of conflict amongst the various individuals that came to talk with her. Each had their questions about all different kinds of things, some leaving disappointed while others appeared excited by her answers.

None held the notes of Those Who Came Before, but they sang of different notes to find amidst the stars. It was the promise of an entirely new tapestry upon which the Rachni may write their song which she held in her mind as she stepped onto their ships, her Children dutifully following behind as they emerged from their tunnels into a massive space of metal and light. Even with the entire colony aboard they had space to spare, their movements watched by those who had offered to spare them from extinction.

Soon enough she felt the song of the only planet she had ever known fall away, the vast silence of the void beyond worlds leaving her to listen to the artificial notes of the ship around her. And then, finally, there was a shift as she heard a song which had existed only in the Memories, a haunting melody as reality itself gave way to the beautiful tune of higher dimensions. The notes were muddled, clearly a crude recreation of what once was, but so too was the song muffled and broken in the Memories. From the thousands of Queens that had existed since the time when Those Who Came Before there were hints of the song, though only as a distant recollection.

Aside from a brief interruption from those who could not hear the song, she was left to relax and lose herself amidst the notes as the ship ferried her to her new home.

When the time finally came for the ship to break free and slide back into reality, she bid the ancient notes a fond farewell as she wondered if she would ever hear them again. Soon the haunting melody of Slipspace was gone, replaced by the pleasant tune of the approaching planet as the ship broke into the atmosphere. Lost in the notes of her new home, it was only when she was stepping out onto fresh soil that she heard the subtle notes that only graced her presence once before.

It did not take her long to find the source, the soft beauty of Those Who Came Before quickly leading her to the Inheritor of Those Whose Song Has Ceased. It did not wear armor, instead adorned in simple clothes as it greeted her, "Hello, and welcome to your new world."

Thank you for reading, I know it is a bit rough but I hope you enjoyed. Until next time.

-evevee