April 5 2620

Window system

Citadel

The Citadel, the crown jewel of the Council races. A relic of from the Protheans who vanished fifty thousand years ago, a massive five armed space station that was the seat of galactic power for all Citadel races. It stood as a monument of this galactic civilization, where all races under it's banner could come together and hopefully solved the problems plaguing it's people (sometimes).

It had been nearly five hours since half of the ships guarding the Citadel had left under the command of the council, this had left the Citadel with five hundred ships at it's defense. To the inhabitants of the Prothean station this was nothing out of the ordinary, their defense ships rotated every few months never leaving the station under protection for too long. But this was no ordinary day as the galaxy would soon realized.

The rings of the relay connecting the Citadel to the rest of galaxy began to spin, alerting the remaining Citadel fleet of an impending arrival. From the relay one hundred heavily damaged ships sparking and leaking eezo entered the system, to the surprise of all who saw this these were the very same ships that had left hours ago. Once the ships were safely in the system their flagship made contact.

"Citadel control, this is Matriarch Lidanya. This is a emergency transmission priority one, I need to be connected to the Council immediately!" She said in a panic tone.

"This is Citadel control, we read you matriarch. Connecting you to the Council now."

Within a matter of seconds matriarch Lidanya image was broadcasted to the Council. The expressions of the three councilors were nothing short of shocked, as they expecting a victorious return from their fleet not the shallow remnants of what they sent.

"Matriarch Lidanya is that you?! Where's the rest of your fleet? What happened?" Tevos questioned obviously worried for her fellow

Asari, and their missing ships.

"Councilors I have grave news, the fleet...I have failed, the colony of Vucrora has been lost." Lidanya announced, clearly placing the blame on herself.

"Lost! How could you have been defeated, you were in command of a fleet of five hundred ships!" Sparatus angry shouted.

Valern tried to keep his fellow councilor calm, and asked. "Matriarch Lidanya please explain how this could have happened, what went wrong?"

"It was the enemy you sent us to fight, they were no pirates or rebels but something we've never encountered. Their ships were on a whole other level then our own, we didn't even detect any eliminate zero from them." That caught Sparatus's attention as this sounded familiar. "It better if I showed you what I mean."

Once Lidanya finished speaking her image changed to a video format, and a video from the space battle over Vucrora played. The vid started near the end of the battle, UNSC ships were seen firing MAC and ion cannons, distorted and disabled ships littered the area. The UNSC ships then began to move in, encircling Lidanya's fleet.

"Matriarch the enemy ships are surrounding us, orders?" One crewman voiced

"Have all ships break formation, and regroup on the other side of...the-" this was all Lidanya could say as her attention was focused on a shocking event.

Suddenly off in the distance the video captured the images of slip space portals opening up releasing a storm of OSA ships, while other ships appearing from hyperspace. But what captured everyone's eyes were the three massive ships leading this new fleet, each one was over five kilometers long easily overshadowing any citadel ship. As this new fleet entered the system the battle seemed to stop, within moments the UNSC ships began firing warning shots forcing Lidanya's fleet back through the relay. The vid ended there with the council speechless,

Sparatus typed a few commands into his terminal capturing images of all the OSA's ships, he had remembered the report from the Hierarchy military council of similar ships with no element zero. "No this can't be right, this was not the plan." Sparatus said in a calm tone.

"Sparatus have you've see these ships before?" Tevos asked overhearing the Turian.

"I've heard of ships like these, but I've never seen the first hand." Sparatus began to explain. "Six days ago a patrol fleet in the Exodus Cluster discovered a newly reactivated relay 314, the fleet went to investigate this unapproved reactivation. Their reports stated that a battel did occur, with the defeat of our fleet with few survivors (he stated angrily at the lost). The hierarchy's military council after hearing this had decided to make a peaceful contact with new race, it's clear now we're dealing with a hostile race, or multiple hostile races like the Krogans." Sparatus suggested with disgust of this race of outlaws.

"Sparatus your saying the hierarchy knew of this new race and never informed us!" Valern angrily question.

"The Primarch assured me that he intended for a peaceful solution, it's clear that this enemy wants nothing to do with peace. We must prepare for a counterattack, will have to call in the Volus, Hanar, Elcor, and the Batarian's fleets. If we acted quickly we could catch them off guard." Sparatus suggested.

"Are you mad?! Did you see their flagships we should have our reinforcements protect the citadel before we send them to fight a unknown enemy, seeing as it was your idea to send our defense fleet out there." The Salarian argued.

"These "flagship" are most likely portable space stations not actual ships, and if I remembered correctly you were also in favor of sending our fleet to "protect our interests"!" Both Turian and Salarian councilors argued with one and other.

"Both of you stop your bickering." Tevos ordered. "The only way to stop this from escalating any further is to make contact with these newcomers."

"My people have already tried Tevos! This calls for action."

"We can't just attack anyone we please Sparatus, especially if we have time to plan a peaceful solution." The Asari argued.

"Perhaps we could station a few ships near relay 314, and captur a ship, decode their language and make contact." The Salarian suggested.

This argument seemed to never end, as one would blame another and plans were tossed around. Unknown to the council and most of the citadel the rings of the nearby relay spun again, but this time they would receive a rude awakening.

OSA fleet

One relay from the Citadel

Shadow of Intent

Just outside of the citadel's relay stood the OSA fleet of one thousand ships, lead by their three super carriers the Shadow of Intent, UNSC Valhalla, and the Cybertronian's Ark. They had left Vucrora under the protection of spyglass's fleet while they confronted the Citadel Council, the fleet was more then prepared for anything whither it be peace or another war. On the main bridge of the Intent the councilors, representatives and military personnel such as the Arbiter and Master Chief were gathered ready to meet their new neighbors.

"See I told you they would lead us right to their Citadel, lucky for us we're able to follow their element zero trails." The Sangheili councilor Rtas announced smugly.

"It would have been simpler to follow the map we acquired from the Turian's ships." The prophet of faith stated

"Regardless of our methods, we're finally here." Keyes said readying himself, he then pressed a button on a nearby terminal connecting them to their fleet. "Attention all ships, I'm sure all of you know the plan, our flagships will confront the citadel's council first and if we run into a problem we'll signal for reinforcements." Keyes then signaled to the ship's crew to proceed though the relay.

The three super carriers slowly approached the relay one by one, to not collide into each other. The Intent was first once in possession a blue bolt of energy hit the super carrier, the rings began to rotate faster and in a instant the ship was sent into FTL to the Citadel. Valhalla was next then the Ark bringing up the rear, just as fast as the Intent the other ships vanished.

The journey through the relay was remarkably faster than ether slip-space or hyperspace ever were, as the super carriers found themselves within the purple clouds of the window system. The three super carriers emerged from the clouds like giant serpents, charging their target. All members of the OSA who caught a glimpse of the Citadel remarked on its elegant appearance, but also on its small size compared to High Charity.

On the OSA's approach the Citadel's defense fleet had spotted the super carriers and prepared to fight, the hundred damaged ships also joined in bringing the citadel fleet to six hundred. The arms of the citadel then began to move, closing itself off from the outside forming into a massive cylinder. Seeing this they positioned the super carriers just out of firing range, and began to broadcast their transmission.

Citadel

All across the Citadel an uproar was heard by its citizens as for a unknown reason the arms were shut with no warning, many believed this to be a unscheduled drill while the small fraction of who saw the super carriers were dismissed. While this was going on all public video screen began to act oddly, instead of advertisements and citadel programming all screens were staticky with no sound. But that quickly changed as an unknown source hijacked the citadel's broadcasting system, soon the image of the OSA's councilors were seen catching the attention of all.

The prophet of faith was the first to speak "Greetings to all species of the citadel, we are the representatives of the Orion System Alliance or OSA for short." The female San'Shyuum announced

"We are here to correct a great injustice caused by your so called peace keepers, the Turian hierarchy." Rtas claimed with venom in his voice.

"We are not here for war but to settle this peacefully, but be warned we are more than capable of defending ourselves." Keyes finished

Everyone on the citadel were now panicking they had just witnessed three new races, and they had accused Hierarchy of attacking them. The citadel's media and other cooler heads began recording this event, and sent it to every corner of citadel space.

Keyes then spoke again this time images of the first contact played. "Nearly a week ago our organization found our first mass relay, curious of this new device we sent our scientist in to study it. When they activated the relay under our command, a Turian fleet attacked our ships seeing that we had broke a law we knew nothing about."

The prophet of faith then spoke again "After that we waited for the hand of peace only to be attacked a second time, and once again we proved victories." The screen changed this time showing the battle over Shanxi, with video from both fleets showing the Turian firings first.

"We as a whole decided that this was the final straw and attacked the Turian's colony of Vucrora." Rats announced this time images of the destroyed city, captured citadel races and the defeated fleet were shown. "As you can see your ships, your city's, even your most capable warriors can't stand up to us. You're leaders have tried to fight us, yet they have not won a single battle against us." Rats finished mockingly.

"Please listen to our words, we simply wish to stop this needless bloodshed before this gets further out of hand." The camera then began to pan out showing other OSA races. "Let us settle this peacefully, face to face." This was the prophet's final words before a soldier spoke off screen.

"The citadel fleet are powering up weapons, and moving into position."

"Attention all ships power up shield and prepare weapons, do not fire unless they do first." Keyes ordered.

The civilians of the Citadel began to panic as it seemed as a new war was about to start, but as soon as the Citadel's fleet got into position to fire the voice of the Asari councilor was heard.

"This is councilor Tevos representative of the Asari republic, all Citadel ships stand down." The defending fleet then held its position. "We of the Citadel council offer our deepest apologies, as we were unaware of our allies actions until recently. Please we welcome you to the Citadel, hopefully we can settle this problem like two civilized societies." The Asari councilor suggested, hoping to end this confrontation peacefully.

"We accept your offer councilor, provided that we are allowed to bring our own guards with us." Rtas answered.

"Yes that would be acceptable, will send you the location of a available landing zone shortly."

As the two councils finished speaking the transmission ended, the defending fleet soon disbanded reforming near the citadel. The citadel then opened back to it's original state, the OSA's super carriers backed away keeping a respectable distance while the OSA's representatives prepared to meet their new neighbors.

Citadel

Council chambers

Within the council chambers the three representatives of the citadel races had just finished their first talks with the OSA, each councilor having their own opinion on the current situation.

"Tevos! Why did you ordered them to stand down, we had these upstairs out numbered." Sparatus clearly angrily at his fellow councilor.

"What would you have us do attack them after their display, both of our groups wish to end this peacefully Sparatus."

"I agree with Tevos if we can persuade them to join the citadel we could gain their tech" Valern stated looking over the three super carriers. "We can also use this opportunity to negotiate the return or Vucrora and our troops."

"Fine but have C-sec on full alert, there's no telling what this group will do."

Citadel

Docking bay D-24

In one of the many docking bays a horde of civilians and reporters gathered to get a first glimpse at the newcomers, the only thing stopping them from pouring into the area was a well armed platoon of C-sec officers. Within the crowd a Asari reporter began to film.

"Naria' Malok of the citadel news net, breaking news from the Citadel. Moments ago a recently unknown fleet of three ships larger than the "destiny ascension" entered into the window system, these ships apparently arrived from a unheard of government called the OSA. At first it appeared as if an armed conflict was too ensue, fortunately both citadel and this OSA have agreed to speak to one and other."

The video feed then showed the three supercarriers, their size easily over shadowed any ship in Citadel space. As the camera captured the images the first of the drop shuttles were seen.

It wasn't long before the first of the OSA shuttles to arrive, the first three shuttles were Pelicans holding the OSA's guards. Once they landed squads of Spartans and Sangheili honor guards exited the crafts securing the area, to the surprise of the council races synthetic soldiers (presumably ) called specters were also present. Along with these warriors were the Arbiter Thel 'Vadam, and John 117 the Master Chief. The two were quick in aiding their allies as the area was now cleared for the OSA's diplomats, from the crowd two figures made their way to the Arbiter and Chief one a Turian C-sec commander and a Asari reporter creeping in behind him.

"Welcome to the citadel I'm executor Palli of citadel security, I've been sent to aid your subordinates in protecting your ambassadors and guide them to the council." The Turian C-sec officer explained. "If your men need assistance jus-." Suddenly the Asari reporter maneuvered passed Palli and began to question the OSA's personnel.

"Naria' Malok of the citadel news net, where does your organization originate from? Please state your porpoises and intent on the Citadel." The Asari questioned with a small floating camera over her shoulder, shining a light at both Arbiter and Chief.

"We are simply here to speak with your council and nothing more Asari." The Arbiter answered already annoyed by the reporter.

"Ma'am stay with the rest of the civilians now, we need a secured area." Chief added.

Palli signed two of his guards to escort the reporter back to the crowd, as she was escorted she continued to try to pry for answers.

"Sorry about that, it looks like your making quite the impression on everyone. So how much longer till your representatives arrive?"

"Not much longer, their shuttles were not far behind our own." Chief answered

As they finished speaking the remaining shuttles approached the docking bay, four new crafts two pelicans and two phantoms descended. From the first pelican the OSA's council arrived, accompanied with a few more honor guards. Following them were the kig-yar, Unggoy and Mgalekgolo representatives then the Huragok, yanme'e and Jiralhanae, from the final shuttle the Yautja, Twi'lek and spyglass finishing the list of representatives.

The council races were shocked to see so many new races, and a few that seemed to mimic their own. The crowd and reporters began to take photos of them, not wanting to miss this event.

"Are all of your representatives here, is there anyone left." The Turian officer asked, somewhat amazed by the sheer number of this organization.

Faith responded "We do have one more race, but sadly dude to their size they wouldn't fit though most of the citadel. Will have to discuss their arrival with your council."

"Understood. If all of you could follow me I'll take you to the council chambers. The council have already allowed for your guards to join us, I trust that they won't cause any trouble."

The OSA's representatives didn't hesitate as they formed up and followed Palli, their guards split into two groups one to protect the shuttles and another to protect the senators. As they walked through the docking bay and to the Presidium the OSA personal did take note of the citadel's interior, the lake, plants and statues making the citadel seem more peaceful then its people.

Unknown to the Citadel's civilians the machines (Spyglass and other specters) that all assumed to be more guards were in fact sentient, the OSA knew of the citadel's hostility toward synthetics and chose to keep this a secret until the meeting. As they made their way to the council tower the voices of many of the citizens were heard, each having their own opinion on each new race.

"Did you see the size of those ships, the forward cannons alone could destroy any of ours." A Salarian stated

"Comically, the short ones remind me of your race." An Elcor commented on the Unggoy to a Volus.

"The nerve of these upstarts accusing my people of attacking them, for all we know that footage was doctored." A Turian angrily voiced.

"What's up with all those machines today really need that many guards?"

"Those two races that look like Asari, I know a few people that would pay good money for a couple of them." A group of Batarians commented on the Human and Twi'lek personnel.

One thing that was definitely on everyone's mind, were any of these race joining the citadel?

Citadel

Council chambers

Once the OSA's senators reached the council's tower and climbed the many staircases, they finally reached the citadel council. The three councilors stood before them, as if they were the "top of the food chain". Camera crews also lined the walls, filming the meeting. The OSA's guards once again separated, while most stood in the lower area before the council's area Arbiter, Chief and Spyglass stayed with the senators. The council saw this as added security for their guests, and allowed it.

"Once again I welcome... all of you to the Citadel, and I do apologize for the actions of my fellow councilors race. We knew nothing of this until recently, I do hope we can settle this disputed peacefully." Tevos opened trying to ease tensions.

"Apologizes? It is long past the time for apologizes councilor, your so called peace keepers slaughtered our people for a crime we never knew of." Rtas accused clearly angrier by the hollow apology. "And that event started a domino effect witched led to us to capture one of your planets!"

"You upstarts have the nerve, to accuse my people of attacking you twice! I admit the first attack was uncalled for and the man in charge will be held responsible, but this "second attack" I have it on good authority that this fleet was to negotiate with you. The footage you broadcasted was most likely forged, no doubt to give you justification to attack our colony." Sparatus accused.

Faith then answered Sparatus "Do you truly believe that councilor, if so the you should take a look at this." From her hover chair faith opened a compartment and pulled out a black box, from the markings it was clear to be of Turian make. "This black box was retrieved from the flagship of the second attack, in it I believe you'll find your answers."

A OSA honor guard was given the box and proceed to deliver it to the council, once it was handed over Sparatus synced it to his terminal. He then displayed the boxes data the display was only in tex, from it the times of each event was shown. Leaving Palaven, the multiple relays, relay 314 then finally the battle. And their it was the proof, the black box documented the Turian's attack then taking enemy fire.

"Damned idiot."Sparatus said under his breath, seeing the incompetence of the leader of this fleet.

"It looks as though we are at fault, we shall stop all hostilities toward you. In return we ask for the return of our soldiers and colony."Valern offered.

"We had no intention of keeping any of your possessions councilors, we are simply here to establish a ceasefires and hopefully defined the borders between our two organizations." Keyes announced.

"This is good to here, but instead of drawing borders may I suggest you join the Citadel. We are both obviously advice people, we could learn a lot from each other." Tevos suggested

"Join the Citadel!? Sorry councilors but we must decline your offer." Rtas stated

All of the other representatives shared the same sentiment, some seemed to chuckle at the very idea.

"What?! This is unheard of do you know what your declining, why do you refuse?" The Salarian asked.

"Simply put your rules and your past actions give us pause to join you." The Twi'lek queen Aleana'Ora answered In a somewhat mocking tone.

"I believe it would be best to discuss this once all of our representatives arrive, if you would allow it we could transport them here via teleportation." Faith offered

"Why? We already gave you access to one of our docking bays why-" Sparatus questioned before he was interrupted by Valern.

"Teleportation?! Your people actually possess the ability to do such a thing, please could you demonstrate this." The Salarian asked excitedly.

"It's only one type of teleportation, created by our newest race called a ground bridge."

The senators gave a nod and Signal their guards to clear their area for the ground bridge, within a matter of seconds the area was cleared and one soldier contacted the Cybertronian's Ark. Suddenly a mass of green spiraling energy appeared, to all who saw this for the first time were nothing short of amazed. While the Cybertronian's space bridge was a long range means of transportation, the ground bridge was used for short range transport across a planet or to other ships. Looking into the green vortex a red and blue armored truck was seen traversing the vortex, the ground bridge was not a instant transportation rather it open a space that lead to two different areas. Tevos and Valern were amazed both took notes or recorded the sight, too study the vortex and hopefully recreate it. Sparatus on the other hand was slightly nervous as he saw the vehicle as a threat, secretly he began to press a button on his terminal summoning guards with sniper rifles to enter above them for added protection.

Once the vehicle exited the vortex it closed vanishing as if it never existed, the council watched to see this new race exit the vehicle only to see something amazing. The red and blue truck seemed to jump into the air, wheels moved, plates of metal shifted, arms and legs formed and a head appeared from the chest piece. The council races both present and watching the broadcast had just witnessed their first Cybertronian, he was Optimus prime leader of the Autobots. The council was dumbfounded as the sight of this machine was unexpected, but if this was their last representative then it is was an A.I.

"Councilors may I introduce Optimus prime leader of-"

It had taken just moments for their paranoia to kick in before Sparatus shouted. "Are you people insane creating an AI, and having the audacity to bring it here! You'll be the death of us all, decommission it or will take matters into our own hands."

Immediately from a level above them the guards who were summoned aimed there sniper rifles at Optimus, this drew the attention of the OSA's guards each rushed in aiming at a target. Chief and Arbiter both rush forward targeting the council, and acting as shields for the Senators.

"You have a lot of nerve Turian to demand anything from the one who have defeated you, especially asking us to kill one of our own." said the Yautja leader Adjudicator Bet-Karh.

"The OSA will never decommission our AI's over you fantasia fear that all AI's will rebel and attack their creators," Keyes stated

"Indeed we have never nor will we have any desire to fight against our creators, unless the lives of the innocent were involved." Spyglass spoke, showing he too was sentient.

Faith then tried to defuse the situation. "Everyone lower your weapons, we don't wish to add to this conflict.

Both sides were hesitant to complied but after the OSA's guards followed the order the Citadel soldiers shortly followed, lowering their weapons but ready for anything.

Before Sparatus or Valern could respond which they clearly wanted to, Tevos stepped in to stop tensions? "Please you must understand our concerns, for any space fairing race should know the dangers when it comes to A.I.'s."

This caused an uproar from the OSA as they began to give disapproving shouts and glares.

"We don't know the danger? Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but we've had the aid of A.l.s longer than any of your people." One representative shouted.

"Yes your A.I.'s have been obedient thus far, but how long until they turn on you?" asked Valern, his paranoia kicking in quickly. The OSA representatives were getting annoyed by the continued argument over their use of A.I.'s.

Tevos seeing how this bothered the ambassadors quickly tried to calm everyone down. "Please, we are only trying to make sure that history doesn't repeat itself like what happened to the Quarians."

It was Optimus who spoke next. "We have read the your codex on the war between the Geth and Quarians. From the sounds of what the codex say's it was the Quarians own fault for the war, the Geth simply defended themselves from behind wiped out, they did not turn against their creators as you so clam." There were murmurs of agreement between the OSA group.

Sparatus then became angered by the machines backtalk. "We wouldn't expect you an AI to understand, even if the Quarians had not attacked first the Geth would have eventually turned on them. That is the way of all synthetics, your kind have no need of organics."

We once too had the same fear, but after our experiences with them that fear became foolish." Another member of the OSA shouted

"Freedom is the right of all sentient beings," said Optimus pointing an accusing finger at the councillors. "Regardless of their makeup, whether it's Organic, synthetic, my kind or yours."

"And that is something we of the OSA agrees on." Keyes announced.

"The OSA? Can you please explain this to us, what is it that you young races keep referring to." Tevos asked.

"Young races you say I'm sorry to disappoint you councilors, but we are anything but "young races"." Faith expected. " I excuse you for not knowing who we are seeing as this is our first meeting, but my race, the Sangheili and the Yautja have been in our space age for over Three thousand years before your kind even discovered the citadel. We formed the Covenant and later with humanity the OSA. So if we're looking at age you're the youngest here, you my be able to understand us better after reading this." Faith once again handed a guard three data pads, holding the OSA's codex to deliver to the councilors.

Once the council were handed the data pads they began to look through them with great interest, they scrolled through it seeing the formation of the Covenant, the wars that "recruited" the other races, the multiple Unggoy rebellions, the human Covenant war and finally the most recent slaver wars, they were also surprised to read about the forerunners a race 50,000 years older and proteins. Each councilor read though the data pads each now worried about their new competition, they were no longer the only form of galactic government.

"I'll admit that it is impressive that a group outside of the citadel could form somethings this... impressive." Tevos stated unknowingly insulting the OSA

"This is an outrageous there cannot be two galactic governments, please reconsider joining us think of what we could achieve together!" Sparatus suggested

"I agree with Sparatus on this one," began Valern. "You have done well for yourselves thus far, but the responsibilities with forming this OSA may be too much for you to handle."

''You should consider joining the Citadel,'' said Tevos, ''we could learn much from each other, but of course there are certain conditions you must follow before joining the Citadel for our mutual safety.''

"*sigh* Like we've stated before we have no intention of joining you, your laws and your past question your capability to run a government." Rtas stated

"What do you mean by that, what possible reason do you have to reject this offer!"

"Besides the obvious the use of our A.I.s We have a problem with the treatment of the former races who once were under your banner, and your reluctance to enforce your own laws." Keyes accused.

Optimus then listed their disapproval. "The Quarians asked for your assistance with the Geth and you did nothing but send them into exile, the Krogan were up lifted to fight your war and then left to adapt to the space age without guidance, then poisoned by your Genophage when you couldn't negotiate with them. We question your ability to even lead your people." To many it was a shock to see a machine speak out against the treatment of both Quarian and Krogan.

Sparatus then answered clearly angered to be questioned for their actions. "The Quarians got what they deserved when they broke council law by creating the geth, their exile serves as an example to others who break this law.

"The Krogan are nothing more than savage brutes, we uplifted them to a new level and in return they tried to take over our Territories. It's in their nature if the Genophage was cured they would expand and seek revenge on us, it is their way." Valern answered.

The Jiralhanae leader Ulysses then voiced his opinion "Savage you say, sorry councilors but you know nothing of the meaning. My people nuked our home world multiple times while the Krogan did so once, we were a savage race that ate the flesh of our enemies and craved for war. But due to cultural changes and the help of our allies we were able to change.

"And my people have a similar problem as the Krogan in that we both have high birth rates, the Covenant impose large restrictions to prevent overpopulations, we even follow these rules to this day. Had you not left the Krogan to govern themselves through their warlords and helped them create a united government with birth control restrictions the Krogan rebellions would have likely have been avoided." The Unggoy representative added.

"In the Quarian's time of need you did nothing, no negotiates, no evacuation, no support of any kind. What's to say you would do the same to the other races under your banner. "Queen Aleana'Ora of the Twi'lek voiced her concerns.

"There's also your problem of slavery, though you have laws prohibiting this act like ourselves you willingly allow the Batarians to capture your people each year!" Adjudicator Bet-Karh shouted trying to dishonor the council.

It's not as simple as you put it. Slavery is deeply enrooted in their culture and to force this law on them would lead to conflict, they could see it as an infringement upon their ways and lead to war. Sadly to keep the peace we must sacrifice the few to save the many. Tevos answered

"Sorry councillor but as long as those terrible acts on another beings rights are being committed there is no such thing as peace," said Keyes.

"You also greatly insult my kind and the Kig'yar over the use of culture being the reason for you taking no actions," said Aleana'Ora.

"Agreed, the culture of my kind was greatly steeped in piracy, in the beginning of the OSA a faction of rebels called the Covenant remnants was formed with a large number of them being kig'yar pirates. After this conflict ended many of those pirates were killed or captured, this paved the way for my people to change, in the end it resulted in peace. Kig'yar's senator voiced

"The same happened for my kind, the OSA found that we practised slavery and gave us a warning to keep the practice to ourselves, but once we ignored the warning war broke out. Like the Kig'yar after the conflict ended those who wished to end this vile practice did so, my people may have had to end a former part of our culture but it was worth it to achieve peace." Aleana'Ora explained.

The Councillors were shocked at how the OSA had done things. Sparatus had been reading a bit more into the OSA's codex, Despite having great anger towards them he couldn't help but also feel jealous, as they were successful in riding their space of such low life's. He had no plan of showing it, of course.

Tevos and Valern were shocked by their actions this OSA seemed to be a similar faction as themselves at first, but they viewed their actions towards other races as savage. It seemed that those who followed the OSA had to follow all their rules, or be crushed.

"Regardless of how the OSA view's you, we did not come here to join and we definitely aren't here to discuss who is superior. We are here for a cease fire," said Faith.

Tevos could only nod her head in agreement. "I agree, we have gone off track as to why we are all here."

"Yes let us finish what we came here to do, as we said earlier will return your troops and planet but will need something in return."

"And what dare I ask, do you want?" Sparatus questioned

"First of all the Hierarchy as well as the Citadel will cease any further plans of attacking the our territory. You will also be required to pay reparations for those killed and the damage your men have done," said Keyes. Before Sparatus could object, Keyes continued

"We also wish to establish our territory, to better define this deal. The area around relay 314 has yet to be claimed by any race so will claim it for ourselves."

The council knew that they had to comply with the demands seeing that the OSA could at anytime change their minds, and hold their men prisoner and demand something larger. There was also the problem of the OSA's straight, as they had already defeated them multiple times, the question of rather or not the citadel was prepared for a full scale war against the OSA was clear.

"Fine we agree to your demand, I just hope you keep your end of this deal." The council reluctantly agreed.

"Well it is good to see that you can see reason councilors." Rtas said somewhat mockingly. "We shall send word to our forces on Vucrora to prepare to leave as soon as possible.

"Thank you for your time councilors, I wish that this meeting could have happened on more friendlier terms. Hopefully in time we could open trade routes, and actually help each other." Faith suggested

Once the meeting ended the OSA's representatives along with their guards headed back to the docking bay, another space bridge opened for Optimus sending him back to the Ark. As the OSA began to leave the council were left to think of what the future may hold.

Sparatus was easily the most ferrous of the three as the honor of not just the Turian people but all Council space had just been tarnished. They were no longer the only form of government anymore, and the idea of the lesser races leaving to join the OSA crossed his mind. They may have no choice but to lift some of their restrictions on fleet sizes just to keep their alliances. Sparatus swore that since that they were unable to retaliate against the OSA that the men that got them into this mess would pay.

Tevos focused on her terminal trying to find a way to fund their new experiences, without bankrupting the citadel. She then remembered what faith suggested about trad routes. The Asari then began to search through both citadel and OSA codex's, hopefully she would find something the OSA dose not have to trade and lesson their debt.

Unlike his fellow councilors Valern saw the OSA as a exciting challenge, as they would now have to focus on research and development programs to stand a chance against the OSA. His mind flooded with ideas of possible projects, he couldn't wait to test his theories.

April 7

Trebia System

Palaven

Hierarchy High Command

It had been two days since the OSA made their first appearance to the rest of the galaxy, yesterday the Turian prisoners held on Vucrora were released and two prisoners in particularly were now certainly standing before the Hierarchy's military council.

The two were Desolas Arterius and Tonn Actuss, like Artiums Vakarian days ago these two soldiers stood before their supporters ready to receive judgment for their actions. The room was filled with other high ranking officers besides the military Council, each hear either in person or by holo-projection waiting to see the punishment for Desolas's and Tonn's failures.

Captain Actuss was first, he approached the council. "Tonn Actuss before we render our verdict do you have anything to say in your defense?" General Bellatan H'chequan asked.

"I only followed our laws to the leader, I did what was expected of me nothing more nothing less." He announced proud of his actions, regardless of the consequences.

"So be it, we of this military council have no choice but to mark you as a war criminal and sentience you to life imprisonment. Your actions started us down this road now you must live with this mistake." The female science officer Araimer Boshan announced.

Once the military council gave their decision two guards approach Actuss, and escorted him away. Desolas Arterius was next, as he approached the council he could feel the glares of the others in the room. To all the other turians Desolas had disobeyed a direct order from Primarch Orano, but only Desolas and general Bellatan knew the whole truth.

The elderly Primarch then spoke. "Desolas Arterius your orders were to make peaceful contact with the race beyond relay 314, yet you disobeyed that command and attacked. The black box from your own ship proves this. Your actions have killed over three hundred Turians, and an additional four hundred Asari and Salarians. Before we render our verdict do you have anything to say in your defense?"

"I may have been given the order to make contact, but that order was charged to attack by one of my superiors." The audience of Turians were skeptical thinking Desolas was trying to push the blame on to someone else, Bellatan could only glare daggers at Desolas signaling him to keep quiet. "As I prepared my fleet five days ago general Bellatan offered me a chance to attack the enemy now known as the OSA, he promised that his engineers could rewrite the black boxes of my fleet, he planned to subdue the enemy and take their tech to hopefully retake the terminus systems. I was not alone in this plan." Desolas had decided to keep his word to Bellatan, if he was going down he would take Bellatan with him.

"That is a bold claim Desolas, do you have any proof of this." The Primarch asked

"Yes all of our military facilities are setup with a state of the art severity system, I'm certain that the one in communications caught something."

The council agreed to allow Desolas to defend himself even Bellatan with a slight smirk, multiple monitors began to play footage from the communications room from five days ago. As the footage started every one could see captain Vakarian working on a terminal until Saren and Desolas arrived, the group of three talked until Artiums left leaving the two brothers. Shortly after that Saren left leaving Desolas to prepare his fleet, strangely the footage continue only with no sign of general Bellatan. The footage ended with Desolas leaving the room with no other person in sight, at that moment it had occurred to Desolas that if the general had engineers skilled enough to alter the contents of a black box then they may also be able to edit a recording. The crowd now had no doubt of Desolas's guilt.

"If you have nothing else to show us Desolas then we must continue." Bellatan stated mocking Desolas.

"We find you guilty of your crime Desolas, and sentence you to life imprisonment." The Primarch announced disappointed in Desolas.

The crowd of Turian's began to cheer as they saw justice being done, none of them knowing the truth. Once the decision was made two more guards approached Desolas to escort him to his cell, Desolas could only look back at Bellatan hoping that one day he would get whats coming to him.

Cybertron

Iacon Autobot capital city

Iacon the capital of the Autobots a city once in shambles now steadily began the long process of rebuilding, after the war with the Decepticons ended the remaining Cybertronians focus on rebuilding their once great civilization. New and old buildings were created or restored with the aid of their new alliance with the OSA, the Decepticon prisoners that were captured in the attack of Kaon were now locked away in one of the many prisons they themselves built. But not all was well as within the capital building a meeting formed of Optimus and his top lieutenants now took place.

Within a secret room used to discuss sensitive matters a meeting of four Autobots was held, the four were Optimus his chief of research and development Ratchet, the new head of the Autobots military Ultra Magnus and Jazz representing the civilians of Cybertron. The group gathered to discuss the current problems they're facing.

"Jazz, Magnus have either of you found any energon cashes the Decepticons may have left behind?" Optimus asked beginning this meeting.

Ultra Magnus was the first to answer "Nothing, it's like they took everything that wasn't bolted to the ground."

"We only have our reservoirs of energon and the refinery shockwave used as his lab left on Cybertron, I've already done the math boss we only have close to eighty years worth of energon remaining." Jazz added alerting the others of the possible crises.

"We could existed our supply to one hundred years if we warn people now to conserve their usage,." Ratchet suggested

Ultra Magnus then added his own suggestion "We may have to ask for help from the senate, perhaps they could retrofit our ships to operate like their own. Or equip their ships with energon scanners, hopefully we're not the only planet with it."

"We'll alert the public as soon as possible, and I'll speak to the senate the next chance I get." Just then something had just popped into Optimus's head, a question that bothered him. "Why would Magatron leave with only what they could carry? Could he have a planed this far ahead, he is no fool he wouldn't leave without a backup plan."

"It's possible sir, but with no leads on their whereabouts we can only speculate."

"Actually I may be able to add to this theory."

Ratchet answer.

"Recently a report from the teams we've sent into Iacon's archives have arrived, and they've seemed to have discovered what the Decepticons stole while they were there. Besides the obvious space bridge schematics, there seems to be missing schematics for a energon refinery and mining projects. They've also discovered a problem with the crypt of the first primes, it would appear that the remains of Amalgamous Prime were disturbed, and his T-Cog and a few other components were removed."

After hearing this news from Ratchet Optimus and Magnus faces grew dim over the possible danger, but jazz only looked confused.

"What? Could someone fill me in, I'm not a history buff what was so important about this prime?" Jazz questioned

"He was one of the original primes each of them had a unique ability, or tool he was no exception. He was known as"Tthe Shape shifter", and possessed a T-Cog capable of transforming into anything... including duplicates of other Cybertronians." Optimus answered

"If the Decepticons were to learn how it works and implant it into one of their subordinates, they could very well infiltrate our ranks and leak vital information on us or our allies." Ratchet explained

"When could they have done this? Do you really think they were capable of effectively implanting it into someone?"

"I wouldn't put it past them, Shockwave has always been known as one the smartest Cybertronians of our time."

"Think about it the days before and during our final attack against the Decepticons we've took in every "Autobot" we found without a second thought, a spy could have slipped into our ranks without us knowing it." Magnus stated thing like the enemy.

"We'll have to step up security make sure no unauthorized communications are sent, and warn our men we may be able to catch this intruder before it's too late."

"No informing our troops would only alert this spy if it exist, for now we will deal with internally. Optimus ordered.

Unknown arm of the Galaxy

Unknown system

Within the depths of space a fleet of hundreds of damaged ships drifted aimlessly with no direction, these ships were the fleet of the Decepticons that had fled from Cybertron days ago. After they entered their Space bridge fueled by dark energon they were left powerless in space, a unexpected side effect of their escape plan. Many of the ships were disassembled and added to the other remaining ships, Arielbots were seen transporting parts to and from each ship in hopes of bringing them back online.

Onboard their flagship "The Nemesis" the leader of the Decepticons Magatron sat on his throne hands together planning his next move, around him his troops constantly scrambled trying to make the repairs to the ship. This had been going on for days since they exited the space bridge, one of the many Decepticons in the room an Arielbot began to glare at his leader with resentment and approached him.

"So was this your plan "oh glorious leader", to strand us out in the middle of nowhere?! I think it's time for new leadership preferably someone who wouldn't lead us to our death!" The Arielbot was the Decepticon's wing commander Starscream, having one of his arm behind his back Starscream prepared his weapon. This caught everyone's attention, all present wished to see this display.

"The Decepticons were on the verge of winning the war but your leadership has cost us everything, it's time for a real leader to rise, to bring the Decepticons back to their glory, to- BAM!

Before Starscream could finish his speech or draw his weapon Magatron back handed the former Autobot across the room, like an insignificant fly leaving a dent on the wall. The other Decepticons began to laugh at the humiliated arielbot as he slowly made his way to his feet.

"Know your place Starscream, you should consider yourself lucky I choose to keep you around. For all I know you could still be in league with the Autobots, you were quick to switch sides."

"What?! No lord Magatron I would never betray you!" Starscream stated, quickly hiding his weapon. "I was simply trying to fire you up, to...to show the of the men why your still in charge." He used his silver-tongue to weasel his way back into Megatron's good graces.

"Get up and return to your post before I change my mind." Megaton knew how treacherous Starscream was, but with so few Decepticons still under his command he couldn't be picky of who followed him. Starscream's words did catch the attention of his crew, and few may have begun to question his leadership.

Magatron then stood to address the Decepticons on his ship "Once we make our repairs, find a suitable base and make the necessary preparations well return stronger than ever! The Autobots and their pathetic allies this OSA will be nothing more than a foot note on our conquest!" The audience of Decepticons erupted into cheers, bloodthirsty for a fight. As Magatron finished speaking the ship's power came back online, lights were turned on and monitors we displaying information on the fleet. On two of the monitors the faces of the Decepticon's chief science and intelligence officers were shown, they were Magatron's most trusted subordinates Shockwave and Soundwave.

The screen displaying Soundwave was the first to respond. "Lord Magatron the repairs on our fleet are compleat! We may have had to sacrifice a few of our lesser ships ("and their crews" he said under his breath) but we are fully operational." Soundwave announced proudly as from behind him the sound of many insecticons was heard.

"I can't believe the two of you agree to bring those creatures with us, we'll at least if they go wild and start killing our troops you'll be the first to know Shockwave." Starscream stated clearly happy to be on a separate ship from the savage insecticons.

"Some maybe savage and under developed but a few appear to have grown rather intelligent, one calling itself Tarantulas has proved to be surprisingly clever, I just might make him my new apprentice."

Magatron grew annoyed by their conversation quickly and interrupted them. "Shockwave status report...NOW."

"Yes sir, my apologies. *ahem* though the space bridge I've constructed fueled by dark energon did delivered us from capture it also overpowered our systems causing major malfunctions to all ships, but of course you already knew that. Even after my repairs on the fleet our ship's engines are only operating at fifty percent, we are in no position to go on the attack I recommend we find some safe refuge."

"And communications, can we make contact with Cybertron?"

"Negative ether our long range comm-links are down or were so far from Cybertron we can't make contact."

"Lord Magatron there is some good news." the screen displaying Soundwave finally spoke. "I've been working on our scanners and found what appears to be a large energon signature a few light years away from us." Soundwave alerted with his auto tuned voice.

"Excellent, shockwave how long until we reach the source of this energon signature?"

"It would take us five galactic years in our certain states, I recommend that all nonessential personnel be put into stasis while the remaining few continue to repair and maintain the fleet, to conserve energon."

"...Do it, Soundwave Shockwave I want both of you in charge while the rest of us are out, be sure you don't fail me."

"Yes sir!"

"I'll stay online to... Protect the ship and you sire." Magatron only shot Starscream a look that would make anyone rethink their next actions. "...or not I'll just power down in the corner."

One by one Decepticons on all ships went into stasis obeying the order of their leader, the only exception were the ones chose to maintain the fleet. Magatron was the last to power down, insuring that no one would double cross him. The fleet soon shifted and made its was to their next destination, the war against the Decepticons was far from over.

Timeline

2620- The Citadel council along with their ambassadors arrive to High Charity escorted by a OSA fleet, the Citadel's representatives were speechless to see High Charity a larger structure then their Citadel. The negotiations started on the Citadel continued with nether side convincing the other to join them, but a treaty was developed and signed.

The OSA/Citadel treaty forbids the trade of power generators, advanced computer systems, Slip space/ hyperspace drives, weapons both military and conventional, medical technologies, and Forerunner research and technologies. Items for trade would be the following: resources, outdated systems, cultural media, food, and outdated civilian technologies. Next, trade will be done on a planet of the OSA's choosing. finally all discoveries regarding either Prothean or Forerunner will be handed over to their respective governments, Much to the displeasure of the Citadel's representatives they had to accept.

Embassy's are constructed on both High Charity and the Citadel to keep ties with one another.

With an outrageous debt owed to the OSA for the Turain's attacks earlier that year, councilor Tevos plains to market the omni-tool to the OSA hoping to make a dent in their debt. Some worried that this would be in violation of the treaty regarding "advanced computer systems", Tevos simply states that the omni-tool is a mundane tool used by all for many years and cannot be classified as advanced. The omni-too is a success selling all across the Orion arm, the Citadel's debt is greatly lessened.

2521- A trade agreement between the Unggoy and the Volus is reached. The increase in wealth allows both parties to upgrade their equipment, the Volus no longer make a *gasping* sound while the Unggoy translators come in a variety of voices

- The first OSA colony of Elysium beyond relay 314 is founded, and is chosen as per the trade agreement between the OSA and Citadel as the planet in which trade between both governments will be done. Tensions rise as the Citadel Council demand that Elysium have no orbital defense platforms unless approved by Citadel inspectors. The OSA Senate had this to say: "If the Citadel Council does not like that we put defenses to protect not only our people but theirs, that makes us question their motives. Nonetheless, if the Council doesn't like it, they don't have to build a hub on the planet to exchange goods and trade.'' The Citadel Council responded to their statement ''We do believe in protecting the races of the Citadel, but we won't risk the potential for an enemy to take control of these defenses so that they could be used on our people.'' After much debate and many threats, the OSA Senate and Citadel Council had come to a compromise. There would only be two ODP stationed at Elysium without Citadel-approved inspectors checking it.

With an ever increasing OSA presence the Citadel Council plan to focus on their research and development departments, in hopes to one day be on par with the OSA. Groups dedicated in weapons, space flight and A.I defenses are created.

Religious zealots from both OSA (mainly San'Shyuum) and Citadel (mostly Hanar) clash, both sides claimed that ether the Forerunners or protheans were the true gods of the cosmos.

2522

A multitude of OSA races are exposed to element Zero. Due to its dangers Element Zero causes to regular people and side effects to those who survive, the OSA begin working on medical technologies that can help those who were exposed. After trial and error, they have made a way for those who were exposed to be able to use bioitics and for any offspring to possess such abilities as well.

The OSA builds Gagarin station to be a biotic research and training facility for all alien races in the OSA and it is placed near Shanxi.

The potential for biotics for some OSA species are firmly established. Humans and Twi'lek are capable with assistance from the medical technologies, Jiralhanaes are natural when exposed to eezo, Sangheili and Yautja are rare and few, Unggoy are capable with help, Kig-yar, Yanme'e, Mgalekgolo, and Huragoks do not possess any potential for biotic abilities. Only the San Shyuum do not participate in these studies. The Biotic Acclimation and Temperance Training (BAaT) program is set up on Gagarin Station to train potential candidates and develop biotic implants.

2623

With the aid of slip-space and hyperspace technology the OSA discover a vast number of habitable worlds, worlds that the Citadel races could never reach limited by their mass relays. This marked the beginning of the OSA's expansion further into their new Territory, and closer to the Skyllian Verge.

The Citadel Council promotes a opportunity to obtain credits. Anyone capable of discover/create anything that could advance the Citadel races in anyway could possibly be funded by the Citadel. Almost instantly scientists, engineers and explorers seemed to arrive from every corner of Citadel space hoping to make a name for themselves.

2624

Saren Arterius is made the youngest specter on record.

The colony and defenses on Elysium are finished, both OSA and Citadel profit from the exchange of goods and cultures.

On the Krogan home world of Tuchanka sighting of Salarians near the Shroud facility are reported by a nearby clan, this Krogan clan investigate the area only to find nothing. The Salarian government refuse the claims.

2625

One of the citadel's research facility's has gone dark, attempts to contact the facility have all failed. With a facility holding the Citadel's projects and secrets the Council form a task force to investigate.

Author's note: welcome back and thanks for reading. Sorry for the two mouth wait but again a few games I've been waiting for were released and one of the story's that inspired this one was officially cancelled so yeah that took me out of the writing mood for a while.

Anyway this is a heads up on next few chapters

Next chapters in order

:In darkness

:Skyllian blitz

:Eden prime

Well till next time.