I'm really sorry guys for the long wait, but things have been hellish here in my life. You know, projects, life stuff and all to take care of. But I didn't forget this story and you, so here it is. Chapter 4, fresh and ready to read!

Happy reading!

Chapter 4 - Awkward Negotiations

Earth, China

UHS HQ

The headquarters of the United Humanoids, popularly known as the Legion, continued the same way after four decades since the Ouroboros Incident. It still was the place where the most important meetings that decide the path of the Humanoid civilization occurred. The hyperbolic structure made of Titanium-X and glass, dating from the Neo Arcadian age, remained unscathed emphasizing those years that both symbolized hope for a humanity in decay and the horror of the mass genocide of millions of innocent Reploids. It was about that same time the Legion was created in order to unify the two races. Founded by the three masters of science, Mikhail, Thomas e Albert, she gradually won its goals by implementing laws that formalized equality between humans and Reploids, thus forming the Humanoid race.

At presente, the Legion continued its supreme political organ status on the world stage. Along with its duties from the old days, it was now responsible for promoting equality and harmony among the nations that were being rebuilt after the Mavericks no longer posed a real threat. With a small change, however. As Master Albert was killed during the Ouroboros Incident after joining with Model W, the remaining masters had to look for a new one to take his place and recompose the Sage Trinity. It was then that they found a scientist of a value that matched their own. His name was Cain, named in honor to the man who found the Father of all Reploids.

At that very moment, Master Mikhail was walking in circles as he scratched his long gray mustache in the Masters Chamber which was located at the top of the tower and where you could see almost the entire city of Shanghai. His colleagues, Thomas(1) and Cain, knew that he usually did this when he was in his own world of thoughts, and the whole present situation asked for such thing.

It had been about 46 minutes ago that they received a message from Prairie about the episode on Shanxi which had left them uneasy until now. They never predicted they would find an alien civilization so soon after three decades of space expansion, less yet start a conflict on first contact. According to what Prairie had said, it was high likely the aliens would start a counterattack very soon, which was the last thing they wanted.

Master Thomas, who sat on his imposing throne, watched carefully every step taken by Mikhail and his cane in form of a key, finally broke the silence contained therein.

"Mikhail, please calm down. You have behaved like this for almost half an hour and the noise of your cane is already beginning to a torment to my hearing systems." He said with an exasperated sigh. Master Thomas was a large tanned-skinned man with a long wild mane of red hair and a matching beard, invoking a bit of a lion theme. Like his fellow colleagues, he wears the standard Sage Trinity attire; a light purple form-fitting robe with a white cloth draped over the shoulders. He carried a rectangular heavy sword sheathed in red attire with an inscription of the Sage Trinity.

"How can you stay calm in a situation like this?" Mikhail said at the same time trying to control his voice before his colleague. "We are in the middle of a crisis and we do not even know who we are dealing with! What do you think will happen when the citizens get word of that, huh? Oh, I know what will happen. Overall Panic!" Master Mikhail was a very short and hunched elderly man with a more mechanical appearance, wearing a gold-plated mask with three pivoting lens for eyes. The only visible part of his body being a large pointed nose, a long gray mustache and short pointed hair. Also, he always carried his precious key-like cane. Contrary to what many thought about him, Mikhail was a human.

While maintaining a more controlled posture, Thomas knew his colleague was indeed telling the truth. If any of such information was transmitted to the servers of the cities, fear would spread through the public. But his confidence towards the SolForce wasn't yet waned.

"I'm sure Aile and Grey are already working on it. Both are interrogating that prisoner they captured at this moment." Mikhail didn't look convinced.

"I doubt they can stop an invasion with only a handful of prisoners asking his countrymen not to attack us. Those two are still naïve even after all these years." He said unkindly, but not for lack of respect. He knew very well what the couple, considered heroes until today, have done for the whole civilization since they were young. However, this was now a political scenario of galactic proportions, something they had little experiences whatsoever. Merely thinking about it, made him tremble.

"I agree with Mikhail, Thomas." Cain intervened in the discussion. Master Cain was a medium-sized man with a long dark blue hair in ponytail. His eyes matched his hair color and he always carried on his back his small version of X's capsule. "SolForce just relocated the Alpha Fleet to Shanxi system in order to protect it from this new threat. We know that they are not deeply skilled diplomats to be effective in this occasion, unless their diplomacy is war. However, I must emphasize Aile and Grey are both leaders of the SolForce and from what I have seen of them in their random visits here, the two are like missionaries of peace despite Aile being a bit temperamental. So, I know they will do everything in their hands to make a peace agreement with the aliens." These words echoed in Mikhail's mind.

He sighed in defeat. "You are right, Cain. It was an inconvenient disregard."

"I'm sure they will forgive you, old friend. Now, to the urgency at our doors, what should we do?"

"We must send one of our diplomats to Shanxi. Accordingly, the UHS may also participate in any diplomatic negotiations occurring in the area, just in case. Also, a lockdown on Shanxi-Theta system will avoid any unauthorized interference." Cain suggested and then continued. "Depending on the outcome, I think we should also spread the news to the public. I believe this will ease their fears."

Thomas nodded in his response. "Yes, I think we should. They will find out sooner or later anyway."

"It's just a shame X and Zero are not here to witness this moment. I'm sure both would be excited to see everything we have accomplished in these years of peace." Mikhail forced a sad smile while staring at the ceiling as if he suddenly thought it was fascinating. In fact, he had met X before when he was still simple scientist back in Neo Arcadia. Too bad he had to sacrifice his own body to imprison the Dark Elf.

"True. May both find the rest they had long been searching for." Cain praised them as well the others with a few seconds of silence in their honor.

Once finished, Thomas walked to his terminal to send a message back to the Nuaque and warn Grey of their plans.

Shanxi-Theta System

SFV Nuaque

Meanwhile, inside Grey's ship, Captain Aktis participated in a tour through the sectors of the ship. Along with Grey, Aile and Albion, the group presented each place ranging from the enormous mass effect drive to the bridge itself. Aktis was a really good student despite he had to make an effort to understand much of the details about the technology and science behind it. When he made a question about the teleport system, Albion took the opportunity and gave him a complete scientific explanation which made the Turian's head spin.

Aside from the prying eyes of the crew here and there, Aktis was enjoying interacting with this new civilization. Aile and Grey were not lying when they said the Humanoids were generally very friendly. Proof of this was the random courageous people who interrupted the tour just to have a word with him. In the coffee break at the cafeteria, he almost became a celebrity. Some of the crew asked permission to Grey and Aile to take a picture with him and then show their families. Aktis wasn't used to the spotlights like the Turian heroes were, but he tried to be attentive to everyone.

When the show was done, the group picked their foods on the counter and took their seats.

"So Aktis, do you have family?" Aile asked while she chewed some strawberries.

"Yeah. My wife and my daughter." He answered with a small hint of pride. In fact, his family was his biggest treasure, especially when it came to his daughter Lilis. She was a beauty combined with an unmatched willpower which her perfect to follow her ultimate dream. She wanted to be a Spectre. She wanted to be part of the most feared and honored rank of Citadel space. When she first told him, he was a bit skeptical but he knew deep down she could do it. After all, she was more attached to his side of work than her mother.

"A year from now, my daughter will enter the military training. She wants to be a Spectre after she is graduated." He added.

"What is a Spectre?" Grey asked.

"Spectre is the popular name given by the citizens of the Citadel. The organization's real name goes by Special Tactics and Recon. To summarize, Spectres are the first and the last of the Council as well as being the holders of galactic peace. They are agents that only answer directly from the councilors and there are no laws to stop them from doing what is necessary to complete their missions." He explained.

"Don't you think that giving so much power to an individual will corrupt him?"

"That's why each member is rigorously trained by the best tutors and also watched closely by the Council itself. Any attitude that leads to this type of behavior will be severely punished in addition to being expelled from the organization forever. By the way, I believe that will witness one soon enough."

"Do you really think they would come here?" This time, it was Prairie who asked it. She joined the group again shortly after they got to their seats.

"Very likely. Both the Council will send a diplomat here if the STG has revealed the details of the incidente. Knowing the Salarians, I believe a ship should be already on its way. He explained as he watched his hosts eat. If it wasn't for his damned genetics, he would join them as well.

"We are also bringing a diplomat of our own, but Aile and Grey will be present when negotiations start." Prairie reported and then looked directly at both commanders. "They are sending emissary Angelus. His ship will arrive here in one hour."

Grey's facial expression instantly changed from curiosity to anger in matter of seconds, and for a good reason. "I can't believe they have sent above everyone else."

Aktis stared at him a bit confused. "Is there a problem, Commander?"

Angelus is one of the best diplomats hired by our government and I truly recognize his expertise in his field. But the problem itself isn't him. It's that bastard he calls as his assistant, that Donnel Udina. One day, that guy is going to be a pain on my back." He explained.

The Turian chuckled. "Hah, you should see Citadel politicians. They do their jobs really well, but their bureaucracy is annoying."

Then a brief silence took hold of them as each ate their respective meals with exception of Aktis. This lasted until Albion was the first to finish his favorite dish picked with rice, beans, pasta and roast beef. Normally, Reploids don't need to eat in order to survive since they can absorb sun light as energy source to stay alive. However, food became a courtesy since they became more in tone with the humans.

"Aktis, why didn't you get your food?" Albion asked inquisitively.

"It's a bit complicated. I take it you are familiar with aminoacids, right?" They all nodded in response. "Okay, Turians are made of the dextro-aminoacids which is the opposite of the levo side. This means if we consume something made of the former compound, it will cause an allergic reaction which most definitely kill us. So, I can't say for sure I can safely eat the type of food you do without knowing that."

The Humanoids narrowed their eyes at confusion. "Strange, we eat both types and nothing happen to our bodies. I didn't think there would be an issue among them." Aile commented.

"Lucky you. We are the only ones in Citadel Space who are dextro-aminos, so our food has to be very specific to my kind. But taking that aside, I believe it's your turn to present yourselves since I did talk about my family."

Grey chuckled slightly. "Seems fair. At least, I think it won't be necessary to present my family to you since you already know them."

Aktis stared. "Do I?"

"Yes, Aile here is actually my wife and Albion is our son."

Aktis was surprised at this. In Turian military, it is forbidden to have any kind of relationship with another soldier. And for good reason. Turian soldiers needed their hearts to be steeled in order to be able to do anything to achieve victory for the Hierarchy. This kind of freedom was strange to him.

"You are quite different indeed. If this kind of thing happens to me, for example, I would be facing martial courts and probably imprisonment for years."

Aile laughed at that. "Yeah. Until a few years ago, it was it was also forbidden for until the UHS loosened the law a bit. The military can now have their relationships between each other, but only in their private moments. If a couple is caught in an environment that does not allow such kind of behavior, they shall be punished by expulsion. This also serves for both of us."

Aktis nodded. "I understand. I suppose this must be hard for you."

"Well, in our early years things were quite difficult. But we got used to it." Grey explained.

"So Aktis turned to Albion. "So Albion, how old are you?"

"Depends." He replied briefly.

"Depends? How so?" Albion countered Aktis head tilt with a chuckle.

"Which age you want to know. My mind works like a 17 year old boy, but I was only activated for the first time four years ago. So, I guess I'm technically four years old then."

"Wait a minute. What do you mean by 'activated'?"

"My body is completely robotic and my mind is formed by a singular Artificial Intelligence." He explained as if it was common knowledge to everyone there.

The issue was that it really was common for their civilization, but when it came to someone from Citadel Space it wasn't something good. After the Geth rebellion, the Council began to repudiate the creation and manipulation of Artificial Intelligences as form of preventive response to a possible betrayal. In the end, the Citadel was the first establishment which got purged of AI systems, followed by each specie's domain.

At the first bid, Aktis didn't seem to register what the young Reploid had just said.

"I'm sorry, what?"

"I'm a synthetic, Captain. Actually, most of the crew here are like me."

Aktis' mandibles flared in amazement. A part of his mind begged that was a bad joke, but he could see in their eyes that wasn't.

Still flaring, he asked. "So, you mean your race is basically formed of AIs?"

"No. Reploids, which are the synthetic part of our people, represent approximately 53% of us while humans, like me, represent the other 47%. Together, we call ourselves the Humanoids to represent the equality between us. To know who is who, just look at our foreheads. Reploids normally have a red triangle marks or crystals like Albion has and humans don't have such thing. And we have the Biometals," Aile pointed to Model X, Z and A, "who are special form of AIs as they possess the consciousness of the Legendary Heroes." She explained, though a bit confused to the captain' sudden behavior.

"So, those are AIs too? And who are these Legendary Heroes?"

"First answer, yes. And second, the Legendary Heroes are warriors of centuries ago who fought for our survival. There was seven of them: X, Zero, Harpuia, Leviathan, Phantom and Fefnir." Aile held her Bracer while showing holoimage of each of them. "X and Zero were the most special among them however. X is considered the Father of all Reploids because it was from his design that the Reploid race was built on. Although he was a pacifist, he was the most powerful being ever created by man. Zero was X's best friend and his partner in the battlefield, and like X his origin dated the same time . He was a master of the close combat style with his famous lightsaber. The other four were X's creations in order to protect Neo Arcadia that was a sanctuary for humans at the time." She then looked at Grey indicating to proceed.

"My Biometal, Model A here, is diferente in this case. He hasn't the mind of a Legendary because he was created with one of his own by a mad scientist named Albert, hence the acronym. Before he could fall into the wrong hands, I saved him thus also becoming a Megaman."

"Megaman?"

Grey nodded. "Megaman is the name given to an individual who possess a Biometal. He is able to activate the power of the M.E.G.A. (Meta-Encapsulated Granule Awareness) System that makes it attach to the host body while forming an armor with similar abilities as the Heroes had. Besides that, the person will also be able to hear them, but they only interact with DNA(2) compatible Chosens."

"So, they talk?" Aktis slightly montioned specifically to Model X as he was the one closer to him.

"Only if you are compatible with one of them, which is impossible by the way. Biometals were only made to interact with their Chosen Humanoids." Aile said smiling as one of the Turian's claws were curiously approaching Model X which, by the way, was floating motionless a bit close in front of him. "Relax, X won't hurt you. He 's just curious like you are." After a brief glare, Aktis finally made contact with the Biometal. Once he touched it, he felt a small vibration in his muscles as if he had taken a shock.

"X says you're a good man, Aktis."

The Turian was surprised at this. "I thought he could only interact with your species."

"True, though X is able to read anyone's personality and emotions no matter the species. However, he usually does that in a certain distance, so your case was special since it was his first time accessing an alien frame. Simply put, that shock you felt was him absorbing some of your brain waves to process what he did."

"Wow. Incredible indeed; but troublesome." Aktis said putting some more stress on troublesome. Those Humanoids were in trouble.

"Why troublesome?" Grey asked curiously.

Aktis sighed while he tried to compose himself. "Commander, I believe you are facing a big problem. You see, the Council had implemented a law that allows any capable individual to destroy with any remorse any sign of AIs in our systems. Since the Geth, it has been like that in Citadel Space."

"Who are these Geth?" Prairie asked. Aktis glanced briefly at her forehead and identified her by the red triangle on her forehead.

"The Geth are Quarian creations." He activated his omni-tool and showed a small hologram of a random Geth and then a random Quarian. "They are synthetic like you, but I think they are less advanced than you are. We know very little about them since the Quarians keep all the details in well-preserved custody.

Grey hummed in thought. There was something in what Aktis said that didn't sound good."Are they enemies of the Council?" He asked.

"The Geth are despite they have never left the Perseus' Veil where Rannoch is located. Ever since then, the Quarians had been isolated from everyone somewhere, surviving on their own."

The Humanoids felt pity over them as they tried to simulate their situation. Albion was the one who was affected the most, though he didn't show it.

"Is there anything we can do for them?" Prairie asked. Aktis chuckled at the girl-robot's naivety. That made him even more surprised because AIs should not be able to feel emotions such as compassion, pity or any other kind of feelings. At least as far as he knew. Despite being friendly with these Humanoids, he knew he had to be alert at the same time. After all, AIs were also capable of betrayal.

"In all honesty miss, I doubt the Quarians would accept any help from your kind so freely."

"Why wouldn't they accept?"

"Because you won't find another person who hates AIs more than a Quarian. After the exile out of Rannoch, they have been living inside their Migrant Fleet in search of a suitable place to colonize and settle down; no planet stood up for them. Until today, they blame the Geth for putting them into their daily misery which grew to an all-out hatred for all synthetic life. Moreover, we don't know where the Migrant Fleet sails to now after they decided to hide in uncharted regions of the galaxy." And considering that the Council has been refusing to give any aid to them just makes their survival even harder, to the point where they had to create the Pilgrimage ritual.

"I see." The frustration was quite evidente on Prairie's face, but she knew there was nothing the Humanoids could do to help them at the moment.

After a few minutes, everyone finished their meals which made Aktis stand up a beat later. "Well, our tour has been fun and interesting although certain truths were a bit scary. But I think it's time to see my crew again.

Grey smiled. "Alright then. As I said before, you will find that your concerns aren't necessary. Since we dragged you here, they remained untouched."

The Turian hummed. "I do hope you speak the truth." He still had his suspicions, but the situation forced him to follow the Grey's words. There's nothing he could do about it anyway.

Time Skip: Approximately 1 hour

The last 64 minutes had quite busy for Aktis. Once he arrived in his ship along with Grey, Aile and Albion (Prairie stayed in the Nuaque to receive Angelus), he went straight to crew blocks where Grey had said they were being held. Much to his relief, they were well like he was told. After a warm reunion, he informed them of what had happened since his absence. From the moment he stepped in the Nuaque until when he left it, of course omitting the fact of the AI issue by Grey's request. To say their reactions were skeptical was an understatement, however, they had no reason to disbelieve on their captain's words. With everything going according to the plan, Grey allowed the Turians to take the ship back to normal procedures, much to their appreciation.

With the systems back online, Aktis could now fulfill his part of the deal. He made sure his communications officer sent out a ping to the nearest Citadel ship in order to pinpoint the nature of the Council's response. He had to admit the whole enigma of the situation left him nervous. He was quite familiar to STG's ways of getting their intel since he had worked with their agents aboard the Zethus about four times in the past, but there was another part of him that expected the contrary. He hoped that was just his brain playing tricks.

Behind him, his guests weren't so touched to the situation as they appeared to be. But deep down, he knew they were acting just like him. He couldn't blame them though, First Contacts are always like that. You can't predict what the other side will do until it's too late. That aside, there was the AI issue. The Council will most likely disagree in brokering an alliance with the Humanoids as this would be a disservice to their law. However, the Humanoids unknowingly had an advantage at this point. At the bridge of the Zethus, Aile showed him the overall territory they have under their control on the galaxy map. It was divided mainly by four colored fields: blue was the southwestern and western sides of the galaxy which contained Citadel territories, red to the north and northeast which were the Terminus Systems, gray as Attican Traverse at the east and southeast which was the frontier between the first two domains; and finally, in orange, the Humanoid territory which was located a bit close to the southwest border of Citadel Space (namely Turian and Salarian territories). That meant the Citadel couldn't make a move into the Traverse without risking a war with Terminus.

Another fact, much to Aktis' ever growing surprise, was that Humanoid borders had already extended to the middle of the Traverse, in less than 30 years as Aile had said. No civilization, either advanced or not, couldn't have a wide presence like that without a large navy to protect the colonies. However, the Humanoids counted with a massive orbital shipyard on Earth which aided in the production effort of the SolForce armada. He wasn't given an exact number of Humanoid ships that were out there, but, if their wide domain was any indication, he judged it could be bigger than the Turian Navy itself.

As he went on with his thoughts, he didn't hear his comm officer calling him. "Sir!" It was at the second time that Aktis broke from his trance.

"What?"

"We have a response not too far from the other side of the relay. It's the Serenity from the Asari Republics." Serenity was one of many civilian vessels the Asari used for their interstellar negotiations.

"Patch them through."

A beat later, the holoscreen showed what appeared to be an alien version of the human race. The "woman", as the female features were quite evident on her face, was blue-skinned and had some kind of bluish tentacles that went straight to the back of the head. (Description of the Matriarch vestments.)

"This is Matriarch Eolina from the Serenity. Is that really you, Captain Aktis? I heard your ship stayed behind to save the Resolute against the aliens." Her voice was calm, but she didn't hide her tone of surprise. Good thing he had yet to give the Asari language code to Grey and the others, otherwise her statement would only make the conversation more awkward.

"Indeed, madam. However, I must say this was entirely Captain Lykon's fault as he neglected first contact procedures when we sighted the new species and started the conflict." At this, the Matriarch narrowed her eyes.

"Really? Hmm, I shall add this to my report back to the Council. So, I assume this new species is friendly? You are still alive, I mean."

Aktis nodded. "Yes. They understood the whole situation was a big misunderstanding and forgave our action. After some hours of debate, they want to establish a peace treaty with us." Something is off, Eolina thought. How could he have any conversation with them knowing that he couldn't understand them? But she let the captain proceed on his report. "You may not believe it madam, but they had translated the Turian language in matter of hours! They even gave the courtesy of uploading their language in my omni-tool. I'm sending it to you right now as I believe it'll prove to be useful when talking to the Humanoids."

"'Humanoids'? Is that how they are called?"

"Yes, madam."

"Understood. We are approaching the relay, ETA 5 minutes until jump."

"Matriarch, be advised, the other side is heavily crowded. Proceed nicely."

Then with a nod, Eolina cut the comm link leaving Aktis panting heavily with relief. The Council acted as how he had expected. Then, he turned to the Humanoids behind him who had inquisitive looks on their faces.

"Who was that?" Grey asked not before letting the captain get some air.

"That was Matriarch Eolina. She is one of the most influent Asaris inside their republic and even more outside it. However, she is better known for her diplomacy which is, as I heard, quite efficient. No wonder the Council chose her above the others. Eolina is also known to have succeeded in some hardest negotiations ever done by the Citadel parties." Aktis said.

"Then let's hope she is more open-minded than the rest of your Citadel." Aile sighed as she exited the room to prepare herself followed by Grey. Albion, however, insisted on staying with Aktis as he wanted to keep him company and chat a bit.

For a moment, both stood focused at the relay a few good thousands away from them, each refusing at the other. Until Albion went on first.

"So, what's your opinion?"

Aktis looked at him confused. "About what?"

"About my civilization. Are we what you expected as an AI-based race?"

Instead of a direct answer, the Turian turned his head back to the relay. "I'll be honest with you, Albion. At first, I thought your race was very much like the stories the Council told about your kind. However, when your dad fulfilled his deal with him, I couldn't help but feel you were different and that is what made me help you to this point. I can't say everyone will be happy with what I did when the news reach the four corners of the galaxy, but I did what I thought it was right."

Albion patted his back. "And you did. Judging by your Citadel first contact law, you did what you were expected to do. Besides, you already told that Matriarch it was the other captain's fault so I guess everything will turn out to be just as fine."

Hearing him made Aktis chuckle. He reminded him of his old man. "You sure know how to raise morale, kid. I think you will turn out to be a great soldier one day."

"You should thank my movies though. They did all the work." And with that, they laughed out loud.

ARV Serenity

Time Skip: 6 minutes

The Serenity was already in the system waiting for the instructions Aktis would give as soon as it arrived. He had arranged with both Aile and Grey that they would be boarding the Asari ship instead of bringing them to the Zethus as it was being repaired by Humanoid engineers to make the trip back safely to its colony. Serenity gladly accepted and opened her docking bays for the Humanoid transport.

Once inside, the group led by Angelus was greeted by the Matriarch and her delegation, each composing five people at max as it was previously arranged. The Humanoids had Angelus, Aile, Grey, Albion and Aktis and the Council had the Matriarch herself, her assistant, a Salarian Council Spectre and two heavily armed Asari soldiers.

The Matriarch was the first to bow. "Greetings. I'm Matriarch Irani of the Asari Republics and representative of the Citadel Council in this case." Then, she elegantly motioned a hand to the others as she introduced each of them. "This is my assistant Raria and this is Spectre Le'en Tolalo, representative of the Salarian Union and also from the Citadel Council. Those two are my personal guards Lyessa and Te'enia." And as she did, each bowed as per formal greeting. After that done, she directed her attention to Aktis. "Captain Aktis, am I to take that you have been appointed as their official liaison?"

The Turian nodded. "Yes, madam. By the way, let me introduce to you," Then he half turned and waved his claw to each of the Humanoid delegation like Irani did to hers. "Angelus, representative of the United Humanoid Systems. His assistant Donnel Udina. And Aile, and Grey, both representatives of the Humanoid defense force, the SolForce."

"It's a pleasure to finally meet new faces in the galaxy." Angelus said with a bow and a perfect straight face. Angelus was, like his name suggested, very much like an angel. He was tall and muscular Reploid with long straight golden hair and good-looking blue eyes. He wore a similar robe used by the Sage Trinity, though instead of light purple it was blue. Irani and Le'en managed to keep their stance, though the same couldn't be said to the others as surprise dominated their faces.

"I had the courtesy of sending the Asari language to their translators. I judge it would ease our conversations." Aktis butted in. The Matriarch looked at him in the eye and nodded.

"Please, follow me. We have prepared a suitable room for this meeting."

With that the ten walked on until they reached a big round and richly decorated room. A single round table dominated the center of the room where ten seats were neatly arranged to receive their occupants. They took the seats and then the discussion began. "I would like to begin by extending a formal apology on behalf of the Turian Hierarchy. The captain in charge of the attack against your vessels ignored Citadel protocols regarding first contacts. We are prepared to offer reasonable reparations on their behalf."

The Humanoid ambassador considered the offer for a moment. "Thank you for the generosity Matriarch, but our losses were nearly thin so I believe these reparations would be better placed in reconstructing what was lost. In addition, my government offered to assist with one of our most basic alloys for ship construction and several other applications."

Irani felt her brow lift at that. "Really? I'm sure the Hierarchy will appreciate your help. However, what kind of material are we talking about if I may inquire?"

"We call it Titanium-Alpha." Angelus said. "This is a refined variant of the normal titanium, which is five times stronger and lighter. Also, it is upgraded with reflective capabilities which are helpful against intense sun rays and light-based weapons. For the moment, I'm not allowed to give more than that."

Irani supressed any surprise with centuries of expertise. However, she couldn't expect those newcomers could forgive the Turians to the point of assisting them even after being victims to their attack. "I understand, though I didn't expect you would be considerate to the Turians after what they did to you."

Angelus smiled and stared her. "All we wish is peace. My people does not hold any grudges against them and we hope they do same. So that's why we are sharing this bit of our technology."

"I see." She paused as she considered her next move. She had to admit: she was starting to like these Humanoids. "Now, let's forget Captain Thrankus' actions and move on?"

Angelus agreed. "Yes," Then he regarded her for a moment. "but before we do, I would like to know more about who you represent. I'm afraid I was vaguely briefed about your Citadel alliance."

"I'm an Asari, from planet Illium. Approximately 2200 years ago, my people allied with the Salarians to found the Citadel Council. It's a representative government of our conglomerate of species which holds a great deal of influence towards the members. Currently, there are three full members and five associate members, composing a total of eight species. Full members are granted the right of representation on the Council itself and the associate are able to petition the Council to address their issues." Irani paused and continued soon after. "Now, it's your turn ambassador."

Angelus nodded. "I'm a Reploid from planet Earth and I represent the United Humanoid Systems." But before he continued, the Salarian who sat to the right next of the Matriarch interrupted.

"I beg your pardon for intruding like this, but I thought your race was called Humanoid." The others shared his train of thoughts with slight nods.

"I was getting to that." Seeing no one would futher contest, he sighed before continuing. From this moment onward he knew this would only make diplomacy even harder after hearing from Prairie about this Council. But, at any rate, they would find out in a way or another so he judged it was better to set the cards on the table. "My race is subdivided into three groups: the Humans, the Reploids and the Mechaniloids. The Humans are the organic part of our civilization which, about 500 years ago, led the creation of the Reploids. Reploids are generic replicas of the humans, though in a mechanical body and with Artificial Intelligence runtimes in evolutive scale which makes us similar to them. There are also the Mechaniloids which are our dumber variant used only for labour purposes and support."

For the first time in those minutes, the Matriarch found herself letting her emotions dominate her expressions as she couldn't help but gape at Angelus' statement. The others on her side did the same as she did, though the Salarian made the effort to not ridicularize himself. "L-Let me get this straight. A-Are you telling us that your civilization is pratically made of A-AIs?" The Matriarch stuttered.

"Indeed. I'm also informed your society has an old grudge against Artificial Intelligence, am I correct?" His eyes narrowed at the Asari as if testing her. He knew the whole ordeal about that issue from Aktis' testament given when he was in his tour throughout the Nuaque. Thankfully, Prairie gave him the heads-up in time.

Unknowingly to anyone in the room, Spectre Le'en's hands quickly went to his sidearm and held it firmly. However, he couldn't compromise Irani's position as the emissary by the Council so he first had to wait her order. But, he kept it there in case these things tried anything. The personal guards also stood at attention and held their rifles while expecting trouble.

Both Aile and Grey noticed their moves and countered with their own as both also grabbed their buster guns and expected the worst.

Back to the Matriarch, she recomposed from her brief discontrol and glared her guest with so much seriousness that she thought she never had. The Council surely won't like to hear of this. "Forgive me for my rudeness ambassador, but what are your true intentions? What do you hope to gain from this meeting?"

The Humanoid ambassador didn't lose his facade as he regarded the Matriarch with same sentiment. "As I have said before, my civilization only wants peace. After facing extinction three times in our history entirely because of wars, we took the path of peace and learned to prosper with it. That's why our fleets are not storming through this relay and jumping our way towards your Citadel right now." He said matter-of-factly. Had it been the Mavericks who found them, their fate surely would be the contrary.

Not long after him, Aktis picked the right time for his entrance in the debate. "They speak truthfully, madam." He faintly gulped when he was received with several stares from Citadel allies. "I had personally interacted with some of their history and behavior and I can say for sure they are not common AIs we were used to see. In my situation, a normal AI would have simply killed me after the interrogation arguing they would not have further use of my knowledge and they didn't do it. Instead, after telling about Captain Lykon, they released me and my crew and they are even doing the courtesy of fixing the Zethus to survive on its trip back to Palaven."

Irani massaged her chin as she thought about what Aktis said. In her years as diplomat, that would have made perfect sense although her mind insisted in persuading her that they were deceiving everyone in the room. However, for the first time in her career, she felt lost at decisions. She would have to consult with the Council. "I must convey with the Council as to how we should proceed. In the meantime, I suggest you stay where you are until further notice. I'll return soon." And with that, she climbed to her feet and exited the room heading to her personal cabin along with her assistant.

Citadel

Council Chambers

The Citadel Council was formed by the three most powerful and influent people in the galaxy. Today, however, even the wise Tevos didn't know the answer for what Matriarch Irani had reported a few minutes ago.

"Honestly, I can't understand those Humanoids. First, they almost destroy an entire patrol, then they offer their resources as reparations for the damage they caused and then they reveal their true nature. If they knew about our laws against AIs, then why did they reveal their identities to us?" Councilor Vibius thought aloud as he replayed the topics of the meeting so far. He had to admit, he wasn't expecting an act so considerate coming from a race of synthetics, not that he didn't appreciate it. Yet, part of him felt odd enough to raise suspicion at their true intentions. What did they expect to obtain by doing this?, he thought.

Tevos who was still in her own world shared the same enigma as her fellow colleague did. By now, she knew those Humanoids were quite different than everything they had believed when it concerned AIs, far to the point where they acted almost the same as organics. "We should see how this goes. I'm uncertain about their motives."

Malron chimed in. "I agree. Even if we wanted, we cannot simply send a fleet to the Traverse and start a war with a race that is centuries more advanced than us. Besides that, we would only be risking another war with Terminus. Our fleets can't fight two ferocious enemies at the same time."

"Yes, that would seem so." Tevos remained in thought for a moment before returning her attention to the hologram of the Matriarch in front of her. "Matriarch Irani, what is your personal opinion on them?"

"Like us they are scared, Councilors." She concluded simply. "From what I gathered this is their first encounter with aliens and with their knowledge of our AI issue, they are a little apprehensive in trusting us though they still want peace as much as we do. However, I do admit I don't see a reason for them to lie even if they are AIs. If they were like the Geth, we would be seeing their fleets barging in our relays and attacking our colonies. I'm not saying we should trust them, but it is my judgment it is much better we have a suspicious ally instead of a potential enemy, given our disadvantages that is."

Vibius hummed in agreement. No matter how you saw it, the situation led a road which ended up with a fork, with neither paths seeming a good one. The path to this alliance was a treacherous one for obvious reasons, though the war one seemed to be even worse. For instance, the Humanoids would most certainly beat up every Citadel fleet with their advanced tech with relative easy, even if the latter won against them in the end. And like Malron said, Terminus could use this opportunity to advance their position to the Attican Traverse and start another war, violating the truce both parties did years ago. Obviously, Vibius had to pick the safest route. "I guess we have reached a consensus then. However, I have a few conditions before this peace treaty can proceed."

Tevos and Malron eyed his colleague curiously, clearly not expecting him to digest the news as easy as they thought. "Which are?" Tevos asked.

ARV Serenity

Not much happened in the room since Matriarch Irani left. Aside from the constant eye contacts from both parties as each dared the other to make a move, the place seemed as tranquil as a dawning forest.

When she returned, she was briefly surprised the room was quite intact with no scratches whatsoever. She had to admit she half expected her men gunned down by the Humanoids, instead of them being where they were like she had said.

Angelus, noticing her presence once again, first spoke up. " Well? Are we still having peace agreement, Matriarch?"

Irani smiled, though she didn't know why she did it. "We do, ambassador. The Council has given me green light to proceed. Now, if there is nothing else we should discuss about our previous topic, I believe we should now go over the conditions of our agreement."

Angelus nodded. "We do not require much. Do you have a map of the galaxy somewhere?" A holographic display of the Milk Way abruptly appeared above the table. "Okay, we have claimed most of space surrounding our homeworld, Earth. Roughly this area." He drew a sphere surrounding the humanoid sphere of influence. "Our terms are simple. Your people will not cross our frontiers without permission, nor will initiate any kind of hostilities towards my people or 'enforce Citadel law' against us. If the Citadel wants to activate any Mass Relay that leads to our territory, you will have to consult us first. And finally, any of your people inside Humanoid space will have to abide by our laws. If you can agree to these terms, we will gladly return the favor."

Their conditions were not much beyond from what she had expected. Those Humanoids may be friendlies, but they are not idiots. "I can agree if you do the same with my own conditions. First, only authorized Humanoids will be able to have access to the Citadel space as they will be constantly watched by our security force. If any of them does anything that goes against our laws, they will be severely punished and permanently deported back to your territory. Second, any of your military assets outside, or near to, your agreed territory must be disclosed to us and what Mass Effect have been activated in same." Irani paused for breath and continued soon later."Also, I request you do not activate any Mass Relays without knowing what is on the other side. Reckless activation has led the Citadel Council to the brick of destruction in the past."

"I see no reason to refuse. However, we will not divulge any information that are on our side of the border." Irani locked her eyes with Angelus as both silently fought a battle for submission. Sighing in defeat, she finally gave her approval. "Aile, please give the information to the Matriarch." She tapped her forearm, where her Bracer resided, and when was done she nodded at him.

Irani bowed in thanks. "Thank you for your cooperation. Although the evident mistrust between us, I truly hope our species can coexist and live in peace together."

"My thoughts the same, Matriarch." Angelus regarded her with a smile. "The first procedure towards is opening trade routes."

"Indeed. The Council is also very interested in openin trade. Have you thought about possible places where you can set trading posts?" Irani asked.

"The colonies near the border to Citadel space should provide the excellent routes as they would facilitate the market between from both sides." Angelus answered. "Also, I believe this would work well as a slow and peaceful integration between our people to diminish our differences."

The Asari contemplated the suggestion for a while. "That would be promising, but I must first confer with the Council before we can agree to anything. " Angelus nodded expecting that requirement.

"I look forward to hear your Council's response. However, you must know military grade technology is not going to be included in the package." This raised an inquisitive look on Irani. "As you have, undoubtedly, heard from the reports of the incident here, our weapons are quite powerful and some are even capable of destroying a space station in one shot. So, it's better if they say inside our territories."

"That is acceptable, I guess. From how things are going here, I believe we will have a trade agreement very soon." Irani then moved to the final topic of the negotiation. "There is one final item I feel the need to discuss: the Prothean artifacts."

Angelus frowned at that. "You know the Protheans?"

Now, it was her turn to frown. Who hadn't heard of the Protheans in this galaxy?, she thought as she played a scene in her mind asking that sentence. "Yes, they were unparalleled masters of the element zero technology, however, they have been extinct for over than 50,000 years ago. My people place great value on solving the mysteries of the Protheans. It was they who built the Mass Relays and the Citadel." She described passionately. "So, if you are able to share them with us, the Asari people will thank you for generosity."

The Humanoid ambassador considered the request. "We can comply with one condition and an exception." This raised the Matriarch's interest. "We will share any artifacts we find with you after we made our analysis first, with the exception of the one we found in our home system. That one will remain under our control, but your people can examine it under our supervision and share any information you find with us. How does that sound?"

"That's great!" Better than she hoped for actually. "Thank you again. Now, if there is nothing else to discuss..."

"Actually, there is." Angelus quickly interjected raising Irani's attention. "There is a matter concerning creatures we call as Cyber-Elves."

"What are they?" She asked.

"Cyber- Elves are Humanoids who 'passed away', in a manner of speaking, from their bodies and went to Cyberspace as a digitalized AI 'soul'. Cyber-Elves are those souls which descend from Cyberspace to interact with our society." Angelus could sense the obvious notion of shock at the Matriarch's face. He half-expected her to laugh at him with that statement, but she didn't. "However, after this encounter, I'm almost sure they will curious to know about your Citadel species too. So it is my duty as a Humanoid to warn that any damage you cause to them will be viewed as an insult to our race. Those beings are very much respected in our civilization and I suggest you do the same."However, Angelus knew Cyber-Elves were mistrustful towards any other being aside their own, including the Humanoids no thanks to Serpent from Slither Inc. So, he guessed they wouldn't have the guts to explore the alien network this recklessly. But, better sure than sorry.

Irani took the moment to digest this new information. This was beyond her decisions. "I will confer with Council and listen to their decision. Well, if there is nothing else again..." Angelus shook his head and the Matriarch delegation climbed to their feet. "Then we will escort you back to your shuttle."

"Thank you." The Humanoid soon did the same and followed her out. "I look forward to a lasting friendship between our people.

Codex Entry 04 – The Great Wars

The Maverick Wars:

They began in the year of 2135, when Zero was still a Maverick and released the Maverick Virus into the Reploid population, causing some to go crazy and turn against everyone, including their human masters. Later, the virus infected Sigma, the leader of the Maverick Hunters at the time, where it, in the process of adapting to his advanced circuit designs, transformed into the Sigma Virus, which contained Sigmas's own spirit and aims. Due to this, the Maverick Wars continued for a long time, as the Sigma Virus proved incredibly resilient to deletion and waged war as long as it existed. Eventually, it was destroyed with the Mother Elf along with the help of X and Zero.

The Elf Wars:

It was an extremely bloody series of battles that marked the closure of the Maverick Wars, one century prior the Neo Arcadian Wars. It is considered the worst war in history, and it was named for the exploitation of many Cyber-elves in the conflict. Although the Elf Wars lasted only four years, the casualties were extremely deep: approximately 90% of all Reploids and 60% of all humans were wiped out. Its effects were still felt in the Neo Arcadian Wars.

The Neo Arcadian Wars:

A century after the Elf Wars, Neo Arcadia became the center of the world as the only functional city which housed the entire remaining world population. As X's body was used to seal the Dark Elf, Copy X rose to the leadership of the city with drastic changes. With the growing need of energy, he counteracted the problem by cutting back the Reploids and then began accusing them of being Mavericks in order to 'protect humanity's happiness'. At that time, Zero was reawaken by Ciel and supported the Resistance outside of Neo Arcadia by destroying Copy X and the mastermind behind everything, Doctor Weil. At the end of the conflict, Zero sacrificed himself to destroy the Ragnarok, a satellite cannon which was capable of mass destruction, which marked the end of the conflict.

Notes:

(1) I'm disregarding MM ZX Advent's secret ending here, so Thomas will continue with his usual persona and, as stated before, the other Megmen from the game won't be making any appearances since I'm assuming they didn't survive Ouroboros's explosion. The Biometals did survive however, so they will make gradual appearances (some will have important roles and others will be just cameos.)

(2) As strange as it may sound, Reploids do have DNA though often called DNA Soul. This DNA Soul is the Reploid operational program which makes them alive and it's also the source of their individuality, which is often compared to human soul.

As always, thank you for taking your free time to read this story. I appreciate all the support you guys have been showing so far! Also, I'd like to thank my new beta-reader Stealer-L1F3 for the assistance in correcting general mistakes concerning grammar and such. Another thing too, he is building a cross-over fanfic of Mass Effect and Halo so if anyone is interested, please check his stories...