Chapter Text

World Without End Chapter 1: Evidence to Remember Eden Prime

"This is an outrage! The Council would step in if the geth attacked a turian colony!"

I crossed my arms and looked at Ambassador Donnel Udina. He was right. If Eden Prime had been a turian, salarian, or an asari colony, the Council would have helped.

"The turians don't found colonies on the borders of the Terminus systems, Ambassador." Salarian Councilor Valern replied.

"Humanity was well aware of the risks when you went into the Traverse." Asari Counselor Tevos said.

I shook my head. Typical politician bullshit.

"What about Saren?" Udina asked with a hint of venom. "You can't just ignore a rouge Spectre. I demand action!"

Spectre.

I still couldn't believe that the Council had suggested me as a candidate.

"Not all turians resent humanity, Shepard. Some of us see the potential of your species. We see what you have to offer to the rest of the galaxy... and to the Spectres." Nihlus had told me.

Surely there was more to it than that. Why would the Council pick an orphan girl from Mindoir?

I turned to look at Chief Gunnery Ashley Williams, who was admiring the view of the Citadel's Presidium. She and I had one thing in common. She was the only survivor of her unit to escape Eden Prime, just like I was the only survivor in mine during the thresher maw attack on Akuze.

I could still recall meeting the Chief in perfect detail. Strands of hair wisped in her face as she took off her helmet. Her breathing was irregular and I could tell she was just a tad bit scared.

"Gunnery Chief Ashley Madeline Williams of the 212." She saluted. "Are you in charge here, Ma'am?"

I nodded. "I am. Are you wounded, Williams?"

"No, a few scrapes and burns, but nothing serious." She paused. "The others weren't so lucky."

"What the hell happened, Chief?" Lieutenant Kaidan Alenko asked from beside me.

The black haired Chief let out a puff of air. "Man, we were patrolling the perimeter when the attack hit." She pointed to a small section on a hill. "We tried to get off a distress call, but they cut off our communications. I've been fighting for my life ever since."

I knew exactly how Williams felt. Memories of the horrible attack on Akuze had made me feel sick to my stomach. I forced the memory out of my mind and smiled to the battered chief.

"It's okay, you're safe now. Where is the rest of your squad?"

"We tried to double back to the perimeter, but we walked into an ambush."

I placed my hand on her shoulder. "It's not your fault."

Ashley let out a sigh and then nodded. "Yes, ma'am."

"I'm guessing we're close to the same age, Chief. Please don't call me that." I gave her a wink. "It makes me feel old."

She smiled. "Aye, Commander."

Ashley reminded me of my sister in a way. Strong willed, opinionated, and wasn't afraid to show that girls could be just as tough as boys. Caitlyn had always been the tomboy of us two. And even though she was three years younger than me, she always seemed to play the part of 'Big Sister'.

I watched as Ashley punched Kaidan in the arm for something, making him rub his arm while he laughed. I just knew we were all going to be very good friends.

"Captain Anderson," Udina turned to my Commanding officer as the council's holographic images dissipated from the holo terminal. "I see you brought half your crew with you."

"Just the ground team from Eden Prime, Ambassador. In case you had any questions regarding-"

"I have the mission reports, I assume they're accurate?" Udina said with a hint of annoyance.

I had to admit, I didn't really like Donnel Udina. In my opinion, he was a diplomatic ass, but then again, what politician wasn't?

"They are," Anderson reassured. "It sounds like you convinced the Council to give us an audience."

"They were not happy about it. Saren's their top agent, Captain. They don't like him being accused of treason."

Before Anderson could say something, I jumped in. "Saren's a threat to every human colony out there, Ambassador. He needs to be stopped. The Council has to listen to us!"

Udina frowned at me. "Settle down, Commander. You've already done more than enough to jeopardize your candidacy for the Spectres! The mission on Eden Prime was a chance to prove you could get the job done. Instead, Nihlus ended up dead and the Prothean beacon destroyed!"

"That's Saren's fault, not hers!" Anderson stated rather possessively.

The ambassador placed his hands behind his back, his eyes glaring at me. "Then we better hope that the C-Sec investigation turns up evidence to support our accusations. Otherwise, the Council might use this as an excuse to keep you out of the Spectres." He then turned to Anderson. "Come with me, Captain." Udina headed towards the door. "I want to go over a few things before the hearing. Shepard, you and the others can meet us at the Council tower, top level. I'll make sure you have clearance to get in."

I wanted to tell Udina where he could shove his clearance, but I held my tongue. I let out a sigh as Anderson patted me on the arm.

"We'll talk later." He whispered and then followed Udina out of the office of the human embassies.

"And that is why I hate politicians." Ashley sighed as she shook her head.

Yeah, Ash and I are going to get along just fine.

As Kaidan, Ashley, and I made our way out of the Udina’s office, I heard a low mumbling sound coming from the office next door. I looked at the lit name plate next to the door.

Elcor and Volus Embassies.
Ambassador Calyn
Ambassador Din Korlak

I turned to Kaidan and Ashley who gave me a shrug; then we entered the room rather cautiously, wondering what was going on. I noticed two Elcor right away, and they seemed to be arguing, if you could call it that.

"I understand what you are saying, but these allegations are very serious. I can't just..."

"This is serious. My reputation is at stake. I spoke with the Consort in confidence and her alone. And she betrayed that confidence."

"All right. I will look into it for you. In the meantime, do not do anything rash."

There was a moment of silence before I carefully made my way up to the Elcor. The Elcor, they reminded me of Earth's elephants in a way. Large, bulky, and could probably break your toe if they stepped on it.

"Hello there, human. Sincere apology, but I am here on business and cannot be distracted right now."

Even though I know they only have one tone to their voice, he seemed to be a little blue.

"What's wrong? You seemed distressed. Is there something I can do to help?"

"Alarmed response, you overheard that did you? This is all going so wrong, and it is the asari Consort's fault. She's the one who started all this."

"Who's this asari Consort?" I asked.

"Curious, you have not heard? You must be new to the Citadel. Everyone knows Sha'ira, the Consort. I cannot speak more about this problem; it is too sensitive. Suffice it to say, she has compromised my authority as a diplomat."

I was curious as to who this Consort was. "Where can I find this asari Consort?"

"She is across the bridge from here. Her offices are easy enough to spot. Good day, human."

As I turned, the Volus Ambassador folded his arms, while the elcor Ambassador turned to me.

"Pleased greeting. Human, it is always good to see your kind. I am Ambassador Calyn.

"Earth-clan, you are in the wrong place, I think. Your Ambassador is next door in the large office."

"Chastising remark. Don't be so rude, Din. At least introduce yourself." Came the dull tone of the Elcor Ambassador.

I hinted an annoyed sigh from the volus before he unfolded his arms. "I am Din Korlak, Volus Ambassador. Is there something I can do for you, Earth-clan?"

"Why are you so cranky, Ambassador? You seem to have a bit of a chip on your shoulder."

He pointed his finger at me, which caused me to lean back. "You humans are new to the Citadel, and yet the Council has granted you great favor."

"Chastising remark, Din. Your species has always been granted many concessions. Volus territory has expanded ten-fold since coming to the Citadel."

Din grumbled. "Details. We still have no real say in decisions that affect Citadel space. I try to look out for the best interests of the volus people. No easy task considering how often we are overlooked by the Council."

"Chastising rebuke, Din. The Council favors your species greatly."

"You are naive, Calyn. The Earth-clan will be invited to the Council long before our species will." I was curious as to why the elcor and the volus weren't part of the Council, so I asked. Din huffed. "All species must prove themselves before they join the Council. All but the Earth-clans, it would seem."

I heard the sigh of the elcor ambassador. "Dismissive. Ignore the Volus Ambassador, human. He is incorrect in his assessment."

I turned and looked at Calyn. "I have to ask, Ambassador, why do you explain what you're about to say?"

"Our people communicate less through words and more through scent and slight movements. Plainly, we discovered our vocal expression was not enough to convey the feelings of our conversations to other species."

"Why do you bother, Calyn? These Earth-clan don't really care about our ways."

I looked at the Volus Ambassador with a lifted eyebrow, but turned as Calyn shook his big head. "Remorseful response, Din. You don't truly believe that. And if you do, I am very sorry for you."

I slightly bowed my head with respect. "It was nice to meet you both. Good bye, Ambassadors."

"Sincere farewell. Good day to you, human. Enjoy your time on the Citadel."

"Yes, yes. Good day, Earth-clan."

As I walked out of the office, I couldn't help but smile. Ambassador Calyn was very nice, and hopefully with a few 'annoying visits', I could help Din see that us humans aren't so bad. As we made our way out of the embassies, I stopped to admire the view that was set before me. The Presidium was beautiful, nothing like I had ever seen before. The lakes were shimmering like crystals, and the gentle breeze made the luscious green trees rustle. As I took a step towards the shuttle transport, a voice called me and I turned my head.

"Commander, welcome to the Citadel." An asari greeted from behind a large desk.

I lifted my brow. "You know who I am?"

"Yes. I receive reports on all newly arrived dignitaries and notable people. Ambassador Udina requested that you get top level security, so here is your badge code. Please don't lose it." She activated her omni-tool, forcing mine to light up.

"Thank you so much. What's your name? What do you do here?" I asked.

"My name is Saphyria. I am the administrative assistant to the embassies."

"It's nice to meet you, Saphyria." I bowed my head out of respect.

"You as well, Commander. If you have any other questions, you can access Avina."

Ashley looked at her questionably. "Avina?"

"Avina is the virtual guide for the Citadel. Feel free to access the terminal yourself." She pointed to the holographic asari.

"I should get going, thank you for your help." I replied with a soft smile.

"Have a pleasant day."

As we headed to the shuttle transport, I heard a voice off in the distance. "I am Avina, allow me to be your guide."

"Hey Commander, look... It's an almost naked asari VI." Kaidan said in a thrilling voice. “Do you think we can-“

Ashley grabbed Kaidan by the ear. "Come on, LT. We don't have time to drool over it. We have to get to the tower."

"Ow, ow, ow..."

I couldn't help but smile. I had a very strong feeling those two were going to become great friends.

I walked up to the transport terminal and punched in our destination. The skycar arrived five minutes later and once the two salarians climbed out, we took their place.

“Next destination: The Citadel Tower. ETA – 10 minutes."

I let out a sigh as the skycar lifted off. The events of Eden Prime were still fresh in my mind. The death of Lieutenant Jenkins and Nihlus. The destruction of the beacon. The bodies of all those innocent people of Eden Prime.

I could feel the emotion building up inside me. How could a Spectre turn rogue? What was so damn important that Saren would break his oath? It honestly didn’t matter. The only thing that did, was to stop him before anyone else got hurt.

"You okay, Commander?" Ashley asked.

"I'm fine." I lied.

There was a moment of silence.

"Commander?”

"Yeah, Chief?"

"We're going to kick Saren's ass from here to the Veil." She said, trying to brighten my spirits.

I couldn’t help but turn to her and smile. "Yes, yes we are."

The rest of the 10 minute ride was spent in silence as we all pondered in our own thoughts.

“Now arriving at the Presidium Tower. Please collect all of your belongings before exiting the car. Enjoy your day.”

After departing the skycar, we headed to where Anderson and Udina were probably waiting for us. About half way there, we came across two turians who were arguing.

"Saren's hiding something! Give me more time. Stall them!"

That got my attention. I slowly walked up to them, trying my best to eavesdrop on their conversation.

"Stall the Council? Don't be ridiculous! Your investigation is over, Garrus."

“This is bullshit, sir. You know-“

“I said, your investigation is over. Leave it be!” The dark faced turian warned before he turned and walked away.

“Excuse me?” I walked up to the other turian who I could tell was quite frustrated. “I couldn’t help but overhear that you’re investigating Saren. I would-“

“Commander Shepard?” The turian asked. I nodded. “A pleasure to finally meet you.” He offered his hand and I took it. “Garrus Vakarian. I was the officer in charge of the C-Sec investigation into Saren."

The expression on Garrus’ face reminded me of Nihlus.

Nihlus.

He had told me right before the Eden Prime incident that he had high hopes for me. I couldn’t help but feel like I had let him down, which made me even more determined to kick Saren in the ass. If the bastard did kill Nihlus, then it was my job to get revenge.

"Who were you talking to?" I asked curiously.

"That was Executor Pallin, head of Citadel Security. My boss. He'll be presenting my findings to the council." The turian replied, sounding annoyed.

"Sounds like you really want to bring Saren down."

Garrus shook his head, "I don't trust him, something about him rubs me the wrong way. But he's a Spectre, everything he touches is classified. I can't find any hard evidence."

"Commander, Captain Anderson is waving at us. I think the Council's ready." Kaidan interrupted.

I nodded and then looked at Garrus who nodded as well. "Thank you, Garrus. Try not to run off, I might need your help or to ask you a few more questions if the shit hits the fan with the Council."

Garrus looked at me oddly then nodded. "Of course. Good luck, Shepard. Maybe they'll listen to you."

As I walked up the stairs to Anderson who was waiting for us at the top, I noticed the beauty that was laid out before me. Orange, yellow, and red trees gently swayed back and forth. It reminded me of fall time on Mindoir.

"The hearing's already started. Come on." Anderson said as he gently grabbed my arm, squeezing it.

We all walked up to a large platform where the three Citadel councilors were standing on the other side. The turian was on the left, the asari in the middle, and the salarian on the right.

I raised my brow as I looked at the turian councilor more closely. He had the exact face markings as Nihlus. Coincidence?

"The geth attack is a matter of some concern. But there is nothing to indicate Saren was involved in anyway." The asari councilor had already started the hearing.

"The investigation by Citadel Security turned up no evidence to support your charge of treason." The turian councilor added.

"An eyewitness saw him kill Nihlus in cold blood!" Udina shouted.

I flashed back to Nihlus dead body, remembering the incident very well.

"Commander, look... It's Nihlus" Kaidan said with sadness in his voice.

I bent down, running my hand over his dark face. Then I quickly looked up as I heard a noise coming from the stock bins. I quickly pulled out my pistol while Ashley yelled for guns. A man who looked like he needed a bath, stepped out from behind some of the more small crates. His expression reeked of fear. I was upset that I almost shot him.

"Sneaking up on us like that nearly got you killed!" I scolded him.

"I-I'm sorry. I was hiding... From... from those creatures." He replied with his hands in surrender position.

"I need to know what happened here." I pointed at Nihlus.

The man rubbed his forehead with his sleeve, a little uneasy. "The other one got here first. He was waiting when your friend showed up. He called him Saren. I think they knew each other."

My eyes widened. "What the hell are you talking about?"

"We've read the Eden Prime reports." The salarian councilor retorted. "The testimony of one traumatized dockworker is hardly compelling proof."

Saren added to the debate, "I resent these accusations. Nihlus was a fellow Spectre. And a friend."

I glared up at him, knowing full well he was no friend to Nihlus.

"That just let you catch him off guard!" Anderson yelled.

"Captain Anderson." Saren responded snidely. "You always seem to be involved when humanity makes false charges against me."

I turned and looked at Anderson. What the hell was Saren talking about? What kind of past did Anderson have against this turian bastard?

"...And this must be your protégé, Commander Shepard. The one who let the beacon get destroyed."

My mind flashed to the beacon incident.

"Normandy, the beacon is secure. Request immediate evac." I was happy this was going to be over soon.

"Acknowledged, Commander. We will send a squad of five to your position, stand by."

"Roger, Normandy. Standing by." I turn around and see Ashley. She really has been a big help. Hopefully Captain Anderson will allow her to be a member of Normandy's team. Then my eyes widen as I see Kaidan being pulled towards the beacon. I quickly dash pass Ash and run as fast as I can towards the struggling Lieutenant. I jump and throw him out of the way of the beacon's hold. Then all of a sudden images flash in my mind, the screams of creatures being killed by mechanical beings, buildings burning, children crying, then darkness surrounds all around me.

I growled as I took a step forward. "You're the one who destroyed the beacon. Then you tried to cover it up." I said trying to mask my anger as best as I could.

Saren shook his head. "Shift the blame to cover your own failures, just like Captain Anderson. He's taught you well. But what can you expect from a human?"

My hands balled into fists as I took a step forward. "Saren despises humanity. That's why he attacked Eden Prime!"

"Your species needs to learn its place, Shepard. You're not ready to join the Council. You're not even ready to join the Spectres!" Saren reviled.

Udina interrupted angrily, and for once I was glad he was there. "He has no right to say that! That is not his decision!"

"Shepard's admission into the Spectre's is not the purpose of this meeting." The asari councilor stated.

Saren responded, "This meeting has no purpose. The humans are wasting your time, Councilor. And mine."

I was more annoyed than ever. "Saren's hiding behind his position as Spectre. You need to open your eyes!"

"What we need," the salarian councilor responded, "is evidence. So far, we've seen nothing."

"There is still one outstanding issue. Commander Shepard's vision. It may have been triggered by the beacon." Anderson added.

"Are we allowing dreams into evidence now? How can I defend my innocence against this kind of testimony?" Saren's holographic figure was clearly displaying his physical emotions well.

"I agree," said the turian councilor, "Our judgment must be based on facts and evidence, not wild imaginings and reckless speculation."

"Do you have anything else to add, Commander Shepard?" Asked the salarian councilor.

I put my head down. I suddenly felt exhausted and defeated. I knew that for now, I had to throw in the white towel. So I shook my head, "You've made your decision. I won't waste my breath."

The councilors looked at each other and then back to the group. The asari councilor then spoke. "The Council has found no evidence of any connection between Saren and the geth. Ambassador, your petition to have him disbarred from the Spectres is denied."

Saren bowed in arrogance. "I'm glad to see justice was served."

"This meeting is adjourned." The asari councilor added. Saren's holo presence disappeared and the Council walked away.

"It was a mistake bringing you into that hearing, Captain.” Udina snapped as we all made our way off the platform. “You and Saren have too much history. It made the Council question our motives."

"I know Saren. He's working with the geth for one reason: to exterminate the entire human race. Every colony we have is at risk. Every world we control is in danger. Even Earth isn't safe."

I never heard Anderson talk with such hatred before, and it made me a little worried. "How do you know Saren, sir?" I asked, a little apprehensive.

"I worked with him on a mission a long time ago. Things went bad, real bad. We shouldn't talk about this here. But, I know what he's like. And, he has to be stopped."

I nodded, making a mental note to ask about Saren later. "So what now?"

Udina placed his fingers on his lips, thinking for a moment. "As a Spectre, he's virtually untouchable. We need to find some way to expose him."

Kaidan chirped in. "What about Garrus, that C-Sec investigator? We saw him arguing with the executor."

Garrus. I couldn't help but smile.

Ashley snapped her fingers. "That's right! He was asking for more time to finish his report. Seems like he was close to finding something on Saren."

I turned to Anderson. "Do you know where we can find him?" I asked, trying to hide the somewhat excitement in my voice.

Udina answered. "I have a contact in C-Sec who can help us track Garrus down. His name is Harkin."

Anderson gave a disgusted look. "Forget it! They suspended Harkin last month. Drinking on the job. I wouldn't waste my time with that loser."

Udina crossed his arms and looked at Anderson. "You don't have to. I don't want the Council using your past history with Saren as an excuse to ignore anything we turn up. Shepard will handle this!"

My eyes widened and I quickly responded, defending my mentor. "You can't just cut him out of this investigation!"

Anderson quickly put his hand on my shoulder. "Katie, the ambassador's right." Using my first name caused me turn to him. "I need to step aside."

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. This day just keeps getting better and better.

"I need to take care of some business. Captain, meet me in my office later."

As Udina walked passed us, I overheard Ash whispering "Asshole." I couldn't help but agree with her.

"Harkin's probably getting drunk at Chora's Den. It's a dingy little club in the lower section of the wards." Anderson said.

I paused for a moment and then looked up at him. "This isn't fair. You should be a part of this, especially since you know Saren."

"That’s exactly why I can’t be close to this investigation. Saren and I… have a past. I don’t need it to come and bite us on the ass.” He smiled at me. “I am proud of you, and I know you can get the job done."

"Will you at least tell me about what happened between you and Saren?"

Anderson lowered his head and then shook it. "I'll tell you about it later, go find Garrus. If you need me, I will be in Udina's office."

I wanted to say more, but stayed quiet as my adopted father placed a hand on my shoulder, smiled, and then walked to the shuttle transport.

"I won't let you down, dad." I whispered.