Priority: Equestria (Mass Effect Crossover)

Chapters

The Search
Contact
One Small Step
Briefing Time

The Search

[A/N: A big thank you to pre-reader Tactical!Rainboom over on Ponychan for defusing this grammatical minefield.]

Bleep. Bleep. Bleep. Bleep; bleep; bleep, bleep, bleep, BLEEP! BLEEP!

“Commander, the radar is detecting electronic signatures in this system.” A synthetic, but clearly female voice announced from a seated figure in front of a large orange screen, which was floating in midair.

The bridge thrummed with the low hum of electronics and the distant whir of the engines. The artificially scrubbed air carried a very faint but very distinct sourness from the recycling process. Fluorescent white bulbs in the ceiling and floor cast the entire bridge in their clinical, white glare. Commander Shepard stood in the middle of the room directly behind the pilot chair. In the chair sat his helmsman, Jeff “Joker” Moreau, the most skilled pilot in the entire Systems Alliance.

“Thank god. Maybe scanning every planet in the entire cluster won’t be a total waste of time!” Joker span his chair around to face Shepard.

“I make the rules, Joker. If we don’t find where The Illusive Man is holed up, then we’ll never find the Catalyst,” Shepard returned confidently.

Joker sighed and span back around to the pilot console. His navy blue flight suit still somehow crisp and clean despite the days spent flying from planet to planet, as they searched for any trace of Cerberus. He cast another look back at Commander Shepard; the first human Spectre and hero of the Citadel.

Less than three years ago, Shepard had signed onto the crew, fresh from the esteemed N7 training course. Despite his military grunt background, he took extremely well to the Alliance officer suit he was wearing now. The dark blue and black suit, tastefully lined with gold thread, fit him like a glove. The elaborate medals on his chest, and the golden chevrons on his shoulder pads, announced to everyone that he was a big shot; and for good reason, right now he was the only hope left for the galaxy. Joker looked up to see the Commander’s bright blue eyes boring into his.

“I know I’m impressive, Joker, but can we tone down the googly eyes?” The Commander smirked as Joker snapped out of it.

“You wish, Shepard,” Joker said with a laugh, “but, if you must know, I was examining EDI,” Joker replied snarkily, then promptly span back around to his pilot console.

Shepard smiled to himself and leant back over EDI’s console. EDI’s robotic platform was running all manner of scans on the small blue rock in front of them. The platform’s humanoid shape was optimised for blending in with humans. Originally created by the corrupt organisation that Shepard was currently hunting down for infiltration purposes; it now saw use as an extension of the unshackled AI that inhabited the ship. EDI had adapted to it well, and had put it through its paces in the Quarian-Geth war for Rannoch. For all intents and purposes, she was metal woman. Her body was constructed of a silver coloured metal alloy with some areas constructed of a different, black alloy. An orange visor constantly coated her eyes.

“What do we know, EDI?” Shepard asked with a nod towards the screen.

“According to my databanks this entire system is off limits by order of the Citadel Council. This sector holds no mineral wealth and no habitable planets. However, no records exist for the planet that’s broadcasting the signal. We only managed to pick it up with the geth signal booster we obtained from Rannoch.” EDI continued to type into a keyboard made of light as she spoke.

The commander’s brow furrowed for a moment. “Can this signal pick us up?”

“Signal is unknown. I would recommend utilising the Normandy’s stealth systems in case of hostile security measures.”

The commander nodded. “Do it.”

Lights blinked all around the cockpit as the engines switched to stealth mode, rerouting the ships' heat emissions into the specially designed hull.

“Joker, can you take us closer to the planet?”

“Aye-aye commander,” Joker replied from his chair. In front of him was a reinforced polymer based window that provided a view into the dark abyss of space. The ship hurtled along at faster than light speeds. Up ahead, the distant blue planet slowly grew closer.

“EDI, are you sure there are no habitable planets in this system?” Shepard asked after a brief pause.

“According to the records, there are no habitable planets in this system,” EDI began.

“I don’t want to know what the records say; I want to know what you think,” Shepard interjected.

“Based on the data from our long-range scanners, it is highly probable that the planet would suit human colonisation.”

“Then why would the Council say otherwise?”

“Unknown. This planet does not exist on Council records. Perhaps the planet is a recent extra-solar capture?”

“I don’t know EDI. Still, it is suspicious.” The commander took a few steps back absentmindedly. With a measured exhalation he stepped forwards again and asked, “Is there any way to scan the planet without revealing our presence?”

“All scanners would be instantly detected. I did manage to extrapolate a rough location for the source of the signal. It would be possible to launch a probe to that location. The probe should be able to ascertain the signal’s source, and send us information via near undetectable tight-beam communications.”

“Are we in range?”

“We will be in range to dispense a probe in roughly fifteen minutes. I would recommend concealing the ship behind the planet’s moon as an extra precaution.”

“You hear that, Joker?”

“Yes, sir,” Joker grumbled in response.

“Keep me posted, EDI,” Shepard said with a nod as he turned to leave.

The commander walked out of the bridge and down the ramp to the galaxy map. Crewmen in Alliance uniforms tapped away at various consoles, managing all the processes required to keep the ship flying. Consoles lined the walls, spreading outwards in a circle until they encountered two semicircular doors. Shepard cast an upward glance at the holographic representation of the ship currently suspended in the middle of the room.

One of the crewmen, who was standing at the consoles that lined the projector, span around and snapped off a salute to the commander. “We’re reading green across the board, sir!”

The commander nodded his thanks. “Carry on, Ensign Copeland.” As he approached his private terminal on the rear of the projector, the ship was replaced with a representation of the galaxy. The swirling blue image was dotted with billions of stars, each their own solar system; a veritable cornucopia of planets. It was always a sobering thought: how insignificant the Normandy and her crew were, yet right now the entire galaxy rested on their shoulders.

“Is everything okay, Commander?” a woman from a nearby terminal said smoothly.

Shepard shook himself and looked up with a thin smile. “Everything’s okay, Samantha.”

“Is it really, Shepard? I know that tone. That’s the: I have problems but if I hide them and ignore them then they won’t be a problem tone,” Specialist Traynor said wryly.

Shepard had to smile at that. “Fine, you win, Sam.” His smile then instantly vanished again to be replaced with an empty stare. He leaned in and spoke with a hushed tone, “I know it wasn’t my fault that we were ambushed on Thessia, but that doesn’t change the fact that we were. Kai Leng bested us, and took our only hope against the Reapers. It just tears me up that he was able to defeat us so easily. This is the second time he has managed to get away unscathed.”

“Shepard. I know you’re not used to losing; fact is, you probably have one of the biggest win streaks in the galaxy, but sometimes people lose. Take you at chess for example, you haven’t managed to beat me yet,” The two of them couldn’t help but laugh at that. “It’s undisputable fact that no one can win forever,” she said sincerely, before breaking into another smile and adding, “Besides, now it’s one-to-one, which means you’re leading to an inevitable showdown. That’s when you can stick it to him and save the galaxy.”

“Thanks, Sam. You always know the right thing to say,” Shepard said with a smile of his own.

“I try. Say, You up for another game of virtual chess later?”

“Sure, I’ve been reading up on the extranet and I think I’ve got you figured out,” Shepard replied with a cocky smirk.

“We’ll see, Commander,” Samantha replied with a sly smile.

Shepard shook his head with another laugh as he walked up to the elevator behind them and pushed the hovering green touchpad. The door lifted open and Shepard entered, walking over to the bright orange console at the back. A simple display listed the five floors with the current floor in green.

Hmm… I could kill a few minutes in my quarters… or I could check on how Tali is settling into Engineering. Decisions, decisions. I need my team at one hundred percent, so engineering it is. With a nod to himself he pushed the button for floor four and the elevator’s doors slowly shut, then the elevator began its slow descent.

Celestia sat at the head of the alabaster table on a carved marble throne. Around the table were assembled the usual dignitaries from inside the country and out; the same mixture of stubborn old foals and ambitious new cutthroats. The cutthroats seemed to be steadily becoming a majority though. The same issues were being raised, and the same arguments were being carried out. Every month they had this meeting, and every month no progress actually happened. Today, however, Luna had awoken early to attend the meeting herself. Who knew what a fresh perspective could spin on things?

“I’m so bored, sis,” Luna whispered from beside Celestia. Celestia remained staring at the infighting ponies as they screamed at each other, backing up pointless accusations with even more inconsequential facts.

“We could boost the water supply to oat fields by 0.05%!” some ambitious administrator shouted to a chorus of nods from a few of his peers.

“The only thing worse than the aging aristocrats is these bumbling bureaucrats,” Celestia mumbled out of the corner of her mouth.

“I’m just saying that Fellhew Forest could see productivity increase by as much as 2% with a contract from Colt Throttle Smithies,” cried some fat old pony that Celestia somehow managed to remember was the mayor of Mareidian.

“Whilst naming a Mareidian company as the sole suppliers of tools on a government sponsored forest,” a young mare hissed in response.

“Is this all they do?” Luna whispered back, somehow making her voice audible over the din of raised voices.

“Wait! Did somepony say oat fields? We’ve had a bumper crop of oats! It’s vital we now focus on oranges!” Baron d’Orange suddenly piped up, his eyes afire.

“Will you shut up about your Celestia damn oranges?” one of the hotshots bellowed in response. The entire table went silent and turned to stare at him. As soon as he realised what he had said he leapt back and slowly turned his head to face the princess.

Celestia rose from her chair, her face impassive. She began to stride over to the offending pony; the only sound in the hall now was the echoing hoofsteps as Celestia approached the chair. The anonymous administrator attempted to sink into his chair and disappear. Celestia stopped directly in front of him and leaned in close. “You would use my name in vain?” she said flatly.

“I’m sorry, Princess. It won’t happen again,” he replied. Sweat poured down his face as his eyes underwent a merry dance from left to right.

“See that it doesn’t,” Celestia said coldly.

With a flash of her horn, Celestia teleported back into her chair. Everypony changed tone as dark rumours began to circulate as whispers.

“You’ve seen how much she’s changed lately?” one advisor whispered a little too audibly.

“I’m sure she’s just having a few off days,” an older pony snapped.

“I heard that she kicked Shieldwall from the guard yesterday for losing his helmet,” one of the door guards mumbled to the other.

“I’m sure she has her reasons. Frankly, Shieldwall was incompetent anyway,” the other guard replied.

“Uhh, Tia? Are you sure that was a good idea?” Luna piped up as the administrators fell back into arguments.

“Put on the tension, quicken procedures up a little.” Celestia lounged back in her chair as she stared down the crowd in front of her.

“Did you see their reactions?” Luna whispered. As soon as she’d finished she suddenly leapt to her hooves. “Sister, they fear you.”

“What? Why?” Celestia demanded as quietly as she could manage.

“You have been a bit... irritable as of late.”

“Do you know what day it is?”

“Does it matter?”

“Does it matter?” Celestia scoffed. “Does it matter! Yesterday was update day!”

Some of the assembled dignitaries began to quieten as they listened in to the arguing sisters.

“Look, Tia. I know it hurts, but it has been five years. We hadn’t seen her for even longer before that.”

“Don’t say it!” Celestia shouted back with a torrent of frenzied saliva.

“I’m not going to say it. I’m just stating the fact that we can’t do anything about it. Let’s just focus on the matter at hoof. We have a meeting to preside over.”

“All they ever do is fight!”

“That just proves that they need us to mediate!”

“They’d do a fine job mucking it up themselves.”

“This is a forum of free ideas! Anything that needs to be voiced can be voiced here and talked through into a workable solution.”

“In theory.”

“Fine. Then we'll do it my way!" Luna shouted as she rose to her hooves.

“Well what would you have us do, oh glorious Princess of the Night,” Celestia sneered back.

“Oh buck off Sunshine!”

“That’s it!” Celestia screamed as she rose to her hooves, only to realise that the entire assembly was staring at her with a mix of curiosity and fear. “My sister and I are going to take a short break. In the mean time, why don’t you see if you can process a few of these problems?” Celestia said sweetly before teleporting out of the hall and into her bedroom. Luna tried to back away from the blinding wall of light, but it encompassed her completely. The two ponies vanished from the meeting hall.

The assembly waited a few minutes in complete silence, before suddenly exploding with noise as everypony turned to their neighbour to gossip about the Princesses.

The elevator stopped with a shudder and the large door opened allowing Shepard to walk through.

“Commander Shepard! A word if you would.”

Shepard spun on his heels to see Diana Allers walking out of her room in port side storage. He cursed inwardly but maintained an amicable smile as she walked up to him.

“I’m doing a report on the fall of Thessia, but Liara doesn’t seem to want to talk about it. Would you mind being interviewed for a report?”

“Can we keep it short, Diana?”

“Of course, Commander. If you’d just follow me,” she said politely before leading Shepard into the storage room. She touched a floating green pad in front of the door and a circle on the pad whirled. With a quiet pssh, the door split into three different sections and pulled open.

A large cupboard sat on the opposite wall covered in assorted journalism paraphernalia: pictures, recording equipment and an omnitool. Half of the room was divided into a recording studio. White paint covered the walls and floors. Shepard could see a bed through the door on the other side of the room.

Diana whistled as she entered and a small camera droid floated up into the air. The small flat robot had a large camera mounted on its right side. It flew over to the reporter, before stopping in front of her. She motioned for Shepard to join her.

Shepard sighed inwardly as he strode over to the camera and stepped in front of it besides the reporter. He nodded to signify he was ready.

“This is Diana Allers, live onboard the SSV Normandy SR2. I’m here with the illustrious Commander Shepard who was recently on Thessia. Shepard, do you think Thessia has already fallen to the Reaper horde?”

“No planet has truly fallen yet, Diana. A planet is only fallen when every single soul in the galaxy has given up on it, and I haven’t yet. As soon as we liberate Earth from the Reaper horde, then we can start to focus on bringing other planets back to the fold: Thessia, Palaven, Khar’Shan. Now is a time for unity, now is a time to hold together, and push back the Reaper horde.”

“But don’t you worry that other races will only see humanity trying to liberate their own planet?”

“Other races need to understand that Earth is where this war is won or lost. Earth is where the Reapers are concentrating their forces. Earth is where Harbinger, the Reaper commander, is stationed. Once Earth is retaken, and the main Reaper fleet is destroyed, then the newly formed galactic fleet can take out the remaining resistance in Palaven and Thessia, before pushing on to retake Khar’shan. Every race needs to consolidate our forces in order for this to work, and we’re already seeing this happen. The Turian and Krogan operations on Palaven are a striking example of intergalactic cooperation. If we all stand together, then we will get through this.” Shepard paced as he spoke, his voice impassioned and strong.

“Very nice, Commander. Cut! You did great, Commander. You always manage to sound so inspiring.”

“Good, I just need to go see…” Shepard began but was suddenly cut off.

“Would Commander Shepard report to the bridge, please. That’s Commander Shepard to the bridge, thank you,” Joker called through the ship’s intercom system in his best shop manager impression.

“Joker,” Shepard said with a smirk as he turned to return to the elevator.

“Oh, and Commander?” Diana called from behind him.

“What is it?” Shepard tried to suppress the anger that audibly tinged his voice.

“Do I have permission to interview Garrus about the events on Thessia?” she continued unfazed.

“If he consents,” Shepard replied tersely before heading to the elevator. The door shut behind him.

Shepard hit the big “2” button to return to the Combat Information Centre. As the elevator began its rise, he leaned back against the wall and massaged his temple. Diana Allers is such a pain, but I need all the good press I can get. It is morale boosting, Shepard reasoned with a shrug.

The elevator suddenly stopped jarringly. Shepard brought up his omnitool and tried to bring up the display. The button was unresponsive. Suddenly the elevator was filled with a blinding white light.

Celestia appeared in Luna’s bedroom with a dazzling display of white light. A split second later, a very dazed Luna appeared in mid-air and fell to the floor. Celestia turned to her prone sister with tears in her eyes. “Luna! We're the only Alicornians left. We can’t keep fighting like this.”

Luna dragged herself to her hooves and shouted angrily, “Well I just can’t help it. If we had it your way, Equestria would still be in the dark ages!"

“I wouldn’t go that far. I've allowed technology that improves their quality of life.”

"But there's no progress! These are the same debates we were having five hundred years ago!"

“When we created the pony race, we agreed that they had to be controlled for their own safety!”

“Look around you! In thirty-five thousand years we’ve barely taken a step. Civilisation is stagnating!” Luna shouted wildly. She paced to and fro as she shouted in a desperate attempt to funnel her rage elsewhere.

“Remember the alternative, Luna,” Celestia said with a sad sigh.

“We can’t just restrict scientific advancement forever!”

“Why not? That was the original plan! You know it’s the only safe option.”

“But… it just isn’t right,” Luna tried to shout, but the fight was gone from her. Luna sat on her haunches and let out her own sad sigh. Tears began to well up, but she bit her lip in a vain attempt to suppress it. She flinched as she felt a hoof on her shoulder. Looking back Celestia’s warm magenta eyes met Luna’s colder cyan ones. Luna leaned forwards into a hug.

“You know that it’s for their own good. The cycle will repeat. The only way we can ensure their continued survival – our continued survival is to restrict technological progress,” Celestia said softly as she stroked Luna’s mane with her hoof.

“I know. It’s just… it’s not right.”

“We promised Faust that we’d keep our race alive.”

“Faust is dead,” Luna said coldly.

Celestia snapped back in response, pulling out of the hug and pushing Luna away. “Never say that, Luna! Faust is out there! I just…” Celestia began angrily when she suddenly froze.

Luna noticed the sudden pause and her eyes widened. “It isn’t?” she asked worriedly.

“I think it might be. Luna, head to the lunar facility and run a system wide scan. Something is probing our magical field,” Celestia announced in a monotone.

Luna shook her head in response. "As joint ruler of Equestria, I think that I have the right to negotiate with extraterrestrials once in a while. Why don't you man the guns for once?"

"You know what, Luna? Fine. I've had enough of you complaining that we never deal with aliens fairly. Maybe this will convince you of how detestable this cycle is." With that scathing comment, Celestia lit her horn with a flash and teleported away.

Luna closed her eyes and focused on her horn. In her mind’s eye, she could see the black backdrop of space illuminated by strings of light blue energy that spread out in all directions. With a push, she navigated the weaves of magical energy that surrounded the planet. Sure enough one of them was flashing a deep orange. With a frown, she soared along the magical line. In the distance she could make out something flying towards the planet, and cursed inwardly. Somehow the craft had passed the long-range sensors without setting them off. There was only one thing for it.

Her ethereal, magical form entered the ship through the bridge window with no trouble at all. Inside she saw the crew: bipedal, hairless apes. They looked familiar. When the alicornians had realised they faced extinction, they began to catalogue as many species and their genetic profiles as they could. Humans were one of the many species recorded. One of the pet species the Protheans had kept under wraps. Seeing that none of the humans could detect her, she soared through the ship. The ship reminded her a lot of the lunar research base. It was constructed of the same metals and holographic interfaces.

She entered the large door at the end to find it led to an elevator shaft. Below her the elevator appeared to be rising, inside stood a perfect target for a one-on-one discussion. She entered the large elevator through the roof and focused her magic. With a grunt she managed to create a time bubble around the elevator which she then entered. The human inside appeared to be fiddling with some kind of wrist-mounted computer. With another grunt of effort she transported her physical form into the elevator with a flash of bright, white light.

Contact

[A/N: Big thanks to Humanist and Biohazard here on Fimfic for helping to organise and improve upon my original ideas, as well as pre-reading this chapter. A big thanks to pre-reader Tactical!Rainboom over on Ponychan too. Without them this story would be a lot lamer. Seriously, they've probably saved me from making a complete fool of myself. While we're here, I'm also going to say that Javik will not be making an appearance. I didn't shell out for the day one DLC, and I don't think I can write a companion I've only read about.]

Shepard didn’t hesitate. With a subtle manipulation of his fingers, he drew his omniblade and... he drew his omniblade and. With a wince, Shepard realised that whatever was blocking the omnitool display coming up had also restricted his omniblade. Shepard tried to keep himself composed as he looked over the creature that had just appeared in the elevator with him. It was quadrupedal, and stood slightly lower than Shepard, like a short legged elcor. Its coat was a midnight blue in colour, and a vicious, sharp horn protruded from its head. A long flowing mane of dark blue adorned the back of its head dotted with stars. It reminded Shepard a lot of the galaxy map, an identical tail jutting from its rear. Then it hit Shepard: this was a unicorn. He was eye-to-eye with a unicorn, which seemed to be waiting for him to speak.

Calm down Shepard, first appearances are everything. You've spoke with Rachni and Protheans, you can handle a uh... unicorn. With his best diplomatic tone, he began, “My name is Commander Shepard: Systems Alliance ship captain and Council Spectre.” He held out his hand in what he hoped would be perceived as a friendly gesture. His universal translator was installed in his N7 armour, which at the current moment in time was in the armour locker on deck five. He was just hoping that the gesture would at least be understood, maybe even reciprocated.

The unicorn’s horn glowed again and Shepard flinched backwards. With an impassive face, the unicorn opened its mouth and spoke in perfect English. “I am Princess Luna, co-ruler of the planet Equus. You are trespassing on our territory. We would like to know why.” Got him. Mimicking speech patterns was foal’s play. Remember what Faust taught us, “In most diplomatic incidents the course of which side wins is decided in the first few minutes.”

Shepard tried his best to maintain a façade of calm on the outside. Inside, however, his brain was a torrent of activity as it tried to make anything out of the irregular situation. Some kind of alien disguised as a unicorn… wait… disguised as a winged unicorn has caught me defenceless. Breathe Shepard, don’t show any weakness. For all you know this could be a Cerberus construct, something to keep you off track. With a carefully measured smile, Shepard replied with, “We are searching the nebulae for a rogue human sect. We have detected a signal emanating from your planet; Equus as you called it.”

“We can assure you that there are no humans on Equus, and that there never have been. We suggest you bring your ship into lunar base where we can speak more freely,” Luna suggested, excitement creeping into her voice. I hope that the human takes this chance to dock. Nothing will revitalise our planet like a visit from an alien race. Intellectual freedom is something that every species needs to thrive, even if Celestia can’t see that yet.

Shepard mulled over the creature’s request. I can’t take this thing’s word for it. Chances are it’s a Cerberus construct. I’m not flying this ship into a Cerberus trap. Okay, as tactful as possible, Shepard. You can’t risk a diplomatic incident if it is real. “While I appreciate the gesture, it is of the utmost importance to galactic security that I am allowed to examine the signal source directly.”

Luna cursed inwardly. He had refused the offer. Things were not going to get pretty if he persisted on this route.

The voice of her fellow Alicornian suddenly filled her head. “Celestia reporting in, station defences are fully operational. Leave the ship, and I’ll take care of it.”

“Not now, Celestia. I am trying to resolve this peacefully,” Luna sent back.

“You didn’t have any reserves about destroying potential enemy vessels in the past.”

“This is a military vessel; not the usual pirate or slaver ship coming into the system to hide. The captain seems almost reasonable for once.”

“If the ship is allowed to leave, how many aliens will know of our existence? Better to have ships scanning debris than vessels approaching our planet.”

“Sister, we both know this couldn’t last forever. Besides, blowing up a military vessel will lead to a long investigation. If this ship picked us up, how many of the rescue vessels will too?”

There was a short pause before Celestia replied, “I'll hold back for now.”

“Thank you, Celestia.” Luna said almost joyously.

All of this had occurred in a split-second. As far as Shepard was concerned she was just meditating on a reply.

“We can’t let just anypo-anybody scan the planet. For all we know you could be looking for a gap in our defences. Perhaps if you could shed some light on these human antagonists, we might be able to come to a compromise.” Luna gave up a tiny slither of ground, but in as strategic a manner as she could manage. Let’s hope he doesn’t push any further.

Shepard seized the opportunity with all his gusto. If I can talk not one, but two angry Krogan into standing down, then I can handle a winged unicorn. That is, unless it actually is a Cerberus construct. Well, here goes nothing. “This group of terrorists, calling themselves Cerberus, has stolen a top secret artefact from the Asari home world of Thessia. This artefact held the key to defeating the Reapers, an adv…” Shepard began in his impassioned and inspirational tone.

“Reapers?” It was Luna’s turn to recoil in shock.

Shepard tried his best not to frown, despite being more than a little put-off from having his carefully orchestrated speech interrupted. But had that been a spark of recognition, and not just recognition, emotion? There’s no way a Cerberus construct would react like that; even an AI wouldn’t have been able to fake such strong a reaction. In fact, only something that knew what a Reaper was would act that way. “Luna” had just shown her first card. Now it’s time to push the point home. “You know of the Reapers?” Shepard asked, as he tried his best not to look smug about it.

Look at his face. That cost me a few negotiation points, but maybe I can turn this around. “As do you, and that means you’ve reached the end of your cycle,” Luna replied, switching back to her neutral voice. Shepard maintained his façade of calmness, but Luna could sense that had hit hard.

Wait a second! If they know of the Reapers, then they must have some pretty advanced technology. Advanced technology that could help us stop the Reapers, maybe it’s time to start recruiting? Here goes nothing. “If you know of the cycle and the Reapers, then I can only assume that you have seen their work firsthand.”

“Unfortunately,” Luna said with a sad sigh. Luna tried her best to maintain composure, as images bombarded her mind: pictures of cities in ruins, Alicornians butchered in the streets, entire worlds in flames; and behind it all was the mechanical cries of the merciless machines themselves.

There was a reason that he was allowed to speak on behalf of Humanity and the Council; Shepard was a born negotiator, able to read anybody regardless of species. He could clearly see the effect it had on Luna, despite her efforts to prevent it. Her lips pursed a little tighter; her irises moved slightly downwards, almost imperceptible to the untrained eye. This could be turned to his advantage. “We’re fighting back,” Shepard shouted confidently, as he took a step forward.

Luna barely stopped a scoff. Adopting what she thought was her neutral voice again she replied, “The Protheans fought back. No species can resist the Reapers for long.”

Shepard could hear the slight tinges of sadness in her voice as before, but there was something new; it was very faint, but Shepard could sense the seeds of hope. He adjusted his speech accordingly. “Not alone. In order to get through this we need to work together. Every species is joining together to form a galactic armada. Together, we will defeat the Reapers, and liberate this galaxy from its cruel cycle.”

She wanted to cast it down as lies and slander. The Reapers were nigh invincible. But what if it were true? What if this cycle has finally progressed past the mistakes of the previous cycles? What if they finally managed to consolidate their resources, and cast aside petty differences? With a glow of her horn she attempted to glean something from his mind, but it seemed oddly unresponsive to her. Must be some kind of species difference, she reasoned. She prepared another mental message for her sister. “Celestia, this Shepard. He claims the Reapers have returned.”

“Then we might as well destroy the ship now. They’re already dead.” Celestia replied flatly.

“This human told me that the entire galaxy is working together to destroy the Reapers.”

“Hah! Pull the other hoof. Our cycle wouldn’t listen to anything but force! Intergalactic cooperation? I’ll believe that when I see it!” Celestia replied rather rudely.

“I’m not joking. My instincts tell me that he’s telling the truth, and my instincts never lie.”

“No, but aliens do. It’s not worth endangering the pony race for a ship full of aliens. Get back here and let me open fire.”

“No, Celestia,” Luna replied adamantly.

“Luna. If you are not back here in ten seconds, then I will open fire with you onboard! Forget this ridiculous notion of yours that we can just change the plan. Faust’s word is law! I’m beginning to think that maybe you weren’t reset far enough!” Celestia shouted back; her voice was full of rage.

“Sister…” Luna mumbled weakly in reply.

The anger in Celestia’s voice was gone in a heartbeat; in its place was sorrow. “I-I’m sorry, Luna; I lost it a bit there, didn’t I?”

“Tia. I know- I know this is hard on you. You were always Faust’s favourite. But we haven’t received a signal in years.”

“That’s still no reason to abandon hope.”

Luna had to stop another snide comment from bursting through. Then an idea hit her. She may not be as good at convincing other ponies as her sister, but she knew Celestia well. She knew which buttons to press, and she was willing to press them, if there was a chance that it would get these humans onto the lunar base. “Look, maybe these humans could help locate Faust?”

“What?”

“They have a ship. They were able to locate our signal. Stands to reason that they would be able to locate Faust’s too. Same technology, isn’t it?”

After a few tense microseconds, Celestia relented. “Bring them up to lunar base, but if we’re letting them in then I’m going to need access to their records. I’m not letting a potentially hostile species assist with such an important task.”

Luna sighed with relief. If Celestia hadn’t agreed, then it would have been bye-bye humans and farewell progress.

“Oh, and I’m leaving the defensive grid active. Any alien that wants to board will need their DNA recorded in the archives. I’m only going to approve aliens with unblemished records,” Celestia replied a bit haughtily for Luna’s liking.

“Thank you, Celestia. That’s all I ask for.” Luna replied as politely as she could manage, before severing the link. Without skipping a beat, she turned straight to Shepard. “Your ship has been given permission to dock at lunar base. There we will give you access to any scans or equipment you might find necessary.Get your ship to follow me in. If you stray too far from the intended course though, then we will be forced to open fire. I’m sure you understand, Shepard.” With a smile and another flash of light, Luna was gone.

Shepard fell to the ground as the elevator suddenly started up again. He shook his head. Was that real? Did I dream that?

The elevator suddenly found itself bathed in red light, and full of too much noise. The loud warble of the alarm was eardrum-splittingly loud. Shepard stumbled to his feet, and brought around his omnitool. A press on the central button brought up the screen display, as if nothing had ever gone wrong. Inside the floating display was a picture of Joker bathed in the same red light as the one in the elevator.

“Commander! We’ve got weapons powering up on the moon!” Joker shouted. His arms could be seen flying from panel to panel of the pilot’s console.

Shepard instantly recalled Luna’s last words. “Don’t do anything rash! It’s an invitation to enter.”

“What?” Joker shouted back over the deafening alarms. His eyes as he glanced at the display said it all.

“It’s a long story. Don’t do anything until I reach the bridge.” Shepard shouted back.

“As long as you’re sure, Commander, I’m not losing another Normandy.” Joker said with a sigh as he disconnected.

Shepard retracted the display back into the omnitool. With a sharp push, he checked the omniblade. Sure enough it extended and returned completely fine now. That winged unicorn must have been suppressing it somehow, Shepard reasoned.

When he elevator door finally rumbled open, Shepard sprinted onto the deck. Crewmen were running between consoles, then tapping in key information before sprinting to the next. On reflection, maybe we shouldn’t be running with a skeleton crew, Shepard thought to himself as he ran past. Somehow the din of rushed conversation and orders was louder than the trill of the alarm. Shepard passed a few manned stations before bursting into the cockpit. Joker was in the pilot’s seat, but turned it around when Shepard walked in.

“Geez Commander, I hope you can explain why we’re not reacting to a heavily armed platform taking aim at us,” Joker said flippantly.

“In a minute, Joker, just follow that spark. Shepard pointed out of the window and to a bright white light that seemed to be hovering in front of them.

“What the hell is that? It’s not showing up on any of our sensors!”

“Pinging it with laser detection and ranging software,” EDI announced from her co-pilot seat.

“There’s no need. We’re just wasting time. Follow it in, Joker,” Shepard ordered, adopting his authoritative voice.

“Laser detection and ranging software is still scanning. Engaging FTL speeds will distort results.” EDI synthetic voice announced with its usual tone, but at a higher volume.

“Just go, Joker. We can’t afford to wait five minutes for the LADAR to churn something out! They have weapons trained on us; follow them in,” Shepard practically barked the order. We’ve been lucky so far; we can’t afford to insult them. That “Luna” didn’t seem the joking type.

Joker met Shepard’s stare and held it for a few seconds, before giving a resolute nod. “You got it, Commander,” he said professionally. With a few button presses, the ship once again shot into FTL speeds.

The spark managed to keep at exactly the same speed; it easily kept pace with the Normandy. With a tight grin, Joker shoved the throttle forwards with his firm but gentle grip, coaxing a bit more speed from the drive core. His grin instantly vanished when somehow the spark managed to continue to keep at their pace. In fact, the spark seemed to speed up in retaliation, beginning to push away from the Normandy. “Oh no you don’t,” Joker whispered to himself as he narrowed his eyes. Without tearing his gaze away from the spark, he tapped away at the console in front of him with his free hand.

“Joker, are you sure you want to redirect power from the weapons to the engines?” EDI asked from behind him.

“I know what I’m doing, ma!” Joker shouted back.

Shepard rolled his eyes. “This isn’t a race, Joker.”

“I know that too, pa!” Joker replied, somehow even more sarcastically than before.

Even with the power boost, the spark still easily outran the Normandy. Joker’s teeth gritted tighter as he began to tap furiously at his consoles. The alarm suddenly stopped blaring and the lights began to flicker.

“Hey! What gives? I just boosted output by another 2% when somebody stole all my power!” Garrus’s throaty voice shouted over the intercom.

“Will you shut up, Garrus! Here’s a newsflash: nobody cares.” Joker shouted back.

“Whoa! What’s with all the hostility?”

“It’s nothing, Garrus. Joker’s just getting schooled by some errant light bulb,” Shepard replied. There was a short pause afterwards, presumably as Garrus tried to assemble his thoughts.

“You know what, never mind. Just get the cannon back up as soon as you can manage,” Garrus eventually replied.

“Will do, see you in a few,” Shepard replied before turning the intercom off with a quick button press.

Joker was now hammering at his console, his eyes mere slits as he stared daggers at the spark that dared to fly ahead of them.

"Joker, we're approaching the moon. You can slow down now," Shepard said calmly.

The spark was right in front of them when it suddenly vanished. Behind it a piece of the moon that looked identical to the rest separated; the rocky floor parting to reveal a secret hangar bay.

"That's no moon. It's a space station!" Joker shouted as he slammed on the brakes. The ship slowed down to a crawl mere miles from the exposed hangar bay. "What now?" he added.

“Intrusion attempt detected. Activating cyberwarfare suite,” EDI announced from her co-pilot seat.

“They’re hacking into the Normandy!” Joker shouted to Shepard who still seemed focused on the open bay in front of them.

“Blocking port 724, rerouting signal blockers to port 213,” EDI continued as her fingers danced across the keyboard.

“Enter the hangar bay, Joker,” Shepard said quietly.

“Port 452 is compromised, quarantining ports 452-483.”

“Shepard, this is clearly a trap!” Joker returned.

“Activating viral defence procedures.”

“It isn’t. Joker, bring us in. EDI, let them in.”

“Shepard, this is highly inadvisable.”

“I’m not going to risk the Normandy just so,” Joker began simultaneously.

“If they wanted us dead, they would have just blown us out of the sky. It would be rude to turn down an invitation."

“Allowing foreign signals access to systems,” EDI said in her impossible to gauge, synthetic tone.

“Yes, Commander,” Joker replied in his much more telling organic tone.

Joker tapped a few more buttons and eased the ship into the hangar bay. As the ship entered the cavernous white room, the holographic display that used to show EDI suddenly lit up. On the dais was another winged unicorn made of blue light.

“We bid you welcome to the lunar facility. My name is Cadence and I will be your VI guide. Before we allow you into the facility proper however, we need access to your databases, if you’d please.”

“EDI?” Shepard called, turning to the AI.

“Granting remote access to stored data; despite personal reservations.”

“Your hesitance is duly noted.”

“Excellent choice, Commander. Give us an hour to sift through this and we will get back to you. Thank you for your assistance,” the hologram announced before vanishing again.

"EDI? Could you ask all our squadmates to meet in the meeting room; we have something to discuss."

"Yes, Commander," EDI replied.

"Commander, are you sure you're okay? I mean, if these guys are tricking you, then aren't you just handing yourself over on a silver platter?"

"Come on, Joker. Have a little faith." Shepard said with a reassuring pat on Joker's shoulder. Joker sighed quietly before returning to his console. Shepard turned with a nod and walked back down from the bridge. He continued to the door on the left side of the elevator with a passing nod at Traynor. She was too engrossed with the console in front of her to notice; she was probably trying to piece something together from the scraps of data from the ship's sensors. Shepard stepped through the door and into the scanner.

"Commander!" Privates Campbell and Westmoreland shouted simultaneously as he walked in before returning to their previous conversation.

"I heard that this could be another Cerberus trap, just like Thessia!" Westmoreland said from her corner.

"Impossible. Commander Shepard wouldn't walk into the same trap twice." Campbell returned.

"I don't know. Cerberus can be pretty tricky."

"Do you two mind not talking about this while I'm right here?" Shepard said resignedly, while the wall of blue light passed through him and back again.

"Sorry, Commander. You're free to pass," Westmoreland said with an apologetic nod.

"Thank you," Shepard said with a curt nod. He then proceeded through into the meeting room. Knowing he had some time to spare before the other would arrive, he decided to check up on the war room data. He walked passed the meeting room and a brief glance told him that the rest of his squad hadn’t assembled yet. With a shrug, he decided to enter the circular room at the end of the corridor. More consoles lined the walls in here too, most manned by other crewmen.

Walking up to the dais in the centre caused an orange keyboard of light to materialise. With a few taps, the blue light inside the dais began to take form. He was now staring at the near-complete Crucible. As soon as the Catalyst was located, it could be quickly fitted and fired. Fortunately, the Reapers hadn't located it yet. A few decoy projects had recently been ravaged by the Reapers, and everyone knew they were getting closer. Shepard sighed. Every person killed since he had lost the Prothean VI at Thessia was entirely his fault. All of these Alliance staff who had died defending decoys would still be breathing if he'd beaten Kai Leng. The only thing stopping Shepard from falling into despondency was the knowledge that if he did, even more lives would be lost as a result.

"Shepard?" a voice called out from behind him.

Shepard didn't even need to turn to recognise Tali's Quarian twang. "One minute, Tali. Is everybody else ready?" Shepard asked as he continued tapping at the holographic keyboard.

"We're just waiting on James." she reported.

"I'll be with you in a second," Shepard replied.

"Don't keep us waiting too long. Garrus has some concerns about the status of the main cannon," Tali said jokingly as she turned and left.

Shepard couldn't help but smirk at that. With a few final taps, the display turned off and the dais once again dulled. Shepard turned and returned to the hallway to see a human marine walk in from the security checkpoint.

"Loco! Just the man I wanted to see! Do you have any idea why we need to go through that security scanner every damn time we want to enter the war room? I know they're all about security and stuff, but they know who we are," James said as he strolled down the corridor.

A glance through the glass walls of the meeting room told him that everyone else was indeed waiting. Turning back to James, Shepard replied with, "It scans for any traces of indoctrination. A single indoctrinated individual could shut down the entire war effort from that console. We need to be extremely careful," Shepard replied professionally.

James just shrugged and stopped right in front of Shepard. "Going in?" he said with a smile.

"After you, Lieutenant Vega," Shepard replied with a nod towards the door.

James shrugged again and entered the meeting room, and took his place around the table.

Shepard walked in after him and stopped at the head of the table. Looking around at each individual's face, Shepard tried to gauge their current reactions to what was going on: Vega looked uninformed, as always; EDI was a robot, so almost impossible to tell; Tali's helmet obscured her face from view, only showing two pinpricks of purple light where her eyes should be; Garrus looked slightly cranky, probably still sore about losing his calibration data; Liara was puzzled, she obviously had some clue as to what was going on but not a complete picture; Kaidan returned Shepard's stare, ready for anything as always.

"I'm sure most of you are at least somewhat aware of what has happened over the past hour. In case you aren’t, let me fill you in," Shepard began..

One Small Step

[A/N: Another big thank you to Humanist and Biohazard for prereading, and being there to bounce ideas off. Biohazard also gave me this vastly superior title. They are both awesome. A big thanks to pre-reader Tactical!Rainboom over on Ponychan too for helping iron out the remaining kinks.]

Shepard looked around at the faces of his assembled crewmen. Despite the inherent incredulity of what he had just announced, almost all of them seemed to accept it; almost all of them.

"What the hell, Commander? Are you saying that we just almost got blown up by unicorns? What have you been smoking! I know you’re loco, but this is a whole 'nother level!" James shouted at the top of his voice as he slammed a fist on the table.

"Shepard's right. Something has always been up in this system. Batarian slavers used to use this system to hide from Alliance retribution, but a number of them went missing and never resurfaced," Liara said as she fiddled with her omni-tool. The display popped open with an Alliance military report on the matter.

"So? Slavers going off the grid; is that really a big surprise?"

"Not on its own, no. This was not a lone incident, however. Two thousand years before that, krogan attempted to mine the planet Drevo. The operation suffered numerous setbacks, such as an inconsistent power supply and massive communication problems. Eventually the operation was deemed too costly and the planet was abandoned." Liara brought up another document signed by one Drakel; the apparent head of the short-lived Krogan mining company, Tenvum Rock Shatterers.

"So we have an unlucky group of Krogan and a few missing Batarians, and that means we should believe that unicorns are behind it? I ain't buying this, Loco," James shouted again.

Shepard cast his famous analytical gaze towards Vega. James's teeth were gritted together and beads of sweat were travelling down his forehead. He's starting to come around, but he'll need visual proof. "EDI, can you bring up surveillance footage from the main elevator."

EDI's omni-tool briefly flashed up, before she shook her head. "Negative, Commander. The camera appears to have been blanked. I detected no intrusion into the network before this "Cadence". She may have wiped the camera when you allowed her access to the systems."

"Cadence? That was the V.I. you mentioned briefly, right?" Tali spoke up in her thick Quarian accent.

"Yes; Cadence should still be inside the system."

"You didn't allow her access to the war room, did you?"

"The war room runs on a separate and more secure circuit. Without my word, EDI can't even access the main console."

"Hang on! I think we're getting off-track here. Am I the only sane person here? Shepard is talking about magical horses with wings and you all just believe it?" James shouted again. He looked around to see the accepting looks on everyone else's faces.

"Last time I didn't believe in the Commander, I almost helped Cerberus kill the Council," Kaidan said with a sad sigh.

"That was different! There is a big difference between Cerberus and unicorns," James bellowed once more. Shepard noted that he was getting more and more worked up.

Garrus sighed and turned to face James. "Has Shepard ever let you down?"

"What's that got to do with anything?" James asked incredulously.

"Has Shepard ever let you down?" Garrus repeated firmly.

James went through a vast array of facial expressions, before exhaling and saying, "No."

"Then why would he now?"

"But... friggin unicorns man!" James whined.

"I've seen things with Shepard that I still don't believe. We've fought Rachni, we've exterminated Protheans, we've saved entire worlds with nothing but words," Garrus said in a clearly heart-felt manner, before adding with one of his throaty laughs, "Basically, Shepard is a magnet for the weird."

"Thanks, Garrus," Shepard said with a brief chuckle.

"I mean look at all of us," Garrus said with another laugh. "Have you ever seen such a motley crew? We've got a Quarian admiral, a Turian vigilante, an L2 implanted Human biotic, the Shadow Broker, and an illegal A.I."

Shepard noted James's rage seemed to be boiling down. His breathing became more regular, although he still seemed to be shaking a little; however, that could just be an after-effect of his outburst.

The table suddenly lit up as the virtual display popped up with a familiar sight. "Cadence," Shepard said with a nod.

"I have analysed your data banks and selected three individuals to be given landing clearance: Lieutenant James Vega, Major Kaidan Alenko and Admiral Tali Zorah nar Rayya vas Normandy."

"I ain't going out there without the Commander!" James shouted, before realising how infantile that sounded and looking around embarrassedly.

"Princess Luna has vouched for your character, Shepard, despite evidence proving the contrary. The invitation has been extended to you as well.

"Hey, what about me and Liara?" Garrus asked.

"Liara has killed for profit and information as the Shadow Broker. You killed several notable criminals without trial. Both of which contradict directly with laws lain out by your Citadel Council. Celestia has requested that I not allow any criminals on board the station," the VI replied to the Turian, before turning back to Shepard. "I have been instructed to ask that all of you leave your weapons behind."

"Hang on! I'm not going out there without my guns!" James shouted, again.

"Vega's right. We can't chance leaving our weapons behind," Kaidan added.

"No weapons are permitted aboard the station."

"How about sidearms only? That's a compromise for everyone," Shepard said tactfully.

"This is not negotiable, Shepard."

"How can you expect us to trust you if you don't trust us? Trust is a two-way street," Shepard argued.

"This is not negotiable, Shepard," the VI repeated in exactly the same tone.

"Can't you contact your superiors? See if we can work this out?" Liara asked from behind the VI.

"This is not negotiab..." the VI began again.

"It is of no use arguing with a VI," EDI interjected.

Shepard breathed out hard. I've already thrown myself at their mercy when I ordered the ship into the hangar bay, but this is just a slap to the face. I need to set boundaries, but I can't push too hard. This is either the perfect trap or a unique opportunity. I can't risk myself needlessly, but maybe these people are just a peaceful race.

"Shepard, we need all of the allies we can get," Liara said softly.

Garrus looked at her as if she were crazy. "Shepard, you can't trust these... these... things you've only just met with your life!"

"Who knows what kind of technology they have? They could be the tipping point in this war. They may even know what the Catalyst is!" Liara replied, her pitch rising with excitement.

"That's your reasoning?" Garrus shouted as he turned to Liara and made as if to poke her in the chest but stopped halfway.

"This is ridiculous! They're more than likely to stab you in the back! Even if this is some undiscovered species, that doesn't mean you're safe. Remember the Yahg? They butchered their first contact party," Kaidan added.

"From what Shepard has said these could be a remnant of the last cycle! Imagine the technological bounty that they possess. It's entirely possible that they developed a way to hide from the Reapers!" Liara shouted as her eyes began to glow blue.

"We need ways to fight, not hide," Garrus sputtered.

Vega weighed back into the argument, "Yeah, what we need is a really big friggin' gun."

"Liara's right; this is the closest thing we have had to a lead since we set off," Tali said, joining in on the debate.

Shepard nodded to Tali and cleared his throat. All attention shifted to him as he spoke, "We've been wandering aimlessly around the galaxy for long enough. Every day we don't have the Catalyst, more and more people die. If this gives us even the slimmest chance of leading us to the Catalyst, then I am willing to do it."

"If you die, Shepard, then our shot at destroying the Reapers is gone. You're the only thing holding the fleets together," Kaidan said softly. "Face it, Commander, without you there is no war."

"The Reapers grow closer to the Crucible every day. I can't afford to pass up a chance like this," Shepard replied as he met Kaidan's stare. He then turned to the VI display. "We agree to your conditions, Cadence. We will be departing from the bottom of the craft."

"Excellent choice, Commander. You won't regret this. Princess Luna will be waiting to meet you there," Cadence replied, before her display vanished without a trace.

Shepard turned back to the crew and their conflicted expressions. With an authoritative tone, Shepard began, "Okay, team, this is just another mission. Liara, I want you to use your connections and see what you can track down."

"Of course, Shepard. I'll see if I can find any reference at all to Alicornians," Liara replied with a dutiful salute, before turning and leaving the room.

"Garrus, you've got the deck while I'm not here. Work with Traynor if you can; she's analysing the sensor data. See what you can find out."

"You can count on me, Shepard, but make sure to come back in one piece," Garrus replied with a nod, and walking out. "I'd hate to have to take out the Reapers by myself," he said as he passed through the door with a backwards wave.

"EDI, head back to the bridge, and keep Joker company. Keep an eye on Cadence, and see what you can learn from her," Shepard added as he turned to the metal chassis.

"Understood, Shepard," she replied as she too stood up and walked out.

"James, Kaidan, I think casual wear will suffice for this; don't bother suiting up. Okay, everybody needs to leave their weapons behind and make any necessary preparations. In ten minutes I want to see all three of you on deck five, and ready to go," Shepard said to a chorus of, "Yes, Sir!".

Luna reappeared in the weapon control room. The station was painted a clinical white; the ceilings, the floors, the walls; all where comprised of simple white tiles. This particular room was packed full of powered down workstations, all but one. In the corner of the room sat a white alicorn hunched over a computer with her horn plugged into an outlet. The air carried no scent whatsoever, and the room was well lit with a strong fluorescent glare.

"Celestia?" Luna called softly.

The white alicorn pulled her horn out of the slot and turned to face the dark blue alicorn. The expression on her face was calm and composed, but Luna could see the fire in her eyes.

"Luna. The internal defence grid has been set to automatic. It will react to any signs of violence with a verbal warning; If that goes ignored, then it’ll hit them with a strong dose of sedative," Celestia said; her voice seemed cold and detached.

"Thanks for letting them land, sis. I know it's hard, but we have to recognise the extent of our meddling," Luna said softly as she trotted towards the white alicorn.

"This isn't about that!" Celestia snapped, before regaining her composure. "This is about Faust. Even aliens should recognise her importance. Equestria has gone without its queen for too long."

"I'm sure the human vessel can assist with this matter," Luna said more confidently than she felt. "I appointed Cadence to act as a go-between," she added in a not so subtle topic change.

"With Cadence up here too, who's overseeing Equestria?"

Luna rubbed the back of her neck awkwardly, "Uhh... I figured it was.. uh... Blueblood's chance to finally realise his potential."

"Blueblood?" Celestia shouted incredulously. "Ugh, the council is going to have a field day," she added with a groan.

"I thought you appointed him as your flesh and blood successor?"

"I appointed his great, great, great grandfather to the role. Stalwart was a brave knight and brilliant politician who commanded respect from the army and civilians alike. Blueblood is an incompetent foal who can't even control himself."

"I can't believe you, Tia! I thought that you were finally grooming somepony to take over when we can finally withdraw. We can run the entire planet from up here; we don't need to insert ourselves so intrusively into their culture!" Luna shouted in shock.

"Luna, let's focus on the problem at hoof. I don't want this to degenerate into another argument," Celestia replied with a sigh, as she put her hoof to her forehead.

"Fine," Luna spat. With a measured breath, she calmed herself a little and said, "Cadence should be combing their records now. There should be a few candidates who meet your standards."

"I doubt any of them could meet my standards; that's why I'm forcing them to be judged by their standards," Celestia said with a scoff.

"What is your problem?" Luna shouted angrily.

"Lun-" Celestia began, but Luna held up a hoof.

"Let me speak, big sister," Luna said sharply. She left a brief pause to make sure that Celestia would maintain the silence. When Celestia met her gaze, but kept her lips shut, Luna continued, "I know that the Protheans did as much damage to our empire as the Reapers did. I know that we were a lone island of peace awash in a sea of violence. I know that the last time we let aliens land they tried to steal our natural resources. But all of that is not reason enough to mistrust every alien. We cannot paint everybody we haven't met with the same brush. There are violent ponies, sure they're rare, but there's enough of them to warrant a guard. Other species have the same highs and lows in their societies."

"Just in very different ratios," Celestia muttered, before heaving a heavy sigh. "I suppose I should at least give them a chance." Luna nodded with unspoken thanks. "I'm heading to the command room; if we want to impress our new guests then bringing the station back up to full functionality will go a long way."

"Why not come greet them with me?"

"Luna, we have to treat them like dignitaries from a far-off land. Imagine them as dukes and duchesses from the Empire of Griffonia if you must," Celestia replied.

"So you're going to try and wow them?"

"Exactly. We need to maintain the pretence that we are more powerful than them or there's nothing to stop them from taking over the station an-"

"Celestia," Luna interjected sharply.

"I know, I know; they're not monsters. Initial appearances can give us the diplomatic edge though. If it comes to setting terms, then we'll need that edge."

Luna rolled her eyes, "Always the diplomat, eh, Tia?"

Celestia flashed her a real smile, before her horn flashed bright white and she disappeared without a trace. Luna stood with a stupid smile as she scanned the room to make sure it was clear. Once it was she threw up her forelegs in glee. "Yeah!" she shouted happily, before proceeding to leap across the room with a chorus of "Yes! Yes! Yes!"

Once her glee subsided, she let out a happy sigh and lit up her horn with a dark blue aura. With a flash of blue, the room around her changed into the hangar bay. She began to trot towards the Normandy. Her hoofsteps echoed around the colossal structure that was designed to hold the entire research fleet, emphasising the emptiness that was the hangar bay, besides the Normandy of course. The majority of the fleet was called into action, though there were still a few damaged ships laying dormant in the repair bay. Despite this space station being constructed for research, it became a military outpost in the Reaper war, and as such, housed an extensive defence system, and fully functional repair facilities.

She stopped right in front of the Normandy. The floorspace beside her suddenly sparked as an alicorn materialised beside her. The alicorn was a gentle pink and was slightly translucent. "Cadence, I hope your mission went well," Luna said slightly melodically; a smile still on her lips.

"Three crew members were identified as having no previous criminal records. Shepard was not one of them," Cadence replied. Her voice sounded more organic in this form, but was still flat and emotionless.

"How bad was it?"

"He was directly responsible for the deaths of three hundred thousand Batarians when he destroyed the Alpha relay in the Bahak system," Cadence repeated in her neutral tone.

Luna reacted as if she'd had a bucket of cold water thrown at her. Her smile vanished and all pretence of joviality was replaced by a cold sense of dread. "W-w-what?" she stammered.

"He was detained by the Systems Alliance, but it seems the crime was officially pardoned by the Citadel Council due to his Spectre status."

"What?" Luna replied again in shock.

"The humans took him back to earth, but did not prosecute him. The intergalactic council, comprised of representatives of four different races, pardoned him on account that the actions successfully delayed the Reaper invasion. His status as a member of an elite, intergalactic black operations organisation: Special Tactics and Reconnaissance, who answer directly to the Citadel Council and try their utmost to maintain galactic stability through means both legal and illegal, may have helped."

Luna fell to her flank as her mouth flopped open and close loosely in a very good impression of a goldfish. That silver-tongued draconequus who I spoke to previously was a murderer, neigh, mass murderer.

The translucent pink alicorn continued her speech unperturbed, "Commander Shepard is hailed as a hero by almost all corners of the galaxy; even the highest ranking surviving Batarian naval officer, Ka'hairal Balak, reconciled with Shepard and acknowledged that the Reapers were the bigger threat."

"So... he's still... he made a choice. A very hard choice, but a necessary one?"

"According to existing evidence gathered by Commander Shepard and his team, this option had a very high statistical probability of ensuring a lower death count in the future."

"Still... that was... some choice. Three hundred thousand now, or many more later. It's a wonder he's still functioning," Luna said sadly.

"Recent health reports show that Shepard is physically sound, although underlying mental issues are beginning to wear on him, but he is not a danger to himself or anyone else."

"No wonder," Luna said with a sad sigh. "Cadence, could you do me a favour by not telling Celestia about any of this?"

"I could omit details at your executive decision. If pushed for an answer though, I am obligated to mention that you concealed this information."

Luna stomped a hoof irritatedly. "I suppose if that's the best you can do," Luna mumbled, before heaving another sigh. "I order you to conceal all information relating to the Alpha relay incident and Shepard's deteriorating mental health," she added in an authoritative, albeit weak, tone.

"It is done," Cadence replied with a nod.

"Make sure to extend him an invitation along with the other three candidates anyway. Ask that they don't bring weapons with them, or Celestia will freak out."

"Understood, Luna," the alicorn nodded, before her image scattered into photons, and the blue lit floor dimmed and went out.

I wonder if that was the right choice. Then again, if anypony can argue with Celestia, I think it might be Shepard; Luna thought to herself as she settled down on the cold tiles and waited. I just hope that I made the right choice.

Celestia opened her eyes to see the old command room. A large table coated in glass sat in the centre of the room. All the walls were lined with consoles while row upon row of consoles lay on separate desks lined across the room. The far wall, however, was a colossal screen, and sat at the bottom of it was only a single large console with a horn slot in the middle of it. The room was just as clean now as when it was in operation which left the room smelling of absolutely nothing. The frequently recycled air was completely odourless and tasteless. To finish the dreary and plain room were the fluorescent lights of cold white that were just slightly too dim.

Celestia trotted across the tiled floor towards the large console. Ducking her head, she inserted her horn into the machine and closed her eyes. Fans inside the machines suddenly started to spin as consoles booted up. A multitude of small screens began to light up along with the massive screen on the wall. The lights also brightened a little as if in competition.

"Welcome back, Network Administrator Celestia," the machine announced in a clearly computerised voice.

"Prometheus," she replied with a curt nod.

"What can I do for you today?" the voice crackled through antique speakers built into the sides.

"We have guests. I want you to activate diplomatic protocol Four-Two-Nine."

The screen flashed and a rush of voices suddenly assaulted Celestia's ears. Looking around, she saw ponies manning a majority of the stations and talking in loud, yet somehow hushed, voices. Their garble danced a thin line between being unintelligible and seeming familiar. The ponies came from all three different species as well as vast array of colours and cutie marks, although some were clones of the others; there were only fifty templates after all.

"Constructs are now active. Would you like to activate interior defence systems as well?"

"I've already set them from the weapon control room," Celestia said with a roll of her eyes.

"Oh my, how silly of me. I forgot to check their status beforehoof."

"I would like to activate one of my subroutines, however.

"Oh, would you? Am I not good enough?"

"I want to impress them Prometheus. No offence, but you were old-tech when you were installed."

"Oh, I see how it is. Fine." The robotic tone thrummed with undertones of anger.

"It would be a crime though, to not mention how reliable you are," Celestia said in an attempt to placate the machine.

"Well, when you put it that way. Activating Celestia subroutines." The screen switched off again.

Celestia's horn pulsed not once, but twice as the energy was absorbed by the machine.

The screen flickered back on with an image of Celestia's head in the corner. "I'll set up the appropriate tutorials. You can count on me, Celestia," the machine said in a still synthesised, but definitely more feminine, voice.

Shepard stood in his immaculate officer's uniform as he waited for the other two members of his landing party. James kept all his stuff down in the cargo bay, so came straight down to get ready. Throwing on a fresh white shirt emblazoned with the Systems Alliance logo hadn't taken long, but he was off in a corner arguing with Steve Cortez, the shuttle pilot. A low hum indicated the elevator was approaching and Shepard straightened up. The door pulled open to reveal Tali in her purple enviro-suit, and Kaidan in his crewman fatigues.

"Commander, Major Kaidan Alenko and Admiral Tali’zorah reporting for duty," Kaidan said with a crisp salute.

Shepard rolled his eyes. "I've told you a million times, Kaidan: there is no need to be so formal."

"Just trying to keep a sense of normalcy. I thought it was appropriate, given the circumstances," Kaidan replied with a grin.

Shepard laughed and shook his head. "Well, if you’re both ready? As soon as James is finished with Steve I'll lower the ramp."

"Ready as I'll ever be," Kaidan replied.

"I'm just trying to contain my excitement. It's not everyday we discover a brand new race," Tali said.

"I suppose so. I'll manage most of the talking, but don't be afraid to pitch in if you want to."

"I wouldn't know what to say," Tali replied truthfully.

"Just keep it honest, but also diplomatic. Don't go raving about anything too heavy, but don't be afraid to tell truths," Shepard advised.

"Got it; I'll keep that in mind." Tali nodded, and then motioned behind Shepard with a second nod.

"Hey, Commander? We all ready to go?" James asked from behind Shepard.

"We were just waiting on you," Shepard said as he turned around to face James face-to-face.

"Well I'm all finished up," James said as he wrung his hands.

"EDI!" Shepard called upwards.

"Commander, before you go, Joker has a message for you," EDI called over the intercom.

"Patch him through, EDI, then start lowering this ramp."

"Commander?" a familiar voice called through the intercom.

"Joker, what is it?" Shepard said, feigning annoyance.

"I was wondering if you could take some photos with your omni-tool. The boys back home won't believe that we saw unicorns."

"You know boys back home?" Shepard said with a laugh.

"Well... not exactly," Joker replied nervously.

Shepard's silence spoke volumes.

"Fine. It's for my little sister. I just know she'd love to find out we met real life unicorns," Joker said exhaustedly.

"If they agree to it, Joker. I'm not endangering this relationship for a few snapshots."

"I'm not asking you to. Just, y'know, if you get the chance. A clickety-click, right?"

"Fine, Joker. Now will you please let me leave?"

"Of course, Commander. I wouldn't dream of holding you up," Joker said innocently.

"Joker," Shepard replied flatly.

"Okay, I'm gone." With a quite beep, the intercom switched off. At the same time, the floor jumped and began to slowly lower.

Briefing Time

[A/N: Once again, let's have a round of applause for proofreader Biohazard. Biohazard really knows his science, so major props to him for ironing out my biology and physics mistakes in this chapter.]

Major Kaidan Alenko steeled his nerves. Okay, Kaidan. You know how this works. You're the stoic, dependable one. Nothing fazes you as long as Shepard is here. No matter what is out there, you have to to maintain that professionalism. He let out a quiet sigh, and turned to Shepard. To the untrained observer, Shepard looked ready for anything, but Kaidan knew better. Kaidan had served with Shepard on board the original SSV Normandy SR-1 back when he was a Lieutenant, and he could tell that Shepard was troubled. Kaidan could only guess what was going through his mind, but whatever it was; it had to be important.

Vega cleared his throat loudly causing both Shepard and Kaidan to jump. "Commander? I think that, uh, blue horse is, uh, waving us over," Vega said slowly and awkwardly.

Shepard looked down to see that the ramp had fully deployed, and right at the bottom was the same winged unicorn that had ambushed him in the elevator. "So she is. Let's move out," Shepard replied with a nod as he began to stride down the ramp. Tali set off alongside the Commander. Kaidan took a deep breath and stepped after the two of them with Vega dragging his heels behind him.

"We bid you welcome to this station, Shepard." the blue alicorn shouted to the approaching crewmen.

And so the games begin. "We are grateful for your hospitality, Princess," Shepard replied with a low bow.

Luna motioned as if to say something then stopped herself. Remember what Celestia said: "Treat them like foreign dignitaries." That meant show no weaknesses. Luna toned down her ecstatic smile. "Commander Shepard." She acknowledged him with a curt nod. "And I presume that these are three of your squad mates?"

Kaidan stepped forwards and bowed too. "It is an honour to meet you, Princess. My name is Kaidan Alenko, and I am a Major with the Systems Alliance Military."

Seeing her cue, Tali stepped forwards next. "I am Admiral Tali'Zorah nar Rayya vas Normandy with the Quarian Migrant Fleet."

Vega scratched the back of his neck as he felt four pairs of eyes turn to him. "I, uh, guess I'm next," he said with a nervous laugh. "I'm Lieutenant James Vega, also with the Systems Alliance Military. Uhh, very pleased to make your acquaintance, Ma'am." Vega held out his hand.

Luna stared at it expectantly for a few seconds before realisation suddenly dawned on her, and she hesitantly lifted up a hoof. Vega then realised how ridiculous he now looked. Both participants now understood that they'd passed the point of no return, so Vega scrunched up his fist and put it forwards. Luna touched his fist tentatively with her hoof and put on a smile.

"Whoa... you feel so real," Vega whispered.

Shepard stepped forwards and put a hand on Vega's shoulder. "If you don't mind me interrupting, Princess." Vega turned around to see the burning expression in Shepard's eyes, and took a few steps back. Shepard turned to face the Princess eye-to-eye. "We have landed at the station as agreed; now if you'd provide us with the scans."

Luna tore her blue orbs away from Vega's face, and met Shepherd's azure gaze. "If you would follow me," she said with a nod of her head.

Shepard shot Vega a rather dark look which Vega replied to with a shrug. Shepard then nudged his head towards Luna, and the four of them started to follow the alicorn. Shepard and Tali picked up the pace and took positions on either side of Luna. Kaidan and Vega hung back a bit.

Kaidan gave Vega a light push. "What were you thinking, James! You could have blown the whole damn mission!" Kaidan berated the marine as quietly as he could.

Vega replied with another shrug. "I'm sorry, Stiff, I just freaked."

"You had no idea how she would of reacted! And stop calling me Stiff!"

"Look, Stiff, I've never met a Princess before! How am I supposed to know what the damn protocol is!"

"You think any of us have either? You wouldn't shake hands with the Turian Primarch!"

Vega snorted a brief laugh. "Actually, me and Primarch Victus are pretty tight. I'm telling you, that guy is the kinda leader that the galaxy needs right now."

Kaidan let out a loud sigh as he put his hand to his face. "You know what I meant, Lieutenant!"

"Yeah, yeah. I'm sorry about that, Stiff. This ain't exactly what I'm used to putting up with. I don't normally get dragged on diplomatic assignments. I mean, I've never even seen the Council first-hand. Add to that the fact that she's a freakin' horse..."

Kaidan instantly hushed Vega with a hand to his mouth. "If you don't stop badmouthing one of the leaders of an galactic power, then Shepard won't hesitate to send you stomping back to the ship. Just follow Shepard's lead, and we have the best chance of striking a deal." Kaidan removed his hand allowing Vega to take a big gulp of air. "You got me?"

Vega had to stop for a second to catch his breath. "I got you, Stiff," he eventually sputtered.

"And stop calling me Stiff!" Kaidan spun around and barked at Vega.

"Is everything okay, Major?" Shepard's voice froze the blood in Kaidan's veins.

"Everything's fine, Commander. Kaidan was just telling me about Ilos," Vega said smoothly.

"Carry on then, Major." Shepard turned back to Luna and Tali who seemed to be in deep conversation.

"This is a very interesting installation that you have here," Tali said. Her helmet made her face unreadable, but the tone in her voice seemed genuine.

"This station is one of the last relics of the Alicornian empire," Luna said with a mixed sense of pride and loss.

"What happened?"

"The Reapers happened," Luna said quietly, but also with a strong sense of finality.

"If you don't mind me asking, Princess: Why are the Alicornians not extinct? I mean, we discovered a similar set-up to this on Ilos. The Protheans had hidden a research facility, far from prying eyes, but they had all died long before we got there." Shepard rejoined the conversation at the front of the group.

"The Protheans fear of artificial intelligence is what led to their inevitable downfall. A virtual intelligence can only go so far. Millions of Alicornians may have died, but their memories and their experiences live on."

Shepard actually did a double take. "What?"

Luna's eyes went wide as she realised what she had just divulged. Oh no, Celestia is going to kill me! Quick! Change topic! Change topic! "So you believe that Cerberus is on Equus?" Luna asked quickly.

Shepard noticed a topic change when he heard one. He took a mental note of the conversation topic that had put Luna on edge, and tried to employ a switch-back. "Yes," Shepard said tersely.

"Is this organisation dangerous?" Luna stabbed out verbally again as she tried to deprive Shepard of an opening.

"Yes."

"So this organisation works for the Reapers?" Luna pushed again.

Damn. There's no way to respond to this vaguely... wait. "In a manner of speaking." Now don't press it, don't press it.

"What manner?" Luna asked innocently.

Argh! So close. Shepard held back a sigh as he replied. "They believe they can control the Reapers. However, their leader is probably one of their thralls.

"So it's already too late for them?" Luna asked.

"They incorporate Reaper technology into their bodies to make themselves stronger. They're a lost cause."

"Reaper technology? Surely that would just turn them into blind followers."

"They convert humans into a half-way state through careful implantation of cybernetics. It makes them stronger and faster than the average human, but also makes them much more pliable. They never question orders and show no mercy. However, different levels of operatives have different levels of cybernetics, but even the grunts are a force to be reckoned with."

"They sound it," Luna concluded. "But you think that we are harbouring them?" she then added in a slightly insulted manner.

"It may not be intentional, but we have short-range sensors on board our ship that are attuned to Cerberus signals. If you would allow us a brief window in which to scan your planet, then we can leave you alone."

"You must understand our hesitance to grant you assistance in this matter. Our planet is a well-guarded secret. We have maintained this veil of secrecy for the past fifty thousand years through diligence and careful management."

"So this planet is the last refuge of the Alicornians?" Tali piped up.

Luna turned away from Shepard to face the Quarian. "In a manner of speaking."

"What manner?" Vega interrupted from the back with a childish smile on his face.

"In the manner that..." Luna began before suddenly biting her tongue. "In a manner that is up to Celestia to discuss with you," she finished.

The group of five finally reached the end of the empty hangar bay, and Luna coated the door in blue light before pulling it open.

"You see that, Shepard, biotics," Kaidan whispered from right behind Shepard.

"I saw her use the same energy to make herself appear and disappear in the elevator," Shepard whispered back.

"I've never heard of biotic teleportation. The closest I've seen is the biotic charge."

Luna walked through the door first and stopped for a few seconds before shaking herself and striding forwards. Shepard followed her through and watched as two unicorns kneeled before their leader. One of the unicorns was clover green and the other a bright red. He noted that both of them had the same symbol emblazoned on their rear, a picture of some kind of sword-like weapons crossed with a unicorn's horn and that neither of them had wings. Both were as naked as their princess, but had a pair of small shoulder mounted cannons that instantly trained on the Normandy crew members as they entered.

"At ease, guardsponies!" Luna shouted in a deafeningly loud, but definitely authoritative, tone.

"Yes, Ma'am," the guards said in unison as they relaxed their legs and retracted their cannons.

Shepard gave Luna an appreciative nod of his head, and moved to follow the Princess. The white corridors from that point forward were filled with ponies rushing this way and that. A pair of guards stood at attention next to every door the group passed. Between the doors was filled with ponies of all colours and combinations. Shepard noted that some of them had horns, some had wings, and some had neither; but none of them had both wings and a horn besides Luna. On their rears were distinct markings that Shepard realised corresponded with their jobs. All the unicorn guards had the same marks as the first two guards, winged guards had a wing crossed with a sword, and normal guards had two crossed swords. A lot of the ones ferrying papers had a square sheet of A4 with a picture of their specialisation: scientists had a conical flask, technicians had a wrench, and administrators had a pencil; whether or not they had horns or wings didn't seem to matter. Having garnered as much information as he could from looking, he decided to press the Princess for some additional information.

"If you don't mind me asking, Princess. What is with the marks that you wear on your rears?" Shepard asked.

"On our flanks we all bear the mark of duty. All Alicornians discover their true calling at a young age, and are trained by the way their marks materialise. I'm sure you've noticed patterns in the ponies present," Luna replied without turning around.

"So this is decided by birth?"

"No, this is developed when an Alicornian discovers their true calling. The normally materialise at a young age of between eight and twelve, but extreme cases have seen ponies up to eighteen with blank flanks."

"Is the mark organic?"

"We are here," Luna said as she suddenly stopped. The door looked slightly larger than the others and was flanked by four guards of varying colours and features. One of them appeared to have a trim moustache which raised a few more questions in Shepard's head.

"Princess Celestia is waiting for you inside," the moustachioed guardspony said politely as he pulled open the door with a hoof.

Luna strutted in, stretching out her neck to make herself seem taller. Shepard and the other three followed her in. The room was filled with the thrum of activity as ponies ran to and fro with piles of documents. Computerised stations had unicorns plugged into them, their hooves occasionally scribbling a note down to be passed down the line.

Shepard couldn't help but notice that a particular part of the room was brighter than the rest. Sat at the head of a table that seemed to double as a computer was another alicorn, but this one was twice the height of Luna. Her long, slender neck reminded him of a swan, especially when coupled with her mascaraed purple eyes. Her mane was somehow flowing despite the lack of a breeze, and managing to stay as ordered rows of soft, pastel colours. Atop her head sat a tiara of gold with a large purple gem sat in the centre. Her face was graced with a smile that felt as warm as the sun.

"Welcome, Commander Shepard, to the command centre," Celestia announced loudly.

"Princess, I am here to..." Shepard began.

"...Ask for permission to scan my planet," Celestia finished with a knowing smirk. Shepard began to sweat under his collar. "And so you shall." Shepard sighed with relief. "However, Cadence has informed me that you are in need of something called the "Catalyst."

Shepard coudn't help but jump at that. "You have information referring to the Catalyst?" he managed to blurt before his brain caught up with his mouth.

Celestia smiled. All the cards were in her hooves now. Shepard just had to hope that he liked his hand. "Has Luna told you much about the Alicornian empire?"

"I have not, sister. I assumed that if you wanted them to know, then you would tell them."

"I wouldn't have minded if you'd told them, dear sister, but I'm glad you respected my wishes." Celestia returned with a smile to her sister. "If all of you would gather around the holographic display, then the computer can recount a brief timeline."

Vega groaned. "A history lesson! Really?" he voiced his disappointment and earned himself a swift elbow to the gut from Kaidan.

Celestia's eye's narrowed briefly at the petulant marine, but switched back again as she turned to the table. The table was simply a flat rectangular glass table, but the glass was actually lots of small projectors. They lit up as they created small motes of light that formed into alicorns. More lights moulded into tall metal spires as a small city formed beneath them. "It all started when a race of equine beings discovered an old facility orbiting their sun. The station had an ancient computer system that contained enough information for us to take to the stars. The cycle was still relatively young at the time, the only real contact we had was with the Protheans who had discovered the Citadel."

The buildings merged together to form a massive centre of learning. Alicorns stood around outside along with Protheans and a few aliens that Shepard didn't recognise. "Now, even the Protheans respected Alicornian scientists. Our studies of physics, biology and chemistry quickly brought us to the forefront of the galactic world. All kinds of private companies would approach Alicornians fresh out of school and whisk them across the galaxy.

The lights rearranged again into a large image of a male alicorn that rotated around in front of them. "Alicornians are not naturally sensitive to magic, or "biotics" as you call them. One of our greatest discoveries was how to use the then defunct horn on our heads to act as conduits for element zero." The image rotated again and zoomed in on the head that now changed to an X-ray image. "Attempted exposure to pure element zero, even in trace amounts, proved devastating to our immune systems. It was then that Faust came to the fore. She had been on several scientific teams before, but she discovered that element zero could be safely encased in a protein shell, shielding the body from the cellular degradation that pure eezo caused. She discovered that the new protein, which she dubbed EzHAT, only needed two modified genes as it could use preexisting regulators. In order to demonstrate this, she tested on herself and was the first alicorn to ever perform magic." The display was now showing complicated chemical formulae and three dimensional protein structures.

"As fascinating as this is, Princess. We don't have time to comb through your famous figures. Perhaps once the Reapers have been defeated, we can return and you can tell us all about your history," Shepard interrupted.

"I was getting to that," Celestia snapped back irately. The display changed to a large picture of a light cream alicorn with a long auburn mane. Her horn seemed especially long and sharp, and she looked to be as tall, if not taller, than Celestia. "Faust's experiments had an unintentional side effect, immortality. Constant regeneration meant that when an alicorn got the treatment, they stopped ageing. The research could have made us the strongest race in the galaxy, but then our top archaeologists uncovered a warning about the Reapers."

The screen went black and then replaced itself with the city from the start, but now everything was on fire. Reapers ships descended upon the small city of light, felling buildings as they released wave upon wave of twisted beasts that Shepard assumed must have once been sentient lifeforms. Explosions and gunfire shot from the speakers. "Fast forward fifty years and the Reapers arrived. Faust and the best of our surviving scientists were employed by the Protheans to help them destroy the Reapers. This Crucible project took the best of our best." The table image blinked again to something that Shepard instantly recognised.

"The Crucible project; these blueprints are the same as the ones we found in the Prothean archives," Shepard muttered absent-mindedly.

Celestia continued unabated. "The remaining Alicornians set about securing our future. Many enlisted to serve with the navy and were shipped out to hold back the Reaper scourge. Others scattered throughout the galaxy to try and establish a contingency plan. This station was where Luna and I headed. This station here was part of the contingency plan."

The table changed image again as it switched to an image of the station, which then panned in and switched to the command room. "One thing we underestimated was the extent of the indoctrination. The Crucible project was crushed from within. Many of the researchers were killed, but Faust managed to escape. This station was her pet project, so she headed here to take command of the contingency plan. When she arrived, she found that the station had been vented. Indoctrinated individuals had opened the station to the cold of space and killed everypony on board. Everypony but Luna and I who had been fortunate enough to have been collecting samples from the planet below."

Three figures of light flickered into being in the command centre. "Three immortals, all female, we had no choice but to try our hoof at cloning. Fast forwards a few millennia, and we finally managed to create an actual, living, breathing pony. Over this time we also set about taming the planet. The planet Equus would have been a perfect garden world, if it wasn't for its unusual rotation. We rectified that. We constructed a facility on the largest volcano on the planet and set to correcting it's spin. It took a lot of energy and time, but we eventually managed it. The best part is that we can now change the rotational speed at our leisure. We brought some samples of fauna from our homeworld out of cold storage, and slowly set up the ecosystem. We guided them into the formation of a Monarchy, where Faust took the throne. We helped as her Princesses. Due to the extensive genetic manipulation that we had gone through, we no longer had a pure Alicornian DNA strand. These ponies aren't true Alicornians as a result. Equestrians either have wings, a horn or neither, although all have ezero in their bodies."

The table image changed to a picture of a very sleek looking white ship. "After a thousand years of peace, Faust realised that we weren't needed any more, and set off to see if any other station had had success. She took the ship that brought her here, the large Alicornian frigate shown here, and left us in charge of the planet. This was three thousand years ago, and we haven't seen her since."

Shepard waited a few seconds to see if Celestia would continue. "So, you know of the Catalyst?"

"Not personally, no. But Faust worked on the original Crucible project. If anypony will know what the Catalyst is, it's her." Celestia replied.

Shepard puzzled over this for a few seconds, but then all the pieces fell into place. "You want us to find this Faust."

"Exactly. If you can bring her back here, then Equestria will regain the leader it richly deserves, and she can tell you where the catalyst is."

"Hold on, Commander. She just said three thousand years! There's every chance that she's dead by now!" Vega shouted angrily.

"She is not dead!" Celestia screamed angrily.

"She was sending us yearly updates until five years ago," Luna piped up, seeing her sister seething with anger. "Her last report pegged her as being in the Attican Traverse. We have all the available information and will send it to your AI. Her ship was created with the same technology as the defence network for this station. You should detect it emanating the same signal as the planet is."

"This war is approaching crunch time. I'm sure you can recognise how important time is. The Attican Traverse is a huge area, and its not even properly defined. I'm not sure we'll be able to find her. We're just one ship."

"You will not be going alone," Celestia spoke up again.

Shepard shook his head, "You still don't trust us, do you?"

"I have six ponies that are prime examples of what Equestria has to offer. They should be a great asset to you in this brief mission. It will also allow you to ascertain how effective they are as a military unit. If you do this task for us, then we will help against the Reapers with every resource we have."

"Sister, you can't be serious. Equestria isn't ready for war!"

"We can't let six members of a pre-space flight species join on an intergalactic journey," Shepard argued.

"Shepard, a race of biotics would be a massive boon to the war effort, even in support roles," Kaidan weighed in.

"Please, Shepard. My ponies will ascertain that you tried your best. Even if you fail, so long as the ponies can confirm you tried everything in your power, we will still help with the war effort. We still have some military equipment, but not much." Celestia begged.

"We secured a large number of Volus fabrication units, Shepard. As long as we have one working model, I'm sure we can replicate it," Tali added.

What the hell. Even if I fail, I'll have gained a new fleet. "I accept. Send all the relevant files to EDI. We're heading back to the ship."

"Cadence will fetch you when I've prepared the six specialists," Celestia said with a wave of her hoof.

"Thank you, Shepard," Luna said softly as the four crew members headed back to the Normandy.