Chapter 177

—Ascendency (Halo Galaxy)—

On Installation 00, which is mainly called by its other name 'The Ark', the Imperial Senate was convening to talk about their current victory in the other galaxy and what their future plans would be.

Seated in the center was Catherine with Miranda, and Imperial Admiral Xytan seated next to her. Around them were the hundreds of senators which represented every planet from the Halo Galaxy and a few dozen from the Mass effect Galaxy.

The first to speak was Senator Hayden, a dignified representative who currently was on his last term as Senator but was the oldest out of everybody.

"With this momentous victory over the Reaper forces, we have safely protected the lives of Billions and ensured that they will get to choose their own path going forward." Senator Hayden began. "The Galactic Council which now strives to replace the old Citadel Council will strive to represent every race going forward and ensure that no singular entity controls the galactic narrative. But let us not forget the reason we all gather here today in peace and unity, the efforts of our Emperor, Axel."

A unified murmur of agreement swept through the Senate. "And even now, as we speak, we have thousands of people working on a way to bring him back from where he is."

As the Senator finished speaking, a hush fell over the crowd. The unspoken question echoed in everyone's minds, how and when would they bring their Emperor back?

After a brief moment of silence, Admiral Xytan rose from his seat, his regal bearing capturing the attention of all assembled. "Indeed, our gratitude towards Emperor Axel is boundless. He has unified our galaxy and even now another. The Ascendency will not rest until he is safely returned to us."

Eyes bright with conviction, Xytan continued. "We have begun to establish a task force specifically for this mission. Our top scientists and strategists have been assembled for this purpose. We are united in purpose, and it is fitting that we work together to bring our leader home." The Senate erupted into applause and affirmations of support.

After a few more hours of discussions, proposals, and future plans, Catherine had walked back to Axel's office which had become her office temporarily.

Sitting down at her desk, a long sigh escaped her mouth as she rubbed her temple. There was a reason why she tried to avoid politics as it always involved long meetings with people yapping about some random nonsense that sometimes didn't intrigue her.

Sure, there were some interesting topics discussed, but the Ascendency had fulfilled everybody's needs from A-Z with the only problems being people who are bored with their lives and have nothing to do but complain all day, every day. Because of this there weren't many things to do besides keep moving forward while maintaining a steady pace.

As she began to rest her head on the desk, Cortana popped up next to her interrupting her rest. "Ma'am," she called out causing Catherine to turn her head. "The Xalanyn newly appointed leader, Harbinger, is about to arrive."

Hearing this, Catherine picked her head up and rested it on her hand, as she leaned back in her chair. A few minutes later, the door to her office had opened, revealing Harbinger who was escorted by two Honor Guard. She motioned for Harbinger to come in, while waving the Honor Guard off.

"It's nice to see you again Ms. Halsey" said Harbinger as she walked in, bowing her head a little.

"Nice to see you again as well Harbinger, how is your species doing?" Catherine asked gesturing towards the chair across from her.

"Well," Harbinger began, taking the seat, "Thanks to the Emperor, we have begun to rebuild our society and re-populate our species. At first, I was a little skeptical because of our experience with the Forerunners, but the emperor has delivered on his promises and my people are beginning to trust the Ascendency, though there is still a long way to go." explained Harbinger.

"I'm glad to hear that Harbinger," Catherine responded, her eyes softening. "He has made it his mission to bring unity and protection to all in the Ascendency, regardless of past alliances or conflicts."

"Yes, I have seen his history and things he has done. He is a figure of true dedication and inspiration," Harbinger admitted, leaning back in her chair. "His absence has been felt by everyone, but most especially my people, who were just beginning to know him."

"Speaking of which, that is the reason why I came here today." said Harbinger causing Catherine to listen closely to her next words.

"You know the Xalanyn species is known for its attunement to elements of Living Time itself and reality. Throughout our long existence, we have been able to perceive things beyond the physical realm." Harbinger continued.

Catherine's eyebrows arched as she listened. "Do you mean to say…?"

"Yes," Harbinger cut in, "We may have a way to discover where he was transported by the extradimensional forces." The room fell into silence once again, the gravity of Harbinger's words was immense.

Catherine blinked, leaning forward as she processed this new information. "That... is beyond what we could have hoped for," she admitted.

"How will you achieve this, if you don't mind me asking"

"Because he has helped my species and provided us with what we need to rebuild, I will share with you how we will achieve this." began Harbinger.

"We will use a process called 'Soul Gazing'. It's an ancient Xalanyn technique that allows us to tap into the Living Time and see events that have happened, are happening, or very rarely events that will happen. We will use the last battle of war to trace his spiritual resonance from the time the wormhole opened, to the time of his disappearance, thus allowing us to get a location of the galaxy he is in. Though it will take a few months."

"That's... impressive," Catherine said, half in disbelief. "Are there any potential risks?"

"Plenty," Harbinger admitted. "The process can take a heavy toll on the one performing it. Missteps might lead to disastrous consequences like loss of sanity or even death. Also, seeing through time and space is not always clear or straightforward. What we see could be riddled with riddles or symbols that need decoding."

"Is this something you're willing to risk?" Catherine questioned.

"Yes, a few of my people have already come forward as volunteers and are willing to risk their lives. Though I don't think there will be dire consequences considering the strength and resolve of those who have come forth."

"Thank your people not just on the behalf of the Ascendency, but me as well." Harbinger nodded, "I will transmit your thanks."

"Then it's settled." Catherine said with a determined nod. "We will provide your people with any support they need. And thank you, Harbinger"

Catherine watched as Harbinger exited the room, escorted once again by the Honor Guard. She couldn't contain her feelings as she didn't know how long it would have taken them to come up with a way to find Axel. But now it was only months away.