The Threat That Looms Ahead: Chapter 27: For Urdnot, for Krogan

Just the tomkah's halt was enough to jolt Shepard out of his sleep. He looked around as Krogans gladly got on their feet and marched out of the vehicle, as the hydraulics were still lifting the door open. The aliens mumbled things between them, mostly thankful that the long ride was over, one by one, jumping off and landing with loud thuds on the ground shortly below. The captain looked up and saw a bespectacled human woman, a cannibalized coat, that served more like a vest in its current state, draped over her shoulders lazily. She motioned him up, in a rather indifferent manner, but he obliged her none the less. Secretly, internally, he lamented the poor treatment of the once elaborate coat.

He followed suit, behind everyone else. It had been a while since he had visited Urdnot and even then, it wasn't much, but he had heard about the many new buildings being erected there and how it was finally starting to resemble a city once more, instead of a pile of old rubble stacked on each other. He was especially curious to see the clanhold, which Wrex seemed incapable to shut up about. Of course, he knew that the Turians had bombed the planet. He knew that many of the cities and the structures all around Tuchanka would probably be in even worse shape than before, but nothing like this. It was like the entire city had been reduced to one huge crater.

Shepard scoured through the crowd, looking for a single Krogan. It wasn't that hard. Even between this mob of angry, nostril flaring, cursing Krogan, Wrex stood apart most prominently. The captain approached him, steadily, but a bit weary. The warlord hastily turned his head towards the human's direction, before snapping it back, just as quickly, his breathing heavy, his nostrils flaring twice the size of any other assembled Krogan. The human noticed how Wrex had his arms extended and his fists clenched, so he still kept a safe distance from him. He decided to simply stand there, while the alien vented. We'll get him, he said, as if reminding him that.

Footsteps came behind him, ones that he remembered. For what to him was no more than a year ago, those footsteps meant something close, intimate. He lifted his hand to block Liara's way. She gave him a worried, questioning look, which the spectre felt, but merely shook his head negatively, as an answer. The Asari turned her attention back to the Krogan. This is my fault, Wrex said, flushing with anger. I should have taken the fight to them. I should have, he trailed off with a loud grumble.

We'll get him, the human repeated, reassuringly. The hulking warrior seemed to breathe easier and slower at the sound of his voice. More in control of himself now, he turned to him and nodded. Shepard twitched, as something seemed to catch his attention. His eyes squinted as he shifted his focus. Does anyone else hear that?

I don't hear anything, Liara replied after a moment, her face just as contorted.

I keep hearing this hiss, he started, as he scoured around with his eyes, before spotting his target. A lone missile, aimed straight at them. Get down, he cried, his arms instinctively wrapping themselves around Liara, as a barrier enveloped them both. He twisted around at lightning speed, effectively shielding the Asari with his body. The projectile wheezed past him, however, hitting the tomkah behind them. The vehicle exploded and flipped backwards, before crashing into a rock. Shepard looked up and saw mayhem. Krogan ran around frantic, shots were being fired from every direction, but most importantly, there was no sign of her. He looked down at the alien in his arms. Are you okay? he asked, to which she just nodded. Good, cause we gotta, he stopped, chancing another glance as he rose to his feet, bringing up the alien along with him. Jack, he cried, but no reply came. We gotta get to someplace safe, he continued, as he gave a few condescending nods to no one in particular. Come on, this way, he ordered and led her down a crumbled walkway towards a row of ruins.

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The shuttle had seen the Turian ships coming, but chose to keep radio silence. It had circled around the moon and kept its distance from the fleet. For now, the Normandy would have to handle itself, its occupants had decided. Zaeed was busy as ever. Jessie was being a bitch again. Something seemed to have jammed in the chamber and the rounds weren't going through. The fact that the damn Turian was being chatty, didn't help much. At least the brunette at the helm was keeping things to herself. They still had a way to go before they reached Tuchanka. Hopefully, he'd have Jessie ready in time.

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Liara rested her back against the wall, then shortly after leaned forward, hands rested on her legs, panting ans wheezing from the long run. Shepard crumpled on the ground not too far from her. The armor felt heavy on his chest, his was sweating and when he tried to breath, it hurt his ribs. He just wanted to take it off him, but he knew he shouldn't. Instead, he took his time trying to slow down his heartbeat, instead of contemplating things that weren't prudent. He composed himself, getting up and standing next to Liara.

She fiddled with her omni-tool for a moment. I can't get a line to Cortez. Communications are jammed. She raised her head and looked at the human. What was that back there? she wondered. Kabalim already leveled Urdnot, why would he need to send his troops down?

This seemed to come to Shepard as more of a confirmation, rather than a speculation. He nodded, as if agreeing with someone. He knows, he stated plainly.

How? Liara questioned him.

Wrex mobilizing, he said panting, still catching his breath. He wouldn't do it for just anyone. Kabalim knows we're here. So he leveled the city to leave nowhere for us to run or hide, then sent his troops to lay in wait. He nodded again. It was a good move, he conceded.

I fail to see how this helps our case, the Asari relayed, scratching her forehead.

It doesn't, the human agreed. But I'm acknowledging the opposition. I'm not going to underestimate him. Having caught his breath he looked around. The area seemed to be a collapsed hallway. They were surrounded by walls and debris, a long fissure dictating the way ahead. We should go, he suggested.

Liara and Shepard started their way across. It took a make it halfway into the fissure, which Shepard roughly estimated it to be about at a stadium's length. It was at that point that Shepard noticed movement on the other side. He stopped in his tracks and Liara did the same. She tried to look for something, but wasn't able to make anything out. In spite of her years of experience, she didn't manage to spot anything. What is it? she asked in a hushed voice.

Turians, he replied, in a similarly low voice, his face contorted. In the commotion of the first attack, Shepard had not picked up any weapons. More concentrated to get out of the way of the barrage of fire headed towards him and his crew. More interested in keeping them alive, rather than returning fire. He scoured the immediate area, through the darkness, for some cover. There, he pointed towards a part of the ceiling that had collapsed. It would make for some decent cover that they would be able to hide behind. The two of them walked hastily and as silently as they could while crouched down.

How many? Liara asked once the two of them had been careful seated behind the collapsed concrete.

Shepard raised his head, tilted sideways and looked past his cover, then lowered it back down. Four on the left, three on the right. They're very careful in their advance. He turned to face the Asari. They'll spot us.

We've got no weapons, she noted.

Yeah, he conceded. But we're still biotics.

How do you want to do this? she asked and perhaps for the first time when in the alien's company, Shepard found his mind searching for Jack. She was a powerhouse in the battlefield. She'd have her plan of assault, clear a path for him and draw in the enemy fire, which she usually handled with little effort, most rounds just bouncing of her incredibly powerful barriers. He'd just follow behind her, taking pointers at how to be a proper biotic death machine. Then, he realized, some of those pointers had actually rubbed off on him.

Use lift on the four guys on the left. I'll charge the three on the right. They're grouped up real good, so I'll be able to melee them down. While you have the Turians on the air, try to slam them onto something, or just use singularity, up to you, he instructed, to which the Asari replied with a nod.

She circled around her cover first, throwing a lift, that raised the quartet of soldiers up in the air. As soon as she had been spotted, the other three Turians, feet still on the ground, turned around to fire at her, only to see a large blue blur smack into one of them, sending him flying a few dozen feet, effectively putting him out of the fight. As the other two, still confused over the whole predicament, turned around to face him, he slapped one of the guns out of its wielder's hands, then kicked the armed Turian on his knee. There was a loud cracking noise and the shock of the pain made the alien fall to the ground, unconscious. The weaponless soldier tried to retaliate, by slamming a fist to the human's side, only to bounce off harmlessly off the spectre's barrier. A powerful fist landed on the alien's face, knocking him out. As the effects of her lift powered down, Liara slammed the four Turians on the ground, one after the other, opting for the less lethal option available.

Shepard picked up two of the weapons lying on the ground. Holstered one behind his back and gave the second one to Liara. They're gonna be looking for these guys to report in, pretty soon. This place will get crowded and fast.

We should pick up the pace, she realized.

You're right on that, the man agreed, handing her a rifle. Let's go, he said, motioning her with a shake of his head.

The two rushed to the other end of the fissure. The tunnel itself had assumed an upward angle, making the run more difficult, effectively turning the last few feet of their ascend to a crawl. Once outside, they could see they were on an elevated bridge that gave a clear view to the ground below. In spite of the long distance, he could very easily spot a group of Krogan running and at the point, dashing forward like a spearhead, was a much smaller figure, more human-like than the rest. Jack, he realized. Jack, he shouted while he run, as loud as his lungs could carry him. He felt a tap to his arm and turned to glance at the Asari next to him. She shook her head in a negative fashion, pointing that it was probably not the best idea to give away their position on a field of battle. The captain conceded the point, with a nod of his head. We need to find a way to get down there.

This walkway doesn't seem to go much further, Liara noticed. It looks like a section of it has collapsed. Perhaps we could climb down from there?

Worth a shot. Lead on, the marine prompted her. The duo made their way to the edge of the elevated road, a large section of it hanging from bent rods all the way to the ground. The asphalt and concrete had been chipped away at some parts, providing for some pretty good holds for anyone's hands and feet, if they looked to climb down. Shepard could have used his biotics to slowly drift down, but the bridge was too high. He'd have to climb his way down. I'll go first. Stay up here, in case we get company coming. I'll need you to cover my descent, he ordered and the Asari complied, placing herself at the edge in a crouched position, her rifle primed and ready. Shepard placed a careful foot at one of the bent rods and locked his boot between steel and concrete. He tested it first, then, once he was confident enough, put his full weight on it and lowered his himself down. It was all going smoothly and he had made it half way down, when something caught the Shadow Broker's attention.

Incoming, she shouted, spotting a group of three Turians. She started to shoot, but the distance was too great and she didn't pack enough firepower by herself to suppress them. Once the Turians spotted them, they crouched behind some cover and tried shooting at Shepard. The human, in spite of his exposed position, managed to lodge himself on a little crevice, his one arm gripping a steel rod for balance while the other held his rifle. He wasn't going to aim all that well placed like that, but at least he was putting up a fight. The asari above him managed to hit one of the Turians straight center on his helmet. While it didn't penetrate it, it made a large crack and the alien himself toppled sideways. The conveniently placed cover, seemed awfully familiar in shape and texture to Shepard. He wondered for a moment where he had seen it before, until he realized he was standing on it. Well, sort of standing on it. They was large parts of concrete and asphalt that had fallen from the bridge above. The spectre gambled a look at the other side of the bridge and there were indeed large blocks hanging from the opposite edge as well. He set a barrage of fire with his weapon, aiming to weaken the structural integrity of said blocks, hoping to bring them down on his enemies below. Sure enough, after exhausting half his thermal clip, the first chips began to crack, small pieces of rock falling between the two Turians left standing. They looked up, just in time to see a large rock rushing down to meet them. They managed to dodge in time, only to be struck unconscious by the debris sent flying from the crushing rock. They'd wake up, hours later, with really bad headaches.

Ha, exclaimed triumphantly the specter from his position. Then he felt himself falling forward a few inches. He looked behind him, at the steel rod he had been holding on to for so long. It was rusted and worn and it was starting to give in to his pressure. Even the rock beneath his feet was giving way. No, no, no, no, he cried, panicked, frantically reaching for a hold that kept crumbling, pieces of concrete, rusted steel and asphalt hitting him in the face. Shit, he said as his foothold broke, sending him toppling down, smacking against the ruined road time and time again. He tried to find another hold with his hands, to no avail; the speed at which he was falling was pulling along the ruined bridge with him. Seeing the ground rushing up to meet him, the spectre enveloped himself in a blue barrier, before slamming against it on his back. He groaned, his face contorted and his eyes were shut tight. He tried to push the pain back and opened one eye, only to see a large piece of the bridge coming down straight at him. He instinctively rolled out of its place and saw it crash right next to him. He sighed, relieved, only to see the the large block fall down sideways, on top of him. Fuck, was the last thing he said, as the block slammed on his chest.

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Jack and Bakara slammed against the road block. In spite of its substantial weight, the concrete block shook and moved at the weight of the two. They tried to catch their breath, amidst the mayhem of crossing fire and explosions. The Krogan looked at the human with a look of terror and shock.

You're insane, she cried over the sound of gunshots coming from all directions.

We're not done yet, the tattooed woman replied with a smile, as if the confirmation of her insanity was pleasing to her. We've still got about a hundred of them to clear out and I don't see them dying from a heart attack any time soon, she reminded her and brought her knees up, ready to spring over their cover. Ready? she asked, more in a philosophical way, as the alien's protests didn't seem to register. On three, she stated, placing a blue glowing hand on Bakara's shoulder. One, two, she said and jumped over the cover, the Krogan lifted along by her tightly gripping hand. Three!

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Shepard, cried the alien at the top of the bridge. She slung her rifle over her back and started sliding down on the vertical bridge, her mass effect field keeping her firmly attached to it. Just as she was reaching the edge, she jumped off and landed safely, covered by a barrier. It was a risky maneuver, that caused large pieces of the ruin above to come down with her, but she didn't have time to think about it. Shepard, she cried again, reaching the block. She could hear him groan and cough, his head barely sticking out. The large piece of debris had broken in several places, mainly the ones that had come into contact with him. He must have had his barrier up, Liara realized. She used her biotics to lift the rock off of him and threw it away, crashing on the ground into tiny pieces. Kneeling beside him, she tried to lift him up. Are you alright?

The marine looked at her with half one eye, still gritting in pain and favoring one side over the other as he stood up. No, he whined. I just fell from what must have been five hundred feet. That is while I smacked myself on the the concrete road consecutively for about a minute or two, only to have a boulder topple on top of me. He heaved a sigh of relief as he straightened himself out. But at least it's over now, he noted. The pain didn't last much longer. His cybernetics kicking into work, whatever injuries he had sustained quickly healed themselves. He looked at the three knocked out Turians ahead. Those must have been part of that company I was expecting to see earlier, he noted, then turned to the Asari next to him. I appreciate you didn't outright kill them.

Liara blinked a couple of times at his comment. Why is that? she wondered.

I fought side by side with many of them during the Reaper war. What they're doing now ... they don't understand why they're doing this. They're not following orders, they're being controlled. I'd like to spare as many as we can, the human explained.

Understood, the Shadow Broker replied and followed up with a condescending nod.

We should get moving. I saw Jack from above the bridge a while ago. She should still be somewhere in this area, the captain said and started off. Reluctantly, the Asari followed behind him. He sensed that there was something she wanted to tell him, but he also noticed how she didn't actually word her concerns. He decided that perhaps it was best, if he didn't push her yet. After all, the two of them had been an item for a while and he knew better when to press Liara and when to let her speak her mind when she was ready to.

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The lone duo made their way reluctantly towards the maw of a dark tunnel. They shifted from cover to cover. God only knew what was hiding beyond that darkness and they both decided it would be more prudent if they didn't push their luck. It had become rather apparent to both of them, however, that something large was coming from the other side. Shepard's mind instantly went for the worst possible scenario; a thresher maw. It wouldn't be the first time he'd meet one on the surface of Tuchanka, not even the first time to stumble upon one on a densely populated area. Even if it had been bombed from orbit. However, the closer he got to the entrance, the clearer he could see the movement inside. This was no giant slithering worm, but a number of different figures.

There's people in there, he informed Liara.

Turians? the Asari asked.

I don't know, but I don't think so, he replied, crouched as he was behind his cover. Guess only one way to find out, he said and rolled around, standing tall and walking towards the large opening.

Shepard, wait, Liara said, trying to stop him but it was too late.

All was quiet for a while, as the captain closed in on the tunnel. He heard something coming from inside it, something unintelligible, drowned by the tunnel's cacophonous echo. He primed his weapon, although he wasn't sure what good that would do to him, all by himself out there, with cover forgotten behind, about twenty or so feet. The first thing he saw protrude from the darkness, was a booted foot, the leg draped in camo pants with a large opening to the side. What skin could be seen, was mostly covered in ink, that seemed to coil itself upward towards the figure's midriff and above. A tattered dark vest hang on her shoulders and on the ridge of her nose, rested a visor, wide and sleek, the light reflecting painfully off it. It surprised Shepard how she could even see with that thing in the tunnel's darkness, but perhaps it served a different purpose as well. In spite of hating them each and every time he saw them, he couldn't help a sigh of relief this time. The woman continued her advance, until she stood directly in front of him.

Jack, he said with a smile.

It's alright, everybody, you can come out now, the woman said to whoever still waited inside the tunnel. First came Bakara, followed by a few dozen Krogan, all flocked behind them, rallied to her furious battle prowess. The spectre couldn't help himself smiling playfully to his mate at her accomplishment. Guess what, boyscout, she teased him with a smile of her own.

What? he asked with a face contorted as he struggled to read her expression.

Someone's getting laid, after this, she remarked playfully, as her hand rested over the spectre's crotch, to which he promptly jumped and took a few steps back.

We should get these people to safety, he said, starting with his voice raised a few octaves. We may not be in trouble now, but the Turians won't relent easily, he added, his voice gradually regaining some of its masculine tone.

I told you there was no reason to worry, whelp, a deep voice came from behind them. Just because you're a father now, doesn't mean everyone forgot how to fight.

Wrex, the marine exclaimed at the sight of the two Krogans approaching from behind them. You're looking a lot more relaxed.

The warlord grinned wide, showing a row of serrated teeth. Shooting Turians does wonders for my anger management problems, he explained with a toothy smile.

Good thing I didn't bring Garrus along, the human noted, raising an eyebrow, before turning to the second Krogan. How are the little ones, Grunt?

They're tucked away safely. Some of the women stayed behind to guard them, along with some other younglings. Genophage cured or not, the cubs are sacred to them. No Turian talon will ever land on them, the young warrior proclaimed.

I think it'd be best, if we worried about ourselves, Liara interjected. Look, she said, pointing over the ridge of the tunnel.

Climbed over, atop a wide vantage point, a group of Turians had settled in, weapons primed and ready, aimed at the crowd below. Shepard, Jack and Liara stepped forth, weapons drawn and barriers at the ready, prepared to receive and to dish out as much punishment as they could. A single round whistled through the air, going through a Turian's head. The shot had seemed to come from above, but the aliens were in the highest spot of the immediate area. After a small commotion over their fallen comrade, they looked up to see a shuttle slowly descending. A turian hang from its open door, his sniper rifle's nuzzle exuding smoke while a brunette human female stepped to the edge, the M100 grenade launcher clutched tightly in her arms. She let loose the first volley and the Turians scurried for cover, before even getting the chance to return fire, holing up to wherever it was they came from. The field below now secure, the shuttle landed soundly on the ground below. The human woman, hands still clenching the weapon, stepped off the shuttle first.

I love the way you handle big guns, the captain commented with a smirk, to which she replied by chuckling and shaking her head. Behind him, Jack grimaced in disdain.

Garrus was the second one to make it off the the ship. The first impression wasn't one of heartwarming welcome. In fact, the menacing glares of somewhere around twenty Krogans alluded to quite the opposite. In spite of the fact of having fought and bled with three of them. I'm Garrus, he said in an effort to alleviate the dread. I shot the bad guy. It's what I do. I shoot bad guys, but you don't need to worry, you guys are good. Mostly, he added as a final after thought.

Goddamn Turians, grumbled the elderly human that was the last one to get off the ship. You shoot one goddamn grenade at them and they run around like Vorcha, trying to find their fucking hidey holes. Fucking insulting, he spat. The gathered aliens seemed to take an immediate liking to him, in contrast to Vakarian.

Wrex look around, somewhat surprised. Isn't this turning out to be quite the reunion. But I've still got my city swarming with Turians and an entire fleet is threatening to blow us to bits from orbit.

What would you have us do, big guy? Garrus asked.

First, I want them out of my city, the warlord grumbled. And we've got a lot of ground to cover.

We have a pretty impressive force assembled, Liara noted. We could mount a counter offensive. The field may be large, but we would make swift and effective progress.

And we'd also be begging for an orbital strike, Grunt interjected. We should divide our force, create two main fronts, while a third squad works as liaison between the two, offering back up, infiltrating behind enemy lines and creating confusion for the Turians.

Sounds like a plan, Shepard nodded in agreement. I offer to lead the infiltration team. Just me, Jack and Garrus.

I thought we would stick together, Liara whined.

We could, but I'd rather spread our biotics across the three groups and Jack isn't good with following other people's orders, the captain countermanded.

I call it not taking shit from anyone, Jack objected, folding her arms across her chest.

Shepard didn't reply, but opted to roll his eyes instead. As for Garrus, well, I'd take Zaeed, but I doubt Garrus would last long in a group of enraged Krogan.

I figure I'd take a few down first, but that would be just reinforcing their point, he conceded, rubbing his shoulder and flexing his joints.

I'm taking Bakara and Liara along, Wrex continued.

You're hoarding the aliens as well now, Wrex? Bakara reprimanded.

It's for old times sake, Liara explained. We used to make a good team back in the day.

So that leaves me with Miranda and Zaeed, Grunt's nostrils flared. It'll be fun to have you follow my orders for once, he chortled.

If we're leading Krogan, I'd rather leave the leadership to someone better suited to bear the brunt of the task, the agent stepped back.

Leave the brunt to Grunt, the venerable human mercenary joked. Next thing you know they make T-shirts out of it and sell them to fund the war effort.

We're wasting time, Wrex intervened, looking around anxiously. Better get this started soon, or our position will be overrun. We'll set a rendezvous point. Right there, he pointed at a large opening, cleared of buildings and debris, a crater somewhere in the middle of Urdnot. Once we've cleared the area, or got our asses handed to us, we regroup over there.

Since everyone has their assignment, Shepard cut in, his right hand moving in circles, his index finger extended, let's roll out, he suggested and the gathered group did just that.

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The comm hissed with static, breaking his concentration, pulling him away from the orb. He looked up at the speaker, somewhat annoyed, yet a little expectant. No voice came for a while, though.

Captain? A voice eventually asked.

Lieutenant? the Turian asked back.

We're having reports of Captain Shepard being sighted in Urdnot. Our troops have been ineffective in stopping him this far, the voice relayed.

I told you I want him dead, leiutenant. Do what you have to do, then report back to me once you've done it, the Cabalim ordered.

The turian on the other side of the comm shook with sweat at the meaning hidden behind those words. What would you have us do? he stuttered.

The captain sighed and pulled back from the orb he was leaning on. Have our men paint the target, then annihilate him with an orbital strike.

Should I order them to evacuate, once Shepard has been targeted? he asked, hopefully.

Retreat could very well tip him off. So no. They would die either way. At least that way they can someone important along with them. The captain's voice was cold, uncaring.

The lieutenant's fists clenched. He hadn't flinched before. When the captain asked him to kill, he killed, didn't matter who it was, as long as it was on the opposing side. But these men were now his brothers, dedicated to the cause as much as he was. His conscience was hard to argue with. As you order, Cabalim, he said and closed the comm. He looked at the Turian next to him. Order the men to paint the target. Then tell them to get the hell out of there.

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Shepard looked at the incoming rocket. It hadn't been aimed at him, which was weird. He had been sitting behind cover, of course, but he'd thought that his enemies would have at least the decency to shoot straight at him. There was something particularly odd about the rocket's trajectory. While it seemed to head towards his general direction, it was aimed a bit to the side and way too high. It looked as if it was almost intentional. He looked up to a hole on the ceiling, right as the projectile came into impact with it, sending a large part of it, falling right at him. Smart, he thought to himself as the concrete ceiling started to cave in on him. He wondered if his head or body would withstand the impact, but realized chances were slim. He would probably be crushed under the rubble. Perhaps a barrier would have helped, but he wasn't sure he could bring it up on time. Then there was this blue blur that seemed to smack him, right on the chest, knocking him down. He flinched at the pain of the impact, as well as having his head slammed on the floor. Then, he tried to focus on the blue blur, that slowly grew into some well defined, attractive features. The woman winced as the debris fell on her back, cracked and fell harmlessly to each of her sides. The marine's face eased into a smile.

Nice save, missus Shepard, he joked.

The biotic's blue blaze fizzled at the remark, her skin tone turning a whiter shade of pale. Missus Shepard? she demanded, in spite of her shock.

Maybe we should discuss this some other time? the captain offered apologetically.

I hate to break up the little love quarrel, Garrus interjected, crouched behind his cover, but there's a rocket with my face on it and it's headed straight my way.

Jack threw a shockwave at the incoming rocket, which seemed to turn it the other way, instead of making it explode. The projectile followed a weird path and crashed into one of the crates that the Turians had cowered behind. Soon after the explosion, the enemy troops simply withdrew out of the room. Having helped her mate up, the tattooed woman walked beside her alien comrade. Standing up, he wiped the sweat from his nervous brow. A rocket with your face on it? Seriously? the human woman spat.

I can't help it. I've developed severe rocketophobia after that one time on Omega, Vakarian objected.

Garrus, there's no such thing as rocketophobia, Shepard argued, pinching the ridge of his nose.

That's because nobody who's ever been hit by one, survived to develop it, the marksman explained.

The spectre sighed and looked around. Well, at lest we cleared the room of those pesky Turians. No offense, he added as a final remark.

None taken, the alien dismissed.

The captain felt a nudge on his arm, his omni-tool glowing a bright orange colour. Communications are back up, he said with a contorted face. Someone must have disabled whatever was jamming their frequencies. Probably just one of the Krogan squads, he thought to himself. He brought up his arm and fiddled with the controls. Steeeeeeve, he cried.

Yes? Captain? came a disturbed voice after a while.

Are you all right? Shepard asked, suddenly very self-conscious after his previous outburst.

I am safely hovering above Urdnot, the pilot relayed. There's a lot going on down there, but nobody seems to notice a stray shuttle, flying on its own.

Oh, exclaimed the spectre. Alright, listen, we've set up a rendezvous point a few clicks from here. Sending you the coordinates for extraction.

Aye aye, sir, Cortez confirmed.
The three of them took the same way out of the room as the Turians did before them. The large room they were before, gave way to a small, cramped hallway. Shepard had taken point, while Garrus covered the rear, with Jack in the middle. The hallway was long and throughout the route, the short stature biotic had her gaze focused on the man leading her on. So fierce it was that the captain could feel it burning through the back of his neck.

You're not usually one for holding your thoughts to yourself, Jack. So why not out with it? the marine spurred her.

I didn't like that comment back there, she said unceremoniously, after a short silence.

You mean the missus Shepard one? the man asked, a sudden rush of blood to his head. Whether it was embarrassment, regret or simply adrenaline kicking in from the expected backlash, he wasn't sure, but he half flinched, expecting a slap to the back of his head, either way.

What? That's, no, Zero flushed awkwardly. I'm gonna pretend I didn't even hear you say that one. I'm talking about what you told the cheerleader.

I'm just gonna scout ahead, here, Garrus jumped in, trying to squeeze through the other two, without bumping into either one of them. Unfortunately for him, the humans had spread the width of the hall, with Jack only half a step behind Shepard, making it increasingly difficult for him to make it through them. If you could just, he tried to cut in. No? I guess I'll just be here in the back.

She did save our lives, Jack. Was I not supposed to thank her? the spectre reprimanded her.

"I love the way you handle big guns", isn't how I spell thanks, asshole, the tattooed woman spat.

Just pretend I'm not even here, alright? the alien behind them interrupted the two.

Neither does "I want to bury my head in your ass" the spectre retorted.

Say what now? Vakarian jumped in surprise.

That's a fucking lie, Shepard. I never said that, the biotic objected.

The man stopped, turned to his side and smiled wryly at her. Just not in those exact words

Actually, no, don't pretend I'm not here, the marksman said, rubbing the back of his head. You guys might blast me with a biotic explosion. He knocked with his hand on the ceiling. It's pretty thick, but I bet you guys could toss me a good way through it.

Fuck you, Jack resigned, turning her head around, arms folded across her chest. You know, I bet this is all just a big plan to get the both of us in the sack with you.

And this is the most ludicrous accusation you've made against me, yet, Shepard replied. Unless it's working, he added after a while, as an after though.

I'll, she started, seemingly convicted, only to pause right after, tell you later, she mumbled off eventually and in a hushed tone.

The group eventually made it to the rendezvous point. A large number of Krogan, a few Tomkahs and a shuttle were already waiting there. It seemed that their advance had been less eventful then they had initially expected. An Asari popped out from the group to welcome the captain.

Shepard, she exclaimed, once close to him. She picked his hand up in hers. You're unhurt, she said with a hint of relief, followed by a sigh.

Yeah. He was with me, Jack interjected, arms folded once more as she shifted on one leg. She didn't even bother looking at Liara.

Are we going to have a problem with Liara now? the captain inquired, his patience wearing thin.

Now? No. I've had a problem with Blue since the start, Jack whined. The captain rolled his eyes and huffed in response.

Is there anyone you do like? Garrus wondered, coming up behind her.

The biotic sized him up, then smiled. Well, I like Tali, she teased.

The Turian's eyes opened wide in shock. Oh, I get it. You're joking, he said after a moment, as Jack went to mingle with the Krogan. She's joking, right? he turned toward Shepard, but the human didn't seem responsive. At least, not is a way that was to the alien's liking. She's jok, hey! Hey, he exclaimed rushing behind the woman. Tali is off limits.

These Turians were much tougher to fight, five hundred years ago, Wrex complained as he walked up to the Asari and the human. As soon as you bring up a shotgun, they start running away. Bunch of filthy pushovers.

Someone's feeling moody, Shepard joked. What happened to shooting Turians?

In order to shoot Turians, they need to actually be there when you shoot, Wrex grumbled. All they do is run around like headless pyjaks.

Can't blame them, Zaeed pitched in. They should know better than to fuck with us.

They seemed too fast to turn tail, Grunt objected.

I got the same feel as well, Shepard chimed in. I'm getting the distinct impression that somebody ordered them to fall back. Liara's face seemed to contort, focusing on something on the human's chest. What's wrong? he asked plainly.

There's something on your armor, she said, not entirely sure what to make of it. The captain looked down. There was a red spot and a circle that closed in on it. He had seen something like that before. In fact, he had used something like that before, but at the time, he had pointed it at a Reaper.

It's a goddamn laser spotter, Massani announced. They're going to blast us!

Get to the tomkah, Wrex shouted and commotion started amongst the Krogan.

Everyone, get to the shuttle, Shepard ordered and dragged Liara by the arm. We need to get out of here.

The door to the shuttle jutted upward, as the group came close. Miranda was the first one at the door and climbed in, then helped Garrus in, followed by the three Krogan, Zaeed and Liara. Jack slapped her hand away and made her way in, sprawled on all fours, before standing up straight, then turned around to pull Shepard in. The spectre placed one foot at the front of the vessel, while his hand gripped tightly on a hand railing at the side, ready to hoist himself in. He paused for a moment, bowing his head with contorted eyebrows. His arm slipped away from the railing and took a couple of steps back.

Get on the fucking shuttle, dumbass, Jack snapped at him, arm outstretched, ready to pull him in.

I can't go with you, he said in a hushed tone, more of a realization that was aimed at himself, rather than an answer to Jack.

The fuck you talking about? The biotic demanded.

The spotter is aimed at me. They want to kill me, he replied. If I board that shuttle, you're dead. You're all dead.

You don't know that, she whined.

How could I not? he said, with eyes pleading, urging her to leave. The last of the tomkahs drove off in the distance behind him. The ones inside the shuttle could barely hear Shepard, but could clearly tell what was happening from the way Jack was reacting.

Just get on the fucking shuttle, Shepard, she pleaded.

The spectre took a look around, before making a few decisive steps forward. He hoisted himself up, at the edge of the shuttle and planted a kiss on her. Jack closed her eyes, feeling relief at her mate's change of heart. She felt arms wrap around her, that she didn't even realize they weren't his, or that they came from the wrong direction. His lips parted from hers, he heard him whisper. I'm sorry, were his last words to her.

It took a second for it all to sink in, as she felt something pulling her back. Her eyes snapped open. What? was all she could think of to say, at first. The marine had already started off and the shuttle's door was closing down, as the vessel lifted itself off. She tried to reach out, but someone was holding her tight. She looked behind her to see Grunt. Let go of me, she roared, but the Krogan held her fast. A bright flash suddenly shocked him and sent him flying across the inside of the shuttle, slamming him against the interior hull, making a large dent to it with his massive body. The human biotic turned her attention to the now shut door, trying to bust it open with a lightning infused fist, only to have it smack against a bright blue barrier. She growled at the sight of it and turned around to see Liara projecting it in front of her. Zero, however, was not one to be daunted but such things. Besides, her biotic prowess far surpassed that of the Asari. She plunged her hands inside it and started tearing it apart.

Jack, please, stop, the alien begged her.

The hell I am, she snapped back. I'm not going to let that fucker kill himself. Either we all live, or we all die.

He's not doing it for us, Liara tried in vain to explain.

I don't fucking care, Jack growled as she tore apart the barrier in front of her. A hand on her shoulder gave her a moment of pause, before busting the Kodiak's door open.

He's doing it because he can't risk your life as well, Garrus told her in a soft voice. He needs to know you'll be safe. And if you're safe, then he'll come back to us. You have to believe it.

Her fists clenched tightly and her head bow in remorse. God damn you, boyscout, she spat through gritted teeth.

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That was a great fucking plan, boyscout, said the voice in his head, as the marine ran as fast as he could. Just outrun the orbital strike. It taunted him, mocked him. It hurt even more that it sounded like his lover's voice. But she was nowhere in sight. She was safely flying away on a shuttle back to the Normandy. Still, the fact that she wasn't there, didn't mean she wasn't absolutely right.

Need a lift, Shep? Kasumi chimed in through his ear piece, as a shuttle came around to his position.

Thoroughly surprised, the captain stopped dead in his tracks. What are you doing here? he demanded.

I took Miranda's shuttle down. I was just playing hide and seek, she replied, cheerful as ever.

You need to turn that thing around and get out of here, he ordered.

And where does that leave you? the thief wondered as the kodiak's door opened up, inviting him in.

The captain looked up. The clouds had started to swirl, the ship from above was going to blast them any second now. Of course he could stay there and argue about how Kasumi needed to leave and possibly end up with both of them killed, or do as he was being told, for once and save them the time and effort. Dammit, he spat and jumped inside the vessel. The door shut behind him and he made his way to the co-pilot's seat, next to her. Wait, isn't this, he started but drifted off.

The shuttle you brought in? That's right, she confirmed, lifting it off and flying it away from the soon to be bombarded spot.

Last time I was here I nearly died, the marine reminded her.

The good thing about nearly is that it's not as bad as dead, Kasumi retorted.

Can't say the same thing about the pilot, though, the captain grimaced. The woman gave him a side glance full of fear, then the shuttle brought them both back to reality, as it shook violently. We've been hit, Shepard cried, as the kodiak seemed to rock unevenly.

Hull integrity is fine, Kasumi informed him. We've just been hit by a shockwave, she exhaled, relieved.

Instruments are going haywire. We've got a wall of debris on our tail, the captain informed her. The blast is catching up to us.

I can't go any faster, the thief cried.

Go up, go up, he ordered her in his panic, but it really didn't help. The vessel span out of control, caught in the radius blast of the orbital strike. Propelled by the force, the kodiak flew high, then came crushing down on the ground.

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I'm having trouble with coming up with good titles. Also this one took considerably longer to write. I mean, yeah, it's pretty big. At least compared to what I usually write. But there also were a ton of games that I wanted to play this month and ... well, there's always work keeping me busy. But mostly the games. I hope the next one won't be so far apart.