Writer notes: I just realized their may have been some confusion when I say visor I'm actually referring to the glass lens on Tali's mask I may correct this at a later date but for now you know. I feel Xen is a very out spoken women and is not afraid to make a awkward moment/threaten to get her point across.

Running count: Reaper invasion 18 day.

"Move people." Shouted Shepard shoving someone out of the way making his way to the scanning hall, to the rest of the Citadel.

"I hate it when he's in a rush." Said Garrus Trying to keep up.

"Your telling me." Replied Tali falling behind.

"We don't have time to move slow." Replied Shepard. Shepard fast walked past the Csec door guard, into the door, as it did not open. Shepard looked at the Csec door guard.

"Hold on now, you know the drill. Scan first then I let you through." Said the Csec door guard.

"Well then do the scan already." Said Shepard in a hostile tone. The Csec door guard shook his head and activated the scan. The scan swept over them. After it finished the Csec officer opened the door, and Shepard ran through the door.

"Hey the captain needed to speak with you." Called out the door guard.

Bailey heard the guard and looked up as Shepard ran across in front of him. "Hey Shepard." Called out Bailey loudly, stopping Shepard for a moment. Bailey leaned over the desk looking out at Shepard. "Where are you going in such a hurry Shepard?"

"I have to talk with the council now. I'll get back to you later." Said Shepard trying to get away.

Shepard started moving again. "Well hold on there, we can talk in a squad car." Shepard turned around and stopped. "Come Shepard I thought you where in a hurry." Shepard followed Bailey to a squad car. The squad car door opened, and Shepard Tali and Garrus climbed in following Bailey

"Thanks for the ride bailey he's absolutely horrible when he's on a mission." Said Tali. The Squad car took off. Shepard gazed out the window.

"Not a problem I need a favor anyway." Replied Bailey.

"I don't know if we'll have times for favors bailey. Shepard's got us on a tight schedule right now." Informed Garrus.

"Well before I get to my favor, can I ask what this is all about?" Asked Bailey.

Garrus waited a moment for Shepard to answer, but Shepard ignored the question, and continued to gaze out the window. "The Quarians are about to blame the Alliance for a attack on the flotilla. They jumped the gun, and it turned out to be Cerberus pulling the strings." Informed Garrus.

"Yeah, the Quarians caused quite a stir recently when they pulled in with that ship of theirs." Informed Bailey.

"That's the Zorah one of the most heavily armed ships in the flotilla." Informed Tali.

"They turned a few heads coming through that relay. I wonder what the Turians were thinking. She's seen battle though, from what I understand. The Quarians attacked the Hawking and crippled an entire wolf pack with her."

"It was a rescue mission, and it was more then her alone. We had assistance from the Geth and we brought half of the heavy fleet. We did ask nicely first before we started shooting, but the Alliance refused to turn over Shepard, and our own people.

That's not what they called it. They said it was a first strike against the Alliance, and that you cought the fleet off guard, that you jumped in, and started shooting.

We did nothing of the sort. If we were trying to ambush them then why where all their ships still functional when we left.

Well they could have jumped away, but you say your people rescued Shepard. I can see the Alliance covering that up, no sooner did they catch him they lose him. That's one hell of a blemish, to go on the alliances record. If you don't mind me asking. How did you manage to get the Geth to work with you. Have your people learned how to reprogram them?

"No in fact we made peace, and took our planet back with their help."

"Peace? If you don't mind me saying that's a pretty far fetched idea."

"It's a real shaky peace right now. the short form is their are bad Geth and good Geth. We made friends with the good ones, and wiped most of the bad ones. Their are a few bad Geth left, but they're hardly anything to worry about at this point." Explained Garrus.

"Well that's good news to hear, still don't plan on letting a Geth through unless you bring it Shepard." Said bailey. Shepard continued to ignore Bailey.

Tali reached over and shook Shepard by his shoulder. "Hey." Said Tali. Tali left her hand on his shoulder. Shepard looked over at Tali. "Hey are you okay? You were yelling at people to get out of you way five, ten minutes ago, and now your starring out a window."

Shepard took his hand and put it on Tali's. "Yeah I'm okay, I was just thinking." Replied Shepard.

"About what?"

"Miranda and Cerberus."

"Oh not this again. You did the right thing, now stop beating yourself up about it."

"It's not like that this time. Bailey you said You needed a favor. What is it?" Asked Shepard.

"Finally getting some word out of you now. Listen ever since the whole incident at omega happened, red sand has been pouring in by the freighter. Now I got my wards pretty squared away, but Csec doesn't reach anything off the station." Answered Bailey

"And so you need me to take care of it."

"Yeah, that is if you don't mind. Technically this is a job for a spectre."

"I'll take care of it. Just give me the coordinates, and I'll hit it when it's convenient."

The shuttle landed by the Citadel tower. "Thanks Shepard, stop by before you leave, and I'll get you those coordinates." Shepard, Tali, and Garrus. started to climb out of the shuttle. Oh, and Shepard, Udina is the new councilor now, so watch your self. You got that omni tool set to contact me still, right?

"Yeah. Just press these two buttons." Shepard put two fingers on the button showing him he still had it set.

"Okay, see you around Shepard." Shepard backed up and closed the squad car door.

The squad car left. "Come on we need to hurry." Said Shepard. Shepard, Tali, and Garrus, hurried to the elevator to the council tower, activating it.

"Hey Tali, we're in a elevator for once. Can I start asking question about your people?" Asked Garrus.

"Garrus you have been around my people for more then six months. How can you still have questions?" Asked Tali hoping to deter him.

"Well their is just one question, that your people never seem to want to answer."

"What is it Garrus?"

"Where does the poop go."

"In a waist container inside the suit, and once it's full I have to clean it out."

one more Question then. Does the suit wipe your ass to, or how does that work."

"It fire a small decontamination beam okay it all gets burned off and dropped into the waist container." Answered Tali sounding annoyed.

"Okay final Question, and then I promise I'll drop the subject." Said Garrus laughing under at Tali on how annoyed she was getting.

"What?" Replied Tali even madder.

"When Your not in the suit, do you use the Toilet?"

"Yes, now drop the subject."

"Did Shepard ever have to help you?"

"No, And drop it like you said you would Garrus." Replied Tali one last time.

"Sorry okay I'll stop. So..."

"Garrus enough." Said Shepard speaking up.

"Relax I was just seeing what you'd do. The elevator door opened and they stepped out of the elevator."

"Shepard, Tali, and Garrus hurried to the council, where Raan and Xen where speaking. "Your damn people, tried to assassinate the admiralty board, And blew up one of our ships. Had we not acted so effectively, you may have taken many more lives?" Complained Raan.

"Is this true Udina?" Asked the Asari councilor.

"Of course it's not, they're just telling lies the Quarians have come up with now that they realized there mistake." Replied Udina.

Raan prepared to speak again, but Shepard called out stopping her. "Raan, Xen, hold up a minute." Called out Shepard.

"Shepard What are you doing here?" Asked Raan.

Shepard slowed down to a walk as he reached Raan and Xen."Trying to stop you from making a mistake. They weren't alliance they were Cerberus." Informed Shepard.

"Your sure, Shepard?" Asked Xen.

"Yes I'm almost positive. They where captured Alliance soldier, with Reaper tech in them." Replied Shepard.

"You see, they come in here making false accusations, waisting our time. Why are we even listening to them, they don't even have an embassy here."

"They may not have an embassy here, but their is still reason enough to grant them audience. This war between your two people needs to stop. This council will not support genocide, not again." Said councilor Valern

"What war? They attacked us, and we haven't taken any action against them. They're the ones instigating a war. Besides you see the company they bring. Shepard has a tendency to jump the gun in the first place, and he's a traitor to the alliance as it is. He should be under arrest." Said Councilor Udina.

"He's also a council spectre. Someone who just divulged information that proved the alliance was not responsible for the attack the Quarians so strongly claimed. One the alliance was being blamed for." Replied The Turian Councilor.

"This Council does not serve your personal goals Udina. Like it or not, you do not hold the authority, alone to bar a spectre." Informed the Asari councilor.

"Well maybe I should." mumbled Udina.

"What was that?" Said the Asari councilor.

"Nothing. The Quarian ship should still be impounded by the council, until further notice. That ship and it's crew attacked Alliance ships, in turn they attacked the council." Said Udina.

"True, they did attack a council race." Said The Turian councilor

"There are five thousand people aboard that ship, if the council even attempts to board the Zorah." Said Raan, before being cut off by the Turian councilor.

"You did not allow me to finish Admiral. We, I have no plans to follow Udina on his suggestion. We exist to provide galactic stability, and that includes being good neighbors. You've show yourself now as being a good neighbor, by coming to us, and we have the same responsibility. We will hear your side of the story before we make any decision." Said the Turian councilor

"Thank you councilors, but we will not allow her to be impounded. If needed we have an even more powerful vessel available." informed Xen.

"Xen threatening them is going to get us no where." Scolded Raan.

"Raan they need to know our capability if we are to keep them from taking advantage of us." Said Raan defending her position.

"I understand Xen, but please, let me do the talking." Said Raan. Raan turned to Shepard, and spoke quietly. "Shepard I know Your a council spectre, but I have to ask. If they decide to arrest us, and impound the Zorah you do not let them. No matter what happens you are a welcomed member of the Quarian people, and we will never turn you over."

"Don't worry, I have your back." Said Shepard Truthfully.

"I don't expect it, but thank you Shepard." Replied Raan.

"We're going to wander off a little ways. we're just more ammunition for Udina standing by you side. We won't be far." Informed Shepard.

"Admirals please we are very busy, and cannot afford to waist time. I have to ask that we get on with this." Said the Asari councilor.

"Of course." Said Raan. Shepard Tali and Garrus walked away down the stairs of the council chamber to a bench.

"Shepard you've come a long way from being a homeless, council spectre, but I have to point it out. If they have to turn you over to save their ass's, the Quarians will do it." informed Garrus.

"Garrus how can you say that, Raan just promised." Replied Tali objecting to Garrus's statement.

"Tali don't be so naive. Raan may love you like a daughter, but if turning Shepard over will save the Quarian people she will do it."

They'll never get him, not while I'm alive.

Shepard took Tali's hand. Thanks Tali, but you know I can't let you do that. I've still got their back though, and Garrus if something goes down, you don't have to do anything. Said Shepard.

"Shepard I've got your back, I thought I made that clear. Unless you start shooting random people, I'll be fighting right by your side to the end. Now I had a thought. We all hate Udina right. Well why don't we see if we can get him removed from his position. The ass hole is always causing problems for us, so why don't we get him back." Said Garrus, with a mischievous tone.

"How?" Asked Shepard.

"In your vision, you said Udina was working for Cerberus, so why couldn't he be now." Suggested Garrus.

"Garrus are you talking about planting evidence." Asked Tali.

"Well I can't say the thought didn't cross my mind, but who says it's not already on there." Replied Garrus.

"Okay, he's an ass hole as it is, so why not, but how are we going to do it? I'm not wondering off from Raan." Said Shepard.

"We. We aren't going to do anything. We have a master stealth artist at our disposal." Said Garrus getting a smile.

"Thane?"(Alternate Kasumi) Asked Shepard.

"You know me to well Shepard."

Garrus started to access the comm. "But I thought thane was only sticking around until we stopped the Geth."

"Well we still haven't beat the Geth have we." Garrus began talking to Thane over the comm. "Thane are you available to do a little covert information drop?" Asked Garrus.

"That depends. What exactly will I be doing?" Asked Thane. The comm was loud enough to where Shepard could here it.

"We're trying to take down a politician. What do you think?" asked Garrus whispering into the comm.

"Does this politician have it coming to him?"

"You could say that. It's councilor Udina. will you do it?"

"Yes I'll except the contract, I expect my payment in full upon your return.

"Haha ha, you got it Thane."

"Let's just hope I don't get cought, or the blow back won't just be reflected on me"

"Great, have EDI make some forge documents placing councilor Udina working for Cerberus." Garrus continued to stay on the comm with thane giving more precise instructions for the drop.

Tali put her hand on Shepard's leg, and Shepard looked over at her. "Hey do you want to tell me what you were thinking about in the car?" Asked Tali.

"I told you it was about Miranda." Answered Shepard

"And Cerberus. So why don't you give me the details."

"I was thinking about when she had you, she could have ran, but she didn't. Why would she not run she could have beat me to the shuttle, and got the hell out of there."

"So what are you saying, she wanted to die."

"Maybe. When it came down to it, she was a good person at heart. What if she had a control chip implanted in her head. She might have been fighting it. She knew what Cerberus would make her do, and so she wanted to end it, before they could use her. Only she didn't know they'd use her anyway. We should have examined the body, instead of just rushing her off the ship.

Tali moved her hand on Shepard's face. "Hey I want you to stop thinking about this okay. Your right that's exactly what happened, and that's how we'll remember her, even if that's not what happened. Let's focus on what we know. I'm here, Saleen's alive, the Normandy is right in the docking bay, and most of all I love you. No matter what the truth is, shooting Miranda was the right thing to do."

Shepard took Tali's hand off the side of his face and held it in front of his face for a moment before kissing it. "Uh Shepard people are staring." Said Garrus.

"Let them stare, I'm with my girl, and I'm not going to hide it. Said Shepard, not looking away from Tali. Shepard then pressed his for head against Tali's visor, and starred into her eyes, and lost track of time.

"You two getting cozy." Said Xen walking up to them.

Shepard and Tali broke away. "Uh. What do you need Xen?" Asked Shepard Quickly

"Nothing, I just had to leave before I said something I shouldn't. It's nice to know that some people can look beyond the mask and see the beauty of the mind."

"It's not like I'm completely immune to looks Xen, had she been a squid monster it would have been a no go."

"And who would blame you, those things are hideous."

"What happened to looking beyond the mask Xen?" Asked Tali.

Their are exceptions to the rules. Like that councilor Udina, such a hideous man, both outward and inward appearance. Everyone gave a little chuckle aside from Garrus, who was on the comm with Thane. "Your sure you won't share him Tali."

"Sorry, you can't have him, but even if I was willing, you've seen how loyal this man is."

"Ah well it was worth a shot. Let me know if you two ever change your mind. Now I better go back and check on Raan. She'll be lost without me." Xen walked back towards the council.

"Okay, I just want to get my for on the record here. Though I find it really weird Xen even asked, if you ever want to involve another women I'll be more then willing."

"Good, but I'm going to get my for on the record now. Never. Going. To happen." Tali Poked Shepard on the chest hard. Shepard smiled.

Shepard caress Tali's mask, unable to get to the face, Tali held Shepard's had and leaned against it. "I'm perfectly fine with that." Said Shepard softly.

"Are you two love birds done yet, it's a bit sickening to watch." Said Garrus trying to get their attention.

"Then look away Garrus." Replied Shepard.

"I can't. Thanes inside Udina's office." Garrus answered back.

Shepard took his hand off Tali. "Link us over." Garrus linked them over on the comm. Thane what have you found. Said Shepard over the comm.

"I have just entered the room, and I'm accessing the computer as we speak. He's got a password, I'm going to try a standard hack program I may need your help Tali." A moment past with Silence. "I'm in. You would expect a councilors computer to be more secure." Said Thane.

"Just drop the data and get out of there."

"That may not be a good idea Shepard."

"Why not?"

"Because I have found several files mentioning the charges brought against you."

"Is their anything incriminating on their. It's going to take more study then the time I have. I am going to download the information in to my omni tool, and bring it back to the Normandy. EDI can examine the information there. Do you still want me to make the drop? If there is evidence that can bring down the councilor our drop could complicate things."

"No just pull the information, and get out of their before you get cought."

"Will do Shepard. I'm finishing the remote download now. Someones coming. I have to go, but I'll leave the comm open."

"Yeah there was a unauthorized download not five minutes ago are you sure you didn't let anyone in." Said a voice bleeding over the comm.

Yeah I'm sure. no one has. Came another voice growing even louder over the comm. Sounds of fighting came over the comm. then the comm went silent.

"Thane are you there? come in Thane." Called Shepard into the comm quietly.

The comm was silent for a few more moments. "Yes Shepard I am here. lets hope they didn't realize who I was." Said Thane

"Get back to the Normandy." Said Shepard speaking normally.

"Roger that."

"That could have gone better." Said Garrus.

"Yeah, a lot better. A Drell on the station how many could there be, and conveniently the same time we're here."

"We needed the data on that computer though, if we're ever going to exonerate you of these charges. My people can take the heat if necessary they owe you that much." Said Tali.

"Owe who, what." Said Raan walking up to them with Xen.

"Nothing that should be discussed here. We should probably get going before the council decides we are a threat." Suggested Tali.

"And then you will tell us what's going on?" Asked Xen.

"Of course." Replied Tali.

"Do you want an escort to the Zorah? It wouldn't be a problem." Offered Shepard.

"No. Thank you Shepard, but I believe a assassination attempt on us would be a mistake after the proceedings with the council today. Be safe, all of you." Answered Raan.

"We will." Replied Shepard. Shepard, Tali, Garrus, Xen and Raan walked to the elevator taking it down to the presidium, before parting ways.

"So Shepard are we going to stick around for a while, or are we taking off for that Cerberus factory?" Asked Garrus.

"Sorry Garrus, but the longer we stick around her the longer that facility builds Geth Mecs." Answered Shepard.

"Can I just get five minutes then? I need to grab something I left it in my old Csec locker a long time ago, and just got the nerve to go get it."

"You sure it's still there?"

"Yeah it's still there, at least I hope."

"Well, what is it?"

"If I told you you probably wouldn't give me the time to go get it."

"Garrus, I'm not gonna deny you five minutes. Just go get it and be back on the ship asap."

"Thanks Shepard." Garrus took of running to go get his item.

"I wonder what he's getting." Said Tali.

"What ever it is, it must be important."

Shepard and Tali made their way to Bailey, and began speaking with him. "Hey Shepard. How'd it go?" Asked Bailey

"Unfortunately we where a little late, but thanks for the ride it helped out a lot." Replied Shepard.

"Sorry we couldn't get their sooner, but god knows I had the petal to the floor."

"It was faster then rapid transit, that's for sure."

"True." Bailey picked up a data pad with the coordinates to the location he wanted Shepard to hit. "Well here you go Shepard." Bailey handed Shepard the pad. "Hey what ever happened to that Varren of yours."

"He's on the ship." Answered Shepard reading the Data pad.

"Oh, I thought he might have died or something. The past couple times you've been here, you haven't brought him aboard. I keep a pass ready just in case."

"We just haven't had time recently, poor boy has been stuck on the ship for months." Said Tali.

"I'll take him down to the shuttle bay later, and play with him." Said Shepard finally looking away from the data pad.

"Thank you." Replied Tali.

Shepard looked at the data pad examining the Intel some more. "This is a tropical planet, it rains all the time. Why would anyone make red sand here? The moister could ruin the sand." Suggested Shepard.

"And that exactly why it's such a good place to do it. An operation like that is so risky, no one would dare do it, and so no one would even bother to look. These guys must have one hell of a facility." Suggested Bailey.

"Which means they must have a lot of guns, and tech. I'll definitely look into it." Said Shepard. Garrus walking around the corner almost running into Shepard.

"Whoa, sorry Shepard. I didn't realize you where going to be right there. Said Garrus holding a bottle in hands.

"It's fine Garrus. What do you have in your hand?" Asked Shepard.

"Its nothing Shepard, just the item I needed to pick up. Please don't press the issue."

"I can tell it's a bottle Garrus. That's not drugs is it?"

"No they're not. Well they are technically a drug, but not the illegal sort of kind."

"Garrus when I say drugs I mean the stuff that's gonna mess with your mind. I won't have my best friend doing drugs."

"Trust me Shepard it's nothing like that. It's for a little personal problem I have."

"If you would like I could take a look neutral party and all." Offered Bailey.

"Uh, no offence bailey but i don't want anyone to know what this is. Now can we go?" Asked Garrus.

"Yeah, but if those turn out to be drugs, I'm kicking your ass." Said Shepard.

"You mean you'll try." Replied Garrus.

"Bailey I promise I'll look into this, and I'll send you the bill when I'm done." Said Shepard joking.

"Haha I'll just remember to subtract it off all the times you owe me already. I'll see you around Shepard." Said Bailey.

"Yeah, hopefully." Replied Shepard. Shepard, Tali, and Garrus left for the Normandy, and the Normandy detached from the Citadel, leaving for the Cerberus facility.

Shepard now stood in the CIC at the Galaxy map. Garrus had run off with his bottle of pills, and Tali was making her way to Doctor Chakwas to get Saleen. "EDI have you learned anything?" Asked Shepard.

"Yes, but what I've learned has only added more questions." Stated EDI.

"like what? Give me the details." Shepard leaned on the galaxy map railing. EDI displayed her self as the Cerberus infiltration Mec in place of the galaxy map.

"EDI, I asked for you to give me the details not parade yourself around in your new body, you don't even have yet."

"I am just attempting to adjust the crew to my soon to be appearance."

"Well I don't need to be adjusted to it, I already learned to live with it in my vision, lets just get on with what you've learned."

EDI disappeared, and returned the galaxy map. "Your name appears many times throughout Councilor Udina's communication with several members of alliance parliament . Their is one in particular that I have found Interesting."

"Interesting how?"

"They seem to speak in code when communicating."

"Where you able to translate it?"

"Without the cypher it is impossible to be sure whether I am correct in my translation, but my translation has put you, and The Illusive man into many of the conversations aswell."

"Is it incriminating or not EDI?"

"The evidence could be considered incriminating, but without the support of the cypher, it will be extremely difficult to charge councilor Udina. As without the cypher it is impossible to be sure what exactly they are speaking of. For example the words operation white out appears in not only one, but two communications between parliament officials. Another message between the same political official and Councilor Udina mentions that a certain parliament official, who's name I cannot translate, may interfere with operation white out and will have to be dealt with before proceeding with the operation. One could assume that this involves Cerberus soldiers in their white armor, taking over alliance parliament, but this is only a assumption . If you would like I can give you the information to read for yourself, so you can make your own judgement."

"Thanks EDI, but I trust you. But how does any of this tie to The Illusive man?"

"It does appear so on many occasions do they speak of a single man who will maintains absolute power over his obedient forces, and how this ability will be shared with all government officials who follow his direction."

"That sounds like The Illusive man alright, except for the sharing part. I'll tell you what, have a untranslated copy sent to my computer. I want to read it, and see if I come to the same conclusion. Meanwhile work with Liara on digging deeper into this. Focus on alliance parliament it sounds like theirs a mole."

"Yes Shepard." Shepard walked away to go get Urz and play with him like he promised.

Shepard led Urz up to the mess hall. Urz was panting and Shepard was all sweaty from playing with him. Garrus was working with some food as they where only an hour out from they're mission. Shepard walked over to the sink next to Garrus and turned it on splashing his face with water. "You tired Shepard?" Asked Garrus.

"A little." Replied Shepard. Garrus proceeded to smash a pill. Shepard looked over at Garrus noticing the pill bottle sitting in front of him.

"Don't even think about it Shepard." Garrus pulled the bottle away from Shepard and pocketed it.

"Garrus what is that stuff."

"Something that taste bad unless it's in food, and is too big to swallow." Garrus scraped the smashed powder from the pill into his hand, and dusted it into the food he was making.

"Garrus just tell me what it is."

"No, now drop it." Urz put his front paws on the counter trying to get to the water. Shepard dropped the subject, and went for a bowl filling it up for Urz. Garrus finished what he was making, and walked off to the main battery with his food. Shepard looked on the counter and saw a sizeable chunk of the smashed pill, where the wall met the counter.

Shepard quickly grabbed it, and pocketed it. Garrus seemed to want to keep this pill thing private. Shepard crouched down in front of Urz. "You be a good boy. I have to go speak with Legion. EDI where's Legion?" Asked Shepard.

"Engineering. Would you like me to call him up?" Offered EDI.

"No, I'll go to him. Do you think you can direct Urz back up to the room when he's done?" Asked Shepard.

I will ask some one to bring him to the elevator? Replied EDI. Shepard pet Urz and then walked away. Shepard came down to engineering to find more people then he expected.

"It's alright hunny, I know your cold, but you'll warm up real quick here. This is the warmest room on the ship." Said Tali holding Saleen. Tali glanced over in Shepard's direction seeing him. They walked over to each other quickly.

"What's wrong with her, she's shivering?" Asked Shepard.

"Her heating element burned out, I brought her down here to keep her warm."

"Why didn't you just turn the heat up in the room?"

"Because I haven't been up in the room yet, and I'm going to have to make it ninety degrees in there. You're going to practically die in there when I do."

"How come your not cold up there when your out of your suit? I am cold. All the time in fact?"

"Is that why you sleep on top of me all the time?"

"Yes. You put of a tremendous amount of heat."

"You should have told me we could have compromised. Well give her here, I'll keep her warm while I'm down here."

"You are such a good man." Tali handed Saleen over to Shepard who immediately seemed to take to him."

"Anything for my two girls."

"Maybe I'll get some work done now."

"Maybe. Hows Reegar holding up?" Reegar was speaking with Gabby, Donnelly, and the for engineers just a little bit away from them.

"I don't know. Kelly's going to talk to him later today. Right now he's putting on a good show though, telling everyone how to keep engineering safe if we get boarded, but I think he's more upset then he's letting on."

"I'll take him on mission with us, he'll probably want to get some payback. But I have to go speak with Legion first. I got a hold of one of Garrus's pills and I want to see if Legion can tell me what it is. If I ask anyone else I take a chance of it spreading around the ship."

"Right, will you tell me once you find out?"

"That depends on what it is."

"Don't you trust me?"

"I trust you Tali. It's drunk Tali I don't trust."

"Vorcha."

"Varren."

"Varren where the hell did that come from?"

"Those stripes of your, they're like Urz's."

"So that's how you think of me now, a Varren?"

"A very, very sexy varren."

"I think I need to keep you away from Urz now."

"Why can I be a Vorcha, but you can't be a varren?"

"Vorcha walk on two legs that's why."

"Well I've gotten you on all fours before. Look it was just something stupid I thought of, and I thought it would turn you on a little bit more, like when you call me a Vorcha. Let's just forget about it."

"Hhh, Your right it was stupid, but thoughtful. I'll tell you what in three weeks we'll try it out, if I like it then we'll keep it. I know how when I call you a Vorcha that fire of yours starts burning. Maybe the same will happen to me."

"I love you."

"I know you do, now go talk to Legion." Shepard started to walk away and Tali snuck a pat to Shepard's ass. Shepard looked back and smiled before continuing to Legion.

"Legion do you have a minute to analyze something?" Asked Shepard still holding Saleen.

"The analyze may take longer then a minute." Replied Legion.

"You still working on the shields."

"No monitoring temperature of the core. Shepard commander is interrupting. What is it you require?"

"Can you analyze this?" Shepard freed a hand, and struggled to reach in his pocket. Shepard pulled out the peace of pill, and handed it to Legion.

Legion analyzed the pill four about ten seconds then looked at Shepard. "We do not understand why Shepard commander obtained this."

"It's not mine Legion I just want to know what it does."

"It strengthens the sperm of a Turian."

"What?"

"The object strengthen the sperm of a Turian."

"Why would Garrus need this."

"We assumed this would be obvious. The."

Shepard cut Legion off. "I understand why Legion."

"Then why did Shepard commander ask the question."

"I was just trying to rationalize in my head that's all. Keep this quiet don't tell anybody."

"Understood."

"And that goes for you to." Said Shepard looking down at Saleen.

"Shepard commander it is likely she does not understand what we are saying."

"It was a joke Legion." Shepard walked back over to Tali walking by Reegar. "Reegar I want you Geared up." Said Shepard to Reegar.

"Why?" Asked Reegar

"Because your coming on mission, now get going." Reegar took off out of engineering. Replied Shepard firmly.

Shepard reached Tali. "Did you have to be so hard on him?" Asked Tali.

"That wasn't hard Tali. That was structure. He needs something familure to fall back on right now. I won't yell at him in the field. I'm just trying to take his mind off of things." Replied Shepard.

"Okay then. Did you find out what the pills are for?"

"Yes."

"Will you tell me?"

"No, but your welcome to try and get it out of Legion."

"Bosh'tet." Said Tali playfully poking Shepard's chest.

"I love you two. Now I've got to go get ready." Shepard started to hand Saleen over to Tali and noticed a tug on his shirt. Shepard looked down to see Saleen grasping the color of his shirt. Shepard stopped and pulled her back in. "I need a little help Tali."

"She just doesn't want daddy to leave."

"But I need to go Tali."

"I know, just let me get a picture." Tali raised her arm and snapped a picture. Tali then unhooked Saleen's hand from Shepard shirt, and took Saleen from his arms. Saleen let out a little wine before settling down.

"hhh, you know I hate to do this to her, but daddy's more likely to come home if mommy comes with him. I'm going to be fighting Mecs, and you'd be a lot of help."

"I'll see if Zuula can watch her, she's going to have to turn up the heat though."

"Well maybe you shouldn't go. Man having her is putting a damper on things. I really need you on this Tali." Shepard put his hand on his face thinking. "What if we asked Legion to do it."

"You want to let Legion watch our child?" Said Tali loudly with disbelief that Shepard even could suggest it. The statement seemed to catch the attention of everyone in engineering. "I am not letting Legion watch her."

"I love our daughter to, but why not."

"Because he could crush her or." Tali paused for a minute having no other reason. "Because he could crush her."

"Tali it's either him or you, now which is it going to be?"

"I need to think about this."

"We go on mission in less then a hour Tali so make your decision quick. I love you."

"I know you do, sorry for snapping at you I'm just stressed right now. You'll know by who comes down the elevator."

"Okay, but just so you know, I hope it's you."

"Okay." Shepard grabbed Tali's head and planted a kiss on her mask.

"Okay now I have to go." Shepard back away, and then turned leaving for the crew deck. Shepard entered life support to find Thane laying on his cot. "Thane is now a good time to talk?" Asked Shepard.

"As good as any." Replied Thane. Thane got out off his cot, and motioned to the table. Shepard and Thane sat across from each other.

"I wanted to thank you Thane, you didn't have to do what you did on the citadel."

"It was for a good cause."

"Taking down a councilor is a good cause."

"Depends on the councilor."

"haha, Yeah I guess it does." Shepard smiled and looked down at the table. "Don't take this the wrong way Thane, but why are you still here on the Normandy."

"Because I like what I do here. I can atone for my sins here, like on Rannoch."

"I can see that. Thanks for saving my ass by the way."

"You where lucky I happened to glance over in your direction. The other team was very disorganized."

"Disorganized how?"

"Two soldiers barking orders is no way to lead a team."

"Let me guess Javik?"

"Who else?"

"Figures, I wonder why Jacob never said anything."

"He eventually submitted to Javik."

Shepard Shook his head. "That was his command for a reason. I'll have to talk to him about it."

"He did the best he could under the circumstances Shepard."

"I understand that, but Javik will run everyone over if we let him. Next time I put Jacob as team leader, I want you there as an observer. Remind him that I put him in charge, not Javik.

"I believe I can do that."

"Good. So what about Kolyat. I thought you wanted to spend as much time as you could with your son?"

"I did, but a father can only do so much before he smothers the child. You would be wise to remember that. I will see him again. perhaps when this war with the Reapers start we could bring him back aboard keep him safe."

"Of course. They aren't going to blame Kolyat for what you did right."

"They cannot. You've seen our skin tones, not something you can confuse."

"True. Has he found work sense last time you spoke to him."

"Yes at the moment he works as a clerk for Csec. Simple work nothing complicated. Unfortunately he has little skills other then shooting a gun. He doesn't want to be shot, but he's looking in to joining Csec. I've asked Bailey to give him extended training, we'll see what happens."

"Do what you have to."

"Exactly."

"Well I hope for the best. Listen I need you to work with Garrus if your up to it?"

"Sniper work?"

"Like always. I'm bringing Tali and Reegar into the facility."

"Who will take care of your child."

"Legion will."

"Your sure that is a good idea?"

"I don't think he's going to hurt her."

"Perhaps some like Kelly would be better."

"It'll be hot up there. Saleen's heating element broke in her suit."

"oh, I am sorry for the cheapness of the suit, we tried to spare no expense on the basics."

"It's not your fault Thane, just faulty equipment or something."

"Never the less, I'll see if Kelly will at least assist in watching your child."

"Let Tali know if she will, Right now she's concerned about leaving Legion alone with her."

"I will."

"Well that's it for now, I need to prep for the mission."

Shepard walked up behind Joker in the CIC. "They haven't spotted us have they?"

"I don't think so. That's not why I called you up here though." Replied Joker.

"Not another Cerberus cruisers right?"

"Not this time, but take a look at this. Joker pulled a holographic screen over to where Shepard could see it, and pointed to a read spot on the screen. You see that?"

"If it's not a cruiser what is it."

"That's a freighter going for the mass relay."

"So."

"So. I wouldn't say anything about it unless it was important. I had EDI traced the name of freighter. It doesn't appear on the known ship registry. I think it's Cerberus Commander."

"We go check that out, and we tip the facility off."

"Yeah, but if you let them go. Who knows what they're carrying in there, and where they're going. It's your call commander, but I really suggest we hit it." Shepard sat back, and thought for a minute. "Times ticking commander."

"We need to check it out, and if necessary blow it up. What if we took the shuttle from here to the planet. Do you think you could latch on with the boarding tube?"

"If EDI can access their computers systems, sure anythings possible."

"EDI what do you say?" Asked Shepard.

"I will make the attempt." Replied EDI

"Good. Nice work both of you. EDI, Call Jacob and Javik to the airlock, and patch me into Thane." Ordered Shepard.

"Yes Shepard." Replied EDI.

"Thane Change of plans I need you to meet me at the airlock." Said Shepard over the comm.

"For what reason?" Asked Thane.

"We picked up a possible Cerberus freighter, and I'm putting Jacob in charge of the boarding mission."

"So you want me to observe?"

"Yeah. think you can still do that?"

"I believe I can I'll meet you up there."

"Shepard you rang? Said Jacob coming up the CIC hall. "I thought I wasn't going on this mission." Stated Jacob.

"You aren't." Replied Shepard.

"Then what's up."

"Listen I've got another mission for you, and I want you in charge."

"Okay, who am I leading, and what's my mission?"

"Theirs a freighter that we think is Cerberus, and I can't hit both, the facility, and the freighter without tipping off the facility. I want you to lead Thane and Javik over there, and I don't want any bull shit like last time."

"Last time?" Said Jacob Questioningly.

"You submitting to Javik's authority. I put you in charge for a reason, and last time you disappointed me. Had you not taken out that gun, you where to blame, not Javik. It's one thing to take a suggestion, but when your in charge I expect you to lead not follow."

"Shepard Javik is just to much, I can't handle him. Give me Liara or even Legion, just not Javik.

"Liara and Legion are busy. I know you can do this Jacob. put Javik in his place." Shepard put his hand on Jacobs shoulder. "I trust you Jacob, now shape up and lead." Shepard took his hand off Jacob and walked towards the elevator passing Javik, who was coming down the CIC hall.

"Shepard why am I to go to the Air lock, when you are leaving?" Asked Javik.

Shepard stopped and turned around. "Jacob will brief you." Replied Shepard, making the point that Jacob was in charge. Shepard then turned around and walked to the elevator where Thane came out. "Hey Thane don't let his command go to his head either just keep him straight. EDI will give you a full brief on the mission." Said Shepard to Thane.

"I will try my best." Replied Thane. Shepard nodded, and then proceeded to the elevator.

Shepard and Garrus started grabbing their gear off the weapons rack in a awkward silence. Shepard Spoke up to break the silence. "I know what that pill does Garrus." Said Shepard, still grabbing his gear.

"No you don't Shepard, you're just trying to get me to spill, and I'm going to tell you again to drop it." Replied Garrus hostilely.

"Garrus don't make me say what it does."

Garrus stopped and turned towards Shepard. "Go ahead, what does it do." Said Garrus believing Shepard was bluffing.

Shepard looked to make sure no one was near them, and then still spoke quietly. "It's for your week sperm."

Garrus's eye's widened. "How the hell did you find out about that, was it EDI?"

"No. Remember when you smashed the pill. Well you didn't do a good job policing it, and a peace flew off, and I found it. I had Legion analyze it." Garrus motioned to say something, but Shepard cut him off. "Don't worry, I won't even tell Tali, and I swore Legion to secrecy, but when we get back we're going to have a serious talk about trust."

Garrus said nothing, and went back to grabbing his gear, and so did Shepard. "I didn't want you to know Shepard."

"Then you shouldn't have acted like you had drugs." Shepard and Garrus finished grabbing there gear, and walked over to the shuttle, waiting on either Tali or Legion to come down.

"I said they where for a personal problem."

"Personal problem can mean anything."

"Well you took it to the extreme Shepard, like you do with everything.

"Hey I'm just looking out for you." Tali stepped out of the elevator. Shepard grew a smile while Tali went for the weapons rack. "And I promised no one will find out. Not unless you spill."

Tali grabbed her gear and walked over to Garrus and Shepard. "So where's Reegar? Is he still coming?" Asked Tali.

"I thought so, he's suppose to be here." Said Shepard looking around the Shuttle bay.

"Where's Cortez anyway?" Asked Garrus.

"Check the shuttle." Suggested Shepard.

"Garrus backed up, and looked in the shuttle. I've got them Shepard, they're right here. Shepard and Tali moved on to the shuttle. with Garrus.

Shepard accessed the comm. "Joker we're ready." Said Shepard, over the comm.

"Roger that. Give those bastards hell." Said Joker.

"Will do, and I'll try to remember that EDI body.

"You better I didn't wait this long so you can skip out on me now."

"haha, open the door Joker."

"Right." The shuttle bay door opened and the shuttle took off.

"Make sure to give us enough time to get inside the base."

"Will do Commander. Joker out."

Shepard looked at Tali. "So what changed your mind?" Asked Shepard.

"Kelly offered to poker her head in, every once in a while to make sure Legion doesn't do anything to her." Informed Tali.

"Why is Legion watching her." Asked Garrus.

"Because the thermal element in her suit broke, and it's hot in the room." Replied Tali.

"Something wrong with the ventilation?" Asked Garrus.

"No we had to turn the heat up to ninety degrees just to stop her from shivering." Answered Tali.

"I bet that will be hell on you Shepard." Said Reegar."

"It's about time you said something Reegar, and only a little I'll figure something out. So are you ready for payback." Replied Shepard.

"Payback will be the moment I carve every one of my crew's name into the Illusive man's skull."

"A little harsh but I'll remember to bring back his head then. You are going to follow orders on this mission right."

"Of course."

"Approaching our destination." shouted Cortez behind himself.

"Good." Replied Shepard.

"That's not all Shepard. I've got a lot of electronic signatures moving around out side the facility."

"Let me see." Shepard moved to the front of the shuttle and looked at a panel.

"See what I mean? It's lit up like a damn Christmas tree."

"A Christmas tree?" Said Tali questioningly

"I'll tell you about it later. Cortez drop us right here." Ordered Shepard. Shepard pointed to a clearing on the map.

System: Hourglass Nebula/Osun/Erinle

Shepard, Tali and Reegar stepped off the shuttle. The shuttle took off to go drop off Garrus. "So when are you going to tell me about this tree that lights up." Asked Tali.

"I guess I can tell you about it right now, but we have to move." The team moving toward the facility, they had a small woods to walk through, and it was early morning on the planet. As they reached the edge of the woods they could start to see the facility at a distance. "And that's what Christmas is all about." Said Shepard.

"Why don't you celebrate it? It sounds like fun."

"No time right now, we've got to much on our plates to stop for that."

"But what about before, have you ever celebrated it?"

"We did in the military every year, mainly just eating a lot of food. When this is all over I'll give you the best Christmas you've ever had. Saleen deserves it."

"Well I better receive a gift from you then Shepard." Said Reegar.

"Are you kidding me Reegar. the planet wasn't." Shepard stopped hearing a noise. Get down." Ordered Shepard in a projected whisper.

Shepard poked his head up to see where the noise came from. Two Cerberus soldiers without upgraded armor were walking through the woods. "I'm telling you, it's just one of those wild varren that the Salarians let go." Stated the first Soldier

"Your probably right, let's sit down and have a smoke, the boss will never know." Replied the second Soldier.

"I thought Cerberus was switching to the armor Jacob wears." Said Tali whispering.

"I thought so to, maybe they just haven't gotten to these two yet. Reegar get your rifle ready. We'll take them down together." ordered Shepard still whispering. Reegar pulled his sniper rifle, and looked down his scope. So did Shepard. Ready? asked Shepard to Reegar as he but the soldier in his scope. Suddenly a biotic blast hit the two soldiers, and sent them flying into some trees. "What the hell was that?"

"It came from over there." Said Tali pointing. A figure then moved Quickly across the woods, like a Ghost.

"Did anybody else see that?" Asked Shepard

"Barely ." Replied Reegar.

Shepard accessed his comm. "Garrus theirs someone out her with us. I didn't get a good look, but hesitate before you shoot." Ordered Shepard.

"Understood Shepard I'm already in over watch position your not going to like what's out here." Replied Garrus.

"Why how bad is it?" Asked Shepard.

Shepard got the team moving again out of the woods, and behind a large Rock. "I'm looking at three atlas's, two YMIR Mecs, Geth Mecs, those damn security Mecs, and on top of all that Cerberus has a good contingent of soldiers there. It's like they knew we where coming Shepard."

"We can't turn back Garrus." Shepard peaked out from behind the rock with his sniper rifle. "I'm looking at them right now do you think we can take out a atlas if we focus fire on one of them."

"Maybe, but it's a gamble Shepard."

"We'll never know if we don't try. I'll take left, you take right Shepard. We lean out and hit it all at the same time." Suggested Reegar.

"That's what I was thinking. Garrus which one do you want to take?" Asked Shepard.

"Farthest one out on the right, he's got the best angle on me. Can you see it?" Asked Garrus.

"Yeah I'm on him, just let me turn my auto sighter off." Shepard flipped a switch and the rifle centered up. "Okay I'm on him." Said Shepard.

"I Got him." Said Reegar.

"Okay on my mark. Three. two." the Mecs turned. "Damn it, I can't get a shot." Said Garrus.

"Looks like somethings got them spooked." Replied Shepard. Shepard Sighted over on a soldier who was motioning as if he was giving orders.

"Maybe it's our friend from the woods." Suggested Tali. most of the soldiers and two of atlas's took off, in the direction the far right atlas had turned.

"We'll that just opened the door some." Said Garrus.

"That's still a lot Garrus. Tali do you think you can hack one of the YMIR Mecs." Said Shepard.

"I can hack both at the same time if you would like. I can't believe you didn't consider it before." Answered Tali.

"You can do that?"

"Of course the their firewall is so out of date I can easily hack them. Plus I've been working on some new hacking technique."

"Do it. Garrus can you get a bead on that last atlas?" Asked Shepard.

"Already on him, just say the word." Answered Garrus.

"Reegar you ready?" Asked Shepard.

"As ever." Replied Reegar.

"Okay on my Mark every one. Three. Two. one. Mark. Said Shepard. Shepard, Garrus, and Reegar opened up on the atlas killing the pilot inside. Tali hacked the YMIRs, which engaged the smaller security and Geth Mecs. "Garrus target Cerberus before they can report in." Said Shepard on the comm. Shepard started picking off the remaining Cerberus guys aswell with is raptor.

"I'm losing control of one of the heavy Mecs, take it out now before it shoots at us." Said Tali.

"Which one Tali?" Shepard looked at both heavy Mecs and couldn't tell which to shoot.

"Never mind I got it." Replied Tali. The Mec both turned to shoot each other in the head disabling them both.

"Those Mecs are going critical. Take cover." Said Shepard hastily . Shepard dove back behind the rocks, and waited for them to explode. The explosion shook the ground Shepard had never taken down two heavy Mecs at the same time before. "Garrus is their anything left down there?"

"Just one or two Mecs." Responded Garrus.

"Alright just sit tight up there, and watch our backs." Ordered Shepard. Shepard and the team moved out up to the facility."

As they approached the area the team picked off several of the LOKI Mecs that where dragging themselves across the ground. "So this is how you work Shepard. N7's are more then I thought they'd be, I can't believe you say my regiment is hard." Said Reegar.

"This was luck." Responded Shepard.

A radio could be herd from one of the dead Cerberus soldiers. "echo team this is bravo. we heard a explosion. Is everything okay. Echo company respond." Said a Cerberus soldier over the comm.

Shepard walked over to the dead Cerberus soldier and picked up his radio. "This is echo. We're okay, we had to take out one of the heavy Mecs it went crazy. Some moron said he was hearing voices, and then shot the Mecs. One of the LOKI Mecs must have landed a head shot. Whipped out half our Mecs, but where okay." Said Shepard acting as

"Yeah a few of my guys are complaining about voices to. We'll be back asap." Replied the Cerberus Soldier.

"Roger that." Shepard turned off the radio, and accessed his comm. "Garrus I've got this handled down here, sit tight, and keep our exit clear." Said Shepard on his normal comm.

"Got it Shepard." Replied Garrus. Shepard, Tali and Reegar entered the facility.

"I wander what exactly drew them away from the door." Said Tali.

"We can't worry about that right now. Stay focused." Ordered Shepard. Two LOKI Mecs came down the hall. Shepard and Reegar popped them in the head. The Mecs fell to the ground and exploded seconds later.

"Damn those Mecs are stupid." Said Reegar.

"Out dated combat software, the Geth Mecs are for sure an upgrade." They rounded the corner. walking into the main factory. Look at this place it must put out thousands of Mecs a day. We have to destroy this place." Said Tali.

"Agreed." Replied Shepard.

Two Cerberus solders walked out from behind some machinery, and saw the team. The soldier fired at Shepard and dove back be hind the machinery. Shepard managed to nail one of them before he could take cover. "We have intruder west quadrant Security assembly." Yelled the other soldier into his radio.

Shepard and the team took cover behind several crates. "Tali on me Reegar flank right." Ordered Shepard. Shepard, and Tali quickly moved up behind the corner of machinery where the soldier was hiding Reegar continued to flank right moving against some other machinery, that formed a rectangular section. Tali be ready. Shepard holstered his rifle. Shepard lunged around the corner, and grabbed the Cerberus soldier knocking the gun out of his hand and throwing him into their section. the soldier stumbled before getting a chest full Of Graal Spikes from Tali. "That's my girl." Shepard pulled his Raptor back out and flipped the auto sighter on firing at the LOKI Mecs that where coming down the make shift hall way. The rifles auto target mad short work with head shots on each Mec, but the Mecs seemed to keep coming. "Reegar move up behind that control panel." ordered Shepard. Reegar hurried while Shepard gave cover fire. "Tali on stay on me." Tali followed Shepard as he moved up supporting him. "Tali see what you can do at that control panel." Tali ran to the control panel and threw out Chatikka. "Reegar move up some give Tali cover."

"I'm trying to Shepard. Replied Reegar. Reegar moved around Tali and took cover further up."

"I'm shutting down one of the production lines we have to find the other one." Shouted Tali. A YMIR Mec came around the corner supported by several Cerberus soldiers, and LOKI Mecs.

"Tali get to cover." Yelled Shepard. A shot hit Tali, only to be stopped by her barriers. Tali fell into cover behind the control panel. "Tali are you okay?" Said Shepard glancing back checking on her.

"I'm fine." Replied Tali. Tali leaned out sitting on the floor from the fall, and started firing.

They continued to engage the Mecs and Cerberus taking down the first wave only to be met by more YMIR Mecs and atlas's. "Shepard they're getting two close we need to fall back." Said Reegar.

"We can't let the push us back, clear me a path to a atlas." Ordered Shepard. Shepard targeted a atlas's window shooting at the pilot beating down the shield. Tali and Reegar attempted to clear a path. A explosion happened behind where the enemy had been flooding from. a biotic shock wave then sent soldiers and Mecs flying from where they where coming from, cutting off their reinforcements. The team continued to fight off the enemy making a difference now. Shepard had managed to shoot through a atlas window, and kill the pilot, before it fell on it's face, do to a biotic blast. Jack stood behind the enemy and threw another biotic shock wave down Shepard's way taking out the rest of the LOKI Mecs.

Shepard, Tali, and Reegar stopped firing. "Is that Jack said Tali."

"Shepard I thought that was you. Are you coming, or what?" Shepard came out of cover followed by Reegar, and then Tali.

"She is on our side right? I was on my last thermal clip." Asked Reegar.

Shepard looked at Reegar. "Which clips are you using?" Asked Shepard.

"Theirs only one type." Replied Reegar.

Shepard tossed Reegar his spare. "Don't throw that clip away, it's heat sinked. Tali give him your spare." Ordered Shepard.

Tali pulled her spare and fast walked up to Reegar. "They recharge on their own, and have twice the clip capacity. Put this in your other gun." Said Tali.

"Well this would have been nice to have back on the flotilla. I wonder how many men this could have saved." Replied Reegar.

"A gift from Garrus." Informed Shepard.

They met up with Jack leaning against the corner of where the hostiles had been coming from. Chatikka returned to Tali, and shut down. "It's about time Shepard." Said Jack. Jack had her hair grown out and was wearing more cloths then usual, not exactly like the vision, but close to it.

"I see you took my advice on the hair." Replied Shepard.

"Yeah it looks good doesn't it. You want a piece?" Said Jack.

"No he does not Jack." Said Tali answering for Shepard.

"You let your girl talk for you now Shepard, damn I go away, and you get whipped. So I see you went native. Alliance dumps you, and so you join up with the Quarians. Where's my boy Garrus, is he still around or did he leave you to?" Asked Jack.

"He's around. In fact most of the team is. What are you doing here?" Asked Shepard.

"I saw a shuttle come down, figured it was you, and decided this was the perfect chance to strike. A Large Geth Mec came walking around the corner as big as a atlas. The team raised their guns.

"Hostiles detected Engaging." Said the Geth Mecs raising its guns.

"Whoa, whoa, stop Metal head their friends, well most of them." Said Jack throwing up a biotic barrier, blocking both the team and Metal head."

"Jack where did you get that thing?" Asked Shepard Shouting.

"It's one of Cerberus's newest toy, do you like it." Said Jack Smiling

"If its Cerberus how did you get it to work for you?" Asked Tali.

"They cast the poor thing out, and I rescued him." Replied Jack

"Maybe they threw him out for a reason." Said Shepard.

"I know why they threw him out. He went berserk, when they first activated him. Ripped two heavy Mecs in half and decapitated the entire north wing of the facility, before they finally gunned him down out side." Informed Jack

"Jack rescued me." Said Metal Head.

"That thing can actually talk?" Said Tali

"It's got a full vocabulary. He doesn't say much though. He's still learning when to talk." Informed Jack.

"How did you get him working Jack, last I knew you destroy things, not fix them?" Asked Shepard.

"I took it to some Salarians, and had them do a repair job, and a little tweaking to the code. You know why those guard took off from the east wing?" Asked Jack.

"Let me guess. Metal Head." Replied Shepard.

"I will destroy all Cerberus." Said Metal head.

"You wait for me, and I get to kill The Illusive man." Said Jack pointing her finger up in the air at him.

"Jack look I'd like to stay here and chat, but we came here to blow up this place." Said Shepard

"Good because that's was exactly my plan." Replied Jack.

"We're also looking for something else. A Infiltration Mecs for EDI."

"You mean Cerberus cheer leader approves of that."

"No, actually She's gone. I shot her point blank in the head."

"No shit. good for you Shepard."

"Look we need to get moving we can talk about it all on the Normandy."

"Right I know where the EDI bots are, so I'll go pick it up. Where's the rally point?"

"Here I'll send it to your omni tool. By chance do you have a map of the facility?"

"Yeah, hear you go." both Jack and Shepard traded omni tool data. "Alright lover boy, go blow this place. Come on Metal head. Jack and Metal head walked off."

"I can't believe Jack." Said Tali.

"Me neither. We need to move though." Shepard looked at his new map, and found the central computer. "Alright come on people." Shepard lead the team down the walk way the Mecs and Cerberus had come from. Eventually becoming engaged by Cerberus, and more Geth and LOKI Mecs, just shy of reaching the larger west wing. They're just using the security Mecs for cannon fodder." Said Shepard.

"Like you said it does matter, we have to keep moving." Replied Reegar the team pushed forward, breaking the Cerberus line and pushing into the west wing door. A hall was all that separated them now from the west wing. As they opened the door several automated turrets fired on them. Shepard was bombarded by bullets as they backed away from the door. One round went through his barriers and hit him in the waist. Shepard tripped and fell side ways onto the floor.

"Shepard." called out Tali. The doors had closed and Tali ran to check on him. "Where are you hit?"

"In the waist." Shepard leaned his head back and grunted. "Look theirs nothing you can do just help me back up." Said Shepard.

"Don't do that to me again." Said Tali pulling Shepard to his feet.

"I won't. Think you can hack those turrets?"

"Just give me a second, and don't bleed out."

"I won't."

"She's one hell of a women aye Shepard." Said Reegar.

"You don't know the half of it Reegar." Replied Shepard.

"Okay I got the turrets we can go." informed Tali.

Shepard and the team moved out the door the turrets, where indeed hacked. Shepard limped, and they moved by the turrets. The west wing had a long path that ran the center of it and led straight to the central computer. Cerberus had already set up with the full assortment of their men. Several soldier with metal shields others with the harder clear ones. The only soldier not there appeared to be the phantoms. The team quickly took to cover, Shepard forgot about his limp very quickly. The team engaged the hostile Cerberus soldiers. Shepard threw several grenades behind the shielded soldiers preferably the glass shielded soldiers. As they cleared the soldiers, Geth Mecs seem to take there place as if the Cerberus soldiers had been considered more replaceable then the Mecs.

"Damn it Shepard, their is just so many of them." Said Reegar."

"It doesn't matter, keep fighting, and push forward." Replied Shepard. Shepard led the charge against the Mecs, and what remained of the Cerberus Soldiers. Eventually beating through the Geth Mecs, and reaching the central computer room door which was locked. The door was deep in a hollowed out part of the wall, allowing them to all cram inside behind cover, the Geth Mecs filled in behind them back the way came. "Tali get that door Open." Shouted Shepard.

"I'm working on it, just keep them off of me." Replied Tali. Tali started hacking the door, Shepard and Reegar engaged the Geth Mecs. A large Geth Mec, like Metal Head came out from around a corner. firing into the hall. Reegar quickly turned around and yanked Tali down behind cover. The rounds bombarded the the door where Tali stood. "Thanks Reegar."

"Just doing my job ma'am. What do we do now Shepard?" Asked Reegar.

"You stay down while I nuke the bastard." Answered Shepard. Shepard pulled out his nuke and started to charge it before he even stood up. Shepard stood up and fired the nuke nailing the the large Geth Mec. The resulting explosion wiped out the Geth Mec. "Tali get back on the door, and get us in." Additional Geth Mecs filled into the area along with YMIR Mecs.

"Okay got the door." Said Tali. Tali pulled her weapon and opened the door, to be met by additional Cerberus forces bunkered down inside. The team pushed into the room, up some stairs to a over looking room, wiping out the remaining Cerberus forces. Reegar sealed the door while Tali moved to the central computer.

"Tali can you shut down the Mecs?" Asked Shepard.

Tali started working on the computer. "I can't do anything about the Geth Mecs, they're fully autonomous , but I can shut down security and the heavy YMIR Mecs." Answered Tali.

"What about turning them on each other." Suggested Reegar. Reegar looked out the observation window in the room, and the Mecs hammered the glass. Reegar quickly jumped back.

"Good idea." Said Shepard.

"Shepard stood there, looking at the blood pouring from his wound, he had aggravated it, and the medi gel his suit was injecting read low, on his omni tool. Shepard then heard a noise be hind himself, one of the Cerberus rifles had been kicked. Shepard turned slinging is arm around activating his omni blade, slashing into a decloaking Phantom's sword, breaking it. Shepard quickly pulled his Carnifex pistol and fired several times into the Phantom. Tali turned, and so did Reegar at the sound of the sword breaking watching Shepard Shoot the phantom. The Phantom fell to the ground laying there. Shepard bent down to look and pulled the helmet off the now dead Phantom. The Phantom had Reaper tech running all through it like back on mars.

"What the hell is that." Said Reegar walking over to Shepard.

"It's Reaper tech." Answered Shepard. Tali stumbled for a moment knocking several items off the work space.

"Tali you Okay." Asked Shepard.

"Yeah, just got a massive flash of memories. I almost have it, just let me download the data, and I'll trigger the self destructed." Gun fire between the Mecs could be heard out side of the central computer room. "Got it." Said Tali.

"Self destruct in ten minutes. The facility has been compromised." Said the facility VI.

"Okay lets go." Said Shepard. The team took off down the stairs and out of the central control room. The team ran by the Mecs as they fought with each other. As they ran Shepard accessed his comm. "Garrus this place is gonna blow in ten minutes. I want you to bug out to the rally point in five." Said Shepard on the comm.

"Roger that Shepard. Just cleaning up a few Cerberus troops. A couple of them made it to the door." Replied Garrus.

Thanks for the update Garrus. As the team ran Shepard saw a large Geth Mecs blow to YMIR Mec apart with one shot each, and then Grab another one, ripping it into two pieces. "Holly shit did you just see that." Said Shepard.

"Yeah lets not get cought by one of them." Shepard, Tali, and Reegar battled through to the exit just as Garrus was pulling out. The team ran from the facility threw the woods to the rally point. The facility exploded." They reached the shuttle debris was falling from the sky all over the area. Shepard leaned against the shuttle and slid to the ground. Tali ran to Shepard. "Are you okay? What do you need me to do?" Asked Tali Concerned.

"I'm fine my suits just out of medi gel."

"Here take some of mine."

"No, it's not the same. I'll be fine. I just need to." Shepard tried to stand up and tali Shoved him back down against the shuttle.

"Don't you dare no me right now I'll go get some out of the shuttle."

Garrus came walking out of the woods a few moments later. "Shepard what happened?" Said Garrus running over to Shepard.

"I took one in the waist. I'm out of medi gel, I need to get back to the Normandy." Answered Shepard.

"Then lets get you on the shuttle, and go." Said Garrus.

"We can't we have to wait for Jack." Replied Shepard.

"Jack?" Said Garrus questioningly.

"She helped us in the facility we can't leave her behind."

"And you can't sit around and die. Their no medi gel in the shuttle. We don't even know if she made it out. Garrus and Reegar can wait around for her I want you to get fixed up now." Said Tali concerned. Tali pulled Shepard to his feet, and walked Shepard over to the shuttle door.

"I just know your not leaving me behind." Came Jacks voice as she stepped out of the woods with Metal head carrying a crate. Shepard and Tali turned around.

"It figures you show up. My head ache was almost gone." Shouted Garrus.

"Oh you know you want a piece of this Garrus. To bad you fucked up your face." Replied Jack.

"No thanks I have a girl friend now. What's with the Mec?"

"You want to know, you'll have to charm it out of me. Jack patted the side of Garrus's face. So what's this Shepard, I leave you four five minute and you try and bleed out on me. What part about hooking up do you not understand." Said Jack.

"Sorry I can't help it, all those tattoos where giving me a hell of a head ache. Is that the infiltration Mecs. Asked Shepard.

"Yeah you ass, now you want to go before you bleed out."

"What are you going to do with Metal Head."

"Metal head can fold up. Jack turned around. You can fold up right?" Asked Jack.

"No. I can not." Answered Metal head.

"Shit." Jack started pacing. "Shepard we've got to figure out a way to get him to the Normandy. I'm not leaving without him." Said Jack.

"Jack we don't have anyway to get him to the Normandy. And theirs not another clearing big enough for the Normandy for at least ten klicks. it'll take him forever to get there.

"Damn you Shepard." Jack walked over to metal head. "Hey listen buddy I can't take you with me." Said Jack.

"Why not?" Asked Metal head.

"Your too big Metal head. Jacks voice started to crack. Now you remember those nice Salarians who put you back together. I want you to go back to them, and stay there. One day I'll come back for you okay."

"I understand."

"And remember you don't like water so no walking through it okay."

"We will not."

"And what do we do when we see Cerberus."

"Destroy Cerberus."

"Then you laugh at them okay." Jack walked completely over to Metal head and hugged a leg.

"Jack You are making water."

"Sorry I'm just gonna miss you, be good okay." Jack backed away tears in her eyes and walked into the shuttle.

The team loaded the crate, and boarded the shuttle. The shuttle took off. The team sat in the shuttle. Jack continued to cry. "Jack I'm sorry." Said Shepard.

"Just leave me alone Shepard." Replied Jack hostilely. Jack got out of her seat, and stared out the window. Jack watched as metal head walked in the direction of the Salarians.

"Jack when we come around here again, we'll pick him up."

Jack walked back over to her seat, after losing sight of Metal head and sat back down. "He was just a pain in the ass anyway."

"No he wasn't jack. He was like you, someone miss understood, the out cast of society. He was your friend jack. Theirs nothing wrong in missing him."

"Thanks Shepard."

/
Illusive mans head Quarters.
/

Illusive man Sat in his Chair. "So I see we have Shepard's attention. Leek some information about a coupe attempt on Alliance Parliament ." Said Illusive man

"Would you like me to intercept him there?" Asked Miranda.

"No I want you to frame him even further, drive him out of all council space. This will press the Quarians harder."

"Wouldn't it be more prudent to assassinate a councilor of another race then?"

"Baby steps first Miranda. We need to give plenty of reason for the Alliance to turn that ion cannon on the Quarians. The others won't even suspect it when we use it on them. I want you to arrange for Hackett to be the target. He'll be the biggest opposition once he's reinstated."

"What makes you so sure he'll come back to the Alliance."

"He's a man of action Miranda the Reapers will call him back. Make sure Shepard is there during the execution. Act like your protecting Hackett, and then when your sure the camera is dead. Put one in his head."

"Shepard or Hackett?"

"Hackett."

"Then we assassinate a councilor?"

"haha, yes Miranda then we assassinate a councilor."

Writers note: I found the end here to be extremely sad. I teared up. By the way Jack is not being a slut, she's was just having fun. To get a look at metal head Check out my FB page James Shepard Metal Head is not anywhere near the intelligence of the Geth.