A/N
It has been a good while hasn't it? Well, here is chapter ten of Homeward.
Enjoy.
Chapter 10: Against the Tide
Everything died at that moment. All that he had worked for, each plan he had toiled over died the moment Legion dropped dead. As both machine and Quarian dropped to their knees, Kerris screamed as he looked into the void that was Legions optics. He could feel something moving in the recesses of his mind. It was the howling sound of what had been temporarily shut down by his encounter with Tali. It was back.
"We told you this would happen, Kerris" said the darkness that was sharing his mind. His shadow's voice always had this disjointed keening that reminded him of shaving metal, but deepened by a long metal pipe.
"No, I can't let you come back. The consequences..."
"You can't ignore this. They want you dead. The crew of The Normandy want you out of the way. If they really cared, would they have let Legion die? Do not fool yourself"said the voice calmly. Kerris was now hovering over Legion's still form, trying to hold onto his friend's memory. Tears fell down his cheeks as a cold breeze began to pick up. A storm was coming.
"I don't want to believe that. Shepard did what he had too" mumbled the cyborg.
"It is time, Kerris. We need to discuss something very important. It is why we are here"
"I know what you want..." mumbled Kerris. He knew his time had finally come. There was no escape from his torment, for things were just beginning.
"You know the bargain we have. We must take them all out, then leave this place and return home to Arvuna. It is there, we shall begin the true fate of this wretched little galaxy!" said the shadow.
"We spare Tali. That has always been the arrangement!" pleaded Kerris hoping to keep the shadow in check. A low rumbling was heard that seemed to envelope him as his world went to darkness.
"Then let us talk"
Kyson's POV
"Thank you, Legion" said Kyson somberly as Kerris howled in rage before falling silent. The cyborg was still on his knees hovering over his dead friend who sacrificed not just his life, but his entire consciousness. Legion's soul was obliterated to give an entire race sentience.
Tali began to take a few steps forward hoping to help her brother, but Shepard laid a hand on her shoulder.
"He needs time Tali, follow me" said John gently leading her back to the rest of the team.
"I need to make sure he is gonna pull through Shepard. He's my brother" said Tali in protest.
"There is nothing you can offer, it's on Kerris' shoulders from here" said Beni. Tali nodded wanting to go back to Kerris who was quietly sobbing over Legion's corpse.
"Legion gave up his all. More than any of us ever have. He is a damn hero" said Garrus with admiration.
"Damn right he did. He will not be forgotten. His name shall be put on the memorial on the Normandy for he was truly one of us" said Shepard. Tali sighed before flexing her arms.
"Despite his loss, I want to thank all of you" said Tali looking each of her team mates in the eye.
"My people owe you everything. I have a home world to come back too…" the Quarian trailed off.
"Was there any doubt? Come on Tali, your two best buddies in the galaxy are here. John Shepard and of course me, Garrus Vakarian" smirked the Turian.
"I know, thank you guys" said Tali who sat down on the ground. Kyson shrugged, happy for an opportunity to get off his feet. The whole team sat down while Kyson produced a flask of whiskey. After a few passes in silence except Tali, they all began to relax a bit. Even Garrus slugged back a shot.
"So, not to complain or anything, but are we waiting for something?" asked Luke.
"Yeah, the Admirals have our location and I want to meet with them" said John.
"In that case" muttered Kyson as he brought out his board. He let it hover a few feet off the ground and promptly laid down on it.
"Lazy ass" smiled Beni.
"Hey, don't be mad at him for thinking ahead" smiled Shepard. But it was not an easy smile after their loss. Kyson just stayed quiet as he watched the high altitude clouds swirl around as dusk began to fall on Rannoch. Now that this was over it was time to get back to the big fight. Earth. He feared going back for more than just losing his life. It was his home, being burned to the ground as people were slaughtered or harvested. Could he come back the same after witnessing such a thing? He strongly doubted it.
"So Tali, where are you going from here?" asked Luke. Kyson heard John groan in protest.
"I'm figuring that out now. Actually…I'll be back" said Tali as she got up and walked away. Kyson stayed staring at the clouds but made sure to listen where her footfalls went too.
"Damn it Luke, that's for her to discuss with Kyson. Then Shepard. She just got her home back and you have to go and make things tougher" chided Benalia. Luke grunted in response. Kyson rolled his eyes before rolling off his board.
"Thanks Kyson" said Shepard without even asking what he was doing. It was obvious.
"She just almost got fried by a Reaper. Watched the almost near destruction of her people and got a fabled home world back. She has a lot on her plate guys" said Kyson who stood properly on his board.
"If you need help. You know who has your back" said Garrus.
"I got this" he replied before gliding off gently in the direction Tali had walked off. He was thankful for the board for his broken nose along with a new bullet wound on his right calf hurt like hell.
"Kyson, wait a moment" said Luke who got up. Kyson waited for his dad to catch up. Luke looked along the ridge Tali was walking along before turning back to his son.
"Look I'm sorry about that one. Just wanted to make sure you two are going to be awright" said the old Marine. Kyson snorted in irritation causing blood to run freely from his nose again.
"Ya I figured that would be your response. Look son, I know you hate my damn guts for everything that has happened over the years" said Luke. The N7 founder waited for Kyson to respond but all he got was silence. Kyson wasn't going to give the old bastard the closure he wanted. He hadn't earned it. With no reply forthcoming Luke sighed.
"You do know I'm proud of you doncha? I watched my sons change the fate of an entire planet and two races today. John has taken you under his wing while you helped him when he needed ya. Shit I guess what I'm trying to say is if Kevin was still…" Luke was cut off by Kyson grabbing his father by his suit collar.
"Don't fucking go there, or you will wish I had left that Reaper alive" snarled Kyson.
"Kyson. It's in the past son. You have bigger things to worry about" said Luke as he motioned to where Tali had moved out of view. Kyson let go of his father with a snarl.
"I'm sorry son" said Luke with a grimace of internal fury.
"Bullshit" snapped Kyson.
"Look, we have to deal with our lives with resolution: head on. I know you feel like this galaxy has forsaken you. And it has. But that's life Kyson. You reap what you have sown. Then, you make what you can with it" said Luke. Kyson kicked on the thruster to his board leaving his father behind. One thing the old man had right was that he had other things to worry about.
The next few minutes were spent looking for his bond mate. Tali was climbing down a rock fall trying to get to a beach made of coarse red rock. The fading light of Tikkun reflected off the blue waters giving a surreal depth to the tiny inlet. He gently glided the board to match her elevation.
"You could just use the elevator" said Kyson as he held out a hand.
"I hate elevators. I hate a lot of things right now to add to it" said Tali as she ignored his help.
"I know. So do I, but it's not the end" said Kyson trying to get her to open up.
"Yes, it is. It's fucking over and I'm angrier than when I started this whole thing" snapped Tali. Her lack of attention caused her to lose her grip on the rock surface. Tali yelped as she fell only to grunt when Kyson caught her.
"Anger is a dangerous thing" said Kyson as he set the board down on the beach. (Against the Tide: by Celldweller)
Tali stormed out into the water with clenched fists. She took out her shotgun and began firing out over the ocean with no target in mind. Kyson just stood there not sure what to do. She had just gotten her planet back. She had helped orchestrate the return of her people, but he was left pretty angry himself. Kyson walked into the water after Tali had let the gun drop into the water as if giving up on something inside.
[I finally get what you are saying now that we are knee deep side by side]
"I hate this planet! Dammit, it's not worth the lives we lost. When will all of this stop, Kyson?" asked Tali as he gently grasped one of her hands.
[The storm clouds are circling above us, as we struggle against the tide]
"When the Reapers are dead at our feet. When organics take their rightful place on top" answered Kyson. Tali wrapped him in a hug as the small waves lapped out their thighs.
"Then what did we do here then? Prove how parasitic we are? You heard the Reaper, we almost did what those damn machines do. We would have destroyed ourselves!" said Tali
[I feel your grip firm on my shoulder but, this fear in my head won't subside]
"But we didn't. We all overcame that fate. We didn't make the mistakes of our fathers Tali. We won this" said Kyson proudly as he swept an arm to display the oceans of Rannoch.
"But that was just one Reaper, one planet. There are thousands more ripping our galaxy apart. What the hell can we do about that?" she asked.
[The patiently circle around us, as we hold out…]
"Kyson, we have been left with nothing to hope for" said Tali finally. Kyson held her back with eyes staring wide into hers. He couldn't believe what he was hearing! From the woman he had always know to pull through no matter the odds.
"Tali, you don't believe that! This isn't you!" he said still astonished.
[Oh father why have they forsaken me? You warned me that they would]
"I don't have it in me anymore Kyson. I lost my father, then you. All because of this planet. Now I have to lead my people and make sure our home is ready for our return" said Tali. Kyson's gut did a flip making him want to wretch. He wanted to ask why? Why did she have to stay? She could leave her ungrateful people behind but what would she gain? A month? A week maybe of fighting the Reapers before they were taken out? Hell even he would rather die at home on Earth, she had every right to stay.
"I, understand" said Kyson as he let go of her.
[Because it's passing down the bloodline, it's spoken and misunderstood]
Tali looked out over the ocean quietly as Kyson looked down at the discarded shotgun he had given Tali. The ocean had grown calm and the reflection showed him the cliff behind him. A figure was watching them. Kyson turned around to see his father with his arms crossed. The old Marine shook his head before walking away. Not like this. Not after all we have done!
[We're losing light and strength of will. The darkened depths beckoning still. Then we hold out, against the tide]
"Here" said Kyson as he thrust his hover board out to Tali. She placed a hand on it, but looked at him.
"I can't…" she began.
"You will" said Kyson as he left the board in her hand as he turned his back on her and walked away on the beach. Tali stayed silent as he walked away for several minutes before he turned around a bend. Kyson was trying not to break as he came to terms with leaving Tali behind. A distant rumbling made him look down the beach. Dark clouds same as the pitch of space began to roll in his direction. Streaks of lightning dotted the landscape then out into the water. He lit a cigg as he kept walking. With each step he could feel the growing throb of his broken nose, while every other reminded him of his flesh wound. The gunshot wound was now burning wildly from the salty water.
[Another storm you're left to fight alone, Remember son you're reaping what you've sown. Under the waves we're sinking like a stone. I'm sorry son, you're reaping what you've sown]
First, came the wind blowing cool air filled with sand that threatened to blind him, but he simply slid his goggles down. Next, came the cold winds as the temperature dropped from thirty-two to twenty degrees Celsius, but his suit kept the sudden chill at bay. Kyson just hunched his shoulders as he barreled his way along the beach furious that he had helped save an entire planet only for it to take everything from him. Was everything in life a constant give and let go policy?
[Another storm you're left to fight alone. Remember son, you're reaping what you've sown. Under the waves we're sinking like a stone. I'm sorry son you're reaping what you've sown]
Now the storm was hitting Kyson full force with driving rain seeping past his suits collar while bright flashes of lightning blinded him on a repeated basis. Kyson paused as he looked back along the beach from where he left Tali. The way was obstructed by heightening waves and falling rocks.
Just more obstacles keeping me from moving in the right direction. Here I am, angry and disappointed once again with no idea of where to go. But, why?
The question hung in his mind causing him to wipe the water away from his almost bare scalp trying to figure himself out. His dad was right damn it. He had to keep going, no matter what. So what if his life had been an emotional roller coaster? Did that stop anyone else? It did for one person he knew.
"Kyson, this way. It's time you see what awaits you" said Kevin from behind him. The young Marine looked behind to see his brother with a warm smile and an out stretched hand.
"It's okay, you have had your time. Moms waiting" said Kevin as the storm howled around them.
"No! I'm not done yet!" screamed Kyson as he ran back down the beach.
[You're reaping what you've sown!]
Kevin screamed in rage as Kyson ran full tilt with the elements bashing against him. His bullet wound burned like never before causing him to stagger frequently. Kyson looked behind him to see Kevin frothing at the mouth in fury of being denied his victory. Kyson had made up his mind. He would not go to Kevin. He was everything his fears were.
[You're reaping what you've sown!]
Kyson dug in deep as he sprinted full tilt down the sand causing him to take breath in deep heaves. His sides were cramping. His nose pulsed from the bruising but he just kept running. He had made it around one of the many bends along the shore only to see exactly what he wanted to.
Tali was running full tilt in his direction against the wind as she dodged small rocks being dislodged on the cliff above. Her face plate had been removed in defiance of her containment!
"Kyson!" Tali shouted as they got near. Kyson's heart was pounding in his chest as he made it to her. She ran right into him sinking her lips on his. He could feel the rain water running down her face; the rain collecting on their lips as the storm raged around them.
[We're slowly losing ground and hope is hard to maintain. We know the prayers we prayed. Feel lost like tears in the rain, the water is pulling us down, and the moon's eclipsing the sun. The ending that we knew would come has finally begun"
"I'm not staying here! I'm not going to leave the Normandy! It's my home! With you! Our place is together!" shouted Tali over the storm. Kyson buried her lips in his once again as he accepted his position in life on that beach. He would stay by her side whether she stayed or went. It didn't matter anymore.
[You're reaping what you've sown! It's finally begun, you're reaping what you've sown!]
Ending the kiss he laughed as Tali stared at him naturally without her visor on. A smile was forming. The lightning highlighting he every beautiful feature, those iridescent eyes always burning in brilliance.
"I know! We did it Tali! We saved Rannoch! We fucking did it babe! Damn it I Love you!" laughed Kyson as Tali tackled him into the surf.
[I'm sorry son you're reaping what you've sown. You're reaping what you've sown…]
"Hell yes we did! From now on we carve our own path in the stars Kyson! Us and no one else!" said Tali finally celebrating what they had accomplished that day. Kyson laughed as the storm subsided to a constant heavy rain. Tali helped him up as they settled down their emotions. Tali put her visor back on while Kyson took a deep breath.
"I'm glad you changed your mind" said Kyson honestly.
"I'm surprised you didn't just say no right off and whisk me away. I was really hoping for that" said Tali with a hint of sarcasm. Kyson chuckled a bit not sure how to respond so he just kept walking with Tali in hand. As he looked around he saw something on the water. Kevin was standing on the water smiling evilly.
"Soon brother, I will have you" said Kevin. Kyson looked away quickly.
"What's wrong?" asked Tali.
"Just my mind playing tricks on me is all" said Kyson. He made sure to look straight ahead, but despite the moment of deserved euphoria, he couldn't help but be apprehensive. He was still dealing with his brother. It was time for him to take care of that as soon as he got back to the Normandy.
[This sorrow weighs down on my shoulders, this fear getting harder to hide. You'll leave me alone in this darkness. Left to hold out…against the tide]
"Here we are, where we came down. I'll take that elevator ride now" said Tali happily as she brought out the board. Kyson hopped on as she flew them both back to the team who was busy taking cover with the relocated Geth Transport. As soon as they landed Shepard came out from underneath. Most of the blood had been washed off by the rain leaving a nasty gash above his left eye that had swollen up.
"Do you like Pina Coladas?" asked John causing Kyson to shrug of the last bits of doubt from his mind.
"Yes, and I got caught in the rain" replied Kyson with a smile as Shepard beckoned them under the craft where Garrus was busy talking with Beni.
"Where is Kerris?" asked Kyson. John looked back to the cliff where Legion had given his life. Kerris was still huddled over the corpse exactly as he was before.
"Keelah, has he moved?" asked Tali.
"No, but he sways every few moments. We'll help in in a few. The rest of the admirals will be here any second" said Shepard. Kyson walked over to where Garrus who was leaning under the craft.
"I'm telling you Beni, as soon as we get back to the Citadel I'm bolting right to the hospital. The waiting is killing me" said Garrus quietly.
"It always does hun. Teagann is more than likely working this very moment" comforted the Asari. Garrus nodded but spotted Kyson.
"How's Tali doing?" asked the Turian.
"Better. We had to figure some things out" said Kyson.
"She staying with us?" asked Beni looking hopeful.
"Yup. She's gonna help us out" said Kyson. Garrus looked him in the eye with an intent gaze.
"And if she hadn't?" asked Garrus bluntly. Kyson shrugged his shoulders. He lit a cigg with a slight smile.
"Then you wouldn't have seen my ass until it was time to take back Earth bud" said Kyson bluntly.
"Then you got lucky with the easy position. You didn't have to make the choice" said Garrus.
"I know. Ever since joining the Normandy, everything has seemed to revolve around it: choice" mused Kyson.
"Yeah, funny how that works. Alright, get you shit straight. Here come the Admirals" said Garrus loud enough for everybody to hear. Kyson looked out into the rain and saw a transport ship of Turian design land thirty meters away. He saw the other four Admirals walk out the rear hatch with heads held high. Also, Kal Reegar walked out with squared shoulders. Obviously the Marine was tense.
"You kids did it! Bless the ancestors you did it! I never should have doubted you!" said Han with a victorious boom in his voice.
"Just doing a job right sir" said John with a warm smile. The other admirals gave their thanks, even Xen albeit sheepishly.
"You raised two tough bastards Luke. You better have some of your N7 train my people after this" said Han grasping Kyson's fathers hand firmly. Luke laughed loudly as he brought Han in for a deep hug.
"God, to think we dreamed of doing this back in our younger days! I'm glad to be here to see it through brother" replied Luke. As the two older men laughed giving praises to Rael and others Kyson had never heard of, he looked over to Kal.
"Hey boss, how's it going?" he asked with a smile. Despite everything this was a truly joyous occasion.
"It's going, but we lost a good number of people. It's kind of hard to see things for what they are you know?" asked Kal who was very downtrodden.
"I know. But let's take it one step at a time right now" he replied grasping his friends shoulder to help reassure the Quarian.
"When are you going to practice what you preach?" asked Kal. Kyson stared back at the Marine not sure what to say at the sudden attack until Kal began to snicker a bit. A smile began to form on the engineer before both men were laughing out right.
"Hell if I know!" laughed Kyson. After a few minutes he backed away as Garrus began to talk to Reegar. But as he went to find Tali he ran into Shala. She waved him down as she shuffled over to him.
"Thank you Kyson, for all you have done to help us despite our mistrust" said Shala frankly. Kyson nodded slowly understanding the thank you he had just gotten was true. It had taken many a trial to get it.
"You know why I did it. Looks like you had a rough time of it. Has it been tended?" he commented pointing to her damaged right leg.
"Yes, my ship crashed down during the fight. We only lost five crew. We were lucky on many fronts" she replied. Kyson smiled at the good news before excusing himself. He was sure Shepard wanted to hammer out support logistics from the Quarians for when they went back to Earth. But as he went to light a cigg he saw something metal moving towards him. It was a Geth Prime, walking calmly towards the party.
"Heads up people. We have company" he said into the comm hurriedly as he placed a hand on the handle of his shotgun.
"Stand down Kyson, I doubt it's here to kill us" said John who had come up behind him. Kyson relaxed a bit but left his hand on his gun. The Prime walked right up to them capturing the silence of all those present.
"Commander. I wish to thank you for ending the war with the Quarians" said the Geth Platform which nodded slightly in gratitude. Kyson cocked an eye picking up on the display of emotion from the machine. Legion had been right. They must now be truly sentient.
"You're welcome. I just wanted peace to finally be here. What of Legion?" Shepard asked with hope in his voice. The Geth looked away calculating its response.
"I'm sorry Commander. Legion sacrificed itself to let all Geth gain intelligence. We are now individual. I am now my own entity. Legion will be honored for its sacrifice" said the Prime. Kyson looked back at Kerris who was twitching slightly over Legions body still lost in grief.
"Thank you" said Shepard.
"Admiral Raan, have you determined where you wish to settle first?" asked the Geth.
"Yes...the southern continent was great for agriculture if I remember correctly" said Shala nervously.
"Very well. We shall begin transferring the proper resources to that region. This is the frequency you can reach me from. I will be awaiting instruction to help ease the settlement of your people" said the Prime. Shala nodded as she got the link on her Omni-tool. The Prime walked off leaving everyone in a hushed mood.
"Well, I never thought I would be working with them after all this time. Job well done I guess" said Garrus who broke the silence.
"Guess so. Everyone done here?" asked John looking around at all of the faces.
"No. We still have Kerris" reminded Tali. Kyson nodded to John who glanced at him. He would help take care of this. Kyson began to walk towards the cyborg who was still hunched over Legions body. Rain still poured from the sky putting out his cigg, but as he got ready to lay a hand on the cyborg he stopped. He looked at legions body mostly covered by Kerris and felt a massive pain of regret. If he had learned to keep his cool back on the Neema this end could have been avoided long ago. This one was on him. Legion was added to the deck of his guilt to be played on his mind when he was most vulnerable.
"I'm sorry" he said as he laid a hand on Kerris who didn't even notice him.
"Kerris, we can lay him to rest as he deserves. But, we have a war to get back too" he said trying to stay collected. All he got was more silence. He stared at Kerris for a long thirty seconds before he saw something odd, a swirling pool of shadow was beneath them both. Then suddenly, low whispering entered his mind. Sounds he couldn't make out, but it sounded as if he was answering back but in a tongue unknown. He tried to pull away, nothing happened then a deep growl that matched his own emanated from his lips. A bright flash of light and the feeling of weightlessness followed as he was chucked back from the cyborg. Biting the ground hard again that day he rolled quickly, but staggered because of his injured leg.
"What the hell was that?" shouted Kal as all of the others came up to him. Winded, Kyson shook his head showing that he didn't know. But he would not take his gaze off of Kerris. What he saw made his gut churn in fear.
"By the spirits" muttered Garrus as a dark shadow that seemed to distort and flicker stood over Kerris. It reached down grabbing the mechanical Quarian under the arms.
"Do we have an accord, Kerris?" came the screeching yet deep voice of the shadow. How in the hell can it talk? Kyson heard many people gasp while others twitched not sure if they could believe what they were seeing. Normally I would be thankful people could see what I'm seeing, this is NOT one of those times. Kerris slowly gained his footing next to the shadow eyes still closed. In a distant voice, hollow yet full of something else Kyson couldn't place. Kerris spoke.
"Yes" was all that he said as his glowing Quarian eyes popped open to stare directly at Kyson. The hair on his neck stood on end as Kerris stared at him, in the hushed silence no one moved.
In one swift movement Kerris bounded right at Kyson as the shadow disappeared. The cyborg didn't howl in his usual insane rage. It was a concentrated hate that made its way to the young engineer. Kyson didn't know what to do. His energy spent, all he could muster was a halfhearted side step but a mechanical fist flew into his chest hurting his ribs. As Kyson fell he saw Kerris do something odd again. The cyborg seemed to shift in and out of shadow, almost as if the darkness was part of him. And in a blink of an eye Kerris was behind Shepard. Kyson watched wide eyed as the Commander who was reaching for his pistol was struck down hard into the ground.
Yells began to fill the air as Kerris made his way between them and bullet fire as the army of the cyborg, Kerris and the shadow, began to brutalize all that were present. Ashley had been bludgeoned in the leg along with the other Quarians being harassed. Warhammer in hand, Kyson tried to make sense of the outburst.
"Kerris! Stop this! It is over! Please stop, they will shoot you!" shouted Tali in desperation. Kyson tried with all of his might to get a grip on Kerris, but he was simply too damn fast. But something he did get was a pattern of sorts. The cyborg alternated between going after him, and whoever else was close. But it always came back to him. Kerris was not doing real harm as he phased in and out of the shadows, he seemed to be lost in a battle with the thing inside him. Kyson was about to get close to the cyborg who was punching Kal ferociously when Tali ran up and tackled him.
"Stop! Now!" she shouted in Kerris's face. Kyson along with the others began to circle in when Kerris used his one good arm and latched around Tali's throat. A look of confusion and fear was on her face that only Kyson could imagine as Kerris began to howl.
"No! I won't do it! I will not!" he screamed as he threw Tali away. Kyson was ready to plant his hammer through the bastard's skull when John came up behind Kerris. With one deft movement, John punched Kerris with all of his strength to the core of his cybernetics. An electrical pulse ran through the maniac causing his synthetic limbs to spasm uncontrollably before dropping to the ground unconscious.
"Put him in the shuttle" said John tiredly. Kyson was busy looking over Tali who seemed shocked with the whole situation.
"Grab Legion's body as well. He is coming with us, move out" snapped John getting things in motion. The flight back to the Normandy was silent for no one knew what had just happened. Kyson kept Tali by his side gently squeezing her hand now and again. She would squeeze back, but barely. The day had truly been off the charts. Once back on the Normandy, Kerris was properly secured while still unconscious.
"We need to take care of him now" said John sharply to the admirals. A unanimous agreement of a trial as soon as the cyborg was awake would be had. John looked at Kyson with a bloody face, deep bags under the eyes, and a scowl.
"Get to the med bay, I'll be along in a few" said John with a tone that held no argument. Kyson skipped any nod he might have given and hobbled away with Tali. The elevator opened up to reveal Dr. Chakwas who was grim faced. Legion's body was to be stored in the A.I. core until a proper ceremony could be given. But Liara ran out from behind her right to John.
Shepard, whose scowl lightened a bit as Liara ran into his arms, comforted her as his shoulders sagged. Then he passed out on the cargo bay floor. It had been a long day.
Thirty minutes later Kyson along with Shepard were on medical beds. It had taken Garrus along with Kal to get John up here. Chakwas was busy fussing over all of them who had gone on the mission but Shepard was just tired so he slept. Garrus had retired to his quarters leaving only Kyson and Tali awake.
"How's the medi-gel setting in?" asked Tali who had calmed down a bit, or brightened up depending on how you looked at it.
"Leg's doing better, getting hydrated thanks to the I.V. drip as well" he said with a soft smile. Tali ran a finger down his arm before finding his hand again.
"The mission wasn't the main cause for your dehydration. Your constant consumption of alcohol is what did it" said the doctor irritably as she worked at her desk. Kyson snorted making Chakwas look him dead in the eyes with scorn.
"I should let you bleed out next time, maybe the galaxy can get some of its cheap rail liquor back" she scoffed.
"Do it then..." he began to bristle with irritation but Tali put a finger to his lips.
"Shush, you have been drinking nonstop" said Tali with irritation in her voice as well. Kyson glanced between the two women and only had one option left.
"I'm going to take a nap" he said as he closed his eyes with a deep frown on his face.
"Child" quipped the doctor but Tali laid a hand on his head.
"I love you" she said softly. Kyson felt very tired all of the sudden as he opened up an eye to look into hers.
"I love you too" he mumbled through heavy lips. It was then he noticed that Tali had placed something in his drip line. Oh...he blacked out. He luckily didn't have any dreams just deep fuzzy black sleep. The sleep you get from good drugs. It was a blessing, a chemical blessing for his body. But mostly for his mind. When he woke up he first thought he was alone, but upon looking to his right he saw John sitting up in his bed with a cup of coffee.
"How do you feel?" asked John who was busy reading a data pad.
"Like a brick" said Kyson as he tried to sit up. But his muscles hurt so bad it was out of the question so he flopped back down. Weren't the drugs supposed to help with that?
"You were so wired up from adrenaline Karen had to have Tali sedate you" said John before another sip. Kyson's head pounded as he tried to focus.
"I don't think it would have been necessary to do that. I was almost about to drop as it was" he replied honestly. John put the pad down and chuckled a bit.
"When was the last time you slept without booze to help you?" asked John. Kyson snorted again.
"You answer that first. I've seen the ships stock disappearing quickly. Most of it whiskey which only you and I seem to tear through. And I have my own stash" said Kyson.
"Good point" said John knowing he had been caught. A few moments of silence went by before Kyson spoke up again.
"I don't know how I feel about what happened yesterday" he blurted out not able to keep all of the memories in his head anymore. John sighed loudly.
"Neither do I. I'm not sure what to make of the Reapers goals still. Then there is Kerris, fucking hell I'm tired of the cyborg" said John honestly.
"I hear ya. But I don't know what to do about it. Tali still cares for him" replied Kyson in defeat as he remembered Kerris's hand around Tali's throat. He had fought off the shadow but what now?
"Kyson, Tali has been out in the mess working nonstop with getting her people ready for landing on Rannoch. She has you to thank for this, and as much as I am loath to say this, she needs Kerris dead and out of her life. You hear me Kyson?" asked John in a cold tone. With all of his might Kyson pushed up off bed to look at a very calm looking Shepard. Many feelings mixed with impractical thoughts crossed the engineers mind but he came up blank with a solution.
"I hear you Commander" said Kyson formally showing that he fully understood. Shepard stared him down as the door opened with Garrus in his jeans, no shirt, walk in.
"Figured I'd drop in and check in on ya'll" said the Turian as he sat in the doctors chair. Kyson kept to himself as he stared out the window at the frantically gesturing form of Tali in the mess as she hovered over a terminal.
"Just waking up?" asked John. Garrus nodded as he leaned back into a comfortable position.
"What have you two been grumbling about in here?" asked the Turian.
"The fact that Kerris has to die" said John flatly. Garrus rolled his head to look at Tali, then Kyson.
"Agreed. So we gonna go to the Neema and pop a bullet in his head today in front of Tali to show how much we don't care about here? Or are we gonna do it all quiet, make it look like he had it coming for he surely does and let her weep as she comes to the conspiring murderers for comfort?" asked Garrus who seemed very cheeky for the situation. John sipped his coffee as Kyson looked out at Tali still. Garrus' sarcasm was scathing to say the least.
"Look I want the psychopath dead. I have the entire time. But what the hell are you doing by working things out behind Tali? She's one of my best friends dammit! So are you two" said Garrus.
"I don't like it either Garrus, but Kerris is too damn dangerous. He was useful for a short time but he is no longer needed. It comes down to numbers really" said John matter-of-factly as he began to read his data pad again ignoring them. Kyson felt odd hearing the commander being so damn cold. He agreed but the way John was shrugging off this problem was out of character. Kyson glanced at Garrus who looked very perturbed himself.
"John, you sound...never mind. Kyson, You able to move?" asked Garrus. Kyson looked around for all he had was boxers on.
"Tali already brought your clothes up" said John. Kyson found them on the floor next to his bed. Jeans, boots, black beater ready to go. Once ready Garrus led the way.
"I need to talk to you" said the Turian motioning to the main battery. Kyson had already started to drift towards Tali who upon sighting him waved but kept talking over the comm. Kyson felt very distant as Garrus tugged at him with a claw.
"She's busy. I know what will do us good. How 'bout some food?" asked Garrus. Kyson nodded as he shambled his stiff legs over to the kitchen. He opened up the fridge to see a large pot labeled 'Chili! By James' on it. All these years and people still cling on to post-it notes.
"Hey Jumper! Have some of my chili man! You look like you need it" said James coming over from the mess hall.
"Just saw that, what's the occasion?" asked Kyson as he was waved out of the way. James put the pot on the stove to re heat.
"Ah no occasion. Just know that when I get stressed I cook. Yeah I know funny right?" smiled James as he pulled out two bowls. Garrus was about to look for some food himself but James stopped him.
"That second bowl is for you compadre. I made dextro chili as well" said the marine.
"I appreciate the gesture..." said Garrus eyeing a second pot of dextro base chili James had made nervously.
"I knew you would. So I researched Turian Chili. Aaaaaand nothin. But I have improvised with tips on the net. Just let me know what you think before you criticize it?" asked James as he got the chili's going. Garrus looked longingly at the fridge before nodding.
"Awesome. So how bad was it down there?" asked James as he pulled out a cheap beer.
"Shitty. So very shitty" said Kyson as he refused a beer himself.
"You can say that again" mumbled Garrus.
"Veeery disssscriptivvveee...seriously, Shepard looks like he chewed on a lemon while Sparks over here is in warp drive. How bad is it?" asked Vega trying to get details.
"We took out a Reaper that was controlling the Geth. Also, Kerris went back to full maniac" said Kyson as he watched James shake his head.
"Well, we got Rannoch back for the Quarians" said James pointing out the light in the dark.
"Yeah, along with getting both Geth and Quarian support for the war. There are good things about the whole debacle" said Garrus. The chili was heating up causing Kyson's stomach to churn. He was really hungry, and the south -west style spices were getting to him. Even Garrus was smelling the air with less apprehension.
"That is good. Once the Reaper was dropped we were able to get contact from outside the system" said James as he began to serve the chili.
"Oh yeah? What's the word? The Reapers are gone and we can go home?" asked Kyson.
"Not quite. The Asari are beginning to really feel the heat Jumper. They are losing territory quick like. The war on Palaven is at a tipping point. Earth...I haven't heard. The Salarians are holding out surprisingly well from what Command was saying" said James. Kyson shrugged as he dug into his chili. And explosion of meaty flavor assaulted him causing him to almost feel human again. Garrus sniffed at his food before shoving the spoon in his mouth. Kyson saw a shocked look on the Turian's face.
"This..." Garrus groaned oddly before shoveling a few more bites into his mouth.
"Is damn fine" said Garrus. James was more than pleased to clean up, it was only two pots with more ready he had said. Once satisfied and cleaning was done, the two friends found themselves with beers in the main battery. But before Kyson could look away, he saw John staring him down with that same intense grimace. Hair stood on end again as he had passed. After a few swigs Kyson spoke up once alone with the Turian.
"I don't think you have me here for just a beer to wind down?" he asked knowing full well Garrus liked to talk things out one on one.
"I tried to get a hold of the hospital back on the Citadel. Comms traffic is jammed even for us. I don't like it Kyson. I helped bring down a Reaper in waiting to hear about Teagann" said Garrus in frustration.
"I know. The waiting is hard..." began Kyson.
"It's more than hard, it's damn infuriating. But I know I can't bring that up with Shepard now...not after walking in on that" Garrus's voice took on a worried tone as he referenced the conversation in the med bay.
"Yeah no kidding, that was not what I was expecting" he replied.
"Never has Shepard acted like that. This past mission was absolute hell but not in what everybody's view. We were too sloppy" said Garrus before slugging back some beer. Kyson frowned. They had done what they had too. It was a damn war!
"I don't follow Garrus" he replied trying to find faults in the last mission.
"Actually, ever since the Quarians showed up we all have gotten sloppy, slip-shod as you will. We had no focus Kyson. You know it better than most" said Garrus. Kyson looked into his friend's eyes trying to get an idea of what he was getting at.
"How is your brother affecting you Kyson?" asked Garrus directly after a few seconds.
"Shit" scoffed Kyson loudly as he lit a cigg. He looked around the room trying to focus on something else but was also unwilling to leave the room.
"You're right Garrus, we are a fuckin wreck. Hands down no argument, but that is gonna take time" he replied.
"How much?" snapped Garrus. Kyson frowned in response not enjoying being backed into a corner.
"No idea, it's not like I asked for this crap" replied Kyson.
"I know, but after you freaked out at the base, I think we all need a break don't you?" asked Garrus now defeated himself.
"Agreed, and I see what you're getting at. You once said that here we make a living on slim chances. But there are things that should be non-issues" said Kyson acknowledging that they were letting small things get to them.
"Exactly. We need to bring back some focus" said the Turian.
"Yup. But first, I need to talk to Tali. I said I would tell her about what's going on with me once this stuff with Rannoch was over" said Kyson. He wasn't looking forward to it, but he did promise.
"Hold off until this Kerris thing is sorted out. I have a feeling this isn't over yet" said Garrus. Kyson was about to refuse when he got a ping on his Omni-tool. After a quick scan he sighed.
"Put a shirt on, you and I are doing the report to Hackett" he said. He was a bit nervous about this one. He had several ideas of why he was doing this but shoved them away for later. Once ready they made their way to the QEC.
"I have Admiral Hackett ready Kyson" said EDI patiently. Kyson glanced at a relaxed looking Garrus.
"I just want to be in my room" growled Kyson.
"Agreed" chuckled Garrus. Kyson announced he was ready and in seconds Admiral Hackett was projected in front of him. The two friends gave sharp salutes.
"At ease gentlemen." said Hackett formally. After a few seconds of silence, Hackett spoke.
"Where is Shepard?" he asked bluntly. Kyson cleared his throat.
"He is still in the med bay recovering from his injuries. I was ordered to give the debriefing" he said firmly.
"Understood. I read Shepard's report. That was amazing what you guys pulled off down there. It's almost as if the secret to my problems is to throw Shepard's and Sorley's at them" said Hackett.
"Thank you sir, but we need much more than that" said Kyson.
"We now have the support of the Quarians, as well as the Geth" added Garrus to move things along. Hackett nodded.
"I am surprised as hell about both, but the Geth? Hell, I've lost friends to them. Never thought we'd be working with them. I have already gotten wind of two large Geth transports heading to the crucible. This will be a boon to our progress" said Hackett.
"I would imagine so. I believe we still have some unfinished business here sir. But we will be back at the Citadel to resupply in the next day" said Kyson.
"Hmm. Fair enough, I read up on what you did down there Kyson. I never thought anything would come of you being thrown in the N7 program in your condition. But I was wrong, most men would have failed down there" said Hackett causing Kyson to twitch having been reminded of his trouble in the N7 training.
"And you too Vakarian. You have been saving our asses for years now even if you're own government denied it. I'm glad you have been able to stick with us this far. Any interest in joining the alliance officially?" smirk Hackett.
"It's an honor sir, the thought has crossed the mind" said Garrus promptly.
"Very good, Hackett out" and with that, the Admiral signed off leaving the two of them in silence once again. This time Garrus spoke first.
"Back when you said 'we still have unfinished business'. Did John tell you to say that?" asked the Turian.
"No. John has relieved himself from duty and given me command" said Kyson strongly. Garrus looked at him with shock.
"This isn't right at all" mumbled Kyson's best friend.
"I know, it shouldn't be me, and John is just fine. He should be up and running...but, fuck me I made another promise" groaned Kyson.
"How many have you made to Shepard?" asked Garrus. Kyson smiled like an idiot.
"Too many"
One hour later
"Relax Kyson, John has full confidence in you" said Liara as the young N7 reached the galaxy map. He had been given instructions to finish taking care of the Quarians while the commander recuperated below. Everything was up to his discretion, something that did not sit well with him after the last time he had tried to help out the Quarians. From there he was to fly directly to the Citadel for resupplying.
"Thank you Liara, let's get this done shall we?" he asked as he looked at the galaxy map.
"Commander Shepard stands relieved. Lieutenant Commander Sorley has command" said EDI formally. Kyson took a deep breath before getting to it.
"Thank you EDI, Samantha, have we gotten any word from the Admiralty board on Kerris's trial?" he asked pointedly.
"Yes, they are waiting for our arrival now" said Traynor.
"Good. Joker, bring us to the Neema. We are about to finish this" said Kyson tiredly.
"En route now LT. Rendezvous in twenty" said Joker making Kyson nod slowly. He looked down at Garrus who was standing next to Liara.
"You two are going to be with me. Tali is going to be busy enough as it is. Liara, did you find anything on this Shadow life form at all?" he asked hoping for some solid answers. It had turned out the data pad John had been working on when he woke up was an entire report for him. Kyson had tried to figure out why now? Shepard did not look too bad things considering. The man had led through much worse. Stop asking those questions Kyson, you knew this day would come. John had asked him to basically be his next in line. Even the great Commander Shepard needs rest. I don't have to like it though.
"No Kyson. Nothing, but wild conspiracy theories about legends that don't add up. But after what you saw down there it could be anything" said Liara honestly.
"True enough. I plan on this to be a shit show; Kerris is only being held because he wants too. He could walk out of there if he so chose. Now let's find out why he's staying put" said Kyson. He wanted to be back in bed, but the Commander had made sure that was not the case.
"What about Tali, I'm sure she is going to want you with her. Hell, did you tell her you were in charge before the announcement?" asked Garrus.
"Nope, I bet she is on the elevator right now" he replied. In less than ten seconds, Kyson was proven right. Tali came out of the elevator flanked by his father who had a strange stoic look about him.
"Since when were you second in Command?" asked Tali bluntly. She only tended to do that when exhausted; with Kyson at least.
"Just now. We are a few minutes away from boarding the Neema, are you ready for what's about to happen?" asked Kyson refraining from a scowl the impending trial imposed. Tali stayed silent and for once mostly unreadable. Concerned, but with other issues at hand he turned to Traynor.
"How long have I been a board the ship?" he asked.
"Fourteen hours Lieutenant Commander" she replied. Kyson scratched at his chin before asking another question.
"How did the Normandy fair during the fighting?" he asked for this was a good time for a full accounting and systems check. He had no idea how long he would be gone.
"It was rough. I told the Commander about it and all. I may be a lab monkey, but it was a bit exciting" admitted Samantha with a smile.
"Right, EDI. I want all hands doing a full systems check along with a full accounting of supplies. When we get to the Citadel I want everything in order for a smooth restock" he said firmly.
"It will be done Kyson. Anything else?" asked the A.I. Kyson pondered as he tried to think of anything in particular. This whole shakedown was not on the Commander's list of duties but it needed to be done after all they had been through.
"That's all EDI. Thank you" he said before walking down and heading straight towards Joker. Of all the times to be clear headed this was it. He wanted to be up front for their approach. Looming ever closer in the distance was the fleet, along with the Neema. He was busy figuring out how to deal with his more than likely testimonial when a heavy hand was placed on his shoulder.
"Just shoot straight with em son. If there is gonna be any boondoggle, and their always is with Quarians, let it be on their heads. Not yours" said Luke. Kyson nodded finding it wise to listen to his father on this one. Seeing that Luke obviously had an illustrious past with Han and Rael. After the Normandy hailed the live ship and got clearance to doc, they were on the Neema. It was a smooth process unlike his last introduction.
The team was greeted by the Admirals minus Daro. Kyson smirked even though he was hidden by his terrifying helmet.
"How long until the trial?" asked Kyson.
"As soon as Commander Shepard arrives" replied Shala'Raan.
"That won't be happening. Shepard is still in the med bay with injuries, I'm in charge as of now" said Kyson. A few seconds passed before Admiral Korris spoke up.
"Then I should expect full vengeance upon the accused from you" he said guardedly. Kyson shook his head.
"Vengeance is not why I am here. I'm here to make sure both Kerris and Xen stay put during the trial" he replied. He knew he was killing Tali with this, but he had a job to do. He would have no peace otherwise.
"Save it for the trial. We are holding it in the same place as always" snapped Han as he turned away with impatience. The Other admirals left as well.
"I figured he would be in a better mood about this" commented Luke. Kyson shrugged not really caring.
"Right, let's get this over with" said Kyson as he clenched his jaw firmly. As he started to move he was pulled back by Tali.
"Leave us" she barked. Garrus along with Liara nodded before taking off. Luke just stood there with Beni.
"Hun, don't try and argue with him. He has his orders..." began Luke.
"Exactly. And I'm a leader of seventeen million people!" she shouted back. Luke put his hands in the air before walking off in defeat. Beni just stayed quiet as she walked away.
"Kyson. Kerris needs our help! Something is controlling him, it's not his fault" said Tali in a panic. Kyson, after many months of wanting to get this moment couldn't hear her. Despite his love, respect, and patience he had for Tali, she might as well have talked to a plant.
"No, Tali"
A/N
Oh there is so much I want to tell ya'll but it'll have to wait!
Hope you liked it despite the wait.
Review as you will as always. More is in the works.