Author's Note: Mass Effect is owned by Bioware.
This chapter is a continuing improvement of other chapters, I can't promise that the next installment will be soon. Read and Review.
LAST CHAPTER
Aria was able to stop a joint Blue Suns/Blood Pack assault against her with aid from unlikely sources. As thanks for her aid and subsequent loyalty to Omega, Nyreen was made the de facto leader of the Eclipse group of Omega.
Ryan realized that he's actions caused the unfortunate incident in Omega. And his companions, along with their allies made their way to Omega to stop the situation from escalating any further.
At the same time, Mason makes his way towards Omega. What effect will this person give?
Chapter Eight: Aria's Stand
January 24, 2173 – 11:30 PM
Omega – Afterlife
Nyreen is alongside Marcus, Eshin, and Derius were making their way up to Aria's office after receiving a message from her. Inside the room, Nyreen heard that Aria had called up several of her lieutenants as well.
"Were here now, Aria. What's the situation with the Blue Suns and Blood Pack?" Nyreen asked.
"Glad to see you, Ms. Eclipse. First things first, what's the situation with your groups?" Aria asked.
"Stable for the moment, although I doubt that Jona Sederis would be agreeable with my appointment as leader of the Eclipse contingent based in Omega." Nyreen pointed out.
"I'll handle her. You just have to worry about keeping your group intact and loyal to Omega." Aria told her, "Alright then, let's begin the meeting."
Aria walked to her terminal and activated a 3D holographic construction of the space station.
"Cool…" Marcus muttered softly.
"I've highlighted the areas where we still retain a semblance of control." Aria said as she manipulated the hologram and turned it purple in majority of the space station.
"As you can see, we control roughly 60% of the entire station while the Blue Suns and Blood Pack control the area over here." Aria pointed out, as the hologram showed blue and red patches in the remaining areas.
"We have a lot of ground to cover to ensure that our primary facilities will be kept running, of most importance is the space port. If we hold the space port, we can deny them reinforcements." Aria told them, as the hologram zoomed to Omega's space port.
"So the most important question right now is this, 'How many of your men can you commit to the defense of Omega?'" Aria queried the cordons behind.
"I've already pulled back all of the Eclipse mercenaries that were engaged in patrols to standby at Headquarters until further notice." Nyreen responded hastily, "There are two hundred Eclipse mercenaries currently awaiting orders," she disclosed.
"I see, but I wasn't actually asking for digits, but that will do. For now," Aria blurted out before turning her glance to Derius, "What about you?"
"If you count the men I brought with me and the Talon mercenaries currently stationed in Omega as of this very moment, I have two hundred of them under my direct command. But I didn't really expect this situation to happen, and if I had known at the very instant of the immediate occurrence of this dilemma, I would have brought a lot more men." Derius answered dryly.
"Barely enough men…" Aria muttered, "It can't be helped. Nyreen, do you have any mechs we can use at your base?"
"We lost them all from the turf war we had earlier with the Blue Suns." Nyreen countered, to which Aira sighs.
"Between the three of us, we roughly have one thousand and four hundred mercenaries. Most of my men are all stationed at key facilities integral to the space station while four hundred men are on standby here at Afterlife. Damn it all…" Aria growled angrily, "I just don't have enough men to protect the facilities that are prime targets of those bastards."
"Do we know their numbers?" Eshin asked.
"Our best estimates are a combined strength of over two thousand, the exact numbers aren't accurate since they killed off my spies." Aria stated with gloom and fury.
"So in a straight up fight, we might have a chance then." Marcus pointed out.
"Yes, you're correct. But we're already stretched out thin trying to protect Omega so our response will be minimal at best." Eshin added.
"You're forgetting about the drugs." Nyreen reminded him.
"Yeah… tell me about these so called drugs that these bastards are suddenly using." Aria interrupted, "You said that they got it from the Citadel. How did these drugs get into MY station?"
"I'm not clear on the details but apparently someone sent them a crate with two types of drugs for safekeeping. One gives them super-powered biotics while the other permanently removes biotic powers." Nyreen stated, "As to who supplied them with those drugs and why, you'll have to ask my brother."
"I see… Too bad we can't ask your brother who the supplier is, so that I could kill that person personally." Aria gunned angrily.
"Why can't we ask him?" Derius blurted out in surprise.
Aria smirked before asking them, "I'm sure you've all seen the Communication Facility in the commercial district."
"Yeah, that place controls all outside communications from here to anywhere else in the galaxy." Nyreen answered, "What about it?"
"Not many know anything about this, but shortly after I took over Omega, I had the Communication Facility transferred here to Afterlife, so that I can closely monitor all communications coming in and out of Omega. The best part is, no one knows about what I did. The point is that I disabled the entire communication network so no one can contact anyone from the outside until the situation is resolved." Aria said.
"Interesting, I assume you've already prepared a sizable force to defend the facility?" Eshin asked in admiration.
"Of course, aside from Afterlife and the Space Port, the Communication Facility is heavily defended by my men."
"What are the other facilities that you've placed under guard?" Marcus asked.
"Listen carefully then, there are exactly five power stations across Omega that provides power to its respective sectors and are vital in maintaining Omega's orbit. Without these power stations, Omega will fall out of orbit. So these power stations are also vital to us. Of the five power stations in Omega, we control three. Obviously the other two are in Blue Sun and Blood Pack control so we can't do anything about it." Aria explained.
"We could try and take over their power stations." Derius suggested.
"Too risky, besides it's a suicide mission." Nyreen warned.
"Nyreen is right. In addition, our men will be too busy defending other facilities to bother with such an attempt." Aria pointed out, "Next is the Environment Control Facility located nearby in the Commercial District. This facility is vital to our very survival because whoever controls it can lock down each sector and suffocate everyone by taking out the oxygen."
"I sure hope you've put a sizable force in defending that particular facility." Nyreen said weakly, almost repeating Eshin's statement.
"I already reinforced it with more men." Aria explained, "What's next on our agenda?"
"Well, I think we should appoint someone as second in command, in case things turn out much worse than anticipated." Marcus pointed out.
"That seems like a sound suggestion." Aria agreed, "I've already appointed Grizz as second in command of my forces."
"What about the Patriarch?" Derius asked.
"Normally, I would be tempted to appoint him. Unfortunately, he was grievously wounded from the fight earlier so he's been forced to stay out of the fight for the moment." Aria responded, chuckling at the thought.
"I see…" Nyreen said hesitantly, "I'll be appointing Marcus as my second then."
"What? Why would you appoint me? What about Eshin?" Marcus boomed with surprise.
"I can depend on you to keep a cool head in any situation, plus, you're good with the men." Nyreen answered, "As for Eshin, I need him here to help coordinate with the troops in case something worse happens."
"I see… well if there's no one else, I accept the position." Marcus gloomed in resignation.
Everyone else turned to look at Derius, "Well?" Aria asked impatiently.
"My second-in-command will be Seth, the commander in charge of the Talons in Omega." Derius answered, "I'm only here to ensure Nyreen survives."
"Alright, then we've already established our current strength and the ones in charge if things get worse." Nyreen pointed out, "So what's next?"
"We're going to need a plan of attack." Eshin proposed, "We can't always stay on the defensive all the time."
"That's an excellent suggestion, Eshin." Marcus motioned, "The problem is we don't have the numbers to mount an attack while protecting Omega at the same time."
"That's why I propose we attack now while we still have the time." Eshin proposed, "Logically, they would assume that we would be putting men to defend what we have thereby reducing our forces. If we do the opposite, then we might have a chance of cutting them off before they can strike."
"That's a bold plan… but what about the people we would be abandoning and the men that might die from this attempt?" asked Aria.
"We could… no…" Eshin altered before shaking his head, "Sorry about that, I got caught up in the moment… I will not become like my father where the end justifies the means."
"Wow… that's a human sentiment, isn't it?" Marcus said in surprise.
"Yes… Yes it is." Eshin agreed with a smile, "I've been studying up on human culture on my free time."
"Alright, that's enough with the chitchat. Eshin, your idea is of an interest but it has too many risks." Aria warned, "And I don't intend to abandon those people who live in the place I call home. So we have to stick to the original plan. I've taken the liberty of assigning each of us a sector to protect in case my men need reinforcements. I'll take the commercial sector. Eclipse will handle the residential sector and the Talons will be at the industrial field."
"That sounds like a good plan." Derius said in agreement, "I'm just wondering. What do we do if your men aren't enough to protect the facilities in our assigned sectors?"
"Reinforce them if you can but ensure that those facilities remain in our hands or everything will be lost." Nyreen said grimly.
"Anything else anyone wants to add?" Aria stared at those sullen eyes.
Everyone looked at each other quietly for a few seconds before Marcus spoke up, "So that's the plan? Buckle down and protect everyone and hope for the best?"
"Essentially, yes." Aria answered.
"What about reinforcements?" Marcus asked incredulously.
"I've already sent out a dispatch to Jona Sederis to send every available Eclipse mercenary to Omega, as well as every other mercenary group near Omega." Aria glimmered in distress, "Jona Sederis said it would take a couple of days to get every Eclipse in Omega. So we must hold out until then."
"If it helps, my brother is on his way here with a team." Nyreen informed the group, "They should be here by tomorrow."
"Alright, that takes care of that, before you leave, here's a keypad with all relevant information regarding our defenses." Aria announced as she handed keypads to everyone in the room, "Let's all meet with our men and tell them the plans we made. You're dismissed."
The rest of them left the apartment, leaving Aria with her lieutenants. Aria looked at her lieutenants to gauge about how they feel about the situation.
"I know that things look tough right now. We lost a lot of friends and family today, but those bastards are going down for what they did." Aria promised them, "Omega needs your help. I need your help."
Grizz approached Aria saying, "We're with you all the way, Ma'am."
"Good to know, Grizz. I'm leaving you in charge with the response team. I'll let you choose who you want to bring but it should be at least a hundred and fifty men. If anything happens, let me know immediately. I'll be in my room."
With that, Aria went up the lift to her private quarter.
000
"So Nyreen, what do you think about Aria's plan?" Marcus asked, as they made their way out of Afterlife.
"It's a sound plan, but I doubt it's going to be simple. We have a lot of ground to cover." Nyreen explained, "Not to mention the fact that with our forces spread so thin, we're going to have to respond to the ones that are most critical and abandon the rest if we want to survive from this fight."
"Wait a minute, did you just say abandon the rest? Where is this coming from?" Marcus was shocked, almost flabbergasted to hear that coming from Nyreen.
"It's not that I don't want to protect everyone, Marcus. Yet we have to admit that it is impossible to protect everyone." Nyreen supported her provocations in resignation.
"She's right, you know. Not to mention the possibility of fighting super biotics will greatly increase the difficulty of our goal." Eshin pointed out, "Although I did notice that after the first ten minutes, they stopped using biotics and resorted to their firearms."
"A lot can happen in ten minutes, especially if it's a group of super-biotic mercenaries hell-bent on taking over Omega." Derius added.
"We just have to do our best and make sure that we survive. Isn't that right guys?" Nyreen gleamed with interest.
"That's right." The rest of them answered as they left Afterlife and made their way back to their respective headquarters.
January 24, 2173 – 11:40 PM
Omega – Eclipse Headquarters
Nyreen, Marcus and Eshin arrived at their headquarters without any altercations from any forces.
"Marcus, we're going to need a place to gather everyone so that they'll know what we plan to do. Any suggestions where we can get them to meet?" Nyreen opened the floor before they entered the building.
Marcus said nothing, confused, thinking.
"Well?" Nyreen asked again.
"I'm thinking… Don't rush me." Marcus barged.
Nyreen sighed in exasperation and looked at Eshin, "Eshin?"
"I suggest we gather everyone at the hangar. Now that we're not holding any mechs, I think it'll be large enough for us," Eshin answered with no hesitation after giving it some thought.
"That's a great idea!" Marcus exclaimed, "I'm glad we have Eshin here for these sorts of things." There was no response.
"Marcus… you're supposed to know these things as well." Nyreen pointed out in exasperation, "Why don't you make yourself useful and gather everyone at the hangar?"
"Aye aye chief." Marcus said mockingly before making his way inside the building.
"I wish he would take this seriously." Nyreen whispered softly to herself.
Eshin, who was about to follow Marcus inside stopped, "He is taking it seriously, he just needs some time to learn what he needs to do."
"Time is a luxury that we just don't have right now." Nyreen pointed out dejectedly.
"True… and that's why we'll do our best to get through this." Eshin spoke calmly and entered the building.
Nyreen stared out into the street where she could see several citizens walking around without any idea of what was happening in Omega, "Is our best enough though?"
000
Nyreen moved herself into the hangar shortly after everyone was assembled and looked over her friends and companions she had gained during her stay in Omega.
Stepping up to the makeshift podium that someone had the foresight to place, Nyreen began to address her men.
"Everyone, I just came back from a meeting with Aria and our allies. The situation is grim, Aria's forces have taken a heavy blow from the attack earlier and now they are stretched to their limits trying to protect Omega. Fortunately for us, we have been reinforced by Talon mercenaries. So we have a chance of surviving this fight." Nyreen explained to them, "Before we begin our plans to defend the sector, do any of you have any questions?"
There were several mumblings from the men until one Turian stood up and looked at her, "I know that Aria appointed you as leader of Eclipse here in Omega, but last time I checked, Aria isn't one of us. I doubt Jona Sederis would support your appointment, Nyreen."
Marcus tried to argue with the Turian but Nyreen held up her hand to stop him, Marcus stepped back but glared at the Turian.
"You're right. Aria did appoint me as leader of this group and Aria is not a part of Eclipse." Nyreen agreed with his sentiments, "But let me ask all of you, would you follow the orders of someone who is not here? Jona Sederis might be the founder of Eclipse but is she in Omega right now? NO! But WE ARE. WE were the ones fighting the battles in Omega. WE were the ones risking our very lives to protect our home. I might not have Jona Sederis' support but damn it to hell, I am not going to let those bastards take over my home. I will not stand idle while they take away my home. No… this is not just my home, THIS IS OUR HOME. Now then, ARE WE GOING TO LET THOSE BASTARDS TAKE OUR HOME WITHOUT A FIGHT?!"
At this, everyone, including the Turian who had just questioned Nyreen's leadership, shouted with a roar that reverberates throughout the hangar, "NO!"
Marcus glanced at Eshin with a smile before muttering, "She has the makings of a great leader."
"She has the qualities." Eshin muttered back to Marcus as the noise slowly died down, "Now she has the opportunity."
"Now then, I'm appointing Marcus as my second." Nyreen said as she motioned for Marcus to join her, "He'll be in charge of leading the defenses of this sector while I'll be at Afterlife, monitoring the overall situation. I wish I could be here myself fighting alongside you, but this is bigger than us. So we have to do what we must. I'll let Marcus inform you about our plans. Marcus?"
Marcus reluctantly joined Nyreen on the podium and introduced himself, "Now then… I'm sure everyone knows me, the name is Marcus Arnel but most of you know me as "Deadshot."
Marcus showed them the data pad that was given by Aria earlier and addressed them all, "I have read through this earlier and will explain our plan of action. Eclipse is in charge of the residential sector. The good news is that the only facility deemed important enough to be attacked that's located in this sector is the Power Station, so we won't be stretched that badly in case they attack the Power Station. The bad news is that there are thousands of innocent civilians living here that could possibly be caught in the ensuing crossfire. So our first priority is to ensure that every civilian stays at their homes and does not go out for any reason barring total evacuation. As a precaution, I've decided to set up an honor guard for Nyreen, fifty at most to provide her with additional protection."
Hearing the statement, Nyreen did nothing but glare at Marcus, continuing his words, "In addition, the remaining men will form teams of thirty to simplify the command structure. These teams will then head out to inform the civilians to remain indoors while patrolling the area for any Blue Sun or Blood Pack forces. Are there any questions?"
A female Turian raised her hand so then Marcus beckoned her to stand up.
"What about reports of the Blue Suns and Blood Pack having obtained drugs that give them super biotics? How do we deal with them?"
At this, Eshin stepped forward and answered for Marcus as the Turian sat down, "We will deal with them the same way we deal with normal biotics, through teamwork and strategy. Although granted, these people are terrifying in their own right, it is my observation that they can't maintain continuous use of their biotic powers. By my estimate, they have limitless biotic capabilities in the first ten minutes upon taking these drugs. After that… they are just like any other non-biotic."
"So there you have it, we have a way to deal with these people. Of course for the first ten minutes, we'll need to be careful in engaging these super biotics. So use cover when you can." Marcus told them, "Also keep in visual sight of your team and no heroics. I don't want anyone dying if I can help it."
A male Human raised his hand and was beckoned to rise.
"What do we do if we meet the Blue Suns and Blood Pack during our patrols?"
"Report it in and we'll handle it together." Marcus answered, "DO NOT ENGAGE THEM ON YOUR OWN. We'll handle them as a team."
Seeing that no one else was asking any questions, Marcus said before dismissing them, "Alright then, leaders of the teams, see me later for your patrol routes and further instructions."
Marcus approached Nyreen as the rest of the Eclipse mercenaries made plans to team up with their companions.
"Not bad for your first time." Nyreen praised, "Although we are going to have a serious discussion about you appointing me an honor guard."
"I know you can take care of yourself, but there's a fight going on in Omega and I don't want you to go at it alone." Marcus responded in a sullen way.
"He's right, Nyreen. It's better to have someone who has your back than to go at it alone." Eshin added.
"Fine…" Nyreen finally relented, "If there's nothing else, I'm going to my room and give myself a treat. Let me know if anything happened."
After answering in the affirmative, Nyreen made her way to her room.
January 24, 2173 – 11:40 PM
Omega – Talon Headquarters
Derius entered the office of Seth inside Talon Headquarters.
Upon seeing Derius, Seth stood up and greeted him, "Sir, it's nice of you to come. It's a pleasure to see you again, sir."
"No time for niceties, Seth. We're in deep shit right now." Derius answered grimly, as he sat down on the chair facing Seth.
Seeing that Derius meant business, Seth sat back down, "So what happened?"
"As we speak, Omega is officially a warzone and the Talons will have to do its part. Aria wants us to defend the industrial sector of Omega. I'm thinking we steal few machines that are lying around that we can use against the Blue Suns and Blood Pack." Derius said.
Realizing what Derius intended to do, Seth tried to dissuade him, "Sir. We've built up a credible reputation here in Omega. The last thing we want to do is antagonize the people by doing that."
The man of the higher position just looked at Seth straight in his eyes for several seconds before sighing, "Fine, tell them that we'll compensate them for anything we'll take but we need machines… any machine will do."
"What exactly happened at Afterlife, Derius?" Seth asked quietly.
Derius looked up in surprise, "You haven't called me Derius in a long time, Seth."
"Derius…" Seth said slowly, "What happened?"
Derius looked at Seth for a few seconds before answering, "You really want to know what happened?"
Seth nodded.
"It was a massacre…" Derius answered slowly, "As you know, I took twenty of our best men out to find our client in Afterlife…"
We all thought that this would be an easy job. We were wrong. The first inkling of trouble was when we came upon Grizz and his men being attacked by Blue Suns and Blood Pack. Naturally, we helped Grizz since we aren't exactly on a friendly basis with either of the two. We easily took care of that group with our combined strength. We thought that that was the end of the hysteria until Aria sent out a coded message to Grizz and her followers that Afterlife was attacked.
We headed towards Afterlife, expecting the Patriarch and the guards to have taken care of them already. When we got there, the situation was far different than what we expected. Half of Aria's men lay dead on the floor while the rest were engaged in a fierce firefight with the Blue Suns and Blood Pack. The Patriarch himself was barely able to keep up against two biotics. TWO biotics alone stopped a Krogan Warlord—a sign that they were actually winning. Seeing this, several of our men, as well as myself, opened fire at one of the biotics. I don't know how he did it, but we fired everything we had and his barrier STILL held out. That was when I realized how grim the situation truly was.
Naturally, that little display brought attention to our arrival and that's when the massacre truly started. Everything became a blur as we did everything we could to take them out. We found out first-hand the power of these super biotics when a biotic clear across the room PUSHED three of Grizz's men and flattened them into the wall. Then there were those crazy maniacs. I saw one Krogan get tackled by a Blue Sun—a small human female, barely over five feet in height—who then bashed his head in with her bare hands. Suffice to say, we were royally fucked up. Then something strange happened, the biotics suddenly stopped using their powers and resorted to using their firearms while the crazies began to attack everyone, even their own people. That gave us enough breathing room to take them all out.
"From the twenty men that left with you, only five survived." Seth said.
"That's right. Those bastards killed our very best like they were nothing." Derius answered somberly, "That's why we're going to need mechs if we hope to survive this."
"I'll see what I can do." Seth said, "You should get some rest, you don't look so well, sir."
"Yeah… I need to take a breather. Can you handle things for me, Seth?" Derius called for a plea before handing out the data pad Aria gave him earlier to Seth, "This might help you out."
"Of course." Seth answered before Derius left the office.
"What the hell is happening in Omega?" Seth thought, as he called up the team commanders of Talon.
January 24, 2173 – 11:55 PM
Omega – Blue Suns Headquarters
Tarak entered his office and was about to make his way to his terminal when someone sitting on his desk greeted him. "Tarak, I'm disappointed to hear that our little foray failed miserably."
Upon hearing that voice, Tarak unholstered his pistol and aimed it at Garm's head and calmly said, "You really should learn not to break into someone's own office."
"Why Tarak, I thought we were allies." Garm responded with a smirk, "Twitchy are we…"
"Just being cautious, Garm." Tarak secured as he holstered his pistol, "So what brings you here?"
"The people we sent to Afterlife failed on their task." Garm answered grimly, "They are all dead, despite the drugs."
Tarak raised his eyebrow in surprise, "You really didn't think that experiment of mine would actually succeed?"
"What?! Then what was the point of that attack then?" Garm asked in indignation, "You sent my own men to their deaths. You'd better have a good explanation for their sacrifices."
"You forgot. I also sent my own men into that fight as well." Tarak pointed out, "The purpose of that attack wasn't to succeed in eliminating Aria, although if everything had worked out well then you wouldn't be here. No… the reason for that attack is to find out the combat potential for the drugs, Nassana was kind enough to hand some over to us."
"I thought you tested those drugs already?" Garm queried in surprise.
"Yes, I have. Thanks to countless 'volunteers', we now know what these drugs are capable of." Tarak answered, "Although a combat situation is vastly different than what we were conducting with these 'volunteers'."
"I see." Garm said after thinking about it for a while, "So what are the results of these so-called tests."
"We've tested the drugs we currently have available to a significant degree among various races in our organization." Tarak began, "The Alpha drug, the one that gives the user an insane amount of biotic capability works very well in all species."
"You mean… even the Vorcha?" Garm asked in surprise.
"Yes, although the effects for the Vorcha is vastly different compared to other races." Tarak explained, "Not only do they gain biotic powers but their skin changes to a bluish pigmentation, similar to Asari. Giving them… a notoriously obvious indicator as to what they are."
"I see. What about the drugs' effects?" Garm prodded eagerly.
"As stated before from the initial results, users gain at most 24 hours use of biotic capabilities and suffers a 48 hour coma period. So that grants the users at least 1,440 minutes." Tarak continued, "But we've discovered during the course of further testing that while the user has unlimited use of their biotics, it only lasts ten minutes once they start to use their biotics."
"Unlimited use? Ten minutes? Are you saying that the twenty-four hours of guaranteed biotic capabilities are wrong?" Garm asked with outrage.
"That's not exactly how I would put it. To better understand this, you must know that for every biotic power, there exists a necessary 'cool down' factor to protect the biotic from harmful effects of continuous use of their powers." Tarak began, "Mind you, I'm not exactly a scientist. I'm just reading what our Salarian friend has passed over to me. Now to continue, the user IS guaranteed at least twenty four hours of guaranteed biotic capabilities BUT they are only able to use their biotics for at least ten minutes before they undergo a twenty minute 'cool down' before they can use their biotics again for another ten minutes."
"I see." Garm protruded in disgust, "There's not much point in being a super biotic if it has such a huge handicap."
"That's true." Tarak nodded in agreement, "But our Salarian friend has promised to try to improve the drugs."
"Really now… what did you have to give up in order for him to do that?"
"Nothing that major, he just needs our help in erasing his past identity. So his former companions won't be able to find him. He doesn't want to disappear using their methods since it will be easier to be tracked, or that's what he claimed."
"I see." Garm said, "What about the other drug, the one that permanently neuters biotics."
"Ah… yes. That one is a pain in the ass." Tarak agreed, "But we had found something that makes up for the loss of biotics."
"Oh… and what could possibly do that?" Garm asked in derision.
Seeing Garm's contempt, Tarak just smiled before answering, "How about the strength to crush a krogan with your bare hands?"
"Hah, I already have that…" Garm started to say before realizing, "Wait… you mean to tell me…"
"Precisely, the cost of losing biotics is an exponential increase in muscle strength, speed, stamina, and endurance." Tarak responded somberly, "The best piece—the effects are permanent."
"Is that so… We'll then, I'm up for it. My biotics aren't as strong as they used to be." Garm pointed out, "but a permanent increase in physical abilities? I'd be unstoppable."
"What are you talking about?" Tarak asked in confusion.
"I'm talking about me going away and leaving in a farm." Garm answered sarcastically, "Of course I'm talking about taking the Omega drug for myself."
"I see." Tarak said thoughtfully, "It's a bad idea. The drugs would have given you superior physical abilities but the side effect… is catastrophic, especially for you."
"What do you mean?! What side effect would there be that would render the benefits useless?"
"The closest that I can understand from what our Salarian friend told me, it's similar to a Krogan's battle rage." Tarak explained, "Alongside the benefits, the drawback is that it also increases the user's rage and aggression to an insane level rendering them unable to follow simple commands. Further testing has shown that only those with high levels of self-control and will power have managed to stave off the rage and aggression albeit with some difficulty. We had to terminate several experiments for fear of the damage they would cause if they get out. It has been suggested that they'd be used as shock troopers, and I'm inclined to agree. So as you can see, you would be useless since you wouldn't be able to follow through on the orders."
"Are you saying, I lack willpower and self-control?" Garm growled in indignation.
"As a matter of fact, yes, I am." Tarak said evenly, "I've seen you lose yourself to your blood lust countless times and I will not have you ruin this chance for us by taking those drugs.
Garm grabbed ahold of Tarak and pushed him up against the wall, his arm on Tarak's throat, "Tell me why I shouldn't crush your throat right now and take over for myself?!"
Tarak looked at Garm coldly with his eyes before answering, "Your honor and the fact that without me, our little revolution will go up in flames."
"I see. So bottom line is, the drugs Nassana sent to you are a blessing and a curse." Garm was disgusted of the thought as released Tarak, "Oh well, at least we have a so-called edge against Aria and the other mercenary groups."
"Yes, I just heard from our informant that the Eclipse and Talons have thrown their lot with Aria. Whatever they hope to accomplish when we have the drugs is beyond me."
"Did your informant find out what their plans are?"
"Yes, apparently Aria concocted a plan to try and hold the vital facilities of Omega. Sadly, her men are barely enough to hold them all. That explains why she's relying on Eclipse and Talons mercenaries to handle reinforcing those facilities if they were ever attacked."
"Bah… leave them alone, the real target is Aria herself." Garm growled.
"She is the target, but if we leave the Talons and Eclipse alone then that leaves us open to attack from the flanks and a possible pincer attack. No, leaving those two alone would be tantamount to suicide. We are going to need a distraction to get Aria alone," Tarak pointed out.
"That would be a great idea. But wait, I presume we don't have enough men anymore, especially with all those experiments of yours."
"True…" Tarak said softly, "But I have a plan. It's a bold plan and it will work."
"What is it then? When will it happen?"
"The attack will commence early in the morning." Tarak answered, "Now this is what we'll do…"
January 25, 2173 – 1:00 AM
Eternal Wanderer
Janus sits alone in the darkened mess hall, wondering whether his sister was doing alright.
"She's a powerful biotic and she's an excellent tactician. She won't get herself killed." Janus thought to himself.
Just then Chelsea entered the room, "Hey Janus, I've been looking for you. What are you doing here in the dark?"
He looked up at a stature of beauty and smiled briefly, "Just thinking about my sister. Why were you looking for me?"
Instead of answering, Chelsea sat down beside Janus and hugged him tightly before looking at him, "What? I can't go looking for my boyfriend?"
Janus was both appalled and surprised and just smiled like an out-of-his-mind being, "You can, yet I kind of expected some sort of news since we should be nearing Omega."
Chelsea sighed, "Fine… Nihlus wants to have a meeting with everyone an hour before we arrive at Omega."
Janus looked at his girl's forlorn face before taking her hand and pulling her up.
"What are…" Chelsea was muted with Janus' two fingers on her gentle lips.
"Come on, it just occurred to me that we really haven't spent that much quality time since we got involved in this mess."
"So what's your plan then?" Chelsea asked, "A little one-on-one in the training room or maybe a shooting match?"
"I was thinking maybe dinner for two before the meeting." Janus answered, smirking as his answer shocked Chelsea into silence.
"What… what about after the meeting?" Chelsea asked hoarsely.
"For that…" Janus answered with a wink, "You'll have to wait…"
Chelsea chuckled weakly as she lightly punched Janus' shoulder, "Come on… let's go to the kitchen."
Smiling to himself, Janus followed Chelsea.
000
Shadow sat down on the sofa at the port observation deck, as he quietly contemplated his current job. Shadow always made sure that he knew what kind of job he was getting into but he never expected to be fighting against super-powered biotics and super-powered soldiers. That was above his expertise, but a contract was still a contract. Besides, if Aleena hasn't bailed on her human employer then he wouldn't as well. It was unfortunate that he's skills as an assassin wasn't really necessary in this type of warfare but he was more than able to hold his own.
His musings was interrupted when his omni-tool alerted him for an incoming message. Shadow then activated his device and was surprised that the sender was an old acquaintance of his, Gunther. Curious as to why he would try to contact him since their last meeting went sour, Shadow decided to open the message, his curiosity getting the better of himself. After briefly reading the message, he began to wonder as to what motive Gunther would have for asking him to do this particular job. Deciding that this was ultimately a waste of his time, Shadow started to delete the message but stopped before he could complete the process.
"I'd better keep this with me as insurance." Shadow thought to himself, as he saved the message to his private files.
Once done, Shadow realized that it was still a couple more hours before the ship arrives at Omega, so he decided to take a nap while he still could.
000
Wrex was spending his time at the cargo hold, modifying his new Tornado VI Shotgun that he received from Nihlus.
"There. That should do it…" Wrex said to himself as he hefted the Tornado VI Shotgun and aimed at the testing dummy nearby before placing it back on the table, "Needs more balance…"
"What about ammunition? You did remember to pick up a few upgrades, right?" Someone asked from behind Wrex.
"Yeah, I got several ammunition upgrades but I'm going to be using Shredder Ammo." Wrex responded as he turned around to face Aleena, "What about you?"
"You're going to use Shredder Ammo?" Aleena asked in surprise, "I guess that would make sense since we are going to be facing organics in this fight. Super-powered they might be but they are still organics. As for me, I'm going to try out the Cryo Rounds that Nihlus got for us."
"Cryo Rounds… So you ice em' and I'll shred them. Is that it?" Wrex asked, chuckling.
"Precisely!" Aleena answered smugly, "So what's the plan for Omega?"
"No idea, I'm going to let Nihlus and Janus handle the situation in Omega, since they know more about what's going on." Wrex pointed out, "Besides, Janus is the one in charge for this mission."
"I see, so for this mission, we're just the grunts." Aleena remarked.
"I wouldn't say you're a grunt." Wrex answered, "You'd be more like a Huntress closing in on her prey."
"Oh, you're getting poetic at your age, Wrex." Aleena pointed out in surprise to which Wrex just chuckled, "What would you call yourself then?"
"I blame Ryan and his insistence that I read about culture and civilization." Wrex reacted in resignation, "Why he would push me on reading those books I will never know."
Aleena raised her eyebrow, "He must have some great plans for you."
"Great Plans? For me?" Wrex raised a voice incredulously before laughing out loud, "I doubt that would be the case but if it's great plans that interest me, it's going to be the fight between me and a genetically enhanced mercenary. It's going to be exciting."
"If it's a fight you're excited about, why don't you and me take a turn at the mats. I want to see which one of us has gotten better…" Aleena said before adding, "or older."
Wrex looked at her in shock ands grinned, "I'll take that bet. Come on, I'll show you what a Krogan Battlemaster can do."
"Oh… Those are big words coming from a beat up old Krogan." Aleena taunted, as she walked to the middle of the cargo hold."
"This is going to be fun." Wrex evoked as he walked over to her.
000
Garrus was strolling around the corridors, deep in thought because he had just received a message from his sister, Salona to contact their father about his decision to leave C-Sec. The fact that his father had asked Salona to contact him instead of contacting him personally meant that his father was seriously disappointed in him.
Sighing heavily, Garrus read the message he had received earlier from Salona.
Garrus,
We were planning on surprising you earlier by visiting you at C-Sec. Imagine our surprise when your commanding officer told us that you had quit and joined up with a corporation. Our parents were shocked about that particular news. Now Dad wants to talk to you about you quitting C-Sec and joining in a corporation. Anyway, I have faith in your decisions but still… why a corporation? We'll be at the Citadel for a couple more days, come and see us. Here's the place where we are staying, Presidium Apartment, Room 15.
Your sister, Salona
Garrus rubbed his temple as he made his way to his assigned room.
"This is going to be difficult…" Garrus muttered, making his way to the terminal.
Upon accessing the terminal, Garrus called up the Communication Room.
The officer in charge of the Communication Room looked up from what he was doing when his terminal alerted him for an incoming call. The officer accepted the incoming call, "Can I help you?"
"Yeah, can you direct a video call for me to the Citadel?" Garrus asked.
"Sure, just let me patch you through." The officer answered as he made the necessary connections, "Where do you want me to contact?"
"Presidium Apartment, Room 15." Garrus responded wearily.
"Alright, the connection is patching through." The officer said, "I'll leave you to it then."
Garrus waited for a few seconds before the call was patched through.
"Garrus!" His mother blew in surprise, "I was expecting you to come over here."
"Yeah… I would have gone there in person but I'm not on the Citadel at the moment." Garrus answered, "How are you, mom?"
"Slowly getting there… my health isn't as good as it was before." Tasha Vakarian uttered in a low toned sentiment, "Frankly son, the real reason we're in the Citadel is because your dad heard about a new treatment for Corpalis Syndrome."
"Aw… I didn't know. I would have been there but…" Garrus started to explain when his dad showed up in the screen.
"Garrus, I see that you're not here in person." Flavus Vakarian remarked, "I'm guessing your new 'job' is taking you places."
"Dad, it's not what you think." Garrus answered, "I didn't quit on my job because of this job."
"Don't worry about it, son." Flavus interrupted, "I had an enlightening talk with your supervisor."
"Dad…"
"In fact, it was so illuminating; I went ahead and talked to Executor Pallin myself where he explained the situation." Flavus commenced with a rueful smile, "I can't really complain about your new job, you're taking a more hands-on approach in dealing with crime."
"I'm glad you're happy, dad." Garrus uttered tentatively, "Salona's message gave me the impression that you weren't happy about what happened."
"Well, in my defense, I asked Salona to message you before I had that meeting with your corporate boss." Flavus evoked sheepishly, "But now I know better. So where are you off to? Executor Pallin said something about a case concerning stolen drugs."
Garrus sighed in relief when he realized he didn't have to lie to his dad, "We're on our way to Omega to stop a possible takeover."
"I see. And how do the drugs relate to that?"
"The drugs have adverse effects on those that take them. Sorry dad, but I can't give out this type of information over an unsecured line. You know the rules."
"Of course, I understand." Flavus nodded and smirked, "Of course, I know the rules, but there's always a loophole for the rules that you don't want to get in your way. So Omega… kind of out of our jurisdiction isn't it?"
"It would be, except the shipment came from a prominent politician in the Citadel, so we're being sent in to clean up the mess." Garrus explained, "What exactly did Executor Pallin say?"
"It's not what Executor Pallin said to me but it's what your boss, Ryan had said. He convinced me that you made the right call." Flavus answered, "Besides Executor Pallin is a lousy liar, I saw it right through him and I know that he's bullshit."
"I see…" Garrus remarked, "I should have known that no one could put one past you."
Flavus smirked, "I'd love to have a talk with you for a little more time but I have to take your mother to the hospital. You'll contact me after the mission is over, alright?"
"Sure, I will. I have stuff to do as well. Thanks for understanding."
"No worries, Ryan set me straight about what you're doing. Make us proud, son." Flavus disclosed before cancelling the call.
"I will…" Garrus muttered softly.
000
Nihlus looked down on the bed that was formerly used by the late Nassana before shrugging his shoulders and laid down on it. Nihlus was dead-tired not because of any intense physical workout. He was dead-tired from all the paperwork and reports he had to make just to get this far with the operation. The worst part, since it wasn't even his own operation, the Council just had to butt in when they found out what he was doing since it was their resources he was using.
Nihlus rubbed his forehead as he thought back to what had happened a few hours before the ship was launched.
At the Citadel Tower
"Spectre Kryik, would you care to explain us why there are several reports concerning your recent actions?" Councilor Tevos asked.
"I don't understand. What do you actually mean, Councilor." Nihlus replied glibly.
"Okay, let's start with you pushing through the clearance for the ship, Eternal Wanderer. The owner I might add is a person of dubious reputation." Councilor Valern protruded.
"Let's not forget that you took out crewmembers from several Council ships and placed them in charge of the Eternal Wanderer." Council Sparatus added.
"Did you think we wouldn't notice what you were doing? Granted Spectres have the right to do what needs to be done, but what you did could jeopardize the Citadel's defenses." Councilor Tevos concluded, "So what do you have to say for yourself?"
"I see, let me answer your questions appropriately then." There was confidence on the tone. "First, I believe the clearance of the Eternal Wanderer is visible. Now then, as to the ownership of the ship, I presumed you've read my report regarding Nassana and the drugs she has sent to Omega. We're using the Eternal Wanderer because its credentials are known to Omega and thus won't be suspected of being affiliated with the Council or the Spectres. I inferred that sums up the reason as to its clearance. Now for the matter of the crew members I drafted into running the ship, the group that will be going to Omega with me does not have the qualifications to fly a ship with the Eternal Wanderer's classification, hence the need to draft the crew members is vital. Also, I doubt that the temporary removal of ensigns and junior officers will adversely affect the combat efficiency of the Council Fleet to the degree that you are implying."
"Very well, I can see that your reputation precedes you. You are well within your rights to do what needs to be done. This situation in Omega is spiraling out of control, especially with the added effects those drugs have. So we believe that the Council has to step in and take control. If things work out as expected, this will result in a permanent presence in the Terminus System." Councilor Sparatus blurted out with shame in his eyes, "Although we will expect a full report on what has happened after you return from Omega.
"As to the matter of the drugs still remaining in the Citadel, I believe that the Council should have possession of the drugs." Council Valern added.
"Of course, Councilor, but those drugs are currently in the possession of a certain individual. I suggest that if you do intend to take possession of the drugs, you do so diplomatically or else you might find the results unpleasant if he were to use the drugs himself if he felt threatened." Nihlus pointed out.
"I see what you mean. Very well, I shall handle this myself then." Councilor Tevos said, "You're dismissed Spectre Kryik."
Nihlus accepted the dismissal with a nod of his head and left the room. He kept his head up like a reigning superior authority until door was closed.
Sighing heavily, Nihlus turned to his side and set the alarm for a half-hour before their meeting and closed his eyes.
January 25, 2173 – 2:30 AM
Omega – Talons Headquarters
Seth was hard at work coordinating with the defenses for their sector when Derius enters the office.
Seeing Seth lifting up muscles, Derius sat down on the chair across Seth's location and took out a cigarette from the box on the desk before asking, "So how are things looking up?"
Seth looked up at Derius and sighed, "Things are doing well but frankly, we need more men to hold the area. With the information from the datapad Aria gave you, I've managed to put up several chokepoints along key areas of the industrial sector enabling us to hold majority of the sector with as few men as possible."
"That's great. But what happens if they are attacked?"
"That's where the rest of our men come in. We'll be forming several response teams that will reinforce the group that are being attacked. Although with the number of men that we have at our disposal, I could only make three response teams, two of which will be in charge of securing the area."
"I take it that the third team is meant to be my guards?"
"Not necessarily, they are meant to stay here and reinforce the base and provide protection for me, you're second in command." Seth answered humorously, "Besides, you'll be at Afterlife with Nyreen together with Aria and her men. I doubt if there's a need to send more men when you have the Queen of Omega at your side."
"True, I'd welcome the additional men but with the way things are, they are more needed here. I can take care of myself." Derius pronounced with a superior persona, "What about the mechs I wanted you to acquire?"
"I already sent out men to request for any available mechs we can use, I'm just waiting for their report." Seth responded just as there was a ring from the door, "This must be it."
A Talon mercenary entered the room and handed over a data pad to Seth, "Sir, here are the final reports concerning the mechs that we acquired from several companies in the area."
Seth took the data pad from the Talon mercenary and glanced over it briefly before glancing over the man standing just in front of him in a low monotonous voice, "Derius, I'd like to introduce to you one of my lieutenants. This is Billy Hemsworth."
Billy turned to look at Derius and bowed, still speaking in a monotonous voice, "It's an honor to finally meet you, sir. I really admire you and what you've accomplished."
"Thank you, what I've accomplished aren't all that but I appreciate it." Derius prodded amicably.
"Billy, I'm sorry to cut this short but could you go hand this over to the other officers?" Seth requested, as he handed over a data pad over to Billy.
"Of course, sir, I'll go over there right now." Billy answered, "It was nice meeting you, sir."
"He's a good kid." Seth whispered as he watched Billy leave the room, "He's from Ferris Fields."
Less blatantly, there was an interest over Billy from Derius, "In fact, soon after he left Ferris Fields he joined up with our outfit because he heard so much about you."
"I see. 'Can't believe they still remember me." Derius muttered.
"What did you expect? You helped them out when news were leaked that Batarians were heading for Ferris Fields." Seth reminded him.
"Of course, we got paid for it." Derius retorted.
"Oh yeah, I forgot, we got paid ten thousand credits for risking our lives against Batarian slavers that were four times larger than our group and won. Not even the Blue Suns or Blood Pack lifted a finger to help us when they found out how much that job cost." Seth pointed out, "Face it, Derius, that one job brought out a lot of good will for us regardless of your intentions."
"Fine… but I'd really hate myself if that kid would be disappointed in me. I'm not the best at being a role model."
"You're already doing a fine job so I don't see any problem. Now let's get started with the distribution of the mechs we have acquired."
There was a short pause.
"Alright, so what are the numbers?" Derius opened.
"Let's see…" Seth muttered as he read over the report, "We acquired two dozens industrial mechs, eight heavy labor mechs, and four mech welders."
"I don't recognize any of their classifications." Derius said, chuckling.
"Me either, guess we'll have to look up the extranet for their specifications." Seth barged as he activated his terminal and brought up the extranet.
"Let's see… the mechs we acquired are classified as the 3.2 Industrial Mech. They are mainly used for ship building as well as heavy industrial work. They have two claw hands that can crush most of the known materials in the galaxy. Their main disadvantage is that they have the movement speed of an Elcor." Seth informed Derius.
"Hey, you really expect me to believe that they compared the movement of that machine with an Elcor?" Derius asked incredulously.
"Of course they didn't state that, but it is implied." Seth answered with a smirk, "Moving on, the heavy labor mechs are the 2.1 Heavy Industrial Mech. They are stated to be able to carry a corvette on their own but it hasn't been actually tested yet. It's even slower than the Industrial series but makes up for it with its incredible strength.
"That could prove useful against those berserkers."
"Finally, we have the 6.5 Welder Mech. These mechs are faster than the other two. And they come with a built-in torch welder. Strange… not much is known about them…" Seth muttered, "Oh wait, got it, the basic specifications are the same as those previous models. The only difference is the torch welder which can cut through any known metal or weld any metal in place in just seconds, which is a slight improvement over version 6.4."
"These mechs will greatly help in setting up blockades and serve as heavy hitters if we ever need to use them in a fight." Derius stated, "I guess that's that. Now we just need to find someone who knows how to pilot these things. We just need to ensure that we do our part."
"Don't worry. We'll do our part in protecting our home." Seth stated with conviction.
January 25, 2173 – 4:00 AM
Eternal Wanderer
Nihlus entered the conference room and found that it was completely empty. Sighing softly, Nihlus activated the comm. terminal in the room and made an announcement. The sound reverberated like a loud gong in an enclosed arena, "Assemble at the conference room for the strategy meeting regarding the mission in Omega."
He then made his way to a nearby table and laid down several datapads that he had surreptitiously received from Ryan before entering the ship back at the Citadel. Nihlus wondered what was inside it but knew that they were password protected. Nihlus could have hacked into the datapads easily but he respected the privacy of his companions and the man who seemed to lead them.
Just then, Janus and Chelsea entered the room.
"Nihlus, it's nice of you to contact us about the meeting." Janus remarked when he noticed Nihlus.
"Yes, it is but as I recall, I seem to remember informing your companion, Chelsea over there, that there would be a strategy meeting an hour before we arrived at Omega." Nihlus pointed out as he glanced at Chelsea.
Chelsea realized that Nihlus did inform her and blushed, "It must have slipped my mind…"
"I see…" Nihlus muttered with a smirk, "Must be the company that kept you occupied."
"Hey…" Janus started to protest when the rest entered the room.
"Hey what's going on here, Nihlus?" Wrex asked as he looked at Nihlus and Janus as well as the still blushing Chelsea.
"It's none of your business, Wrex." Chelsea said, as she slapped her cheeks with her hands to regain control of her emotions.
"Anyway, that's not why I brought all of you here." Nihlus said, "We're here to discuss our battle plan regarding our entry into foray that is the revolution of Omega. Janus?"
Janus looked up in surprise, "What? You want me to inform everyone our plan?"
"You are the one leading this mission, correct?" Nihlus asked incredulously, "Ryan did appoint you as leader on this operation."
Janus glanced at everyone quickly before stepping forward, "Sorry, this just caught me off-guard."
"To point out the obvious, ever since the communication blackout from Omega, we have no idea what's happening over there right now." Janus informed them, "Regardless of that our primary objective is still the same. Take out the Blue Suns and Blood Pack and get back the drugs if possible. Destroy them if necessary."
"Getting a little dark are we, Janus?" Garrus pointed out.
"Not really." Janus answered with a smirk, "I just don't want those drugs to get off of Omega."
"What about the civilians?" Chelsea asked, "What are we going to do about them?"
"What civilians?" Wrex asked incredulously, "This is Omega, there are no civilians. Every one of them is a criminal of some kind."
"Wrex is right, there aren't a lot of innocents in Omega, Chelsea." Garrus added.
Janus looked at them all before sighing, "The both of you are right, but Chelsea is right. If there is any chance that we can save anyone, then we'll do what we can."
"This isn't a peace keeping mission, Janus." Nihlus pointed out.
"I know, but I'd be damned if I'm going to let someone die without reason." Janus answered evenly.
"It's your mission, Janus." Nihlus said with a smile.
"Now that we got that settled, what else do we need to know?" Aleena asked.
"We also need to rendezvous with my sister Nyreen and the Talons." Janus said before adding as an afterthought, "If we can contact Aria as well, it would make things easier."
"I can understand why we would need to meet up with Nyreen and Aria but why the Talons?" Shadow asked curiously.
"Ryan hired them earlier to protect Nyreen." Chelsea answered smugly.
"I see… so now that we know what we have to do, how are we going to do it? I don't think that we can barge in Omega unopposed in the middle of a revolution."
"That's right. So the first thing that we're going to do is secure the corridor leading to the spaceport. That way, we'll have a place to fall back into if necessary."
"Aside from ourselves, can we expect anyone else to help out?" Aleena asked.
"We'll be willing to help out, Miss, but we're not really trained for actual combat." The acting captain of the ship uttered.
"Don't worry about it captain, we just need you to ensure that the ship doesn't get captured by the Blue Suns or the Blood Pack." Nihlus informed him, "We'll handle the rest."
"So let's wrap this up?" Chelsea asked, looking around at everyone, "Or is there something more we need to discuss?"
"We should split up into different teams to handle the objectives." Aleena thought, "We can't all go together all the time. It's not suitable for our timetable."
"She's right. Splitting up is dangerous but it's the only viable option we have of securing Omega as quickly as we can." Garrus pointed out, "Also, it's easier for two or more people to move around conspicuously than for all us as a group to go around."
"Yeah, that kind of group just screams 'We are up to something.'." Wrex added with a laugh, "There are seven of us, excluding the Spectre, we can form three teams comfortably."
"Why am I excluded?" Nihlus asked them.
"I figured you would work better alone." Wrex smuggled, "You being a Spectre and all."
"I also work better alone." Shadow interrupted.
"Shadow's right." Aleena said, "He works best when alone. What about you, Nihlus? You want to team up or go solo?"
"I have some things I need to take care of, so it would be better if we'll go our separate ways as soon as we secure the space port. I'll meet you up at Afterlife after I've finished."
"Alright, so Shadow and Nihlus are going on their own, which leaves five of us." Janus opened out, "I'm going to have to ask Garrus to come with us, since we're going to need long range support."
"Us?" Garrus asked cheekily, "Sure, I'll babysit you and Chelsea, Janus."
"That's not what he meant, dofus." Chelsea retorted angrily, her cheeks blushing as the others chuckled at the scene.
"That's cute. Guess that leaves me and Aleena to team up once again." Wrex stated in a not so well-mannered justification.
"Guess I'll have to." Aleena answered with mock resignation, "The goddess only knows where Wrex will end up if he goes on his own in Omega."
"I resent that remark." Wrex huffed in indignation, "I'd never got lost here."
"Alright that's enough." Janus interrupted, "So the three of us will go find out where my sister is at."
"Me and Aleena will go see what's happening with Aria at Afterlife." Wrex said after thinking about it, "That's the best place for us to find out what's happening."
"Shadow, you think you can sneak into the Blue Suns territory and find out where they are keeping the drugs?" Janus asked.
"Consider it done." Shadow guaranteed.
"Alright, that's the end of this meeting then." Janus disclosed with a sigh, "Man that was tough."
"Before you leave, I have something for each of you from Ryan." Nihlus said before they could all leave the room.
Nihlus quickly gathered the datapads and handed them out to each of them, "Ryan said that the password for the datapad is your codename plus the day you first met."
The rest looked at each other as they held their own respective datapads before going their separate ways.
Nihlus approached Janus and congratulated him, "Congrats on your first successful mission briefing."
"Haha that's funny." Janus agreed with a wry smile, "It was nerve wracking."
"You think everything will work out the way you expect?" Nihlus gleamed with a questioning look.
"I can always hope that nothing bad will happen." Janus answered honestly, "But as Chelsea is fond of saying, "No Battle Plan Survives Contact with the Enemy.""
"I see…" Nihlus muttered softly, "That's what worries me."
January 25, 2173 – 4:00 AM
Omega – Communication's Facility
Matthew happily left his assigned room at the Communication's Facility as he made his way outside to report to his current commanding officer. His current assignment for Aria's outfit was providing security for this facility. It usually meant dull and tedious patrols with no excitement since Aria was feared by the other gangs in Omega that only a fool would try to attack the facility. Unaware about the current crisis that Omega was facing, Matthew was happy because one of his companions, a certain female mercenary finally welcomed his advances and promised a tantalizing rendezvous after their two-hour patrol at the perimeter. So he was fairly excited that his current assignment was especially dull. As he made his way outside, Matthew saw the object of his desire ahead of him. Matthew looked up and thanked whichever deity was responsible for putting her in his life, before making his way beside her.
"Hey there, beautiful, where are you off to in a hurry?"
"Hey there Matthew. Didn't notice you until you opened your mouth. I'm off to report to Falken for duty. What about you?"
"I'm on my way to meet Falken myself, Brigitte. Why don't we go to together?"
Brigitte tilted her head as she brought up her hand to her chin, looking as though she was deep in thought as she walked beside Matthew before grinning at him, "Nah, let's go for a race."
With that, Brigitte suddenly started to run ahead with Matthew following shortly after. They weaved in and out of several mercenaries as they ran towards the exit. Matthew was slowly gaining on Brigitte and was just about to pass her by when they realized that they had already reached the door.
"You're good, Matthew." Brigitte exclaimed as she took deep breaths.
"You cheated…" Matthew retorted, also taking deep breaths.
"All is fair in love and war, Matt." Brigitte said cheekily.
Matthew didn't say anything in response.
"Hey you two lovebirds finished yet?" A voice called out to them.
The both of them looked up and saw Falkner and the rest of their companions looking at them, several of which had amusing looks. Both Matthew and Brigitte quietly joined them although their cheeks had reddened slightly from being caught.
"Now that everyone's here, I'll assign your duty roster." Falkner informed them, "Bridge, you will be assigned to patrol the perimeter."
"I'm on it chief." Brigitte agreed as she grabbed the rifle from the weapon locker in front of Falkner before making her way to the perimeter, smiling briefly at Matthew as she passed by.
"Gunther, Gnash and Garth will be stationed at the gate, so you'll be the first to respond to anyone approaching the facility tonight." Falkner continued although Matthew was hardly paying attention as he focused his attention on Brigitte.
Brigitte felt as if someone was watching her. She took a halt and looked around carefully before suspecting that maybe the one watching her was Matthew.
"Silly man…" Brigitte mused to herself as she glanced behind her to see Matthew looking straight at her. Smiling to herself, Brigitte waved at Matthew.
Matthew was ecstatic when Brigitte suddenly stopped walking, glanced back at him and waved at him. Matthew smiled at her and was about to wave back at her when he thought he saw something at the corner of his eye. Before he could turn his head, he saw a large metal crate crash against Brigitte.
"BRIIIIIIIIIGGGGGGGGGGGIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIITTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" Matthew screamed as he ran towards her just as there was scream from behind him.
"WE'RE UNDER ATTACK!"
Author's Note: SOO SORRY FOR THE DELAY… The chapter took some time to write and the proofreading took about a month. Hopefully the next chapter will be up in less time. Also the proofreading was done by a member of "The Norsunian" a university newspaper. That said, hope you enjoy this chapter. Chapter 9 will be up sooner (hopefully) but won't be proofread because of semestral break.
Notable Original Characters of Mass Effect:
Ryan Tan (Human) [Command]
Shani (Quarian)
Chelsea McGee (Human) [Garnet]
Januarius "Janus" Kandros (Turian) [Havoc]
Sven Markelius (Human)
Shadow (Turian) [Ghost]
Kyle Ruark (Human)
Brett Ruark (Human)
William Ruark (Human)
Marcus "Deadshot" Arnel (Human)
Eshin Adus (Salarian)
Jayrus Viryn (Turian)
Canon Characters of Mass Effect:
Urdnot Wrex (Krogan) [Wrath]
Garrus Vakarian (Turian) [Archangel]
Nyreen Kandros (Turian)
Aleena (Asari) [Artemis]
Executor Venari Pallin (Turian)
Nihlus Kryik (Turian)
Dahlia Dantius (Asari)