Sorry for the long wait, I was preoccupied by other things, like playing the new Dead Space 3 game along with playing the last Mass Effect 3 DLC, man what a great end to an awsome game. Anyway here is the latest chapter, I hope everyone enjoys it.

December 9, 2685/2185

Normandy SR-2

Deck 1: Captain's Cabin

After the battle of Horizon, Shepard had to take a shower and clean himself from the sweat he built up on the ground. The only good thing being on a Cerberus-made frigate was that the Captain got his own bathroom. After he was done, he dried himself and put on his Cerberus dress uniform. As he did so, his thoughts wandered to a lot of things: the Collectors, Humans being abducted, and that Spartan that saved Shepard and his squad's ass. Most prominent of these thoughts were on Project Templar, but he didn't have time to think about everything—he still needed to stop the Collectors, and for that he still needed to recruit a few more people.

Deck 2: CIC

Shepard left the elevator and walked into the CIC, his first stop being the galaxy map. "Joker how long till we reach Illium?"

"Another twenty minutes give or take." said Joker over the intercom

Shepard nodded his head. "Let me know when we're getting close." Shepard then turned back to the elevator and headed down a level.

Deck 3: Crew Quarters

When the elevator stopped on Deck 3, Shepard walked out of it and headed to the Main Battery room where Shepard walked in on Toha working on the Normandy's weapons. The sangheili turned around and greeted commander. "Shepard, what can I do for you?"

Shepard leaned on the rails. "Just wanted your advice on the fight with the Collectors, your thoughts?"

Toha stopped what he was doing and looked at Shepard. The look on his face was the sangheili equivalent of a snarl. "They are cowardly to attack civilians, but they know how stand on their own against us. I believe we have a long journey ahead to defeat them."

Shepard nodded his head. "One way or the other we will stop the Collectors. It's been nice talking with you Toha, we'll talk more later." Shepard left Toha to his work and headed to the elevator.

Crescent Nebula

Tasale System

Illium

Nos Astra

When the Normandy dropped out of Slipspace, they were targeted by the planetary defenses but they were turned off allowing the Normandy to dock at the port in Nos Astra. At first, the Normandy crew was suspicious since this world is governed by the Asari, assuming that they were against Cerberus to the point they'd shoot them down, but did it anyway.

When the Normandy docked at the port, Shepard and his squad got off of the Normandy. He took with him Miranda and Jacob on this delicate mission. As he was about to begin an Asari with two Loki mechs arrived in front of his team. The Asari began welcoming Shepard and his squad. "Welcome to Nos Astra, Commander Shepard. We've been instructed to waive all docking and administration fees for your visit. My name is Careena, if you need information about the area, it would be my pleasure to aid you."

Shepard was little suspicious about the mechs. "That's a lot of fire power for a friendly welcome. Expecting trouble?"

"The OSA is at war with the Collectors, and your arrival here has caused a lot of people to be concerned about a future confrontation between you and the Collectors here on Illium…and messy one at that."

Shepard tried to relieve some concern. "You don't have to worry about the Collectors; I doubt they would attack Illium and start a war with the Asari just because I'm here. I'll admit that they have balls, doesn't mean they're stupid."

"Let us hope you are correct." said Careen unconvinced of what Shepard said. "Again welcome to our city Commander, please enjoy your stay." She then walked off, leaving Shepard with his squad.

"Well that was an interesting welcome from the locals." said Miranda

"They're just worried that we might bring our war to their doorstep, it's an understandable concern." replied Jacob

Shepard on the other hand was thinking about Liara and how she set herself up as an information broker. "We have two people to recruit, so let's stop wasting time and move out."

As Shepard and his squad begin walking, Caprica came on the comm. "Customs records show a justicar named Samara is visiting this port, Shepard. Your former teammate Liara T'soni may have more information. Her office overlooks the trading floor. You may wish to speak with her on about the whereabouts of Thane Krios, the assassin on your dossier, as well."

Shepard acknowledged Caprica's words and continued to the trading center. When they exited the docking port entrance they saw an amazing city over the horizon.

Miranda complemented the Asari. "You have to give the Asari credit; Illium is a cultural marvel, but ranked third in the galaxy. Elysium is ranked second and Bekenstein is ranked number one when it comes to the best trading and hotspot for best living."

Shepard then moved on into the trading area where the people of Illium traded or exchanged in stocks, but on one screen away from the stockholders was an extranet channel connected to Elysium. On the screen, it was broadcasting an event in what looked like a boxing ring with cages. All of a sudden there was a Human announcer appearing in the ring. "Welcome all to the Intergalactic All-Species Boxing Championship semi-finals! All proceeds go to charitable foundations. And now without further ado, allow me to introduce the fighters; in the blue corner, weighing one thousand five-hundred pounds, eager to kill anyone that looks at him the wrong way, and reigning champ for three years running, fighting to defend his title, the Jiralahanae Titus Icubus."There was a mixture of cheers and boos from the crowd. "And in the red corner, weighing in at a thousand pounds, known for his foul temper and love of ryncol, and challenging Incubus for the title of this year's Intergalactic All-Species Boxing Champion, Urdnot Dagg."

Shepard looks at Miranda with a questioning look, she sees this and explains. "Illium paid to allow all sports from Elysium to be showed here, so people can place bets on winners." He was not surprised by that; when it comes to gambling, every race seemed to be addicted to it. Shepard then moved on to Liara's office.

Liara's Office

When Shepard entered Liara's office, he saw her talking with a client. What came next was surprise even to him.

"Have you faced an Asari Commando unit before? Few Humans have. I'll make it simple, either you pay me, or I'll flay you alive with my mind." The client disconnected leaving Liara with a smile on her face, but soon disappeared when she realized, Shepard was here. "Shepard! Nyxeris, hold my calls." She walked up to her former Commander and gave him a welcome hug. "Ah... Shepard..." Liara then walked over to her desk and took a seat, Shepard followed and took the opposite side from her and sat down.

"My sources said you were alive, but I never believed... it's very good to see you."

"It's good to see you, too, Liara. How are you doing?" asked Shepard concerned about his Asari friend.

"I've done well. I've worked as an information broker. It's paid the bills since you... well, for the past two years. And now you're back, gunning for the Collectors with Cerberus."

Shepard was surprised about how much she knows. "That's not exactly public knowledge, well when it comes to Cerberus and me anyway."

"Neither is you being alive, Shepard. Information is my business now. And if you need information on finding people, I'm happy to help."

Shepard nodded his head and got to business. "I'm looking for two people to join my squad; one of them is Thane Krios. He's supposed to be here on Illium."

Liara off the top of her head remembered the name. "You're talking about the Drell assassin right? Yes, he arrived a few days ago. My sources tell me he may be targeting a corporate executive, Nassana Dantius. He contacted a woman named Seryna, who has an office in the cargo transfer levels, perhaps she can tell you where Krios is."

"The other person I'm recruiting is an Asari Justicar by the name of Samara; I hear that she's here on Illium. Do you know where I can find her?" asked Shepard moving on.

"Samara...yes, come to think of it, she just arrived recently and registered with Tracking Officer Dara. You can find Dara at the transportation hub."

Shepard was a little curious about why she needed to be tracked. "Why would Samara have to register with a tracking officer? Is she a criminal?"

"No, in fact she's the opposite. Samara is a justicar, an ancient sect of Asari warriors. Dara can tell you more."

"Thanks for the help. That's all I need to know."

Liara was happy to help. "Of course. If there's anything else I can help you with, let me know."

Shepard got up from his chair and walked out of Liara's office.

Cargo Transfer Levels

Shepard walked up to an Asari at her desk typing away on her console. "Seryna?" asked Shepard

The Asari didn't look up, but acknowledged Shepard's presences. "Who wants to know?"

Shepard didn't like the Asari's attitude and crossed his arms and leaned back a little. "Someone who can make your life a living hell."

Seryna just chuckled. "Huh... too late."

"Liara T'soni said you'd have information on Thane Krios. Am I wasting my time?" asked Shepard getting straight to the point.

Seryna got up from her chair and asked her friend to cover for her. She then directs Shepard and his squad away from anyone listening in. "Yeah, I know who Thank Krios is. I might have passed him some information, but I didn't hire him. What do you want to know?"

"I just need to talk to him." said Shepard

"Dangerous man to chat with. Your call, though." said Seryna looking at Shepard as if he was dead right where he stood. "I ran security for Nassana Dantius. Then I found out she was having people killed to cover up her dirty secrets. She fired me when I confronted her. Her loss; I might have been good enough to stop Thane from taking her down."

"Just tell me where I can find Thane." said Shepard

"The Dantius towers, penthouse level of tower one." She motioned Shepard over to the view and pointed out which tower it was in the city. "There's a second tower, still under construction. If Thane's smart, he'll go in from there."

"I'll find him." said Shepard trying to reassure everyone.

Seryna shook her head. "Not without some help. You don't just walk into the Dantius towers, especially now given Nassana's paranoia."

Miranda was suspicious. "But you've got a way in."

"I can get you in, but you'll only get one shot. You'd better be ready."

Shepard had no time to spare. "I'm ready now."

Seryna nodded her head. "That's what I like to hear. We'll go tonight, as soon as the shift workers clear out of tower two."

Dantius Tower

Penthouse

When Shepard arrived at the Dantius towers, he immediately took notice of Loki mechs and a mercenary squad gunning down Salarians. Shepard decided to help the Salarians out and from there he worked his way up the towers fighting Loki mechs and the higher mercenary squad until he reached the penthouse.

When Shepard walked into the penthouse a very paranoid Asari was very surprised to see him. "Shepard? But...you're dead."

Shepard had a grim smile on his face. "I got better."

"And now you're here to kill me." said Nassana suspicious of Shepard's sudden arrival.

"Maybe I just missed you." replied Shepard

"Screw you Shepard." said Nassana

"Charming as ever." said Shepard

"I'm sure you find this all very ironic. First you take care of my sister, and now your here for me." said Nassana on the offensive. "Well you made it this far. Now what?"

Shepard felt insulted to think he would waste his own time trying to kill her. "I wouldn't waste time hunting you down, Nassana. If I wanted you dead, I would've gunned you down now."

"What do you call this? You've practically destroyed my towers!" said Nassana angry at Shepard denying the accusation

"I wasn't looking for you."

"What the hell are you talking about?" asked Nassana "Is it credits? Is that what you want? Just name your price and we can make this problem go away."

Shepard thought about it and crossed his arms and leaned back a little. "Make me an offer."

Nassana grinned with an evil smile. "Double whatever you're getting. And I'll pay double again if you tell me who hired you." But just before Shepard responded, her hired security was panicking everywhere pointing their guns all over the place as if they were waiting for something to happen, Nassana noticed this. "What?"

The Asari commando who leads the security team looks at Nassana. "I heard something."

Nassana slammed her hands on her desk. "Damn it. Check the other entrances!" she then turned to Shepard. "You... stay put. When I'm finished dealing with this nuisance, you and I are going to…" But before she finished that sentence, a Drell dropped down from the air shafts and began silently killing Nassana's security team before setting his sights on her "...who...?" The Drell shot her in the stomach and placed her on the table with her hands crossed over her chest before clasping his hands together in prayer.

Shepard and his squad had their weapons out not taking any chances with an assassin, but after a while, Shepard put away his pistol and spoke up at the Drell. "I came a long way to talk to you."

Thane was not moved from his prayers. "One moment. Prayers for the wicked must not be forsaken."

Shepard was surprised anyone was going to pray for Nassana. "She certainly was wicked."

Thane then corrected himself. "Not for her. For me." Thane finished his prayers and walked up to Shepard. "The measure of an individual can be difficult to discern by actions alone. Take you, for instance, all this destruction...chaos." He stopped a few feet from Shepard. "I was curious to see how far you'd go to find me. Well...here I am."

"I do want to talk to you... but how did you know I was here?" asked Shepard

"I didn't until you walked up to the door and started shooting. Nassana had become paranoid, she thought one of her sisters had ordered her death." he walked up to Jacob who had his shotgun still trained on Thane. "You were a valuable distraction."

"Let's forget about you using me for a second. I need you for a mission." said Shepard not wanting to waste any more time.

"Indeed?" was all Thane said.

"You're familiar with the Collectors?" asked Shepard curious of Thane's knowledge.

Thane turned and walked back in front of Nassana's desk. "By reputation, and from what I hear about the OSA's war with them—your people are understandably calling for their blood."

"They're abducting entire OSA colonies, Freedom's Progress was their handiwork." said Shepard, still upset about it

"I see" said Thane taking everything Shepard said into mind

"We're going after them." said Shepard confident in himself and his team

Thane turned around looking at Shepard in the eyes. "Attacking the Collectors would require passing through the Omega 4 Relay. No ship has ever returned from doing so."

"They tell me it's a suicide mission. I intend to prove them wrong." replied Shepard with a confident grin on his face, Shepard then walked up to Thane and stood right beside him

"A suicide mission." said Thane thinking about the odds of surviving. "A suicide mission is not a good thing in my books, especially now that I have new lease on life." Thane looks at Shepard. "Thanks to the OSA."

Shepard was surprised by this. "The OSA? What do they have to do with me recruiting you for my mission?"

Thane turned his body to face Shepard. "I once had an incurable disease that was going to kill me, until the OSA negotiated a deal with the Hanar and allowed them to create a cure for us. I owe my life to them."

"So will you join us?" asked Shepard

Thane nodded his head. "I will work for you. No charge."

Normandy SR-2

Conference Room

Thane walked in the conference room where Shepard and Jacob were waiting. "I've heard impressive stories, Krios. Sounds like you'll be an asset to the team." Jacob then looked at Shepard. "That is, if you're comfortable having an assassin watch your back."

"I've accepted a contract. My arm is Shepard's." said Thane defending himself

"Uh-huh. Don't know about you, but I'm loyal to more than my next paycheck."

Shepard stepped in to break up the two. "Keep it civil people. We've all got the same goal. Maintain the objective!"

"Aye, aye, sir." said Jacob

"Where shall I put my things? I'd prefer someplace dry, if anything is available." said Thane ready to settle in

Caprica appeared in the room. "The area near life support plant on the crew deck tends to be slightly more arid than the rest of the ship."

Thane was not surprised by the presence of an AI, as it was well-known in all of Citadel space of the OSA's extreme use of AI's. Thane thanked Caprica and left to settle in.

Shepard turned to Jacob. "Jacob. We need him, but that doesn't mean I trust him. let me know if he becomes into a problem."

Jacob saluted Shepard and acknowledged the request.

Illium

Commercial Spaceport

Police Station

After Shepard got Thane settled on the Normandy, he returned to Illium to recruit Samara. After talking with tracking officer Dara, Shepard went to the commercial spaceport where he overheard people having a conversation about an Asari Justicar and the police. Shepard decided to check out the police station.

Once Shepard entered the station he was looked at by all the Asari in the station suspicious about a Human, Sangheili, and a Krogan in their station. Shepard walked over to a detective by the name Anaya.

Anaya took notice of the group heading her way. "Nice guns - try not to use them in my district. What can I do for you?"

Shepard was taken back a bit by her sudden offering to help. "Not surprised to see a Human and a Sangheili here on Illium?" said Shepard as he took a seat in front of her.

"All Asari police districts are given a heads up if OSA races that come to Illium so we don't cause a problem, but I'd never thought you come to my district." said Anaya with a sigh of annoyance. "So again what can I do for you?"

"I'm looking for an Asari warrior named Samara?" asked Shepard

Anaya was not to pleased to hear that. "If you have a score to settle with Samara, take it somewhere else - I've got more than enough trouble here already."

"I need to recruit Samara for my mission, and then we'll be on our way." said Shepard

"Justicars usually work alone, but they are drawn to impossible causes." siad Anaya

Toha then spoke up behind Shepard. "It will not be impossible as long as Shepard leads us."

Anaya wasn't going to waste this opportunity. "If you're getting her out of my district, I'll get you to her ASAP. She's at the crime scene."

Shepard was surprised by this. "You're letting her into a sealed crime scene?"

"I'll work with a Justicar all I can. Besides, she's been looking at crime scenes longer than our two life spans combined. She knows how to handle herself." said Anaya

"You're awfully anxious to get Samara out of your district." said Shepard

"My bosses want me to detain her. They're worried she'll cause a cross-species incident, but her Justicar code won't let her be taken into custody. If I try it, she'll have to kill me. I have no interest in dying, so if you lure her away with some big noble cause before I have to carry out my orders, I'm thrilled to help you."

Shepard was surprised by this information. "Samara would kill a cop? That doesn't sound very just."

"She would die defending an honest cop, but she'd fight an army of dirty cops to the death. I admire her dedication, but her presence is still a big problem. I need her gone before I have to carry out my orders." said Anaya

"How do I get to the crime scene?" asked Shepard

"It's around the corner - go outside, take a left. Look for the police line. I'll send word to let you in. Be careful—the Terminus Coalition keeps a presence here on Illium, a small group lead by an Asari."

Shepard thanked Anaya and got up from his chair and walked out of the station.

Commercial Spaceport

Crime Scene

When Shepard walked into the crime scene, the first thing he saw was an Asari flying across the room and slamming hard against the wall. Shepard looked around and saw Samara facing against another Asari. After they were done talking, Samra sent her flying from the upper levels to the lower ones where Shepard and his squad were, she then floated down using her biotics, walked up to the Asari, and killed her.

Shepard was surprised to see how Samara just killed her without hesitating, but ignored it for now. Shepard walked carefully up to her.

Samara noticed the group approaching her. "My name is Samara, a servant of the Justicar code. My quarrel is with these TC mercenaries, but I see three well armed people before me. Are we friend? Or foe?"

"I'm Commander Shepard, and I need your help with a critical mission, Samara." said Shepard

"You honor me. But I am in the middle of an investigation." Said Samara determined to finish it.

"I'm going up against suicidal odds, and I need the best -that's you." said Shepard insistent on adding Samara to his team.

"I sense the truth in what you say, and it humbles me. But I seek an incredibly dangerous fugitive." replied Samara as she walks around retelling her story. "I cornered her here, but these TC sisters have smuggled her off-world. I must find the name of the ship she left on before the trail goes cold."

"I wish you were willing to go with the Human, Justicar, I've been ordered to take you into custody if you won't leave." said Anaya as she walked into the crime scene

"You risk a great deal by following your orders, Detective. Fortunately, I will not have to resist. My code obligates me to cooperate with you for one day. After that, I must return to my investigation." said Samara

Anaya was not reassured. "I won't be able to release you that soon."

"You won't be able to stop me." said Samara

Shepard then stepped in. "There must be some way we can all get what we need."

"I see a way. While I'm in custody, I must ask that you find the name of that ship. Do that and the code will be satisfied; and I will join you."

"Do you have any leads?" asked Shepard

"The Volus merchant, Pitne For, is tied to this. TC mercs are preparing to kill him. Get the truth out of him. He may know the way into the merc base."

Anaya then walked up to Samara and took her to the station, leaving Shepard to investigate.

Police Station

After Shepard mangaed to get the information from Pitne For, he assualted the TC base and not only recovered the ship name, but also recovered some evidence for Ayana.

Shepard walked into the police station and walked up to Samara. "I've got the name of the ship. Your fugitive left here two days ago on the AML Demeter."

Samara was surprised of how a human mangaed to get what she needed. "Shepard, you impress me. You fulfilled your part of the bargain, and I will fulfill mine." Samara got up from her sitting position and stood strong in front of everyone and looked at Ayana. "I am ready to leave immediately. Will that satisfy your superiors, Detective?"

Ayana was happy to hear that. "You're free to go, Justicar, it has been an honor having you in my station. And it's nice you didn't kill me, too."

"The Normandy is docked near the main trading floor. I'll see you aboard." said Shepard

"I must be sworn to your service, so that I am never forced to choose between your orders or the Code." Samara kneeled down. "By the Code I will serve you, Shepard. Your choices are my choices, your morals are my morals. Your wishes are my Code."

"I never thought I'd see a Justicar swear an oath like that." Said Ayana

"If you make me do anything extremely dishonorable, I may need to kill you when I am released from my oath." said Samara with a look of seriousness in her eyes

Shepard understood how serious this was for Samara and didn't take it lightly. "I understand how serious this is for you and I am honored you trust me."

Samara was happy to hear that. "I'm glad to hear it. I will fight by your side, kill your enemies, and protect your friends. Shall we return to your ship?" asked Samara

Shepard turned to Ayana and handed her all the information about her own investigation and left with the others.

Liara's Office

Shepard walked into Liara's office and was greeted by her. "Shepard it's good to see you again."

Shepard took a seat in front of Liara. "Feeling's mutual, but I'm not here for a social call." said Shepard with seriousness in his voice. "Liara come with me, I could use your help on the Normandy."

Liara's surprise was of shock and happy that Shepard would need her, but shook her head. "I can't, Shepard. I'm sorry. I have commitments here. Things I need to take care of."

Shepard was curious about Liara's sudden change in attitude. "What kind of things you need to take care of? Are you in trouble?"

Liara got up from her seat and walked to her window, "No, no trouble. But it's been a long two years. I have things to do while you were gone. I have debts to repay." Liara then turned around away from the window. "Listen, if you want to help. I need someone with hacking expertise, someone I can trust." She took a seat behind her desk. "If you could disable security at key points around Illium, you could get me the information I need. That would help me a great deal."

Shepard didn't take time to think about it and agreed to it, he left to help Liara out.

Liara's office 1 hour later

Shepard came back into Liara's office after the hacking was done. "Thank you for getting me that system data. Here it's not much, but hopefully it will help you on your mission."

Liara and Shepard then took their seats opposite of each other. "Do you remember the Shadow Broker? With the data you got me, I may be able to find information caches from his agents."

Shepard was really surprised by this. "How could I not know him, he's working for the Collectors which makes him and his organization an enemy of the OSA, it will only be a matter of time before we stop him and his associates."

Liara shakes her head. "You underestimate the Shadow Broker Shepard, he's been in power for over sixty years, no one knows who he is, some believe it's a group operating under one name."

"Are you on the run from the Shadow Broker? I can help you." asked Shepard concern for his friend

"Actually, it would be more accurate to say the Shadow Broker is on the run from me." Liara then brings up the last two years of what happened. "We crossed paths not long after you died, since then I've been trying to take him down. With this data, I'm one step closer."

Shepard could hardly believe this was Liara, he knew two years ago. Her eyes showed the harsh killing intent to gun down a person. "I've never seen you ready to execute someone in cold blood. What did the Shadow Broker do to you?"

Liara got up from her chair and recalls the events that led her to become an information broker. "I was on a job with a friend. The Shadow Broker's people caught us. My friend didn't escape. I don't know if he's dead or being interrogated. But I need to find him. I owe him my life. And I need to make the Shadow Broker pay for what he did."

Shepard was a little suspicious of Liara and dug a little deeper. "I think there's more you're not telling me."

Liara got up from her seat and looked out the window. "Did Cerberus ever tell you how they recovered your body?" Shepard didn't say anything as he did not know. "I gave it to them, I gave you to them Shepard. Because they said they could rebuild you. And to do that I had to take it from the Shadow Broker, who was going to sell your corpse to the Collectors."

Shepard could hardly believe it. "Why didn't you tell me this?"

Liara was upset to explain herself, but did anyway. "Because I screwed it up Shepard, I barely escaped with my own life. And when I gave you to Cerberus, I told myself I was doing it for you, for a chance to bring you back." Liara then took a moment, before responding. "I couldn't let you go Shepard, I'm sorry."

"You did the right thing, Liara. My mission is too important. I couldn't do it if you hadn't given me to Cerberus." said Shepard

Liara was happy to hear that. "Thank you I...I was afraid you'd hate me. So that's why I must destroy the Shadow Broker. For what he did to my friend, and to you, and whatever he's doing with the Collectors."

"Be careful out there, Liara. Don't turn into the thing your hunting." said Shepard concerned about his friend

"I promise that won't happen, Shepard and thank you."

Shepard got up from his chair and walked out of Liara's office.

Far Rim

Dholen System

Haestrom

Orbit

UNSC Normandy- SR2

When the Normandy dropped out of Slipspace Caprica immediately detected Geth in the system and cloaked the Normandy. Joker pulled the Normandy in orbit of the planet and released the shuttle, Shepard took with him Garrus and Jack for this mission.

Haestrom

The shuttle landed safely in a covering area away from the intense radiation that bleeds through Haestroms weak magnetosphere. Shepard and his squad disembarked from the shuttle and landed safely on the ground.

Caprica came on the radio soon after. "Shepard our data indicates that Tali is somewhere in these ruins. There is considerable Geth activity, and an environmental hazard. Solar output has overwhelmed Haestrom's protective magnetosphere. Exposure to direct sunlight will damage your shields."

Shepard took his squad and moved on. After a while they came by a door that was easy to unlock, but soon a Geth dropship came over and dropped some Geth on the field forcing Shepard and his squad to take cover. They moved to some boulder and took cover from Geth fire. Garrus pulled out his sniper rifle and began taking down the Geth shields, while Jack sent out biotic attacks that sent the Geth flying, Shepard moved through cover, taking a Geth out one at a time.

When it was over they regrouped and moved on ahead. Aftercrossing much of the old city and killing a few Geth along the way, Shepard came across a radio that still worked with a Quarian named Kal'reegar. "OP-1 this is squad leader Kal'reegar, come in, over!"

Shepard picked up the radio. "This is Commander Shepard of the Normandy. Can we provide assistance?"

"Patch your radio into channel 617 Theta. We were on a stealth mission. High risk. We found what we were after, but the Geth found us. They've got us pinned down. Can't get to our ship, can't transmit data through the solar radiation." said Kal'reegar

"How are you holding up we can be there in a few minutes." said Shepard

"Take it slow and careful. Direct sunlight fries your shields all to hell. We've bunkered down at base camp across the valley. I left Tali'Zorah at a secure shelter, then doubled back to hold the chokepoint. Getting Tali out safely is our top priority. If you can extract her, we'll keep them off you."

"Hold position will hit their back ranks." said Shepard thinking strategically

"Wait! Watch your ass! We've got a dropship coming in!"

The dropship moved into position and took shots at the pillar and Quarian marines. The Quarian marines were killed and the pillar blocked the entrance. Kal'reegar suggested to Shepard to use demo charges to clear the path, but Shepard had a different idea. "Caprica equip a drop pod with some C-7 explosives."

In that moment from the sky came down a canister, it was a length of 2.76 meters (9.06 feet) painted in olive green drab. Shepard walked up to the capsule and opened it and pulled out the explosives and planted them on the pillar, after he set the timer and stepped back a few feet away, the C-7 exploded making a path to the door.

Quarian Base Camp

After Shepard bypassed the locked door, he stepped inside and saw Quarian and Geth bodies everywhere, but one Geth was still moving towards him. He took out his pistol and shot the Geth in the flashlight, ending it right then and there.

Shepard walked around looking around the old room for anything useful. "Why are the Quarians here? I thought the Senate forbade Quarians from ever interfering with the Geth when they joined the OSA?" asked Garrus

Shepard was wondering that to. "They're not interfering with the Geth, they came here on a mission, but will find out more when we get to Tali."

After looking around a transmission appeared, it was Tali trying to make contact with her team. "Tali'Zorah to base camp, come in base camp."

Shepard walked up to the comm terminal and connected to Tali, she appeared as a hologram on his side. "Tali, it's Shepard. I'm sorry. Everyone is dead. Any survivors must have fallen back."

"We knew this mission was high-risk. Damn it." said Tali upset at the whole thing. "And what are you doing here, Shepard? We're in the middle of Geth space!"

"I could ask the same about you. The Senate forbid the Quarians from ever interfering with the Geth when they joined the OSA." asked Shepard

Tali shook her head. "We're not interfering with the Geth, we're here on a scientific purpose, I'll tell you more about it when this is over. Kal'reegar and what's left of the marines got me into the observatory. From where you are, it's through the door and across the field. I got the data I needed, and I'm safe for now, but I've got a lot of Geth outside."

"What's this research data you have?" asked Shepard

"It's about this world's sun. It's aging faster than it should. I can tell you more about it once we've got fewer Geth shooting at us."

Shepard looked at the door across from him. "It looks like somebody sealed the door against the Geth and the console is damaged. Can you get it open on your end?"

"Let me see... Yes, I can do it. Here, Should be unlocked now. Be careful, Shepard. And please, do what you can to keep Reegar alive.

As Shepard and his squad were getting ready to leave, Garrus had to speak his mind. "So the Quarians risked their people just to get some data on this planets sun? I don't see the point. But why do you think this sun is aging faster?"

Shepard didn't have the answer to that. "I don't know, let's hope Tali has the answer."

"Can the OSA do something about it?" asked Garrus curious at what the OSA can do.

Shepard shook his head. "Were advanced, but the only race that could repair this were the Forerunners, but they're all dead.

Second Bunker

After crossing the field and defeating a Geth hunter and drones, Shepard made it to the second bunker and lowered the blast doors. To his surprise was a Geth Colossus that took aim and fired at the group, Shepard and his squad duck for cover. "Just like old times, Shepard." said Garrus

Shepard and his squad walked out of the bunker and headed to a Quarian with a rocket luancher. "Over here get to cover," said the Quarian

Shepard and squad took cover next to the Quarian. "Squad leader Kal'Reegar, Quarian Marines. We talked on the radio before that dropship arrived. Still got no idea why you're here, but this ain't the time to be picky." said Kal'Reegar as he took cover from the colossus. "Tali's inside over there. The Geth killed the rest of my squad, and they're trying to get to her. Best I've been able to do is draw their attention."

"Are you sure she's still alive?" asked Shepard

"The observatory is reinforced. Even the Geth will need time to get through it. And it's hard to hack a door when someone's firing rockets at you." said Reegar proud of what he was doing. "The Geth are near platoon strength, but the colossus is the worst part. It's got a repair protocol. Huddles up and fixes itself. I can't get a clear shot when it's down like that. And when I try getting closer the Geth will just surround me."

"Stay here, I'll handle it." said Shepard, but Reegar wasn't going to have that.

"I don't think so, my mission is to protect Tali, and I need to avenge my squad." said Reegar as he got up and started firing his rocket launcher.

Shepard then stood up pushed Reegar to the side. "Stand down soldier, I can't have you being a loose cannon on the field right now while I'm trying to save Tali."

Reegar didn't like what Shepard was telling him, but didn't have a choice. "Fine, I'll hang back while you go and save Tali."

Shepard ran out on the field and took a left to give him some cover from the colossus, but waves of Geth were heading his way. Shepard and Jack used their biotics to blast their way to the colossus and once they finally reached it took awhile but the colossus was destroyed, Shepard then took his squad into the observatory to see Tali.

Observatory

When Shepard walked into the observatory he saw Tali working at a console, she was finishing downloading the last bit of data. Shepard walked up to her. "Thank you, Shepard. If not for you, I would never have made it out of this room. This whole mission has been a disaster. I wish I'd joined you back on Freedom's Progress, but I couldn't let anyone take my place on something this risky."

"A lot of Quarians lost their lives here. Was it worth it?" asked Shepard

"I don't know, Shepard. It wasn't my call. Our people's top scientists believed the information here was worth sacrificing all our lives for. I have to believe that they know what's best."

"What can you tell me about your research here?" asked Shepard

Tali brought up her Omni-tool. "Haestrom's sun is destabilizing. Back when this was a Quarian colony, it was a normal star. It shouldn't change that quickly."

"Any Idea what's destabilizing the sun?" asked Shepard

"If I had to guess, I'd say it was dark energy affecting the interior of the star. The effect is similar to when stars blow off mass to enter a red giant phase, but Haestrom's sun is far too young for this to be natural. Our people are hoping the OSA may have something to fix this."

Shepard shook his head. "The OSA maybe the most advanced group in the galaxy, but the only ones who could ever help restore this star were the Forerunners. Sorry Tali, the OSA don't have the means to fix this. But I'm glad I could help." said Shepard walking around looking at the observatory

"So why are you here?" asked Tali

Garrus jumped in. "Isn't it obvious! We came here to get you for the mission."

Shepard turned around and looked at Tali. "I could use you on the Normandy."

"I promised to see this mission through. I did. I can leave with you and send the data back to Tikkun. And if my superiors have a problem with it, they can go to hell. I just watched the rest of my team die."

"Maybe not the whole rest of your team, ma'am." said Kal'Reegar as he limped into the observatory.

"Reegar! You made it!" said Tali happey to see one of her team still alive

"Your old captain's as good as you said. Damn colossus never stood a chance."

"If need be the Normandy can get you out of here, Reegar."

"The Geth didn't damage our ship. Long as we get out of here before reinforcements show up, we'll be fine."

"Actually, I won't be going with you. I'm joining Commander Shepard."

"I'll pass the data to the tech heads back on Tikkun. She's all yours now, Shepard keep her safe

Cronos Station

After the mission, Shepard was immediately called by TIM into the conference room, as always, Shepard walked over the lowered table and appeared as a hologram.

TIM was standing up instead of siting in his chair, smoking on his cigeratte. "Shepard - we caught a break. I intercepted a distress call from a Turian patrol. They stumbled onto a Collector ship beyond the Korlus system. The Turians were wiped out, but not before they crippled the Collector vessel. I need you to board that ship and get some hard data on the Collectors. Find us a way to get to their homeworld."

Shepard was skeptical. "Hard to imagine a Turian patrol could take out a Collector ship."

"Reports indicate the hull's intact, but all systems seems to be offline. They could be making repairs as we speak. I'm not saying it won't be dangerous, but we can't let an opportunity like this slip by."

"If they had a patrol out there, why aren't the Turians sending a recon team?" asked Shepard still a suspicious

"They will. Eventually. But I intercepted the transmissions. In the meantime we're feeding them false reports. You're close enough that you could be in and out before the Turians learn the truth."

"Are you sure this information is good?"

TIM almost felt insulted, Shepard would ask that question. "Information is my weapon, Shepard. It's good."

"Why are we trying to get information on the Collectors from their ships, I thought by now we would already have it."

TIM took a drag from his cigarette before responding. "When this war started, we attempted to sneak aboard Collector ships during battles, but they either self destruct their ships or completely wiped out their databanks of information."

Shepard found that funny. "It seems to me like they're taking a page from our history books, and applying it against us. Send me the coordinates."

"It's already sent. Once you're aboard the ship, establish an uplink with Caprica. She'll mine their data for information regarding the Omega 4 Relay. Good luck, Shepard." TIM disconnected the transmission.

Normandy SR-2

Conference Room

"Coordinates punched in. Lets' go find us a Collector ship." said Joker over the intercom

Shepard nodded his head and went to CIC to prepare for this hopefully easy mission.

So now it's off to the Collector ship. I hope you all liked this chapter, I know I cut out a lot of things in this story, but I wanted to be quick and get it out on the site for everyone to read. Anyway I hope you all continue reading my story and the next hopefully will be up sooner then later. Thank you all again.