Nate POV
In this room stand my closest friends. Varying races from Asari to Turian, Krogan to Quarian, Drell to Human. Rylee Shepard, Garrus Vakarian, Liara T'Soni, Urdnot Grunt, Tali Zorah, Thane Krios, Jacob Taylor, James Vega, Kasumi Goto, Kelly Chambers, Samantha Traynor, Javik, Kaidan Alenko, Miranda Lawson, Jacqueline Nought. I am about to attempt a therapy that could alleviate my conscience according to Liara's father. Garrus and Kaidan already know but no one else does. They are each looking at me, filled with anticipation.
"Okay guys, I called all of you here for a reason. I'm sure a lot of you don't know this but I'm sick both physically and mentally, but they aren't separate." I announced "I'm suffering from something called Broken Heart Syndrome. I know it sounds stupid but I am, it causes me to have heart attack like events every once in a while when my mood is bad enough" not all of them knew but the ones who didn't looked worried
"What! Why didn't you tell me?" Rylee asked, the hurt evident in her eyes
"I didn't want to worry you. I'm sorry" I apologised but she just shook her head
"It's as it sounds, it's caused by a broken heart, or more accurately an extreme depression. After a couple of years of denying that there was something wrong with me, I finally admitted it. And that was 2 years ago and for the next couple of years I though myself beyond help." I then took a deep breath "But lately the attacks are getting worse. I had one of my biggest attacks a few days ago, it was the closest I've been to dying" I stated, the horror on Rylee's eyes was evident, not that she even attempted to hide it
"I have attacks regularly, but those are minor I can deal with those with little trouble" it was Garrus and Kaidan's turn to look surprised "A few days ago after my attack, Garrus, Kaidan and I decided that I should seek a therapists help so today me and Garrus did some searching and came up with Matriarch Aethyta T'Soni" everyone turned to Liara and she smile sheepishly "She advised that I relay the cause of my grief to my closest friends. Each of whom is in this room right now" almost everyone smiled at this information, Jack looked surprised as hell, I guess she really didn't believe it when I said she is one of my closest friends, maybe now she'll believe me. "This happened four years ago. But to understand why it affected me so badly you've got to know the whole story"
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8 years earlier
What's mum and dad's problems, just because the little brat is bored, I've got to take her to the park. This is why I hate being the older brother to a sister. My parents always give her what she wants just because she's 8. I should be at Kaidan's house right now playing the new Dragon ball Z game but nooo. The little princess gets bored and all of my plans get derailed. I hate how she's singing right now, some annoying kids song as she skips besides me. I was seriously considering ditching her right now but then my parents would get mad.
I hate the park. It's always filled with old ladies and their toddlers crying whenever they scraped their knees and big kids looking to bully the little ones. Today it's a little bit emptier apart from a few kids and parents. The moment she got in she ran for the swings.
"Nate can you push me" she asked
"No, you can do it yourself"
"Pleeeeeaaaase" I hate it when she does that because it usually means I do what she asks
"You're a really annoying brat you know that" I complained as I pushed the swing. She started laughing the higher she got. Man, leave it to her to ruin a perfectly bad mood, a smile crept onto my face. I heard giggling beside me and I turned to see a girl sitting on the park bench.
"Wanna let me in on the joke" I asked
"Nothing… you really know how to put your foot down" she said
"Rylee listens to me and I can say no to her"
"Sure you can" she teased "So, Nate why are you here since when you walked in it looked like this was the last place you wanted to be"
"You know my name?"
"Your little sister Rylee said it"
"She was bored and my parents asked me to take her here" I stated and she raised an eyebrow "What?"
"It's funny because that's why I'm here too with my sisters. Abby, Lynn and Sarah" she said pointing to the three girls playing on the roundabout. "We just moved here and I was meant to go to my cousin's house"
"I was meant to go to my friends place…. What's your name?"
"Ashley Williams"
"Nathan Shepard"
"Nate can you push me again!" Rylee shouted. I just sighed
"You know she just wants to spend time with you" Ashley acknowledged
"Yeah but why so much" I joked and she started laughing. I like her laugh.
That's how I met her. I spent the rest of the day talking to her and getting to know her. It turned out the she was Kaidan's cousin and she'd be attending our school so I would get to see a lot more of her, something I was glad about
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2 years later
Ashley, Kaidan and I enrolled for Commando training together after my dad encouraged me to do it. I met this Turian there called Garrus, he's a sniper but he's also pretty good hand to hand. He was one of my roommates along with Kaidan. His sarcasm got on my nerves at first and we were constantly at odds, we were very close to trying to kill each other. That was until a bunch of students started harassing Kaidan and I about being biotics, he stood up for us even though we didn't even like each other. From that point on we started talking and realised that we have a lot in common like wanting to become spectres. We all attended the secondary school on the Silversun Strip.
Ashley POV
Man Nate is clueless. I've been giving off hints and signals that I like him but he always ignores them. The worst part is that he's always flirting with those plastic barbies that prance around in miniskirts and tank tops. He doesn't seem to ever see me as anything other than a friend. And worst of all he sees me as a guy friend. Maybe it's because I'm too mannish or muscular or ugly or whatever.
"Mom, can you help me with something?" I asked. My mom was just watching some military program
"I'm trying to get someone's attention… I think I need your help"
"Really, who is this person?"
"No one you know" I dismissed hoping she wouldn't start guessing
"So you want Nate to notice you" she stated with a smirk. My eyes bulged with surprise "Oh please, even Sarah and Rylee know you like him. The only one who doesn't is Nate"
"Oh God" I sighed falling onto her lap
"It's okay to like someone… now what help do you need?"
I'm not sure about how my mom is going to react to what I'm about to ask but I still have to try "Can you show me how to apply make-up" I asked looking away from her so she couldn't see my blush
"Ashley you're 12" she dismissed. I then started to plead with my mom for about 20 minutes until she finally gave in. I'm not entirely sure if it was to get me to shut up or whether she saw the sincerity in my eyes.
I sat there on that spot for 20 minutes as my mom applied makeup to my face when a knock came at the door. I got up and looked at the camera aimed outside. Oh shit it's Nate, Kaidan and Garrus.
"Ash hurry up" Nate hollered
"Uhh… I'm go without me. I'm gonna be late" I spoke through the camera
"Is something wrong" Kaidan asked concernedly
"No…. I'm just doing something for my mom" I lied
"OK see ya at school" Nate called out as they made their way towards the Hyper Train
It took about another 10 minutes until my mom was satisfied. She brought a mirror from her room and showed me the end result. Oh My God. I look like a freaking clown. The red lipstick, light foundation and mascara make me look like a rodeo clown. I felt like crying.
Mom must have sensed my distress "You look beautiful, believe me" she reassured "It's only light so don't worry. It's also waterproof so don't worry" she began looking at me thoughtfully, circling around me. Before I could react she undid the buns that I usually had my hair in and it fell down my back. "Let's just brush that hair now". She spent another 5 minutes brushing my hair trying to make it perfect.
Oh well I just have to trust her judgement on this matter. I left my house a few minutes later wearing my special issue N7 hoodie, black fatigue trousers and boots. On the way to school I was getting weird looks from people around me. Some had sly smiles tugging at the corner of their lips and some had smirks. For the most part all attention was on me. I must really look funny with makeup if people are eyeing me up this way. As the school came into focus I had lost my nerve. I pulled my hoodie over my head to conceal my face and hair.
I had just missed registration and form time so the hallway was packed with students trying to get to class. I made my way over to my locker which was right next to Nate's. He was taking some books out of it right now so I could hide behind my locker door.
"Hey Ash" he greeted "You ready for English" he asked
"Yeah I'm stoked" I replied awkwardly. Stoked really, I am such a loser. Why is it he's the one person who can make me feel like this?
"Did you just say stoked?" he smirked
"Drop it Shepard" I threatened
"Sure thing Williams" he replied before he started sniffing the air "Are you wearing perfume" he asked. I always wear perfume or doesn't he ever notice. I shook my head before realising I was still hiding behind the door so he wouldn't see me
"No"
"Something smells like strawberries" I acknowledged. I licked my lips quickly. Great he can smell my lipstick
"Maybe you're smelling things" wow that was lame
"Hmm maybe" he guessed. I shoved my head in the locker hoping he would leave before getting a good look at me.
All of a sudden I heard a female voice from beside him and then some flirtatious laughing. When I removed my head I could see that bitch Maya Brooks flirting with him and he was falling for it hook, line and sinker. Doesn't he realise just how much it hurts me to see him going for these plastic barbies who don't care about him beyond what's in his boxers. I closed my locker violently and made a beeline for my English class.
"Calm down man-hands" Brooks cussed "Why are you wearing a hoodie indoors. Do you think you're cool or something?" she spat, her eyes wondered over to my head "Or maybe you're covering your ugly mug" she accuse before removing my hood and revealing my new look to everyone in the school. I looked around in horror as familiar looks from before on the street returned only this time there were a few jaws dropped especially Nate's.
I did the only thing I knew how to do at that moment. I ran. I ran fast and far, I had no idea where I was going or what I'm going to do when I got there, but I just wanted to get as far away from Nate as possible. I wound up on the roof, where I proceeded to cry my eyes out. Nathan Shepard has reduced me to this, a crying, shy, coy teenage girl. And he did all this by being so damned dependable, funny, sweet, sexy, likeable…. I'm trying to get angry at him but I can't. I've had a crush on him since I saw him. But all he's ever seen me as is a friend.
I could hear footsteps running. They were getting closer very quickly and I decided to hide
"ASH" Nate hollered. I remained silent wishing he would just leave me alone. No I didn't. I just wished he would feel the same way I do for him.
"I'm not leaving until you come out" he informed me and I let out a muffled groan. Apparently it was just loud enough for him to hear. His footsteps grew closer, inch by inch, and step by step before he stood in front of me. I could see that his face was contorted with concern through the cracks of my fingers as I feebly made an attempt to cover up the damage my mom had done.
"Get up" he instructed and I complied, still covering my face up.
"Let's see that face" he urged gently removing my hands from my face. I squeezed my eyes shut so I couldn't see his reaction. He was probably stopping himself from laughing to spare my feelings.
I could feel the heat coming off of his body as his face neared my ear. His hot breath gently glazing my skin. "You look beautiful" he whispered. I opened my eyes just in time to see an arrogant smirk grace his lips.
"Really" I said barely speaking, almost so quiet he couldn't here.
"Yes" he whispered back. I was struggling to keep the tears from falling
"You've always looked beautiful. Even without make-up" he complimented before doing something I never thought he would do.
"I'm going to kiss you now" he whispered before his lips melded with mine. It wasn't rough or forced but it was tender and soft. I couldn't react at first as I was in shock as to what was happening. The guy I've wanted for that past few years is kissing me and I'm not kissing him back. I gladly returned his gesture. I pulled him in closer so that we could enjoy it. But just before I could really put some passion into it.
"NATE YOU UP HERE. MR TARVER IS CALLING FOR YOU" Kaidan bellowed. I swear to god I'm gonna kick his ass when we get home. Regrettably we had to part. The grin he offered me was enough for me to know that he enjoyed it.
"I'm going to kick his ASS" he growled still smiling. And I started giggling like a love-struck teenager. He stared deep into my eyes, looking past the superficial beauty, into what is beneath. "I've wanted to do that ever since I met you. Ashley I really like you and I want you to go out with me" he said.
"What about Brooks and the others. They're beautiful, why pick me over someone like that Samantha Traynor" I asked
"Well from talking to her I'd say you've got a better shot than I do" he smirked. Wow, didn't know she swung that way.
"And as for the others…." He looked flustered "Well this is embarrassing" would you just spit it out already "To be honest… I only flirted with them to make you jealous" he admitted. So this entire time he's wanted me as badly as I've wanted him.
I wrapped my arms around him and planted a quick kiss "That is so sweet" I smiled, that smirk of his came back. I then punched him in the stomach "That's for waiting so long to tell me. And for making me jealous" I made my way to the stairwell
"Hurry up. We're gonna be late" I called.
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That's the day that she became my girlfriend. After years of being subtle a moment of bravery was what I needed. Like any couple we had our share of fights, I mean it was inevitable. She's stubborn, outspoken and independent. I was stubborn, arrogant and didn't know when to keep my mouth shut. It got ugly occasionally but never as it too serious. For the most part it was the best years of my life. There was so much laughter, teasing, kissing, joking…confessing. We were going strong for 2 years. That was when I lost her.
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Cerberus HQ
Unspecified Location
The Illusive man paces around his office, not out of nerves or impatience but anticipation. Sifting through information determining what was useful and not. Making deals with the right people. Waiting for the right moment to unleash what the galaxy needed.
A smile crept in on his face as the burning suns light touched his face. The intricate designs of his eyes dilated as destiny neared
"Execute"
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4 years ago
My father had died a couple of months earlier during the Blitz. So he wouldn't be an instructor at the Commando Training camp for the first time since I had started. As usual Kaidan, Garrus, Ashley and I decided to attend. We were the best in they had to offer and even better than some a few adults. Us and two others. An asari and Saren. Because of our aptitude we were able to accompany leaders on low risk operations, but they made a major mistake. There's a very good reason as to why I hate that piece of shit.
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Nate POV
Tuesday 26th July 2185
I'm staring at the ceiling, in a dark but warm room. Kaidan and Garrus were out camping so I faked being sick. As did the beautiful girl lying beside me. She's gently snoring, her chest moving up and down with each breath. Her hair which was normally in a bun was now scattered on the pillow in a chaotic manor. We could get thrown out if we get caught, this was considered fraternisation and that was grounds for expulsion. And I don't care. We could get caught right now and that wouldn't matter, I would proudly tell the instructors that the reason for this is that. I love Ashley Williams.
I don't get it. I'm perfectly happy, hell I'm happier than I've ever been in my life in no small part to the sleeping form beside me. But I can't go to sleep, I've struggled to fall asleep for the past couple of weeks now. I'm not having nightmares or anything I'm just not tired. I told Ash all about it and she decided to sleep in my room ever since the beginning of the program. Apparently her asari roommate was really cool about it. I want to meet her.
From my room I had a perfect view of the monument. Someone they are calling the greatest N7 of all time as well as the best instructor this program has ever seen. A statue of Eric Shepard was unveiled on the opening day and it was my job as his son to do it.
I'll never forget about that day.
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Saturday 16th July 2185
Rylee was balling her eyes out, hugging me tightly as she looked up at someone who had been there for her, her entire life stand tall above her.
My mom was crying too. I think that was the first time I had ever seen her cry. When the news broke out that he was dead, all of her friends came over to see if she was alright but she refused to talk about it. When I asked her about it she stayed strong, I think she was just putting up a front. She claimed that he chose a dangerous life and his death was always a possibility. She then started spewing statistics. That was her way of distancing herself from her pain. I overheard a conversation she had with Ashley's and Kaidan's mum. She said she felt lost. She was distraught that she would never wake up to see his face again or hear his voice but she never once cried.
His death must have finally dawned on her. It was then that it became real. She thought it was all a nightmare and she would wake up tomorrow with him lying beside her. After months of restraining herself she let it all out. I pulled her into Rylee and I and they both cried on my shoulder staining my dress blues with their tears. The entire time my facial expression as well as my emotions remained static. Kaidan's mum Vanessa and Ashley's Rebecca all came over to hug her, while Rylee was tearing up on Garrus and Kaidan.
A string of Alliance diplomats, ambassadors and politicians followed suits and gave us empty condolences. Very few seemed honest with their words. Camera drones were everywhere as this was being streamed live throughout Citadel space. What really surprised me was the diversity of the diplomats involved. Every council race had multiple representatives. There were Turians, Quarians, Asari, Krogan and Salarian. Some of them had approached my family.
Two krogan talked to Rylee and me. One male and the other female. Their names were Urdnot Wrex and Urdnot Bakara, they had what is equivalent to a Krogan marriage going on.
"I knew your father. He was one of the greatest warriors I've ever met" Wrex said
"Really?" I responded
"Your father was a hero. Wrex is the leader of the Krogan. He decreed that your father will be remembered as an honoured Battlemaster. The name Shepard has been added to the Krogan language" Bakara explained
"What does it mean?" Rylee asked
"Hero" Wrex stated proudly "Nathan, Rylee be proud of your father. He was a great man" he advised as he walked away.
We were then called over by a scar faced human and two Asari. They introduced themselves as Zaeed Massani, Samara and Aleena. Zaeed and Aleena had this aggressive stance. They were both wearing suits but both looked uncomfortable in them. Samara had this quiet grace about her wearing a deep blue dress.
"Hey Kids over'ere" Zaeed called and we complied "So you're Nathan and Rylee. Good to meet ya. Your father never shut up about you" he joked
"The galaxy has lost a great warrior. As well as a great person" Samara added
"There aren't many people capable of achieving what your dad did in his life" Aleena added
"What did my dad do?" I asked. They remained silent but held my stare. I got the message.
We walked over to the buffet table which had a range of choices ranging from dextro to normal. They were each labelled for its specific race and given the amount of teenagers here the alcohol had massive letters at the top to tell which races could drink them. We had spotted Garrus standing by his dad. His dad and mine were 'friends'. They argued a lot and were always sparring but I could tell they respected each other deeply. His dad was speaking with a quarian and a salarian by the dextro section.
"Interesting. Large red labels on a black background. Individual races labelled on product. Alcohol in particular. Large number of teenagers as well as adults. Emotions, hormones, carelessness… youth" the Salarian said in what appeared to be hyper speed.
"Keelah Mordin do you ever take a breath?" the quarian asked
"After working with him for so long I would have thought you'd be used to it Zorah" Garrus' dad interjected
"Titus, I've told dozens of times call me Rael. I don't know why you insist on calling me by my last name"
"Military bravado. Military man. Military standards" Mordin added. Titus took a deep breath and shook his head but a ghost of a smile fell on his face. He was comfortable and more light hearted than usual around these guys.
"Nathan, Rylee there you are" Titus acknowledged
"You call them by their first names" Rael pouted
"Spirits, it's like dealing with a child" the Turian officer sighed and Rael began laughing along with Mordin
Rael began to regain his composure "My name is Rael Zorah vas Normandy and this over here is…" he introduced before realising that no one was there. "Where does that girl wonder off to. She better be with her brother." He threatened "If she gets hurt Reager will be keelhauled" he mumbled under his breath.
"Dark human skin. Black hair. Similar nose and bone structure. Must be Nathan. You look like your father but with your mothers eyes" the Salarian stated he then looked at Rylee "Similar appearance to Hannah but with Eric's eyes. Must be Rylee" he stated. "I am Mordin Solus. As you've gathered we all knew your father. Personally I'm deeply saddened by his death"
I couldn't take it anymore. If someone tells me about my dad or how much they feel sorry for me one more time I'm going to scream. Who are these people and why did my dad never tell me about them?
I found a bench at the edges of the celebration. I left Rylee with Garrus and his dad since she didn't want to follow me around anymore. I thought I would escape attention by going to the edges but I was unlucky enough to catch people's eye on the way over. Another string of politicians and camera drones surrounded me as they looked to appear as chief mourners of my father and friends of the family.
"Hello Latifah bint Al Jalahni" the reporter introduced "I know that this must be a tough time for you. Would you mind telling the public how you feel?" that's a really sly way of telling me that she wants the top story to be hers and I could help out.
"I think it's time for you to leave" another voice intervened. The shock in her eyes was evident and she walked away.
"Thanks Anderson"
"Anytime son" he responded "Damn bureaucrats. Using Eric's funeral as a PR event" he seethed "They aren't even allowing you to mourn in private. He wouldn't have wanted this, but I guess he always knew this is how it would be" he lamented. My dad and Anderson were as close as brothers but Anderson was obviously the older one.
"So Nate, how have you been and not what you tell people so they'll leave you alone"
I looked to the ground "I watched as my mother cried today Anderson. For the first time in my life she cried in front of me. The strongest woman I have ever met was reduced to tears. And I was powerless to do anything about it. Rylee's been asking me…. a lot of questions…. Questions… I can't answer"
"Nate, I don't know what to tell you. Apart from to be strong. Your mother is going to need a pillar she can rely on even if won't admit it. Don't be direct about it. Let her know you're there for her without telling her." he advised.
I nodded and walked towards the cliff that overlooks the forest. I hoped that no one could see me leave. The forest was lush green and brimming with life, birds were flying and I could hear the varren roar as they caught their prey. The sun had just set so darkness had yet to totally take over.
My thoughts wandered to that of my sister. She was only 12, even though that's only two years younger she was always Daddy's little girl. She adored and worshipped our father and was constantly saddened that he was rarely ever there. But he always made up for it when he was there. He never missed her birthday or any of her important activities. When the news broke of his death she went into shock. Not literally but she stopped moving for almost an hour. When she finally came to she was screaming, crying that it was all a bad dream and he would walk through the door and hug her. The most painful thing I had ever done in my life was reaffirming his death to her. I was the one who reiterated it, I had to tell her that the worst moment of her life was for real. The look of abject misery and despair on her face, her lip quivered and tears flooded from her eyes, her pupils glittered from moisture as her glossy brown eyes showed want and confusion. I couldn't help it any longer. I broke into tears along with her, not for my father but for my sister.
Everyone is so damn sad that my dad is dead, my mum is in tears, these friends I'd never seen are coming out of the woodwork, politicians and reporters are fighting for the spotlight. And as I overlooked the stunning forest a thought occurred to me.
How did I feel?
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Tuesday 26th July
Wow that took a few hours to remember. It is 5:00 AM so it's time for Ash to head back to her cabin before the instructors wake us up. I gently shook Ashley awake. But she merely groaned. That was when I remembered something I saw on Two and a half men. I took my hand and reached between her legs.
She gasped awake from pleasure "Nate what are you doing?" she asked
"Waking you up, come on you have to go back" I informed her
"Would it be so bad if we were caught?"
"No. But I'm not sure how I'll explain it to my mum or yours" I pointed out. She merely nodded. She gathered her belongings and headed for the window since the door had a silent alarm. We weren't allowed out of our dorms at night without adult supervision or in case of emergency.
"Bye" she whispered before planting a quick kiss on my lips.
"Love you" I said as she left.
"Love you too"
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A few hours later
Nate POV
Anderson had called us to the main building for a meeting. When I had arrived I found that there was an Asari, Garrus, Kaidan, Ashley and this silver skinned, barefaced Turian. His name was Saren Arterius. His biotics were off the damn charts, no one could match him not even me. But he was a total asshole and a racist. He had an old Batarian view on humanity, he saw us as a mistake, one which would be rectified by 'true Turians'. Most Turians hated him because of his views as did many aliens since his hatred wasn't human exclusive he didn't like Asari or Krogan either. He took offense to my besting him in combat. I never paid him much mind. There were also the councillors. The only ones I knew were Tevos and Udina.
"The seven of you represent the best each race had to offer. You have shown the ability and discipline to be entrusted with what we're about to do." Anderson began
"We are going to put you to the test. You will accompany someone on a low risk mission" The Turian councillor added
"You will likely encounter hostiles but it should be relatively few" Tevos said "We wish to test your abilities but not stretch them"
"You will be travelling to a council settlement. Its population is roughly two million and it is filled with asari, humans, krogan, salarian, turian and batarian" the salarian councillor informed.
"There is an asset on the planet." Udina began "We had him on the planet to see if he could find any signs of slavers. Or as some would call in 'indentured servitude'" he said snidely as he glanced at the asari councillor "He's been compromised as he has drawn suspicion from a potential slaver. Apparently he has discovered something far greater but the transmission was cut off by a storm."
"It's a simple extraction mission. You show up grab him and leave" Anderson simplified
"So do you accept" Tevos asked
We were surrounded by some of the most politically important people in the galaxy. These people are of the highest class and prestige.
"Hell Yeah" I accepted. Ashley and Garrus face palmed, the asari tried to stifle her giggles whilst Saren shot me a disapproving look.
"We leave in a few hours. Basic supplies will be given to you. Anything else will have to be taken at your own accord" the turian councillor dismissed. We each walked out slightly shocked at what we had just heard.
"What just happened?" Kaidan asked
"I think we were just given a mission"
"But why?"
"Don't know don't care all I know is that we're going to see some real action" I said ecstatically. We each made our way over to our dormitories to make the final preparations for the mission. I picked up my omni-tool, whilst Garrus grabbed an extra sidearm and Kaidan his locket with a picture of his mum. I also had a locket. It had a picture of Ashley in it and Ashley had the same one except with my picture in it. I gave mine a kiss before leaving the dorm. I was the first to leave.
At the rendezvous point I discovered that there was only one other person there and that was Ashley's roommate. I don't know what her name is, I guess I should go and find out. I strolled over to her, she had this fidgety, flustered body language.
"Hey there" I greeted. She turned around to make sure I wasn't talking to anyone else. When she was sure that I was speaking to her she smiled sheepishly.
"Hello Nathan"
"How do you know my name?"
"You are Ashley's boyfriend and all that she talks about" she informed. I felt a tinge of pride when I heard her say that. "She has also told me some of the more… embarrassing things you've done" she smiled. I will so get her back for that.
"Yeah well after the mission I'll tell you a couple of her embarrassing secrets" I said rather childishly to which she giggled.
"Speaking of the mission what is your opinion on it?" I asked
"I do not really know what to think. We are obviously a prototype group. If we are unsuccessful this will likely never be done again. A lot of pressure is on us" she observed
"I'm just happy that we'll get to see real combat. I doubt that the council would ever put kids in danger"
"I guess that's true"
"By the way what's your name?"
"Oh it's Li-" just as she was about to tell me her name Saren barged right past her.
I stormed over to him and pulled him back by the arm. He looked down at me whilst I stared him down. He stood at 7 ft whereas I was 5ft 10 so he obviously had the advantage in terms of height and reach.
"What the hell was that?" I snarled
"What are you talking about" he spat
"Apologise to her NOW" I ordered. He continued to stare me down before smirking and turning to walk away. My biotics started flaring and I was ready to charge at Saren. Just before I could Ashley stood in front of me
"Nate calm down!" she urged. Saren then did an audible cackle to piss me off but Ashley barred my path. "Shepard calm down. You don't want to jeopardise your place on this mission so reign it in" she commanded. At first I wasn't having any of it that bastard was going to pay
Garrus and Kaidan then showed up to aid Ashley. They were each trying to calm me down with words, if they wanted to they could knock me out of restrain me. Eventually I calmed down and my biotics relaxed.
"Thanks you guys. I'm gonna kill that dickhead" I threatened
"Not the way you are now Nate" Garrus stated "You may be better in terms of hand to hand combat. But in terms of biotics, he's got you outclassed. In an all-out battle… he'd kill you" he warned. That was something that I annoyed me but I also respected about Garrus. He will always tell you what he thinks and will never lie to you about a situation.
"Do you always have to be this much of a buzz kill" I joked
"Well if I wasn't then you'd be up against a 7ft tall biotic who's got you outclassed. So yeah I kinda have to" he added whilst he made his way to the gift shop to buy some food along with Kaidan.
Before I could even turn around Ashley punched me hard in the arm "What was that for?"
"Letting your temper get the better of you"
"I'm sorry"
"Sure you are" there was an awkward silence for the next few seconds as we were deciding what to say.
A black skinned Turian with white designs on his face walked over to us. From the way he carried himself he obviously viewed himself as important, and his swagger suggested a confidence in his abilities. A few of the instructors watched him with either wary or awe. Who is guy?
"Are you the students" he asked and we both merely nodded "I'm Nihlus Kryik. I will be leading you on the mission we are undertaking" he introduced.
"Hi I'm Nate and this is Ashley" I introduced for the both of us.
"Nate, Ashley I would love to talk but I have to collect the rest of you" he informed. Within 5 minutes he had us all corralled in front of the gift shop
"People. I am told that you are the very best that this program has to offer. I personally don't take peoples word. I have to see it to believe it. You are to listen to my orders without question is that understood!?"
"Yes Sir" we all responded in unison and saluted.
"Good! Today we are going to head towards planet Virmire. We will be headed for a facility known as Asier. I have an operative called Rana Thanoptis. She may have been compromised so we have to smuggle her off-world. We will work under the alias of a class going on a trip to the Asier facility. And we will be leaving right now" he informed. Luckily we were all ready so we just had to get onto the shuttle.
The shuttle ride there was filled with silence either from nerves or concentration. Or it was the fact Saren was a total buzz kill. It was just the students considering that Nihlus was piloting. I sat next to Ashley so I wasn't uncomfortable. Luckily for us Virmire was in the system so it would only be a few hours before we landed. Ashley was cleaning her gun meticulously, something she only did when she was really nervous. If she wanted to talk about it she would. So I just placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, hopefully that calmed most of her nerves.
There as this huge thud like someone had punched metal. Nilhus walked into the room "We have a problem. Rana says that some Eclipse Mercs are causing trouble. Stealth is no longer an issue" he laughed whilst cocking his gun "Finish any and all preparations now. We're parachuting in!" he ordered before jumping out himself. Parachuting isn't as glamorous as it sounds wearing armour and carrying loaded weapons. Luckily parachutes are made of an ultralight aluminium, titanium alloy, whilst retaining its properties it's also bullet-proof.
Upon landing I could see Mercs charging through the door so I ducked under cover. There wasn't much cover but luckily for us Nihlus was here. I haven't seen many people as good as he is. Almost every shot he fired resulted in a head shot. No one got close to him, he grabbed the human merc and used him as a shield from one of the Salarian. He then threw a plasma grenade towards a large group of them taking out the majority of them. Kaidan and I felt that now was a good time to stop being starstruck and help out. I threw an unstable warp at an asari. It was only then that I realised that an engineer had a rocket launcher trained on me. Thankfully Kaidan was there with me because he launched a Stasis at him. Saren then launched reave at this Turian sniper that was trained on our Asari. I really need to get her name.
Garrus and Ashley both had their M-7 Avengers out and were spraying supressing fire in order for Nihlus to get back to cover. He gave them a quick thank you before returning to what he was doing before which was just killing them like fish in a barrel. Before more hostiles could show up the Asari launched a singularity at their place of entrance. The moment they stepped through the door they were in mid-air. Saren took that as an opportunity to throw another warp to cause an explosion.
"Good job. I guess the council might not have been wasting my time after all. The lab isn't that far from our location. Stay close behind" he ordered as he ran down the hall.
We followed with unusual caution. I don't think any of us had been so nervous. Knowing that we could very well die if we get careless made us all the more wary of our surroundings. Nilhus pointed to his right and there stood an Asari guard. I raised my gun but he gestured for me not to. Instead he started to advance through the door. We followed suit cautiously. I guess some of this mission will require some espionage. He gestured us to stop before before turning to us.
"If you're a biotic step to the front" he commanded. Kaidan, the asari, Saren and I stepped forward and awaited orders. "OK now I hope that the two of you are decent snipers" he asked. Ashley and Garrus responde by un-holstering their M-97 Mantis and M-92 Vipers respectively
"Good. I saw the two of you in action." He stated pointing at Saren and I "You're vanguards so you'll be with me. The two of you stay back slightly. Disrupt them with your biotic and tech skills. Snipers will clean up. Eveyone know their roles." We each nodded. I wasn't thrilled to be walking with the dickhead but I would have to make do.
Nilhus threw a flash bang into the room. When the ear ringing blast was out of the way he ran inside with me and Saren in tow. I took out my Tornado VI and charged in. With the resulting blast disorienting the mercs I blew them to bits with my shotgun. My visor had splatters of red, green and blue blood from my victims. Sniper rounds flew past me clipping the mercs, a few headshots as well as winging them. A round got one of the enemies my shotgun was taking care off. I looked towards our trusty snipers and placed my hands on my heart and showed my appreciation. I didn't know who did it but they would both be smiling either way.
I noticed that they were trying to flank us. But that's why Kaidan and our Asari were there for. Both of the encased the large groups in massive stasis fields. I didn't even know that they were that powerful. We readjusted our positions accordingly. Garrus and Ashley had lined up shots and I stood ready to fire. When the field lowered they each collapsed and bullets began to rain. Pistols, snipers, assault rifles and shot guns blasted the poor bastards and they were torn to shreds.
We progressed into the next room and an unarmoured asari was facing a monitor typing away. She was surrounded by corpses of varying races. And she carried on nonchalantly, not even aware of our presence or the fact that she was encased in a room that reeks of death. She struck me as cold and gave me a bad feeling. I instinctively raised my gun before Nihlus put a hand on top of the barrel preventing me from raising my gun.
"Relax. This is the operative. Rana Thanoptis." Saren introduced but she was so enthralled by what she was doing she continuously ignored us. But Nihlus never saw this as weird of peculiar and continued as normal. "We are the extraction team you requested" he informed
To that she turned around before scoffing "You're surrounded by children. What was the council thinking" she spat
"These children you're dismissing killed quite a few mercs to get us here" he defended
"Doesn't matter their age. But we cannot leave until I've completed my work" she stated before returning to her screen.
"What is the matter?"
"I discovered something during my work here." She began before bringing it up on the big screen.
"This colony maybe council owned however it is Eclipse run. The heavy population of humans, Asari and Salarian population it makes it a perfect scouting ground for eclipse. " she observed "However that also makes it a good target for blue suns. Even though there are humans in the blue suns they are far out populated by Turians and Batarians. They are developing a virus to take out all Eclipse in the city along with any potential recruits."
"Is that what you're working on. The virus!" Ashley accused preparing to raise the gun.
"No that's the point. It was suspected but never confirmed. I've been here attempting to develop a cure for the disease. I'm so close but Basera has suspected me for a while and she came close a few days ago" she admitted "I fear that I may not have had the time to finish here so I'd rather do that with council provisions."
"An admirable goal. You've made the right decision. How much longer do you think it will take" Nihlus questioned
"Maybe a week but I didn't have that much time. Before you arrived I locked the room"
As they conversed we just kept our mouths shut and listened carefully. This Asari gives me a bad feeling and my instincts are rarely wrong. Ashley's trigger finger was getting anxious as was mine. I think that we should shoot her and get the hell out of here.
"Can you help me. All of the data I gathered is in the next room." She asked and Nihlus accepted and they disappeared into the room.
"I don't trust her" Ashley stated
"Good, I'm not the only one" Garrus sighed out of relief
All of a sudden there was a surge of footsteps heading in our direction. Not a few but hundreds. From the sound of it almost every blue suns merc in the facility was headed for this location. Shit this isn't happening. We cocked our guns and aimed them at the door.
"Nihlus we have company" as I said that a loud bang emanated from them room they had just entered. "Come on it's time for us to get out of here" I could hear heavy footsteps leaving the room.
"Sorry kids but Nihlus is sleeping…. soundly" Rana Thanoptis had exited the room with a pistol in hand. Just then the doors opened and the mercs flooded in.
"Everyone get in a barrier" I yelled hoping that they heard what I said. Thankfully they all did. I drew on every reserve of power there was in my body, and allowed it to surface. There was this tingling feeling on my skin, weirdly warm but at the same time unsettling. It was like holding in a sneeze but I knew the benefits of patients. I let out a primal roar. As loud as I could manage and released everything that I was holding in. The consequence was a gigantic explosion of biotic power. I called it the biotic Maelstrom and it worked better than I ever thought it would. It left a big dent in the wall as well as smearing the mercs on it. My companions were all blown away but because of the warning they were just sent to the ground.
I collapsed to the ground and began breathing heavy. That was a very draining move but it was the only way I could see making a dent in their forces without anyone ending up dead.
Garrus got up and threw a proxy mine at the door along with an inferno grenade from Ashley. When it was confirmed that no one alive was in the room Kaidan erected a Barrier. Saren picked Rana up and held a pistol to her head.
"If you don't back up then she ends up dead!" he threatened. To our shock she began laughing.
"Hello Basera" she smirked. Before darkness claimed me.
x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
Wednesday 27th July 2185
I awoke on a hard concrete floor. My muscles in pain from being in this uncomfortable position. The ground was cracked and reeked of blood and sweat. With a crick in my neck I looked up and around, my neck clicking more and more as the pain was growing frustrating. The walls were stained with a variety of blood, Turian blue, human red, Salarian green. This is a prison cell and I'm not alone. Along with me sat Saren, Garrus, Kaidan and the asari. They all sat completely dejected. As I sat up I noticed that I felt increasingly weak as well as there being pains all around my body. Not those you get from sleeping in an awkward position, but stinging and sharp pains.
My arm was covered in holes as well as my legs. They looked like needle holes and judging from what I'm feeling now I guess they were taking blood from me. But for what? Why did they take my blood and from the look of how pale Kaidan is they took some from him as well. Something then caught my attention. WHERE IS ASHLEY?
Ignoring all the pain I was currently feeling I sprang to my feet and scavenged the barren cell. I looked in every corner hoping she was there. My frantic search bore no fruit
"WHERE'S ASHLEY?" I yelled.
"Who cares. We need to get out of here" Saren dismissed. I jumped at him. I didn't give a damn what Kaidan or Garrrus thought. I am going to kill Saren
"We don't know Nate. I was the first one to come to" Kaidan said "They took mine and your blood. A lot of it"
"Why us?" I thought. The only thing we have in common is that we're human.
"I don't know. Nor do I care. But if we don't get out of here we'll all be dead" Saren interjected.
"Hate to admit it but he's right. We need to get out of here. Any suggestions?" Garrus inquired
Regaining my composure I came to the conclusion that I can't find Ashley in here. So out was the only option. The only question was how. This is a cell so i doubt that it opens from the inside
"Everyone pretend to be asleep" the Asari hissed before lying down with her eyes closed. I quickly got into the position I was in earlier. The door hissed open and a Blue Suns trooper walked in, once he was happy with what he saw he brought in a scientist. Through the slits of my eyes I could see the tool bag containing medical equipment. Garrus had gotten up silently and now stood tall behind the merc and doctor. I chose that point to open my eyes to stun them. The guard backed up into Garrus and he snapped his neck. I grabbed the syringe and jammed it into his neck. Before leaving I made it a point to snap the doctors neck just to ensure that he's dead.
"Let's find Ashley" I ordered
"You aren't serious. If she wasn't with us she's likely dead. We have to find a shuttle off-world and warn the council" Saren urged
"No fucking way. As long as it doesn't involve a major council world or settlement then they won't lift a finger. Ash will be as good as dead if we don't look for her now" I stated
"Subjects have escaped. Pacify do not terminate" The centurion barked. Luckily for us there were only a few mercs with him. Even though we don't have weapons I think I can take 2 of them and get us a few weapons. I accessed the adrenal gland and increased my heart rate to make up for lost blood. Whilst i recovered Saren and the asari kept them at bay.
"Watch and learn" I bragged before running out of cover to one that was closer, my movements were greatly enhanced by the adrenaline. When I figured I was close enough I did a shockwave. It knocked all of them back and a few into the wall behind them. I took the opportunity to get to the centurion along with a trooper. I smeared the former on the wall and the latter on to the ground. I quickly grabbed the weapons they carried and charged back to the others.
"I bring presents" I announced handing out the weapons of the dead. I'm not sure whether we're as good as the council thinks we are or these guys are hilariously incompetent. I handed Garrus a Nagitana V, Saren a Lancer VII, and the asari a Stiletto VIII. I couldn't get enough weapons Kaidan and I so I'm hoping that these are enough. I'm not sure how much longer I can last, that little showing took up every bit of energy I had. I still haven't made up for the blood lost, even if I brought more weapons I wouldn't have given Kaidan one. Plus none of us are wearing our armour,instead we're wearing what appears to be prison garbs.
"Clear" Garrus yelled after firing one final shot of his sniper rifle.
"We need to find Rana. Maybe I can synthesize a cure for the disease" the Asari suggested
"Good thinking. Saren, you and her go through that door" I ordered pointing at a door on the far side of the room "That's where we met her. It'll likely have intel" I commanded. The silveskinned turian growled before being dragged away from us by our Asari biologist.
"We'll look for Ashley!" I ordered. Although splitting up would have been faster, we stuck together in case we ran into trouble. We searched every room in this block but found nothing, there were long brown human hairs on the ground as well as blood. If she's hurt I will kill Rana.
We followed the trail into what appears to be an interrogation room. The cameras were looping footage dated back 2 days. It was Ashley strapped to a chair while they took blood from her neck. She had a big red stain on top of her head as well as a busted lip. They didn't care about keeping her alive. They could care less if she died. She starts kicking and screaming as they drag her out of the room which would explain they trail.
I began hyperventilating out of fear for her safety "We have to find her! NOW" I yelled frustratedly. In my head the worst case scenarios started playing out. And worst of all they were likely happening to her. It was clear that she isn't here so I ran to the room where we left Saren and our asari. When I opened the door I saw her on the floor. Laying there lifeless and limp. She had a big blue bruise on her temple where she was struck. Saren was no where to be seen.
"She's alive but unconscious" Kaidan inspected her body "Blow to the head, looks like a gun did this". A familiar gunshot was heard from the room Nihlus was killed. I grabbed the Stiletto and took cover in the corner next to the door. When the door opened I had it cocked. Through the door walked Saren who had a gunshot wound on this right arm.
"Rana tried to kill us. She jumped into the air vents" he explained
"Why aren't you chasing her" I accused
"In case you haven't noticed I'm 7ft tall. I couldn't possibly fit into those vents." he reasoned scornfully. I had to concede to his judgement. "I also got this from the computers Audio banks"
"Subject 16. Human female. In adolescence. We are close. The virus works fine on Asari, Turians and salarians but it doesn't seem to be as effective on humans. We are using her tissue to counteract human genetic variation. Traces of her genetic heritage shows that she comes from a diverse line, making her the perfect subject. The virus will be airborne so it can spread quickly"
Those sick fucks are using her to kill millions. There is no way I'm letting that happen.
"The virus is finally complete. We will test it on the city nearby Dros. It will have a variety of test subjects. If it is successful then Basera will have one of the most powerful weapons in the galaxy" I need to stop the virus from spreading.
"The test has been successful. The entire city of Dros has been infected. They are exhibiting the symptoms associated with the toxin. Loss of cerebral function and working on primal instinct. Unfortunately they cannot be controlled as we hoped, this will be a weapon not a method of recruitment "
So this virus turns you into a walking zombie.
"We no longer require the subjects. Terminate them. Subject 16 is in the city. She is located in Warehouse 13. Poison them, make it look like they fell victim to the virus" She ordered one of the guards. Wow is I hadn't woken up then I might have been dead.
"You heard her Ash is in the city. Pick her up and lets find her"
"She could be infected" Saren interjected "Saving her would be useless. I say alert the council and destroy the city from orbit" he suggested. That was the last straw, I mustered a lot of biotic force and punched him in the jaw.
"I don't give a shit. If there is even the a slight chance of saving her. I WILL TAKE IT" I growled before turning and looking for the nearest exit. I pulled up a blueprint for the complex and found the quickest way to the city. But first I looked at the tool rack. It had breather masks which would be a huge help. I ran as fast as possible to the desired exit and I jumped through the window using my biotics to shield me from the shards and fly to the street. I was followed by Saren who carried the asari and Kaidan carrying Garrus.
Unfortunately we were in a city surrounded by non thinking, mindless husks of the Turian, Salarian, Asari and Human variety. "Don't kill them, knock them out. We might be able to save them" I breathed out. But that would be easier said than done. I jumped up to smallest roof I could find to avoid confrontation. While I had the time I looked for warehouse 13 on my omni-tool. It wasn't all that far away. I jumped from roof to roof since it was the quickest way to get there.
I mustered the power required to make the last jump. My amp was a little rattled when I woke up so using my abilities hurt more than I'd like, but if a little pain meant finding her then I will take it. I would die if it meant I could see her again. I've lost my dad but I think that losing Ash could kill me. When I landed in the warehouse fear gripped my heart as I realised that it was empty.
"NATE WATCH OUT" Kaidan yelled from above me. To my horror I saw a shit load of explosives strapped to the roof. It's a trap. They never stood a chance. I got lucky with my trajectory, I never got close enough to trigger the proxy mines but they did. I erected a barrier to protect myself. But Kaidan was too close for a barrier to be entirely effective. Him and Garrus were blown into the wall and fell to the ground. They fell 20ft without armour but Kaidans barrier still stood.
When all of the shrapnel had stopped falling I ran over to the pair. They can't die. No not them. I can't lose everyone I care about this quickly. They had deep cuts. Kaidans torso and thigh looked like he was in a slasher film and Garrus didn't look much better. I grabbed the medi-gel from a nearby crate and applied as much as I could to the cuts. It will still hurt but it can't get infected.
"I need to get you to a doctor" I urged
"I'm... fine. The medi-gel helped"
"Me too..." Garrus gasped.
"Hello kids. If you're smart you'll be wearing breathers." Rana appeared on the holo on my omni-tool. Wait a minute this is Ashley's number. "I was hoping you would be fine. You're little girlfriend here has your name tattooed on her wrist. And you're picture in this locket" she mocked patronisingly.
"If you care about her you'll be at the peak of Mount Viza. You have 20 minutes Nathan. If you run now you could make it. I'm even nice enough to forward you location" she cackled before cancelling the transmission.
"Guys..." I began
"GO!" They yelled in unison. It was then that I realised something. They're breathers are damaged. That GO! may have been more to say get away from me than it was to save Ashley. Just as I jumped I was dragged back to the ground. Not so much dragged as I fell. My amp was fried and I couldn't move. I looked at Kaidan. His skin was becoming discoloured and was becoming wrinkled. He was slurring his words and his eyes had no colour. This must be one of the side effects of the virus.
"Kaidan you have to fight it!" I encouraged but he merely groaned incoherently. He still had some control over his biotics since he through a stasis field around me. Garrus picked up a big piece of rubble and staggered over towards me. His growls were feral and barbaric. NO! "GARRUS KAIDAN FIGHT IT!" I yelled
Garrus then began bashing at the stasis field. One good thing about their loss of intelligence was that the stasis field not only stopped me moving but it also protected me. "Ash is dying while we're here. STOP IT" I pleaded. Tears almost falling out of hopelessness
A cloud of green gas encapsulated the two unthinking husks that were my friends. It was a gas grenade. They fell limp and lifeless to the ground. NO they can't be dead. They may have been husks but the council could have saved them. God please don't let them be dead!
"That was close. You're very lucky you are surrounded by a stasis field" Saren laughed as he flew in. The unconscious asari under his arm. "She is also infected." I looked at her. He never even bothered putting a mask on her
"YOU ASSHOLE" I seetherd but remembered Ashley. I had 15 minutes to get to Mt. Viza. "Ashley's at Mt Viza. We need to find her then come back for these guys. This wearhouse should be fortified enough to prevent anyone else from getting in and I doubt they're smart enough to fly through the window." I reasoned. To my surprise Saren nodded and jumped through before me.
I found the highest point that was close to me and jumped to the top. I was putting my adrenaline amp to the test by using my biotics this much. I charged from that point to the City limits. I only just realised how high the facility was. It was at least 200 meters above the city. It took me 4 minutes to get to the limits. I launched a big rock all the way to the top before charging straight up using the rock to stop myself. Saren following close behind me. In my mind I kept on seeing Ashley's lifeless corpse, laying on the ground covered in lacerations and blood. Her cold lifeless eyes. Pale blue, dead, lifeless lips and skin. Those thoughts scared me more than anything else in my life and drove me to move faster.
I had just reached the peak of the cliff. "I'm gonna make it with time to spare!" I shouted ecstatically. I ran as fast as I could until the mountain was in sight. Looking up I could barely make Ashley out but I could see her. 8 minutes left.
"Wait right there Nathan" Rana warned but I ignored her and kept running. "Take another step and she's dead" she threatened. I stopped promptly.
"Well done you are so close to saving the damsels life" she congratulated "But there is a catch" she laughed
"Your friend over there wasn't honest with you. The silver Turian" she stated. I turned to Saren and glared "Yes I escaped through the vents but because he allowed me to" she revealed "The virus had become problematic for me. Blue Suns aren't willing to pay and neither are eclipse. So I can't allow it to continue existing" she continued "I gave your friend the code to a bomb in Warehouse 11. Not just any bomb but a neutron bomb. Everything within the city limits will be destroyed including your friends." she chuckled as if this was mundane "Here's the funny part. The timer is connected to the timer place on the mountain your girlfriend is on right now." WHAT!
"You have a choice. Continue on your path and save your Girlfriend. Condemning millions to their deaths and ending the virus" she offered "Or turn back to the city and disable the bomb. Saving millions but killing the love of your life" she announced "Disabling the bomb triggers a code to the Atmospheric Shield. It will release the cure into the city. Once again no more virus and I win. The code is 2185. Tick Tock" she said in a sing song voice.
I charged at Saren knocking him into the ground. I then proceeded to pound the shit out of him "You idiot. WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL US ABOUT THIS"
"I needed to arm the bomb. We must contain the virus no matter what!" he stated
"What about all of those lives" I yelled
"They're expendable in the face of galactic safety"
"Bullshit. You just couldn't be bothered to look any further"
"Who cares. It's only a few dead humans, Asari, Salarians and Batarians" he dismissed. Was his racism so damn rooted that he'd needlessly sacrifice lives.
"There are Turians down there too!"
"Those Turians were tainted by a carefree lifestyle and laziness. We're better off without them" he reasoned
"I'm going to kill you!" I smashed his head into the ground knocking him out. I was about to cave his skull in when.
"Sorry to interrupt but lives at stake... remember" Rana interjected. My hate for this Asari grew stronger with each passing minute. "This sort of decision should be made by a couple so..."
"Nate... Nate can you hear me" it was Ashley. She was crying.
"Ash hold on I'm going after you" I had made my choice. But then my friends faces popped up in my head. Garrus, Kaidan, the Asari. They would all die if I save Ash. But the woman I love dies if I save them. How the fuck am I meant to choose.
"Tell my mom, Sara, Lynn and Abby that I love them"
"Don't talk like that..." I breathed out "I'm coming to get you"
"No... Nate... Save the city. Leave me"
"What... NO WAY" Their faces along with the civilians popped up again.
"You know it's the right thing to do... please do it for me" she pleaded, choking out the last part. This was the woman I loved. She had beauty, courage, intelligence, independence. All of them in abundance and I was the guy lucky enough to be her boyfriend. She is so young but willing to sacrifice her life for millions. She was a soldier through and through.
I had made my decision
"Ash I'm so sorry..." I cried "I will always love you" I Whispered through the comm.
"I love you... I'll be looking out for you from the other side...I know you Nate... please move on... promise me" she cried. Taking breaths to cry.
"Bye Ash"
"Bye Nate" she cried before the transmission was cut.
x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
Present Day
"I ran back to the city and disabled the bomb. As Rana had said the cure was dispersed and everyone was cured. We found Ashley's body at the bottom of the mountain path. Rana had disappeared and with most of her research." I informed "We sent out a distress signal. Alliance arrived first, lead by Hackett and Anderson. I told them the whole story but they were speechless. The moment Alliance brass caught wind of the story they rushed over to meet me. Overnight I became it's poster boy and Ashley its martyr. They used everything that had happened at the facility as good publicity. I was on the cover of every Alliance magazine as well as council ones too." I spat
"My entire family history became public knowledge but the story was airbrushed. They created a persona for one of the dead guards, they painted him to be the leader who I killed. It would cause a panic if the public knew a bio-terrorist was on the loose. It would also make the Council look weak" I informed "I became hot property, they did interviews, advertisements, photo shoots, public events. Not once was Ashley mentioned. If it broke out that the Alliance and Council allowed a 14 year old girl die then it could ruin them" I seethed "I was painted as a hero when the biggest hero was to be forgotten because of political fear. They were lucky that I couldn't even talk about it to myself" I growled. "Garrus, Kaidan, Saren and the Asari stayed out of it. None of us wanted the publicity but I had no choice"
"Because of it I rarely sleep and when I do I'm plagued by nightmares. She has been in my dreams and nightmares for 4 years straight. Aethyta said that this would help. But I don't feel any different"
They all looked at each other in worry and awe. Even Jack looked surprised. "Nate. I'm so sorry" Tali comforted
"If I wanted sympathy then I would tell everyone. But I don't. It happened and there's nothing I can do about it now" I dismissed
I scanned the room to see how they felt about what I said. Grunt looked stunned for a bit but that quickly turned into a look of respect. I guess what I did earned more respect.
Kelly, Samantha, Rylee, James, Miranda, Jacob and Kasumi looked as if they felt sorry for me. I guess that was to be expected.
Thane and Jack were a little harder to read. Thane had a mixture of sorrow and respect on his face. But was trying to hide it out of respect of my wished. Jack was confused but at the same time sympathetic. She wondered why I told her of all people.
Kaidan, Garrus and Liara all avoided looking at me. They were ashamed but why would they be. It wasn't any of their faults. If it was anyone's fault it would be between Saren and I.
Before I could continue I heard a muffled explosion from out of my window. I ran over to see what all of the commotion was about. In the distance I could see a fire. The flames licked the window of another apartment complex, the cars were piled up. One on top of another, the smoke filling the air and people screaming as they run away from the burning wreckage.
There was a power surge. All power in the district just disappeared. It all went dark. Luckily for us the artificial lights work on a different network to every other part of the Citadel.
That wasn't all. Gunfire. I could hear it in the distance as well as I could see bodies flying when they were shot. The assailants wore white armour, with an intricate black and gold design. I couldn't make out who they were from here. Just then another car began to fly in the air. Only this time it was headed in our direction. It was heading right for me.
OH SHIT.