The Eternal Lord 40k - ME

by HellFox83

A battle against the forces of Chaos strands a Necron lord in the galaxy of Mass Effect. With what's left of his dynasty under his banner, Veronakh Lord of Solvatakh intends to lead his people to glorious conquest. Can Commander Shepard stop the Collectors and curtail the ambitions of the Necrons?

28. Chapter 26: Culmination

Chapter 26: Culmination

Alarms blared as Miranda rushed up to the cockpit of the Normandy. Just then a torpedo exploded onto the frigate's shields causing the whole ship to shake. The XO shouted out, "Joker what's happening?!"

"We've got fast moving assholes on us and it's taking everything I've got to keep the Normandy out of the line of fire!" Joker exclaimed.

"Kinetic barriers at fifty percent!" EDI warned.

"From just ONE fucking torpedo! Shit!"

Kor'Pharas' voice spoke through the cockpit's loudspeaker, "Pilot, maneuver towards me and I will provide supporting fire."

"Trying!" Joker replied between gritted teeth.

The Normandy was burning towards the Necron escort with Aeldari torpedoes inbound behind it. The Shuvat was cruising towards the human frigate, its Arc batteries warming up. As the smaller vessel flew past, the Shuvat's weapon systems fired bursts of immense green electricity that incinerated the chasing torpedoes. Kor'Pharas was on the command throne of the Shuvat, seeing through the ship's sensors three Aeldari destroyers with a Void Serpent light cruiser at the heart of their formation. They had the look of birds or fish, with gun mounts and torpedo vents at the fore of their vessels with fins or wings spread out from their fuselages. Two of the smaller destroyers broke formation and began burning after the Normandy. The Shuvat attempted to intercept but found itself under assault from a barrage of Aeldari torpedoes.

The Shuvat's Arc batteries flared to life once more, striking and exploding multiple Aeldari ordinance. In response the last of the Aeldari strike force split up, entering attack positions at differing vectors of approach. The remaining destroyer maneuvered to fire torpedoes on the underbelly of the Shuvat while the light cruiser approached with lance batteries and ordinance head on. Though it was punching above its weight in ship class, the Shuvat endured the Void Serpent's lasers as they scarred its Necrodermis. Kor'Pharas focused fire on the enemy destroyer causing it to engage it's holofield and back off. The Shuvat then disappeared in a flash of light before the vessel could be struck by the barrage of torpedoes, reappearing in an explosion of green energy behind the pair of Aeldari destroyers chasing the Normandy. It unleashed its Arc batteries once more scarring the rears of both enemy ships, forcing them to engage holofields and disengage.

"Pilot, status?" Kor'Pharas asked as the Normandy flipped and moved into formation with its ally.

"Barriers are recharging and barely holding but no hull damage or anything serious yet," stated Joker.

"Standby, translation of cruiser chassis to real space imminent."

The Shuvat spun, its forward momentum propelling it forward as a flash of green light and lightning appeared to what was now its rear. Appearing from the light was the larger cruiser chassis of the Shuvat. The engines of the Necron escort engaged to slow its momentum and bring it to dock with the fore of the chassis. The escort ship slowly eased into the slot of the greater hull, where it was quickly locked into place. The green lighting of the larger ship came to life, blinking at first before the reactor kicked in and brimming the lights with power. The Shuvat was now a light cruiser, electricity now flowing throughout the entire structure of the ship as its engines came to life. However there were still scars across the Necron ship's hull still being slowly repaired by necrodermis. Kor'Pharas had ordered the ship to depart before the ship's internal repairs were complete and not all weapon systems were online.

Despite this, he hoped to intimidate the Aeldari into thinking twice before committing to another attack. He detected in their previous attacks on the Normandy a hesitation. For the foe weren't giving everything to the frigate's destruction, only damaging shields and making the human's panic from the sheer power of their weapons. Kor'Pharas realized something as the Aeldari Void Serpent moved to engage him, "Shepard have you dealt with the assassin?"

---

Normandy Cargo Bay...

The Commander set an armor piercing mod on his Avenger as he and Grunt took positions on either side of the door into the hanger bay. Shepard peaked and only saw the auxiliary power systems and the setup for the Necrontyr device to remove nanites. He peered a moment longer and the only other item of note was the Hammerhead tank held above by a crane. He responded back to the Necron Praetorian over the comms, "Not yet, we have him cornered in the cargo bay and I got personnel already joining me to bring him down."

At those words, the elevator to the current level opened, revealing Jacob in tactical gear with a mechanical arm hefting a Revenant machine gun alongside several Normandy security personnel. Following him was Kasumi, Gefren, and Tel'Se Neran, each with weapons in hand.

Gefren stood up straight and nodded, "Alright, Tel'Se, Mr. Taylor I believe you can provide overwatch from those windows. Mrs. Kasumi and the others can join me with the Commander, let's get to it!"

The armored up Volus then began trotting off, pistol in hand. The humans looked amused with smiles and chuckles at the diminutive alien's initiative. Tel'Se shook her head with a smile and walked beside the console in front of the elevator and began breaking the glass with her rifle, "He never changes."

Jacob motioned to security, "Well what are you waiting for? Go!"

The arriving security force then split up as Gefren suggested with Kasumi falling in behind the security team, leaving Jacob and Tel'Se to setup overwatch positions overlooking the cargo bay. While Tel'Se setup on her window, Jacob walked on the opposite side of the console and with one punch with his mechanical arm shattered the window to setup his Revenant. Tel'Se cocked an eyebrow at the human, "Arm working well?"

Jacob grimaced, "Ain't the same as using biotics with my real one, but its what I've got for now. Had to pull it from some parts we got from salvage."

The Asari merc nodded approvingly, "It hits pretty good."

The former Corsair then got down on one knee and braced the Revenant against his shoulder as he sighted down into the cargo bay frowning, "Sure does. But let's focus, we got a bad guy to take down."

Tel'Se nodded again in agreement and looked into the cargo bay through her scope, noting the Commander and Grunt peaking in at the entrance to the bay before being joined by the rest of the team behind them. Shepard frowned as he listened to the Praetorian once again with the rest of the newly arrived force stacking up behind him, "Commander, you must not kill your target. I suspect he is the only thing keeping the Aeldari from outright destroying your vessel."

A torpedo exploding outside jostled the interior of the Normandy causing everyone to brace onto something or falling to their knees behind the Commander. Shepard grunted and grimaced but realized that the Necron was right, the Normandy wouldn't last long in a direct assault, "You're sure about this?"

"Based on their attack patterns and the fact you have suffered no hull damage as of yet...its obvious the Aeldari are holding back. Even their escort vessels could easily destroy your ship as it is."

"Even if that's true, I don't think he plans on surrendering. Might try to die in a blaze of glory trying to kill me or my crew"

"In any event, I advise you subdue him quickly. I am now engaged with the enemy light cruiser and I am uncertain if even I can defeat it in the Shuvat's current state."

With that, the call disconnected and the Commander looked back to his forces behind him, "We need him alive. Non-lethal take down only."

Grunt grimaced, "What! Why?!"

"Because he's the only reason his friends aren't blowing up the ship. Take him down but don't kill him. That's an order."

The Krogan warrior growled but gruffed in acknowledgement, "Fine."

The Commander readied his weapon and Grunt prepared to move in on his signal, the rest of the security forces behind Shepard readied up with Avenger rifles. The former Spectre looked to Kasumi and nodded towards her, the thief recognized the play the Commander was getting at with a smile before drawing her Locust submachine gun and cloaking. Shepard brought two fingers to his comm link, "You catch the order Jacob? Tel'Se?"

"Yeah we heard it boss, we got you covered." Jacob acknowledged.

"We're going in. Thermals if you got it, this guy has stealth. Stay in pairs and keep within sight of others. Yell if anything is off." Shepard said, before snapping on a visor that activated an orange hologram over his eyes. He motioned for everyone behind him to pile into the cargo bay and like a tide of bodies they swarmed from the entrance, sweeping all around, helmet visors glowing. Shepard was in the middle of the group scanning and watching over the various pairs now on alert. Grunt opted for his sense of smell instead, sniffing the air loudly as he looked for the intruder, wary of an ambush. Gefren covered the entrance with several other guards to ensure Tylon wouldn't double back that way. After several moments of sweeping around the bay, the team found nothing. One pair of security officers was heading towards the cargo door controls, having seemingly caught sight of something odd. Kasumi still was somewhere around there and Shepard was about to call her back when security by the door controls reported, "Sir, we got something here."

"What is it?" the Commander asked.

"Some kind of alien device on the cargo bay door controls. Never seen anything like it."

"Don't touch it, could be a booby trap. I'm on my wa-"

A flash in his visors HUD informed him that Kasumi was signaling him along with her speaking in a hushed voice over comms to someone, "Found you" she said cheekily.

Shepard turned to the signal to see an uncloaked Kasumi atop the Hammerhead held up above them all by the docking crane. She back flipped away from a slashing strike by an uncloaking Tylon, who then threw the same knife at her. She fell back as the knife missed her head scything through her hair as she dropped a flash bang in front of her. The blast blinded Tylon for a moment, allowing Shepard to sight up and fire a concussive shot at the Aeldari assassin. It struck the alien ranger in the chest, sending him tumbling off the hover tank and onto one of the auxiliary power units below. He rolled off the unit and fell to the floor clutching his chest where the round had struck him. The Aeldari's fall and the blast of the shot drew the entire Normandy security force, now training their weapons at the fallen Aeldari.

"It's over Tylon! Surrender! There's no need to throw your life away!" Shepard ordered, his rifle aiming at the space between the Aeldari's blue eye lenses of his helmet.

The alien assassin was still clutching his chest and was wheezing after he had gotten the wind knocked out of him. Several guards quickly seized him and he struggled against them, refusing it seems to remove one of his hands from his side. Suddenly he pressed something and a warning from EDI sounded throughout the bay.

"Warning! Security override engaged! Cargo bay doors opening! Mass Effect fields non-functional! Decompression imminent!"

At that instant the cargo bay doors began to open and like EDI warned, the vacuum of space began to siphon out everything within reach. Tools and small objects scattered throughout the bay were sucked out into space as everyone began to try to hold onto something to prevent themselves from being pulled out. Shepard himself was straining, holding onto an auxiliary power unit by him. By contrast Tylon, regaining his composure, slipped free as one of the guards was drawn up by the force of air escaping into space, screaming in terror. The assassin then allowed himself to be siphoned along with the other security guard by the decompressing force. Shepard gritted his teeth, as he helplessly watched it all unfold, his security team members being pulled out into space along with the Aeldari.

Then the swiftly moving view of space out of the back of the Normandy cargo bay was engulfed by the front of a larger ship. An Aeldari destroyer was now behind them, white and black in coloration with blue lighting along its port and starboard. It's fore guns along the top of the ship then began training on them. Shepard now expected it to open fire, finishing them off in a flurry lances of light. When the moment passed and nothing happened, the Commander returned back to the crisis at hand, the decompression that was siphoning his air and personnel. Over the roar of the wind passing by him, the Commander yelled over comms, "Someone shoot the door controls!"

Tel'Se obliged the Commander still reeling and also trying to keeping her gun steady so she could hit it at the far end of the bay. Jacob also attempted it, firing his Revenant to little effect at the control console. The Asari Commando eventually found her shot, straining against the force attempting to pull her out of the window. Squeezing the trigger, her rifle boomed a shot across the bay and into the alien device on the door controls shattering it. EDI chimed in once more, "Security override lifted! Activating emergency Mass Effect Fields! Standby! Retracting cargo bay doors!"

A wall of transparent blue energy appeared across the view of the Aeldari ship in front of the remaining Normandy security force. As quickly as it had come, the decompression ended and Shepard could relax, feeling the burning in his arms and legs from holding on for so long. His exertion was shared by the rest of the group, though Grunt just shook himself off like a dog shaking off water. The Commander grimaced that he lost several Normandy personnel on account of Tylon, but other than that his crew mates were in one piece. Before the bay doors closed Shepard could see the ship suddenly turn away from the evading Normandy, its view inverted as Joker continued evasive maneuvers.

Shepard got on comms to report to his metallic ally on the Shuvat, "Praetorian, the assassin was sucked out into space and the Aeldari seem to be breaking off. Not sure if they recovered him or not." he gasped.

---

The Shuvat took another barrage of torpedoes to its starboard hull and the whole interior of the ship shook under the strain of powerful shockwaves. Kor'Pharas saw in his ocular lenses the damage reports coming in. Another hit like that would sheer off the whole starboard section or cause the reactor to go critical. As the Aeldari Void Serpent passed above it, the Shuvat's Arc batteries flared, sending out green lightning strikes that scalded the bottom of the alien craft before it vanished behind it's holo-field. Kor'Pharas was growing frustrated. The past few minutes had been nothing but hit and run attacks from his opponent in order to wear him down. But the Praetorian knew Aeldari hubris and that in their moment of triumph was his opportunity to turn the tide. The Shuvat just needed to endure a little bit more, along with the moment to present itself.

Then it came. The Void Serpent appeared again from below, it's target clearly the starboard side once again in order to deliver the coup de grace. The Aeldari Lance batteries struck the Shuvat's wounded flank once again and Kor'Pharas could detect the ship straining under the bombardment. But he knew it wouldn't be enough, it would take another torpedo strike and as the Praetorian anticipated the Aeldari commander overcommitted to the attack. Once the torpedoes left their tubes, Kor'Pharas engaged the ship's phase drive and vanished in a flash of green light. Reappearing behind the Void Serpent, the Shuvat unleashed it's Arc batteries tearing into the ship's aft section and slicing off the top fin of its rear. The Aeldari ship suddenly jumped forward in a burst of speed and engaged its holo-field. "Damn." Kor'Pharas thought to himself. The Praetorian had hoped to be able to do more damage or perhaps even kill the enemy vessel with that stroke, but the enemy commander had good instincts under pressure.

Then Shepard's message arrived and the Triarch Praetorian internally groaned at the Commander's failure. Yet the fact that the human's ship hadn't been destroyed puzzled him as he digested the message in milliseconds. He reached out with his sensors and also detected the Aeldari destroyers also attempting to flee the area. Then the Void Serpent reappeared at the head of their formation, fleeing the field. Evidently, the Aeldari had gotten what they came here for.

"Indeed Commander, they are retreating. Pilot, proceed towards the far side of the planet while I ensure they do not pursue." Kor'Pharas informed.

"You sure you don't need any help? You're not looking so good." Joker responded.

"Do not pay my damage any mind pilot. Protect the Vymark at all costs." The Praetorian stated.

Kor'Pharas began to give chase but noted the damage had significantly slowed his speed. He could still phase jump one last time but after that he could not risk any more power surges to the damaged reactor. Since the Void Serpent had evaded his wrath, he would take his vengeance upon one of the lagging destroyers that he had damaged earlier in the battle. As the formation began to cloak away and disappear the Shuvat engaged its drive one last time, appearing behind the lagging Aeldari destroyer. Still bearing the scars from the earlier chase, the Aeldari craft attempted to engage its engines to burst away only for the engines to short out completely. Kor'Pharas targeted the ship and unleashed all remaining Arc batteries on the enemy ship, searing off the aft section before cutting across the hull causing its reactor to detonate in a fiery blossom of incandescent light.

Surprisingly, the Aeldari convoy continued to flee the battle, disappearing from sight as Kor'Pharas extracted his pound of flesh for their trespass. The Praetorian opened a communique once more with the human frigate, "Normandy, the enemy has fled the field. I shall regroup with you at the following coordinates."

---

Normandy conference room, ten hours till IFF readiness.

"The situation grows precarious. The Shuvat has sustained critical damage in several portions of its cruiser chassis and will require extensive repairs. Repairs that can no longer be given due to the Vymark's exile status." The Praetorian began.

Shepard had opted to discuss all this alone with the Necron while Miranda handled final preparations and oversaw cleanup of the attack on the ship. The Commander grimaced, rubbing his brow, "So we can assume it is pretty much out of action?"

The Necron shook his head, "Not entirely. The escort vessel can still fly on its own power, albeit at diminished combat capacity. However, with the advent of the Aeldari as enemies, being unable to bring our full power to bear puts us at a significant disadvantage."

"Strange they didn't just finish us off once they retrieved their man. After all they could have ended the threat from you right there."

"The Aeldari are unfathomable Commander. There is no understanding creatures whose minds shift with the astral winds. It could be that there was a more pressing concern than our existence or that fate decreed that withdrawal was more in line with their prophecies."

"Or they thought if they stuck around too long they'd get your dynasty's attention. We don't know how much they know about the division within the Solvatakh dynasty. I doubt they could get much given how much control Kotorin exerts over information."

"Regardless, the situation remains and their attempt on the Vymark's life has failed. For that you have the Triarch's gratitude in standing with us." The Praetorian said giving a bow of respect.

The Commander nodded back before continuing, "She's still hobbled by that virus though. Misiya's been doing what she can but the virus keeps cropping up. So far we've been able to keep Solvatas' main power functioning, but when we try to pin down the virus it somehow reappears in another portion of her sub-systems. Misiya is afraid that unless we figure out how the virus keeps replicating and appearing all over, it could spread inadvertently to her power system."

Suddenly the door opened and an unexpected female voice through a helmet speaker spoke, "Shepard!"

The Commander looked wide eyed at the figure slowly walking into the room with an annoyed Dr. Chakwas behind her, "Miss Zorah, you are in no condition to be walking around just yet!"

Tali waved the medical officer off, "I've been in that bed for far too long at this point! I'm fine!"

"Tali! It's good to see you on your feet." Shepard said with a smile.

"Likewise, though the good doctor here believes otherwise. If I am going to lay down again its not going to be in that medical bay with those...things in there!"

Kor'Pharas' eyes slitted in irritation at the disrespectful remark. Shepard picked up on this and then asked politely, "Praetorian, if there isn't anything more to discuss, may I speak to Tali in private?"

A slight hiss of annoyance left the Necron before relenting, "Very well, I shall return to the Vymark's side. But remember Commander, our enemies will not let us rest for long. We must decide what happens next quickly, regardless of the Vymark's state."

The Praetorian gave a light bow towards the Commander respectfully before proceeding to leave, giving Tali a glaring look with his eyes as he passed her. Tali returned the look while Chakwas stayed back, staying out of the massive robot's way and breathing a sigh of relief when nothing else happened, "Tali are you sure you don't want to rest? We've prevented as much atrophy as we could during your coma with muscle stimulant therapy but-"

Tali rolled her shoulders, "I'll be alright, there's alot more people down in that infirmary who need more help than I do."

Dr. Chakwas nodded finally relenting, "Alright, let me know if there is anything else you need and don't push yourself."

The elderly doctor then saluted Shepard which he returned before she left the room. Tali let out a sigh of relief before she looked to the Commander with a frown, "What is going on Shepard? The first thing I see when I wake up is skeletal robots with weapons all around the medical bay along with injured humans! I thought at first the Geth had captured me! Then I find a Quarian girl working on one of said robots who then shrieked in fear at the sight of me! When the robots didn't attack me, Chakwas gave me a brief explanation. Then I came to find you to get answers... and where do I find you? Talking to another of said robots!"

The fiesty Quarian girl then walked up to Shepard who looked away from her gaze and scratched the back of his head. Tali crossed her arms, still maintaining her frown, "What is going on here?"

The former Spectre sighed, "Alright...you may need to sit down."

Tali's expression softened as curiosity entered her features. They took up seats at the conference table and spoke for the next hour. He explained how thanks to Cerberus he had returned from death and went into detail about the original mission upon Veridine. Tali shifted uncomfortably in her seat when he talked about his subsequent enslavement to Veronakh, and the deeds he and his crew were forced to do under his will. Followed by being stalked and attacked by another Spectre before being defeated with the help of Solvatas who then would go on to assist him in escaping Veronakh's control. He then explained how the Vymark broke away from what turned out to be her father Kotorin using her brother's body as his means to cheat death. Now that the true mastermind had revealed himself, Solvatas chose to escape her father's control and now like it or not Shepard and the Vymark are in a strange bedfellows situation on top of the conflict with the Collectors and their Reaper masters.

Tali leaned back in her seat and let out a breath as she digested everything, shaking her head, "Ancestors Shepard...you really did step in it this time didn't you?"

The Commander shook his head in turn and gave a chuckle, "Yeah, bit of an understatement really. But stepping into things is kinda what I do. Never could just sit back and let things happen."

The doors opened and another familiar scarred face arrived, "Tali!"

Tali turned and beamed a smile behind her mask, "Garrus!"

The Quarian girl bounced out of her seat to rush up to him only for her legs to suddenly give out. Thankfully she was caught in the Turian's arms. Garrus was a bit surprised and embarrassed by the display, a bemused look on his face, "Whoa! Easy there! You doing okay?"

"I'm feeling a little better now with another friend in this crazy mess." Tali said as she stepped back from the haphazard hug.

Garrus smiled at that, "Well likewise. It's good to have you back." Looking to Shepard the Turian asked, "You fill her in?"

"Well the quickest version I could come up, we don't have much time." Shepard shrugged.

"Nine hours by the way." Garrus said, tapping his wrist.

"Wait, what happens in nine hours?" Tali asked.

"That's when the Reaper IFF will be ready." Garrus replied.

Shepard nodded, "And ready or not we're going in and taking the fight to the Collectors. We've been preparing this whole time to finish off the Reaper's thralls once and for all. They're weak after the battle at Omega. We have to hit them as fast as we can before they regroup and commit to another attack."

Garrus then showed the X-1 Partizan, unfurling the white block from his back into the first true plasma rifle now, it's plasma coil reinforced but still glowing blue in the center, "We do have some new gear now thanks to Solvatas. That and her foot soldiers and ship can provide support. But now that the Collectors have the Aeldari helping them that makes things...complicated."

Tali raised her hands, "Wait a minute! So the Reapers have another race of thralls now?"

"I wouldn't say they're thralls, more like acquaintances with aligned interests." Shepard corrected.

Garrus raised a brow at that comment while returning his Partizan rifle to his back, "Much like us and Solvatas to be honest. Hell Tali you slept through the med bay getting blown up. If it wasn't for Nev'El, you and everyone in that room would have been dead."

Tali's eyes widened, "Ancestors that's crazy! Still I am grateful for not getting charr-broiled in my sleep. I should thank her when we're done here. Anything else I need to know?"

The Commander rose from his seat, "Only that we have nine hours to get all our equipment and people ready before we head through the Omega Relay. Misiya, the Quarian you met in medical has been trying to help revive Solvatas for the past few hours with little success. I know it's a bit much to ask but-"

Tali rolled her eyes and sighed, "Alright, I'll see what I can do to help her. Just so long as those robots give us space. It's difficult enough dealing with the idea of another AI species like the Geth looking over our shoulders with those...creepy eyes."

Garrus raised a talon, "They're not technically AI. Shepard explained it to me earlier that apparently they're organics who transferred their consciousnesses into robot bodies."

Tali shook her head in disbelief at the idea, "That's just ridiculous! Why would they think that that was a good idea!?"

Shepard shrugged, "Apparently organic existence for them was pretty harsh and brutal. The Necrons in the past lived pretty short lives. The idea of immortality seemed to appeal to their leaders. But that's a whole other story to delve into."

Tali held herself and furrowed her brow, "Unthinkable...still doesn't change what they are now, at least to me. Far too much like the Geth."

Garrus grimaced and coughed when she mentioned that, "Well...about that."

Tali frowned, "What?" she asked, as a cough from behind got her attention and she looked to the Commander.

Shepard spared his Turian friend the obligation of answering, "Technically there is also a Geth among the Necrons. It was the first one to reach out to me specifically. As part of a deal with Solvatas, she took it into her entourage."

The alien woman's glowing eyes widened and she shook a bit at the revelation, "What...but...Why?!"

"Because this was an opportunity Tali! We already have enough enemies as it is. The Geth came to us! Spoke to me and Solvatas! She then had a dialogue with their entire collective! It was a breakthrough for negotiations... to bring peace."

"Or an opportunity she could use to enslave them to her will! I'm still not wholly convinced that this...Vymark Necron or whatever she is calling herself doesn't have her own agenda with all of this."

"I know, but beggars can't be choosers and right now we have to make due with what we have and concede what we can to maintain this shaky alliance. So far Solvatas and Kor'Pharas have been true to their word and helped us develop weapons and equipment to take on the Reapers and possibly even her father. I'm with you on being wary, but I can't deny the benefits right now and we need every advantage we can get."

Tali grimaced, her hands were now on the side of her helmet shaking her head out of her anxiety, before sighing, "Alright...is there anything else I need to know about?"

"Right now I think that's all." Shepard answered.

"That's not a no." Tali said narrowing her eyes.

"No but I think that's all you need to deal with right now. We have less than nine hours now to get ready and I don't want to rush you but if we're going to succeed we need every advantage and that includes Solvatas. Will you help me? I promise I will make this up to you and your people just like before. A favor for a favor."

The Quarian took a breath to calm herself down and only needed but a moment to answer, "Oh alright of course. But only because you're the one asking. If it was anyone else, I would have told that Bosh'Tet that they could go to hell before walking away. Especially after that mess on Haestrom...what the Admiralty Board had us do. All those deaths and for what?" Tali said, her last few words spoken with bitterness.

"What happened on Haestrom?" Garrus asked.

Tali sighed, "The fleet has had scouting missions in old Quarian space to monitor Geth movements for some time now. One of them detected some strange readings from Haestrom's sun. We were sent to investigate. Sure enough, through much of the data I found on the old colony's records, I compared those records to the star's current emission readings. My hunch was right, Haestrom's sun was dying far too quickly. Especially considering its age. Dark energy was at the heart of it, but how I'm still not sure."

Shepard put a hand through his beard thoughtfully, "Hmmm, maybe our Necron friends could help answer that. If anyone would know anything about Dark Energy it would be them."

"Maybe but I'm not trusting them with this information...not just now." Tali retorted.

"It was just an idea, that's all." Shepard admitted.

Tali rolled her shoulders working out some stiffness before saying, "Well I suppose I better go then. I don't like any of this, but at least its good to know that you both are still here trying to keep things together."

Garrus smiled, "It'll be a little easier now that you're here. Couldn't ask for a better person to help keep the rest of us honest."

"Thank you Garrus. Didn't expect to hear that from you of all people." Tali beamed.

The Turian scratched his neck embarrassed, "Well, alot has happened. I've had to learn to appreciate the people in my life a bit more and...to be able to move forward despite all the crazy crap happening."

Tali smiled behind her mask, "It's good to see that. We'll talk more later alright?"

Garrus nodded and Tali turned to leave, walking past him and out of the conference room. Shepard in kind stood up and found his friend handing him a data pad, "How's our weapon situation?" the Commander asked.

"Jacob and I have been working the calibrations and diagnostics on all the new toys we've been getting. I think they're as good as they're going to get before we get into the fight."

Shepard nodded, "Good, make sure everyone gets enough rest and has their gear squared away before it all goes down. Ready or not, its all hands on deck from this point on."

"I noticed you didn't mention the Quarian's deal with the Necrons."

"She doesn't need to know it just yet. Either that or she already does."

"Okay...hopefully that doesn't come back to bite you at an inopportune moment."

"Just praying its a minor detail that won't need to come from me." Shepard said marking off items on the pad before handing it back to Garrus.

The Turian gave a concerned look before asking, "You think all of this is going to be enough? The Aeldari could have an entire fleet waiting for us. I'm not sure our stealth systems will be enough to get around something like that and with their psychic talents-"

"We'll just have to think of something. Solvatas could help with that if we can just get her on her feet. Until then I'll keep talking to Kor'Pharas...maybe he knows of some kind of tech he has that we can use for that situation."

"I hope so, cause right now...we're in uncharted territory Shepard. I don't know of any other assets we can call upon to help. It's...not ideal."

"I know, not a place I like being in either. Flying blindly into the unknown."

Garrus frowned, "We may lose more people from this operation than we want to Shepard. Are you ready for that?"

Shepard closed his eyes at the statement. He took a breath and then began walking past the Turian. Garrus then found the Commander looking at him, with his hand out ready to receive his. Garrus took it. Shepard's grip was tight and the avian alien saw in his friend's eyes a fiery resolve. The Commander swore to his comrade, "To the bitter end Garrus."

Garrus smiled, his expression turning to a grin as he too swore, "To the bitter end Commander."

"If this is it, then we choose to fight and die on our terms. Free of their control. No matter the cost."

The Turian nodded approvingly before they both released their hands and proceeded out of the conference room to make their final preparations.

---

Cae'Enarc, the port city of Hrios, seven hours till IFF readiness.

Tylon scowled behind his helmet. He was being escorted by the Autarch and several guards from the military port authority, approaching a planted garden by a civilian sidewalk. The flowers were of various shades some even shifting color before the eyes. The fragrances of the plants reminded the Aeldari outcast of memories of his previous life. His childhood upon Cae'Enarc was a modest one, though his father being who he was, thrust a lot of expectations on him from his society. In the end it was too much and eventually he had a falling out with his father before striking out on his own with others of like mind. Tylon tried to remember how long ago that was...before shaking his head and focusing back on the present, his anger rising once again. In stubborn defiance he stopped by the garden as his escorts kept moving forward.

The Autarch still in his ornate armor with cropped black hair, his own black and white helmet in his hands, turned along with his guards expressing an irritated look before an exasperated breath escaped his lips, "There is much for me to do, say what it is you have to say...outcast."

With balled fists Tylon shouted, "Why?! Why did you let them escape!? We had them in our grasp! We could have-"

The Aeldari commander replied dryly almost sounding bored, "As I said before back on the ship. The Normandy's destruction was not the objective. You were. Simple as that."

"I bit my tongue during our journey home, but I cannot stop myself from speaking on what I see now as utter incompetence! Sparing the Normandy and Rilli'Toill will only bring more death to our people!" The younger Aeldari retorted.

The Autarch's brow furrowed, "It is not your place to decide, outcast. You chose your fate when you and your fellows left to journey the stars on your own. Besides, the decision was not up to me. Even if it had been, I still wouldn't bow to the urgings of one who forsook his own people to pursue his wanderlust."

Tylon removed his helmet, fiery red hair falling beside his pointed ears, piercing blue eyes staring into the dark violet irises of the Autarch's now cold face. The younger Aeldari spat, "Mark my words, Shepard and that butcher with him will be our undoing if we allow it. Only their destruction will-."

An approaching voice called out to the group from behind, "You must forgive him Autarch. It seems time has done little to temper his passions."

An elegantly robed figure approached bearing the staff of a Farseer, eyes turned to black orbs and graying dark hair flowing from his head. Tylon scoffed as the elderly Aeldari approached them avoiding eye contact, "You and your men can leave us Autarch. I know you have preparations to make."

The Aeldari commander gave a short bow of respect toward his senior, "Of course. I only hope your son, Farseer Grenthor, appreciates the sacrifices that were made to ensure he was able to return home... for however long he is here. If you would excuse me."

The Autarch and his guards took his leave back to the military port authority before Grenthor approached Tylon. The younger Aeldari still avoided his father's gaze but still glanced at his sire. The elder merely walked by his son while telling him, "Walk with me."

I suppose I was due for another lecture upon my return, Tylon thought to himself. The two Aeldari walked through the garden until they reached a bench where Grenthor sat, closing his eyes and taking in the smell of his surroundings. Tylon shook his head in disbelief, "Our people stand on the precipice of crisis and you're deciding it best to take in the flowers?"

"No I am basking in the moment, appreciating that my son whom I have not seen for so long has returned to speak with me once again. You can at least humor an old man with some respect and grace."

"Not while the dead remain unavenged."

Grenthor sighed, "Halentil-"

"My name is Tylon father. For I now walk the hunter's path. Neither Shepard nor even Rilli'Toill herself will escape my vengeance. Blood must be repaid with blood."

The Farseer shook his head, "As fiery as when we last spoke. But despite this mask you now wear, I still remember the young inquisitive child. The one who engorged on the tales of old and appreciated the stories I weaved before him."

"That child is long gone father."

"Not to me...never."

Tylon scoffed, "We're wasting time father. If there is nothing more to talk about then-"

"The council has already made it's decision Halentil. The seer council and tribune have agreed to my plan. The tyrant Kotorin shall be the focus of our efforts. Not the Normandy. A fleet is being assembled but it has been determined an armada is far from necessary."

"What?! Against the old enemy, nothing less than the very best of what we have should be brought to bear!"

"The Tyrant is no fool boy! Surely you've hunted enough to know that. We need only show enough force to provoke him into action."

"And how do we know if what we bring will cause him to come at all? What if he brings a grand fleet to see us all dead?! No doubt he recalls what you did to him before. Their kind's memories run just as long as ours."

"That is if their mind's aren't rusting into madness. Perhaps you should trust father's judgement this one time brother." said another familiar sarcastic voice from behind the Aeldari outcast.

Tylon huffed and looked over his shoulder, seeing a dark haired male Aeldari who looked more like a younger version of his father. His younger brother, Allil. He wore the armor of a warlock, his black and white helm in his hands wearing a look of pity on his face.

The elder brother was not impressed, "Father's visions aren't always clear... or correct, little brother. Perhaps if you could step from the witch path for a while you could understand that fate is not that rigid."

Allil nodded, "Would that I could brother. It is good to see you again in the flesh rather than my witch sight. When I heard you returned to stop the Tyrant's lackeys, I was quite surprised. I thought you had sworn off any sort of affairs with home long ago?"

Tylon scowled at his father, "I assume you planned this 'family reunion' father? To what end? To convince me to surrender my oath of vengeance? To spare me a cruel fate?"

The Farseer narrowed his eyes toward his wayward son, "To remind you there is more at stake here than your petty vengeance."

The elder Aeldari stood up, causing Tylon to look away. When Grenthor stood face to face with his wayward son he sternly spoke, "Look at me."

Tylon slowly met his father's gaze, his eyes still black as night. Then Grenthor closed his eyes and when he opened them again and a sigh left the older man's lips, the aged green eyes that Tylon had not seen for so long met his. Grenthor embraced his son, catching the younger Aeldari off guard. He hesitantly returned the gesture as the Farseer spoke, "In the end you are still my first born son. Your mother's joy and my pride. Despite all that has come between us before and no matter what happens tomorrow, that will never change Halentil."

The firebrand Aeldari's features softened as he took in his father's words. They then parted their embrace, but Tylon caught sight of a glint of something in his sire's eyes that suddenly caused Grenthor pain. The elder Aeldari clutched his head with one hand and Allil rushed to help him saying, "Are you alright father? is it-"

Grenthor waved his youngest son off, "I'm fine Allil. Age merely bites at my heels."

"What was that father?" Tylon asked earnestly.

"It is nothing." The Farseer denied again.

Allil shook his head, "Do you really need to mar this moment for the sake of face father?"

Grenthor sighed as his youngest son helped him back to the bench, the elder Aeldari's knees suddenly buckling. Tylon was confused and concerned, asking earnestly, "What is going on Allil?"

Allil took a sorrowful breath and replied, "Age does bite at father brother...he has been consulting the Circuit amongst the Crystal Seers again. He did it after your failure to stop Shepard from retrieving what he sought."

While Tylon wasn't entirely familiar with everything along the witch path he did know of the Crystal Seers. The crystalized remains of Farseers communing with the Infinity Circuits of their craftworlds, or in Cae'Enarc's case a World Circuit. While it could provide one incredibly foresight into the warp, the process is dangerous. Warp energy often crystalized within and upon the body of the psyker during the process. One could lose themselves completely, becoming a crystalline statue, their spirit leaving and becoming one with the Circuit. This is especially risky for older psykers who do not have as much strength to resist the process. Often it is how Aeldari psykers chose to peacefully pass on.

Tylon scowled and shook his head, "And you call me a fool father."

Grenthor's eyes returned to their nightly black, his voice resonating, "What is done is done boy. It's too late to stop it now. This will be my last dance with the old enemy, one way or another. Your part in this is done and for the duration you will remain here."

"What?! You expect me to just stand aside and watch you go to your death?!" Tylon exclaimed.

Grenthor raised a hand, his voice booming with authority, "Whether I live or die is inconsequential! This is my choice Halentil! You will not interfere in this. If you have any respect for me and your kin, you will honor my decision. Besides...there is another reason I need you to stay."

The elder Aeldari looked behind him and called softly, "Come forth my dearest, it is time to show him."

From behind the grove of plants and bushes around Grenthor's bench, a beautiful elderly Aeldari woman appeared. Her hair was fiery red flowing past her shoulders, her lips on her smiling face full and inviting and she wore a conservative gown of beautiful silks of purple and green. It was Tylon's mother, Cionni. Beside her was a young girl who shared his mother's hair standing at hip height wearing a similar gown.

Cionni spoke happily, "It is good to see you again Halentil."

"That is not my name now moth-"

Cutting him off she quickly shook her head, "Did you not hear your father's words before? His words are also mine and I never will accept such grim talk. You will always be my boy, no matter what face you claim to wear."

Wisely Tylon decided to accept his mother's words and remained silent a moment before asking, "Who is this with you?"

"Do you not see the likeness?" Cionni said as she bent down. Her face came side by side with the young girl who kept her hands around her mother's legs not taking her eyes off the stranger in front of her. After a moment of examining them Tylon's eyes went wide and he huffed at Grenthor with a hint of disgust, "Truly father?!"

"It was something...that I did not foresee." The elderly man sheepishly replied.

Tylon groaned, "Oh please, I don't believe that. Conceiving a child for this moment and using my honor to bend me to your will! Such a thing is not beyond the sight or even the means of your path!"

Allil shook his head at the remark, "Ridiculous brother. You said it yourself that one cannot wholly predict everything. I agree and sometimes we can look so far ahead we don't see outcomes along our own path."

Grenthor furrowed his brow at his eldest son, "The point is Halentil, your mother and your sister need you. It is not certain that your brother or myself will return from this next ballad of war. You've contributed enough to this duty for now. Please, I need you to stay. For their sake...so that I can go fulfill what must be."

The Farseer stood up, seemingly recovered from his earlier episode. Tylon shook his head at his father, but kept his tone hushed for the sake of the girl, "The enemy can never find us here! Mother and this new sister can take care of themselves."

"Do not be so confident in that. For one day, it is possible that our enemies will be at our gates...relishing our children's blood on their blades. If we all perish outside our gates pursuing the enemy, who will be left to protect our sanctuary?"

"I am no guard father..."

"No, but you can be for a time can you not? I am not asking for eternal vigilance. Only for now. I know I can't stop you forever. Khaine's fury burns deep in you and even in this moment I can feel it in your mind. But please...give an old man some small comfort."

Tylon closed his eyes, breathed to seemingly calm down his fury towards the situation. But when his eyes opened again, only an angered reply followed, "No."

Grenthor scowled, "But you must, there is no one else-"

"Then you clearly haven't tried hard enough. There are plenty here who could fulfill the role of a guardian. With all due respect to mother and the little one...I do not know her. Nor would her innocence compel me now even if I had been with her since birth."

"So once again you place the burden at my feet brother?" Allil replied annoyed, crossing his arms.

Tylon looked to his sibling, "You've seemed to have done well so far little brother, far be it from me to get in your way."

"You will stay here Halentil-" Grenthor commanded before Tylon cut him off.

"I will not." Tylon glanced at his mother and his sister who then held her mother tightly due to the tension amongst her family. The wayward Aeldari outcast sighed before turning and walking away. Incensed, Grenthor then shouted, "Where do you think you're going?!"

"Away from here, I knew it was a mistake to return to this place. You will never change father and that is something I always chaffed at." Tylon spun to look at his father, an angered scowl on his face, "You always manipulated events to set me on the 'righteous' path. You never truly left me with a choice! I and everyone else had to follow the path you and the other elders set for us for so many cycles. Yet I thought we were free? That we could finally seize control of our own fates after so many generations of living in fear for our lives and our souls! Yet you and the other seers of the council continue to steer us to your designs!"

"Is that not my duty as elder and as your father? I did what-"

"Oh spare me such tripe! You manipulated events so that I would always do what you wanted, you made me lose friends and forced me to interact only with others that you approved of! I never had a say. I always kept my mouth closed and nodded like a good child until finally I realized the truth! That I was no better than a slave to your whims! Especially when you lied to me about what happened to Variathia!"

"Yet if I hadn't you would have tracked her killer down and died in the attempt! You were not ready for the hunt then and it seems you are still not ready now!"

"I don't care what you think of my capability, I will fulfill my oath! I swore that to my dear friends who died on that accursed ship that much! They were my true family! They deserved better!"

"They died because you went against orders! You were not meant to kill Shepard or his master!"

"Why?! Because it goes against your prophesy!? Damn you and damn your visions father! They have enslaved you just as the old enemy enslave the Mon'Keigh!"

Grenthor's pyschic power began to channel through his hands as electricity, the elder Aeldari's patience reaching its end, "You cannot change this fate Halentil, either you submit or there will be consequences!"

Tylon was incredulous, "You don't have the stomach for it father. I know you don't, you didn't then and you don't now. Displaying your power means little to me."

The outcast turned to leave and found Allil blocking his path, a hand firmly blocking Tylon's departure, "Out of my way little brother." The Aeldari outcast warned.

Allil shook his head, "Halentil... don't force this course onto us."

"Then do what you must, because if you don't...then I will." Tylon replied glaring, his fists now tightening.

The elder brother attempted to grab and shove Allil out of the way only for the younger Aeldari to blast a wave of psychic force that sent him back. Tylon was able to recover from the wave of rushing air and remain standing, gritting his teeth at the sudden attack. Allil adopted a fighting stance with one open palm, psychic power beginning to flow through as electricity flowed between his fingers.

Tylon grinned, "Well...when did you get a spine?"

"Since you've been away indulging yourself, I have been studying and training for my path. I am not the same little brother that you left behind."

"Yet you still carry that same naivete. Indeed I have indulged myself, in more ways than you can imagine little brother. With a look like that I suppose we'll have to settle this like in the old days." the outcast said, still grinning as he brought up his fists in a fighting stance of his own.

"Don't try it brother...you will lose. I have seen it."

"Enough of your foresight, either fight or get out of my way!"

"That's enough Halentil! You're scaring Ellaine and making a scene in front of everyone!" Cionni shouted.

In that moment Allil hesitated, distracted by his mother's declaration and losing his focus out of self-awareness. He then noticed the people around them watching, some covering their mouths in shock at what was happening. Before Allil could tell his brother to stop, Tylon attacked, rushing and punching him across the face and sending his younger sibling onto the wraithbone pavement.

Tylon eased back and looked back to his mother, "And thank you mother for proving my point! Take the girl from here if this is all too much for her. But I will never forgive father for what he's done." The elder brother than scowled back at his brother, "or what this little accomplice did."

Allil tasted blood mixed with spit in his mouth as he groaned. He spat the liquid out and got back to his feet, "You didn't leave me a choice Halentil! I had to tell father what you were doing! You were only going to get yourself killed!"

Tylon didn't listen, only letting out an angry roar as he came after his brother fists flying toward his face and gut. Allil guarded against the attacks and pooled psychic power through his free hand before pulling it back. A sudden blast of power struck Tylon from behind and allowed Allil to get in a hit, striking his elder sibling in the stomach. The fist was lightly charged with psychic power giving the blow enough force to knock the wind out of the enraged Aeldari.

Suddenly blood spat from Tylon's mouth and Allil gasped in shock, "Brother!"

Tylon fell to one knee and held his midsection, trying to catch his breath as he derided, "You...damned idiot..."

Allil now wore a worried look as he approached cautiously, "Are you alright! I didn't mean to-"

In a sudden burst of strength, Tylon gained a second wind and tackled Allil before beginning to throw upon him a flurry of punches. The younger brother took several hits to the face before being able to bring up his arms to guard himself. Tylon continued to deride as he kept punching, every word following his fists, "If...you are going... to fight...don't...hold...back!"

Several more punches followed before suddenly a field of energy surrounded Tylon's body and he found himself incredibly slowed to move. He was able to glance back to see his father, hand outstretched and glowing with electricity jumping along his open palm. Grenthor shouted, "That is enough!" before Tylon found Allil kicking him off. The field around the outcast dissipated as he hit the ground. The stomping of armored footsteps caught everyone's attention as a force of Aeldari Guardians arrived with rifle-like Shuriken weapons drawn on the scene. Armored in black and white with blue eyed helmets, a dozen of them surrounded the area and slowly approached with weapons drawn toward the two combatants. The Aeldari Autarch from earlier reappeared from behind the guards, his bored look matched his tone as he spoke, "Well outcast it would appear you have done everything I expected you to. How predictable."

Grenthor strode toward the Aeldari Commander and assured him, "Autarch Kriel, I will handle this. Halentil will be taken back to our home where you can keep him under house arrest if it should please you."

Guardians hoisted up Tylon by his arms, weapons trained on him as he exclaimed, "Oh by the gods father! Just take me to the damned brig!"

Kriel raised an eyebrow towards Grenthor, "It would appear your son prefers a cell to your comforts Farseer. How could I deny someone who clearly understands what he is."

Grenthor furrowed his brow at the Autarch, "He is grief stricken from the loss of his comrades. His rage is towards me and me alone, no one else needs to get involved in this."

"Oh? And I am just to ignore the disturbance he is causing? Getting into fights with family members out on the street in front of all? He was cast out for a reason Farseer. You yourself agreed that exile was the wisest course of action for him all those years ago."

"That may be...but he is still my son."

"Yes and I can understand the pain this situation causes you. Therefore I shall deal with this. You and your other son need to prepare for the operation ahead. Not to be distracted by the wiles of a wayward fool."

"But he is my son!"

"All the more reason you leave it to me. Your son will be cared for appropriately in accordance with our laws. Not even you are above that Farseer Grenthor. Remember that."

Grenthor sighed and finally relented. The Autarch turned on his heels and motioned for the Guardians to follow. The Aeldari soldiers relaxed and put the outcast in cuffs before escorting him to the port authority. Tylon gave a vindicated smile as he was taken away by the armored Guardians. Allil dusted himself off and recovered his helmet from a bush that he had placed it by before confronting his brother. The younger Aeldari gave a sad look to Grenthor as he approached him, "I'm sorry I couldn't stop him father."

The Farseer gave a light smile, "It is alright. You did well. Your control of your gift has come a long way since you first started this path Allil. It does my heart good to see that."

Allil returned the smile back to his sire as his mother and sister approached, both wearing looks of concern. Cionni shook her head, tears beginning to bud along her eyes, "So it is like this yet again with Halentil. My boy is truly lost to the rage of Khaine and there is nothing I can do."

Grenthor held and comforted his wife, while Ellaine held onto both their legs and burrowed her face in her mother's dress. Allil looked back to the Guardians taking his brother one last time before returning his gaze back to his family. He walked over to his father as he held his weeping mother and reminded, "The Autarch is right father, we have much to do before battle begins."

The Farseer nodded towards his son and looked upon Cionni. Tears were coming down her face as he told her, "Forgive me dearest...but it is time."

The Aeldari woman shook her head and sighed with resignation, "Now I am going to lose you as well. I wanted us all to come together one last time. Before...before you go."

"I know...I wish it didn't end this way. But fate is fickle and hearts can be stubborn. I do not hold that against him. Halentil is not wrong in his condemnation...I failed him."

"We failed him." Cionni corrected.

Now it was Grenthor's turn to grimace at that, nodding in agreement. He felt a tug at his leg and found Ellaine there. Tears were welling up in her eyes, "Don't go poppa!" she cried.

"Oh little one, I am so sorry. But I must." Grenthor explained sadly.

The girl buried her face in her father's robes, "You said the evil ones were gone! That we were safe now and no one needed to leave to fight!"

"Forgive me Ellaine, but it would appear I was wrong. An old evil has arisen again, and I must rise one last time to meet it."

"Why you poppa!?"

The elderly Aeldari scooped the little girl into his arms and wiped the tears off her face, "Because it is my fate. The fate of our people, to face the old enemy and destroy them. Show me your hand."

The girl did as she was told and her father then placed his hand in hers and closed his eyes. She winced in slight pain and felt a warm electrical feeling in her palm. Grenthor let out a breath of relief as he finished the work. When he removed his hand from her palm, she found an ethereal symbol etched into her hand that glowed for a moment, then slowly disappeared into her flesh.

Grenthor than looked to his daughter and smiled, "This is my gift to you my little one. This will protect you during the difficult days to come. No matter where I am or whatever you will face, my gift will protect you."

Ellaine began to cry again and buried herself into her father's chest. He consoled the girl for a moment before returning her to Cionni.

"Goodbye my love. Whether in this form or in spirit, I will return to you." Grenthor said to her.

Cionnie looked to her husband while holding the crying Ellaine, "I know...goodbye my dearest."

"Goodbye mother." Allil said standing next to his father.

The Aeldari woman looked over to her son, "Come back to me Allil, please. Don't throw your life away foolishly."

Allil nodded and motioned to his father. Grenthor and Allil took their leave and proceeded to the starport, leaving Cionni to watch the both of them depart. All while trying to console and sooth Ellaine as she wept upon her.

As they walked, Allil spoke with his power to his father's mind, "Though things didn't turn out as you wanted...did we avert what you saw?"

Grenthor sighed wordlessly in his mind, "No...I don't believe so. But it may be that it is not for this ballad of war. It could very well be after our conflict with Shepard and his masters. Whether or not I live after this, I'm afraid that this task will fall squarely on your shoulders Allil. I am so sorry this burden falls upon you my boy...but I can trust no other with this."

Allil nodded, still speaking directly to his father's mind, "Of course father. Regardless of the outcome, I am honored to bear witness to your final dance."

Grenthor smiled, "Thank you...at the very least I know I can always count on you. Let us proceed to my ship, we will need to conduct the ritual to awaken the Shard of Anaris."

---

Normandy Medical Bay, four hours till IFF readiness.

The Quarian women were working fervishly at their holographic consoles. Tali and Misiya had been at it non-stop for hours trying to pin down this virus. Solvatas was now still, lying on the obsidian slab in the medical bay. The bay itself was still scorched from the earlier explosion, with make shift tools and computer systems piled around on two beds beside the floating Necron platform. Misiya's eyes were shifting left and right as they examined the code that traversed her screen, scrutinizing the code fragments that their programs could garner from the partially translated Necron systems.

She suddenly growled in frustration, "No no no! Miss Tali, its happening again!"

Tali left her screen on the opposite side of Misiya. She was now rummaging through the supplies she had requested earlier, "What sub-system is it this time?"

"To be honest I have no idea what this is supposed to be but some kind of chrono-something lattice or...ancestors I don't know but its scrambling and the virus is reassembling itself from the code!"

Now Tali'Zorah groaned, lifting up a tube connected to a large square box connected to the wall, "Ancestors preserve us, I am getting really tired of this thing! We may have to do something drastic."

"Like what?"

Tali then connected said tube that magnetically attached into Solvatas' rib cage, "We may have to use a power surge. This breaker box is connected to the Normandy's power supply. With the right voltage we can cause a surge to force her system to shut down and reboot."

"That sounds like a terrible idea!...Uhm with all due respect ma'am."

"At this point all I have left are terrible ideas and those bone-metal Bosh'tets out there are not helping!" Tali said pointing outside.

At those words, Kor'Pharas entered with slitted eyes. His audio emitters hissed with irritation, "You do realize little fleshling that I am not that far and we can hear you quite clearly."

"Then maybe you can give me something to save your damn Vymark's life." Tali retorted crossing her arms.

"I told you before, if we had a means to aid you we would have given it to you. The fact that we are letting you attempt this at all is generous."

"Oh, I'm supposed to be grateful being under all this pressure just hours before a major operation? Wonderful. So let's, how the humans would say, cut the crap. The virus keeps re-emerging and reforming in her sub-systems. We have been rebooting and purging it with anti-virus protocols but it keeps on coming back. Whatever this is, it is likely embedded in the root code of her frame's programming. If we want to cut this thing out we need to be able to access her system's core."

The Necron Praetorian bent over, his death mask getting ever closer to Tali's own mask, where she could see his displeasure quite closely, "You want me...to give you intimate access to the Vymark?"

"If you want to save her life...yes."

"I can't do that."

"Why not?"

"Protocol does not allow for violation of such intimate systems by unauthorized outside parties. The punishment for such is death."

"So you'd kill me after I save her life? What kind of nonsense is this?"

"It was to prevent rivals from manipulating or meddling with the internal workings of each other over petty matters. But that is not the conflict with your demand. The problem is that even if I desired to, I cannot grant what I have no right to give. Only the Vymark herself can allow you access and it would appear that she is no state to grant such a request."

"Well, then you leave us with little choice. We'll have to force a surge within her system to cause a reboot and pray her systems restart and then we can purge the virus from the affected sub-systems before it can fully reform. Even then if it's in her core programming it will just re-emerge again with time. All we're doing right now is putting out fires.

Tali frowned gazing into the Praetorian's slitted oculars, "You want this fixed? We need access."

A hissing sound came from the Necron's audio emitters reminding Tali of a sigh. The Praetorian stepped back and began to turn to leave. The Quarian thought back to some earlier questions she had asked Shepard regarding the Triarch. From that conversation the Quarian came to under that the Praetorians were also government agents. Perhaps there was an angle there she thought to herself. She then asked, "Surely a servant of the Triarch would have some kind of means to deal with this type of situation."

"There is not." The Praetorian stated still walking away.

Tali followed him still irritated, "I find that hard to believe. Especially with a race of such arrogant and egotistical Bosh'tets. Are you really going to let your people's best chance for the future die? All because you can't bend the rules?"

The Praetorian stopped and glared out her with glowing eyes, "Even if the protocol isn't enforced immediately, the fact that any violation occurred at all, would never leave my memory. A higher authority could scan my data banks and easily discover it. Then I would be forced to submit myself to judgement. Who is to say that if one day, our Silent King comes to this place, and finds his loyal subject had committed such a violation. It would be... inexcusable. Even if it was done in the name of the greater good."

"So you're saying it's possible? That you can do it... but simply are choosing not to?"

The Praetorian seemingly ignored her questions and continued to leave, but stopped mid-way through the door. His machine mind was processing the possibilities and potential outcomes, slowly succumbing to the Quarian's logic. It was forcing him to debate internally with his directives. Eventually, after twenty seconds of silently standing in the doorway, leaving Tali sighing.

She then turned to begin following through on her 'bad idea'. The Praetorian then turned around. His stomping feet quickly getting the Quarian duo's attention. Another sigh emitted from Kor'Pharas as his sheer presence forced Tali and Misiya to get out of his way to engage with a holographic interface that appeared in front of him by the obsidian slab.

Interacting with the interface via his skeletal fingers, he seemed to initiate something which flashed a kind of warning that Tali didn't understand. Kor'Pharas seemed to hesitate, then suddenly pressed with his index finger on a symbol. He then spoke to the women, his tone somber, "Look to your console Quarian. Find this symbol alongside others like this."

Tali looked to the screen Kor'Pharas was looking at and found such ones on her screen. The Praetorian continued to instruct her and before she knew it, thirty minutes had passed. Peeling back all the layers of security was exhausting. Interlocking firewalls and programming locks designed to keep Solvatas' main systems safe from intrusion took many steps to bypass. After the last step, Tali was finally in.

The Quarian engineer groaned, "Thank the Ancestors that's over with. Now we can fix this and-"

"Do not be so sure Quarian. Look what is before you." Kor'Pharas warned.

When Misiya and Tali looked to their screens. They had become flooded with symbols, numbers, and what they could only interpret from their console's screens as nonsense. This was due to the computer not being able to properly translate all the data that was coming in. It was an immense amount of code. This would take hours to sift through at this rate! Misiya whimpered at seeing it, while Tali looked to the Praetorian annoyed, "Are you kidding me?"

"I believe that would be impossible. It appears your consoles, as they are, are insufficient to understand the data. You will need to use my interface from this point onward."

"But we don't know this level of your people's programming language!" Tali said exasperated.

"Precisely why I didn't consider this option initially."

"Having difficulty Praetorian?" spoke a familiar voice over the Necron's internal comms.

Kor'Pharas stood up straight, his ocular lens burning brightly as he replied, "Du'Maat?"

"Indeed. I had just finished procuring the last of my payment from the Phaeron and decided to speak with Solvatas one last time before I begin my work. But it seems she is still indisposed."

"I am afraid so." Kor'Pharas lamented.

"Surprising. I didn't think Kotorin had that much of an understanding of my work on viruses. Perhaps he is not completely useless without me. That is slightly disconcerting." Du'Maat mused.

"Respectfully Cryptek, can you help us? Time is of the essence and we need the Vymark to lead her forces."

A chuckle emanated from the comm, "Oh...oh my. My dear Praetorian what have you done?"

"Irrelevant, where do we isolate and destroy this virus afflicting the Vymark?"

"A simple matter, I can send you the virus data that Kotorin clearly copied from. He may have changed a few variables here and there but it should be elementary to deduce. But you do realize what you have done by giving those fleshlings such sensitive information haven't you?"

Kor'Pharas was silent, eliciting another chuckle from the aloof Cryptek, "What would the Vymark do if she were to discover what you have done?"

"What is done is done. I will place myself at her mercy. It was a calculated risk and the odds of it succeeding were...inadequate. However, based on current projections, any attempt was deemed a better alternative than failing to perform any action at all. Better to have attempted something to create an outcome for the sake of the Triarch...then to stand by and let our best chance for our people in this galaxy die out."

The Cryptek sighed thoughtfully, "So true, the sacrifices we must make now truly test the protocols that keep us ordered and sane. But now, change is inevitable. Therefore we must be prepared to do what we believe we must. You and I are not so different in that Praetorian. Give Solvatas my regards upon her awakening. I wish you all luck in your coming battle."

"We could use your strength Du'Maat. Your knowledge and skills would be most appreciated."

"You flatter me, but I am afraid I have my own objectives to accomplish at this time. Perhaps in the future, we can come to some kind of...arrangement. Provided you have something of value for me. Until then, farewell."

The wireless data packet from Du'Maat was delivered to Kor'Pharas' memory banks as the communique ended. Kor'Pharas parsed through it, the lights of his ocular lenses pulsing. He continued to stand there and digest the data, ignoring any protests from a perturbed Tali still not understanding what was going on. Finally he turned and startled the Quarian women, his voice authoritative and precise, "Quarians, I have the solution to this situation. Follow my instructions precisely... and do not deviate from it in any manner. Doing so may cause damage to the Vymark's internal code and you will face my ire if you do so. Do you understand?"

Misiya gulped and nodded, whereas Tali simply sighed, "Let's just get this damn thing over with."

---

Thirty minutes later...

Commander Shepard came through the elevator to the medical area of the ship after hearing the good news. Tali and Misiya had finally done it! The Commander then encountered the former as she strode from the med-bay, "Great job Tali! I knew you could do it." He congratulated.

"Technically I was just doing what he told me, once he got what he needed." Tali replied, thumb pointing behind her.

Kor'Pharas approached, though Tali gave the Necron an annoyed look while he reported the situation, "The Vymark's systems have finally stabilized and the other Quarian is currently going over system checks. I am confident that all traces of the virus have been neutralized."

"Hope so, I'd hate for her to suddenly break down during combat." Shepard commented.

The Praetorian shook his head, "Unlikely, Du'Maat was able to provide some unexpected assistance in this matter. Though he apparently has no intent to aid us in our mission directly."

Shepard crossed his arms, "Then why is he helping?"

"Sentimentality most likely. He also did remark that we could exchange something of value in the future for his services. But after his betrayal of the Phaeron, I would recommend caution. Crypteks with a reputation for turning on their clients make poor business associates."

"I'll keep that in mind. Can I see her now?" Shepard asked.

Tali nodded, "Sure, Misiya should be wrapping up the system checks by now. I just need to go get some air. Maybe work with something less complicated where I don't have to deal with metal Bosh'tets staring at me. Or being critical of my code injections."

The Praetorian shrugged, "Frankly Quarian, your code 'injections' were barely passable. I suppose I could have spared us both the trouble and handled the virus entirely on my own once I received Du'Maat's data."

"Seriously?! Then what was that talk about you being unable to change the code due to protocol?! Why put us both through all that if it didn't matter?!"

"To see if you were capable. After all, the Solvatakh Dynasty is currently in a contract with your race. Your species are renowned engineers and code experts. I was simply curious how much of your reputation was true."

"What?!"

Tali looked at Shepard with an incensed expression. He held up his hands with a pained look on his face, "I only learned about the deal recently as well. I don't know how indepth-"

The furious Quarian raised her hands in exasperation, "Alright! That does it! No more requests or favors! I am going back to the engineering room and you can have your own special operation with these skeletal Bosh'tets!"

"Tali wait!" Shepard pleaded.

The Quarian girl stomped off to the elevator still fuming. By contrast, Kor'Pharas gave a light chuckle that Shepard quickly picked up on. Returning an irritated glare at the Necron he huffed "That wasn't necessary."

"No, but her reactions are...amusing." The Praetorian said, his words emitting that of a smirk behind his emotionless mask.

Shepard furrowed his brow at the Necron, "We need everyone to be on the same page for this operation. I don't need unnecessary drama stirred up by some of us pushing each other's buttons."

"I agree. Perhaps it is best she do her part...far from us. I am sure the Vymark would agree."

The Commander huffed and continued on past the Praetorian who remained with several of the Necron Warriors guarding the med-bay doors. Shepard found Solvatas sitting up upon the obsidian platform looking to Misiya as she went over her holographic readout. Beside the slab was Legion and Nev'El who still bore some scarring upon her frame that was gradually reforming.

"As far as I can tell uhm...ma'am, there are still some errors in your lower leg actuators. But I think when you reconnect with your ship's wireless network, your systems should be able to correct them." Misiya reported as she inputted the data onto a PDA.

Solvatas nodded approvingly when she noticed Shepard, "Ah, Commander."

"How are you feeling?" Shepard asked.

"While I technically feel nothing, my systems for the most part are nominal. Once final checks are complete I will need to return to my ship to ensure the resolution of any software errors."

"We don't have much time before the IFF is ready. I was hoping to go over our strategy with you."

"Of course, bring all relevant parties to the briefing room within the next hour and we shall begin in earnest."

Shepard nodded and began to leave when Solvatas called out, "Oh and Commander."

"Yes?"

"...Thank you. You did more than was necessary to ensure my survival. I will not forget this."

The Commander simply gave Solvatas a smile and a nod as he left through the med-bay doorway.

---

Normandy Conference Room, one hour before mission start.

Everyone that wasn't immediately on task was in the conference room, surrounding the table. A holographic representation of the Omega Relay was there, along with what appeared to be pirate ships of varying makes. Solvatas was on one side of the table with her aides while Shepard stood across with members of his team looking at the hologram. He turned to his crew and announced, "This is it. Ready or not we have to seize the initiative and take the fight to the Collectors before they can regroup and attack again."

Solvatas nodded, "Indeed, but are you certain you have no one else you can call upon Shepard?"

"I've tried channels to both Councilor Anderson and Admiral Hackett. However, I've been told that because of the incident on the Citadel that we caused...well I'm pretty much disavowed on all official communiques. I figured that was the case, but I at least wanted them to know what we're getting into and that their help would be appreciated if they could give it."

Gefren shook his head, "Typical, but I suppose it is best to try keep the lines of communication open. Who knows, perhaps in the future when things calm down-"

The Necron lord huffed, interrupting the small alien, "That is highly unlikely Volus. The Council and the Alliance will soon be embroiled in reports of my father's invasion of the Terminus. They will more likely be looking to their own survival, rather then to the success of a mission from what their governments would consider a rogue agent."

Miranda narrowed her eyes, "Yet its a mission that could potentially change the future of the whole galaxy, especially against the Reapers. If they knew how important this was and could look past their own prejudices they would have been able to provide some kind of support."

Solvatas shook her head, "Irrelevant, Miss Lawson. What we need at this moment is a real force that's a threat to the Aeldari and right now...I see no other alternative. We will need my father's help."

"Who just happens to be the one who wants you dead and just left you to this task completely on your own because that's how you Necrons prosecute campaigns. How did your kind get to be masters of your universe again?" Garrus asked wryly.

The Necron slowly looked in the Turian's direction, wearing slitted eyes of irritation, "By annihilating the ones 'greater' than us Turian. To be honest my uncle Khazarakh was the one who typically led our armies. The Solvatakh Dynasty back then was ironically one of the larger dynasties during the end of the old war. By the time of our awakening and current times however, we are now but a mere fraction of our former strength. But even so, I don't believe my father has been idle in preparation for his invasion of the Terminus. Though he has kept the numbers from me, I don't doubt he has a capable fleet amassing somewhere."

Garrus raised a scaled brow, "But you have no idea if he does? Not exactly reassuring."

The Necron lord crossed her arms, "He wouldn't execute an invasion if he didn't. Nor would he be confident without some capacity to back up his claims."

"So we call on the one who condemned you to death to fight our battle?" Grunt snarled.

"Only if we need him to deal with an Aeldari fleet." Solvatas corrected, "Otherwise the forces we have should be enough to defeat the remnants of the Collectors or at the very least be enough to decapitate their leadership. I have hundreds of my own warriors along with auxiliaries and loyal Omega units for support. As you can see they are waiting for us at the Mass Relay. Once the IFF is ready, I will disperse the Reaper IFF codes to my fleet."

At that Shepard nodded and stepped out from his group to step between the two sides, where he announced to both, "Here's the plan. Solvatas and I have agreed that she will be the first one through to the other side. Due to the nature of the Aeldari's psychic talents, its very possible they would pick up organic minds that traverse through the relay and get spotted early. Therefore Solvatas will take her ship, the Shuvat, and scout ahead of us. Once she reports the situation we have several options."

Solvatas strode beside Shepard and then looked to the holographic display on the table. With a wave of her hand she changed it to represent differing formations of ships facing each other. The Normandy, Shuvat, and the rest of the Vymark's allied vessels were blue while the potential Aeldari vessels were red, "I will go over several likely scenarios in regards to the enemy composition."

The hologram showed the scenario with no enemy ships present and a Mass Relay behind the allied fleet. The Vymark then continued, "In the event there is no Aeldari presence, the plan is for the Normandy and my vessel to assess the situation and locate the enemy base of operations before infiltrating it for its destruction. The remaining portions of the fleet will stay back and remain in reserve in case we need support. Here they will be charged with protecting the Relay in case we need to abort the mission or standing by in the event the enemy counter attacks. My fleet may be a rather...diverse force since being in exile I have to rely on those who choose to follow me, but the escort vessels carry potent Necron weaponry to level the playing field."

The display then revealed a small detachment of Aeldari vessels, ranging from frigate class to light cruisers, Solvatas continued, "If there are Aeldari forces present but not significant, the plan will still proceed but more cautiously. If we are detected, no doubt enemy reinforcements will arrive and we will be embroiled in a vicious void battle. Thankfully for all of you, I have had the forsight to have my forces prepare several critical items in my possession. I had them prepared several day ago for this operation."

The holographic image of ships then shifted temporarily to a spinning green crystal bonded with Necrodermis. Fingers of the living metal spread across it like the wiring of a circuit board with vias pathways carved into it, "This is a Gloom Prism. Normally mounted as a weapon for some of our constructs, it generates an anti-psychic nullification field around the target, severing their connection to the Immaterium. It is devastating to psykers, but at worst to normal organics it causes mere mental strain and some physical discomfort. I've taken several of them and have attached them to amplifiers upon my ship and several others in my reinforcing fleet. Combined with our ships running silent, along with another device in my possession, that should make us invisible to their Farseer's eyes and ship sensors. While they could perhaps sense something amiss they wouldn't be able to tell where it's coming from."

"So while we're cloaked from the telepaths, we'll be operating with migraines? Not exactly sure if its a fair trade to be honest." Kasumi remarked.

The Necron shrugged, "It's either that or you will have the Aeldari fleet falling upon you, blasting your ship out of the void. It is a small price to pay to ensure the mission is successful... thief."

"How does that thing throw off sensor pings? Wouldn't the Aeldari have something more advanced than what we have?" Garrus asked.

"You'd be surprised to learn the Aeldari's sensors are not all that different from other species of your galaxy. The difference is the Aeldari's heightened senses and intuition. But to fully answer your question Turian, that is where this next device comes in."

The image on the table then changed to a device that looked like a Tetrahedron with glowing green lights and pulsed with energy, "This is a Phase Shifter. It's a common enough tool to easily modify but I required some assistance with procuring extra material for its enhancement. I have only been able to produce two, one is for my ship and another for reinforcements that should be arriving within the hour. These Phase Shifters require more power and thus only a ship drive with enough energy and mass will be able to utilize them. The Phase Shifters will allow our ships to phase into another plain of reality, making us not only more difficult to detect visually but will make the Aeldari's sensor sweeps useless as their scans pass right through us. However the field will be smaller than the Gloom Prism, we will need to run our ships in tight formation to remain undetected."

"Who are the reinforcements? More Omega loyalists?" Shepard asked.

"That would be us Commander." said a familiar voice over the comm.

The blue-lit figure of the Illusive Man appeared in a holograpic image sitting on a chair upon the center of the table. Seemingly lording over the assembly like a noble addressing a crowd. Shepard gave a bemused look at the apparition. Even if the Illusive Man was helping, he still wouldn't trust the man with this level of tech. The Commander then commented, "Surprised you finally decided to give more than just information this time."

"The situation warrants it. Besides, I do have ex-Alliance assets and officers with ships that can aid in this mission. Solvatas surprisingly forwarded the request to me herself." the blue eyed man explained.

The former Spectre looked to the Vymark incredulously, "You would trust him with resources and your technology?"

Solvatas shrugged, "I doubt Cerberus scientists will fair any better to understand my people's technology than anyone on your ship Shepard."

"Underestimating human ingenuity may prove to be your undoing in the future Vymark." The Illusive Man warned.

Solvatas waved the holographic man off, "Spare us your pompous prattle. Is your General ready for battle?"

The well dressed leader of Cerberus nodded, "General Petrovsky is bringing a dreadnought and several cruisers with a dozen escort vessels to aid in the mission. Last report said the Phase Shifter was operational, though he did say it was straining the systems of his ship."

The Vymark shook her head, her ocular eye lenses turning black as if they were closed, "Even with the improvements I provided to you for his vessel's drive core? Hopefully he can at least keep it functioning through the mission. It would be a terrible shame if it combusted part-way through this whole affair."

The Illusive Man narrowed his eyes at the Necron before she turned back to the holographic ships and waved her hand to show the final scenario, an overwhelming number of Aeldari forces with ships of incredible size arrayed against them, "In the event of significant enemy forces or dead gods forbid, an armada, my father will be certainly needed. The same is true if we are detected in the previous scenario. But if they truly do bring all that they can bear against us, I am not certain if even my father's fleet would be enough. He may simply decide that it is not worth the effort and leave us languishing in the void."

Shepard brought a thoughtful hand to his chin, "Leaving us defeated before we even start."

"Would be rather anti-climatic after everything we've gone through thus far." Gefren mused, crossing his arms.

Garrus crossed his arms, "You never exactly explained how you're going to convince your father to help us."

The Vymark's eyes slitted, "Never mind how I will do it. Just know that I will likely have to go through proxies such as Xamutet to reach out to him. It may take some negotiating but rest assured I will get him to assist us...one way or another. After all it is in his best interest as well to see the Collectors destroyed."

Shepard nodded, "Good enough for me, is that all?"

The Necron Lord nodded, "Yes these are the likely scenarios I expect us to encounter. Due to the unknown nature of the enemy's defenses and fortifications, the rest of the mission will need to be decided based on the data I can acquire."

The Commander shrugged, "I guess its all on you then. Considering your millennia of combat experience this should be simple."

Solvatas shook her head, "The Aeldari never make things simple. Their foresight creates unexpected elements in their plans that can be troublesome to predict."

"But at least we have a game plan." Shepard then turned to his team, "Alright, time to suit up and get your gear ready. We hit the Relay in the next hour."

Grunt pounded his fists together with a grin, "About time!"

The Normandy team then was dismissed, leaving the conference room, followed by the Necron assembly. However, Solvatas, Shepard, Miranda, and the Illusive Man remained.

"Well, this is it." Shepard said.

The Necron gave a light nod, "Indeed, this will be the first time we fight together against the common enemy. Hopefully you will perform your role adequately in the battle."

Miranda scowled, "You speak as if we aren't taking this seriously enough and I am getting real tired of that arrogant tone of yours."

Solvatas brought up a hand, "You misunderstand me Miss Lawson. You have never faced the Aeldari in battle before, therefore there is a high probability of casualties among your ranks. Not only that, we Necrontyr are not limited by biological frames. Thus saying that I hope you will perform adequately by my standards should be considered a level of praise on my part."

Shepard looked down at the floor and shook his head, "I don't think that explanation makes it better."

The Necron shrugged, "Well then I apologize if my words antagonized you. I suppose we should...'give it our best' I believe the human saying goes."

The Illusive man smirked, "Indeed. Hopefully this won't be the last battle we fight together against the common foe. Though we all have different agendas and motives for being here, what matters is that we are all willing to do whatever it takes for the sake of the galaxy as a whole."

Shepard turned to the Illusive Man, "Lovely sentiment, but we'll see if there's any truth to it in the end."

The holographic man raised his glass, "Good luck to all of you. I look forward to the results of this expedition and I hope to see you again Shepard."

Shepard gave a half-hearted quick salute as the hologram of the Illusive Man disappeared. Solvatas nodded toward Shepard before suddenly disappearing in a lightning flash of green light, likely returning to her ship.

The former Spectre then turned to Miranda who walked over to him and gave a nervous smile, "Are you ready?" the Commander asked her.

Her smile faded to a concerned look, "To be honest, I still feel unprepared. There's alot of possibilities on my mind right now and... it frightens me."

The Normandy XO closed her eyes and shook her head, shaking off the feelings of trepidation and anxiety. She looked to her commander with a renewed determination, "But I won't let that get in the way."

She took his hands into hers and drew close to him. Their foreheads met gently as Miranda closed her eyes. Shepard said coolly, "We can do this. No matter what happens, we're coming back. There's alot that we still have left to do. I have something for you, kind of whipped it up on the fly really. Jacob helped me with it."

The Commander withdrew his right hand and reached into his pocket. He pulled out something and put it in their joined hands. Miranda's expression changed to surprise as she drew back and looked at what the Commander had given her. It was a platinum ring, silver in coloration, it's metallic sheen glistening off the interior lights. Her opposite hand covered her mouth as she knew the implications. Then surprising Shepard she began to suddenly laugh still covering her mouth with the Commander smiling back, "What? You don't like it?"

The XO got a hold of herself, her hand withdrawing and revealing a wide smile with a chuckle, "No you stupid bastard, I love it. Only you would do this, right now, right before we go to possibly die in battle."

"And I can't imagine going with anyone else. So...what do you say?"

Miranda sighs, still maintaining her smile, "I suppose you leave me with no alternative." She then whispered in his ear with a sly grin, "Yes."

Then she kissed him on the lips as they embraced each other, indulging in the romantic moment. When they withdrew, she playfully worked her hand up his chest, her sly eyes looking into his, "And when we're done with this mission and get back, I believe we should take some time for ourselves to sort out a few things."

"Oh? Do remind me."

Miranda's face turned serious, "There is still the matter of my missing sister among other more serious things."

The woman then took her ring and slowly put it on her right hand's ring finger while Shepard put on his own, she continued, "Such as this decision we've now decided on. Not that I need a wedding or anything too extravagant. But I imagine it would only be proper if we have some kind of celebration for this occasion at some point."

"Along with trying to save the galaxy from total annihilation." Shepard added.

"Well as you keep reminding me, one thing at a time." She said, kissing him lovingly one more time.

When they were finished, they looked into each other's eyes where the Commander saw renewed determination in his XO. The Commander then asked, "Are you ready?"

Miranda took a breath and then nodded, "Yes."

"Then let's finish this."

The two of them then left the conference room together, ready to face what could be their final battle.

---

Omega Relay, fleet rally point, one hour later.

Within the next hour, all the forces had been gathered. They totaled up to about forty-eight vessels, mostly frigates and light cruisers by Alliance measures, with two of the largest ships being the Shuvat and General Petrovsky's ship. Apparently the Illusive Man had been saving it for the later war with the Reapers but the situation necessitated another large vessel to handle the Phase Shifter. Eight hundred meters in length, it was an Everest-class Alliance dreadnought named the SSV-Krakatoa. The Cerberus ship flew alongside the crescent-shaped Shuvat and the sight of the pair of giants washed over Shepard as he observed from the Normandy cockpit. The diminutive frigate was flying in formation along the other lighter escorts beside the Necron vessel. He was in his full combat suite, a dark black and red Alliance medium armor combat suit with his helmet on. Armed with his sniper and assault rifles, the former Spectre was ready once more to dive into the breach.

The Commander shook his head at what he was observing, "To think that Necron ship is considered an escort..."

Joker nervously chuckled, "Their main line ships have gotta be friggin huge! Would be crazy if we actually get to see one."

"Who knows, we just might if we live through this war long enough."

Miranda stepped up behind him, now fully setup in a light armored black and orange Cerberus assault suit with a light helmet featuring a visor with an orange tactical display. She saluted and reported, "Our teams are ready and standing by Commander!"

Shepard nodded as Solvatas' voice came over the ship's comm, "All vessels, hold position. The Shuvat shall now proceed. Once I am through, proceed into ready positions along the relay."

"Roger that!" Joker acknowledged.

Other acknowledgements from other ships in the fleet followed Joker's sound off, with General Petrovsky's thick Slavic accent adding over the radio, "Don't keep us waiting too long machine. Cerberus went to great lengths to procure this vessel for the war to come. Not for high risk experimental ventures."

"It will be worth the effort General, I assure you. By the day's end you will see the extermination of the Collector race. If all goes to plan, you may even see us hand the Aeldari a devastating defeat." The Necron lord replied.

"Or at worst we see the destruction of one of our greatest assets in the long war. The Illusive Man for some reason may seem to trust you, but I have yet to be convinced."

"Trust had nothing to do with our agreement General. But keep your suspicions if you wish. They matter little to me in the end. I am now maneuvering into jump position."

The Shuvat's engine suddenly flared and it pulled ahead of the fleet as the rest of the ship's slowed down. From the Normandy cockpit, Shepard could see the Necron ship head towards the Omega Relay's flank, its crimson energy starting to build in intensity.

Solvatas reported over the radio, "IFF codes accepted, the relay's systems are now beginning to link with my vessel. Jumping in thirty seconds."

The Shuvat began to turn to port, setting itself to fly beside the flank of the massive station. The Mass Relay's energy continued to build in intensity causing Shepard to squint at the sight. Joker's eyes widened as he looked at his holographic HUD, "Holy shit! Tali are you seeing these readings?!"

"We're going to need to calibrate the drive core to compensate or it may get torn apart by the relay's energy output!" Tali warned from engineering.

The pilot nodded, "Got it! We'll have to reroute and cut power to a few systems to handle the load!"

While Joker and Tali worked to prep for when it was the ship's turn to launch, Shepard could only watch as crimson lightning streaked across the Shuvat. It seemed to be attracted particularly to the Necron ship's engine section. Solvatas seemed unfazed by the effect, calmly reporting over the comm, "Reactor synchronization with the Relay has completed. Jumping in three...two...one."

At the countdown's conclusion a powerful burst of energy engulfed the Shuvat and suddenly exploded in a brilliant red flash of light that then streaked across the space in front of the fleet, leaving behind an orange contrail that went for kilometers. It passed the Omega Relay where the Shuvat was no where to be seen, but now all the fleet could do was wait. The mission to end the Collector threat, had now officially begun.

Author's notes: Apologies for the long wait for this chapter, life continues to make things complicated and my time has only recently freed up. Since we're close to the end anyway, I figure it's time to reduce the words per chapter to get out the last of this more quickly. On top of this I also plan another story and resume work on another project I have been meaning to do for a long time. Thank you again to those who have helped me to get to this point and for commenting on the work. I've learned alot doing this story over the past several years and I hope that it continues thanks to all of you. See you all again soon! For next time, the battle commences!