Hello all, I hope you enjoy.
His eyes snapped open, he was met with the metal-coloured ceiling of the executive officer's room. He blinked a couple of times as he adjusted to the situation, it was also then that he felt the body heat and pressure on his side. He turned his head and saw the raven-haired beauty looking up at him as her head rested on his shoulder "when was the last time you slept before last night?" she asked.
His answer was immediate "six months" he said calmly as his hand, which was wrapped around her started to move up and her back in a stroking fashion. She closed her eyes, hummed and snuggled closer to him. Her legs intertwined with his own and a free hand placed on his chest, her own breasts pressing against his side.
"I have to say, this was not something I expected to happen" she said though it seemed that it was more to herself then to him.
He hummed back at her "in my experience the real ones are never expected" he casually said.
"Is that what we are?" she asked back quickly "real?"
"Does it feel real?" he asked back.
"I don't know what real feels like, I've never had it before" she pulled back from his neck and looked into his eyes "but this feels a lot nicer than what I normally have" she admitted.
"Well, that's something at least" he said back before leaning in, she seemed surprised by the quick kiss but didn't fight him on it. She leaned in and closed her eyes, getting lost in the moment.
When he did pull back, she starred right into his eyes and almost got lost in them. That was when she moved, sitting up she quickly moved to straddle him. Their naked bodies pressing against each other, and she leaned in to kiss him again. Though unlike before, this time he pulled away "as much as I would love to continue this. We're out of time"
Miranda couldn't help but tilt her head at him for a moment, that was when they were interrupted "Captain, I apologise for the interruption put we are approaching Tuchanka" EDI said through the ships com. She closed her eyes and let out a frustrated sigh at the news and couldn't help but scowl at the smirk Clark had "Don't smirk. You loose out as well" she said before turning around and hopping off of him. Taking the bed sheets with her.
Clark couldn't help but stare at her form as she walk around the bed and started to pick up her clothing. Which of course she noticed and looked back at him with a smirk "see something you like, Captain?" she asked.
All he could do was smile back at her "very much Miss Lawson" he admitted.
"Yeah, well tough" she added before throwing his underwear at him. Which landed right on his face, covering his eyes "you have work to do" she said, picking up her own panties and bra before slowly placing them on.
"You know these aren't covering my eyes right, I can still enjoy the view" he added, still not moving from his spot on the bed. Greatly enjoying the view.
"...I know" she admitted "Bastard" the insult was empty and they both knew it. She started to walk over towards him and placed both her hands on her hips "I hope you're not planning on laying down in bed all day" she said.
Clark couldn't help but let out a brisk laugh "give me a break, I haven't slept months. Not counting the other day" he quickly added.
The smirk she held turned into a critical stare. Without a word she scooted onto the bed, ignoring his nakedness and again straddled him "and, how do you feel now?" for a moment Clark thought she was playing with him but then he saw the concerned look in her eyes.
He thought about it for a moment before responding "nearly there" he said placing his hands on her legs as they rested on either side of them "a few more hours and I'll be back to normal" he added "you don't need to worry about me" he reassured her.
"I can't help it" she said back quickly as she moved forward and placed both her hands on either side of his head "it must be these... feelings I now have, I already hate them. So inconvenient" she shrugged.
"Oh, I know" Clark quickly agreed with a shake of the head "such a pain" the two smiled at each other before she leaned down and kissed him, something he happily returned.
They paused for a moment before they started again, this time with more intensity and heat. His hands moved upwards and clasped around her rear, causing her to hum in pleasure. Wanting to returned the favour, she reached down in between them and clasped his manhood. Wanting to immediately start stroking but stopped herself, she pulled back from him. He looked at her intently while she herself felt her breath heightened "how much time do we have?" she asked quickly.
"Depends on how much of a rush we're in?" he said back quickly "fifteen minutes?" he guessed.
Her face contorted onto one of deep thought, her eye going back and forth before they focused on him again "Good enough" she said before leaning forward to kiss him. Stroking up as she did so.
Clark held a relaxed stance as he stood in the shuttle making their way down towards the planet. Standing and sitting around him were Mordin and Grunt who are each the reason why they needed to arrive at this waste land. But it wasn't just them, when they arrived in the system EDI told them that an Urdnot Wrex was leading a large clan close to where Mordins colleague was last heard from.
Knowing that name well enough, he went a spoke with both Garrus and Ashely and they agreed to join them as well. He asked Tali as well but she declined, saying that she was expecting some important message from the fleet. Which made this a five-man group riding down in the shuttle. He needed to prove to Wrex that they weren't there to course trouble and the best way to do that would be by introducing some old friends "Sir" the pilot called from the front of the ship "we're approaching the landing pad but they've radioed ahead to let us know that they'll be waiting with an armed escort" he told him.
"It's fine, we can work with that" he said back to the pilot.
"I still can't believe Wrex is really doing it" Ashely spoke up looking over to Garrus as they sat next to each other.
"I can. You know he was always talking about uniting his people when he was with us" he countered, leaning back in his seat and looking somewhat relaxed despite the turbulence that the harsh winds were giving them.
"I know" she nodded "I didn't think he'd actually do it though. It's Tuchanka, I thought he'd die the second he landed"
A growl came from the only Krogan present "This Wrex must be strong to come from the outside and take over a clan"
A light chuckle escaped from the Turian "strong is definitely a good word to describe Wrex. There's a good reason why Shepard pretty much always took him with the team on missions"
"Yes, Indeed. Very strong for Krogan" Mordin spoke as he stood up "but true strength of Urdnot is charisma. Able to convince others to join him, has plans for future but unlike others, a peaceful one. Future for Krogan bright under Urdnot leadership"
"we're coming in" Clark said as he took an extra step forward towards the door. The others quickly stood up and moved towards the door as well, the shuttle stopped moving forward and the feeling of falling overtook them for a moment as the ship went down into a bunker like hanger. Before they even left the ship, they could see the squad of Krogan that will act like guards through the wind "Let's go" the door opened and the group stepped outside.
"Halt Aliens" the one in the middle of the five soldiers said, he was slightly larger than the others and was the only one not wearing a helmet, his armour was white, and his head plate was a dark brown "I don't know what business you have with the clan leader and I don't care" he started stepping forward towards Clark as he did so.
Clark himself didn't even bat an eye at him but Grunt snarled at the intimidation tactic and was about to step forward but before he could, Garrus placed a hand on his arm. Sure, the Krogan could shrug him off but it seems that he's earned some respect from said Krogan. The squad leader looked to Grunt and let out a chuckle as he starred him "haha, what? does the runt want to protect his little human?" he asked.
Knowing that Grunt was definitely about to start a fight, something Clark couldn't allow. He acted first. He stepped forward and with that one step he was right in front of the Krogan. They starred at each other, but he wasn't just standing there, Clark's eyes changed colour to red and the aura he gave off screamed death. The leader of the squad starred back at him and the hesitation was immediate "Step aside" he said.
He wanted to hold his ground, that was easy to see but his survival instincts were screaming at him and they convinced him. The leader stepped to the side with his eyes facing downwards "let's go" he said to the rest.
They started to walk through the broken and crumbling corridors "how did you do that?" Ashley asked "I've never seen a Krogan so submissive before" she added.
"It's their instincts" he answered "while the Asari look at me and see the perfect mate, the Krogan look at me and at first they just see a human but when I get up close and personal they start to see a predator they're not going to escape"
"Understandable" Mordin spoke up "Asari and Krogan similar in many ways, strong instincts just one"
"Urdnot clan reports use a weak form of encryption" EDI's voice came from the com "I see references to a captured Salarian in the logs of the chief scout" she informed the group.
"Good, talk to scout then. Or chief. Both are acceptable" the scientist was quick to say.
"Also, I have been unable to access local medical records. I suggest asking the local clan leader for assistance regarding Grunts problem" the A.I added.
The group reached a large door that opened when they got close enough, the inside was exactly what Clark expected. He's been on Tuchunka once before and it was not much better than this, back then it was to see the worlds old ruins, but he guessed the argument could be made that everything was a ruin around here. This place certainly looked like it, the ceiling was caved in. Rubble was everywhere and it didn't look secure at all.
It seemed he wasn't the only one not impressed "this is the great Krogan homeworld? This is the land of Kredak, Shiagur and Veeoll?" Grunt asked out loud though it seemed that it was mainly to himself then others, it wasn't hard to miss the confused anger in his voice "this chuck of rock is barely worth standing on! Never thought I miss the tank"
"There he is" Garrus said to the group, nodding up to an elevated area that overlooked the rest of the bunker. Sitting on top of what seemed like a small crumbling throne was a large Krogan with a red head plate and white armour. He was listening to someone ranting at him with a board expression, not even trying to hide how board he was.
"Hhhmmm" Grunt... Well grunted as he starred at the clan leader "he seems strong" he mused as the group started to walk up.
"Oh yeah" Asley agreed "that guy can pack a punch"
Just before the group could walk towards the leader they were stopped by the guards "Halt! You must wait till the clan leader summons you. He is..." he looked back over his shoulder "in talks" he added.
Nodding at the guard, Clark simply looked past the two and starred at the leader. Listening in to their conversation "You know what tradition demands" the one standing in front of Wrex spoke "clan Urdnot must respond. Your reforms will not go unopposed. You risk appearing weak at a critical time"
Wrex didn't respond, he was about to but stopped when he looked over towards them "Garrus!" he shouted standing up and looking towards the group "Williams!" the guards seeing the reaction the leader had stepped aside and allowed the group to get past.
Clark, while he did walk forward, he did so slowly as to allow Garrus and Ashely to move ahead "my old teammates!" he smiled as he moved towards them and grabbed Garrus's hand giving it a shake before moving to Ashely "it's good to see you two again"
"You too Wrex" Garrus smiled at the Krogan "never thought you'd be able to pull all this off" he commented "damn good work"
"Hahaha" he laughed "it wouldn't have been possible without the Normandy. Virmire was a turning point for the Krogan, though not everyone was happy with it" the nod towards the other Krogan he was just talking to was very easy to see.
"Now I'm really glad I didn't shoot you" Ashely said crossing her arms and smirking.
Wrex simply laughed at her words "destroying Saren's Genophage cure freed us from his manipulation. I used that to spur the clans to unify under Urdnot"
The one standing next to him, who had a noticeable green headplate spoke up "You abandoned many traditions to get your way. Dangerous" he looked right at Clark as he spoke that last word. Wrex didn't notice and turned to him and without waiting a second, stepped forward and headbutted the other causing him to fall to the ground.
"Speak when spoken to, Uvenk. I'll drag your clan to glory whether it likes it or not" he spoke before turning back and walked over to his throne "so guys, what brings you all by. How did you even get here?" he asked.
"You remember Cerebrus?" Ashley asked as she and Garrus took the lead, Clark, Mordin and Grunt hung back.
Wrex let out a chuckle at the question "those human supremacists whose bases we busted a couple of times, hehehe. I remember, what about them?" he asked.
"Seems they're smarter than they let on" Garrus continued "they believe Shepards warning about the Reapers. We're part of a team they're putting together to find evidence of them" he looked over his shoulder to Clark "and they picked one hell of person to lead it" taken the offer to introduce himself Clark stepped forward.
Wrex narrowed his eyes and he starred at him "and who are you human?" he asked.
"Clark Kent" he said and we won't take up too much of your time "I was wondering if we could ask for some assistance"
"Assistance with what? We don't often allow aliens to do business on Tuchanka" he commented.
"I'm looking for a Salarian. He was captured by the blood pack and brought here" he said gesturing to Mordin who stepped forward.
Wrex eyed him for a moment before responding "my scout commander can direct you. He's probably near the perimeter running target practice. Do me a favour and not take too much of his time. I need a constant watch on the other clans" he told him.
Clark gave him a grateful nod before continuing "one more thing, I have Krogan with my team. He has some kind of sickness, I was wondering if there's a treatment for it?" he asked.
Wrex didn't respond immediately, he leaned forward on his trained and eyed Grunt closely. Grunt himself took a few steps forward and starred back at the clan leader "hhmm, where are you from welp?" he asked "was your clan destroyed before you can learn what is expected of you?"
"I have no clan" Grunt told leader while the other Krogan, Uvenk started to walk closer, examining Grunt himself "I was tank bred by the warlord Okeer. My line distilled from Kredak, Moro, Shiagur..." he listed and would have continued before Uvenk interrupted.
"You recite warlords, but you are the offspring of a syringe" he snarled looking down at Grunt. Something Clark didn't like at all and was about to step in when the older Krogan backed away himself.
"I am pure Krogan. You should be in awe"
Wrex simple hummed "Okeer is a very old name. A very hated name" he stood up and started to walk towards Grunt.
"He's dead" Grunt dismissed.
"Of course, he is. You're with them" he nodded towards Garrus and Ashley "How could he be alive?"
"Does the name Okeer mean much to you clan leader?" Clark asked still using the title.
"A vicious warlord responsible for many deaths. Who apparently toyed with genetics. A clone undertaking the rite?..." he mumbled that last bit to himself.
Though it was loud enough for the others to hear "you are considering it? Tank-bred allowed status as an adult? This is too far!"
Wrex ignored him and turned back to Clark "there's nothing wrong with this Krogan. He's simply becoming an adult"
Mordin was the first to speak up "Ah, puberty ritual. Common among species with hormone-driven reproductive urges"
Garrus on the other hand just sighed "can't we just take him to Omega and buy him a few dances?" he asked looking to Clark who himself just raised an eyebrow.
"I don't care what aliens do. Krogan undergo the rite of passage" Wrex told them.
Though that seemed to be all Uvenk could handle "Too far Wrex? Your clan may rule, but this thing is not a Krogan"
They all watched him leave "Idiot" was all Wrex said before turning back to the group, mainly Grunt "So Grunt? Do you wish to stand with Urdnot?" he asked.
Grunt looked to the ground, no doubt thinking hard about what was being said. Clark didn't interfere with the thought, he just let the Krogan think it through. Though when Grunt looked up at Clark, he then spoke "I... I do wish to be a part of this clan but I do not wish to leave the crew I am apart of" he turned back to Wrex "the battle master is strong" he gestured to Clark "stronger than any other, to work with him is an honour that I dare not forsake"
He tried not to show it, but a small smile came onto his face. Was that pride he was feeling? "I understand not wanting to abandon your own" Wrex said in an understanding tone "but be warned, to be clanless is to be an outcast. It's a bad reputation to have but it also gets worse, without being a part of a clan you will not be able to mate with the females. Something that is the duty of every male Krogan, if you go to long without attempting to mate, you'll be seen as a waste of space. Most likely killed" he told them.
Clark felt an eyebrow raise at that, he knew that the Krogan valued mating. Not surprising when you consider how rare birthing was to these guys "Come on Wrex" Garrus spoke up "I've seen you fight, you're strong. I can tell you that Grunt is strong too. Is there nothing you can do?" he asked.
Wrex looked at the Turian for moment before turning his eyes back to Grunt "The only thing I can do is give a temporally leave from the clan. And I do this only because you and Williams ask for it. You go through the rite to become Urdnot, then for a time you'll be allowed to leave on the ship you came on but you must return when called upon. Otherwise, you'll be cast out" he warned.
With a final look at Clark who this time nodded back at Grunt. The tank bred turned back to Wrex and nodded "Good boy. Speak with the Shaman. He's over on the second level. Give him a good show and he'll set you on the path" with that he turned to the guards. Knowing what was going to happen next, the group left the area giving the clan leader space to get back to his business.
When they left the... throne. The group huddled together, no doubt about to discuss what was to come next "little time to lose, must speak to head scout" Mordin was quick to say as he turned and looked towards the end of the bunker, no doubt trying to locate this scout.
"And the shaman" Grunt added looking to the stairs, there was no missing the eagerness in his voice.
"hhmm" Clark crossed his arms and placed a finger on his chin thinking about the best way to go about it "Ok" he turned to Mordin "We'll go see this Sharman first, but once we know what this rite entails we'll go see this scout and get the location for this Maelon" he said.
Mordin while not happy about having to wait a little longer nodded at him. He walked forward and led the group up the stairs, though when they did. The sounds of an argument filtered through the stone walls they found themselves in "You go beyond yourself, Gatatog Uvenk! The rites of Urdnot are dominant!"
He repressed a sigh as they reached the top of the stairs and saw Uvenk arguing with someone who Clark could only guess was this Shaman. He knew he wasn't the only one who was annoyed by the attitude of this one "How do we know it will challenge him? He's unnatural! The beasts of the Rite could ignore him like a lump of plastic" the group walked forward only stopping a few feet away from them.
"They know blood, no matter the womb. Your barking does not help your case" the Shaman said back just as hotly.
Grunt spoke up first before Clark could "I'll speak for myself!"
The Shaman immediately turned to him "this is the tank-bred? It is very lifelike. Smells correct as well. Your protests ring hollow, Uvenk"
This was when Clark felt it best to step forward "Urdnot Wrex has given Grunt permission to take the rite, to become that of Urdnot" he informed him.
The shaman let out a chuff "permission. Hmph. That is good enough, if lacking in spirit"
Uvenk stepped forward "If this must stand on ritual, then I invoke a denial! My krantt stands against him! He has no one!"
It was really getting hard not to punch this guy "My patience is tested, but Uvenk invokes correctly. Grunt, who is your Krantt? Your allies willing to kill and die on your behalf?" he asked the tank bred.
Grunt himself turned to glance at Clark before stepping back allowing him to speak "How is a candidate tested if he brings back up on his Rite of Passage?" he found himself asking first.
The Shaman was more than happy to answer him "not every Krogan can be the strongest warrior, but each must inspire his peers to battle at his side. If the ones who know you best can find nothing worthy in you, you should wander the wastes and die alone before you weaken my clan"
It made sense he supposed "the crew of the Normandy have fought besides him since he was released from the tank. We'll stand by him now" he said back to the Shaman.
"hhhmmm" the Shaman hummed "shipmates are not the same thing, but I grant you aliens your simple interpretation"
Though it seemed Uvenk wasn't done yet "Aliens don't know strength! my followers are true krogan. Everything about Grunt is a lie"
Ok, that was enough. Clark stepped forward and got right in Uvenk faces, he likes to think he's a calm person but this guy was really pushing it "your followers are going to be leaderless if you don't back off" he warned.
Rather than the guards outside, Uvenk didn't get intimidated. Maybe it was his seniority, ego or maybe it was just sheer stupidity but the Clan leader held his ground "you dare challenge me human?" he sneered that last word showing just how much he hated them being here. That was when he moved, Clark reached forward and seized the Krogan by the neck and lifted him off the ground "what!" Uvenk yelled surprised by the sudden attack and his inability to get out of it, his hands grasped around Clark's and his legs dangled as he tried to get out of the hold.
Clark was not having any of it, he turned and threw the clan leader out of an opening in the wall and heard him yell in anger he fell back towards the ground level. Everyone around them starred at Clark, some showing apprehension, some grinning, some even showing a little fear but all were interested in one way or another. He took a deep breath and once again faced the shaman "I apologies" he said calmly "would you still be able to allow Grunt to undergo this rite?" he asked.
The Shaman didn't speak at first, he took a step forward and looked at Clark closely. Eyeing him up and down closely, then he stepped back "my mind is unchanged, he'll be given the rite. But if you are who I think you are" he said reaching out with his and placing it on Clark's shoulder giving him a tight squeeze as he did so "then you are forbidden from entering with him" he said with a shake of the head and taking a step back.
"May I ask why?" Clark asked having a strong theory, but he wanted to make sure.
"You are too strong" the Shaman said back quickly "one would not be able to test there strength if they stand next to the god given flesh"
He sighed and rolled his eyes at being called a god but he let it go this time, Krogan where very hard to be convinced of something "one moment" he said before turning around and facing the group "is this ok with you?" he asked Grunt.
The young Krogan growled at the question "I would have preferred to have you with me battle master. But the Shaman does speak true, having you there would be an unfair advantage" he gave one final growl before banging his fists together "I will face this challenge alone, I am strong. I can handle it"
"No, you can't" this time it was Garrus who spoke up and the others turned to face him "I've seen a lot of Krogan shit in my time" he looked over to Clark "I think it's safe to say you have as well. If the Krogan say you need back up then you need back up" he took a step forward towards Grunt "I'll stand with you, we've been through a lot. I'll be happy to help"
"Me too" Ashely added stepping forward, surprising the others present "you watched my back on Horizen while I got the defences online, I'll return the favour now" she smiled and nodded at the Krogan.
For a moment, Clark felt real pride in his crew. He knew these guys where good people and their own people, he had very little to do with them and their choices but still, a small part of him couldn't help but feel it "it seems you won't need me there" he walked forward and placed a hand on his shoulder "make yourself proud" he said before turning to Mordin and nodding at the scientist.
The two left the group of three and moved back down the stairs "yes, now. Need to find scout" Mordin started.
"I suppose we can just start asking around" Clark guessed as he looked around at the many different Krogan.
"No need" Mordin said as he raised his arm and pointed to the far side of the bunker "Scouts, often have camouflage armour. Most likely chief scout"
Clark followed his finger and saw a white armoured Krogan working on some terminals "let's go" he said and the two walked over though the Krogan seemed less than impressed to see them.
"What do you want human? Wrex told me to be polite. He didn't say you were going to talk to me" despite his words there wasn't much annoyance in his voice.
"This won't take long. I'm looking for a Salarian. The Blood Pack captured him and he was last seen around here" the chief scout turned back to his terminal and started to type for a few moments.
"Yeah, I heard about that Salarian, poor bastard. If it's Blood Pack then Clan Weyrloc has him. I sent one of my scouts to check it out, but he never reported back. Guess they got him too" the scout nodded his head to the left, where a large truck was waiting "Clan leader told me to give you one of the trucks. Just follow the highway to Weyrloc's base, if you've got the quads to deal with him and the blood pack" he said to the two.
The ideas started to form in his head and he knew Mordin was thinking about it as well. Though he wanted to know more first "what do you know about the base Weyrloc are using?" he asked.
"Last I heard, the clan was holed up in an old hospital. I haven't seen it though. I've only seen clan Weyrloc from a distance. If I'd gotten closer, I'd have taken a shot. But if you do manage to get inside, bring a big gun. Weyrloc's base is crawling with Blood Pack" they were both told.
Clark glanced over his shoulder at Mordin "A hospital?" he asked the scientist who seemed just as confused "is there any chance that it's normal for big groups to hold in hospitals?" he said to the scout.
"hhhmmm" the scout said he gave another grunt no thinking about it "not really but any hospital on Tuchanka has to be built well enough to withstand a bunch of enraged Krogan" he started to explain "when an injury forces us to switch over to secondary organs, things get messy. Higher thought processes don't always transition properly. "Blood rage" they call it" Clark felt his head nod without him even meaning it, it's true that he's never really known how or why Krogan do that but it is good to know "Ok, thank you for the information. Let's head to that hospital" he looked over to Mordin who nodded. Though much to the scouts shock, they didn't head for the truck that was put aside for them and instead walked towards the bunkers central entrance "You know if you wanted death, I could have just shot you here" the scout called after him but the two didn't answer.
They walked in silence until they reached the open doors that rested at a large road going both into the bunker and out of it. Clark glanced to the side and had a look at the heavy doors that would lock the bunker down, they were rusted, cracked and it was clear they haven't been used in a while. For a moment he thought about whether they could close again but then he shook his head and turned to Mordin "are you ready?" he asked.
"Yes, yes" he stepped forward towards him "didn't take truck, have to assume method of travel. Thankfully motion sickness doesn't affect me"
Good thing he understood what Clark was about to do, it made sense to him. Mordin was a smart man and there were only so many ways they could get to where they needed to go "Ok, one hand around my waist and I'll do the same to you" he said taking one more step towards him. Mordin was more than happy to cooperate with him and wrapped an arm around his waist just shy of his chest. Clark wrapped his own right arm around the Slaraians back and clasped his had under his armpit. Soon the too slowly started to float into the sky.
It didn't take too long to reach their destination, a couple of minutes longer than Clark had predicted. It was hard to see what was what on Tuchanka because everything looked the same. In the end he just settled for looking for large groups that had more than just Krogan mixed in and that's what he found.
Yes there was Krogan but he could also see a lot of Vorcha and Verran as well. This would be the place, he landed on the roof of the hospital and looked down "Ok, this should be the place" he told Mordin.
"hhmm" Mordin said as he activated his Omni-tool and started scanning for something "No return single from Mealon's Omni-tool, you are certain?" he asked.
Clark didn't answer for a moment, his eyes were locked on the roof though. But to him, he was looking through it, seeing every level and every person in the ruined building. At the bottom of the building he could see the one they were looking for, a Salarian was sitting in the basement who had a lot of terminals in front of him. Who was working without trouble or delay, it would seem that he wasn't captured at all. Clark turned to face Mordin "Mordin, it would seem that you have been deceived" he started.
"Deceived? How so? Took every precaution, made sure all facts where correct" he tried to list the reasons how that couldn't be the case.
"They were right, Maelon is here. But he's not a prisoner. Looks like he's working on something" he told him.
"What? No. Can't be true. Nothing he could work on that he would need to be here" Mordin tried to deny it but he was spluttering "Need to see this for myself" he added as he started to walk towards the edge of the building's roof.
Clark nodded at him before moving over towards him, he lowered the two to the ground in front of the buildings main entrance. There were a handful of guards around the area but it seemed that they didn't really care about the door or at the very least thought that no-one could get past them. Which is why they were so far forwards ahead of the door itself.
When they hit the ground, he nodded towards Mordin who quickly started to hack the door controls. When they opened the two entered quietly as the door closed behind him "hhmm, repurposed Krogan hospital. Sturdy, built to withstand punishment" the scientist mused as the two quickly started to walk down a set of stairs. Though they saw something on the ground before they even made it halfway "That body. Human. Need to take a look" he said as he kneeled down next to the body and started to run a scan "Sores, tumours, ligatures showing restraint at wrists and ankles. Track marks for repeated injection sites. Test subject. Victim of experimentation" he started.
Clark himself walked forward and kneeled down next to the body, this was something he's seen a couple of times. Humans are very good test subjects as compared to every other race out there, they're the most genetically diverse. The peaks and valleys, mutations, adaptations. Humans had such large reactions to smaller stimuli. They were way beyond other life in the galaxy "You said Maelon was your assistant, correct?"
"Yes, worked very close with me and great help in my work" Mordin confirmed.
"So Maelon would have a very good understanding of the Genophage?" he asked again, already knowing the answer.
"Indeed, not as much as myself of course but more than most others..." he paused as he looked at Clark "No. Maelon understood the work, he knew the importance" he denied the accusation that Clark didn't even make.
He didn't want to push too hard, he liked Mordin but at the same time he can look at the wall and see Maelon working on something right now without any threat taking place. He would need to be a little more careful with this "What can you see that's been done to her?" he asked looking at the downed woman.
The scientist turned to look at him "do not know yourself? I find that very doubtful" he countered calmly.
He let loose a small shrug "if I had time I could find out, but I can only think of one thing that the Krogan would want looked into if they're doing this type of experimentation"
"Genophage" was all Mordin said.
"And I think it's safe to say that you know more than I do about that. So what can tell me about her?" he asked again.
This time Mordin didn't fight him on it "position of tumours suggests deliberate mutation of adrenal, pineal glands. Modifying hormone levels. Counterattack on glands hit by Genophage. Clever" he admitted.
"hhmm" he hummed, looking down at the woman one more time before rolling her onto her back and reaching forward, closing her eyes which where still wide open "if they're still using humans then, this cure they're working towards is still way off" he stood up and took a step back.
"Not necessarily" Mordin said standing up next to him switching off his Omni-tool "conceptually sound though. Genophage alters hormone levels. Could repair damage with hormonal counterattack" he added "come on, need to find Maelon" he turned and started to walk away.
Before Clark joined him, he looked down at the woman. She didn't have any ID on her so this would be the best he could do for her. His eyes lit up and a powerful but gentle light and the body of the woman started to turn to ashes, and nothing was left of her but a blackened shadow on the ground. He quickly moved and had to jog a little to catch up to Mordin who didn't stop.
Down one staircase and turning a corner later, he found him opening another large reinforced door. When it did open the two entered what he could assume was a lobby of some sort, it was a large area with some seating, a staircase going upwards that had another large door, there was a desk off to the side, at least he thought it was but it was difficult to tell when everything was made of concreate.
Before either of them could speak however, the door at the top of the stairs opened and three Krogan stepped out "I am the speaker for Clan Weyrloc, off-worlders. You have shed our blood. By rights, you should be dead already" the one in the middle said, wearing a bright silver armour. Different from the others behind him who wore a dark red "but Weyrloc..." he started.
"We didn't spill any Weyrloc blood" Clark said interrupting him.
The Krogan didn't look happy about someone interrupting him but he did stop his speech at least "Bah, do not lie to me human. You could not have gotten into our fortress without killing those standing guard" he tried to deny.
"Call them" Clark dared with a confident as he crossed his arms "they're still there, just bad guards.
"DO NOT MOCK THE STRENGTH OF OUR CL...!" was all he could yell before he found himself sliced in half vertically. The red light faded from Clark's eyes and the two in red that came in with the one he just killed only had time to stare at the body before they pulled their weapons on him. Mordin acted quickly, taking cover behind Clark to avoid the return fire while he pulled his pistol. While the other two Krogan fired at him, they were quick to fall just as the first had.
Normally, Clark would have knocked them out and left it there but seeing that woman made it clear just what these guys where like and how better off it would be for them to go disappear "come on" he said to Mordin and the two started to make their way up the stairs and deeper into the building.
They didn't even make it a few feet before Mordin spoke up again "Labs likely through there. Can smell antiseptic, hint of dead flesh" Clark could of course smell it as well but he thought it best not to speak up, he's spent years ignoring the smells around him. Opening another door they reached a corridor that held many open doors on either side and Mordin was correct, these where defiantly labs of some sort. Clark was about to carry on walking but stopped when a computer terminal came to life "active console. May contain useful data. One moment" he started to type and soon many different documents blurred to life on the screen "genetic sequences. Hormone mutagens still steady. Protein chains, live tissue, cloned tissue. Very thorough" he sounded just a little but impressed "standard treatment vectors. Avoiding scorched earth immunosuppressants to alter hormone levels. Good. Hate to see that"
"So, they're not developing a cure for the Genophage. They're modifying it" Clark said looking at the screens himself.
"Indeed, working within the confines of the already existing Genophage. Much more complex" Mordin agreed "must be done carefully, too many errors to count. Could cause total sterility. Malignant tumours. Could even reduce effectiveness. Worse than doing nothing. Had to keep Krogan population stable. One in one thousand. Perfect target, optimal growth, like gardening" that last part made it seem like he was trying to justify the Genophage to Clark.
"So, even though you were working on the Genophage you were trying to keep the population from falling further?" he asked, wanting to make sure he understood right.
"Yes" Mordin nodded "could have eradicated Krogan. Not difficult. Increased mutation to degrade genetic structure further. Chose not to. Rachni extinction tragic. Didn't want to repeat. All life precious. Universe demands diversity" god damn, if Clark wasn't carful he might start liking Mordin a little too much.
"That's a nice world few, it's one I share" Clark agreed "and you are right, all life deserves a chance, a second chance and maybe even a third but I don't think the Citadel would allow them that. There's too much bad blood, too much fear of the past"
"hhmm" Mordin reached up and scratched his chin "yes, would need something big in order to see past... well, the past. Reaper invasion perhaps"
Clark's eyebrows rose at the statement "you're really planning ahead" he commented as he turned around and started to walk away, Mordin following behind him, closing the terminal "I have to ask, you're very smart, been a part of a very important project. How do you go from that to a small clinic on Omega?" he asked as the two walked.
"Wanted to heal people. Good use of last decade. Something easy. No ethical concerns. Understand rationale for modified Genophage. Right choice. Still hard to sleep some nights" he sighed.
He didn't need Clark to tell him that he felt guilty, he was smart enough to know that.
They walked for another couple of minutes before another lab door was open on the side. The large body covered by a sheet was easy to notice but it was the data pad that Mordin zoned in on as he moved forward and started to read through it "dead Krogan. Female. Tumours indicate experimentation. No restraint marks. Volunteer" he tossed the data pad down and walked to the Krogans head "sterile Weyrloc female willing to risk procedures. Hoped for cure. Pointless. Pointless waste of life" he said angrily as he shook his head.
"It's never pointless" Clark commented as he stepped forward, standing on the opposite side of the body "she died for something she believed in, we should all be so lucky" his eyes left the female and he turned to Mordin "I'm surprised the sight can hit you so hard" he commented.
Mordin was quick to recoil at the statement "What? Why? Because of Genophage work? Irrelevant. No causative" he quickly moved around and the table and point his finger angrily at Clark "Never experimented on live Krogan. Never killed with medicine. Her death not my work. Only reaction to it. Goal was to stabilize population. Never wanted this. Can see it logically... but still unnecessary. Foolish waste of life. Hate to see it"
Clark slowly walked around the table and stopped in front of the scientist "how often did you actually see the fruits of your labour?" he asked.
His answer was quick "yearly recon missions. Water, tissue samples. Ensure no mistakes. Superiors offered to carry it on. Refused. Need to see it in person. Need to look. Need to see. Accept it as necessary. See small picture. Remind myself why I run clinic on Omega" as he spoke the picture started to become more and more clear. Mordin may have worked on the Genophage, he may even believe in it, he's seen people die because of it but Clark would say this is the first time he's seen someone die to try and cure it "rest. Young mother. Find your gods. Find someplace better"
"Krogan burial prayer" Clark commented as he heard "Surprised to hear it from you" he added.
"Genophage modification project altered millions of lives. Then saw results. Ego. Humility. Juxtaposition. Frailty of life. Size of universe. Explored religions after work completed. Different races. No answers. Many questions" was what he said to that.
But that just helped spell a better picture for him "sounds like you couldn't justify your work on your own so you went to religion hoping that could do it, ease the guilt. I understand, did it myself once" he told him.
"Modified Genophage project great in scope" Mordin was quick to counter "scientifically brilliant. But ethically difficult. Krogan reaction visceral, tragic. Not guilty, but responsible. Trained as doctor. Genophage affects fertility. Doesn't kill" he closed his eyes and let out a sigh "still caused this. Hard to see big picture behind pile of corpses"
That was enough, he didn't want to push Mordin too far. He just wanted him to ease past his own guilt. Clark didn't argue against the need for the Genophage, it made sense at the time and he could see that it was only option. But now that time has passed and things have changed, he didn't think it was his place to argue in favour or against the Genophage. But it seemed like a lot was going through Mordins head and he just wanted him to accept something that he clearly wanted to but was fighting against.
He walked forward and placed a hand on his shoulder "come on, let's go get your friend" he added turning around and making their way out of the lab. But much like before they only made it a minute or two before Clark stopped walking and looked to the unlocked door. He let out a quick sigh before walking forward and opening it, Mordin standing next to him as he did so.
The door opened and they saw a Krogan male sitting calmly in the corner, before either of them could speak. The Krogan did "you killed the Blood Pack guards"
Mordin was quick to whisper in his ear "not Blood Pack, not member of clan Weyrloc. Wrong clan markings"
Seems he wasn't quite enough as the Krogan heard him "I'm an Urdnot scout. Weyrloc guards got me. Brought me here"
Clark took a step forward "well, now you're free to go"
The scout shook his head "I can't. The Weyrloc did things to me. Drugs. Injections. Said I was sacrificing for the good of all Krogan. Experiments to cure Genophage. Everything's blurry. Hard to think. Have to stay"
Turning his head, Clark looked to Mordin "feel like helping a Krogan?" he asked.
"Of course" Mordin said as he turned on his Omni-tool "but feel as though it is unnecessary" he added.
"The skinny is right" the scout said "I'm not too sick to leave. I have to stay. They're curing the Genophage. They're going to make it all better! They have to keep doing the tests"
"Patient unstable" Mordin whispered, this time much quieter. Just under his breath, barely moving his lips, but Clarks ears had no trouble hearing the words "susceptible. Brainwashed" he added.
"Yeah, I got that" he said stepping forward towards the scout. When he stopped next to him, he turned to Mordin "Don't go anywhere, I'll be back in the second" he added as he reached down and grabbed the back of the Krogans neck and lifted him off the ground with ease.
"What!" the scout shouted "what is this!" he yelled.
"Me. Getting you home" he answered before he bent his knees and ran. All that was left for a few moments was a gust of wind. Clark slowly jogged through the hospital and out the door. Carrying the Krogan with him, he moved, the ground underneath his feet cracked and crunched under his power. As he moved, to him everything was frozen in place and he could really see this planet. It was a near perfect post apocalypse, no building was not a ruin and it wasn't hard to believe why the Krogan would be so eager to leave.
This it also showed Clark another reason why the Krogan are such an amazing species, he didn't think there would be any other species out there that would willingly stay on this planet when they could leave.
It didn't take long to leave the area and make it to the Urdnot base, entering the same way he and Mordin left. He stopped just in front of the desk where the chief scout was. He stopped moving and dropped the scout to the ground who it seemed he was only just able to stop himself from falling to the ground completely "here's your scout, I'll be back again soon" was all he said before he turned around and started to run again.
He had to admit, a part of him wanted to look for Grunt and the others but at the same time he knew he couldn't. That Sharman was right before, if he was meant to prove himself as strong then he couldn't be there with him. If Clark was there then it just wouldn't be fair, there wouldn't be any challenge.
It was a grand total of ten seconds of real time when he made it back to the same spot as he started. Mordin didn't move from the same spot as before, normally when he left someone like that they may be pacing, resting against a wall or something but no, he was just standing there "all done, excellent. Let's go" much like before the two continued to walk through the barren building.
They were about to open the door at the end of the hallway when EDI's voice chimed in "Captain, I'm detecting crates ahead that are holding unstable materials. A misplaced shot could cause a significant explosion" she said over the com to the two.
"Or a well-placed shit. Explosives useful. Burn through Krogan armour" Mordin was more than happy to chime in with.
"Thank you EDI" Clark said through the com before he opened the door. When it opened they met a large atrium like area, much like the room they thought to be the lobby of the building. It had a large hole in the ceiling that Clark thought would have held a glass window if it wasn't a ruin. They seemed to be on the second floor and a walkway bridge that separated both walkways on either side. Along with a lot of Blood Pack.
Mordin was quick to move forward and take cover while Clark stayed still and looked closer at those aliens. Vorcha, a group of three that were talking together on the other side of the large hall. They turned and saw him, they didn't speak for a moment, then they fired at him.
Clark moved to the side, his speed being used to avoid his clothes being ruined, he walked forward across the bridge and made his way towards them.
It didn't take long to clear the path to Maelon, as not many people got in his way. Before any of the Krogan or Blood Pact could even blink they were on the ground dead. They didn't feel pain, it was quick and he waited against the door that led to Maelon, waiting for Mordin to catch up to him.
As he waited he tried to think of the best way to go about this, he turned his head and he could see through the door and see Maelon working without any trouble, no forcing, no blackmail, just working because he wanted too. Mordin wouldn't like this and he wouldn't like that Clark already told him this but he didn't believe him. Maybe it would just be best for him to just be quite in the back and let him deal with it.
When Mordin finally did catch up he stopped in front of Clark expectantly "he's in there" he said with a nod aimed at the door.
Mordin was more than happy to move on ahead and opened the door. The room itself was a small, enclosed space, it almost reminded Clark of a morgue if it was made of stone. Maelon was standing in front of a large screen with Omni-tool out "Maelon. Alive. Unharmed" he said stepping forward towards his former student. When he got close enough he stopped, looked to the ground and sighed before turning to Clark "hopped you were wrong" he added.
He wished he was as well "For such a smart man, professor, you always had trouble seeing evidence that disagreed with you preconceptions" Maelon started before he turned around and starred daggers at Mordin "how long will it take you to admit that I'm here because I wish to be here?"
"Why?" Mordin said louder then he most likely meant too "you were present, whole team agreed! Project necessary!"
"How was I supposed to disagree with the great doctor Solus?! I was your student! I looked up to you!" he shouted as he pointed to Mordin.
"Experiments performed here. Live subjects! Prisoners! Torture and executions. Your doing!" he said back and while his voice was more controlled, it was still yelling.
"We've already got the blood of millions on our hands, doctor. If it takes a bit more to put things right, I can deal with that" he tried to explain but it was falling on death ears.
"Stop talking" Clark said this time "do you honestly think this type of practise is ever justified? On volunteers, maybe? But prisoners, slaves?" he asked as his own anger rose, thinking about the human woman they saw on the way in.
Maelon turned on Clark "we committed cultural genocide! Nothing I do will ever be justified! The experiments are monstrous... because I was taught to be a monster"
He almost laughed at that excuse, he really almost did "oh really?" he asked before turning to Mordin "did you ever perform experiments like this?" he asked.
Mordins only response was a shake of the head before turning to Maelon "never taught you this. Never!"
"So your hands are clean! What does that mater if the ground is stained with the blood of millions? You taught me a very important lesson" he said stepping forward "the ends justice the means. I will undo what we did, professor. The only way I know how"
"Ok" Clark nodded "so let's say you do, you cure the Genophage and achieve your life's goals, but now that the Krogan aren't dying and want to do some expanding. That will be on your head, right?" he asked.
"We justified this atrocity by saying the Krogan would cause havoc and war if their population recovered. But look at the galaxy! Batarian attacks in the traverse, Geth attacks on the Citadel. Is this a more peaceful universe? The assault on your Eden Prime might never have happened if we had let the Krogan recover. We'll never know"
"Yes, we do" he said back just as quickly "there is no way a Krogan population explosion would made anything better regarding Seran and the Geth or the Reapers"
Maelon it seemed was quick to bite back "an increased Krogan population would have forced the council to take steps, likely involving colony rights in the traverse" he started "the Turian fleets would be vigilant for any military activity in the area. They might have stopped the Geth at Eden Prime"
"Supposition. Impossible to be certain" Mordin added in.
"Professor, you know the facts. An increased threat always makes the military's grow stronger. Just look at what's happening to the galaxy now" he said turning towards Clark "all it took was one image of you. One sighting of the great Superman and the council are in a frenzy. The Batarians are already gearing up for a full-scale invasion and the rest aren't far behind. They're getting stronger because of their fear"
That was a topic he just couldn't be bothered with right now "Ok Mordin, he doesn't need rescuing. What's your call?" he asked.
His response was immediate "have to end this" he said as he starred at Maelon.
But it seemed that he wouldn't let this go so soon "You can't face the truth, can you?" he said pulling up a gun "can't admit that your brilliant mind led you to commit an atrocity!" he yelled.
Mordin didn't even flinch at the weapon and walked forward, Maelon didn't fire. Seems he didn't have it in him and Mordin took advantage punching him in the face as he staggered but through the holographic screen and into a tank. He pulled out his own weapon and aimed it at Maelon "unacceptable experiments. Unacceptable goals. Won't change. No choice. Have to kill you" he said as he moved the pistol under Maelons chin.
He was going to do at as well. Time slowed as he watched to the situation, he did want to stay out of it but at the same time he didn't want Mordin do to this. He thinks that he Has too because he has some misconception that this was his fault and so his responsibility. One half of a second had past when Clark moved forward and stopped right next to him, he reached out and gently grabbed Mordins wrist "wait" he said calmly.
Clark didn't grab his hand, so Mordin was still more then able to use his fingers to pull the trigger but it seemed his action caused him to pause at the least "Clark, I need to do this. I have to make it right" he said back all the while Maelon looked scared, shaking his head at the two.
"You're not a murder" Clark said next as he let his wrist go, letting him make the next choice.
Though it seemed that the word knocked him out of it. His eyes widened and he lowered his arm, the gun with it "no. Not a murderer. Thank you, Clark" he placed the pistol on his hip "finished Maelon. Get out. No Weyrloc left. Project over"
"I suggest sending a message to the STG" Clark started as they both starred at Maelon "this'll need to be covered up"
"Agreed" was all Mordin said.
"You heard him kid" Clark said as he nodded towards the door.
"Where am I supposed to go, professor?" he asked Mordin.
Who in return just shrugged "don't care. Try Omega. Can always use another clinic"
"The Krogan didn't deserve what we did to them, Professor. The Genophage needs to end" was what Maelon said before he started to walk away towards the exit.
"Not like this" Mordin echoed as he started to look over the Holoscreen. Though when a unique sound was heard followed by a wet slouching, he turned around just in time to see Maelon's vertically cut body fall to the ground in a pile of blood and guts.
He didn't say anything for a moment but he did turn to look at Clark who starred back at him with red eyes that turned to blue "I didn't want you to kill because you're right. You're not a murderer. But that didn't mean he didn't have to pay for the lives he stole" he explained.
He looked down to the ground and sighed before speaking "apologies, Clark. I should have listened to you at the start of all of this. Thank you for being here" he said ignoring what Clark just did to his old student.
"You're welcome" he said back as he walked forward towards Mordin "are you okay?" he asked.
"Experiments indicate how far he's fallen. Expected it from Krogan. Not one of mine"
"I've often found that people are a lot harder to predict then some would think" Clark added as he too started to look over the data on the screen.
"Yes. So many variables. Stress responses. Impossible to truly predict. Something to think about" he said before turning to look at Clark "Maelon's research. Only loose end. Could destroy it. Closure. Security. Still valuable, though" he added as he took a step back, allowing Clark to make the choice.
In his mind there was very little choice to make, research and data should never be destroyed unless they pose a clear danger to others "this data should never have been made, but it has. The only way for the lives of those that died to mean something is for something to come from it" he said walking forward, activating his Omni-tool and downloading the data.
"Worked for years to create modified Genophage. Should destroy this" Mordin said from behind him "but. Potential of Krogan remains. Always strong. Maybe in the future this can all mean something" he said just as fast.
"It's still a while away from being a cure. But who knows" Clark shrugged "no-one ever real knows what the future holds, do they?" with that he delated the local data and made sure everything was deleted expect for what he took. He turned around and looked at Mordin "let's head back to clan Urdnot, Maybe Grunt is done with his rite" he said as he started to walk out, Mordin behind him.
The journey back to clan Urdnot was much less scenic than the journey out, something he felt that Mordin appreciated. Though when they did make it back, it seemed that the place was much livelier than before. He didn't know why but he had a handful of different suspicions, but he didn't want to assume. The scouts didn't even notice them arrive and the two where more than happy to simply walk by them "come on" Clark said "let's go see the Sharman, maybe Grunt has passed this rite of theirs"
"Sound idea" Mordin agreed. The two walked through the base drawing many different looks as they did so, some from the fighters and some others from those who seemed curious "hhhmmm, must admit. Knew that Krogan would have tamest reaction to you, simply expected. But still expected meeting or summons by leader"
Clark simply gave him a shrug "I'm not complain" he commented and it was nice. If this was Thessia, Palaven, Sur'kesh or even Earth. He would have been swarmed by people in moments, this was very nice change of pace.
As the two walked up the stairs and reached the upper level where the Shaman was located. They started to hear a conversation "earning the honour of clan and name" they turned the corner and they could see the group of three standing in front of the Shaman who had his hands spread out wide. They all seemed ruffed up, Ashely had a slight limp and Garrus's Armor was scorched in some areas. Even Grunt was covered in cuts and bruises, but they all seemed ok "many survived, but it has been years since a thresher maw fell! Your names shall live on in glory" the Shaman continued.
Clark and Mordin glanced at each other in surprised 'thresher maw' Clark mouthed and the doctor simply shrugged, though he defiantly had questions of his own. Grunt himself got on his knees as the Shaman continued "Grunt., you are Urdnot. You may now own property, join the army and apply to serve under a battlemaster" he said.
"Kent is my battlemaster. He has no match" he was quick to say.
"Understood. Congratulations, Urdnot Grunt. Accept this token from Fortack. His weapons are the finest we have" the Shaman handed him a new weapon which he was quick to accept.
"I shall use it well" Grunt said and with a final nod he turned around to see Clark and Mordin waiting there "Captain, Doctor" he said moving forward brushing past Garrus and Ashely as he did so "you should have seen it!" he started sounding a lot younger then he meant to "a Thresher Maw showed up, it was great"
"Not..." Willliams hissed "the exact word I would use. Can't believe I'm saying this but I miss the Mako" she added.
'ok, it seems there's a story there' he thought to himself before he looked back to the group "how do you feel?" he asked.
"I feel great" Grunt smiled as he raised his arms "I feel whole, I feel unstoppable. Is this what it's like being you?" he added with a wide smile.
Clark gave him his own small smile "sure, why not" he added before looking to the others "come on, let's get you back to the Normandy. We'll have Chakwas take a look at you" he said turning around and making their way out of the bunker. No one stopped them.
OK everyone we shall leave it there. I know it's been a lot longer then usual but that's mainly because I took a two week break after I last updated this and I needed to two the other stories before I continued with this one, so let me know what you think and I'll see you all in the next chapter.
Next Story update: I honestly have no idea. Either Project Atlas or A New Guardian.