Quintessence Effect Collective Rebirth

by EvaShinobiKaiserKnight

Two Years have passed since the Paladins and the Normandy had suffered the tragedy of loss. A year since the Altean's have begun to return to the galaxy after the second battle of the Citadel. But the Reapers are not done as the Paladins and a revived John Shepard must gather allies to face this threat. This is their Rebirth into a new world of wonders as Heroes. NOW FORM VOLTRON!

9. Chapter 9 The Lights of Illium Part 2

Collective Rebirth

ESKK: A brand new chapter let's get started.

(Start The Illusive Man Cerberus)

The Illusive Man sat in his chair smoking a cigar once more observing information that came across his desk. Project Overlord was noting some issues that needed to be dealt with, pity he was hoping it might provide an answer to Voltron.

His contacts inside Wade's Cerberus branch had noted some concerns mainly with the man's own obsession with Voltron. The Robot Lions were a game changer, but he had noted that their, 'mystical variable,' was detrimental to the security of humanity. The Illusive Man agreed hence why he had shown interest in the Sincline, Lotors own Voltron.

He knew that there was a meteor that was the source of Voltrons power. After such intensive scans on both mechs The Illusive Man had his best devising a way to find said comet. If they can find it and acquire it, then Cerberus and by extension humanity will at long last have its own Voltron. But why stop with only one? IF they can harness this power, they can be looking at not one, not two, but a whole army of Voltrons.

Humanity will make its mark and carve its place in the galaxy. With a legion of Voltrons at their disposal nothing in the great universe would hope to stand against humanity not even the Reapers. And speak of the Devil because as his mind considered the benefits humanity would have with an army of Voltrons an alert popped up on his screen. It seems that one of the Cerberus branches had located the comet or at least a signal matching it.

If all goes well Cerberus will soon have the foundations to create their own Voltron. It was fortunate that the Robot Lions were travelling with Shepard's crew it gave him chances to get more in-depth scans of the lions. So, giving out the order to investigate the signal The Illusive Man waited knowing that soon enough Cerberus will be one step closer to acquiring their own Voltron.

(Meanwhile with John's Team Illium)

The Team was in the middle of a firefight after disembarking from the lift. Firing their guns Ashley and John were showing why they were amongst the best the Alliance had to offer. Thankfully with EDI on their side they had tactical support against the Eclipse Mercenaries. Firing their guns Miranda handled anything that needed a biotic on duty as they fired their way through the mercenaries.

The fight continued for a bit as the trio were working their hard to stop the Eclipse from getting to Oriana. Bullets flews, grenades went off, and biotics were active as it was clear John's unit was advancing upon the enemy. John was a father himself and he would be damned if he allowed any child to be placed in an abusive situation.

Ashley herself had sisters who she would die to protect if it came down to it. A sentiment she had in common with Miranda and thus was doing all she could to ensure Oriana's future. Sure, Miranda was Cerberus but if they were to work together common ground was needed.

Miranda on the other hand was focused on saving her sister. But she was also grateful for having Shepard agree to help her with this mission. As much of a perfectionist she was, Miranda knew she would not have made it this far on her own. So, using her Biotics she made extra sure that any foe in her way would not walk away from this.

When they eventually cleared the area of enemy soldiers Miranda sighed in relief seeing a clear shot to secure Oriana and her family. But then her thoughts were cut short when a new voice was heard on the Eclipse Mercenaries stolen communication link. "Niket has reached the terminal." The voice of who they assumed was Enyala said. "He'll switch the family over to our transport." She said much to the trios shock at this.

"Niket?" Miranda asked shocked at what she heard. "But… that can't be right." Miranda said shocked at what she just heard. Heading to the elevator lift Miranda tried to make sense of what was said. "Maybe the captain knows we're listening in and she's feeding us misinformation about Niket making a switch." Miranda said refusing to believe Niket stabbed them in the back. During this John imputed the floor they wanted while Miranda kept talking. "Or maybe it means something else. Niket wouldn't do that." Miranda said trying to assure herself that Niket wouldn't betray her.

John and Ashley both looked at Miranda and saw the situation was getting to her. The pair almost jumped when Miranda slammed her Omnitool covered hand into the panel. "Dammit why won't this thing go any faster?!" Miranda yelled clearly angry because there was the slim possibility that Niket did betray her.

"Hey calm down." Ashley said speaking to Miranda like she would her own sister. "We'll figure this out but losing your cool won't solve anything." Ashley said which seemed to help the Cerberus Agent regain her emotions.

"Did Niket know you took Oriana from your father?" John asked as he saw the lift rising through the tower to where Oriana's family was.

"No, he just found out about that recently." Miranda said which gave John a clue of what may have happened. "It was too personal too involved someone else." Miranda said defending her decision back then. "I never really thought about it, but maybe…" Miranda trailed off before ridding her mind of the line of thoughts. "No." She said focusing on what she knew was fact about her friend. "He'd have to understand why I did it. He knows what I went through." Miranda said but the look Ashley saw in Johns eyes showed what may have actually happened.

"Miranda are you absolutely sure Niket wouldn't turn on you?" Ashley asked as there was a few facts about this situation. The fact Niket didn't know about Oriana and what Miranda did would likely sway Niket to help their enemies get her.

"He could have turned on me when I ran away." Miranda said as Ashley knew why he didn't turn on her. "I'm sure my father tried to buy him off. If he didn't do it then, why would he do it now?" Miranda asked and thus Ashley gave only one answer that would show why.

"Because back then he didn't know you took your sister." Ashley said which got Miranda to think for a moment.

Not wanting to cause any discourse John stepped in on this. "You know him, Miranda. If you don't think he'd betray you, then I'm sure there's another explanation." John said but the conversation had her thinking.

"I don't know, damn it." Miranda said admitting that she didn't have the answers for this. "But I guess we'll find out soon enough. And then I'll have a word with this Captain Enyala." Miranda said as they watched the lift's panel as it showed their approach to dock 94.

(Meanwhile over with Kalvin's team)

After having to fight through a small group of Eclipse Mercenaries and Loki mechs the group arrived at the crime scene. But upon entering the scene an Asari hit the wall next to the door they came through catching them by surprise.

Looking to the where she came from, they saw a lone Asari merc with her gun out fearfully pointing it at someone in front of her. "Those were my best troops." The Asari said as she was trying to hold her ground.

The one who did it walked around the merc like a puma stalking its prey. All the while as she circled the criminal this older Asari was giving off an aura from her Biotics. "Tell me what I need to know, and I will be gone from here." She said showing why she was here. "Where did you send her?" The woman asked with a cold yet calm look in her eyes.

"You think I'd betray her?" The Asari Mercenary asked as she was trying to get close to the exit. "She would hurt me in ways you would not imagine." The Merc said making it clear she can't give out that information not if she wants to live to see the Matriarch stage.

"The name of the ship. Your life hangs in the balance, Lieutenant." The Older Asari said not afraid of this cornered mouse.

"You may kill me, but one of us will take you down, Justicar." The mercenary said but just as she was about to fire the Justicar used her Biotics and threw the mercenary out the window over to where the group was standing at.

The Justicar hovered down with her own Biotics and landed with a soft tap of her heels. She then began to make her way over to the down Asari Mercenary. Said Mercenary was trying to crawl away only for the Justicar to pin her down with her heels on her neck.

"What was the name of the ship she left on?" The Justicar asked glaring down at the downed mercenary.

"Go to hell." The Mercenary said glaring up at the Justicar.

The Justicar saw there would be no getting answers from this Mercenary. So as her code dictates this corrupted soul must die. However, before she could carry out the deed a hand grabbed her from behind getting her attention.

"This mercenary has had enough, she's beaten." Kalvin said as nearby Penny, Jacob, and Jack stood in shock while Allura had a look of worry over what Kalvin was doing.

Penny was ready to jump in and save Kalvin but instead the Justicar saw a familiar knife on Kalvin's person. "That knife… Jane Kogane." She said and then looked at Kalvin. "I know that Jane had passed on which means there is only two reasons you would have that knife… either you stole it… or your of her blood." The Woman said and in turn Kalvin was surprised by this.

"You knew my mom?" Kalvin asked as the Asari Justicar suspected this was indeed Jane's son.

"Our paths had crossed many years ago." She said inspecting Kalvin. "I know of you, Paladin of Voltron the halls of the Justicar speak whispers of your deeds." She said making it clear that she knew who the three Paladins were. "My name is Samara, a Servant of the Justicar Code. And you are Kalvin Shepard, a Paladin of Voltron and son of Jane Kogane." The Asari Justicar now known as Samara said introducing herself to the group. "My quarrel is with these Eclipse Sisters, but I see a group of well-armed figures before me three of whom are Paladins of Voltron." Samara said to the group standing before her.

"Then you know we can't just let you kill this Mercenary; she may be a crook, but she's already beaten." Kalvin said as Penny looked like she didn't want to fight this woman.

"Your mother had similar thoughts, as much as she loved to do battle, she was never one to strike down an unarmed or beaten opponent." Samara said as she looked slightly conflicted for a bit. "My code is very clear on what must be done here." She said but then Kalvin tried for something.

"Does your code allow you to let her live if she has information that can aid law enforcement in some way?" Kalvin asked as he'd rather that this Asari mercenary be turned over to the police then outright killed by this Justicar. "She might know things that can help people being terrorized by the Eclipse." Kalvin said and thus Samara considered this before she moved her foot from the Asari's neck.

"Your mother had often come up with similar roundabout methods of subverting my code without outright tarnishing it." Samara said and thus the Asari Merc growled to this. Before she could act Penny had her Biotics active and held the Asari in the air. Kalvin used the chance to cuff her and put something on her head that suppressed her Biotics.

"So… I take it you and my mom weren't exactly friends?" Kalvin asked worried that there might be a grudge here.

"At first perhaps." Samara said as she revealed they did have a history. "She and I crossed blades in battle when I viewed her as a corrupt individual but while my Biotics were powerful, she was skilled and cunning." Samara said revealing this information. "She could have easily killed me that day and instead… she chose to spare me viewing me as a worthy warrior." Samara said recalling that day a clash that would be both a confusing yet cherished memory for her. "My code demanded that I let her walk away with her life afterwards in which she offered to fight again in the future." Samara said showing that for Jane Samara was a worthy opponent.

"Wait so that kids mom faced a Justicar and won?!" Jack asked shocked at what she heard.

"I never knew." Kalvin said as there was a lot of things, he didn't know about his mother popping up.

"I supposed she felt it wasn't relevant for you." Samara said before getting back to subject of this sudden meeting. "Now how may I be of assistance to you?" Samara asked looking to the group. At the same time Jacob was seen forcing the Asari Mercenary to her feet and preparing to take her away.

"I'm preparing for a mission with suicidal odd's, and I need the best for this." Kalvin said as he looked at Samara. "And you were noted to being one of the best." Kalvin added hoping that Samara will agree to help with this suicide mission if only out of respect for his mother, Jane Kogane.

"I see the truth of what you say, and it humbles me." Samara began to say and from her tone alone Kalvin knew a but was coming. "But I seek an incredibly dangerous fugitive." Samara said and thus Kalvin gave her his undivided attention. "I cornered her here, but the Eclipse Sisters smuggled her off world. I must find the name of the ship she left on before the trail goes cold." Samara said when a new voice cut in getting the groups attention.

"I wish you were willing to go with the Paladins, Justicar." Anaya said as she made herself known. "I've been ordered to take you into custody if you won't leave." Anaya said already making peace with the Goddess.

"You risk a great deal by following your orders, Detective." Samara said knowing Anaya was scared of her and for good reason too. "Fortunately, I will not have to resist." Samara said causing Anaya to almost let loose a sigh of relief. "My code obligates me to cooperate with you for one day. After that, I must return to my investigation." Samara said but Anaya saw a problem with that.

"I won't be able to release you that soon." Anaya said and already Samara had a counter.

"You won't be able to stop me." Samara said which meant that by this time tomorrow Anaya and several other police officers may end up dying.

"There must be some way we can all get what we need without resorting to such extremes." Allura said playing the diplomate in this situation.

"I see a way. While I am in custody, you find the name of that ship." Samara said as she looked to Kalvin. "Do that and I will join you. Then the code will be satisfied." Samara said before she had one last thing to add. "If you are anything like your mother… I suspect the obstacles will be of no issue." Samara said recalling how Jane had always been one to rise to the challenge. Samara considered Jane to be a good friend almost like that of a sister. It was also because of another thing they had in common that Samara could not ask Jane to aid her with hunting this particular fugitive.

"Alright do you have any leads we can follow?" Kalvin asked seeing no other choice if they were to gain Samara's aid against the Collectors.

"The Volus merchant, Pitne For, is tied to this. Eclipse Mercs are preparing to kill him." Samara said as she walked passed the group before turning to face them. "Get the truth out of him, he may know a way to the Eclipses base." She said and thus the group had a lead to follow.

Anaya then walked over to Samara to carry out her orders. "Well, I've got to get back to my station. And I guess I have to take you with me." Anaya said with a slight nervous tone in her voice.

Samara nodded before she looked over to Kalvin. "Thank you, Kalvin." Samara said before she and Anaya took her leave so the team can begin their hunt for that ships name the Eclipse Mercenaries had.

"Alright… I guess we need to interrogate a Volus." Penny said as she had a few ways to do it. Considering the Volus from earlier never mentioned this it was clear that they had a lot to chat about soon.

"Let's get moving." Jacob said and thus Kalvin agreed before he lead the team to find Volus they met earlier.

(Later over with Sven's Team)

The group had just made it through the second floor and after clearing out the floor they were already searching for the other workers. "Don't get why we need to find these poor sods?" Zaed asked as he helped search for them.

"Zis people ver caught in zi crossfire. Zey do not deserve to die." Sven said as he helped with the search.

"If they weren't strong enough to get out on their own, they leave them." Grunt said as he wasn't putting effort in the search.

"Sven, I think I found something." Tali said as they arrived at a lock door.

"Good, Kasumi unlock it." Sven ordered and in turn Kasumi got to work.

"Understood." Kasumi said before she then began hacking the doors lock to open it.

Once she got it open the door swished open and from there, they saw who was on the other side. When it opened, they saw inside was a group of Salarians as the shock of it caused reflexes to act out pulling guns on them. The Salarians panicked and raised their hands in surrender.

"Please don't kill us, we'll go we'll go!" The leading Salarian said fearing for the worst.

"Wait guys it's the workers!" Hector called out while calling off his Bayard so he wouldn't end up shooting the Salarian workers.

"That was too close." Tali said shocked how they almost gunned down innocent civilians.

Thankfully, his friend noticed something about them. "Hey look... they're not Eclipse." The second Salarian said as he stepped up. "Your here to help us, right?" He asked and in turn the team lowered their weapons.

"Zhat iz vone reason ve are here." Sven said assuring these Salarians that everything was ok now. "Come out it iz save enough." Sven said and in turn they began to step out.

"Thank you we are in your debt." The Salarian leader said with a small bow to Sven.

"Who are you've two anyvay?" Sven question them as the first one answer saying, "I'm Shelum, and this is Daroth. We just work here. Not mercenary at all."

"Maybe you can help us. We're looking for someone. Not a mercenary too, but he may be doing some solo stuff," Hector asked as one of the Salarians spoken up saying, "Well, whoever sealed us in here..."

"When he found us, I thought we were dead. But he just closed the door and locked us in," Shelum said as Sven said, "Lock you in? An assassin vas he trying to keep you safe?"

"Assassin?" Daroth said sounding very scared of this as the first one said, "Here for Nassana, I bet. She's got it coming. You treat people like this; it always comes back to bite you in the ass."

"I'm guessing vhis Nassana's not your favorite person?" Sven asked as the Daroth said, "She's a... hard woman to work for."

"That's an understatement! She works us long hours. No overtime. And this is what you get in payment," Shelum said as the other guy said, "She's unpleasant, you say the least."

"IF she was working that much, couldn't you just quit or something?" Hector asked as Shelum said to him, "We would if we could."

"Vhat's stopping you?" Sven asked as Shelum answer him saying, "Our contract. We're stuck until the job's done. Quitting for any reason can be hazardous to your Health."

"We hear that anyone who leaves early tends to disappear. Probably just a rumor," Daroth said as the other guy finish saying, "But who wants to find out for sure?"

"Did you see who locked you in, or where he might have left too?" Hector asked with Shelum said to them, "He's no Salarian, I can tell you that. But I've no idea where he went. sorry."

"If he's after Nassana, he'll be heading to the upper levels," the Daroth said as Sven asked them, "How many vorkers vere in zi tower? Are vere more vorkers like you?"

"Not alive. We were lucky," the Shelum said with Daroth said to the group, "Well, some got out before the dogs were sent in. Maybe a few are hiding somewhere."

"Vell, we need to get to Nassana's henhouse. Vhat's zi quickest vay to it?" Sven asked with Shelum answer saying, "Cargo elevator is the only way up right now."

"They're still working up top. Watch your step; some of the walls aren't in, and it's a long way down," Daroth said with Hector started whining a bit as he said, "Ah, why did you have to say that. I don't do well with heights."

"You've don't do vell with flying either," Sven said to Hector, as the Yellow paladin look to his friend and said, "Hey I'm getting better while flying."

"Well, it's a bit cold up there too just to give you the warning. I hate working up there," Shelum said as he give the warning with Sven said to them, "Zank you. You two leave now. It iz safer down at zi lowers floorz."

"I was just thinking the same thing. Let's go everybody," Daroth said as he, Shelum, and any other Salarian that were trap in the room were walking out with Shelum walk up to Sven and said to him, "Thank you. And tell your assassin to aim for her head, cause she doesn't have a heart!"

"I'll be sure to tell him then," Sven said as Daroth call out to his friend saying, "Get moving."

And with that the team got moving once more knowing full well that they had to get to Thane fast. Though Sven was hoping they can stop an assassination before it happens. Even if this woman was guilty, she deserved a fair trial in a court of law not to be summery executed like a deceased animal.

(Back with John Shepard's Team)

John, Miranda, and Ashley stepped out of the elevator life to the docks Niket was supposed to be taking Oriana and her family. With their goal within reach the team got moving to secure Oriana. But nothing could prepare Miranda for what she had arrived upon. There he was, Niket and with him was an Asari in the uniform of the Eclipse Mercenaries. From the look of things, he was talking to another Asari possible a dock worker of some kind.

"Listen to me I got authorization to change their booking." Niket said trying to convince the Asari dock worker to take his side.

"I'm sorry sir we're under security lockdown." She began before lowering her data pad with the manifest on it. "Until the situation in the cargo terminal is resolved, no passengers can be rebooked." The Asari worker said calmly that carried a slight hint of annoyance.

"This isn't work my time, Niket." The Asari Mercenary, Enyala said while sitting on a box clearly annoyed. "I get paid regardless of how the girl gets there." She said glaring at Niket who remained unaware that the Normandy Team had arrived.

"No, I was told that I could handle this my way." Niket said defensively against the Mercenary. "We're not traumatizing the family anymore that we." Niket began but was cut off when the doors opened and from it John, Ashley, and Miranda walked out.

Niket squinted his eyes a bit before they widened in recognition. "Miri." Niket said surprised to find Miranda here.

"This should be fun." Enyala said as she got up and drew her rifle. This caused the Normandy's team to pull out their guns turning this into a stand-off. Niket raised his hands peacefully, but the Asari worker tried to run for it. Seeing this Enyala shot her dead with her gun.

"Niket, you sold me out." Miranda said glaring at Niket clearly angry about the betrayal.

"How do you want to handle this, Miranda?" John asked ready to open fire on the traitor.

"Why, Niket?" Miranda asked clearly to upset about the betrayal from her tone of voice alone. "You were my friend. You helped me get away from my father.

"Yes! Because you wanted to leave." Niket said explaining why he helped Miranda all those years ago. "That was your choice." He finished but then got to why he turned on Miranda. "But if I'd known that you'd stolen a baby." He began but Miranda cut him off with spite.

"I didn't steal her I rescued her!" Miranda yelled glaring at Niket.

"From a life of wealth and happiness?" Niket asked almost accusingly to Miranda. "You weren't saving her you were getting back at your father!" Niket accused Miranda as Ashley looked ready to pull the trigger.

"How did Miranda's father turn you?" John asked glaring at Niket.

"Better be a damned good reason." Ashley added ready to shoot Niket for this betrayal.

"They told me you kidnapped your baby sister all those years ago." Niket said revealing how they hit him. "They said I could help get her back peacefully. No trauma to the family." Niket said showing that he was guilt tripped into doing this. "I told them you'd never do that. That they can go to hell." Niket said revealing that he thought he was doing the right thing. "Then you finally told me what you'd done. I called them back that night." Niket said clearly showing that he was a good man that had been manipulated.

"Why didn't you call me, Niket?!" Miranda demanded as she glared at Niket for his betrayal. "We've been through a lot; you could have at least let me explain." Miranda added her voice cracking a second showing this betrayal had hit close to home.

"I deserved to know you stolen your sister, Miri." Niket said as he also felt betrayed for his role in this. "I deserved to know you were with Cerberus. But I had to hear it from your father first." Niket said showing that Miranda keeping him in the dark was what made him do this.

"How much is Miranda's father paying you?" Ashley asked clearly hating traitors with a passion. After all she nearly decked Joker and Dr. Chakwas when she found them working with Cerberus on the new Normandy.

"A great deal." Niket said his voice showing how he hated to accept that money.

"Dammit Niket!" Miranda snapped unhappy and hurting all the same. "You were the only one I trusted from that life." Miranda said ready to take Niket down here and now.

"He knew you felt that way. That's why he bought me." Niket admitted also hurting from this entire situation.

"So, you just took his money." Miranda said unimpressed with Niket accepting the credits.

"Don't get holy with me, Miri." Niket countered with a cold tone. "You took his money for years." Niket countered before John stepped in.

"Whether or not you agreed with Miranda, Oriana has been with her family for years now." John said making it clear that what Niket was doing was going to harm her in more ways than he can imagine.

"Her father can still give her a better life." Niket said but Miranda was not having it.

"You don't know what my father wants for her." Miranda snapped showing she was not about to let her father take Oriana.

"I know I've been poor, Miri. I didn't much care for it." Niket said but Miranda had a counter argument to that.

"He wants to take a girl from the only family she's ever known." Miranda said telling Niket to look at the truth. "Doesn't that tell you what he really is?" Miranda asked hoping that Niket will actually think before she has to pull the damned trigger on him.

"I knew Eclipse was willing to get their hands dirty." John began while glaring at the merc. "But kidnapping a kid?" John began but Enyala cut him off.

"I'm not stealing her, I'm rescuing her." Enyala said but then Ashley scoffed.

"Yeah, and I'm the mother of mankind Eve, its call bullshit." Ashley snapped her voice deep with contempt for this Asari for her actions.

Enyala rolled her eyes and then turned her attention to Niket. "Come on, Niket. Let's finish this bitch and her two friends off and get out of here." Anyala said wanting to get paid soon.

"Take your best shot," Miranda said as she was ready to throw down, as Enyala counter with, "I was just waiting for you to finish getting dressed. Or does Cerberus really let you whore around in that outfit?"

"If you're working for Miranda's father, that mean he knows about Oriana. We need to find a new solution," John said as he knew even if they shot their way out and kill everyone, they will keep coming after Miranda's sister, but it seem Miranda's word gotten through to Niket as he said, "Miranda's father has no information about Oriana."

Miranda lower her gun a bit after hearing that as Niket said, "I knew you had spy programs in your father's system, Miri, so I kept it private. I'm the only one who knows."

"Which means that you're the only loose end. This isn't how I wanted it to end, Niket. I'm going to miss you," Miranda said as she raise her gun again and shoot Niket until John grab her arm and lift it up stopping her from shooting as he said, "Miranda, wait! You don't want to do this."

"This has to end here Shepard," Miranda said as she pulls away from his grip and went on saying, "My father will keep trying to find Oriana."

"Maybe Niket can help... talk to your father. Just say you got here first," John suggested to them as Niket was a bit hesitant but knew if he agrees or not most likely he going to get shot, as Niket quickly said, "I'll... I'll tell him you hid her. That I don't know where she is."

"I never want to see you again, Nik-

Before Miranda could finish of what she was saying, there was a gun shot and Niket dropped dead with Enyala being the one that did it as she said to her, "Done. Now if you don't mind. I have a shipment to deliver."

Miranda suddenly snapped seeing her oldest friend to be killed in front of her, as she activated her Biotic and surprise the merc captain as Miranda said to her, "You'll die for that bitch!"

After that Miranda send her across the room hard, but Asari use her own Biotic to protect her from the impact and recover as she soon yells out to all of her men, "Tear the apart!"

Soon enough shots were fired, and bullet flew through the air as Shepard's team took cover and return fire at the Eclipse, as John was shooting the low grade mercs giving Ashley and Miranda cover as they advance through the area as they took down every merc they come across with ease, with Ashley pulls out a knife and throw it at one of enemies that was next to Miranda, killing them on the spot as Miranda was surprised by this as she turn to Ashley and said, "Interesting choice in weapons."

"Yeah, I picked up a thing or two from Kalvin when he was living with me and my family," Ashley said as she got up and fire a few shots taking down a few more mercs as Miranda said, "Not bad, wish I had something like that with my family."

"Well if you weren't apart of Cerberus, I would have invited you to a family dinner to show you how one is like," Ashley said as Miranda could not help but laugh a bit before they reached Enyala as she saw Miranda in front of her as she use her biotic to lock her into place to shoot her, but Ashley surprise the Merc captain as she pop up behind some creates and fire rounds at her, hitting her and disrupted her power and knock her shields out, as at that moment when Miranda was free from the Biotic lock, she took aim and finish the Asari off as she gun her down while the merc captain cry out before dropping dead.

After that, the team regroup with Miranda said, "There could be more Eclipse mercs near the shuttle. I want to make sure Oriana and her family get on safely."

"Don't worry, we'll make sure your sister and her family make it out safe," John said as they approached the doors with John put in a code to get it open as Miranda was going through the feeling of betrayal and guilt as she said, "I can't believe Niket sold me out. I didn't even see it coming."

"Well even with your father upgrades and Gene treatment, you're just human like us," Ashley said as John nodded and said, "She right, nothing can be perfect, even with friends or family."

"But I let it get personal... And I screwed up," Miranda said she turn to him and asked, "Why didn't you let me kill him? I could have handled that. But watching him get gunned down by that Asari bitch."

"You still cared for him, even if he betrayed you," John said as he knew those who are close with people who did something unforgiveable, it can be hard to really hate them as well as Miranda said, "You're right. And my father knew it. He used that against me. It's always been like this. My father gave me anything I ever wanted, but there was always a hook, an angle for his long-term plan. I throw away everything he ever gave me when I ran. expect Niket. Weakness on my part."

"I would call it a weakness, just a strength that father of yours turn against you, as you heard what he said before he got shot, he wasn't thinking straight and your father took advantage of it," Ashley said as Miranda look to her and said, "like how you thought Cerberus brought Shepard back to life and have him loyal to us?"

"I have thought of that before... until Kalvin told me everything, as if he believe his father wasn't working for Cerberus, Then I would believe it as well," Ashley said with Miranda said to her, "You really trust Kalvin that well."

"Trust him enough to make the right choices," Ashley said as Miranda could not help but smile a bit and said, "I wish I meet him myself sooner. As now I wonder what that would be like."

"A handful when he goes off doing his Paladin duty," Ashley said as Miranda nodded a bit as to her that sounded accurately as she said, "Maybe I might need to make new friend then."

"Speaking of which. Any other old friends your father might use against you?" John question as Miranda shake her head to this and said, "No. I cut ties with everyone else. Anyone I'm close to now works for Cerberus... or you two. My father's powerful, but he won't cross the illusive man."

"You can't toss aside everything you care about just to be safe," John said as Miranda said to him, "It's okay Shepard. My father hurt me, but he didn't break me. As much as he tried to turn me into exactly what he wanted... I'm my own person."

"You still have Oriana." John said taking comfort that Oriana was safe.

"But..." Miranda paused as she thought about it. "Yes. Your right I still have something." Miranda said seeing what John meant. "Thank you." Miranda finished happy to have someone like Shepard to back her up. It's a pity really if John had not been so devoted to Ashley Miranda would have tried her hand at a romance with him. Then again Kalvin may have been a small problem with his clear dislike for Cerberus and anything involved with that organization.

This mission can be chalked up as a success, but they also needed to be sure she was safe. So, one final scout of the area was needed just to be sure that there were, no other Eclipse Agents ready to pounce.

(Meanwhile over with Kalvin's team)

Kalvin led the team through the halls to try locating the data Samara needed. Being on a short timetable no one wanted to waste time on this. After they had spoken to the Volus Samara had pointed them towards from earlier they managed to acquire the access key into the Eclipse base and hopefully to where the cargo manifest was for Samara's target.

Jack, Jacob, and Penny were providing cover with their Biotics or in the case of Jack setting up to charge in like a Biotic tactical bomb. Fighting their way through a large room of Eclipse Mercenaries, mostly Asari by the looks of it, the Team proceeded through their foes. Guns blasting and Bayards active when they were needed.

Penny meanwhile was using her Biotics as she blasted back a few Mercenaries while trying to keep the canisters of red sand from getting close to them. It was a double-edged sword, according to EDI's scans the substance while does boost a person's biotics will also cause severe tissue damage. The group opted to avoid them when able, and in the case of Jack avoid it entirely. She was a powerful biotic as is, heaven forbid if she got that sort of power boost.

Penny fired off her sub-machine gun when she cried out in pain when a bullet grazed her. She hid next to Jack who saw what happened. "Kid use your fucking Biotics to shield yourself!" Jack scolded as she glared at Penny for not using her Biotics in this fight.

"I know!" Penny snapped back and got ready to get back up. When they were about to attack again, they were shot at and forced to get back into cover.

"Shit!" Jack cursed when the bullets nearly hit them.

"Dammit we're pinned down!" Penny cursed as Jacob, Allura, Lotarius, and Kalvin weren't close enough to back them up.

"Not for long! I got an idea!" Jack called out as she looked to Penny. "Ever used your Biotics for an improve battering ram?" Jack asked as she looked to Penny.

"I tried but never could get it right!" Penny said as using Biotics for a battering ram was not as easy as it seemed.

"Let me show you a trick I learned." Jack said as she smirked down at the nerd.

Nearby a group of Asari Mercenaries for the Eclipse were firing down at the area Penny and Jack hid behind. As they fired their guns the cover soon blasted at them with the fury of Biotics. The Asari pair cried out in shock before they were hit and sent flying across the room into the wall. The reason for this was Penny and Jack as the two laughed at what they did.

"Nice going Nerd." Jack said offering Penny a fist for a bump.

"Same to you psycho." Penny responded and then returned the gesture.

Nearby Lotarius roared and charged with his Krogan Rage with Allura covering him. Her Bayard was active as she cracked the blade whip at any nearby enemies. This was then followed up by Kalvin flanking the enemy and taking them out with his dagger. The battle was quickly dealt with, but it became harder the more that the red chemicals were exposed.

Once the room was clear the team proceeded on with their objective through the Eclipse Base. Guns armed and clearing the halls of any surprises as they continued on through. But as they made their way through Penny stopped when she heard something behind a nearby door. "Guys we got movement." Penny warned them and thus they stopped.

"Let's check it out." Kalvin said as he signaled his unit to begin approaching the sight.

Entering the room, the group looked around for any sign of trouble or at the very least any data on the ship Samara was looking for. Moving carefully, they could not take the risk of this being a trap room without an escape plan secured. However seemingly unaware to the team a lone Asari was hiding under the desk near her submachine gun which was within her reach. If she were fast enough, she could grab and shoot but this Asari knew that she was outnumbered by the people here, more so since they have a Krogan with them.

When it seems that the room was empty the group got ready to leave. As they left however the sound of guns clicking was heard and in turn Kalvin took out his side arm and pointed it at the source in the room. "Wait! Stop! I didn't fire my weapon once." The Asari said as she rose up from her hiding spot revealing her Eclipse uniform to them. "I pretended too because the other Eclipse sisters were watching but I didn't really shoot." The Asari said trying to appease the group. The group was suspicious and in turn Kalvin began to approach her.

"I'm not one of them! I'm new." She said clearly fearful of the group. "I thought that being Elnora the Mercenary would be cool... but I didn't know what they were really like." She said just before she took her gun out. The entire room all had their guns in response pointing at Elnora. If Elnora pulled the trigger she'd be made into human blue cheese.

"Alright Elnora, what do, or did they do here that you didn't like?" Kalvin asked with a raised brow at the Asari.

"I thought we'd be flying around the Galaxy shooting up bad guys like the Paladins." Elnora said showing the Paladins were just that well known. "But now, they just sell red sand and illegal weapons tech. They even smuggled an Ardat-Yakshi off world." Elnora said clearly fearful of what she helped take part in.

"What is an Ardat-Yakshi?" Allura asked with a raised brow.

"An Asari boogeyman." Penny cut in explaining what it was. "Basically, if two Asari were to meld and procreate, they risk the chances of an Ardat-Yakshi being born." Penny said recalling her time she served with the Asari Commandos. "It's why the Asari don't like purebloods." Penny finished which had more questions from the group. "It roughly translates to demon of the night wind." Penny said as Elnora looked to Penny in shock.

"She's right, and the scary lady we smuggled out of Illium is one." Elnora said which gave the group an idea.

"Do you have a name for the ship she was smuggled off of?" Jacob asked knowing that if they can get the name, they can get Samara on the team.

"Wow, I have no idea!" Elnora began with her tone showing near mock regret. "It was a few days ago and like I said, I'm new. They didn't tell me anything." Elnora said and in turn Kalvin looked towards Penny.

"Alright, Penny, anything else?" Kalvin asked and thus Penny nodded.

"Just one." Penny said before she had her Submachine Gun pointed at Elnora much to the Asari's shock. "Hands where we can see them, you're under arrest." Penny said surprising Jacob.

"Wait what?" Jacob asked as Elnora was surprised more so when Kalvin and Allura had guns on her also.

"Wait what for I'm new!" Elnora cried out shocked by what she heard.

"Yeah, but you're wearing an Eclipse Uniform." Penny said surprising Elnora. "See I served with Asari Commandos and one of them talked a lot about the Eclipse Mercs like how the only way you can get the suit you're wearing and officially join is if you kill someone." Penny said surprising Elnora that Penny served with Asari Commandos and saw right through her.

"Well, I mean this armor is... shit." Elnora cursed realizing she couldn't lie ger way out of this. Looking around she acted fast but not fast enough it would seem. She activated her Biotics and in response Kalvin threw one of Penny's Counter Measures before the team moved to cover. Elnora cried out when it went off and disrupted her Biotics allowing for Lotarius to tackle her to the ground. Not long after she was handcuffed by Jacob and locked down to a nearby structure.

"Ok let's get the ship manifest and come back for her." Kalvin said knowing that Elnora needed to face the consequences for her actions.

"That was fucking slick of you." Jack said with a smirk on her face. "Plus, it was hilarious to see the shitty flash bang that took me down from the outside." Jack added happy that she wasn't the one to get his by it this time.

"Come on we need to keep moving." Kalvin said and in turn they got moving once more.

(Later over with Sven's team)

The team stepped out of the elevator and found a lone Eclipse soldier on his radio. "I haven't heard from teams four of five." The Trooper said while on his radio. "Don't worry my team is always ready to go." He said when the one on the other end of the line asked if he was ready. "I don't know where he is, not yet." He said showing that his boss was asking where Thane was.

"Don't worry about it. We don't need any reinforcements I'll take care of it." He said with a cocky tone in his voice while the team began to approach him. "It's under control I'll go down there myself." He said before hanging up and when he did Zaed spoke.

"I suggest zat you turn around." Sven said ready to take this guy down if the need should arise.

As the merc did so as he sees a small group of people with some of them pointing a gun at him, and one of them that he notice were wearing Paladin's armor as he got a good look at them as he knew who they were and said, "Damn it."

"Have you seen zis assassin?" Sven asked the merc as he back up a bit as he said, "Why are you looking for him? You're not one of Nassana's mercs. Who are you?"

"Sven walk up the Merc as he backs up more very closely to the window as he said to him in a stronger tone to show that he was serious, "I'll ask again and vhis time nicely. Vere iz zi assassin please?"

"I've got nothing more to say to you. IF you shoot me, my team's right through there.," The merc said as he points to the door near them as he went on saying, "They'll be all over you."

"Shooting you I've an option, but if some info about the assassin Vorth dying over, or your employer Nassana?" Sven ask as he came up another step, as he wanted to avoid using his laser arm weapon if needed as it would work for silent killing but he's not that kind of guy, with his tactic worked as the merc said, "No... I suppose not."

"Ven tell us vat we vish to know," Sven said as the merc said, "Ok, look. Last I heard, the assassin was down on the mezzanine. But the teams on the bridge think they might've spotted him. Nobody knows for sure."

"Good, now if you vish to live... vun," Sven said as the merc did as he was told and got out of there quickly as he said, "I'm going."

"I'm a bit surprise you didn't kill that merc. Anyone else would have just shot him and got it over with," Kasumi, said as Sven turn to Her and said, "Maybe, vut I don't kill unless I have no other choice."

"That was a bit badass and a bit scary on how you got that guy to talk at least, I thought you were about to laser arm him or something," Hector said as Sven said to him, "Vat did cross my mind if he yell out to his team."

The group soon approach the next area as Eclipse soldiers was spread out in a small warehouse place as they spotted the group, as they open fire upon them with Hector fire his Bayard minigun at them, taking out quite a few of them before the rest return fire as the yellow paladin took cover with everyone open fire on them in return as well with Sven went in quickly as he pull out his gun and shoot at some nearby merc, taking them down quickly before he reloading.

But before he could, another merc rushed him from the sides, about to take him down before he could finish reloading, with Sven panic, he acted quickly as he activated his laser arm while it glow bright purple, and then suddenly thrust his arm out to the Eclipse member that got too close as he was stab right through with Sven quickly take his arm out of the dead merc now as he said, "Vell shit."

After that, the team took down the remaining members as thankfully there weren't that many around as Hector join his friend and ask him, "Holy crap, you alright there Sven?"

"Vah, but it cannot tell you zi same for zis vone," Sven said as the merc had a hole in his chest as he went on saying, "I didn't mean to stab him through. It's sort of happened."

"Well at least your alive. Let move on from here," Zaed said as Sven nodded as they went on into the next area as they came to a lock door which Sven hacked it well, as the door open up showing more Salarian who weren't wearing the Eclipse uniforms as they approach the group with Sven asked, "Are you guys alright in here?"

Suddenly one of them pulls a gun on the group and said, "Get back! Get back... I'll shoot."

"Hey-hey! don't shoot, we're the good guys here," Hector said as he held up his hand as the Salarian keep pointing the gun at them as he said, "I don't want to hurt you... but I will. I said get back! I'll do it! Please... don't make me do it."

"Hey ve're not zi bad guy here. Vould, you mind to tell us your name, please?" Sven asked the as he step up a bit making the Salarian point at him, as he calm down a bit but keep his gun as he said, "I- I'm Telon. Don't... come any closer."

"Okay Talon. I'm Sven. I am with the paladin of the Voltron. Ve are the good guys, ve are not vorking vith those merc, and ve don't vant to hurt you. Ve're here to help," Sven explain the best he could as Telon said, "I- I heard about you. D-didn't' you die?"

"My death vas exaggerate... a bit," Sven said as he didn't want to explain on how he was dead but came back to life thanks to Cerberus as he went on saying, "Please, give me the gun. No vone vill hurt you. I Promise."

"I... all right... here," Talon said as he lower his gun while put the safety on for Sven to take the gun and hold it for a moment as Talon went on saying, "I... don't feel so..."

Suddenly he fainted as another Salarian came up to the fainted Talon as he call out, "Talon!" as the others held up their gun to them, while Sven was calm seeing the Salarian was worried about his friend or he thought was a friend until the Salarian said, "He's, my brother. I just wanted to see if he's all right."

"It's fine," Sven said as he held up his hand to make everyone calm down and lower their gun as the brother of Talon said, "Are you the ones who... shot the merc?"

Looking over at an already dead body of an Eclipse soldiers as Sven said, "It vasn't us. Your brother didn't do it?"

"No. Telon was standing here with me," the Salarian said as Sven put away the gun as he ask the other brother, "What did happen then?"

"The merc found us and shouted at us to move. We panicked, and he shouted more. I thought he was going to kill us... then... his head just exploded. Telon picked up the merc's gun, but we were too afraid to leave. Then you showed up," the Salarian said as Tali check the body and saw the wound as she said, "No sign of any explosive that would don't this. his head was clearly blown off by a firearm, hard to say how close or far it was though."

"ve're looking for a person, maybe the one who had killed this one and save you guys. Did you see anyone come by here?" Sven asked as the Salarian said, "Telon thought he saw someone following us, but he been a bit... on edge. I haven't seen anyone but the mercs."

"Wow, if no one didn't see an assassin walk by here, he must be either very good at hiding or maybe using cloak technology like her," Hector said as he points to Kasumi as she said, "It may be possible, but never seen anyone else use a cloaking technology like me so it may be unlikely."

"Do you know how safe the bridge is out vere?" Sven asked as the Salarian said to him, "The bridge is stable, but the wind's your real problem. If it doesn't throw you off, the merc will definitely try. There's a lot of them out there."

"Hey man there are still mercs up here." Hector said to the Salarian. "You should get to the lower levels where its safe." Hector added which the Salarian nodded.

"No need to convince me." He said before he went about waking up his brother. "Telon... come on, get up." The Worker said as he got to waking up his brother. Helping his brother back to his feet Telon made his discomfort known.

"Can we go home now?" Telon asked once he was on his feet.

"Yeah, we're getting out of here." The Salarian said and in turn the group of Salarian workers began leaving. "Thank you." The Salarian worker said before joining the others in leaving.

The group got moving again as they headed out of the room over to the stairs that should take them closer to the bridge. But as they moved, they soon came upon an active communication terminal.

"Where is everyone?" Nassana asked showing just how clearly upset she was that her Mercs were not responding. "Would someone please give me a report!" Nassana demanded as she needed an update on their current situation.

"Iz zat Nassana?" Sven asked when he heard the voice.

"Yeah, sounds like her." Tali said confirming what she heard.

"Sounds upset." Zaed said noting that this woman was pissed.

"Answer me, damn it!" Nassana yelled as this got the groups attention.

"Real upset." Kasumi quipped as she and Tali looked to each other.

"Somebody, get down there and find out what's going on!" Nassana ordered on the channel and in turn this meant if no one answered more mercs would show up. Sven then sighed and walked over to the terminal and responded. "It's about time, what's going on down there?!" Nassana demanded to know to which Sven had the answer.

"Zorry you're men are unable to respond, Ms. Nassana." Sven responded to which Nassana heard and cursed.

"Dammit!" Nassana cursed as everyone drew their weapons.

"This is going to be fun." Grunt said with his signature laugh resonating from him.

"Lock and load ladies." Zaed added ready to pop some heads. In turn they got moving for the final charge to Nassana's office and hopefully to where Thane would be.

(Back with John Shepard's Group)

John and Ashley were on standby as they oversaw Oriana and her family being escorted to the ship. Miranda was doing the last sweep of the area with John just watching reminiscing about Kalvin. "You ok Shepard?" Ashley asked as John looked and nodded.

"Yeah, just thinking about all of this." John said referring to the lengths Miranda's father went through to get his narcissist project back. "I just can't imagine anyone one doing that to their own kids." John said feeling bad for Miranda.

"I can agree." Ashley said refusing to imagine any parent being that much of an ass.

"Just makes me think of Kalvin if I had raised him like that... if I was anyway like that man." John began but was cut off by Ashley.

"Hey, don't think like that Commander." Ashley said not wanting John to think of that not even for a minute. "Sure, you made some mistakes but you're a damn good parent." Ashley said but John scoffed a bit.

"Yeah sure, it just took my kid finding a robot lion for me to actually be there for him." John said recalling how Voltron was discovered to begin with.

"John what happened couldn't be helped." Ashley said putting a comforting hand on John's shoulder. "It was hard on all of us what happened one minute I'm grieving and the next thing I know I'm stuck playing a role I never thought I'd be playing." Ashley said assuring John that he was not at fault.

"I'm grateful that you were able to be what Kalvin needed while I was..." John said as Ashley chuckled a bit.

"Yeah, I'm pretty sure my mom and sisters have all but adopted him at this point." Ashley joked as John smirked a bit to this and then chuckled. It helped him to know that Kalvin had people looking out for him for these past two years.

Just then Miranda arrived and thus the pair looked to the woman. "No sign of Eclipse." Miranda reported which was good news. "It looks like we're clear." Miranda said having just finished her perimeter check.

"That's good to hear." Ashley said before they directed their attention on Oriana and her family.

"There she is." Miranda said once she saw Oriana there. "She's safe with her family." Miranda said happy that her younger sister was going to be ok. Miranda sighed as she took in the moment and allowed relief to wash over her knowing that Oriana will continue her life in blissful naivete of the danger she's in. After the moment had passed Miranda knew it was time to go leave Oriana to her life. "Come on we should go." Miranda said ready to head out.

"Don't you want to say hello?" John asked gesturing to Oriana knowing that Oriana had no idea Miranda existed.

"It's not about what I want, it's about what's right for her." Miranda said defensively even though she clearly wants to meet her sister. "The less she knows about me the better." Miranda said looking back towards Oriana and her family. "She's got a family. A life. I'll just complicate that for her." Miranda said before Ashley cut in on this.

"She doesn't need all the details, but do you honestly think it would be that bad for her to know she has a sister out there who loves her and is watching out for her?" Ashley asked speaking from one sibling to another.

Miranda took a moment to let those words sink in as she considered them. She spent all these years trying to protect her and this was the closest her father came to winning. More so with the suicide mission she might not get another chance after this. "I guess not." Miranda said conceding to Ashley's point.

"Go on. We'll wait here." John said encouraging Miranda to speak with her sister. In turn Miranda took the chance and walked over to Oriana and her adoptive family to do what John and Ashley suggested she does. The pair were willing to give Miranda all the time she needed for the sisters to meet.

(Meanwhile back with Kalvin's team)

Kalvin continued to lead his team through the Eclipse base taking out any enemies that tried to stop them while keeping their eyes peeled for any surprises. Their progress through this facility was of course met with a few surprises here and there. One such surprise was the evidence of what their captured Asari Merc, Elnora, had done. Just as Penny suspected Elnora was a killer and they managed to capture her before she could escape and kill again. The second surprised was the missing Volus that worked with their informant high as a cloud on Red Sand spouting about being a Biotic God.

The second surprised was a tad bit humorous and Penny made sure to get a recording of it for later laughs. All it took was a light push and he was out for the count. So, once they gave him space to leave, he went off to find a nice quiet spot to nap. With that Volus civilian moved to safety they had proceeded onward up to the point where they were now. There was one incident with a gunship, but that issue was dealt with easily enough thanks to their teamwork.

After much fighting and exploring they eventually arrived at the final room where they hoped the data, they were looking for was stored away. Entering the room, they found it was large enough they can spread out and fight properly in. Moving further in they found at the top behind a desk an Asari holding a data pad and by the looks of it she was NOT a happy mercenary.

She was noted to be wearing blue armor and had organ markings on her face. She kept reading the report as she drank what can only be assumed to be a glass of scotch. She then put the glass down and glared at the group before speaking. "Everything's gone to hell ever since we smuggled that filthy creature off world." The Asari said as she glared at the data pad. "First a Justicar shows up, now the Paladins." The Asari said before she put the data pad down and prepped herself for a fight.

"Well at least I can take pleasure in turning your heads into pulp mass!" She announced as she used her biotics to launch several objects at the group. Clearly this Asari was angry, and Kalvin's team was going to be her source to vent out her frustrations most violently.

"Biotic shield now!" Kalvin ordered and Penny and Jacob were the first to act. Putting up the shield the two humans blocked the debris before Kalvin had his next order. "Jack launch it back!" Kalvin ordered in which Jack did as she was told with a savage grin on her face.

"Suck is bitch!" Jack yelled as she launched the Mercenary's Biotic attack back at the source. The Asari Mercenary moved to cover and had her gun at the ready. At the same time more mercenaries began to enter the room ready to fight off the intruders and defend their leader.

The battle began as the Mercenary leader, Captain Wasea, had called for some backup as the gunfire began. "Get to cover!" Kalvin ordered which the crew understood. Kalvin and Allura ran for cover closer to Penny while Jack Lotarius ran for cover closer to Jacob. Once cover was acquired Penny brought down her shield and ran over to Kalvin and Allura's spot. Jacob did the same towards Lotarius and Jack's position.

"We need to take these guys out somehow," Kalvin said as there were many mercs around, and they were not messing around, as Penny said to him, "That maybe difficult as this place doesn't have a lot of room for cover."

Suddenly a case of red sand was flung over to them, thankfully Kalvin saw this as he use his biotic ability to stop it before shooting it out over the merc as they cry out a bit not able to see, as this gave Kalvin an idea as he said, "I think I figure out a way. Find all containers of red sand to throw it at them."

"Isn't throwing the red sand a bad idea?" Allura said as she knew that it increase biotic abilities as Kalvin said, "Maybe but only if they can see you. If we shoot them while in the air on their side, it will scatter like dust, creating a smoke screen, and also, we got our Biotic counter ready as well. Right Penny?"

"Bullet, grenades, or maybe my new sonic disruptor prototype rifle I had cooked up in the lap that I brought along just in case," Penny said as she pull out the sonic gun out of her bag that she folds out and put together into a rifle form as Allura asked, "Why do you have that?"

"Just something I had just in case Jack goes crazy or if the talk with the Justicar went badly. I'm always prepared for the worst-case scenario," Penny said as Kalvin ask her, "Will it work?"

"I'm sure and beside I tests these before using them in the field, and my new sonic gun would leave anyone with a bad migraine if they were hit with it," Penny said as Kalvin said, "I guess that can work just in case then, better let the others know."

Over by Jacob and his group as Kalvin call out over the coms and said, "Hey Jacob, Jack. You guys still with us?"

"Yeah, we're here and alive still," Jacob responded as he got up behind cover and fire a few shots as Jack said, "What do you want anyways?"

"Okay listen I need you and Jack to find any red sand around, throw at them so we can blind them, and don't worry about any biotic enhancement as long they can't see us, we can take the down quickly."

"You sure that could work? What if they do get enhance by the red sand, we would be able to survive against something like that," Jacob said a bit worry as Penny said to him, "Don't worry I got my anti-biotic weapons just in case, we can blind and stun them as needed."

"Sound good to me," Jack said as she was up for it, as she wanted to see more people get hit by stuff penny makes as she want people to share her own pain at times as Kalvin said, "Alright then, just grab, throw, and shoot at the containers with red sand before it hit the ground."

After that as the Eclipse merc try to advance closer until a couple of red sand containers came at them as the group got out from cover and fire upon the containers, making red sand go everywhere as the merc cry out with everyone while Penny throw some stun grenades over next which exploded very loudly and brightly stunning all the merc that were near the grenades the paladins and the others got up and return fire at the merc, taking them down fast.

Meanwhile as Captain Wasea was behind cover as she cover her face a bit, trying not to breath in the red sand while getting angry at this, while her produce was being wasted, while she said, "Damn these paladins I'm going to hurt them so much to make them beg me to kill them."

She got up while activating her biotic abilities as she pointed her hand at the group and attack them with a biotic shot, but to her surprise as a loud sound with strong pulse hit her as she cry out while she drop her gun, while her biotic abilities became disrupted and couldn't attack with it or even form a shield, as all she could do was to grab her head and cover the area where she can hear from, unable to focus at all before she went down when a bullet pierce her chest.

Showing what happen as it was Penny on the gun while Kalvin took the shot, ending the fight, as after a bit with everything had gone silent, and the red sand in the air dissipated, the group stood up and walk up to the desk area, showing that they had done it as Kalvin said, "No more Eclipse."

"Well, I'm glad you plan worked," Jacob said as he group back with the paladins with the others with Allura said, "I'm a bit surprise that worked at all."

"In a way, same here, but I'm glad Penny tools worked well enough as well. I can always count on Penny's work," Kalvin said as he trusted Penny's invention to work out well as Penny smile and said, "No problem."

Kalvin walk up to the desk and found the data pad that the Captain of the Eclipse had in her hand before as he look through it and found the info they were looking for as he said, "Bingo, found the name of the ship."

"Good, now let's go and get miss Samara to join us now then," Allura said as mostly everyone agrees to this as they soon headed out to meet with Samara and take her off the Detective's hands so everyone can leave peacefully.

"Hey, let's not forget the Asari we tied up earlier." Jacob said reminding the group that they still had the culprit in the murder investigation.

"Still think we should have splattered her across the wall." Jack said which Lotarius nodded in agreement.

"We're better than that and Paladins don't kill without justified cause." Allura said reminding Jack that the Paladins won't kill just because someone was disrespectful.

"Great Boy scouts and girl scouts fuck that." Jack growled as they got moving once more.

(Later back at the Precinct)

The group arrived at the Precinct with the Mercenary responsible for the murder being pushed by Jacob. Behind Detective Anaya's desk they saw Samara sitting there meditating by the looks of it. Anaya was surprised at seeing this while many eyes were on the group. "We got the name of the ship." Kalvin said as he presented the data pad to Samara.

"It looks like your fugitive left here two days ago on the AML Demeter." Penny added as she had been scrubbing the data since they got it.

"Impressive, Shepard." Samara said as she looked upon Kalvin. "It seems your every bit your mother's son as you are your fathers." Samara said impressed that Kalvin managed to pull it off. "You have held your end of the bargain so I shall hold my end of the bargain." Samara said intended on honoring her bargain to Kalvin and his allies. But unknowingly to all save Samara the Justicar would also be honoring a promised she had made to Jane so many years ago.

Samara stood up and hopped off the structure she was sitting on before directing her attention to the Detective. "I am ready to leave immediately, if that will satisfy your superiors, Detective?" Samara said to her fellow Asari knowing that now that she had her information they can move on.

"Your free to go, Justicar." Anaya said with a clear sigh of relief. "It has been an honor having you in my station. And it's nice you didn't kill me, too." She said showing she was grateful to have someone of renown in her station and grateful the same person did not kill her.

"Also, here." Kalvin said as Jacob pushed Enaya forward. "She's the killer your looking for." Kalvin said before pushing the recording of her confession to Anaya. "This is a recording of her bragging about what she did." Kalvin added as Anaya was surprised by this.

"Well, this certainly cuts back on weeks of detective work." Anaya said before she signaled for two more cops to take the Mercenary away.

"When we found her, she told us about what they smuggled on that ship." Penny said as she then looked to Samara. "Your hunting an Ardat-Yakshi aren't you." Penny said more then asked.

"I'm impressed that you learned this." Samara said not at all hiding it. "This Ardat-Yakshi is a dangerous criminal, and I will bring her to justice." Samara said as Kalvin nodded as he had several questions about his mother to ask Samara. "After your mission is complete of course." Samara said intending on honoring her deal with the team.

"Alright then our ships the Castle of Lions and the Normandy are docked by the main trading floor." Kalvin began informing Samara what she needs to know. "We have another team on a recruitment mission and a third team undergoing another mission." Kalvin said informing Samara of what is going on. "We plan to regroup over by the Trading Floor and distribute who goes on which ship, try to balance out between the two teams you see." Kalvin explained but before they could go any further with this Samara had to do one last thing.

"I must be sworn to your service, so that I am never forced to choose between your orders, and the code." Samara said and Kalvin knew he had to do it. One of the Paladins responsibilities is tact and to be respectful of the cultures of others unless said cultural aspects conflict with the Paladins duty to defend and secure freedom. In other words, Kalvin could not say no... especially not with Allura here watching him like a hawk.

"I appreciate it, Samara truly I do, and I mean no disrespect against your code, but can it wait until we meet with the Normandy's Commander?" Kalvin asked as he knew his Father was the one who received the task to recruit Samara.

"Perhaps. But I do not believe it is something that can be waited on." Samara said making it clear that she knew Kalvin meant no disrespect when he said that.

Kalvin knew they weren't going anywhere until they get this done and thus Kalvin sighed in defeat. "Alright I guess there is no use arguing." Kalvin admitted knowing that it was for the best.

Samara then focused before her eyes glowed white almost similar to an Asari meld. Once that was done, she prostrated herself to the ground much to the groups surprised and Kalvin's discomfort. "By the Code, I will serve you, Shepard. Your choices are my choices. Your morals are my morals. Your wishes are my code." Samara said as per her orders oath and when she finished, she allowed a small current of her biotics to flow around her body.

When it was done Samara stood back up as Anaya looked over to Kalvin. "I never thought I see a Justicar swear an oath like that." Anaya said as Allura found it fascinating.

"If you make me do anything extremely dishonorable, I may need to kill you when I am release from my oath." Samara said and while it seemed joking Kalvin suspected it was true. "Though I do not believe I will need to worry I suspect that if you are anything like your father you have that same honorable code that complimented your mothers more brutal code." Samara said as she often wondered how Jane could be so savage yet still seek justice.

"Thank you, Lady Samara we look forward to working with you." Allura said happy to have the aid of this Asari Justicar.

"Truly, the life of a Justicar can get lonely. I admit I am looking forward to serving in the company of honorable heroes," Samara informed the team with a nod.

"Yeah. That's…one way of describing us," Jack muttered to herself causing Lotarius to look over to Jack with a skeptical look.

"Shall we return to your ship," Samara then asked, having not heard Jack, a fact that Kalvin could not help but feel very thankful for.

(Meanwhile Back with Sven's Team)

After having fought their way up through Nassana's building, Sven, Tali, Hector, Kasumi, Grunt, and Zaeed were ready to get into one final showdown with the Asari's last line of defense. Tt looked like Nassana was going to be more than happy to throw the Eclipse mercenaries at them like they were the mechs that had already been destroyed.

With the group walks in, Nassana turns around and looks at the group as she says, "Well I am a bit surprise to see you all have gotten already here, and with all of those mercenaries I hired didn't make a different it seem."

"Money vell spent," Sven said getting Nassana attention onto him as she look to him and her upset look turn into shock as she said, "Wait, I know you. You're the original blue paladin. You're dead."

"I've got better," Sven said as he could not help but laugh a little bit to that joke, Monty Python, and the Holy Grail still a classic of famous liners, as Nassana said to him as Eclipse mercs around her pointed their guns at the group as, "And you're here to kill me. I would have expected Commander Shepard's son to come here to do the deed himself."

"You're a bit paranoid aren't you, and what do you mean about for Kalvin?" Sven question as it seem while being dead, he missed quite a few things as Nassana said, "Don't patronize me, and play ignorant won't work on me."

"Charming, vut I'm not playing," Sven said as Nassana said, "Really, if you are or not, as this is very ironic to be. First Commander Shepard taken care of my sister, I expected him to come after me next, but sense he died I would come down to his son, the black paladin of Voltron, but instead of I get one of you, or in this case two of you. can't either Shepard do it themselves, so they gotten someone else to do it."

"I vill have no idea what you're talking about, but I'm not here vor you," Sven said being honest as possible but it seem the Asari before him can't tell reality from her own delusional as she said, "Really, then what's the reason for destroy my tower? Decimating my security?"

"Ve're looking for someone," Sven said as Nassana snap at him saying, "You expect me to believe that? Is it credits? Is that what you want?"

There was some thudding sounds from above as Sven step back as he said, "All zi credits in zi vorld- nay the galaxy von't make zis problem go away."

"Who the hell gave you and any of you paladins the right to play god? I may not be perfect but look at you. We both kill people for money. What's the difference?"

"I zink you have me confused vith zi SPECTRE's. I am with zi Paladins of Voltron, defenders of zi universe. Even if I'm no longer a paladin myself, I fight vor justice, not vor fame or credits. You ask vhat the difference between you and I? You kill people because you zink zhey are beneath you. In zhe vay. I kill to protect myself and others vhen there is no other choice."

"You got a choice. You don't have to do this. I can tell you..." Nassana said while trailing off as she got a bit distracted by the merc looking around for some reason as more thudding sound could be heard as the Asari Commando that was near her said, "I heard something."

"Damn it. Check the other entrances!" Nassana said as she send her commander to check it out, unaware of the true threat was above as Nassana turn to the Sven and his group and said, "And you stay put."

Unaware to her or her two merc as someone drop down behind them, as the assassin finally appeared as Nassana started to say, "When I'm finish dealing with this nuisance, you and I are going to-

Suddenly the assassin break one merc's neck while punch the other next to him as Nassana stop and turn to said assassin and said, "Who?

Before she could get a word out, the assassin killed the commando right away, while also pulled Nassana in close to him before putting his gun to her gut and pull the trigger, as a suppressed shot was heard, no doubt killed Nassana with that as he let her down genially on her desk while she take her final breath, the guy put Nassana arms on her chest before stepping back and did a pray himself or that what it looks like as Hector said, "I'm sorry that was a bit fast. Did he just take out 3 merc and the bad lady in like- I don't know 3 seconds?"

Sven walks up a bit as he said, "Hello. I hope ve could talk for a bit?"

"I apologize, but prayers for the wicked must not be forsaken," the assassin said as Sven said to him, "Understood, but does she really deserve one?"

"Not for her, for me." Thane said correcting Sven's assumption.

"I don't follow." Hector said as he scratched his head a bit in confusion.

"The measure of an individual can be difficult to discern by actions alone." Thane began once he finished his prayer. "Take you for instance. All this destruction... chaos." Thane said walking around the desk to meet with the group. "I was curious to see how far you'd go to find me." Thane said as he stopped in front of the desk. "Well... here I am." Thane said but Sven had a question.

"But how did you know ve vere coming here?" Sven asked confused for a bit.

"I didn't. Not until you marched in the front door and started shooting." Thane said but Sven had a counter to that.

"Zere vere people being shot at." Sven said defending why he did what he did. "Ve had to do something before ze civilians vere killed." Sven said making it clear that even though he was no longer a Paladin he still put innocent lives first.

"I saw how you actively tried to help every civilian you came across. I'm not disregarding your good deeds." Thane said before he continued to speak ."Nassana had become paranoid she believed that one of her sisters was out to get her, her guard force was proof of that." Thane said looking away from Sven. "You were all a valuable distraction." Thane finished but Grunt growled to this not liking that he had been used.

"Zen let's move on, Commander Shepard sent us to recruit you for a mission." Sven said detailing why they came here for Thane.

"Indeed?" Thane asked wanting to hear what this job is.

"Are you familiar vith zi collectors?" Sven asked wanting to make sure Thane was up to speed.

Thane walked to the side as he had his response. "By Reputation." Thane said and thus Sven nodded to this.

"Zey are abducting entire human colonies." Sven began giving Thane the details. "Ve have a plan to take zi fight to zem." Sven explained which surprised Thane.

"Attacking the Collectors would require passing through the Omega-4 Relay." Thane said honestly shocked by this. "No ship as ever returned from doing so." Thane explained which Sven nodded.

"Ve are working on a plan to handle zat issue." Sven explained to the Assassin. "Even zen ve have those who had made performing zi impossible a daily task." Sven said speaking of the Shepard's and the Paladins.

"Fair point." Thane said as he then closed his eyes and considered the offer carefully. "This was to be my last job," Thane said after taking a brief moment to consider it. "I'm dying. Low survival odds don't concern me. The abduction of the human colonists does." Thane explained his reasons for accepting the job offer.

"Wow are you contagious because Penny can be a bit of a germaphobe." Hector said causing Tali to elbow the Paladins.

"No, the problem isn't contagious, and it won't affect my work." Thane said assuring the crew that he can handle what this mission entails. "If you require any further details, we can discuss them later," Thane informed her, clearly showing her that he did not want to talk about it right now.

"Well, there must be something we can do," Kasumi prompted. She could not really help herself hanging around the Paladins had made her want to help others when able.

"Giving me this opportunity is enough," Thane said as he reassured the master thief. "The universe is a dark place. I'm trying to make it brighter before I die." He said as he then became a little more somber recalling something from earlier as they were all making their way up. "Many innocents died today. I wasn't fast enough, and they suffered. I must atone for that. I will work for you, Paladins and Commander Shepard, no charge." Thane said offering his hand to shake.

Sven nodded and took the hand and shook it accepting Thane. "Welcome to zi team zen Thane." Sven said welcoming Thane as a comrade in arms. With their tasks down it was time to depart and meet back up with the others.

(Scene Break The Trading Floor)

Miranda had spent a great deal of time talking to her sister and needless to say it was a great weight off her shoulders. Despite this they still had a bigger mission to worry about so seeing the other teams return with their recruits was certainly a plus. "I see you found our recruits." John said as he noticed Kalvin almost beaming a bit.

"It vas not easy but Thane has agreed to help." Sven said gesturing to Thane.

"Your telling me." Kalvin joked as the two new members of the crew stood there.

"The elder Commander Shepard I assume." Samara said as she walked over to John.

"Yes." John said looking to Samara. "Welcome aboard I heard you're a powerful warrior." John said which Samara nodded.

"I have also heard of you; your wife use to speak of you in great detail." Samara said which surprised John that Jane used to know an Asari Justicar. "Your son seems to have inherited the best of both of you." She added as Ashley smirked at that part which showed that her words now had merit.

"Yeah, surprised me too." Kalvin admitted as Samara nodded.

"Thank you." John said regaining himself for that one.

"Hey dad... commander we also have a few issues to discuss not here but one of these issues would serve best to have Thane on the Normandy." Kalvin said his tone suggesting that this was possibly a reason to bring Mordin in.

"Alright we can discuss this in detail once." John began when Leon was heard nearby cutting him off.

"Hey guys!" Leon called out and in turn all eyes looked and saw Leon approaching with Garrus. "So good news our Thanux Cannons are a go, but we'll need some time to install them so we're going to have to keep the ships docked for the time being." Leon said before Garrus cuts in.

"We'll have to do a bit more work for the Castle of Lions though even if its advance it's still well over 50,000 years old." Garrus said reminding the group that they will be stuck here for a bit longer.

"That can work perfectly." Tali said as she saw how this work could give them extra time.

"Yeah, we did promise we'd give Liara a hand." Ashely added reminding everyone that Ashley needed some help.

"Then let's head back to the ships and get the recruits settled." Allura said wishing to welcome the new arrivals.

"Commander Shepard." Samara cut in for a moment. "If you allow it, I believe my services would best be served on the Castle of Lions." Samara said as John heard her out.

"I approve, the Castle could use a powerful Biotic that can help tutor Penny." John said with a smile as Penny pouted a bit. Thus, with all in agreement the group began to head to the ships. Unaware to them certain parties were making their move.

(Scene Break The Illusive Man)

The Illusive Man smirked as he saw images of the Quintessence Comet within sight of a Cerberus controlled vessel. With this comet Cerberus can finally begin to make progress on their own Voltron and with it a means to tip the balance of power towards humanities hands. With a dark smirk The Illusive Man pulled up data on three sets of blueprints.

The Blueprints showed three robots colored in red, blue, and black with three pod vehicles attached to said blueprints. A new Voltron would be born and hopefully before the Reapers arrived. A suitable name would be needed... for now they will call it Project Gladiator. With this new Gladiator Voltron humanity will take its place at the pinnacle of power.

(TBC)

ESKK: Well, another chapter off the docket I hope you all enjoyed it and will join us again for chapter 10 as we enter the Lair of the Shadow Broker. See you next time and again I will say, ja-ne.