Mass Effect Chronicles: Book I: The Saren Chronicles

By FeaganofLegends

Story Legend:

Locations and Time Stamps- Bold and Underlined

Characters' Thoughts- Italics

Actions- Normal Text

"Dialogue"- Normal text in parenthesis

Communications- Bold and Italicized

Chapter IX: A Moment of Reprieve

Normandy SR1- Communications Room

2183.12.11- 06:00:00 GST

Normandy SR-1- Captain's Cabin

2183.12.11- 07:15:00 GST

Alex was sitting in his desk.

Garrus, Tali, Wrex and Kaidan all stood before him.

Alex spoke gently, "So I wanted to first say I was impressed with all three of your performances on the mission. You all performed admirably and followed orders."

Tali responded quickly, "Thank you Commander!"

She felt herself grow red under the helmet.

Garrus then saluted the Commander. "Thank you sir! It's an honor to serve!"

Wrex let out a guffawed laugh. "That was a lot of fun Shepard!" He then turned his gaze to Garrus with a dark chuckle. "I still don't know what to make of the turian! But he can fight!"

Garrus then narrowed his eyes at the krogan. "Is there something you want to say to me Wrex?"

Wrex gave the turian soldier a wide grin. "Oh trust me turian! There is a lot I want to say to you and your kind! I haven't forgotten about the genophage you know!"

The two sized each other up.

Tali let out a frustrated grunt and crossed her arms.. Well turians…and krogans have a rough history. This is to be expected.

Alex let out a frustrated sigh as he stood up his voice commanding. Slamming his hands down on the table, he shouted, "Alright you two! Settle down! I won't have a firefight in my quarters! Unless you'd both like to see how fast I am with a pistol!"

Garrus turned back to the Commander and gave a stiffened salute. The born soldier felt himself shiver a bit. "Y-Yes Commander! I apologize for getting out of line!

Wrex just turned to Alex and grinned as he crossed his arms. "You've got guts, Shepard. You know who I am, right? What I'm capable of? I could crush your skull with one stomp."

Alex then stood up and cleared the distance between them, staring the krogan down with no fear in his eyes. He then drew his omniblade and rested it at his side. "Go ahead Wrex. Try it. I'll jam my omni-blade in your frontal plate before you draw it." Garrus and Tali both stared in awe at him. The turian then turned to her chuckling, "I have to say...I'm glad Shepard is the boss. He's more fearless than I thought he'd be. Not many aliens have the guts to stand up to a krogan."

Tali turned her head to him and nodded. "I have to agree Garrus. I don't know many humans who're as calm or calculated as Shepard is." She then stared at Alex and smirked under her helmet. Or as…attractive. I'm a lucky woman.

Wrex chuckled as he stared the human in the eyes. "Heh. I have to say. I've never met a human with the balls to stare me down. Most of your kind shiver a bit in the presence of my kind." He then sighed and shook his head. "Heh. You've earned my respect, Shepard. You are something."He then clapped the human hard on the back.

Alex groaned in pain as he lurched forward.

The krogan then grinned. "Out of respect to you…I'll play along."

Wrex then walked off without a word.

Tali gasped and then put a hand on the Commander's back. "You alright A…" She then blinked, let out a sigh of relief for catching herself, and corrected herself, "...Shepard?"

Alexander turned to her and nodded with a grunt. "Fine. Damn. He is hard to read."

Garrus crossed his arms and nodded. "That's a krogan for you. As blunt as ever."

Garrus then put his dextro-hand on Alexander's shoulder. "Be seeing you Shepard."

The turian then walked off without a word.

Alexander and Tali watched him walk away.

Alex chuckled, "Turians and krogans really don't like each other."

Tali just nodded, "That would be an understatement my love." She then turned to him. "I was surprised that you could stand up to Wrex like that. Krogan are known for being intimidating."

He just shrugged, "Krogan culture respects bravery and guts. You just need to learn to respond in kind." She smiled as she took a quick look around. We're alone. She then leaned onto him, wrapping her arms around his waist and giggling, "You're so resourceful."

He smiled at her and joked, "Well, thank you. I'd say the same for you. I don't think I could live in a suit my whole life. " She giggled and held onto him tighter. "It takes a lot of getting used to." She looked up at him and smiled, "Take off my helmet."

He nodded and did so. She grabbed his face and pressed his lips against hers. Her violet eyes stared into his for a moment. She sighed and pouted a bit, "I really want more of that. Unfortunately…I've got to get back to work. Promise me you will come by later?"

He kissed her back and smirked, "Cross my heart and hope to die." She smiled back and let go of his face. "Good." She then put her helmet back on and walked off without a word.

Medical Bay- Normandy SR-1

2183.12.11- 08:00:00 GST

Alex walked into the medical bay. He spotted Doctor Chakwas tending to Liara. She was resting on one of the beds.

Both women immediately noticed his presence.

He gave them both a small smile. "How's our Prothean expert holding up, Doctor?"

Doctor Chakwas gave Alex a small smile. "Liara will be fine. She just needed to rest for a while."

Alex gave the doctor a nod. "Good to hear. Would you mind giving us a minute? I want to speak with her in private."

Doctor Chakwas gave the man a nod and a smile. "Of course. Please let me know if her condition changes." She then walked out of the room.

Liara gave Alex a small smile. "Thank you again, Commander, for sharing your mind with mine." "That…vision was eye-opening for me. I've never experienced a find that important in all my fifty years of searching for the Protheans."

Alex then took in a deep breath and sighed. Again, the asari woman's aura of calmness and beauty seemed to draw him in.

He took a deep breath and calmed himself. She walked up to him, intending to take his hands in hers, but stopped herself. She then began nervously rubbing her hands. "I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable with my touch. I-It wasn't my intention. I-I just got so excited."

Alex then smiled and put a hand on her shoulder. "You're fine Liara—nothing to worry about. I was a scientist once. I know the feeling."

She turned to look at him and blushed with a smile, "Thank you for your gracefulness." She then sighed as she sat down, her eyes forlorn. "I..would have been dead to rights if you and your team hadn't rescued me. When I activated that beacon…I didn't know how to turn it off. It was a…frightful experience."

He smirked, "Glad we could help." He sighed, "I apologize for interrupting your rest, but I have some questions I need answered."

Liara then bounced up from her seat with the warmest smile she could muster as she leaned forward, putting her hands together. "N-No! Please! Ask whatever you need! I'd be happy to offer any answers I can!"

He then nodded, "Okay then. I'll get straight to the point. Have you been in contact with your mother? Do you know of any reason she joined up with Saren?"

Liara paused for a moment before she answered. "As for the first question….I have not." She frowned. "I am still considered young by asari standards and my career choice as a…Prothean researcher wasn't exactly celebrated. My mother and I haven't spoken in fifty years. We have what some would call a…complicated relationship."

Alex just nodded, "That sounds rough. I'm sorry to hear."

Liara smiled at him faintly, "Such is life, Alex." She then stopped herself and put a hand over her mouth. "Oh! Forgive me! I-I didn't mean to blurt that out! I just thought of using a shortened version of Alexander!"

Alex chuckled, grinned, and shook his head. "Eh. It's fine. Between you and me…Tali calls me Alex as well. I trust her. I think I can make that same exception for you. Just don't call me that around the crew. Either Shepard or Commander is fine. I have to ensure the Normandy is held to some level of professionalism."

Liara just smiled, blushed again, and nodded. He's so kind and handsome. Really an enigma. She then smiled, "Thank you again. I will use discretion. You have my word on that." She then smiled, "So, back to the topic at hand…I don't know why my mother joined up with Saren." She then pressed her hands against her scalp crest. "She's always pushed for the Republics and for our people to get more involved in galactic politics." She then pressed her hands together. "I suspect she was trying to guide Saren in his goals and…somehow got intertwined in whatever…nefarious plot he has cooked up with the geth." She then rested her hands against her face. "I'm…sorry. This is not an easy topic for me."

He then pulled her into a hug.

She blinked.

His friendly embrace felt…calming. She hugged him back on reflex. "Hey. It's alright. I'm sorry if this is a lot. We…just don't have a lot of intel on whatever plan he has cooked up. That's all I needed. Thank you for opening up to me."

She smiled slightly, "I'm…just happy to help." The two then broke the hug.

Liara blinked, "Can I ask a question now? It is a bit personal."

Alex just nodded, "Depends on what it is."

She nodded, "You and that quarian…there's something between the two of you, isn't there?"

Alexander blinked at her but nodded. "An astute observation Liara. We are…we just don't broadcast it to the crew. Other than you…no one else has noticed. I want to keep it that way. My personal affairs are…well…personal."

Liara smiled. "I understand. You can trust me in confidence. I consider you a friend." She then sighed.

He nodded and smiled, "So do I." He then got up from his seat. "Come on. I'll show you to your quarters."

Liara smiled, "Thank you…Alex."

Normandy SR-1- Pilot's Seat

2183.12.11- 08:15:00 GST

Alex stood near the intercom and activated it.

Alright crew! We are making a small pit stop at the Citadel! You all are free to take a bit of shore leave.

Cheers suddenly erupted all over the ship. Alex let out a small chuckle. They sure seem excited. He then continued.

Make sure not to cause trouble. It will all fall back on me and Ambassador Udina if any of you start problems on the Citadel. You will not like the consequences!

Alex emphasized the seriousness in his voice with those last words. He then let out the deep breath he had been holding in. Hopefully, they understand.

Tali. Garrus. You two are with me!

Docking Bay 47, Citadel

2183.12.11-09:00:00 GST

Alex, Tali, and Garrus stood outside the entrance to the Normandy.

Alex was clad in his N7 armor sans the helmet. "Alright, let's move out!"

The two then headed to the elevator and sent it to C-Sec Academy. As they exited the elevator, Alex was stopped by a dark-skinned woman in a stylish purple dress. She had a bob haircut. "Hello, Commander!" "I was wondering if I could have a word."

Alex raised an eyebrow at her. "And you are?"

The woman then smiled at him and outstretched a hand. "My name is Khalisah al-Jilani. I'm a reporter with Westerlund News. I was wondering if I could have a word."

Alex crossed his arms at the woman and gazed at her suspiciously, "Depends on the questions."

Khalisah suddenly had a giddy expression on his face. She smiled coyly, "Thank you, Commander! I appreciate your time!" She then activated her recorder bot. "We are live. So you have been chosen as the first human Spectre. Some call your appointment nothing more than an attempt by the Council to interfere in human affairs. They think you are nothing more than their pet. What do you say to that?"

Alex let out a sigh, cleared his throat and spoke authoritatively. He put his hands behind his back. "I'm no one's pet. I'm still an Alliance soldier, and last I checked, I'm still human. Let me be clear. I joined the Spectres to do one thing."

The reporter then raised an eyebrow at him. "What would that be, Commander?"

Alex replied, "I joined the Spectres to defend all of civilization from Saren Artemus and his army of geth. Saren Artemus is a former Spectre who has betrayed his oath to the Council. He and his army of geth plan to resurrect the Reapers and eliminate all of organic life. He is a threat to the Systems Alliance, Turian Hierarchy and every other race in the galaxy. The Council sent me to stop him by all means necessary! That is my mission! No other reason!"

Khalisah continued, "I see! So that is why you have a quarian, turian, and a krogan on the Normandy!" She then narrowed her eyes at the quarian and the turian. "Are you sure you can trust them, Commander? The Normandy is an Alliance vessel paid for by our tax dollars! For all we know, they could be gathering intelligence for their races in a plot to destroy us! Or they could be working for this alien terrorist!"

Tali and Garrus narrowed their eyes on the woman.

Tali let out a loud, indignant huff. What a bosh'tet! Like I would align myself with a madman like Saren!

Garrus's mandibles twitched in frustration. This woman is an utter tool. "Like I would align myself with Saren."

Alex let out a groan, closed his eyes and shook his head. Ah. I see what she is doing now. She is a tabloid journalist. She merely wanted to paint me in a corner. She is probably aware of my views towards non-humans and wanted to falsify my words for clicks. I am putting an end to this now!

He then cleared his throat and sent the woman a glare. "I'm going to leave you with this. The non-humans on my ship want the same thing I do! They want to stop Saren! Now if you'll excuse me!"

He then quickly brushed past the woman.

Garrus and Tali eagerly followed him.

Khalisah was gazing at him with a shocked expression on her face. He just brushed me off! Damn it! I need more if I write a hit piece on him. She called out desperately, "Commander, wait!"

Alex and his squad merely walked off without a word.

Lower Wards, Citadel

Alex, Garrus, and Tali were now in the Lower Wards looking for a vendor.

Alex let out a sigh. He turned back to his two squadmates. "I apologize for all that back there, you two. I had no idea she was going to try and paint me in a corner like that. I'm sorry for her attitude." Garrus chuckled and shook his head. "No harm don,e Shepard." "I'm used to it. Some of my kind are too fond of humans themselves."

Tali turned to Alex and then to Garrus. Well…Garrus knows about the two of us. I can afford to let my guard down. She then grabbed his arm and rested her head on his shoulder, "No apologies needed, Alex! I quite enjoyed that actually! It's fun watching you shout!"

Alex gave the quarian a wide smirk and smirked at her. "Is that so? I'll be sure to do that more often then!"

The quarian felt herself blush under the facemask. She giggled, "Please do."

Garrus then chuckled. Heh. Those two are cute together.

The three of them then came across a little store that had neon purple lights on the roof.

It was pretty small in size and looked a bit run down.

Tali's eyes widened with glee when she saw it.

There was Khelish graffiti drawn on the walls.

"That's something interesting. I hardly see Khelish written around the Citadel. That looks like a chop shop."

She then turned to Shepard and batted her eyes at him as she brushed his hair to the side.

Alexander felt his face flush red. "W-What's up?" Even though he couldn't see her full expression….he could tell she was smirking behind her mask.

She giggled. And just like that…I've got you under my spell. Liara can't do that. Checkmate. She then spoke in a flirtatious tone, "My neyha…Do you mind if we stop for a detour? My envirosuit needs upgrades."

He blinked, "That…ah...depends. How much is it going to cost?"

She then smirked as she leaned in, "I may require some new technical upgrades here and there…but it is mostly for a checkup. I'm not on the Flotilla, so it isn't like there are a lot of quarian doctors around. It's usually around four hundred credits for the medical checkup and five hundred to one thousand…for upgrades…depending on what I get."

Garrus turned to her. "Damn. I thought it'd be more. Those suits look expensive most of the time."

Tali turned to him, smiled under her mask and nodded, "They can be…it depends on what I prefer." She turned her violet eyes on Alex, "So…what do you say? I'd pay for it myself but I didn't have many credits when I fled to Dr. Michel's clinic. It would mean a lot to me if you would pay for it."

Alex turned to her and nodded. He couldn't deny his quarian girlfriend especially when she stared so lovingly into his eyes with her bright violet ones. "I can deal with that price tag. Just know that I do have a limit. Okay?"

She squealed as she hugged him.

He blinked as he instinctively hugged her back. He noticed the envirosuit was snug to the touch and made of very flexible fabric. She spoke, the relief inherent in her voice, "Thank you. You really are the best." She then took him by the hand and began leading him in the chop shop. "Come on."

The quarian storefront owner blinked at the three of them as they came in, speaking in relief, "Keelah! Actual customers!"

Alex blinked as he took a look at her envirosuit. It was made of a hue of reds and yellows. She smiled from under her mask and took Tali's hands in hers. "Welcome ka'nah."

Tali then smiled and nodded, "Thank you ka'nah. It's amazing you have a chop shop here in the Citadel. I didn't know this place existed." The other quarian woman nodded, "It took a while to get a permit, but I figured we needed a place to feel at home here. We don't get that many visitors. Most of the time…I have to threaten batarian assholes with my shotgun."

Garrus nodded, "That…sounds fair. Quarians aren't well-liked on the Citadel."

Alex just nodded.

Tali smiled, "Your name ka'nah?"

The woman smiled, "Sala'Gaelas nar Luron. Yours?"

Tali smiled, "Tali. Tali'Zorah nar Rayya."

The woman smiled, "Nicely met." She then stared at Garrus and Alex, "I see you keep interesting company. A human and a turian. Interesting." She then blinked at Alex, "Wait. I know you. You're that human that was on the news. Alexander Shepard. The Alliance's noted expert on alien cultures and the first human Spectre."

Alex turned red and rubbed the back of the head. "Heh. Word travels fast. Nice to meet you, Sala'Gaelas."

The quarian then took his hands into hers. "No! The honor is truly mine! I'm an admirer of your work!"

Tali crossed her arms and smirked, "That's nice, but I'd recommend you watch yourself. He's my boyfriend."

The quarian turned to her, turned red, and nodded, removing her hands. "Oh…of course. My apologies."

Tali smirked, "Quite all right. I can understand the interest." She then squeezed Alex's hand, "I want to see what you have for sale. I need some upgrades."

The woman nodded, "Of course."

She then returned to Tali and bowed, dextro-hands together, "It would be my pleasure."

Alexander and Garrus followed the quarian as she browsed the wares. Once she picked up everything she needed, she walked to the storefront.

Alexander and Garrus followed the quarian as she browsed the wares. Once she picked up everything she needed, she walked to the storefront.

The quarian woman smiled at her, "Did you find everything you needed sister?"

Tali smiled and nodded, "I did." The other quarian nodded, "That will be two thousand credits."

Tali chuckled. She walked over to Alex, smirked, cupped his face with a hand, and turned to the other quarian, "My precious human will take care of the bill."

The quarian nodded, a slight smirk on her face. "So he will. You will find the clean room to your left. All amenities and privacy included."

Tali nodded as she took the small bag from the counter. "Thank you." She smiled at Alex, speaking in a flirtatious voice, "Now my nehya...No following me. I don't mind you staring. I like having your eyes on me, after all, but I can't allow you to see me naked just yet. I have to leave some mystique after all.

Alexander scowled as he blinked, and his face reddened, "Oh, come now, Tali. I wasn't thinking…" He then blinked as a mental image appeared, and his eyes widened.

She laughed as she caressed his face with a hand. "Hah. And now you are. My work here is done." She then walked off without a word.

Garrus chuckled, "Damn. She is good. I have to say…you are a lucky man, Shepard."

The quarian storefront owner nodded with her smirk, "Indeed…I wouldn't have believed that you had an attraction to quarian women, Commander Shepard. Treat her well. Quarian women are beautiful, loyal, resourceful and cunning. Treat her well. You won't regret it."

Alexander just calmed himself, closing his eyes and touching his heart. "Thank you. Both of you."

Tali emerged from the changing room dressed in a purple and black envirosuit. She then hit some of the buttons on her omni-tool. BlueWire Version 2.5 calibrated. "There we go. All ready to go." She smiled as she walked towards Alex, speaking in a sing-songy voice. "Oh, Alex. How do I look?"

Alex turned and felt his jaw drop. "Tali…you look beautiful."

Garrus looked as well. Even he had to admit Tali looked beautiful and enticing in the envirosuit. She wears that well…I'm more into Asari and Turians myself, though.

Tali smiled at Alex. "Ah. That's the reaction I wanted. I rather enjoy rendering you speechless." She then put his arms around her waist. "I'm glad you like it my love. I had a fondness for the purple-and-black color scheme."

Lower Wards, Citadel

2183.12.11-12:10:00 GST

Alex, Garrus,, and Tali were walking toward the elevator to the Presidium. Alex had already ordered the premium dextro-rations from a rations shop and had some men load them on the Normandy. Garrus and Tali nodded at one another. Garrus said, "Glad we have an ally in the Commander. It'll be nice to have some good rations on the ship."

Tali gave him a nod, "Indeed."

Suddenly, Alex's omni-tool went off. Commander Shepard, Are you there?

Alex activated his comms. Yes. Who is this?

A female voice came over the comm. My name is Shai'ra. I'm the Asari Consort. I have a problem that needs solving. I've heard about you and your reputation. I'd be more than willing to reward you for your efforts.

Alex let out a sigh. Of course, it is an asari. First, there was the Councilor. Then, the doctor. And now the consort. Hopefully, I will keep my cool this time. He then activated his comm. Alright. Where can I find you Shai'ra? He heard a relieved sigh on the other end. You can find me in the Consort Chambers on the Presidium.

Alex cleared his throat. Alright, I'll head there now.

Consort Chambers, Presidium, Citadel

2183.12.11-01:00:00 GST

Alex, Garrus, and Tali walked off the elevator. Alex let out a grunt as he gazed at the scenery. "Shame the Reapers are coming to destroy all this. It is quite beautiful seeing interracial harmony between the races like this."

Garrus lightly chuckled, "You know you are unlike any other human I have ever met, Shepard. You seem to hold an air of authority around yourself and have a realist point of view on things." "Yet you are strangely an optimist at the strangest of times."

Alex turned his head towards the turian and half grinned at him. "I was a scholar before I was a soldier, Vakarian." "You hold on to that optimism after a while. It keeps you sane when you least expect it."

Garrus gave the human an understanding nod.

A voice called out to them. "Commander!" Alex turned to his right. It was Liara. "Oh hey there Liara!" The asari scientist smiled at him. "I hope you are well, Alex."

Alex gave her a nod as his face turned red. Her voice drew him in again, as did her beauty. "He closed his eyes and took a breath. "I am, thank you. I hope you are feeling better."

Liara gave him a smiling nod. "I am. I appreciate your concern."

She then turned to Garrus and Tali. "M-My apologies to you both. I didn't introduce myself to you both back on the ship properly. My name is Liara T'Soni. I'm an archaeologist who has spent fifty years studying the Protheans. It is a true pleasure to meet you both."I-I don't meet many quarians or turians on my travels." Liara then started fidgeting nervously with her hands. I hope I'm not coming across as too awkward. I usually don't converse with people that often.

Garrus's mandibles twitched in curiosity. She is an interesting one. He then outstretched a dextro-hand. "Garrus Vakarian. Former C-Sec officer and Shepard's second in command. I met Commander Shepard when he first testified to the Council. I was in charge of C-Sec's investigation on Saren. I joined Shepard to lend my C-Sec expertise and stop Saren. It's a pleasure to meet you, Liara! Please call me Garrus!"

Liara replied and shook the turian's forceps, "Pleasure to meet you, Garrus!"

She then turned her eyes towards Tali. The quarian gazed at her with a suspicious look in her eyes. If she doesn't try to make a move on the Commander, I won't have a problem with her. Tali then outstretched a dextro-hand and spoke in a calm tone. "Tali'Zorah nar Rayya. But I prefer people call me Tali for short. I was the one who found evidence that linked Saren to the geth. Shepard and his squad saved my life in the Wards when I attempted to sell the information to the Shadow Broker. I joined them because I wanted to stop Saren as well. I'm also the squad's chief expert on the geth since my people created them. A pleasure to meet you."

Liara shook Tali's dextro-hand. "The pleasure is all mine Tali."

She then glanced at Alex for a moment biting her lip nervously, "I have a favor to ask."

Alex then crossed his arms at her. "What do you need Liara?"

Liara stammered out, "I-I'm not a soldier. I've spent most of my time in old ruins looking for evidence on the Protheans. I've never really carried a gun before."

Alex smiled warmly at the asari scientist. "Don't worry." "I'll get you what you need. Just follow us."

He then gestured to the three of them to follow him to the Consort Chambers. He activated his omni-tool and activated Tevos's commlink. Tevos are you there?

A female voice then spoke. Alex! It is so good to hear your voice again!

Alex felt a small smile grace his face. Good to hear yours as well, Ambassador! How are things on your end? He heard a chuckle on the other end. Ah! Well, you know galactic politics! Never a dull day!

Alex chuckled to himself. I understand. He then cleared his throat. I am back on the Citadel for a bit. Where can I find a good vendor for asari armor and weapons?

Tevos grinned to herself. Of course! Talk to Nassana Dantilus on the Presidium. She has connections to a dealer who deals exclusively in Armali Council bioamps and omni-tools. Alex nodded. Thank you, Tevos!

Tevos smiled to herself. Of course! Drop by the asari embassy if you can Alex! I'd love to catch up!

Alex smiled to himself. Right. He then disengaged his comms.

Tali blinked as she put her hands on her hips, "Was that Ambassador Tevos again?" He turned to her and nodded, "She knows where to find top-notch equipment for asari commandos. It should be what Liara needs in the field."

Tali nodded as she crossed her arms, her eyes narrowed, "You think she can be trusted?"

Alex nodded, "She's reliable. We need all the help we can get." He then turned his gaze to Liara. "I'll get you the equipment you need Liara! Don't worry!"

Liara stammered out, "T-Thank you!" She felt herself blush a bit. What is this feeling? My heart feels like it's racing.

Consort Chambers, Presidium, Citadel

2183.12.11- 01:05:00 GST

Alex and his squad walked into the Consort Chambers, packed with people and attendants. One of them noticed the Commander, who eagerly ran over to Alex and his squad. "Commander Shepard, the Consort has been expecting you!" She opened her omni-tool and said, "Consort, are you there?"

A female voice spoke out. Yes! What is it?

The attendant then spoke in a chirpy tone. I have Commander Shepard here for you. A voice then spoke out in delight. I see. Please bring him in.

The attendant then nodded and turned towards Shepard. "If you will follow me, Commander!" Alex shrugged and followed her.

Tali felt her jealousy rise at the moment.

Consort Chambers, Presidium, Citadel

2183.12.11- 01:07:00 GST

The attendant led Shepard and his squad up the stairs. The door in front of them opened to reveal a large, spacious room.

Sha'ira sat pensively on one of the couches in the room. Then she noticed the attendant and said, "Thank you, Limaraes. You may go."

The attendant smiled and bowed. "Thank you, ma'am!" She then made her way down the stairs.

Sha'ira glanced at Alex and smiled warmly at him. "Thank you for coming so quickly, Commander!" "I appreciate it greatly!"

Alex steeled his emotions, crossed his arms, and said, "No problem! What'd you need help with?"

The asari flashed a charming smile at him. "I have a problem that needs solving. I have a turian friend. A famous general by the name of Septimus Oraka." She then frowned, "He and I were close at one time." She then hung her head sadly, "However…It seems we are at an impasse. We had an unfortunate argument over private matters, and now he spends his days in Chora's Den spreading lies about me. I need you to convince him to drop his lies."

Alex rested his hands under his chin. "I see. Why come to me about this, though? Why not contact C-Sec?"

Sha'ira then walked up towards him and rested her hand on his. "You are a military man, Alexander. You can appeal to his sense of honor."

She then caressed his cheek with one hand. "If you could do this for me, I'd be very grateful. I promise you will be well compensated for your efforts."

Garrus let out a chuckle. Well damn. Why doesn't that happen to me? I could use an asari's touch. I get lonely.

Tali let out an indignant huff. She was glaring daggers at the Consort. Watch yourself bitch. He's already taken. Hands off. She then crossed her arms.

Liara let out a gasp and covered her mouth. Oh my!

Alex went red in the face. He took in a deep breath and calmed himself. He gently removed her hands from his face. "The offer is appreciated, Sha'ira, but I don't need a reward. I'm happy to aid you." Shai'ra blinked at him, "Oh…I see." He then turned towards his squad. "Alright, form up, squad! Let's be on our way!"

They all stood at attention. "Yes Commander."

Chora's Den, Lower Wards Citadel

2183.12.11-01:20:00 GST

Alex and his three-man squad walked into Chora's Den. Liara began immediately cringing at the sight of her people flaunting and dancing around on poles. She let out a frustrated groan. "Goddess, this is embarrassing! My people are responsible for some of the greatest advancements in Citadel space, yet here we are dancing around like entertainment. This is so demeaning to witness."

Tali and Garrus both sent her a worried look.

Alex gave her a concerned look. "Would you rather wait outside, Liara? I understand if all this is hard to watch."

Liara smiled warmly at the Commander, "No, it's alright. I'm fine. Let's just find this turian general and get out of this disgusting place."

Alex gave her a quick nod. "Don't worry! We won't be here long!" He then spotted the lone turian drinking alone at a table and approached him. "General Septimus."

The elder turian general then narrowed his eyes at the human Spectre. "What do you want, Commander Shepard? I'm busy."

Garrus let out a hearty chuckle as he crossed his arms, "That you are general. I must say that a gentleman's club is quite the place to waste the last of your days."

General Septimus narrowed his eyes at the former C-Sec officer. He then rose from his seat. The turian covertly activated his omni-blade. How dare he! "Garrus Vakarian. The golden boy of Citadel Security. You're one to talk . I know your history. You have a reputation around here for being quite the maverick. You prefer to do things your own way than by going by the book." Garrus then crossed his arms at the man. "At least I still have the will to fight for my people."

Septimus then switched his gaze to the Commander. "Is this the type of soldier you allow in your crew, Commander? A loudmouth who doesn't know when to shut up?"

Alex then let out a frustrated sigh as he rubbed the bridge of his nose, "Garrus, that's enough!"

Garrus begrudgingly nodded, "Yes, sir."

Alex then focused his gaze on Septimus. "I'm here on behalf of Shai'ra. Your lies are hurting her."

Septimus's mandibles twitched in frustration. "Her lies have been hurting me for years. Fair game is fair game. She's the only thing that makes me forget the horrors I've experienced. I explained how I truly felt, and she rejected me outright!" He then slammed his dextro-hands on the table in anger. "Me! Septimus Oraka!"

Alex thought for a moment. I see. He got rejected and is not taking it well. He then took in a deep breath. "I understand now why you have an issue with her. Rejection can be tough for anyone." He continued, "But spreading lies about her doesn't help you." "Look at yourself, General. You are sitting here wallowing in your self-pity, drinking your sorrows away and spreading lies."

Alex then crossed his arms at the man. "The way I see it; you have two choices here. You can sit here and stew in your own pity. Or you can put that drink down, stand up like a man, and recover your dignity. It's your decision."

Septimus then took a good look at himself. His general's uniform was somewhat stained with turian brandy. The turian's mandibles twitched in frustration. He is right! What the hell am I doing! I used to be an honorable soldier! I used to have dignity! I am done feeling sorry for myself! The elder turian then stood straight up and outstretched a dextro-hand. "You're right Commander. This is no place for me. Thank you for clearing my head."

Alex flashed the turian a small smile and shook it. I'm glad he took the hint. "The pleasure is mine General."

Septimus then let out a rueful sigh, "Now I have to explain myself to the Consort. I hope she will forgive me for the things I've done."

Alex put a hand on the man's shoulder. "I'm sure she will forgive you if you come clean with her. She seems very kind and understanding."

Septimus gave the human a nod. "Thank you again, Commander!" He then sighed, "There is something else we must discuss."

Alex raised an eyebrow in confusion. "And that is?"

Septimus then spoke with regret in his tone, "I managed to convince an elcor diplomat named Xeltan that Shai'ra had exposed one of his secrets to the public. As a result, he joined in my smear campaign against her."

The general then pulled out a datapad and handed it to Alex. "This data will help the diplomat understand the truth. I need you to hand it over to him to make things right."

Alex gave Septimus a nod. "Consider it done."

The two men then shook hands. Septimus spoke with a laugh, "You know something Commander Shepard? You would make a fine general one day."

Alex gave the turian male a nod. "Thank you sir."

Septimus then cleared his throat, "Right. I'll be on my way then."

He then walked past Shepard and his squad.

Liara gasped in awe at Alex. Wow. He talked that man down without even a fist raised. She spoke with a tone of admiration. "That was a fascinating exchange Alex. You managed to talk him down without it turning into violence. You even befriended him and gained his trust. That was very kind of you to reason with him.

Alex glanced back at her, "I don't relish fighting unless it is necessary. The galaxy thinks of my species as nothing more than brutish warriors who think for our own." "I'm endeavoring to change that."

Liara gave him a happy nod. She felt herself blush a bit. He really is something.

Garrus also nodded at the Commander. Part idealist. Part soldier. It's an interesting combination.

Tali was smirking at Shepard from under her helmet. Well, he is in a league of his own. It is amazing how open and friendly he is with everyone. I'm a lucky woman.

Alex then cleared his throat. "Alright then!" "Let's get out of here!"

Elcor and Volus Embassy

2183.12.11-01:50:00 GST

Alex and his squad walked into the Elcor embassy.

Calyn, the elcor ambassador noticed the three of them walk in. "Hello Commander Shepard!" "My name is Calyn...the elcor ambassador. I am pleased to invite you to the elcor and volus embassy!"

Tali then eyed the diplomat curiously, "Your speech is much slower than most Council species. Why is that?"

Calyn smiled through his mouth slits, "My people communicate easier through scent and touch. However, we found that most non-elcor species didn't understand the subtle nature of our usual level of communication. We have learned over time to communicate through normal speech." Tali gave the elcor a nod. "I see."

Alex smiled at the elcor and nodded. "Thank you for the warm welcome! I'm here to speak with one of your fellow diplomats. His name is Xeltan."

Calyn raised an eyebrow at the human. "Is that so?" He then called out to Xeltan. "Xeltan you have a visitor."

Xeltan was going over a datapad and finally put it down.

Alex and his squad then approached the elcor diplomat.

Xeltan spoke harshly, "What is it that you need, human? I'm busy!"

Alex gave Xeltan a half-smirk and crossed his arms. "Easy there, Xeltan! I'm not here to cause trouble. I'm just the messenger." He then continued, "A turian general named Septimus Oraka told you that Shai'ra exposed one of your secrets. I'm here to provide proof that he was lying to you."

Xeltan felt a drop of sweat fall down his cheek. "Lies. Consort exposed my secret.I was told this."

Alex then chuckled and pulled out the datapad Septimus gave him. "Read this."

Xeltan eyed the pad curiously and took it from him. He then skimmed through its contents. "Not possible. Turian general found my secret. Blackmailed me. Consort didn't expose secret." "Troubling. If the Turian general found the secret, then others can."

Alex then spoke, "I wouldn't say that. This took a lot of favors for him to find out."

Xeltan spoke as he met the human's gaze, "I-I see. Thank you for showing me this human. I must apologize to the Consort immediately. I hope she forgives me."

Alex then gave the elcor a nod. "I believe she will. Just tell her the truth."

Xeltan gave the human a nod. "Agreed. If you will excuse me human."

Alex gave the elcor a nod. "Best of luck."

Consort Chambers, Presidium, Citadel

2183.12.11-02:15:00 GST

Alex and his squad walked inside the Consort's Chambers. Shai'ra turned to him and smiled warmly, "Alexander…A pleasure to see you again. I just received a note from General Oraka. He's dropped the accusations. Splendid work. I see now how you received your reputation in the Alliance military."

Alex crossed his arms, "I get the job done."

She nodded with a warm smile, "Indeed." She then walked up to him, smiled, and put a hand on his chest., "So…I do believe I owe you. What would you like? I offer many services to my clients. Words of wisdom...comfort...the list is endless."

Alex closed his eyes and sighed, "I assure you your debt to me is paid. I don't need anything."

Tali beamed at Alex under her mask as her heart skipped a beat. It means a lot that he isn't giving in to her charms. He's so loyal. I know it can't be easy to refuse such a beautiful woman. I'll be sure to give him my appreciation later.

Shai'ra pouted and frowned, "A shame. You are quite handsome." She smiled and tilted her head, "If you truly aren't interested…then I will relent for now." She smiled as she took out an artifact and put it in his hand."Well…at least take this."

He blinked at her and the artifact, "What is it?"

She smiled, "I don't know. All I know is that I felt compelled to give it to you." She smiled, "Let me give you one last gift..a gift of words. You have come a long way…from losing your father…to your time in the Alliance military….to studying on Thessia…to returning to duty. You have a hard destiny ahead. You will face many trials, but I believe you will overcome your obstacles."

He nodded with a small smile, "Thank you Shi'ara. I'm grateful for your words."

She then smiled, "Good. I must leave you now. I have more clients to attend to."

He then nodded, "Of course. Be well." He then turned to his squad, "Alright, squad! On me!"

They all saluted. Tali just let out the sigh of relief she had been holding in. Finally, my suit was about to burst from jealousy! "Right behind you, Commander!"

Presidium, Embassy Lounge, The Citadel

Alexander stopped in front of an asari woman. "Excuse me? Are you Nassana Dantius?"

The blue-skinned asari turned to him with a curious look, "Yes. I am. What can I do for-" She blinked and smirked, "Commander Shepard? The new human Spectre? I'm honored! To what do I owe the pleasure?"

Alex crossed his arms at her, "I have an asari in my crew. She has no military equipment. I heard from Councilor Tevos you're the woman to see…"

Nassana smirked, "Ah yes. She said you'd come by." She then started working on her datapad, "I've already taken the liberty to send the equipment to the Normandy. No need for baggage checks. Pays to have the Asari Councilor in your corner, huh?"

Alex nodded, "Suppose it does."

She winked at him, "Can I ask for a favor?"

Alexander crossed his arms at her, keeping his tone professional, "Depends on what it is."

She smirked and rested her face on her hands, "I have a delicate problem I need help with. My sister has gone missing. Pirates attacked her ship, demanding a ransom for her release."

Alex blinked at her, "Why not pay the ransom?"

Nassana sighed and glared at him, "Technically…I did, but they still haven't released her." She ran her hands all over her face, "I'm in deep shit Shepard. If my superiors found out my sister was kidnapped and that I was forced to pay a ransom…my career as a diplomat is fucked."

He nodded and crossed his arms, "What do you need from me, Nassana?"

She smirked as she began inputting coordinates into her datapad. "I'm sending these coordinates to your personal comm. It's simple. You go there, kill those bastards, get my sister back, and I will have a hefty sum of credits for you."

He nodded with crossed arms, "Killing pirates, huh? It would be my pleasure."

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More to come!