Collective Rebirth
ESKK: A new chapter and another Loyalty mission. Let's get things started folks.
(Start Castle of Lions Allura)
Allura sat in her room staring into the mirror as she calmed her breathing. After returning from a meeting with Kolivan they were now on their way to the Citadel to bring the Galra to meet with the Council. Using the Mass Relay, the Normandy Team had gone on ahead to prepare for their arrival. The Galra's facility had proven to lack an Eezo Drive and thus could not use the Relay Network.
This required the use of the Wormhole and John had to make sure it was safe for them to do so. It was for a political envoy so that should give them breathing room. As Allura sat by her dressed she soon heard the door slide open and from there she saw Kalvin enter the room.
"Oh, Kalvin welcome back." Allura greeted as she was happy to see her boyfriend/lover had returned.
"Hey Allura." Kalvin greeted as Kosmo padded in and took his place on the dog bed. But as Kalvin walked by, he noticed that Allura seemed distressed so with a sigh he put down his towel and walked over to Allura. "Is everything alright, Lu?" Kalvin asked worried for Allura.
Allura hummed before she spoke. "I'm fine, Kalvin it's just..." Allura said but then Kalvin sighed to this. "Kalvin this is the Galra we're bringing them to the Citadel." Allura said as she was worried about this outcome.
"Allura it's been 50,000 years." Kalvin said as he saw where the issue was. "And right now, they have the most proof of the Reapers if not the only piece of proof." Kalvin said knowing that they needed the Galra to testify of the Reapers existence. "We need them, and they need us." Kalvin said but Allura knew this already.
"I know, Kalvin but..." Allura said and thus she sighed and looked away.
Kalvin gently took Allura's check and had her look towards him. "Allura... not all Galra are villains you once considered the Galra close allies." Kalvin said as he looked to Allura. "This might be the chance to return to those days." Kalvin said which Allura knew Kalvin made an excellent point.
"I know I understand and right now I'm going to have to plead the Galra's case to the Citadel." Allura said as she was worried that the Galra may end up on the receiving end of a Genophage like the Kogan's were. A part of Allura the part that had lost her whole world because of the Galra hoped that would happen and it sickened Allura to have such thoughts. But the leader in her knew that the Galra had also experienced a genocide, so she sympathized with them. This may turn out to be a long meeting for all parties involved.
"We'll be with you every step of the way." Kalvin said putting a comforting arm around Allura's shoulders.
"Thank you, luv." Allura responded happy that Kalvin was by her side. Who knows one day he may make an excellent king.
"Anytime Lu." Kalvin said glad he could help Allura even if was only in a small way.
(Scene Break Citadel Altean Embassy)
Outside the Embassy the Galra Ark ship arrived after the Normandy crew had gone ahead to alert the Council of their arrival. The Council had doubts about it but had regardless agreed to the meeting. The Galra seemed to be trying to make peaceful contact and were hoping they would not take Allura's tales to heart. Yet the only other Galra the Council had interacted with had been Lotor and he may have not left a good impression on them. Then again Lotor was only half-Galra so that may also play a role.
The Galra ship had already began the process of awakening those in deep sleep making ample sure to only awaken those that won't cause issues. It was a new Galaxy they had awoken to, and they needed to put their best foot forward. At the moment Kolivan stood with a larger Galra who wore the Blade of Marmora uniform mask and all as Kolivan was surrounded by the Paladins. Many Altean's in the Embassy were seen actively avoiding Kolivan and for good reason as well. Many of the Alteans grew up on stories of the Galra's genocide upon them viewing them as the equivalent to the boogeyman with Zarkon as the role of Satan.
Kolivan understood their fear and did not hold it against them. The Council agreement to meet with Kolivan was a great boon to them and hopefully they can settle this without cause for any extreme measures or worse give the Salarians cause to try sterilizing the Galra. Allura was currently in her royal regalia seeing that this meeting required her to be a politician instead of a Paladin at the moment. Kalvin was also there in his Paladin gear seeing as he had Galra blood and felt he needed to be a part of this.
Kolivan was looking out the window as Coran was deep in talks with Anderson. "Kolivan are you ok?" Kalvin asked as he approached Kolivan from behind.
"Yes." Kolivan responded calmly to the Paladin. "So much has changed that I find myself unsure." Kolivan said making it clear that things were different. "I had hoped that it would have been Krolia who awoken us." Kolivan said which Kalvin sighed to this.
"I'm sorry I never got to meet her; I assume you two were close." Kalvin said as he looked to Kolivan.
"She was a formidable warrior and a loyal friend." Kolivan said before he let out a tired sigh. "She saw her mission through to the end she will be honored for this." Kolivan said which Kalvin nodded. "I do wish to meet with your father the man who had married Krolia's daughter and fathered her grandson." Kolivan said looking to Kalvin who scratched his head a bit.
"Yeah, my father is going to be a bit busy." Kalvin said as he thought this was a bad time for his father to on a mission. "Duty calls." Kalvin said with a shrug and in turn Kolivan nodded in understanding.
"Very well I cannot fault him for this." Kolivan said before Coran stepped in.
"Sorry to disturb this discussion but the Council is ready to meet with us." Coran said as Allura stood in her royal regalia once more.
"Alright." Kalvin said as he knew his father had his own mission, whatever it may be. All Kalvin knew was that apparently Kasumi asked for Ashley and John specifically and thus the Normandy went off to their destination. Good news is that Anderson hooked the team up with now armor for the ship and thus they can take time to get it installed onto the Castle of Lions.
(Scene Break Shepard's team Boltzmann)
John and Ashley rode in a sky car dressed in one of their expensive outfits. Ashley had to pick hers up from the Citadel for this little job that John recruited her for. They had taken the Kodiak to a skycar rental on the planet Boltzmann and were at the moment making their way to their mission sight. The fact this was a heist did not allude Ashley one bit.
Kasumi, who was in the backseat, was giving them a lastminute brief of the mission and what it entailed. The key points did not escape either of them, this was a high-class society event where the who is who of this planet, a couple dozen of people working in shady, and less shady business, was supposed to meet. Shepard, under the alias of Solomon Gunn, was there to represent the group of mercs he was running, a new and upcoming company in a field, where many tried, and just as many failed, looking to open up some business opportunities.
"And I'm glad to be accompanied by my stunning partner in crime, Teresa Clarke," John smirked towards Ashley, before focusing on driving again.
"I've given both of you quite the reputation as merc leaders, including articles in Badass Weekly." Kasumi said from her spot in the back seat where she was sitting relaxed. The name didn't ring a bell with Ashley, but admittedly, a magazine like that wasn't her usual lecture. She wondered, however, about the extent of Kasumi's preparations. They must have taken a lot of time, and resources, since faking multiple articles wasn't an easy feat.
"Kasumi, how long exactly have you been planning this?" Ashley asked the question that was preying on her mind ever since Kasumi approached them about this job. Ashley wasn't a criminal but as far as she saw it there was more at work here.
"Oh, not that long." Kasumi said waving the question off. "Basically, since I've convinced myself that Shep is the right person to ask." Kasumi added in a matter-of-fact tone.
"And when was that?" John asked with a raised brow to the thief on Kalvin's ship.
"Uh, a couple months ago," she stated matter-of-factly once more which got Ashley's attention. Ashley quickly calculated the timeline. If she was correct that might have meant that Shepard had left a few things out about his involvement with Cerberus.
But before she could have mentioned it, Shepard brought up a plot hole. "How so?" John asked as that didn't make sense. "That must have been before Kalvin recruited you one the Citadel." John said which reminded Ashley that Kalvin was in charge of Kasumi.
"And after Cerberus had approached me," Kasumi added which began to put the pieces together. "I knew that you were one of the only few, who could help me with this the other being Kalvin." Kasumi said as she would have used Leon, but that guy would have got caught from the get-go.
So that answered Ashleys questions, and the rest of the short flight was spent in silence. Maybe, so Ashley thought everything through once more, if Kasumi had planned this really for that long, they would be able to make it as stealthy as planned. It would be a change, but not an unwelcome one. Plus, with Kalvin and his team focused on the whole Galra thing they can be done by the time the Citadel makes their call.
(Meanwhile the Citadel Council Chambers)
The Citadel Council Chambers had seen many historic events in its time. Kolivan and his second stood before the Council seeing the four races standing above them. "I'm not entirely sure if this is rude of me... but I will offer thanks for meeting with us at this time." Kolivan said opening the talk with the Council.
"We accept your gratitude despite the unanticipated development." Tavos said to the Galra acting as the representative to his people.
"Yes, based on Princess Allura's testimonies the Galra were thought to be extinct." Sparatus said to the Galra before him.
"We thought the same of the Alteans, I am grateful both assumptions were incorrect." Kolivan said to the Council. He had been made aware of how they were by Kalvin and Allura. Of to the side the other Paladins observed the proceedings with rapt attention.
"Be that as it may the tales Allura had informed us do not paint your species in a favorable light." Valern added as he did not wish to deal with a Krogan rebellion from the Galra.
"A light that I am afraid to say was earned due to the actions of our former Emperor Zarkon." Kolivan said knowing because of Zarkon their position in the Galaxy could very well be at risk.
"Easy let's give him a chance even Allura vouches for them." Anderson said as he knew that John would not vouch for the Galra without reason.
"Thank you, human councilor Anderson, but I suspect you all want the full story do you not of how my people and I survived for this long?" Kolivan said knowing this was what was on everyone's mind.
"If you would please." Tevos said and in turn Kolivan got down to it.
"Very well." Kolivan said and then got down to it. "Zarkon began a war against the Alteans and destroyed their home planet as you may be well aware." Kolivan began to the Council. "For a time, we were given orders to conquer and expand, to bring order the Emperor had claimed Victory or Death." Kolivan said explaining the tale to them. "But many of us had doubts, planets that did not submit were destroyed and harvested dry of resources ships that escape near deaths were destroyed to weed out the weak this was not an Empire that could sustain itself nor be allowed to flourish." Kolivan said as the Council heard him out. "Thus, a splinter group was formed, the Blades of Marmora our entire mission was to subvert the Empire and find a way to defeat Zarkon." Kolivan said as with Zarkon being dead their mission was no longer valid.
"However, something happened that changed everything." Kolivan began and thus came the big picture.
"What happened?" Sparatus asked and in turn Kolivan looked to them.
"The Reapers attacked." Kolivan said much to the council's shock.
"This again?!" Sparatus said showing he did not believe the Reapers were real. "Whatever ploy Shepard has brought you in on." Sparatus began but Kolivan's partner stepped up.
"Hold your tongue the Reapers had taken everything from us!" the larger Galra snapped but Kolivan cut in on that.
"Ulaz stand down." Kolivan ordered his voice stern and imposing. "My apologies for my second in commands outburst it will not happen again." Kolivan said and thus Tavos sighed in relief.
"See to it that it does not." Tevos said before Kolivan continued.
"You may not believe us, but we saw them we saw planets stripped dry of any and all resources being systematically destroyed in the Reapers harvest." Kolivan said detailing the truth to the Council. "Without Voltron we had no hope of defeating them our only chance was to wait them out." Kolivan said which got the Council's attention.
"Without proof of the Reapers we cannot." Valern began but Kolivan then activated his holo-projector and showed the Council his proof. It was images of Galra ships firing upon vessels that bore a striking resemblance to Sovereign, the Reapers. The Council was shocked as they saw the Reapers tearing apart the Galra vessels. Once the image did its part Kolivan turned it off before speaking again.
"As you can see, the Reapers are real, and their return is inevitable." Kolivan said before Tevos focused on the tale.
"We will hold off on this subject for a moment and focus on your tale." Tevos said her voice shaken by the proof that was just displayed to them.
"Of course." Kolivan said as he got back to the tale. "The Reapers tore through our ships all attempts to fight them were in vain and the Blades of Marmora were exposed." Kolivan said before he made a tired sigh. "When Zarkon's witch Haggar had vanished during the invasion he came to us with a bargain a bargain we shared with him." Kolivan said detailing what happened. "We would not win this war and Zarkon would not be the Emperor who saw to his empires extinction so uniting our resources we devised a plan to save the Galra the vessel we came here upon was the result." Kolivan said and in turn the explanation was given. "We would hide out in deep stasis and awaken to prepare the next cycle for the Reapers that cycle is now." Kolivan said finishing the tale.
"It's fortunate that Voltron had been discovered because now we have a fighting chance." Kolivan said finishing his tale.
"This is a great deal to discuss." Sparatus said as he sounded unnerved.
"Yes, perhaps a brief recess is in order." Tevos said and thus they agreed on this.
"Very well." Allura said willing to take a short break.
(Back with John and Ashley)
Once they had arrived, Shepard was quick to jump out of the skycar, and paced towards her side. He opened the door and offered her his hand. Ashley took it, and immediately afterwards tucked her arm into John's again.
Usually, she didn't like this sort of behavior, she didn't need this fake chivalry some men like to put up to make themselves look better. But funnily enough, John was the one exception from whom she had accepted it without hesitation when they had found some time after having defeated Saren to go out on an actual date. And she could tell that he had always meant it in a genuine way. This time, too, even if their relationship was anything but clear right now.
Behind her, she felt how Kasumi exited the car. She had already activated the tactical cloak, since she would provide them with intel about the place, while John and Ashley would play their roles. The thief was supposed to remain hidden for the entirety of the party, since they had considered it too risky, in case Hock would have been able to connect her to Keiji.
Ashley figured this was why John accepted this mission. The fact it was something personal for Kasumi was already playing on his empathy. Plus, with the Voltron team focused on the Galra at the moment John didn't want to give Kalvin more to worry about.
At the platform, one of Hock's guards was the first to greet them, and after Shepard had told the young man that there was a gift for the host on the truck that had been accompanying him, he went to retrieve it.
Ashley turned around to watch him put the effigy of Saren on a small pallet truck. It was a fake present, a trojan horse, since Kasumi had arranged to put the trio's weapons and armors into the statue's pedestal. They would grab their gear once they were able to get into the vault.
John and Ashley didn't need to walk far from the skycar platform to the mansion's main entrance. The host was already waiting to greet his guests, and from his look, Ashley could tell that he used the time to check both of them out in a not very stealthy fashion.
"Mister Gunn, Miss Clarke," Donovan Hock greeted them once they were close enough, though his focus remained on Ashley. "It's a pleasure to meet you." Donovan greeted the pair before him. He didn't offer his hand, though, neither to Ashley, nor to John.
"It's a pleasure to be here," Shepard replied playing the role he was given for this mission. "We've heard many great things about your parties." John said to the man before him.
"Oh, you won't be disappointed." Hock said to the SPECTRE before turning his attention elsewhere. "If you don't mind, I have other guests to take care off. I'm sure we will have the opportunity to talk at a later time." He said before he asked one of his guards to guide them to the party. With that done the two guests, and their invisible companion, followed the man into the mansion.
After they had walked through the entrance corridor, a gentle whistle escaped John's lips, and Ashley could see why. The main room was impressive. A large water basin as centerpiece, while to the left and right there was an art collection. The room continued further back, where Hock's private rooms, and a balcony were located. And finally, a set of stairs led to the upper floor. Cordons indicated that they were off limits for the guests.
Not that they had business there anyway, as everything they needed to get into the vault, including a small security office, was supposed to be found here. John excused himself for a minute, and Ashley took the opportunity to assess the situation. As far as she could see, the crowd was human only, as Kasumi had expected, with the exception of that one aging dude, who didn't need one, but two Asari to bolster his ego.
Her skipper soon returned, handed her a drink, and after exchanging a few words, went away again to pretend to mingle with some of the guests, while Kasumi was finding a way to get into the vault.
In the meantime, Ashley stood there in an alcove near the bar, holding the bluish drink, upon which she had barely nipped. From the smell, it was a Serrice Ice Brandy, the same sort that Doctor Chakwas used to have in her cache, and which she had shared with the crew after the victory over Saren. Expensive, and admittedly not something Ashley liked drinking much. It wasn't bad at all, but she couldn't help but think of the price tag. The SNCO in her shuddered at the thought of spending so much on a bottle of booze.
Donovan Hock, on the other hand, he clearly thought differently. The host of the party must have wanted to impress his guests, as this, and some expensive looking wine, were the only beverages on the waiters' tablets right now. She was sure that Hock intended to keep this high standard up as the evening continued. But then, if everything went according to plan, she wouldn't be here anymore. So, she would make the most of it and took another sip.
Meanwhile Ashley listened in on the conversations going around her. Voltron had become a common topic no doubt because the Paladins have made many operations for these criminal types exceptionally difficult. Ashley listened in, but it wasn't exactly the kind of topic, where she could contribute. She never enjoyed this sort of party anyway, where she had to pretend to be part of such a presumptuous society, especially not, when criminals surrounded her. No, her place of comfort was somewhere else. Throw her into a room with a group of Marines, and they could drink and joke all night. Here, she felt awkward, and she somewhat envied John for his ability to blend in.
But as she saw her dress in the reflection of a nearby glass panel, she allowed herself to think of another scenario, one that was way more feasible. Admittedly, she liked the dress Kasumi had picked out. Not only did it make her look stunning, but it was also made to be danced in. Maybe, she could have enjoyed herself more if John and she had been attending a party like this for private reasons… not on a mission, and definitely not in the company of some of the most dangerous people in the cluster. Ashley let out a silent chuckle as she thought that she would have definitely tried to get him on a dance floor, should the opportunity arise. It didn't matter, if he could dance or not, she would just enjoy spending time with Shepard in a fashion they had never done before.
Those shoes, however, she couldn't wait to kick those off her feet once the mission would have progressed to the point, where they would change into their armors. As nice as they looked, they just weren't comfortable.
Not much longer, she reminded herself that the second act of the mission was coming closer.
As she was keeping an eye on Shepard, who had just reentered the main room, she switched her location to the alcove on the other side of the room, where she couldn't help but overhear a conversation between a man, and a woman, which aroused her interest.
"– surprised to have seen him at all," the man had said. "But then he dared to show up with this floozie. Can you imagine they met at a bar, while she served drinks to this rowdy bunch of horn dogs, he likes to surround himself now? I mean, what does she even want to study? Planetary cartography?"
"Planetary geology," the woman corrected him, albeit with a lot of disgust in her voice. "Hardly something, where she can make a fortune. Apparently, a career her mother had followed, before she got herself pregnant by some Alliance soldier." The Woman said as Ashley began to put pieces together.
"Seems to run in the family," the man scoffed again as it served to anger Ashley. "And now that she has seen, where he comes from, she must think that she hit the jackpot. I bet; she'll be pregnant within a few months." He said making accusations towards the woman. "She's hardly the proper company for a Berkovich."
"Wait a few weeks, until Thomas will grow tired of her, and toss her aside like the little plaything she is for him right now." The woman took a nip from her glass, before she continued. "He will come to his senses. I'll make sure of it." She said confident that her son will see reason.
The longer the conversation went on, the less doubts Ashley had, who these two were. Thomas' parents. Sarah and he had told her about them, and how he was somewhat estranged to them. And Sarah had told her, how bad their visit had gone.
It continued to be difficult for Ashley to imagine someone not having close contact with relatives, because the Williams family was such a tight bunch. But in this case, she could easily see why Thomas didn't keep contact, and why he and Sarah had preferred to cut the visit short. It was clear to her that those folks were a handful, and Ashley hadn't even exchanged a single word with them. Let alone the fact that his parents had managed to be on this event's guest list. It told her everything she needed to know about them.
She had heard enough and closed the gap to them. When she was almost there, she pretended to stumble over the carpet, in the process spilling her glass on Mister Berkovich, who let out a groan, as the liquid had been poured all over his expensive looking tuxedo.
"Oh! Ooh! I'm so sorry," she pretended to apologize, and deliberately slurred her speech. "Here, let me take care of this." Ashley said playing the role she was given as well.
She saw the initial anger written in his face, which immediately vanished once he laid his eyes on her. In her mind, Ashley just had to compare his behavior, the way he ogled her right now, to the way he had just depicted every naval academy grad as horn dog. Alright, regarding the latter, he might not have been that far off, but his current behavior told her everything she needed to know about this person. She was sure, hadn't he been with his wife, he would have made the one or other lewd suggestion.
"It's alright, sweetheart," the man began as he instead tried to be suave. "Just leave me your contact details, and we can arrange a payment… for the cleaning service." He said his tone was clearly showing he was trying to flirt with her.
That he had just called her sweetheart annoyed her, but she decided to grin and bear it, still pretending like she had had a little bit too much to drink.
She spotted Shepard and decided that she needed to leave this situation. She had done what she had come here for anyway. It might have been petty, and maybe even a tad too childish, but she let nobody call her baby sister a floozie and get away with it.
"Sure thing. Better send me the receipt soon, before I'm back on the hunt." Ashley said which got the man's attention.
"Wait, you're a mercenary?" Mrs. Berkovich asked surprised over who her husband was flirting with.
"Sure? Haven't you read Badass Weekly?" Ashley asked with a faux surprised. "I'm part of an upcoming company, offering everything from guard services, bounty hunting, right up to contract hits, for everything from high to low profile targets," Ashley said, and let her view linger on the guy in front of her, as she spoke about low profile targets. She saw that it made him gulp, so her exaggerated statement hadn't failed its intention.
"No worries, my husband can afford to pay the cleaners all on his own," the woman said, glancing daggers at Mister Berkovich for borderline flirting in her presence. "And he will do exactly that. So please leave us be, Miss!" She said and with that Ashley knew it was time for her to take her leave.
Without wasting any more time, Ashley spun around, and walked over to Shepard, as if nothing ever happened. "What was that about?" Shepard whispered to Ashley once they regrouped.
"Uh, nothing," Ashley said as she coyly smiled. "Someone bumped into me, and I spilled a little of my drink onto this gentleman over there." Ashley lied which John saw right through it, not like she was trying to hide it.
"Funny. To me it looked like you made extra sure to hit him with your drink," Shepard remarked as he saw where this had gone.
"But Mister Gunn, why would I do that?" Ashley asked, still keeping the innocent facade up. "This man has no business with Teresa Clarke. Good for him, actually. I hear she is quite quick with her trigger finger if someone gets in her way." Ashley said as John saw what this was before sighing.
"Alright, you don't have to tell me." Shepard said as he conceded defeat. "Come on now, we need to keep going. Kasumi is looking for a way into Hock's private quarters. And we need a voice sample of our host. I figured–" John began which Ashley saw.
"That I should make use of my charm," Ashley said with an annoyed sigh. She had hoped that she wouldn't need to spend more time next to Hock than absolutely necessary.
"Well, I might be wrong, but he looked a bit enamored with you." John said focusing on the mission.
"Alright," she sighed, not entirely thrilled by having to deal with yet another one of those guys. "What's the status of our mission? Have we progressed?" Ashley asked focusing on the mission.
"The plan is simple, while I work on busting into the Security Office you get Hocks vocal prints this will allow us to hit two birds with one stone at the same time." John said as Ashley saw what this was, divide and conquer. If everyone executes their roles exactly, they can be done with this mission before anyone realizes what was going on.
"Alright I'll flirt you break into security." Ashley said and thus they once more split up to carry out their tasks.
(Meanwhile back at the Citadel)
The Meeting was back in session as the Council were still unnerved about what Kolivan had revealed to them. The Reapers were real and were preparing for their return. With the evidence Kolivan provided they can't deny the truth likely because every Galra could confirm it. The only one who wasn't unnerved was Anderson but that was because he knew the truth about the Reapers from the beginning.
"Thank you for your patience, we shall continue this meeting," Tevos said as Kolivan nodded and said, "I understand that knowing that the reapers are real, it's not always an easy process to accept, but knowing about them and not accepting it won't do any good to anyone, as the Galra empire may had warships and weapons that could take over worlds with ease did not help us in the slightest against them, so I will offer an a peace treaty between the Citadel and the Galra so both side would face the upcoming threat of the reapers together."
"We thank you for such an invitation, but is it not more beneficial of joining with the Citadel instead of sighing a peace treaty?" Valern said as knowing the Galra would have more to gain by joining with the Citadel than remaining independent, which is also a surprise that they didn't offer to join the citadel completely as Kolivan said to the councilors, "If only if it was that simple but there are many reason why the Galra cannot join at this moment for the fact I understand that the Alteans had already join as well due to Princess Allura willingness to do everything she can for her people, but the back blood between our races cannot be wash away so easily which would in fact cause more problem than solutions."
When Kolivan was told of the surviving Altean race had join the citadel mostly to punish Lotor for his crimes against her people which he did not fault her for, as well as repay a debt that Lotor had cause for the Alteans with Princess Allura taking on such a debt to protect her people isn't an easy thing but she held up on her promises and in return the Council had given the Alteans a new home for them, which he is Glad to hear that the Alteans had a new home planet.
"The other reason that among the Galra that still sleep are loyalists to Zarkon and the old ways of the Galra still, with one amongst them that would still carry out Zarkon's original will being Sendak, and he is not to agree of peace talks nor mercy," Kolivan explain to the council which surprise many to hear this as Sparatus said, "If you wish for Galra to live on, why are such members among your people still exist?"
"Time was of the essence. We did not have such pleasures of choosing which of the Galra would join us. We were to gather as many as we could to wait out to the next cycle, as if we did then many more members of the blade of Marmora would still be with us, but that does not mean we cannot convert them to the new ways, as in short it would take time for us to have our kind to build up our numbers once again and not cause an uprising," Kolivan explain which make sense, when the reapers were attacking, time was against Galra and could not do proper selection of who will survive as cruel it was as well the council could not fault the Kolivan for this as Anderson understood the situation as being a man of action he would understand this most and knew this was not an easy call to make as he said to them, "If the Galra wishes to sign a peace treaty with the citadel, what would you give for it?"
Kolivan look to the human Councilor and understood why he is asking. Judging by the look on his face, he was not asking out of greed or malice but see what they would do to ensure the Galra's survival as a species as Kolivan said, "Anything that Galra can afford to give. Blueprint to warships and weapons that were effective against the Reapers, technology that was lost to time itself, and if needed the very ship that keep the Galra safe for all this time to be use as a life pod for anyone to wait out the reapers in this cycle once it restore to all of its power and resources."
This was very important to say as Kolivan was willing to give up the Galra Ark ship to show he is serious about this peace treaty as the Council look among themselves to this as it would seem that the citadel would get a lot out of this treaty if they went through with it, but they knew they cannot just accept such things even if they could, but that wasn't the only issue they had at the moment as the 3 main councilors didn't know to take his word for it or not, so they needed another option on the matter if they can trust the Galra or not as Tevos said, "We can talk about the matter of the peace treaty soon, but there is one thing we must know."
Turning to Allura as Tevos soon asked her, "Princess Allura, as it stand you know what the Galra can do, and what they have done to your people 50,000 years ago, but tell us why you stand with them at this time?"
"Because If I like it or not… they too are survivors of a near extinction event 50,000 years ago, as the Galra may have destroy my planet and killed many of my people… they in return had face a similar event with the reapers, as I may not forgive them fully of what they did, but… Emperor Zarkon had made a sacrifice of giving up his life for mine, while it may not fully make up for what he had done… it shows that even those who were black hearted have a the choice to change for the better, knowing that not all Galra are monsters that I thought they were as during my time after my awaken I have found out one of my own paladins hold Galra blood within him," Allura said spill out the secret which made many people question of what she meant as then Kalvin step forth showing that it was he that hold Galra blood within him.
"Princess… are you saying that the black paladin, Commander Shepard's son is part Galra?" Tevos question as it was Kalvin who spoken up saying, "What she says is true councilors. I am technically a quarter Galra, but their blood run thick within my veins with evident that will point to it, but instead of coming from me, I think it's better said from one that had attacked the Citadel, a recorded moment during my and Lotor fight on Eden Prime."
Without missing a beat as Kalvin presented the recorded moment between him and Lotor after made by the Black lion, thanks to Tali the fight was recorded from the black lion to the Citadel, but the transmission ended after the Alteans surrendered as Kalvin presented the moment as he and Lotor were fighting against one another which made decent entertainment for everyone watching.
"Die Paladin! DIE!" Lotor roared as Kalvin roared in pain when the blade got to his cheek leaving a large burn on it that would no doubt scar, With Allura watches this with anger in her eyes no doubt still hating Lotor after what he did to her people, which was supposed to be their people, but after what Lotor did the Altean can no longer be his people anymore.
At this moment as Kalvin watch the moment, he knew his Galra blood was awaking as he had tap into the Galra rage that lead him to overpowered Lotor.
During the recording as it shows Lotor drew back and was about to strike again but Kalvin drew his mother's dagger and turned it into a sword which he then used to strike at Lotor. Lotor was caught off guard by this as Kalvin swung the weapon wildly giving Lotor no room to counter.
This went on for a bit as Kalvin continued his assault until Lotor was knocked on his back and pinned by Kalvin. Kalvin pointed his sword down on Lotor who glared back at Kalvin. "I was mistaken." Lotor said as he was catching his breath before going on saying, "You don't fight like a Galra... that blade you have, Galra blood flowing through your veins."
With that as everyone gasp at such a thing before Kalvin ended the recording and Presented his Mother's dagger as he said, "I never knew it at first until we meet Lotor and he show us a bit of Galra culture, one of which include the Blade of Marmora pointing out to my own bloodline to the Galra themselves, as it seem my grandmother, was a pure blooded Galra, who had awaken several years prior and meet my grandfather before she gave birth to my mother that everyone knows her today as the Butcher of Torfan, Jane Kogane."
This not only stock a lot of people but gasp as well as not many people knew who's Kalvin's mother and John Shepard's former wife was. But when you consider this it was all making sense to them now, and how Jane Kogane became the person that she was, it was all thanks to her Galra's bloodline, which seem to scare the Counselors a bit with Anderson was surprise by this but also impressed that Kalvin would be brave enough to announce such a thing with Allura steps up to speak once again as she said, "Kalvin had told me soon after he found out, fearing that if he hid the truth would drive us apart if keep as a secret, which hearing this did surprise me at first."
She went silent for a moment, as she been thinking this over before reaching her hand out to Kalvin as they join hands together showing to everyone that she trust him completely as she went on saying, "But I thought it over and came to one thing. He is nothing like the Galra that I once knew, as he is kind and caring for not only for his friends but to me and everyone else, he has meet, as with this, if a Galra can love a person and be love in return, it not a matter of their blood that make them monsters but of their actions. And if a group of Galra wishes for a change and call out for Peace, it shows a bright future for not only for them, but for everyone, as maybe one day the Altean and Galra may live in peace once more with one step at a time."
Everything was silent at first until there was a sound of clapping from somewhere and soon enough its spread out that everyone that was watching this meeting go down, a sigh that there was hope, as Kolivan look to Princess Allura and could not help but smile a bit and judging by how they were still holding hand give him an idea that the young black paladin had won the princess's heart but choose not to say anything as the counselor wave their hand for everyone to be silent for a moment, which they did giving them room to speak as Sparatus said, "It seem there has been misunderstandings, but I suppose that is to be expected, but what you say is true… then we can give the Galra a chance to prove themselves."
"But for now, we must take another brief recess to talk over our final decision," Valern said as no doubt everything that was said and done is a bit overwhelming for them. It was clearly becoming somewhat of a mixed emotional roller coaster as with that the councilors left and went to their chambers to talk of what to do for the Galra and what they give in exchange for the peace treaty as Kalvin look to Allura and said, "Well that seem to gone well."
"I know… and thank you for coming here to help me, even though I made you reveal your lineage," Allura said as she felt a bit guilty of doing so. Politics was a game of knives and shadows with a small bit of gambling. Allura took a gamble and still felt guilty, but thankfully Kalvin didn't mind it seem as he shrug a bit and he said, "I would have happened sooner or later, but I may as well announce it on my terms and no one else's. I'm hoping, this will help us in the future."
(Meanwhile in the councilors room)
As the main three councilors of the citadel had come together for their final thoughts of their choice for the peace treaty for the Galra as Tevos said, "Then we are all in agreement. For this treaty to happen we must give the Galra something in return for their cooperation and technology blueprints."
"There has been some worlds that has not produce any life of its own, I suppose we can hand over one of these to them," Valern said as Sparatus does not like it, there not much any other choice but this as he said, "I suppose so."
"Then I must speak with the other councilors of this choice," Tevos said before she left, leaving the remaining two by themselves as they began to plot something as Sparatus said, "I cannot believe we are to give these Galra a world to live on."
"What choice do we have, if these reapers are coming, we need every advantage we can get," Valern said as Sparatus look to him and said, "And if they decided to turn on us, what then? The Krogans were one threat that had been dealt with ease, surely, we can deal with Galra same way before they can strike at us?"
"If we ever could." Valern said as he knew that certain parties have been pushing for a cure for the Genophage. "After what happen with the Krogan everyone had looked closely at our actions, back when infected the Krogan with the Genophage, it wasn't only meet with gratitude, but many were also against it." Valern said knowing that the Genophage had been a very controversial subject especially due to how long ago it was used. "Even my people were to make a new Genophage to use against the Galra, this action would no doubt cause everyone to question our actions and our position on the council," Valern said with worry as if the council would take such a drastic action once more may put them in a bad light.
"Our species would lose their positions on the Council." Sparatus said as he knew Valern had every reason to be worried.
"Not only that even if we managed to create one if we use it without justified cause then we will certainly be called to question." Valern said knowing that for the time being they had to wait for the Galra to make the first move. "But perhaps we can use the Zarkon Loyalists to our advantage." Valern said as it was a risky play however if the Galra are a threat they needed a means to take them out ASAP.
"If all else fails the Mech Armors may be our only option." Sparatus said as they already have working prototypes on development.
"They may be our only hope." Valern said knowing they needed to get those things in working Order now rather than later.
(Back on Boltzmann the party)
John was by the security door waiting for Ashley to do her part. Kasumi was by the vault ready to receive the information from said room. And Ashley was ready to... seduce their host. "I'm in position." John informed quietly knowing he had to be discreet when opening this door.
"Same." Ashley responded from her position nearby.
"All good to go." Kasumi added from the Vault.
"Alright you all know what to do." John said and in turn they got to work.
Hock wasn't hard to find at all, he was standing in the center of the room, jumping from one conversation to the next, as people kept addressing him. Ashley, too, walked over, trying to commence a conversation, this time, without the intention to spill a drink on her dialogue partner.
"Miss Clarke. What can I do for you?" Hock asked almost immediately as she had gotten close enough. "I hope you are enjoying the party." Hock said with a somewhat welcoming tone in his voice.
"Oh, yes. Very," Ashley did her best to hide the fact that this wasn't her exact vision of joy. "You have an amazing art gallery," Ashley said, and pointed at the little exhibit that had been put up in the main room.
She found the displayed riches lavish, but admittedly, it fit to the host, who apparently didn't take half-measures. And she took him as someone, who was fishing for compliments.
"These?" Hock laughed. "These are nothing. On any other day, I like to introduce select, knowledgeable guests to the more special parts in my vault." Hock said boasting his collection. "But today, as you can imagine, I have other duties to attend to as a host." He said gesturing to the party around them. "But you didn't come here to talk about me sense of art, or did you?" He asked almost with a flirting tone to Ashley.
"No. Actually, that kind of modern art is lost on me." Ashley said playing her role well. "I'm a fan of the classics, though." Ashley said keeping up the act.
"Ah, yes. I can see that." Hock said with a smirk on his face. While Hock continued replying, rambling on about his particular sense of art, and how he had always been a connoisseur. However, while Ashley was working on the DNA scan John was doing his own thing.
(Over with John Security Room)
John managed to hack the security door and was already making his way to the main room. The Guards would likely be a major issue for him thankfully he was a crack shot. Moving in John fired his sidearm after bypassing the second door and took out the guards with ease. Ashley was hard at work getting the voice key from Hock.
Poor guys they were doing their jobs, but they had a mission after all. "I have an idea see what you can find." Kasumi said as she went to the nearby terminal.
Heading on through John found a data pad which he began to read through. The good news was that the password was on its which meant they handled one issue. "Got something?" Kasumi asked when she noted John put the data pad down.
"The password is Peruggia." John said which Kasumi smirked at this information.
"That's the name of the man who stole the Mona Lisa. Nice." Kasumi said as being a thief she knew that guy's history.
"How is Ashley doing for the Voice Recognition?" John asked as Kasumi checked her Omni-Tool for that.
"Just about... good." Kasumi said and thus got to work. "And with that we now have Hocks voice and password." Kasumi said which meant there was only two things left, the laser grid and Hocks DNA.
"Alright." John said before calling up Ashley. "Ashley we're good on the voice." John said before Kasumi cut in.
"Ok here is the next part we got a laser grid I'm sending you a scan of the electromagnetic frequency to find the power junctions and take them out." Kasumi said informing Ashley of her next task. "Once you find it let me know and I'll take it out while John finds a way into Hocks private rooms." Kasumi said which Ashley got the gist.
"Sounds simple enough." Ashley said and got to work on it no doubt being discreate.
"I'll go regroup with her you find us a way in." Kasumi said which John nodded to this.
"I'm on it." John said before leaving the room while Kasumi used her cloak.
(Later back in the Vault)
John had found what Kasumi sent him to find, a way into the private rooms. The Security had a blind spot by the balcony it was their ticket in. It was a simple way in and with it their ticket to their goal. At the same time Ashley was able to find what they needed to find which was the power junction to take out the laser grid. This allowed them to shut down the grid and for Kasumi to regroup with John before they snuck into the private rooms.
In front of the vault, they met up with Kasumi. The master thief did a quick scan to check if their measures had done the job. It had all worked in their favor. Now, all they needed to do was getting into the vault, grab what they had come here for, and get out.
John had already activated the hidden mechanism in the statue's pedestal. A drawer opened, it was filled with two sets of armors, and their usual weapons. John and Ashley had started to change out of their formal clothing, stripping down to their underwear. While Kasumi stuffed the tuxedo and the gown in a duffle bag, the other two went into separate corners of the room to put their armors on.
It wasn't that they needed privacy, as they were used to the lack of which that came with being a Marine. Still, something instinctively made them get out of each other's way. Ashley had just zipped up her under suit when she felt Shepard's eyes on her. She quickly turned her head around, and found him, as he had just ended gazing on her. And now with a blush adorning his face.
"Eyes up front, skipper," Ashley demanded but if she was being honest, it was more of a giggle actually.
"Sorry," He mumbled while looking back the other way.
From the way he sounded, Ashley could tell that he meant it. She wasn't angry at him. They had seen each other wearing way less than undergarments. It was just symbolic of their complicated relationship right now, and just another sign that they needed to have a talk.
For now, they put on the rest of their armors in silence. When they were done, Kasumi had already opened the vault, and they were ready to go. So, with that they boarded the Elevator and began the descent deep into Hocks lair.
(Later down in the Vault)
Once the trio stepped out of the Elevator, they found themselves stepping into the massive, private vault of Donovan Hock. "So, this is Hocks Vault." Kasumi said taking a glance around. "Very Nice." She praised feeling her sticky fingers twitching.
"So how do you plan to find this Greybox?" Ashley asked looking to Kasumi.
"I've had a scanner running that'll lead us right to it since we stepped off the elevator," Kasumi replied, bringing up her omni-tool to show off said scanner. "And I can tell we're getting close." Kasumi said clearly thinking ahead which Ashley can appreciate. With that the two soldiers let Kasumi and her scanner lead on from here, slowly moving through the vault and the various items in it that were on display like museum exhibits, the only sound to be heard at that point being the scanner as it did its work.
Eventually the group came to a stop before a pedestal that had a pair of guns atop it, but Kasumi did not seem to pay much mind to the weapons, as her attention was more focused on the small, grey object that was sitting in front of them. From where Ashley was standing, it did not seem like much, but she could tell from how rigid Kasumi had become the minute she laid eyes on the object that it must have been what they were here for.
"Oh my god. There it is," Kasumi softly gasped, confirming John's silent suspicion of it. The master thief then activated her omni-tool once again so that she could disable any security that was keeping her late partner's Greybox from being taken carelessly.
However, the groups victory was short lived with the sound of a new voice. "Don't bother Miss Goto, it's code-locked," Hock's voice suddenly said as his face suddenly appeared before them in a massive holographic image, bringing Kasumi's efforts to a stand-still for the moment.
"I always hated this part of missions the unexpected twist." Ashley said recalling the number of times where their missions were never straight forward.
"I had a feeling that was you at the door, and I knew if that was really you, you'd get through anyway," Hock continued.
"You know me; I don't like to disappoint," Kasumi quipped in response to the man who killed her lover.
Hock just brushed Kasumi's witty reply off and continued to act like he was holding all the cards at the moment. "I need what's in your Greybox, Kasumi. You know I'm willing to kill you for it." Hock began unaware of Ashley making her way to one of the vases. "I'll admit your skills are impressive; you got into my vault like I'd left it open, but you're still going to die, screaming, just like…" Hock began only for the sound of a gun going off curtesy of Ashley.
All eyes went to Ashley as she smirked at Hock. "Oops." Ashley said with a cocky smirk on her face.
"Nooooo!" Hock yelled clearly angry with what had just happened.
"Well, that shut him up." Kasumi said with a smirk on her face. But right at the same moment her omni-tool beeped to signify that any remaining security measures protecting Keiji's Greybox had just been disabled a fact that did not sit well with Hock at all.
"KILL THEM," the criminal businessman shouted as his guards rushed into the room, prompting both Spider-Man and Kasumi to run for cover before the bullets could start flying. Alarms began blaring as guards moved into the scene. As Ashley and John opened fire Kasumi was checking something.
"I'm checking the blueprints of the place right now," Kasumi revealed as she quickly tapped through several different readouts on her omni-tool. After another second or so, Kasumi found what she was looking for and stated, "There's a landing pad to the east. Let's take out these guys and get out of here." Kasumi said knowing this was their way out.
Working fast John and Ashley took out the enemy opposition with a combination of guns and John's Biotics. Once that was done and the guards were dealt with John made the call. "Joker, bring the shuttle in. Now!" John ordered and in turn they proceeded down the door the guards came in through to find the exit.
(Meanwhile back at the Citadel)
The councilors had come back from their break, and it seem came to a decision as Allura greeted them as she said, "Welcome back councilors, have you made a decision yet?"
"We have, and we had decided to sign a peace treaty with the Galra but with much to discuss on the peace treaty itself, it shall be done," Tevos said as with that with Kolivan keep his neutral look on his face, but he was feeling happy a bit that the Galra are given a chance to live in peace within the new age, as Tevos went on saying, "And also we have also decided of a gift if you are willingly to accept it, as you have offer us blue print and technology of the Galra correct?"
"That is correct. They are yours if you wish," Kolivan said as Tevos nodded and said, "Then for this, we the council of the Citadel would like to offer the Galra a new home world."
This surprise not only him but others as well, with the Paladin as they were surprise that the council would do this to a former enemy of the Alteans, but given the circumstances that Allura is willing to make peace with the Galra despite her 50,000 year old grudge, but understandable that Kalvin is also a quarter Galra but he has not shown any ill intent to her or anyone and has willingly risk his life for the Citadel and most of the known galaxy, as Allura said, it not their blood that make them monsters but their actions, and such the council is willingly to give the Galra a chance but also test them as well as Tevos said, "But given said world maybe livable, it's not without its problem as the world we offer is mostly barren and resources has not been establish. We will supply the Galra with resources to help turn this world into one where life can thrive, once more and the tool to help build once more, but after that any additional help will be limited and you must learn how to thrive on your own… will this be acceptable with you and the Galra?"
"It shall be, the Galra are strong in their own ways, and this will help rebuild and remake the Galra into anew," Kolivan said as he knew why the councilors are giving the Galra this new world, a test for them, but it shall not only be for just the council to test the Galra but for to test themselves and hope for the best that they too can change in a new era.
Needless to say, many let out a sigh of relief that the Council was agreeing to the treaty. Of course, it would have to be drafted and signed but that was just formality. It would not be long but there was also the concern of the Zarkon loyalists to consider. How long it would be before they did something reckless. There was also the concern over what the Council would do if the Galra did something... unfavorable. The Genophage was made to curve the Krogan's breeding habits it had left the Krogan in a state of disrepair.
Looking over Kalvin noted Kolivan looking at him with a stern look. Kalvin knew that he shared the same mindset as he did and knew why the Council was doing this. As Ashley said many in the Galaxy would only look out for their own species and the Council was chief amongst them. Even Anderson, who was on the Council, knew this as fact yet did not hold it against the Council members.
(Later at the Altean Embassy)
"Well, that went well." Leon said sitting on a chair with his feet plopped up and his hands behind his head. Leon had a cocky smirk on his face as he saw they just gained a huge win this day.
"We didn't win anything." Allura said leaning over the railings looking outside the window of the Embassy.
"Wait what?" Hector asked with a raised brow at what he heard.
"The Council was testing us." Kolivan said as he stood in the room looking out the window. "They still are." Kolivan said turning around to face the group.
"He's right." Penny said getting the groups attention. With how similar the Krogan and Galra are in terms of their views on combat, it's no surprise that the Council is extremely cautious over the Galra possibly rebelling and returning to their old ways." Penny said seeing that the council was likely going to keep a close eye on the Galra.
"And let's not forget the several Alteans who would likely try something stupid out of fear of the Galra possibly finishing what Zarkon started with them." Kalvin said seeing the issue in all of this. "If we're not careful we may end up with a Galra rebellion or worse." Kalvin said as he had informed Kolivan of the Genophage warning them of what the Council might do if they feel threatened.
"Baring that comment of my own people I do have to agree." Allura said knowing Kalvin was right on all those points. "So, for now we can't afford to force their hand." Allura said suspecting that the Council while focused on preparing for the Reapers will also keep close tabs on the Galra. Thankfully with Liara as the Shadow Broker if the Salarians manage to make a Galra focused Genophage the Paladins can find and neutralize it before it can be deployed.
"So, what do we do?" Hector asked with worry over the outcome of this.
"First we'll need to ensure the Galra can secure themselves as a people first." Kolivan said as he had an idea. "I've done some research and I noted how the Batarians seem to support slavery." Kolivan said which Kalvin raised a brow to this.
"Yes..." Kalvin said and in turn Coran saw what Kolivan was thinking.
"Wait are you saying you plan to attack the Batarians?!" Coran asked but Kolivan chuckled.
"No that would turn the Batarians into victims... I'm saying that the Galra should return to our roots from a time before Voltron." Kolivan said and in turn Allura got the idea.
"Your, going to let the Batarians attack you just to prove your place?" Allura said more then asked because on paper it seems thought out.
"The Batarians have views similar to Zarkon's regime after he lost his way." Kolivan said as he looked to the group. "If our colony is placed close enough to the Traverse then I doubt that the Batarians would resist attacking us." Kolivan said as it made sense on that regard. He was right the Batarians would not resist and because of that superiority in themselves Skyllian Blitz took place. Of course, they never seem to learn seeing as they keep getting trounced on by the Paladins every time, they mess with the Quarians. Seriously you'd think those four eyed jerks would have some common sense in that thing they call a brain.
"I don't like it." Leon admitted scratching his head a bit.
"Neither do I but trust me Politics is a whole different field of battle." Allura said making the group aware of how difficult politics was. Allura despite being a Paladins was a politician as well and she knew the delicate moves and ruthlessness needed to succeed in that arena. "In retrospect when my father had to deal with the Protheans I actually have a newfound respect for what he had to go through." Allura said recalling what her father was like.
"Princess." Kolivan said as he began to approach Allura. Allura looked towards him and for a moment was wary but then calmed when she saw him out one hand over his chest and kneel to her. "Thank you for giving my people this chance to redeem ourselves." Kolivan said kneeling to Allura knowing full well that Galra had long since wronged the Alteans more than any other species.
"Those who seek forgiveness must prove themselves for it." Allura began but then smiled a bit. "But the act of seeking it is a good start to receiving it." Allura said and in turn Kolivan nodded and rose thankful to the Princess.
"Vrepit Sa." Kolivan said as he knew the process would be a long one. But in the end if all were willing then the scars of the past may finally heal.
(Scene Break with John's Team)
If the team of three had possessed any delusions that led them to believe getting out of Hock's vault would have been easier than getting in was, they were all quickly dispelled the minute that they walked out of the door to the landing pad, and not just because of the fact that Hock found out they were in the vault before Kasumi had retrieved Keiji's Greybox from where it rested or because of how Hock sent a number of mercs into the vault to kill them. What should have been a straight shot to the landing pad was quickly turned into a round-about obstacle course when Hock sealed the main exit closed in an attempt to trap them inside, forcing the two to take an alternate route that ultimately led them into conflict with more of Hock's men.
It took a bit of doing fighting enemies and at least one Loki mech but they had made it out to the landing pad. With nothing but the various crates, cranes, and pipes ahead of them, John did not need to be an expert to know that there was a likely chance that this would end up becoming a battlefield that both sides could use to their advantage somehow. He was soon proven right when a Gunship surrounded by a powerful shield flew in with a certain someone behind the wheel. Neither of them needed a warning sense to know that they needed to duck into cover when the ship started firing its machine gun at them, nor did they need to think hard in order to figure out who was flying the ship.
"You could've done this the easy way, Goto. Allow me to show you the hard way," Hock's voice openly mocked over the gunship's speakers, and he was soon firing at them again.
As he continued the barrage of bullets, John, Ashley, and Kasumi were both forced to find cover anywhere that they could. "Well, this complicates things!" Ashley called out from her spot of cover.
"Glad to see nothing's changed." John said as this was their basic run of the mill time on the Normandy.
"No, it has not." Ashley said seeing where this was going. "But we could use those lions about now." Ashley said wishing they had at least one of the Voltron Lions here to help. This was a sentiment that was shared by both John and Kasumi.
But oddly enough the group was able to avoid most if not all of Hock's shots which pointed to one fact about him: Donovan Hock was not a very good shot with that gunship's weapons. Knowing this only made it a little easier to avoid being hit by the weapons dealer's fire, because there was no way that they were going to be able to deal any damage to the gunship while its kinetic shield was still active.
"Ok he's a crap shot, but we need get him out of the way for the shuttle to land." Ashley said seeing they needed an advantage now.
"Any ideas?" John asked from his cover hoping either Ashley or Kasumi had something cooking.
Thankfully, Kasumi had one, but she needed help. "I got one, but I need a clear path to the Gunship." Kasumi reported and in turn John nodded.
"Alright Ashley help give Kasumi cover!" John ordered while reloading is gun.
"Right!" Ashley responded and in turn, after making sure she had a full clip, the two soldiers got moving. Taking out the mercs who worked for the weapons dealer the Alliance pair were not taking prisoners at the moment. At the same time Kasumi saw she had the opening she needed and got moving to take out this guy.
Kasumi began to make a mad climb up the nearby pipes. With a few well-timed jumps and climbing skills Kasumi was soon perched on top of the pipe that was highest off the ground, and she only paused for a moment before breaking out into a run until she was at the end of the pipe, where she leapt into the air. When she landed again, it was on top of Hock's gunship, and the Japanese kleptomaniac did not hesitate to access her omni-tool and start hacking into the ship's systems to shut down the shield surrounding it. Hock must have realized what she was doing, because he was soon trying to shake Kasumi off, but the master thief's grip was firm and kept her where she was until she eventually flipped herself over to where she would be standing just over the cockpit where her foe could see her. Kasumi merely gave a mock salute in response to Hock's glare as he tried in vain to reestablish his gunship's shields, and she then flipped off the gunship and into the air before landing in crouch next to John and Ashley.
"Shield's down." Kasumi said as she got back up. "Let's tear that thing apart," Kasumi reported with a bit of a growl.
"Yeah, only one guy gets to undress me with his eyes!" Ashley said ready to fight causing John to go wide eyed a bit at that one.
From that point on, Kasumi was playing decoy and avoiding Hock's fire while John and Ashley moved through several spots of cover to fire at Hocks ship. Occasionally, Kasumi would use her cloak to further hide herself until she was in a position to throw a grenade at Hock's ship, rendering even more damage to the vessel in addition to what it had already incurred. The trio continued their assault using every advantage they had until finally, Hock's ship went up in a brilliant explosion, no doubt taking its pilot with it, and all that was left to deal with were a pair of mercs who immediately ran off the minute that the trio turned their attention to them. They were not stupid enough to take on the three fighters that had just taken out their former boss's gunship on their own.
"Well, that one pain in the ass dealt with." Ashley said as she holstered her gun as they heard the Kodiak making its arrival on the scene.
Kasumi smirked a bit as she had something to say. "So... am I to assume that the only guy allowed to undress you with his eyes is right here?" Kasumi teased causing Ashley to glare at her before chuckling.
"I got three sisters, Goto." Ashley began with a smirk on her face. "And also had to raise a teenager." Ashley added as they made their way to their transport. "You're going to have to try a lot harder than that." Ashley said which made Kasumi smirked to this.
"Well, I always wanted sisters to annoy." Kasumi said as John chuckled to seeing those two get along.
Once the Kodiak closed its doors the trio entered before Kasumi made one last quip. "So, anything on Sven?" Kasumi asked causing John to roll his eyes to that one. It was going to be a long trip back to the Citadel so Kasumi and Ashley can regroup with the Castle of Lions.
(Scene break Lotor Sincline Hanger)
The Sincline was split back into its three fliers as it was being loaded up into another ship. Lotor was fortunate his ship had been secured before the Alliance could find it. He had been keeping tabs on the recent event and to think the Galra had survived this whole time in stasis like he and his traitor generals did. This might prove useful to him as he oversaw the Sincline Fliers being loaded. His primary objective was on Tuchanka where he had the understanding that a Salarian scientist was hidden away running experiments on the Genophage.
Lotor needed new generals after all and while Kala is formidable, she was just one. And with the resurgent Galra Lotor can use one aspect from his father to sway them to his side... their blind loyalty to the Galra creed: Victory or Death. Lotor smirked as he then made his way into the ship, his time of hiding was at an end.
(TBC)
ESKK: Here we go another Loyalty Mission has been completed. Now we're going to do one last round of Loyalty Missions before going to the Collector Ship. I hope you all leave a review and support the TV-Tropes Page and until Chapter 14 is published I will again say, ja-ne.