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Mass Effect: Imperial Glory	By : gigaren47 Category: +M through R > Mass Effect Views: 33185 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: I do not own Mass Effect or any properties thereof, I am not making money off of these writings.

Chapter List
- 14
- 15
- 16
I do not own Mass Effect or any properties thereof, I am not making money off of these writings.

Imperial Glory Chapter Fourteen: Virmire.

'these indicate normal thoughts'
This means an AI construct communicating

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INF Normandy, Arcturus System, April 17th 0915 Hours.

"Relay cleared. Clearance received from Arcturus." Pressly announced.

"Take us in." John ordered.

John leaned back, hooking himself into the ships sensors. Arcturus had obviously suffered from the attack, there were still scattered debris fields being combed over by service shuttles.

He was brought back by a low, "Wow." From Tali.

Opening his eyes, he saw what had brought the exclamation. The Galaxy Map was showing local space, including the fleet that had just hit the system. A full Imperial Fleet, 3 SuperDreadnoughts , 2 SuperCarriers, 120 Battlecruisers, 120 Fighter Carriers, 480 Cruisers, 480 Frigates, 600 Gunboats. Once they reached their posting Imperial Marine and Auxilia ships would be assigned to the Fleet, adding to it's numbers by a decent margin.

'The SuperDreadnought in the lead is the 'Justice'. The others are the 'Retribution' and the 'Righteous Fury', that's the newly activated Imperial Twelfth Fleet, commanded by Fleet Admiral Harris Taylor.' Wilco informed him.

"That's the new Imperial Twelfth Fleet. The SuperDreadnoughts are the 'Justice', 'Retribution', and the 'Righteous Fury'." John said.

"I never fail to get a sense of awe when I see an Imperial Fleet. Those are the new Stalwart-Class INSD's aren't they?" Tali asked.

"Yes, fresh from the Ares Shipyards. Carrying 4 Heavy Gauss Cannons instead of 3, double the amount of Strike Craft, and almost tripling the amount of secondary weapons. Part of the 'Phase-Three' Armament program." John answered.

Joker's voice filled the bridge, "On final approach, docking in 4."

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Arcturus Station, Secure Briefing Room. 1015 Hours.

John and his group, Tali, Natalya, Nihlus, and Wrex passed by several Household Guards on the way to the Briefing room.

Entering the room, he saw the Empress standing near the back, talking animatedly with Khan Jeris, and an Asari he recognized, Baroness Asalia, flanked by Captain Wolfsblood and a female Household Guard, in decorated armor.

John reflected for a moment. A few months before he had been a well respected and decorated Noble in the Imperial Marine Corps, now he was standing with members of the Imperial Court as an equal, before the Empress herself. 'Destiny is a wonderful thing.' He thought to himself.

"My Empress." He greeted as they walked up.

"Spectre Shepard. Spectre Nihlus." Sativia responded.

"Empress." Nihlus replied, crossing his right arm and bowing.

"I have recalled you here for several reasons." The Empress began, "Spectre Nihlus, you are to stay here on Arcturus. All will become clear soon."

"By your order my Liege." Nihlus replied.

Khan Jeris stepped forward, "Battlemaster Wrex, you are to return to your duties with the Black Watch."

"Now wait just a damned minute. I'm not having my squad broke apart without being told what the hell is going on."
It wasn't clear who was more shocked at John's outburst, the members of the Imperial Court or John himself.

The Empress smiled, amused, "Ah Cousin, showing a dedication and protectiveness toward your friends and retainers, as you should. I think if you were any other officer I would still be forced to have you flogged though. Be assured, Spectre Nihlus will return to your service after a time. Battlemaster Wrex has his own destiny to fulfill. Allow him to do so."

John looked over at Wrex, nodding his head slightly. The Battlemaster bowed his head, then walked over to Khan Jeris.

"Interesting." Sativia said simply, before continuing, "Sit. We have much to talk about. Spectre Nihlus, Guard Grayson will show you where you are to go."

"Lord Nihlus, please follow me." The Household Guard said. Nihlus nodded, following her out of the room.

'Grayson, I thought I recognized her. Head of the Empress's personal guards, strongest Biotic ever known.' John thought, taking a seat at the center table.

'Last reports were she was on Titan training Black Squads. It seems she has finished.' Wilco added.

Lady Asalia began, "The rioting on Terra has been ended, with very little loss of life. The agitators have been rounded up and executed. Thankfully extreme measures were unnecessary."

"Would have been easier just to kill all of them." Khan Jeris stated.

"If we Terrans did what was easy, we would not be having this conversation. Now, Cousin, I know you must be tired of being recalled so often, so this shall be the last time. The Geth border has been reinforced, and all intelligence says that they have pulled their forces back deep into their own territory. They have given up, just as the Council did. In the space over Quaria, through the sacrifice of the Turians we proved that the Reapers are vulnerable. The Empire is almost at full wartime mobilization. All is proceeding as it should. The last piece of this grand design is up to you." The Empress finished.

"I will play my part. I think I understand my role now." John stated.

"Good, then we are done here. Go forth with your mission Spectre." The Empress ordered.

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INF Normandy, Dock 72, Arcturus Station. 1215 Hours.

"Last shipment has been received Commander, we are fully supplied." Pressly announced.

John nodded, "Good, prepare to disembark."

"Commander, incoming transmission, Black clearance." Normandy announced.

John was already moving, "I'll take it in the Comm room Normandy."

As he entered the Comm room the vidscreen was already on, showing Baroness Asalia.

"Asalia." He greeted.

"John. I'm sorry that I did not get the chance to greet you properly earlier, the Empress has been preoccupied of late." Asalia replied.

John nodded, "I understand. The current situation weighs heavily on me, and I sincerely doubt my own troubles are even a portion of what Empress Sativia goes through daily."

"You are very wise John. I have a lead for you concerning Saren." Asalia stated.

"Don't keep me in suspense." John said.

"Apparently the Salarians have been sending several of their infiltration regiments into the Traverse and Terminus to help track down Saren. They have lost contact with one such team, located on Virmire, in the Sentry Omega Cluster." Asalia explained.

"They did this without approval?" John asked.

"Yes. We were aware of them doing so, but felt it was not necessary to stop them. After losing contact with Virmire however, they came clean about the situation. Their last report said they were trying to confirm that Virmire was home to one of Saren's installations. That is all we know." Asalia finished.

"I see. Asalia, this will be very helpful. Once again you've pointed me in the right direction, I fear I will soon owe you a great debt." John said.

Asalia smiled, "You owe me nothing John. I serve. I also wanted to pass along congratulations, the Empress heard about your nuptials."

"Thank you, and thank the Empress. Goodbye Lady Asalia." He replied.

"We shall speak again John. Good hunting." Asalia finished as the channel closed.

John turned, walking back onto the bridge, "X/O, plot and set a course for Virmire, as quickly and quietly as possible."

"Course set Commander. Transit time will be just over 7 days, Virmire is rather remote." Pressly replied.

"You have the Bridge X/O." John stated.

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Officer's Mess, INF Normandy. April 20th, 1330 Hours.

As Tali walked into the Mess she saw it was almost empty, but she spotted Natalya sitting at one of the tables.

"Tali." She greeted warmly.

"Natalya, late lunch?" Tali responded.

Natalya nodded, "Yes, you?"

"The same. Adams and I were checking the calibration readings on the Tantalus Core, he thinks we can get 20% more energy out of it. He finally told me to go eat while he finished. I swear I don't think he leaves Engineering some days." Tali replied, picking up a meal and sitting down with Natalya.

"I see. Jenkins and I were going over the new munitions we received, I lost track of time myself." Natalya explained.

They sat in companionable silence for the rest of the meal.

Finally Tali finished, rising and getting another cup of coffee.

"Tali, may I ask you something?" Natalya said, as Tali sat back down.

"Of course, why couldn't you?" Tali replied, confused.

Natalya looked strange for a moment, "I wanted to ask about John, he seems, different the past while."

"Ah." Tali said knowingly, "You mean he seems much more brash, confident and lascivious?"

Natalya looked down for a moment, "More or less."

"He's always been like that, headstrong and arrogant. He was implanted and augmented a great deal to be reclassed as a 'Bastion', that seriously modifies hormone and brain patterns temporarily. He's normalizing slowly, which is why it seems to you he's different. Isn't it wonderful though?" Tali explained.

"What do you mean exactly?" Natalya asked.

Tali's voice was low as she continued, "It's the best part of being with a Human male. They are completely arrogant, ludicrously aggressive, ridiculously lustful, and they can justify and back up every single part."

Tali could tell her words had the proper effect as Natalya's eyes darkened.

"I think I understand." The Batarian girl replied.

"Good, I need to get back to Engineering, I'm excited to see if we can actually squeeze more energy out of the core. I'll see you tonight." Tali finished with a grin.

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Commander's Quarters, April 20th, 2030 Hours.

As soon as John entered his quarters he was pounced on, Natalya pulling him over to the bed, unclasping his uniform as they went.

As she slid his jacket off he commented, "Feisty tonight darling, what's up?"

"If it's not you I must be doing this wrong." Natalya replied.

John grinned, "I would reiterate and ask what's gotten in to you, but I'm sure you'd have another snappy comeback. Come on, I need a shower."

As soon as they got into the stall Natalya was on her knees, taking John's shaft in her hand she leaned in, running her tongue around the head. After a moment of this she engulfed him in her warm mouth, eliciting a groan from him.

He slid his hands down to her head, "Good girl." He managed to get out as she bobbed. Natalya moaned around his shaft at hearing those words, sucking harder.One of her hands was between her thighs, gently rubbing her wet slit. She brought the other up, gently massaging his sack.

The feeling of her talented ministrations proved too much, "Oh Natalya, here comes your reward." He said, then with a cry filled her mouth with his seed, as she struggled to swallow, making sure not to waste a drop.

John slumped back against the wall, "Thanks darling, I needed that."

"I know." Natalya said, rising, "Let's clean up, then we can have some more fun when Tali gets here."

He grinned, "Sounds like a plan."

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INF Normandy. Hoc System, April 24th, 0940 Hours.

"Relay cleared, no contacts. 25 minutes from Virmire." Pressly announced.

"Try to raise the Salarians, quietly." John ordered.

"No response to any tight band signals." Normandy informed.

"Wonderful, we're going in blind. Dare I hope we're detecting anything on the surface from this far out?" John asked.

"Negative." Normandy replied.

"Might as well plan for the worst." He said, rising, "Tali, Natalya, let's go suit up. Normandy, have Liara meet us in the Armory."

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The comm panel beeped just as John finished filling his pack, "Commander, we've identified what we assume is the Salarian Camp. However the surrounding area has several Geth AA positions." Pressly informed.

"Is there vehicle access?" John asked.

"Yes sir, should I find a landing zone?" Pressly replied.

"Yes, we'll drop Mako One and the Hammerhead." John ordered.

"Affirmative Commander." Pressly said.

John turned, "Jenkins, you ready?"

"Yes sir. Shiala can operate the Hammerhead with me." Jenkins replied.

"Good, let's get moving." John ordered.

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Mako One, Virmire.

"We are down. All systems good, Jenkins?" John asked over the comm.

"We're good Commander. Want me to take the lead?" Jenkins replied.

"Sounds good. Head on." John ordered, switching frequencies, "Good drop Joker. Pressly, take care of her while I'm down here."

"Roger Commander, we'll be in comm range." Pressly responded.

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Virmire was a temperate world. This part of the continent was tropical, a contrast of rocky crags and white sand beaches. Large crab-like creatures were swarming over the low parts.

'Probably mating season for them.' John thought to himself.

"This is a beautiful world. Why hasn't it been colonized yet?" Liara asked.

"We're way out of Imperial Territory. Patrols would be a week away easily, and this world doesn't have any natural resources worth putting a dedicated defense fleet here. Not even enough tracts of arable land to make good homesteads." John explained.

"Three days closer to Imperial Territory and this would make a hell of a resort world." Natalya commented from the Driver's seat.

John nodded, "Now there is an idea. If we ever start expanding this way I'll remember to stick a claim on this world."

"Maybe we can worry about that after we take the head of the genocidal maniac we came here for?" Tali suggested from the Gunner's position.

As John opened his mouth to retort his comm activated, "First AA position ahead sir." Jenkins informed.

"You know what to do Jenkins, take out that AA gun." John ordered.

Jenkins didn't bother acknowledging, moving the hovertank into the open, locking onto the huge Anti-Air guns, he fired the plasma mortar at the Geth position, the projectile arcing and impacting the guns with massive force, destroying them and everything else within 30 feet of them.

The Geth that were left began firing at the tank, their pulse and M/A rounds being absorbed or deflected by the heavy shielding. Two shots from the main cannon silenced the enemy fire.

Mako One rolled up, John looking at the carnage, "Fine shooting Jenkins. We've got two more positions, roll out."

The vehicles moved past the destroyed fortifications, moving into a section of winding cliffs. They continued along like this for several miles, finally reaching the second position.

The Hammerhead burst around a corner, coming under fire by several Geth walkers. The automated plasma repeaters returned fire, while Jenkins locked in on the guns for another mortar.

Mako One moved forward, John looking over the position. This one was larger and better made than the last one, a pair of gates, and a covered level above, sandwiched between two cliffs. Several Geth were on the walkway, with another two groups on the ground, rocket troopers.

"Take out those.. oh, carry on." He said as Tali opened with the laser repeater, the Geth exploding one by one.

The Hammerhead launched a mortar, the plasma projectile hitting the AA gun with great force, demolishing it and a good radius around it.

"That looks like all the Geth, good shooting everyone. Tali, take out the gates and let's keep moving." John ordered.

A shot from the Mako's cannon destroyed the gate, allowing both vehicles to pass.

The next passage was situated right against the ocean, cliffs on the left, and open sea to the right. There were lightning strikes off-shore, a large electrical storm brewing. More of the strange crab creatures were strewn across the area, the hovertank and IFV making several of the slower ones ex-crab-like creatures.

"Hmm, red meat. I wonder what they taste like?" John mused.

"Multiple contacts ahead, a company of walkers around that bend." Tali informed.

"You reading them Jenkins?" John asked.

"On it sir." Jenkins replied.

The Hammerhead picked up speed, bursting into the bivouac where the walkers were sequestered, blazing away with repeaters and cannon. The Mako was second, taking down a pair of walkers quickly.

"Area clear. 400 yards to the final AA gun." Tali stated.

"Making the shot... and it is good." Jenkins said over the comm, the final AA gun destroyed. A second mortar round cleared out the remaining enemies, destroying the gate in the process.

"That's the end of them. Head on to the camp." John ordered.

There were no signs of life the next 8 miles inland. They eventually reached an open area, structures and defense positions set up, hidden well.

Jenkins gunned the Hammerhead, the hovertank reaching the encampment first, and he and Shiala dismounted. A group of Salarian operators was already gathered near the vehicle.

Jenkins jumped off the turret to the ground, Shiala right behind him, "Howdy. I assume y'all are the ones we're supposed to rescue?"

One of the Salarians, probably the leader, stepped forward, "What are you doing? Your reckless tactics have jeopardized this entire operation!"

Jenkins stared at the fool, "We're here to save your asses bug-eye. Pipe down with the insults, the Commander will be just as soon to kill you himself as to listen to it."

A Salarian came from one of the tents, "Commander Rentola, don't berate an Imperial. Who are you Marine?"

"Gunnery Sergeant Jenkins, INF Normandy, special assignment to Commander Shepard, Imperial Spectre." Jenkins replied.

The Mako reached the encampment then, John and his squad dismounting. They walked up to where Jenkins was talking with a Salarian, "You the one in charge here?" He asked.

The Salarian came to attention, "Captain Kirrahe, 3rd Infiltration Regiment STG, Salarian Home Guard. Commander Shepard, Commando Nar Rayya, it is an honor to meet two of the people responsible for wiping out the Lystheni. Things are finally looking up."

"The last report we received said you were trying to confirm that Saren had a base here, what have you found?" John asked.

"Saren definitely has a base here. From what we have uncovered, he is breeding an army of Krogan." Kirrahe answered.

"That explains the Krogan we've fought in his service. Let me guess, fast growing, vat born, mindless?" John replied.

"Yes. His base is reinforced and holds several areas set up as growth pools. We've intercepted several signals referencing him, but we are not sure if Saren is actually here or not." Kirrahe explained.

"This might be our only chance to get intel on Saren's operations, do you have a plan to get in?" John asked.

"Of sorts. We can launch a diversionary attack on the compound, we've identified several areas where a small team could sneak into the facility during that. We've converted the drive core of our ship to a 40 kiloton fusion device, after infiltration we can get the bomb inside and set it for detonation. We retrieve the data you need, set the bomb, and then escape, in theory." Kirrahe replied.

"We could do it the easy way, drop directly into the compound raid the computers, setting the bomb at the same time." John said.

"The base has a pair of heavy AA guns. No ship would be able to get close enough to land. How did you penetrate the AA cover?" Kirrahe asked.

John thought about it for a moment, "The Normandy is a stealth ship, as long as we don't get within visual range the AA guns aren't a threat. Change of plans then, we infiltrate the facility and disable the AA guns, then land the Normandy and the bomb. Exfiltrate from there."

"That is a sound plan Commander." Kirrahe stated.

John hit his comm, "Pressly, bring the Normandy down here, land at the Salarian encampment." He ordered.

"Affirmative Commander, on the way." Pressly replied.

"Let's get the plan set down while we're waiting Captain, I'm sure you have the facility mapped out." John stated.

"Of course, this way Commander." Kirrahe replied.

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Salarian Camp, Virmire, 1600 Hours.

Both of John's downsized squads, Captain Kirrahe, and Commander Rentola were packed into the small building that held the maps and reconnaissance data.

"Let's go over this one more time from the top." John requested.

Captain Kirrahe nodded, "I'll split my men into three teams, I'll personally lead one, and a pair of your troopers will be attached to each of the other two, you will lead your squad. My men will launch a frontal assault on the compound as a diversion while you sneak in the back. The only ways to the compound from this area are small trails, inaccessible by vehicles, so we will go infantry only. We will attempt to breach the compound while your team searches for any data. Once you disable the AA guns, the Normandy will land inside the compound, and we will hopefully meet there. We offload and set the bomb, then we escape before it goes off."

"What are the teams?" John asked.

"Your squad is 'Shadow'. Our teams are Mannovai, Aegohr, and Jaeto, the first settlements on our three oldest colonies. It will remind my men of what they are fighting for today." Kirrahe answered.

"Blood, honor, and glory isn't good enough?" Alenko asked.

John sent him a pointed look, "Alenko, Williams, you're both with Aegohr. Jenkins, Shiala, Jaeto."

"Yes sir." Jenkins acknowledged.

"Affirmative Commander." Alenko replied.

"I must speak to my men, make any preparations you need. We begin the attack shortly." Kirrahe said, walking outside and calling his men to assembly.

John motioned for his squads to follow, and he walked out to listen to Kirrahe.

There were maybe 30 Salarians assembled on the beach. Kirrahe looked over them. "You all know the mission, and what is at stake.I have come to trust each of you with my life -- but I have also heard murmurs of discontent. I share your concerns. We are trained for espionage; we would be legends, but the records are sealed. Glory in battle is not our way. Think of our heroes; the Silent Step, who defeated a nation with a single shot. Or the Ever Alert, who kept armies at bay with hidden facts. These giants do not seem to give us solace here, but they are not all that we are. Before the network, there was the fleet. Before diplomacy, there were soldiers! Our influence stopped the Rachni, but before that we held the line! Our influence stopped the Krogan, but before that, we held the line!"

He paused for effect, then, "Our influence will stop Saren; in the battle today, we will hold the line!"

"Charming." John remarked quietly, turning to his squads, "You all know the score. We go hard, hit them harder, and make hellfire and damn sure we're the only thing that comes out the other side."

"Kill them all." Liara agreed.

"We're gonna send every one of those synthetics and traitors back to the hell they were spawned from. Hooah!" Jenkins cried.

"Move out." John ordered.

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Rear approach to Saren's Compound, 1640 Hours.

John's comm activated, "Shadow, we have engaged the enemy. You can start moving." Kirrahe informed.

"Let's go." John ordered.

"Patrol incoming." Natalya stated.

John watched his motion detector as the pair of Geth came around the corner of the rockface, once they were exposed he let loose with a Biotic blast, sending small pieces of them in all directions.

'Readings in the clearing up ahead, multiple enemies and comm equipment.' Wilco informed.

"Geth position ahead. Natalya, make me proud." John ordered.

She nodded, crouched, then rolled around the corner, taking cover behind a rock. Popping up she quickly sighted in on the antenna, a shot from her VLRM brought it down on top of two of the Geth. A quick succession of shots took down the other 4 infantry and the colossus.

"Clear." She said.

"Impressive darling. Form up." John ordered, taking point.

They continued along the path, encountering several more Geth patrols, dispatching them easily they kept moving.

"Shadow, the Geth are becoming disorganized. Your handiwork?" Kirrahe asked over the comm.

John responded, "We took out a comm tower. Hope it helped."

"Good move. We're getting hit by flyers but pushing forward." Kirrahe replied.

"If we see anything else we'll take it down. Shepard out." John finished.

"Looks like another Geth position ahead." Tali spoke, pointing to the end of the small valley, where it opened into another area.

Natalya was scanning over it with her VLRM, "Much larger than the last. Several of the colossi, 20 regular Geth, and some Krogans."

"You see any equipment?" John asked.

Natalya sighted in, a snap suddenly, then an explosion some distance forward, "There was what looked like an uplink station. We have incoming."

John smirked, "We shouldn't keep them waiting." He rushed forward, Tali and Liara close behind.

A pair of Krogan reached them first, quickly falling to Tali's photon fire. A Colossus charged forward, flanked by several smaller Geth, all firing rapidly.

John charged his biotics, lifting the larger Geth into the air and then smashing it down into the rest, neutralizing all of them.
Within a minute the clearing was quiet, the Geth and Krogan killed.

John checked the map he had uploaded to his Neural Net earlier, "Looks like this is an access point to the walkways, it'll lead us right up to the back door. Move out."

They moved up the ramp, onto the walkways. Moving along them for nearly half a mile before encountering any more enemies, this time a group of Geth drones.

"Rockets!" Liara warned as the drones fired.

John threw a wave of Biotic force, sending the rockets flying back toward the drones, which dodged easily, firing with M/A rounds. Several bursts of plasma and photons knocked them down, allowing the squad to move forward.

'Activity on the platform ahead, several more drones and fuel tanks.' Wilco informed.

"Refueling station ahead. Tali, go." John ordered.

Tali rushed forward. She spotted the platform around the bend, priming a plasma grenade she hurled it toward one of the large fuel tanks. The explosion was spectacular, destroying all three tanks and all the drones.

John moved forward, "Good work. We're only a few hundred yards from the compound, let's move."

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Forward approach, Jaeto squad.

"Mannovai is engaging Geth forces, we're moving forward for support fire." Commander Rentola ordered.

Jenkins checked the ammo display on his plasma rifle out of habit, making sure it was at full capacity. Then moving forward to take point, Shiala beside him.

They moved forward of the group, moving along the designated path.

"These Salarians are going to be slaughtered once we engage the Geth." Shiala commented.

"Nah, we're going to be between them and the enemy. You think I'm letting them take the satisfaction of a kill away from me?" Jenkins stated.

"Ah, I should have known better." Shiala replied.

Jenkins' motion detector flashed, "Patrol ahead." He said, already firing.

The pair of Geth went down quickly, Jenkins and Shiala moving forward. Jenkins hit his comm, "We just hit a patrol, moving forward."

"This is Mannovai, Aegohr needs support now." Kirrahe ordered.

"Sergeant, you and the commando move to support them, we'll meet up again once we reach Mannovai." Rentola ordered.

"Moving." Jenkins replied.

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Rear Access, Shadow Squad.

After dispatching three more groups of Geth, they made it to the rear entrance of the compound.

Tali spotted an access panel, hacking it easily with her omnitool, "I have access. Unlocking security doors, disabling alarms. There, done."

"Good work." John said, moving through the now open doorway into a small warehouse.

'Detecting activity.' Wilco informed.

John motioned for Tali to move forward, past a pile of crates stacked to the ceiling. A pair of Salarians holding pistols suddenly appeared from the end. Tali brought her carbine up, smashing the helmet of one, knocking him down. Swinging around she kicked the second one hard, dropping him on top of the first, a shot from her carbine neutralizing both.

John walked up, "And that my dear is why I always tell you to keep a bayonet on your longarm."

"What the hell are Salarians doing here, and shooting at us?" Tali demanded.

"Captain Kirrahe did say he had lost a large number of his men investigating this compound. Perhaps they were captured and subjected to the same indoctrination that Saren is using on the Krogan he is creating." Liara suggested.

John sighed, "Just what I wanted, the chance to shoot frogmen. Let's move."

They moved further into the compound, encountering Geth and Salarians. They ended up at an elevator, and took it up to the next level.

It opened into a large facility, some kind of laboratory. There were strange stalls set up, glowing rods forming a cage around them.

"Some kind of genetic resequencer I think." Liara observed.

Natalya looked forward, "Are those husks?"

"Yes." John replied, opening fire.

Once the room was clear of husks he walked over to what looked like the computer console for the lab.

Tali followed, activating her omnitool and attempting to hack in.

"No good." She said.

'Do your magic Wilco.' John thought, placing his hand on the console.

'Hacking. Compiling. Accessing. This facility is not only being used to breed Krogan, but it's main purpose is to study the indoctrination that comes from prolonged contact with the Reaper vessel, Sovereign.' Wilco explained.

"Interesting. Saren's studying indoctrination here." John relayed.

Natalya cocked her head, "Why would he study indoctrination?"

"Perhaps he doesn't understand it, maybe it's simply a field or something similar emanated by the Reaper vessel, and not something actually under his control." Liara suggested.

"Sharp as always, that's a good possibility. I've got a full map of the facility here... whoa, there's another Beacon here. Let's go." John ordered.

"Another Beacon, how exciting. I've actually never had a chance to see one in person before!" Liara said excitedly.

Tali turned to look at the Asari, "Please, try to remember why we're here; The Geth, Saren, the possible extinction of all life in the galaxy."

"Of course, I'm sorry. But still, if we have the chance.." Liara trailed off.

"We'll see." John promised.

They moved out into the open, a long walkway connecting two parts of the compound.

John's comm activated, "Shadow, this is Mannovai, we are about to breach the compound. Status?"

"We're in the facility, moving to gather data." John replied, checking the map, "From your point of entry you will be a straight shot to the designated landing zone, uploading facility map to you. Watch out Captain, they've brainwashed some of your men, we've been engaging Salarian operators."

"Understood Shadow, thanks for the warning, we'll keep them distracted for you. Mannovai out." Kirrahe finished as the channel closed.

They crossed the walkway, entering what looked like an office of some kind. John spotted a figure huddled behind a desk, "Stand up and identify yourself." He ordered.

An Asari in a utility jumpsuit stood up slowly, "Please don't shoot."

"One." John said, his heavy repeater trained on her.

"I'm Rana Thanoptis, head researcher." She said frantically.

'Confirmed.' Wilco informed him.

"Tell me why Saren is researching Indoctrination, does he control it or not?" John ordered.

"N-no, he doesn't. It's that ship, Sovereign, it emits some kind of signal we can't detect, it subtly influences brain patterns, eventually subverting a persons own higher reasoning abilities. Saren is afraid he might be growing indoctrinated I-i think." Rana explained.

"You don't talk like you're indoctrinated, you aren't one of Benezia's followers?" Natalya asked.

She frantically shook her head, "No, I'm just a Neurospecialist that Saren hired. I didn't know he was a traitor at the time, I swear. Once I got here I was too afraid to do anything, the first person I had to study was my predecessor. The indoctrination affects everyone, Saren, the Krogan, the Salarians, us support staff, everyone. The greater an effect, the less free will, the less capable a subject becomes. That's spared me so far. And Saren I assume."

"Sounds reasonable. You're coming with us then, you can help the Inquisition find a cure or defense against it." John stated.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you. Wait, the elevator there goes to Saren's private lab, He has a Prothean Beacon secured there, I can open it for you." She said.

"Do it." John ordered, keying his helm comm, "Keep one eye on her, just incase." He ordered the squad.

Rana walked over, inputting a code on the elevator panel. The door opened with a *ching*.

"You first." John told her.

She entered the elevator, the Squad piling in. The doors close, and the descent began. A few second later the doors opened again, showing a medium sized room, a metal catwalk in a T-shape made up the top floor, while two ramps led down to the bottom.

"Over there." Liara said, pointing to the Beacon.

They filed out, John motioned for them to stay on the top, as he went down. The Beacon was active, a holographic panel in clear view.

'Wilco, make sure you're recording this.' He ordered.

'Affirmative.' The AI replied.

"Here goes nothing." John said, placing his hand into the holographic field.

Just like before the vision penetrated his mind, scenes of death and destruction filling his consciousness. There were some scattered parts he recognized as new. Just as suddenly as it began it ended, John shaking himself fiercely, staying on his feet. He walked back up the ramp.

"Are you alright John?" Liara asked.

"I'm fine. Same vision, but a couple of new parts, it might be enough." He replied.

"Now we just need to disable the AA guns and secure the landing site." Tali stated.

Natalya gasped, "What is that?"

John turned, there was a red hologram formed on the center catwalk, in the shape of the Reaper ship.

A malicious, mechanical voice echoed, "You are not Saren."

"Is that some kind of VI interface?" Liara asked.

"Rudimentary creatures of blood and flesh, you touch my mind, fumbling in ignorance, incapable of understanding. There is a realm of existence, so far beyond your own you cannot even imagine it. I, am beyond your comprehension. I, am Sovereign." The image stated.

"Well I'll be. Hackett owes me a few hundred Thalers." John said nonchalantly.

Liara and Rana were looking at him like he just grew several extra heads.

"I bet him that Sovereign was an actual Reaper, not just a Reaper ship Saren found." He explained.

"'Reaper?' A label created by the Protheans, to give voice to their destruction. In the end, what they chose to call us is irrelevant... we simply, are. Organic life is nothing but a genetic mutation, an accident. Your lives are measured in years and decades, you wither and die. We are eternal, the pinnacle of evolution, and existence. Before us, you, are nothing. Your extinction is inevitable. We, are the end of everything." Sovereign said.

"I see. That's why you ran from us at Quaria?" John retorted.

"Confidence born in ignorance, the cycle cannot be broken. The pattern has repeated itself more times than you can fathom. Organic civilizations rise, evolve, advance and at the apex of their glory, they are extinguished." Sovereign replied.

Liara's eyes widened, "Cycle.. I was right!"

"The Prothean's were not the first, they did not create the 'Citadel', they did not forge the 'Mass Relays' they merely found them. The legacy of my kind." Sovereign stated.

"So you built the Relay Network and the Citadel, and left them for organic races to find. I'm sure you have a longwinded, mustache twirling explanation for this." John said, amused.

"Your civilization is based on the technology of the Mass Relays, our technology. By using it, your society develops along the paths we desire." The Reaper said.

"But why?" Tali asked.

"We impose order on the chaos of organic evolution. You exist because we allow it, and you will end, because we demand it." Sovereign replied.

John shook his head, "Well I guess we Humans threw a monkey wrench into your plan, showing up on the Galactic stage with energy weapons and all the advanced technology we produce."

The Reaper's tone subtly changed, "My kind transcends your very understanding, we are each a nation, independent, free of all weakness. You cannot even grasp the nature of our existence."

John chuckled at that, "Now see, that would be intimidating if I actually believed it. Here's the problem with your schtick, if you were actually the all powerful being you've made yourself out to be, you wouldn't be screwing around with the Geth, or Saren, or anything else, you'd simply waltz in and smite us. Sure, you're powerful. Sure, you're dangerous. But what you really are is scared. We've broken your mold. We made you turn tail and run. You're as frightened as a machine can be. The best part is you don't even know what we Terrans are truly capable of. We never lose. Surrender and save yourself the pain."

The Reaper was silent for a moment, then, "I am the vanguard of your destruction, this, exchange, is over." The hologram blinked out, and the windows of the lab exploded suddenly, throwing shards everywhere.

"I think you touched a nerve, husband." Tali said.

"The truth is always painful." John replied.

"Normandy to the Commander." John's comm rang out.

"Yes X/O?" John asked.

"We just sighted Sovereign coming in hard and fast, we're circling the compound outside of the AA range. You need to get those guns down fast so we can land." Pressly explained.

"On it, stay out of visual, the Normandy's evaded Sovereign's sensors before." John ordered.

He turned to his squad, "Let's go."

"The defense grid can be accessed from my terminal." Rana said.

"You're certainly giving me reasons not to shoot you." John commented as they reentered the elevator.

As soon as the elevator reached the officer they filed out, Rana unlocked the terminal so John had access. John sat his hand down on the terminal.

'Accessing. Switching defense grid target rules of engagement. Completed.' Wilco informed.

"Defense grid is fully active and targeting Saren's forces. Let's get to the landing site." John ordered.

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Forward Approach, Salarian Squads.

"Charges set, everyone bunker down!" Jenkins warned.

The Salarians and Marines scrambled, taking cover behind rocks and anything else they could.

Jenkins made sure everyone was out of the radius, then detonated the charges. The huge explosion blasted through the thick wall, making an opening almost 20 feet wide.

He and Shiala took point, moving into the base first. This area looked like a cargo off-loading area, a shuttle pad and several cranes set up. No enemies in sight.

"Area clear." He informed the other squads.

"The enemy should be waiting for us. It could be an ambush, keep your guard up. Sergeant Jenkins, take point." Kirrahe ordered.

Jenkins and Shiala moved further in, "According to the map Commander Shepard gave us, this cargo area should lead to a a cargo elevator under AA gun 2, and from there we're close to the landing site." He said.

Shiala nodded, "This feels wrong."

"Yeah, I know." Jenkins replied.

They heard weapons fire ahead, moving forward cautiously, they spotted several Krogan and Geth being fired on by defense turrets and drones.

They stood staring for a moment.

"Okay. I'm not even going to ask." Jenkins said, opening fire on the Krogan.

Once the enemy was eliminated, the turrets went inactive, the drones flying off.

"Captain Kirrahe, the defense grid is attacking Saren's forces, I'd guess it's the Commander's handiwork." Jenkins informed them.

"The tide has turned. All squads move forward, cover each other." Kirrahe ordered.

Jenkins looked forward, zooming in with his HUD, "We have a very large group of Krogan and Geth up ahead, easily four times our number."

"We'll attack together, hold for the moment." Kirrahe ordered.

"Affirmative." Jenkins replied, taking cover behind a large crate.

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AA Tower 1, Shadow Squad.

They passed through the AA tower quickly, disabling a multitude of Geth.

"There's the Elevator." John said.

The elevator was closed, the lights indicating it was coming down. John charged his biotics, unleashing a horrendous blast as the door slid open, blasting the 7 Geth inside.

They entered, heading up. There were a number of Geth waiting for them, plasma fire and biotic force demolished them quickly.

"There's a shallow breeding pool, then the landing site." John said, taking point.

"Tell me we're not going to have to wade through baby Krogan." Natalya asked.

"Okay, I won't tell you." John replied.

Natalya sighed, "Wonderful. I'm going to be showering for several hours after we get off this world."

"Is that a promise darling?" John threw back.

The huge doors opened to the shallow pool, several Krogan were waiting inside. They were caught suddenly as Liara coalesced a singularity in the middle of the group. Tali tossed a grenade into the vortex, throwing bits of Krogan and armor all through the area.

The next set of doors opened, the landing site had several fuel tanks on the edges.

"Area looks clear. Blow the tanks." John ordered, firing at one.

Tali tagged the two at the far end, and they exploded spectacularly, "You know, I never get tired of seeing explosions."

John chuckled, "That's my girl."

His comm beeped, "Coming down Commander, clear the area." Pressly informed.

John motioned his squad over to the side. They watched the Normandy coming in, making a graceful pass over the area, then hovering and coming straight down gently. The large drop hatch opened, he saw Chief Valar'Ressk and several Security Marines toting the converted fusion core out.

"You think it'll work Chief?" He asked, walking up.

"The Salarians had no idea what they were doing. Don't worry Commander, I made sure it would go bang. Once we activate it the timer's 45 seconds. Give or take 15 seconds." Valar'Ressk replied.

"Good to know." John replied.

His comm activated, "Commander Shepard, we're under heavy fire in the eastern cargo area, we can't make it to you." Kirrahe stated.

"Not a chance Kirrahe, I don't leave people behind. Moving to assist." John responded.

"Liara, Natalya, guard the bomb, Tali with me." He turned to one of the Security Marines, "Private Alesely, take Rana here and secure her in one of the containment pods." John ordered.

"But I helped you!" The Asari protested.

"Yes, which is why you're still alive. Once Shiala confirms you're free of indoctrination you'll be released. Tali, come on." John ordered, making his way across the area to the next breeding pool.

The doors slid open, several Geth hoppers were moving through the lock. Tali and John quickly dispatched them. Moving ahead they entered the cargo ramp, seeing a very large group of Geth and Krogan up ahead, firing at the Salarian squads.

John charged, firing his energy repeater in wide bursts while Tali covered him with her photon carbine. Several of the enemy were downed before they realized they were being attacked from behind, but it was too late. John lunged into the group, charging his Biotics and letting it release in a shockwave, annihilating the enemies closest to him. The shock allowed the Salarian squads to push forward, John saw Jenkins and Shiala charging, firing as they went.

The area was cleansed of enemy quickly. Captain Kirrahe moved forward, "I thought our last day was here Spectre. My men and I owe you a debt of gratitude."

"I get that a lot. We'll cover you, head on to the Normandy." John replied.

The squads passed, John looked and saw Williams trailing one, "Where's the Lieutenant?" He asked.

Williams looked at him and shook her head.

"Dammit, he was a good man. Keep mov.. What the hell is that?" John asked as a buzzing noise filled the area.

John's danger sense spiked just then, "Tali run, NOW!", He ordered in a tone that allowed no dissent. Tali moved swiftly, sprinting toward the Salarians.

Suddenly the noise broke, John looked up, not expecting in the least the sight that greeted him.

Saren was riding some kind of hoverboard, charging his biotics. John charged his own, throwing a wave of force at the traitor. Saren dodged it, launching his attack. It threw John back into a crate, his barrier absorbing most of the force. Williams was not so lucky, she was tossed headfirst into a large container, slumping to the ground, helmet broken into pieces, obviously dead.

John rolled behind the crate as Saren descended, hopping off the flying platform.

John shouldered his repeater, rising and taking aim at Saren in an instant. He pulled the trigger, and a 'squirk' was heard from the weapon, his HUD flashing a malfunction alert.

Saren smirked, "Impressive diversion Shepard. My Geth were utterly convinced the Salarians were the real threat."

John threw his repeater away, the power cable automatically uncoupling. "So, tell me something. Why? Do you honestly hate us Humans so much you would condemn the entire galaxy to death simply for revenge?" John asked.

"You think I'm doing this for revenge? This is about survival. We have no hope against the Reapers, NO HOPE! You've seen the visions, you know what happened to the Protheans. If we work with the Reapers, we can ensure that atleast a small number of organics survive." Saren stated.

"You're truly that naive? Sovereign is using you, just like he's using the Geth. You're tools to him, nothing more and maybe even less. Why would they possibly want to allow any organics to survive?" John retorted.

"Sovereign is a machine. It thinks like a machine. If I can prove my value, I become a resource, worth maintaining. There is no other logical conclusion. Is submission not preferable to extinction?" Saren asked.

"The choice isn't between submission or extinction, the choice is between resistance or submission AND extinction. We can fight the Reapers, we proved it at Quaria. You were a Spectre once, you had a responsibility to protect the Galaxy. Instead you've given up, you've betrayed everything and everyone you ever claimed to care about. You're pathetic, a delusional stupid xeno who is trying to justify saving his own skin with words you cannot even begin to understand. Let's finish this!" John roared, unsheathing his gauntlet blade and charging his biotics.

"I'm not doing this for myself. Don't you see, Sovereign will succeed. It is inevitable. My way is the only way any of us will survive. I'm forging an alliance between us and the Reapers, between organics and machines, and in doing so, I will save more lives than have ever existed. But you would undo my work. You would doom our entire civilization to complete annihilation, and for that, you must die." Saren replied, charging his own biotics.

John roared out a battlecry, charging at Saren. The Turian stood his ground, throwing biotic blasts against John rapidly. He weathered them all, closing and grabbing Saren by the neck, stabbing his blade deep into the Turian's belly. He pulled his hand back, charging his biotics and catapulting the Turian over the wall to the ground below.

John walked over toward the edge, just barely being missed by the hoverboard as it flew toward Saren. He started to run over, suddenly hearing the buzzing noise begin again. The hoverboard came back up, Saren curled up on it, still alive somehow. It sped off very fast before John could react.

"I'll get you you bastard." He swore to the sky. Turning and running back to the Normandy as fast as he could.

Valar and Tali were guarding the bomb, "John, are you alright?" Tali asked.

"No. Come on, we need to move fast." He ordered, leading them into the Normandy.

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Comm Room, INF Normandy. 2350 Hours.

"That's when the bastard took off." John finished.

"Alenko and Williams... gone." Jenkins said.

"We'll avenge them. They fell like proper warriors, they've brought great honor onto their families and House." John reassured.

Shiala leaned forward, "I examined Rana Thanoptis. I am certain she is free of Saren's influence."

"Good, I was hoping you'd say that. We'll drop her off for the Inquisition when we can, they can put her to good use. Captain Kirrahe, how did your men fare?" John asked.

"We suffered losses, but less than was expected. 22 of us still live, thanks to you Commander. If it had been another STG I'm sure we would all be gone now, I will make sure my superiors know of your valiant action, and your sacrifices." Kirrahe replied.

"Thank you Captain, we don't leave anyone behind if it's at all possible. X/O?" John asked.

Pressly stepped forward, "We confirmed complete and total destruction of the facility. We'll be hooked into a secure comm buoy in 5 days time since Adams gunned the core. We've managed to fit the Salarians into an area on the engineering deck, it's not comfortable but it'll have to do."

"We're adaptable Officer, any accommodations you can offer are more than sufficient. Thank you again for everything Commander, I need to go tend to my men." Kirrahe said, rising from his seat.

"Of course Captain." John replied, dismissing him.

After the Captain left Liara rose, "Commander, if I may see the new vision?"

"You want to meld again? Do it, we need to figure this out." John ordered.

Liara walked up, placing her hands on John's head as he leaned down to her height, "Relax John, embrace eternity!"

He felt their minds touch, the vision running through their shared consciousness. Just as quickly as it started it ended, Liara lurching back, closing her eyes.

John shook himself, "You alright?"

"Yes." Liara nodded, "This vision was far more intense than the last, I think.. Ilos, the conduit is on Ilos!"

"We have the name, now we can cross-reference it with the list of Prothean worlds we got from the last beacon. This just might be the breakthrough we need!" John said excitedly.

Liara shook her head, "I wish it were that simple. Ilos is a lost world, the Relay that allowed travel to the system was flung out of position many thousands of years ago. I recognized the planet from scattered references in other Prothean holdings we've uncovered, but it is not accessible."

"So we know where it is but we can't get to it?" Jenkins asked.

"No." Liara replied simply.

"Saren's looking for a way to Ilos, we just have to find it before him. I need to think on this." John stated.

"That would be best I... ohhh." Liara said woozily.

"The melding really hits you hard, go rest." John ordered.

"Thank you John, excuse me." Liara replied.

He looked over the rest, "Alright, dismissed." He ordered.

He slumped back against the console. Staying like that as the room emptied.

"Commander, if I may." Normandy asked.

"What is it Normandy?" He replied.

"I do not mean to patronize you, but you did all that you could. The loss of the ones you grew to know and protected is painful, but we must push on in their memory." Normandy stated.

John stood straight, "Thank you Normandy, I needed that. We will avenge them."

"I have no doubt of that. Perhaps we can mount Saren's head as a trophy in the Officer's Mess when we do?" The AI asked.

John smiled, "I like that idea."

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End of Chapter Fourteen.

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