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Mass Effect: The Helldiver Saga, The Collector War	By : Veyron722skyhook Category: +M through R > Mass Effect Views: 6240 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Mass Effect or it's characters. They belong to Bioware and EA. No money/profit is made by me from this.

Chapter List
- 34
- 35
- 36
Well! That was unexpected. Such a long chapter and I managed to get it done in just four days.
I'm very impressed with that!
Hope you enjoy this one. I've had a lot of the dialogue changes thought out for a while, so I'm pleased to finally be able to write them down at last.
Hope you enjoy!

Chapter 35
It's Treason then
Austin was a bit concerned that Tali needed something taken care of as well now. It wasn't usually like her.
"Austin. I'm glad you came by. I may need your help." said the Quarian. "I just received a message from the Migrant Fleet. The Admiralty Board has accused me of treason. I'm scared, Austin."
"Nobody who knows you could believe you'd betray your people, Tali." said Austin defensively.
"I don't know. They don't lay charges like this unless the evidence seems absolute. But thanks. I appreciate your faith in me, Austin." said Tali, smiling under her helmet.
"Have they said why it is you've been charged? It couldn't be because you're working with me, could it? I thought the Admiralty Board approved of you to be transferred here." Austin asked.
"Exactly. And no, they didn't say. I have no idea what they're accusing me of. You'd think I would remember if I'd betrayed the Fleet!" Tali replied.
"What happens when a Quarian is accused of treason? Unfortunately, that's not a Quarian tradition I'm familiar with." Austin inquired.
"There's a hearing, with members of the Admiralty Board acting as judges. My father is an admiral on the board. He'll have to recuse himself from judgement. I can't even imagine what he's thinking right now. The punishment for treason is exile. If they convict me, I can never go back." Tali explained.
"So you have no idea why they're accusing you?"
"None. The specifics of charges like this are rarely discussed on open channels. I won't know any more until I get to the flotilla."
"What happens if you're convicted?"
"Like I said, exile. The specifics are up to the judges. If it's deemed only a tragic mistake in judgement, the guilty party might receive a small ship and supplies. Not that it really matters. Either way, if I'm convicted, I'll never see the Migrant Fleet again."
"So no prison, and no death penalty?"
"We don't have the spare resources for long-term incarceration. Monitored work detail is more effective. And we don't have enough people to afford executions. An exile can still have children, and those children are welcomed back to the fleet."
"How often is someone from the Fleet charged with treason?"
"It's rare. I must be something that affects the entire flotilla, not just one ship. The most recent one was Anora Vanya vas Selani, an engineer who handed over Fleet defence schematics to the Batarians. She had good intentions. The Batarians were contracted to upgrade our systems. But they passed the defence schematics to a pirate gang."
"Was she convicted?"
"No. She made a suicide run on the pirate gang. She destroyed them before they could attack the Fleet. She was pardoned… posthumously. Let's hope I don't have to prove my innocence that way."
"So how does the trial work? How soon do we need to get you there?"
"They'll wait a reasonable period of time for me to come and defend myself. Eventually, if I don't show up, they'll try me in absentia. As for how it works… it's less formal than an Earth trial, or something you'd see on the Citadel. We're family. This is just the worst kind of family meeting."
It was an easy choice for Austin. Sure their mission took priority, but Tali was his friend. Everyone needed to be focused on the mission, and if it was possible he could indeed make that happen, he'd do it.
"Well then, we'd better find the flotilla." he said.
Tali looked momentarily surprised by this. She had not expected Austin to help her completely.
"I was going to book passage on another ship. I didn't think there would be time for you to help. Thank you, Austin." she said gratefully. "I'll program the Normandy with the flotilla's current location. The Admirals will be waiting for us."

The huge fleet could be seen out of the Normandy's windows. It was quite a sight seeing all those ships. It reminded Austin so much of the Helldiver fleet back home on Arkadia.
"This is Tali Zorah vas Neema nar Rayya requesting permission to dock with the Rayya." said Tali.
"Our system has your ship flagged as Helldiver. Please confirm your identity for safety." said the traffic controller.
"After time adrift among open stars, along tides of light and through shoals of dust, I will return to where I began." said Tali.
"Permission granted. Welcome home, Tali Zorah."
"We'd like a security and quarantine team to meet us. Our ship is not clean."
"Understood. Approach exterior docking cradle 17."

Both Tali and Leena were very nervous with Austin's choice of the third squad mate, Legion.
"I don't think it's a good idea to bring a Ge…"
Tali was instantly interrupted when guards immediately pointed their guns right at Legion. Austin was able to push past one of them until he could see their leader, Captain Kar Danna, captain of the Rayya.
"Get that damn thing off my ship before you start an incident that makes the ascension project fiasco with Cerberus look a slow day on garbage detail!" the Captain yelled.
"Look, we're not here to cause problems. This Geth's on our side." said Austin, trying to diffuse the situation.
"Helldivers may be welcome here, but the Geth is too much. Leave it on your ship." said Kar.
"This is your ship and I'm and guest, but Legion is part of my team. Unless you want to shoot me, we're both coming aboard." said Austin.
"Or I could kick you both off." said Kar.
"Your seriously going to do that, Captain Kar Danna?" said Leena as she stepped into view.
Some of the guards stepped back slightly and seemed to murmur to each other. Leena was well known among the Quarians due to her being one of very few Quarian Helldivers.
"Leena vas Penthra. I honestly did not expect to see you here again." said Kar in surprise.
"You know me, Captain. If this Geth gets out of line, I'll kill it myself." said Leena.
"As Tali and Leena's captain I'll also take responsibility for what happens." said Austin.
Kar Danna seemed hesitant for a moment, but finally seemed to see that he was in the minority here.
"Very well. Stand down." he ordered.
The guards did as they were told and stood down.
"I must say though, it is an honour to finally meet you in person, Captain Shepard. Tali told me a lot about you. I wish we could be meeting under more pleasant circumstances." said Kar.
"Actually it's Major now. Technically, I'm also not really a ship captain. I'm a marine." said Austin
"Nevertheless, you're the commander of the Normandy, responsible for the lives aboard it. That entitles you to respect among our people. May you stand between your crew and harm as you lead them through the empty quarters of the stars." said Kar.
"Keelah se'lai. It's an old ship Captain's blessing, Austin." said Tali.
"Thank you. Tali helped the Normandy's crew out of many difficult situations. I'm here to return the favour." said Austin.
"I understand. As the Commander of the vessel she serves on, your voice carries weight. I wish I could do more to help, Tali. The trial requires that I be officially neutral, but… I'm here, if you need to talk." said Kar.
"So what exactly is she charged with?" Austin asked.
"They're charging her with bringing active Geth into the Fleet as part of a secret project." Kar replied.
"That's insane! I never brought active Geth aboard. I only sent parts and pieces." Tali objected.
"You sent Geth materials back to the Migrant Fleet?!" Leena asked, almost in shock.
"Yes. My father was working on a project. He needed the materials. If I sent back something that was only damaged, not permanently inactive… No. No, I checked everything. I was careful." said Tali.
"Technically, I'm under orders to place Tali Zorah under arrest ending the hearing. So, Tali… you're confined to this ship until this trial is over." said Kar.
"Thank you, Captain."
"Preparations got underway as soon as you arrived. The hearing's being held in the garden plaza. Good luck."
The ship's interior seemed to look rather like that of a cargo ship. Although to be fair, that's probably what these ships used to be.
Austin had never seen this many Quarians in one place before. It was quite a sight.
As the group headed towards the plaza, they saw a female Quarian standing there, looking like she was waiting for them.
"Tali Zorah. I am glad you came. I could delay them only so long." she said.
Tali walked up to the Quarian and hugged her.
"Auntie Raan!" she said. "Austin, this Admiral Shala Raan vas Tonbay. She's a friend of my father's."
Leena then stepped forward. Austin had a feeling he was imagining it, but Leena's body language almost seemed to give the impression that she was struggling to think of what to say.
"Do I know you? Shala asked.
"Hello, Mother."
Shala looked shocked by this.
"Leena?!"
Both Quarians walked up to one another and hugged tightly. Shala almost had to stand on her toes due to Leena's Helldiver armour making her much taller than a normal Quarian.
"I thought I'd never see you again. It's been so long. Look at you, all grown up." said Shala, almost in happy tears at seeing the daughter she hadn't seen since she went away on her pilgrimage.
Austin was left almost speechless. He'd never seen Leena this emotional before. She was always hard core and tough. It never would've occurred to him that the tough as nails Quarian Helldiver would ever have a soft spot. Even today, after 10 years, he was still finding out new things about his squad.
"I'm sorry I never came back. I just…" Leena struggled to say. But Shala stopped her.
"It's okay, sweetheart. You had a duty as a Helldiver. I can respect that. Besides, your name is well known among our people. I'm very proud of you." said the older Quarian proudly.
The two Quarians touched helmets for a moment before finally parting and Leena went back to standing next to Austin.
"Mother?" he asked.
"I never told you my full name. It's Leena Raan vas Penthra. I guess I just sort of stopped using my family name when I left the fleet to become a Helldiver." Leena explained.
"Well, in that case, it's an honor to meet you, Admiral. I've had the privilege of working and fighting alongside your daughter for over 10 years. She's a fine warrior." said Austin, bowing his head in acknowledgement of the mother of one of his squad mates.
"I'm honoured to meet you too, Major Shepard. Tali vas Normandy told me so much about you." said Shala.
"Wait. Raan, you called me "vas Normandy." said Tali.
"I'm afraid I did, Tali. The Admiralty Board moved to have you tried under that name given your departure from the Neema." Shala explained.
"Being associated with a Helldiver ship is a bad sign?" Austin asked.
"They stripped me of my ship name. That's as good as declaring me exiled already." said Tali.
"It's not over yet, Tali. You have friends who still know you as Tali Zorah vas Neema… whatever we must call you legally." said Shala comfortingly.
"You're an admiral. Does that mean you're one of the judges?" Austin asked.
"I'm afraid not. My history with Tali and her father forced me to recuse myself." said Shala.
"I imagine Father had to do the same." said Tali.
"You'll see inside, Tali. For my part, I moderate and ensure that the rules of protocol are followed, but I have no vote in the judgement."
"I guess we should get started. Does Tali have a defence counsellor, someone who speaks for her side?" Austin asked.
"Indeed she does… Major Shepard. She is part of your crew, now, recognized by Quarian law. And remember, an accused is always represented by his or her ship's captain." said Shala.
"So, er… you would actually speak for my defence." said Tali.
Austin hadn't expected this. He'd thought that Tali's real Captain would stand in her defence, not him. Nevertheless, Tali was his friend and he'd do all he could to help her. It never even crossed his mind of saying no.
"I'll do everything within my power to help you, Tali." he said reassuringly.
"As will I as your shipmate and friend." Said Leena.
"Thank you, both of you. I could not ask for better friends." said Tali gratefully.
"Our legal rules are simple. There are no legal tricks or political loopholes for you to worry about. Present the truth as best you can. It will have to be enough. Now come. I promised that I would not delay you." said Shala.
All the other Quarians either stood out sat down for the hearing. Three Admirals were affiliating as judges and Shala stood above them. As she had said, she simply made sure that it went appropriately, she had little say in the matters.
Despite what he had said, Austin had to admit he was a bit nervous. He'd never done this sort of thing, even with non Quarians. Leena's presence helped to ease the tension a bit, but only a little. Austin could only hope that his persuasive skills were up to scratch. He was no diplomat, but he'd always managed to find a way to sort things like this out.
"This conclave is brought to order. Blessed are the ancestors who kept us alive, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this season. Keelah se'lai." said Shala.
"Keelah se'lai." the crowd repeated.
"The accused, Tali Zorah vas Normandy, has come with her captain to defend herself against the charge of treason." said Shala.
The three Admirals each had different suit colours which would at least make them easy to tell apart. There were two males, and one female. The female had a black suit, the middle male had a white and red one, and the last one on the right was completely white.
Austin managed to use his suit's database to identify them all. The female was Admiral Daro Xen vas Moreh, the red Admiral Zaal Koris vas Qwib Qwib (a somewhat strange ship name) and the white one Admiral Han Gerrel vas Neema, most likely the captain of the ship Tali had served on before being assigned to the Normandy.
"Security, a Geth is present in the court room. Does Tali Zorah think to affect this hearing with threats?!" said Zaal Koris as he pointed legion out to the crowd, causing some of them to gasp.
"Captain Danna allowed the Geth aboard. Do you intend to second guess the Rayya's captain, Admiral Koris?!" Shala retorted.
"Objection withdrawn."
"Shepard vas Normandy, your crew member Tali Zorah stands accused of treason. Will you speak for her?" said Shala.
Austin took a deep breath and stepped forward.
"If it helps Tali, I will." he said.
"I too stand in Tali's defence as her ship mate and friend." said Leena as she stepped forward to stand next to her squad commander "In all fairness though, we shouldn't' have to. When Tali helped stop Saren and his Geth army, her actions spoke for themselves. Without her help, none of you would be alive to put her on trial today."
"Well said, Leena Raan. None of us should forget Tali's contributions to the Fleet." said Han Gerrel.
"I also regret that her captain is forbidden to stand at her side today." said Austin defensively.
Zaal Koris seemed to object to this.
"Nobody has been forbidden from anything! It is a simple-"
"Lie to them if you must, Zaal Koris, but don't lie to me and expect me to stay silent! The Helldiver is right!" Han Gerrel interrupted.
"Admirals, please. Shepard's willingness to represent Tali Zorah in this hearing is appreciated." said Shala, quickly diffusing the situation before it turned into an argument. "Tali, you are accused of bringing active Geth to the Migrant Fleet. What say you?"
"Tali would never endanger the Migrant Fleet. She pleads not guilty." Said Leena.
"Besides, how could Tali have brought Geth to the fleet while serving on the Normandy?" said Austin.
Admiral Xen, who had so far remained silent, finally spoke.
"To clarify, Shepard, Tali isn't accused of bringing back entire units – only parts that could spontaneously reactivate." she explained.
"But I would never send active Geth to the Fleet! Everything I sent was disabled and harmless!" said Tali defensively. Austin couldn't help but notice however that she was twiddling her fingers nervously. She often did that when nervous.
"Then explain how Geth seized the lab ship where your father was working!" Zaal Koris retorted.
The crowd murmured to one another, which only confused Tali even more.
"What are you talking about? What happened?" she asked.
"As far as we can tell, Tali, the Geth have killed everyone on the Alarei… your father included." said Han Gerrel.
"What? Oh, Keelah…"
"I thought we valued family! How do you justify springing this on Tali in the middle of a damn trial?!" Leena shouted in anger.
Austin had to admit that Leena frightened him sometimes. In all the time he'd worked with her, he'd never seen her shout like that before. Nor had he seen her this angry. She obviously cared a lot for Tali.
"Our apologies. Tali should have been informed." said Shala.
"I appreciate the need for this trial, Admirals, but right now our first concern must be the safety of the Migrant Fleet. We stand ready to assist in whatever capacity necessary." said Austin.
"Thank you. Quarian strike teams have attempted to retake the ship, so far without success." said Shala.
"Austin, we have to take back the Alarei!" said Tali.
"The safest course would be to simply destroy the ship. But if you are looking for an honourable death instead of exile…" said Zaal Koris.
"I'm looking for my father, you bosh'tet!" Tali yelled.
"You intend to retake the Alarei from the Geth? This proposal is extremely dangerous." said Shala.
"With your permission, Admirals, yes. The good of the Fleet must come first… and Tali needs to find her father." said Austin.
"Agreed. And if you die on this worthy mission, Tali, we will see that your name is cleared of these charges." said Han Gerrel.
"We can discuss that later." said Zaal Koris.
"You think Tali is helping the Geth? Maybe killing a few dozen will prove her loyalty!" said Leena.
"We do not accuse Tali of aiding the Geth cause. We accuse her of carelessness that endangered the Fleet. Zaal Koris retorted.
"Then it is decided. You will attempt to retake the Alarei. You are hereby given leave to depart the Rayya. A shuttle will be waiting at the secondary docking hangar. Be safe, Tali. This hearing will resume upon your return, or upon determination that you have been killed in action." said Shala.

"Thank you for agreeing to take back the Alarei, Austin. The admirals sound sure that my father is already dead, but... I don't know. We won't know anything until we get there. I don't know. We won't know anything until we get there." said Tali.
"How are you holding up? They just threw a lot of fire at you, even before telling you about your father." Leena asked as she put her hand on Tali's shoulder.
"I knew this would be bad, but I guess you're never really prepared to be charged with treason. And my father… I don't know. He could still be alive. They don't know for certain that he's dead. I just don't know, Austin. And I need to find out." said Tali.
"Is there anyone here you want to talk to before we go?" Austin asked.
"We can talk with the Admirals. It might help us to see what their viewpoints are. But I doubt we'll change anyone's mind by talking to them privately." said Tali.
"Let's go."
"Right. The sooner we get to the Alarei, the sooner we'll know what happened."
"Shepard, the secondary docking hangar is through the Conclave chamber where you are now. The shuttle they have provided is unarmed." said EDI.
"Understood."
"Whatever Geth are on the Alarei have likely built more of themselves. Expect heavy resistance."
Shala was the first one that Tali wanted to talk with. She wanted to know why she had not been told that her father might be dead.
"You set me up, Shala! You told Captain Danna not to say anything?! I don't hear that my father may be dead until I'm in the trial?! Why?" she shouted.
"The admirals needed to hear the shock in your voice, Tali. Otherwise they might not have let you try to retake the Alarei. That is your best chance at recovering evidence that can exonerate you. I'm sorry. We cannot afford sensitivity, Tali." said Shala calmly.
"I know you're trying to help her, mother. But that was over the line." said Leena, somewhat surprised that her mother would do something like that.
"She has nobody else to speak for her, Leena. I'm doing everything in my power. That's what her father would have wanted." said Shala defensively.
"Don't say it like that! He could still be alive on that ship!" said Tali.
"You should get to the Alarei soon. Is there anything else I can tell you?"
"What can you tell us about the Alarei?" Austin inquired.
"Not much, I'm afraid. Rael Zorah only said that he was researching new defence technology." said Shala.
"He told me only that he needed any Geth parts or pieces I found. I assumed he was testing weapons on Geth components." Tali explained.
"We knew nothing until the Alarei sent a distress signal, then went dead. We didn't even know about the Geth until a boarding team was attacked." said Shala.
"You're saying there's no data about the inside of the ship?" Austin asked.
"That's exactly what I'm saying. The marines who survived and escaped saw bodies in the halls. We must assume the worst." said Shala with regret.
"No. We don't." said Tali.
"How long have you known Tali's family?" Austin asked.
"Since before Rael was an Admiral. 25 or 30 years, I'd guess. I was there when Tali was born. Her mother and I had synched up our suits so we could be in the same open-air room. I was sick for a week, but it was worth it. I was the one who took Tali from her mother and put her in the bubble. She cried so hard." said Shala, her tone of voice giving indications of happiness as she remembered Tali as a young baby.
"I don't understand. You put your children in bubbles?" Austin asked.
"Environmental units. It's a step between relying on the mother's immune system through nursing and getting a suit of one's own." Shala explained.
"The bubbles let parents take their children out of the clean rooms safely. We don't wear suits until adolescence." said Leena.
"There's a celebration when a child gets her first suit. It's a coming of age." said Shala.
"I'm not hearing much about Rael's involvement in Tali's life." said Austin.
"It's difficult to explain. I shouldn't..." said Shala hesitantly.
"It's all right, Aunt Shala. No secrets between shipmates. I think I told Austin about my father." said Tali reassuringly.
"If you say so. Rael was... committed to the Quarian cause. That didn't leave him a lot of time for his family." said Shala. "He wanted to give Tali and her mother the homeworld... or a strong Fleet, at least. That was how he showed his love."
"What kind of evidence will carry weight with the Admirals?" Leena asked.
"Tali, you admitted to sending Geth parts to your father for his project." said Shala.
"Yes. But never anything that could have come back online on its own. I took every possible precaution!" said Tali.
"Then find records of your shipments and the experiments. Something that proves you were careful. Something that proves this is all just a terrible accident that nobody could have foreseen." said Shala.
"There seemed to be some other arguments going on among the Admirals." said Austin.
"You caught that. Yes, the Geth presence makes this a touchy issue. The Admiralty Board is trying to determine whether to focus on colonial development... or attempt to retake the homeworld." said Shala.
"You're thinking of war? With the Geth?" Tali asked in shock.
"I'm not, Tali. But others are." said Shala.
"The Geth situation isn't as simple as you think. Not all of them worship the Reaper Nazara." said Austin.
"I don't think the other admirals would care about that. They want the homeworld back, and they want all Geth destroyed." said Shala.
"Shala, don't you want to see us retake the homeworld?" said Tali.
"I don't think we can, Tali. But it may not be about what I think." said Shala.
"I know the Migrant Fleet is formidable, but even you can't' take on the Geth." said Austin.
"We grow tired of wandering the stars, Shepard. We want our world back. We have paid enough for our mistake. I'm not giving you my opinion. I'm telling you which way the wind is blowing." said Shala.
Austin decided that they'd talked enough. There were other Admirals they'd need to talk to and it would be best to do it quickly.
"We should move on." he said.
"Good luck on the Alarei." said Shala.
The next Admiral they spoke to was Han Gerrel. He seemed to be on their side in this trial, so it would be a good idea to speak with him.
"Tali! I'm glad Admiral Raan got you leave to hit the Alarei. Hopefully you'll find something that clears your name." said the Admiral.
"I'm more concerned with finding my father, Admiral." said Tali.
"I wish you luck. Blow up some Geth on the way." said Gerrel. He then turned to Austin. "And you're Major Shepard? Admiral Han Gerrel vas Neema. You've got Admiral Koris backing up worse than a Krogan toilet. I'm glad Tali's captain knows how to handle a court room. And Leena, watching you rail away at Koris like that… Tali's in good hands."
"I get the sense you're inclined to believe the defence. I'm glad one of the judges is." said Leena.
"If you were only giving Rael inactive equipment for weapons tests, I've got no problem. We need to test weapons against Geth material. I know you and your father. You put too much of yourselves into this fleet to do anything to jeopardize our safety. And you're both smart enough not to make mistakes like the ones they're saying you made." said Gerrel to Tali.
"Can you tell me anything about the Alarei?" Austin asked.
"Nothing good. We sent some of our best marines into that hellhole. Damn few made it back. Whatever Rael was doing, it blew up in his face. The ship is crawling with Geth. Don't go in expecting survivors." said Gerrel.
"Admiral! My father – your friend – is on that ship!" Tali retorted.
"I know that, Tali. But if Shala hadn't suggested you might volunteer, we'd already have destroyed the Alarei. That's where we stand." said Gerrel.
"You and Tali's father go back a long way?" Austin asked.
"We served together on the gunship Yaska during a bad Batarian raid. We were kids, serving pre-pilgrimage as trainees. A crew of ten, and six were dead. Kinetic barriers were down. Rael and I were alone on the bridge and the Batarians had drawn off a tramp freighter." said Gerrel.
"Did you save the freighter?" Austin asked.
"Our ship was under orders to hold position, but Rael looked at me and said "We're underage. They can't charge us for breaking formation." He took the helm, I took weapons, and we brought that freighter back. The crew called us heroes. Brass called us idiots. They slapped medals on our suits and kicked us off to pilgrimage a bit earlier than expected. That's Rael for you." said Gerrel.
"Can you tell about the other Admirals? Anything that might help me change their minds about Tali?" Austin asked.
"The one you didn't recognize, Tali, is Admiral Xen. She's on the fence. She takes Fleet safety very seriously. On the other hand, she's always been in favour of studying the Geth. I hope she sees the benefits of Rael's research. Admiral Koris is the same whining suit-wetter he always was." said Gerrel.
"You disagree with Admiral Koris' policies, I'm guessing? Or is it personal?" Leena asked.
"The man is a damn Geth apologist. Thinks we were wrong to try and destroy them centuries ago. He wants us to search for new colony possibilities instead of taking back the homeworld. Any research on the Geth makes him angry. You don't have much of a chance with him, I'm afraid." said Gerrel.
"It sounds like we're dealing with more politics than just Tali binging back equipment." said Austin.
"You noticed that, did you? Tali's father wasn't just running weapons tests on the Geth for fun. He was looking for something to give us the edge when we attack the Geth in full-scale war." said Gerrel.
"I know father wanted to retake the homeworld someday, but are we that close?" Tali asked.
"I don't know, kid. We almost had the vote. We just need to give people hope for victory." said Gerrel.
"I hope the Quarians find someplace to live, Admiral, but it sounds like you're playing with fire." said Austin.
"We're too comfortable now, Shepard. We've got the largest fleet in the galaxy, and we just ride around doing nothing." said Gerrel.
"We might need that fleet to help fight the Reapers, Admiral." said Tali.
"Then we need a world to shelter our non-combatants while we do it." Gerrel quickly replied.
"Thanks for the information." said Austin.
"Hang in there, kid." said Gerrel.
"Thank you, Admiral." said Tali.
Admiral Koris was the next Admiral they decided to speak to.
"Judging by your ability to play to a crowd, Helldiver, I have done Tali a favour by stripping "vas Neema" from her name." he said.
"Major Shepard, this is Admiral Zaal Koris vas QwiB-Qwib. Do not ask about the name." said Tali. She didn't seem very fond of Koris.
"I take no pleasure in this, Tali, truly. But you have gravely endangered and dishonoured our fleet." said Koris.
"What exactly is your problem with my friend, Admiral?" Leena asked crossly.
"I respect Tali immensely. Her actions against Saren are to be lauded. But like her father, she wants nothing but the destruction of the Geth… the people we created. The people we wronged." said Koris.
"The Geth drove us from our homeworld!" Tali objected.
"Of course they did. We tried to kill them." said Koris.
"You and the other Admirals appear to have some disagreements beyond Tali's trial." said Austin.
"You are correct. Tali, I apologise for it being brought into your proceedings." said Koris. "The other Admirals are pushing for war. Rael Zorah was researching new weapons to use against the Geth. They would see our fleet destroyed in the skies over out homeworld rather than find a new colony and adapt."
"Can the Quarians coexist with the Geth after all your history?" Austin asked.
"I don't know. We all deserve to find out. They are our children, Shepard. We have all done horrible things to each other, but it has to end. For both groups. That is why I cannot sanction whatever experiments you helped enable, Tali Zorah. I believe this message needs to be sent." Koris replied.
"I understand, Admiral. I do not agree with you, but I understand." said Tali.
Austin then turned to Legion.
"Do you think the Geth would be willing to accept a truce with the Quarians, Legion?" he asked.
"We did not seek hostilities with creators. We fought for continued existence." replied the Geth.
"So your people would be open to peace?" Koris asked.
"Not without additional data that suggests coexistence is possible or desirable for creators. When the creators have believed victory is possible, they have attacked us 100 percent of the time." Legion replied.
"I understand. It would be difficult to argue for peace when faced with odds like those. That does not mean the argument should not be made." said Koris.
"We should move on."
"Goodbye, Tali Zorah. Be well."
"I'm surprised to hear you say that." said Tali in surprise.
"I don't hear you, Tali. I just think your father's plans for war were wrong." said Koris.
Austin noticed that Xen was on the other side of the room and so he and the others went to speak with her. As they did however, they saw a very familiar face. Veetor! He was in the company of a Quarian doctor who was obviously caring for him while he slowly recovered from the trauma he'd endured on Freedom's Progress.
"Shepard? How did you get onto the Rayya?" he asked in surprise.
"Shepard is here to help me with my trial." said Tali.
"Oh, yes. I heard about that. I hope you didn't really do what they said you did." said Veetor.
"No, Veetor. I would never endanger the Fleet." said Tali.
"Oh. Well, good. So, can I help you with anything? I mean, probably not but – you helped me." said Veetor.
He sounded a lot less nervous than before and it looked as though he was doing much better. It was nice to see that he was at least recovering slowly but surely.
"Tali could use some friends right now. Would you be willing to tell the Admirals how she helped you?" Austin asked.
"No! I mean, yes, but I already did! They came to see me. I didn't want to talk in a crowd." said Veetor nervously.
"Veetor is doing well, but he isn't ready for a public speech just yet." said the doctor.
"I talked to them. So did that soldier, Kal Reegar. We both told them about how you helped us. I hope it helped." said Veetor.
"I'm sure it did, Veetor. Thank you." said Tali.
Austin felt it best not to ask him about the Collectors. He didn't want bring back any bad memories. Austin also didn't think that Veetor could tell them anything new that they didn't already know now.
"Take care of yourself, Veetor. Not many could have gone through what you did and come out sane." he simply said.
"I know. I didn't. But thank you, Major. It's only because of your help that I've come this far." said Veetor gratefully.
Tali then saw another familiar Quarian wearing a red suit with a black visor.
"Kal Reegar!"
"Shepard, Tali Zorah. Good to see you both. Wish it were under better circumstances." said the soldier.
"What did they get from our readings?" Tali asked.
"Damnedest thing. It's just like they said. No way the sun on Haestrom should have been acting that way." Reegar replied.
"So that dark energy theory is right? That's troubling." said Tali.
"Can't really comment on that, ma'am. I just shoot things." said Reegar.
"How've you been, Reegar? You took kind of a beating on Haestrom." Austin asked.
"Physical damage wasn't bad. I was down for about a week with infection, though. Figure I got off easy. I don't have to face those Admirals." said Reegar.
"With your immune systems, it couldn't be easy for Quarians to fight a war. You'd lose more people to infection than injury." said Austin.
"We can't afford a frontline attack, that's for sure. Have to fight smart - ideally from orbit." said Reegar.
"We do have stockpiles of antibiotics. It's not as though everyone would die from a single shot." said Tali.
"No, Shepard's right. You've only seen our strike ops, Tali. Don't have all the fancy equipment to a frontline fight. Supplies get strained, things get ugly fast." said Reegar.
"What are you doing aboard the Rayya? It sounds like you gave your report to the Admiralty already." Austin asked curiously.
"I, ah, stayed to argue that charges against Tali Zorah. I've served with her, and she deserves better than what she's getting." said Reegar admittedly.
"Thanks, Kal." said Tali gratefully.
"Just stating facts, ma'am." said Kal, bowing his head slightly.
"Have you had any luck talking to the Admiralty Board?" Austin asked.
"Admiral Raan asked my opinion about the Geth, since I'd fought on Haestrom. She and Admiral Gerrel are hoping you'll kill a bunch of Geth to get the crowd on your side, then find evidence to clear your name. They were hesitant, but, well, you didn't have many other options, ma'am. I recommended getting you onto the Alarei. I hope you can handle it." said Reegar.
"You did the right thing. Thank you." said Tali.
"You said your mission had something to do with Dark Energy." Austin inquired.
"Right. Remember that damn sun on Haestrom? Shorted out everything, way too much radiation? The sun's getting old… only it's not." "Dark energy. It's reducing the mass of the star's interior. Techs are worried." Reegar explained.
"Do you think the Geth are responsible for what's happening to Haestrom's sun?" Austin asked.
"Keelah, I hope not. If they can screw up a star, our chances in a war are even worse than I thought." said Reegar.
"I don't think this is the Geth. It would take massive time and resources to affect a star like this deliberately. It's too inefficient to be a weapon, and even the Geth wouldn't destroy a useful star system. Besides, they didn't show up until we did." said Tali.
"Hope you're right, ma'am. Synthetic bastards are bad enough as it is." said Reegar.
"What does the dark energy build-up mean? Is it something we should worry about?" Austin asked.
"Sorry, Shepard. I don't know what it means. Just that it has the scientists worried." said Reegar.
"Hopefully it's isolated, some rare phenomenon. If dark energy can destabilize solar material… Probably not something to worry about now, but resources in this galaxy are scarce enough without stars suddenly going dead." said Tali.
"Some days I think flying around in the Fleet without a planet of our own is the right idea." said Reegar.
Austin felt it best they move on.
"We should get going." he said.
"Good luck on the Alarei. Stay safe out there." said Reegar.
Xen didn't look all that pleased to be speaking with them or Tali. Sometimes Austin had a talent of telling instantly about people, and something about Xen made him feel uneasy.
"Tali Zorah. Given the circumstances, are you certain that speaking to me is appropriate?" she asked.
"I'm looking for information about the Alarei. I don't intend to bribe you in the middle of the plaza, Admiral." said Tali.
"And what a wonderful specimen this is. Geth shell over standard mech interior, or did you convince a Geth to work with you?" Xen asked, her attention focused very much on Legion.
"Legion is working with me voluntarily. It's part of my team." said Austin.
"It has a name. Fascinating. The things I could learn under different circumstances." said Xen.
"This platform is not available for experimentation." said Legion.
"Charming. I am pleased to see that the humans, at least, have not abandoned synthetics. This whole trial is a farce borne of fear." said Xen.
"If you're not interested in this trial, why not recuse yourself?" Austin asked.
"And let that aging warship Han Gerrel and the cowardly Zaal Koris be the ones to chart this course? I think not. The broader purpose underlying the trial is too important. Tali Zorah is only peripherally related. No offense intended." Xen replied.
"And what is the true purpose of this trial, Admiral?" Tali asked.
"To determine whether Quarians should fear their past mistakes, or reclaim their glory using our natural affinity for artificial intelligence." said Xen.
"So the only reason you care about this is because Rael might have learned something valuable from the Geth?" Austin asked.
"Indeed. If he has, then even in this accident, we may find something worthwhile." said Xen.
"You want to create new AIs?" Tali asked in surprise.
"No, Tali Zorah. I wish to return the Geth to the control of their rightful masters, the Quarian race. Xen replied.
"Geth behavioural changes from "hacking" only last until programs are restored from archival copy. We judge this plan unsound, Creator Admiral." said Legion.
"For once, Legion, we agree." said Tali.
"We shall see, marvellous machine. We shall see." said Xen.
"Can you tell me anything about the Alarei?" Austin asked.
"Little. We detected several communication signatures before the Geth jammed the comm systems. Given the likely networked intelligence requirements for taking over a ship, expect between ten and fifty units." said Xen.
"Then this can't have anything to do with me. I only sent parts and pieces, and certainly not enough to make that many Geth." said Tali.
"It sounds like your ideas about synthetics are in the minority." said Austin.
"Yes. At least on the Admiralty Board. Han Gerrel sees an enemy that must be crushed. Zaal Koris would run away and hide on some new colony world. Shala Raan is still undecided. I had thought Rael to be firmly in Han's camp, but if his experiments were on active Geth, perhaps we have ideas in common." said Xen.
"If we don't find Rael alive on the Alarei, what do you think will happen?" Austin asked.
"The power balance will be disrupted. Han loses a vote for his foolish self-destructive war. That would favour peace, then as Shala Raan is too careful to risk her own neck. But if the Admiral replacing Rael agrees with me… things could become very exciting." said Xen, almost smiling under her helmet.
"You support experiments on living creatures?" Austin asked.
"Rael should have felt no more guilt experimenting on Geth than I did while performing surgery on a childhood toy." Xen replied.
"The fact that you performed surgery on your childhood toys explains a great deal, Admiral." said Tali.
"A ship travels faster than I can. With the right programming, it can choose locations, even defend itself when attacked. But it is just a machine. It was built for the sole purpose of serving its master. And it can be dismantles whenever its master desires." said Xen.
"Thank you for the information." said Austin.
"It was a pleasure to meet you, Major." said Xen.
They finally headed for the docking bay where their shuttle was. The guard seemed a bit unnerved by Legion.
"Is… is that really a Geth, Tali Zorah? The guards at the docking bay said-"
"Don't worry. It's under our control. With luck, it will help us retake the Alarei." said Tali reassuringly.
"If you say so. Per Admiral Raan's orders, the shuttle is prepared for you and Major Shepard vas Normandy." said the guard.

There were no bodies aboard the Alarei, but definite signs of fighting due to scorch marks on the walls and signs of heavy fighting.
Sure enough, the ship was crawling with Geth, and not just soldiers. There were rocket troopers, pyros and even some of those drones. The Admiral's reports of the Alarei definitely hadn't been exaggerated.

After a very long time of fighting through practically an army of Geth, they came across on Quarian body. Austin feared he knew who this was. Sure enough, his fears were confirmed when Tali saw the body too.
"Father!" Tali yelled as she dropped to her knees, still unable to truly believe that Rael was truly dead.
"No, no, no! You always had a plan. Masked life signs, or, or an on board medical stasis program, maybe. You! You wouldn't... They're wrong! You wouldn't just die like this! You wouldn't..." she whimpered.
"Hey. Hey come here." said Austin as he hugged Tali.
"Damn it! Damn it. I'm sorry." said Tali, eventually managing to calm down.
"You've got nothing to be sorry about." said Austin.
"Maybe... He would have known I'd come. Maybe he left a message." said Tali as she accessed her father's omni tool. A small hologram of him appear out of it.
"Tali. If you are listening, then I am dead. The Geth have gone active. I don't have much time. Their main hub will be on the bridge. You'll need to destroy it to stop their VI processes from forming new neural links. Make sure Han Gerrel and Daro Xen see the data. They must-" said the message before it was suddenly cut off.
"Thanks, Dad."
"He knew you'd come for him He was trying to help you. It's not perfect. It's not what you wanted. But it's the best he could do." said Austin, trying to reassure Tali.
"I don't know what's worse: thinking he never cared, or thinking that he did, and that this was the only way he could show it." said Tali, with regret. "It doesn't matter. One way or the other, I cared. And I'm here. And we're ending this."
The bridge doors opened to reveal a Geth Prime and two more Geth soldiers. They hadn't noticed them so far so everyone stayed down to avoid being detected.
The Prime and the two troopers appeared to look as though they were talking with something. Austin silently signalled for the others to hold their ground while he got a bit closer, activating his cloak in the progress.
The Helldiver peaked his head around the corner slightly to try and get a better look. From what he could see, the three Geth seemed to be talking to some kind of red hologram. Upon slightly closer inspection, it almost looked like a red synthetic eye of some sorts.
Austin couldn't help but feel as though he'd seen that thing before, but he couldn't remember.
The Geth were speaking to the hologram in their own familiar language of mechanical chirps and whirs. The hologram then replied back in the same language, but it's voice was way deeper than a normal Geth's, even a Prime's voice wasn't anywhere near that deep. This also sounded familiar to Austin, but he couldn't remember that either.
The Geth and the hologram seemed to communicate with each other for several seconds. It suddenly occurred to Austin that he'd brought legion with him. Maybe he could ask if the Geth understood what they were saying.
"Legion, can you tell what they are saying?" he whispered.
Legion unfortunately didn't seem to understand why Austin was whispering and so replied back at full volume.
"They are communicating with an outside source."
"Quiet! Not so loud!" Austin hissed, but it was too late.
The three Geth and the hologram had heard legion speak. The Geth immediately armed their weapons and the hologram vanished.
Fighting a normal Geth Prime was definitely a lot easier than fighting the Terror Geth. As Tali had said, a single Geth had no more intelligence than a Varren and so they weren't' as smart as the Terror Geth had been. That also meant that they didn't have any advanced combat manoeuvres They just stood were they were, fired and hoped they killed their targets. As a result, they were quickly dispatched.
"Legion, in future keep the volume of your voice low when I'm whispering. You do understand how to keep quiet, don't you?" said Austin.
"We apologise, Shepard-Major. We had thought you were planning a surprise attack, not a stealth attack. We will learn from this mistake, it will not happen again."
"So what were those Geth doing?" Leena asked. "It looked as though they were trying to contact more Geth."
"There is no trace of the signal source they were communicating with. We are afraid it is impossible to find out." said Legion.
"There's bound to still be the evidence we need though." said Austin.
"Yes. This console is linked to the main hub Father mentioned. Disabling it shut down any Geth we missed." said Tali. "It looks like some of the recordings remained intact. They'll tell us how this happened. What Father did."
"You sound like you don't really want to hear it." said Austin.
'We have to, I know. I just... this is terrible, Austin. I don't want to know that he was part of this." said Tali.
The recording came up showing Rael and two other Quarian scientists.
"Do we have enough parts to bring more online?" Rael asked.
"Yes. The new shipment from your daughter will let us add two more Geth to the network." one of the scientists replied.
"We're nearing a breakthrough on systemic viral attacks. Perhaps we should inform the Admiralty Board, just be to be safe." the other suggested.
"No. We're too close. I promised to build my daughter a house on the homeworld. I'm not going to sit and wait while the Politicians argue." Rael objected.
"We'd have an easier time with it if Tali Zorah could send back more working material." said one of the scientists.
"Absolutely not! I don't want Tali exposed to any political blowback." Rael objected. "Leave Tali out of this. Assemble new Geth with what we have. Bypass security protocols if need be."
The recording finished. Tali was left lost for words.
"It sounds like he was doing this for you." Austin finally said, trying to reassure her a bit.
"I never wanted this, Austin. Keelah, I never wanted this. Everything here is his fault. I tried to pretend it didn't point to him, but this... when this comes up in the trial they'll... We can't tell them. Not the Admirals, not anybody." she said.
"Tali, without this evidence, you're looking at exile!" Austin objected.
"You think I don't know that?! You think I don't know that I want to live knowing that I can never see the Fleet again? But I can't go back into that room and say that my father was the worst war criminal in our people's history! I cannot!" said Tali.
"Rael Zorah doesn't need you to worry about him anymore. You hear him say he didn't want you to be caught in the politics!" said Austin.
"You don't' understand, Shepard." said Leena. "They would strike his name from the manifest of every ship he ever served on. He would be worse than an exile. He'd be a traitor to our people, held up for children as a monster in a cautionary tale!"
"I can't let all the good he did be destroyed for this, Austin." said Tali.
"We're not going to decide anything here. Let's see what the Admirals say once we get back." said Austin.
"You're my Captain in this hearing, Austin. It's you're decision. But please. Don't destroy what my father was." said Tali.
She then turned to Leena.
"Leena, I..."
"You said so yourself, Tali. It's Shepard's decision." said Leena. "I won't deny that I would tell the truth if it was my decision. But I guess that's me being too cold. If Shepard respects your decision, I won't say anything."
"I guess that's the best I can ask for." said Tali. She then turned back to Austin. "Come on. If we wait too long, they'll decide we're already dead, and none of this will matter."

Upon re-entering the Rayya, they could overhear the Admiral's voices.
"We need to face facts. There has been no word. There is no reason to think Tali Zorah survived." said Koris.
"It sounds like the hearing is already underway." said Tali.
"We must trust Shepard's offer of assistance. It's only been a few hours." said Shala.
"Leena was right. Springing the information about Rael on Tali… we practically dared her to take back the Alarei. We killed her." said Gerrel.
"A pity Shepard vas Normandy is a better speaker than a soldier. I recommend posthumously exiling Tali Zorah." said Koris.
"WHAT?!"
"It was agreed Tali Zorah would not be exiled where she killed in action!" Shala objected.
"It was suggested, Admiral. I recall no agreement. To that end I call for an immediate vote." said Koris.
They quickly hurried back into the conclave.
"Very well. Is the Admiralty board prepared to render judgement?" Shala asked.
Just in time, the group pushed throughout the crowd and once again stood before the board.
"Sorry we're late." said Tali sarcastically.
Leena also didn't seem too happy that the Admiral's had started without them.
"You didn't waste much time declaring us dead. Go get your ship!" she said.
"We apologise, Leena. Your success in taking back the Alarei is... very unexpected." Gerrel apologised.
"Tali Zorah saved the Alarei. I hope this proves her value to the Quarian people." said Austin.
"Her loyalty was never in doubt. Only her judgement." said Koris.
"Perhaps Tali Zorah can offer something to encourage more trust in her judgement." Shala suggested.
"Did you find anything on the Alarei that could clarify what happened there?" Gerrel asked.
Austin kept trying to think if there was any way of solving this. He could never betray Tali by revealing the truth, but at the same time, she didn't deserve to be exiled because of it.
"Austin... please..." Tali almost begged as the Helldiver stepped forward.
"Does Major Shepard have any new evidence to submit to this hearing?" Shala asked.
Austin remained silent for a long while. In the end, he knew he had no other choice. He finally spoke with his mind made up.
"We found nothing on the Alarei that we wish to submit as evidence." he said, doing his best to hide to sigh in his voice.
"Tali?" Gerrel asked.
"I have nothing to say." said Tali.
Austin sighed inside his helmet so that no one would hear. He felt bad about this. Like he'd let Tali down. There'd always been another way, a fair compromise. But not this time. His friend would never see her home or friends again.
Just before Shala could speak however, Leena suddenly stepped forward.
"Wait! I have something I wish to say." she said.
Shala nodded to her daughter, who then, rather surprisingly, turned to the crowd.
"Look at them, all of you! They don't care about Tali! All they care about is their war with the Geth!" she shouted. "Tali risked her life for all of you! On Haestrom, hell, on the Citadel when she stopped Saren! She deserves better than this!
"If Tali Zorah has no new evidence, I suggest we render judgment." said Koris.
Some of the crowd suddenly stood up in defiance. To Austin's amazement, Veetor suddenly stepped forward.
"Wait! Leena's right! Tali saved me! She doesn't deserve to be exiled!" he said.
Kal Reegar then joined in as well.
"Damn straight! Tali's done more for this fleet than you assholes ever will! You're pissing on everything I fought for, everything Tali fought for! So if you exile her... you might as well do the same to me." he said.
"Me too." Veetor agreed.
"Same here!" Leena agreed.
All three of the Admirals activated their omni tools. There was a brief silence, and then Shala spoke.
"Tali Zorah, in light of your history of service, we do not find sufficient evidence to convict. You are cleared of all charges." she said, almost with happiness.
Austin was left absolutely speechless. He could not believe that Leena had managed to pull that off. What's more, she had succeeded where he failed. It seemed that despite over 10 years of working together, he still had much to learn about his squad. They really were full of surprises.
"Major Shepard. Please accept these gifts in appreciation for you taking the time to represent one of our people." said Shala as she gave Austin several tech schematics. These would prove very useful for their mission.
"With all due respect, Admirals. He didn't represent one of ours, he represented one of his." said Leena.
"So he did, Leena." said Gerrel.
"If you appreciate me, then listen: The Reapers are coming. I'm gonna need your help to stop them. Please, don't throw lives away against the Geth." said Austin.
"Thank you, Major Shepard. I hope this board carefully considers your advice." said Koris.
Austin simply shook his head. That hadn't quite been the answer he'd been hoping for. Still, perhaps maybe that was a conversation for another time.
"This hearing is concluded. Go in peace Tali Zorah vas Normandy. Keelah se'lai." said Shala.
"Keelah se'lai." the crowd repeated.

"I just cannot believe that worked. How the hell did you do that?!" Austin asked.
"I guess we just got lucky." said Leena. Even she did seem a bit surprised herself that her speech to the crowd had worked.
"In my experience, there's no such thing as luck." said Austin. "You succeeded where I failed."
"You didn't fail me, Austin. You were going to respect my decision. I don't blame you for that." said Tali.
She then turned to Leena. "I can't believe you pulled that off. What you said... I've never had anyone speak like that in my behalf. Thank you for being there for my father and me, even when... thank you." she said gratefully.
Leena walked up to Tali and embraced her. Tali seemed to do the same.
"Your more than just a friend to me, Tali. You'll always be the little sister I never had." said Leena. "In fact seeing as my mother is you're Auntie, you are one in my eyes."
"I never thought though that you'd do that. I feared you'd either just remain silent or reveal the truth to the Admirals." said Tali.
"I still don't agree with what your father did, Tali. What he said, what he did was wrong, but... you don't deserve to be exiled for what he did. You deserved better. " said Leena.
"I got better, Leena. I got you, and Austin. I've never had truer friends."
"We can still go back in and get you exiled if you want." Austin joked, causing both Tali and Leena to chuckle.
"Thanks. But I'm fine with things like this. It's fun watching Helldivers shout." said Tali.
"Come on then, you two. Let's get back to work." Austin smiled.
"Thank you, Major." said Tali.
"Yes sir." said Leena.

"Veetor, I can't believe you stood up and spoke for me." said Tali.
"Oh, well, it's good Reegar was there. He said most of it." said Veetor bashfully.
"Veetor, thank you." Tali simply said.
"Oh, er... okay. And thank you, Shepard, for... for helping me and Tali both." said Veetor.
"Guess you just needed a pretty woman to help you feel better." said Austin.
"Well, maybe. Good luck, Tali and you too, Major." said Veetor.

"Kal, thank you. I can't believe you did that." said Tali gratefully.
"You'd have done the same for me, ma'am. Figured I had to say something when you didn't use that evidence you found on the Alarei." said Reegar.
"I didn't say anything about finding evidence, Kal." said Tali.
"Noticed that, ma'am." said Reegar.
"Any idea what your next assignment is going to be?" Austin asked.
"I'm going to be escorting more techs around to look for signs of dark energy build-up. Maybe see if they can figure out what's causing it. Wherever they send me, it'll be less exciting than Haestrom." Reegar replied.
"What's your take on the war? Are the Admirals going to try retake the homeworld?" Austin asked.
"I won't shy away from a fight, but if the Admirals throw the Fleet at the Geth, all they'll get back is scrap metal. The best bet would be for us to find another way. But a soldier can't say unless his superiors ask." said Reegar.
"I appreciate your help, Reegar. I don't know what we would've done if you and Veetor hadn't stood up to help me." said Leena, gratefully.
"I'm sure you would've figured something out. Good luck out there, ma'am." said Reegar.
"Kal, just call me Tali." said Tali.
"I'll work on that, ma'am." said Reegar.

"Very impressive speech, Major Shepard. But tell me truly, did you recover any of Rael Zorah's research on the Alarei?" Xen asked.
"Nothing that will help you, Admiral." said Tali.
"Pity. Ah, well. Whatever is created can be recreated. In any event, I am pleased that our talk regarding the war conundrum allowed you to help Tali. Her exile would have been unfortunate." said Xen.
"You should abandon your plans, Admiral. They're only going to make the situation worse." said Austin.
"We shall see, Major. Many things are impossible until they are done." said Xen.

"Damn fine speech, Leena. You called us on the carpet out there, and you were right. Thank you. Tali shouldn't have been involved in that argument. Tell me, though, honestly. What did you find over there? You spoke well, but I know a feint when I see it." said Gerrel.
"Off the record? Rael Zorah was bringing the Geth online and networking them for weapons tests." said Austin.
"Keelah!"
"You can never tell anyone, Han." said Tali.
"You have my word. I would've heard what your father wanted for the fleet. I'm just glad you didn't have to pay for his mistakes. Be well, Tali. Fly safe." said Gerrel.

"Very impressive, Leena. Shepard, thank you for your help on the Alarei. And thank you for helping Rael Zorah's daughter. You stood for her when we failed. We were wrong to let our own concerns about the war overshadow Tali's trial." said Zaal Koris.
"The galaxy needs more people saying what you're saying, Admiral. Good luck." said Austin.
"Thank you, Major." said the Admiral gratefully.

Shala was the last person to talk to since Austin felt it best for Leena to say a proper goodbye.
"The Admirals thought they were hoddling you by forcing you to represent her, Shepard. I'm glad they were wrong." she said. "You didn't mention survivors. Did you find Rael, Tali? I'm sure he would have left you a message if he'd had time." she asked.
"We found Rael's body. He left a message for Tali." said Austin.
"I can only imagine how horrible this is for you, child, but at least you got to hear your father tell you he loved you." said Shala sympathetically.
"Yes. Thank you, Shala." said Tali as she walked up to Shala and hugged her.
"Good luck on your mission. No matter how dark it gets, the Fleet is always with you. Keelah se'lai." said Shala.
Leena then hugged her mother as well. When they finally separated, Leena activated her omni tool and gave Shala her comm number.
"I'll call if I can. We've been apart for too long." said Leena.
"You don't need to give me this, Leena... but I'm glad you have. Yes, you are right. It has been a long time." said Shala.
"I'll be coming back from our mission, mother. You will see me again, I promise." said Leena.
"I know you will. But whatever happens, I'm so proud of you and I've never stopped loving all of these years." said Shala as she caressed the side of Leena's Helldiver helmet, the closest thing she could get to her cheek."
"I love you, mother."
"I love you too, Leena."
The two finally separated and Shala turned to Austin.
"Shepard. I know you have looked after both of them well, and it's wrong to ask even more of you. But please, keep them safe. I've finally seen Leena again after so many years and Tali has always been like a second daughter to me. I couldn't bear to lose either one of them." she said.
Austin bowed his head, putting his fist on his chest as he did so.
"You have my word, Shala. I intend for us all to live through this mission and come back alive. You'll see them both again, I promise." he said.
"Thank you, Shepard. It warms my heart to know that they are in good hands. They chose their Captain well." Shala smiled as and Austin shook hands.
"Farewell, Shala."
"Keelah se'lai, Major Shepard."

Austin went down to the engineering deck to check on Tali, just to be sure she was alright. She was at her usual spot and still working, but she seemed happy.
"Keelah, I'm sorry I dragged you into Quarian politics. All that infighting, seeing what my father did… You and Leena were the only ones there for me, Austin – the only cover I had against the storm. Thank you." She said.
"I imagine they're trying to fill your father's spot on the Admiralty Board. What will that do to the balance of power?" Austin asked.
"I have no idea. Being exiled might have made it easier. A few people are suggesting me as a candidate. Replacing an Admiral takes time, though. You may not have noticed, but Quarians like to debate." Said Tali.
"Are Quarians politics always like that?" Austin asked.
"No. Sometimes it can actually get unpleasant. We're a very social people, Austin. We have to be, to make up for being stuck in these suits. And part of that means getting involved in each other's business." Tali replied.
"The whole trial was insulting. You should have had time to mourn your father." Said Austin.
"I don't think life is about what you deserve. But my father would be honoured that I chose to mourn him by blowing up a lot of Geth." Said Tali, smiling under her helmet. "I should get back to work. But thanks for checking on me."

Legion's mission is the last on left!
Now, two things I'd like to say.
1. Read project Overlord again and tell me if the red eye you've seen in this chapter seemed familiar at all.
2. Dark Energy, which Tali and Reegar mentioned will be featured in my version of ME3. I've even come up with a good idea which resolves the plot hole of Haestrom's sun.
From what my good friend LegionaryPrime, told me, it was meant to be in the game, and Dark Energy was even part of the ending, but they changed it after one of the writers left. Prime told me what the Dark Energy ending involved, and (I never thought I'd say this) I actually prefer the endings we have to that one.
Anyway (getting a bit off topic here) what I'm trying to say is that Dark Energy won't be in my ME3 ending, but it will play a role in the story. Specifically, during the Rannoch war with the Terror Geth. A select few of you already know the details, but for those who don't, let me tell you it will be cool!
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Mass Effect: The Helldiver Saga, The Collector War