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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
- 6
- 7
- 8
Would like to quickly stress that just in case this does get taken down, if you want me to reply to your reviews, write them on the Deviantart version. Somehow I can't seem to reply to the ones on AdultFanFiction, but I can on Deviantart. So use that one for answering questions and such.
Enjoy the chapter. This one will contain character development for Sill and Griffin and also a sword fight.

Chapter 7
Off Duty Distractions
Austin, Liara and Garrus disembarked from the Normandy onto the Citadel. They were here to get one or two resupplies, recruit Kasumi Goto and also to see Councillor Anderson since Austin had received a message from him recently.
As they entered the wards, one of the advertisements came to life. The image showed a Japanese woman in a black hood.
"Major Shepard. Enter the password and receive a free gift!" It said.
Austin knew from the message that this was Kasumi. We walked up to the holo and it took notice of him.
"Please tell me your password, Major Shepard." Said Kasumi.
"Silence is golden." Said Austin.
"Good to finally meet you, Major Shepard. Kasumi Goto. I'm a fan." Said Kasumi.
"What's with the password and the sneaking around? Are you in trouble or something?" Austin asked. He did his best not to sound suspicious or rude.
"I'm the best thief in the business, not the most famous. Need to watch my step to keep it that way. I also needed to make sure all this was legit. And I have no doubt now – you're the real Major Austin Shepard" Said Kasumi
"What makes you so sure? How do you I'm not another Helldiver who has the same armour configuration?" Austin asked in a joking manner.
"There's a certain… aura about you. Like you've seen things no one else has. Even without knowing what you look like, I knew it was you." Said Kasumi.
"Have you been filled in on the mission?" Austin asked.
"Honestly, I'm shocked I wasn't contacted sooner. My fault for being hard to find I guess." Said Kasumi.
"So what brought you to the Helldivers?" Austin asked.
"That's a very interesting story. I'm actually an old acquaintance of theirs. I was contacted several times by them to steal some important schematics or information. I've also been a regular contact of your information broker, Xun. She and I are very good friends. She actually recommended me personally for this mission. Plus, I had a thing I needed help with, so I made the deal. And here we are." Said Kasumi.
"I assume this deal is something I should know about?" Austin asked.
"Yeah, I guess it slipped their minds. I'm looking for my old partner's graybox. A named Donovan Hock took it, and I'm planning to get it back." Said Kasumi
"I've heard of Grayboxs. Stores memories, if I'm correct. They're supposed to be illegal." Austin teased.
"You're smarter than I thought, Shepard. This one in particular belonged to my partner Keiji Okuda. We worked together for a long time, before Hock killed him." said Kasumi.
"I'm sorry to hear that. Well, if that's what you were promised, we'll get it done." said Austin.
"It'll be fun. And if we're lucky, you won't even have to draw your gun." said Kasumi.
The advertisement disappeared into the floor. Austin then spotted Kasumi standing on top of the next floor.
"We should probably wrap this up. You look pretty silly standing there talking to an advertisement. See you on the ship, Shepard." she said.
With that, she turned and then disappeared.
"She has a cloak?" Liara asked.
"Probably a gift from Xun." Austin suggested. "Anyway, let's get moving. We have a meeting to attend."
Having taken care of that business, their next stop was the Presidium. In order to get there they had to go through the C-sec station to get to the Wards. As they approached the door the scanners went over them. There was a beep and an alarm sound.
"Looks like they've tightened up security." said Garrus.
The Turian C-sec officer that handled the scanners typed at his console before speaking into the communicator in his ear.
"Shut it down! What? Do you seriously think... yeah, okay." he said. He then turned to Austin.
"Sorry for the inconvenience, sir. Our scans are picking up false readings. They seem to think you're, ah, dead." he apologised.
"It's part of my mission. Very covert and top secret. Is there any way we can work this out?" Austin asked. It would be better if the Collectors still didn't know that he had returned from the dead and was now on to them.
"My Commander can sort this out for you. Talk to him." said the C-sec officer.
The doors opened and the Helldivers found themselves in the C-sec station. Austin then saw a very familiar face sat at a desk.
"Major Shepard. It's been too long. I don't suppose you remember me. Captain Armando Owen Bailey. We fought together during the battle of the Citadel." said Bailey.
"Oh yes. I remember you. Good to see you again, Bailey. Sounds like you've been promoted." said Austin warmly.
"As have you. A Major in just two years. That's something. Anyway, I see the problem already. My console says you're dead. "said Bailey.
"You're not worried I'm some imposter claiming to be me who happens to have the same Helldiver armour?" Austin joked.
"After the battle of the Citadel the Arkanes lent some of their outdated but still advanced technology to us. We have the second best screening equipment in the galaxy. Those scanners can sample DNA from skin flakes. Hell, if you have unregistered gene mods, they can even figure those out." Said Bailey.
"I see. Anyway, I need my ID to stay that dead. My mission requires a lot of secrecy and I need to keep a low profile. So for now, don't change it." said Austin.
"You're the boss." said Bailey. The C-sec officer typed a command into the console he was sat in front of. "I just put a block in the system. Officially, you still don't exist, and you won't get hassled by the security checkpoints. You should head up the Presidium though. The Council would probably like to know that one of their lost Spectres is still kicking."
"We'll see about that. Technically I'm not a Spectre anymore. My rank was revoked before the Reaper attack." said Austin.
"Whatever you say. Now, is there anything else you need? Or can I get back to work?" Bailey asked.
"That'll be all. Thanks, Bailey." said Austin.
"If you need anything else, let me know." said Bailey.

The Presidium had seen a few changes in the past two where now more C-sec guards than before and a few places had been remodelled.
Austin, Liara and Garrus headed for the human embassy. Austin had to admit that he was not looking forward to this. Not only would he have to explain everything to Anderson, but also he would have to explain why he hadn't tried to reinstate into the Alliance, and even why he was still showing up as dead.
As the group neared the embassy, they could hear voices.
"This meeting would be more productive if Udina was to join us." he heard a female voice say. Austin recognised that voice as the Asari Councillor, Tevos.
Then Austin heard Anderson's voice. "My advisor is unavailable. As Councillor, I represent the voice of humanity and the Alliance. Shepard will be here any..." he was interrupted when the door opened and the Helldivers walked in. "Oh, Captain! We were just talking about you." he greeted.
"So I heard. And it's Major now." Austin corrected.
"Congratulations, Shepard. It's good to see you again." said Anderson.
"You said you wanted to see me. I didn't realise they'd be here." Austin said coldly as he indicated to the Council holograms. The other two Councillors included the Turian Councillor, Sparatus, and the Salarian Councillor, Valern. They looked less than pleased to see him. Not that Austin had expected anything else, he and the Council hadn't always seen eye to eye, nor where they the best of friends with the Helldivers.
"We've heard many rumours surrounding your unexpected return. Some of them are... unsettling." said Valern.
"We called this meeting so you could explain yourself, Shepard. After all you saved our lives in the war against Saren and his Geth." said Tevos.
"The Collectors are abducting human colonies in the Terminus Systems. Worse, we have firm reason to believe they're working for the Reapers." said Austin.
"The Terminus Systems are beyond our jurisdiction. You're colonists knew this when they left Council space." said Sparatus angrily.
"Nothing's changed." Austin sighed in his head.
"You're missing the important part, Councillor. The Reapers are involved." said Anderson.
"Ah, yes. "Reapers" The sentient race of immortal ships allegedly waiting in dark space. We have dismissed that claim." said Sparatus.
"How unsurprising." said Austin.
"Watch your mouth, Shepard!" said Valern angrily.
"I don't answer to you anymore! My only allegiance is to the Arkanes!" said Austin. "Besides, they believe me. What more do you want?"
"They may be foolish enough to believe your story, but they still have no firm proof that this wild myth of yours is even mentioned." said Sparatus.
Anderson turned to Austin. "Shepard, only you encountered the hologram on Ilos that told you about the Reapers. Only you and your crew ever spoke with Sovereign. I believe you, but without evidence from another source, the others think Saren was behind the Geth attacks." he said.
"Well, I guess I'll have to do this without your help, again!" said Austin coldly.
"We are in a difficult position, Major. You have refused to reinstate back into the Alliance and therefore no longer fall under our jurisdiction. That makes you a risk. And then there are the reports of you working for Cerberus." said Tevos.
"What? What reports?" Austin asked in surprise.
Anderson once again turned to Austin.
"There has been recent Intel from the Alliance that says that you've been working for Cerberus ever since you returned." said Anderson. "I refused to believe it, but the Council had different opinions."
Austin immediately walked closer to the Council.
"These reports are false rumours by Cerberus! They're trying to turn you against me!" said Austin defiantly. "And I'll prove I'm not with Cerberus!"
Austin typed at his omni tool and uploaded all the Intel on Cerberus that EDI had provided. The Council looked surprised by this.
"This is very firm evidence. It proves that you are not affiliated with Cerberus." said Tevos.
"But there is still the fact that Shepard is operating outside of our knowledge. He'll just end up triggering a war with the Terminus Systems!" Sparatus objected.
"I hate that guy!" Austin groaned in his head.
"That's too far! Shepard is a hero! I'm on this council too and I won't let this whitewash continue!" said Anderson defiantly.
"Maybe there is a compromise. Not a public acknowledgement given the secrecy of your mission, but something that shows peripheral support." Tevos suggested.
"Shepard, if you keep a low profile and restrict your operations to the Terminus Systems, the Council is willing to offer you reinstatement as a Spectre." said Sparatus.
"What does that mean? Will I have to start filing reports? Because those are classified for the Arkane Council only!" said Austin.
"That won't be necessary. This is a good show of faith on our behalf." said Valern.
"We cannot become involved in an investigation regarding the missing colonists in the Terminus Systems, but Spectre reinstatement shows our support of you personally." said Tevos.
"Well I don't care if it's a good deal; I'm not having that Spectre rank back! I hated that job!" Austin thought. He didn't want to sound rude about it though. He decided to decline politely.
"I appreciate the offer, Councillors. But I don't want it. Besides, my investigation may not forever be restricted to just the Terminus Systems. The Collectors could eventually attack colonies in your territory, and if they do, I will stop them. So thank you, but no thank you." he said.
Despite sounding polite about it though, the Council did not look happy.
"We've tried to be reasonable." said Tevos.
"Clearly a mistake! If your Helldiver actions become a danger to the safety of the Council space, we will take action!" said Sparatus angrily.
"Watch your step, Major. You've been warned." said Valern.
The holograms of the Council vanished, leaving just Anderson, Austin, Liara and Garrus.
"Well, that didn't go as I expected. " said Anderson.
"I never wanted to be a Spectre in the first place, and the Council just kept holding me back. They said so themselves, I don't answer to them anymore." said Austin.
"True. I just hope that the Alliance doesn't start seeing you in the same light. Don't worry about the Council. I'll find some way to keep them off your back. Shouldn't be too hard, as long as the attacks stay in the Terminus systems. And don't worry about the Alliance, they'll be fully supportive of you looking after our colonies." said Anderson.
At that moment, the door opened and Ambassador Udina stepped in. Austin groaned at seeing him. Udina was the last person he wanted to see now.
"Anderson, we need to talk about... Shepard. What are you doing here?" Udina asked in surprise as he saw the Helldiver.
"I don't think that's any of your business, Udina. Besides, what do you care?" Austin replied.
"I'd heard you were alive, but I didn't expect to see you back on the Citadel." said Udina. He then turned to Anderson.
"I invited Shepard here to speak with the Council. We just finished our meeting." Anderson explained.
"You what? Councillor, do the words political shit-storm mean anything to you?" Udina asked angrily.
"The Council offered to reinstate my Spectre status. I turned it down." said Austin.
"Humanities first and only Spectre and you quit? You Helldivers are all the same! You charge in head first with no consideration for the long term consequences!" said Udina.
"You know, I'm now ready to punch someone, and you're too close." Austin threated.
"We don't answer to you, Udina. Why don't you go to your office and think about that for a while." said Anderson.
"Of course, Councillor. Good day, to both of you." said Udina coldly as he left the room.
"I swear, one of these days I'm gonna kill him." Austin groaned.
"Sorry about that. Udina's never gotten over the fact that I got the Council position instead of him. Sometimes I need to put him in his place." Anderson apologised.
"Then what the hell do you keep him around for?" Austin asked.
Anderson turned and walked over to the balcony that overlooked the Presidium.
"He's got his uses, and if you want something done on the Citadel, Udina's the one to talk to. Plus, he's happy to attend all those diplomatic functions I can't be bothered with." said Anderson.
"How have the last couple of years treated you?" Austin asked.
"Serving on the Council isn't how I planned to spend my twilight years. Sometimes it feels like I'm just beating my head against a wall. Knowing the truth about Sovereign is brutal. Its nightmare stuff. Can't blame the others for not wanting to believe it. But I know how important it is, so I keep trying. Fight the good fight, right?" said Anderson.
"So, how long did it take to get this place back up to speed after the battle?" Austin asked.
"Still counting. The main areas of commerce and the most populated wards are complete, but estimates for total restoration are sitting around five years. The Keepers always surprise us, though. It's like our repairs are annoying. We'll put up an ugly new bulkhead and in a few days they've made it seamless. We never really thought of them as heavy lifters, and I have no idea where they get the resources, but we'd never get done without them." Said Anderson.
"What happened to Ashley Williams after the Normandy was destroyed?" Austin asked. He reckoned Anderson would shed some more light on what had happened to his childhood friend.
"Operations Chief Williams is still with the Alliance, but she's working on a special mission. It's classified. Since you're no longer part of the Alliance, I can't say anymore. I'm sorry." Said Anderson.
"I better go." Said Austin.
"Of course, Shepard. I understand. I wish I could do more to help you, but if you ever want to talk, I'll be here. Just do me a favour and be careful. Who knows where this mission will take you." Said Anderson.

Austin had decided to not leave the Citadel instantly, even though they had done all that they had come here for, for now. He had given everyone a small bit of shore leave and had told them to get some rest and try and have a bit of fun.
Austin proceeded into the living areas of the Presidium where most of the apartments where. Ever since their victory over the Batarians all those years ago, Alpha Squad had been given their own personal apartment that was only ever accessible to them. They'd since converted it into an almost home away from home. It had a bar with drinks, a pool table and lots of other things designed for off duty enjoyment.
As Austin walked in he could already see that Alpha Squad and some of the team had wasted no time in making use of their free time.
Dell was currently sat at a nearby table and was busy chatting with Mordin; Sill was sat at a separate table on her own and had what appeared to be a sketch pad of some kind. Liara meanwhile was stood against the pool table and was keenly observing the card game that the rest of Alpha Squad where currently playing. Austin couldn't help but chuckle when he saw that Dash was playing as well. He would've thought that they'd all learned by well. Even Griffin was playing. The demolition expert had his helmet off which showed his face.
The Helldiver had few burns and marks on his face along with a few scars obviously from the explosives he handled. He had very short black hair and a stubble and green eyes.
Austin was glad though that Griffin was settling in so well. From what Alaara had told him, Griffin had at first found it difficult to really get to know the rest of the squad, despite having worked with them for nearly a year now. These days however, he was getting better at it. This card game in particular was proof of that.
Austin was curious to see what Sill was doing and he walked up to the young Arkane. At first, she didn't notice him. Austin cleared his throat and that got Sill's attention.
"Oh, hello, Major. I didn't see you there." she said warmly. She extended out her free hand and Austin shook it.
"You looked a bit lonely over here. Thought we could chat for a bit." Austin suggested.
"Sure. Please, have a seat." said Sill.
Austin sat down next to Sill and looked at what she was doing. She appeared to be doing a sketch of the view of the Presidium in front of her. It was still half finished but it looked very good.
"You're an artist as well?" Austin asked.
"What, this? Nah! It's just a hobby. Really puts my mind at peace. But I do put these drawing skills to good use. Dad always has me draw the blueprints and design the schematics for our inventions." said Sill. She alternated her gaze between the drawing and making eye contact with Austin.
"How long have you actually worked with your father?" Austin inquired.
"Almost 110 years. Dad's always been a real grease monkey. Ever since I was four, he taught me everything about taking something apart and putting it back together again. When I was a little girl he used to buy me these little toy models for my birthday. They were made so that they could be built, then taken apart and then put back together again. It was so much fun." said Sill.
"It's nice that you do something you love doing as a job." said Austin.
"Yep! Dad's always told me that he's been so proud." Sill smiled as she continued drawing.
"What about your mother? You and Dell haven't really said anything about her." Austin asked.
"Mom's a teacher for the Helldivers. Uthenra Arturus? Perhaps you've heard of her?" Sill asked.
"Oh yes! She teaches political and social correctness, right?" Austin asked.
Sill nodded. "She often asks "where would the Helldivers be without us?"
"I don't mean to be rude, but... your dad. Has he always been...?" Austin asked, pausing as he tried to think up an appropriate word.
Sill however could guess what he was trying to ask. "Accident prone?"
"Well, I wouldn't say that... more sort of... clumsy." said Austin. "Don't get me wrong though. Your dad's brilliant! Hell, he was one of the seven Arkanes that made the Helldivers. It just surprises me that he's a bit clumsy from time to time."
"Well, Dad loves his job so much. Sometimes he just gets a bit... overexcited and it sometimes gets the better of him. He doesn't seem to mind though. One time, he had this crazy idea of making a slime gun for a party. He made it, but it blew a fuse on the first test run and went into a frenzy. By the time I turned it off, Dad was covered in slime. Despite this though, he still had a smile on his face and he found the whole thing funny. He enjoys watching people laugh and he laughs along with them. He always likes to look on the bright side of things, something he passed on to me. Take happiness wherever you can find it, and enjoy your life." said Sill.
"That's a very positive attitude." said Austin warmly.
"What can I say? Us engineers usually are." said Sill as she smiled. The Arkane then finished her sketch and showed it to Austin. "What do you think?"
Austin took the sketch in his hands and looked at it closely. The attention to detail that Sill had included was brilliant. The shading also really brought certain areas to life. If it had colour, it would look perfect. Austin's eye widened in surprise.
"It's good. Very good in fact. You've got some talent." he said. He then turned some the pages in the sketch book, showing some of the other drawings that Sill had done. "No wonder Dell has you do schematics. These are fabulous!"
Sill couldn't help but blush slightly. The Major was too kind.
"Thank you, Shepard. It's nice to have a Helldiver say good things about my work. Some are often too much by the book and have far too cold manners. You're completely different." she said.
"You don't earn friends just through respect. Show 'em what you're really like, and they'll see you as a friend." Austin smiled back. "Anyway, I should go. It was nice talking with you, Sill."
"Likewise, Shepard. It was good to get to know you better. Let's do it again sometime." Sill smiled as she took out some schematic drawings and began noting downs some new ideas.
Austin then stood next to Liara and put his arm around her warmly as they both watched Alpha Squad's card game. Austin already knew who was going to win.
"Glad to see they're already enjoying themselves." said Austin as he hugged Liara to him a bit more. The Asari smiled at her bond mate's happy expression.
At that moment, Austin's predictions where correct and Dash drew the winning move.
"Yes! Yes! That's how you play a game of cards!" said the young Helldiver triumphantly.
The rest of Alpha Squad gave happy sighs but at the same time, laughed at losing again. It hadn't been the first time they had lost to Dash. For Griffin, this was a new experience, but he still kept a smile up. The game had still been enjoyable.
"Word to the wise, Griffin. Never play Dash, especially for money. He's an absolute demon." Austin chuckled.
"Ha! And that's why you all love me." said Dash as he sat back in his seat. Kraan, who'd been sat next to him, gave him a friendly nudge on the shoulder.
Griffin stood up and went over to the bar where he ordered a drink. Austin planned to chat with him.
"I have something to ask you, Austin." said Liara.
"I'm listening." said Austin as he looked at his girlfriend.
"Remember two years ago when you gave me a small lesson on fencing?" Liara.
It was then that Austin noticed the sword strapped to Liara's left hip. It was the exact same one that he had given her when he had taught her.
"Let me read your mind. You've been training for the past ten years and you want to spar with me?" Austin asked.
Liara smiled and nodded.
"Well, I don't see why not. We're on leave so..." said Austin.
"Meet me back at the Normandy later." said Liara as she turned to leave the room.
"Where are you going?" Austin asked.
"To slip into something a bit better. I'll also be practicing." said Liara as she left the room.
Austin decided that now was as good a time as any and stood next to Griffin at the bar. He himself ordered a drink too.
"You alright?" he asked.
"Yeah. Thanks for asking." said Griffin cheerfully.
"So what's your story? I always like to know my squad." said Austin.
"Haven't you read my service record?" Griffin asked.
"Not much. It's better to actually hear it from the person themselves." Austin replied.
"Well I guess there's no harm in it." said Griffin. The demolition expert ordered another drink and sat on one the stools. Austin did the same.
"Well, I was born and raised on Omega. It was tough environment, but I learned to look out for myself. I originally worked as a Blue Suns merc, but that didn't really work out. Gangs are just nothing but trouble." said Griffin.
"So what led you to the Helldivers?" Austin inquired.
"I enlisted into the Helldivers when I was eighteen." Griffin's voice then dropped to a whisper. "Well, between you and me, it was actually seventeen. I hated Omega too much. Couldn't stand to wait another year before joining. Got an old friend to fake my age and now, here I am." For a moment Griffin looked concerned. "You're not gonna report me are you?"
"Don't worry, Alex. Your secret's safe with me." said Austin before he took sip of his drink. "We all have our little secrets. Nobody's perfect, not even this squad."
"They're an interesting bunch. But it's amazing how similar we are all are underneath. The lord is full of surprises." said Griffin.
"What do you say?" Austin asked. He wasn't sure if he'd heard that right.
"I believe in God. I don't really care if people say otherwise. That's not a problem, is it?" Griffin asked. It was defensive though. It was obvious that the Helldiver wasn't afraid to stand up for what he believed in.
"Are you threatening me, Griffin?" Austin asked in a challenging manner. This was starting to get interesting.
"Like I said, I grew up on Omega. I've had many years to learn to fight dirty. Plus, I may be new to this squad, but I'm no rookie." said Griffin.
"You're brave and confident. Especially to stand up to me. I like that in a soldier. You may be just what Alpha needs." Austin smiled. He admired bravery and confidence in soldiers. The fact that Griffin had stood up to him showed that this guy was no pushover. Austin raised his glass. Griffin got the message and clinked it against Austin's.
"Nice to know I've made a good first impression, sir." said Griffin.
"Don't call me that. Alpha Squad isn't as strict as some might think. We're all friends here, Alex. Just call me Shepard." said Austin.
Griffin seemed to smile slightly.
"Alright... Shepard." he said. After a brief pause, the demolition expert spoke again. "I have a question for you."
"Ask away, Alex." said Austin.
"I've noticed the way you and Commander T'soni look at one another. Are you two...?" Griffin asked.
"Yeah. We are." said Austin. He didn't even hesitate to say that. Not only was he not afraid of people knowing about his relationship with Liara, but it also told others that Liara was off limits. He had a feeling that griffin might have asked this to try and know if he had a chance. Still, it was good of the Helldiver to ask, rather than just assume.
"You're a lucky guy, Shepard. T'soni's a fine woman. I'm happy for you both." Griffin smiled as he ordered another drink. "It's nice to know that something like love can still flourish under such dark times. Can we expect it to be more than that?"
At first, Austin was unsure on what to say, but he quickly regained his composure.
"I certainly hope so. I love Liara deeply, and one day I hope to marry her. Hopefully even start a family." said Austin.
"Really? Well then, I'll look forward to the wedding." said Griffin. "Liara T'soni Shepard. I think it has good ring to it."
"Thanks, Alex." said Austin. "Cheers!" he said as he raised his glass.
"Cheers!" Griffin repeated.

Austin left everyone to their time off and headed back to the Normandy where Liara would be. As he re-entered the CIC he found Kelly still at her desk.
"Still working, Kelly?" he asked.
"I had something I really needed to finish." Kelly replied. "Why are you back so early?"
"I'm doing a bit of sparring with Liara. Fencing." Austin replied.
"I see. In that case, good luck, Shepard." said Kelly.
"Before I go, what do you think of the two newest additions we have on the team?" Austin asked.
"Well, that Kasumi is an interesting addition to the crew. I can see why she's good at her work... she never reveals anything meaningful about herself. It's all on the surface. It'll be a challenge getting to know who she really is." said Kelly.
"Time will tell." said Austin.
"Yeah. I guess so. Anyway, have fun with Commander T'soni, Major." said Kelly, and the Yeoman went back to her work.

Austin walked out of the elevator and found Liara was waiting for him. She was currently practicing on the large circular platform that was now the simulator that Dell and Sill had recently finished. The two Arkanes had worked methodically on the machine and had managed to finish in just under a day or so. Dell had told Austin that he hadn't fully tested it yet, but that it was online and fully operational. That gave Austin an idea.
Without startling his girlfriend, Austin walked up to Liara and grasped her from behind. Having expected him, Liara didn't seem to be surprised and merely lay back against him as he caressed her armoured stomach.
"I was wondering when you'd show." she said as she kissed her bond mate.
"Good to see that you still have the same sword I gave you." said Austin.
"It was one of the only things I had left of you when you died." said Liara. "Anyway, shall we?"
"Before we do, I thought we might make things more interesting." said Austin suggestively.
"What did you have in mind, my love?" Liara asked. "Have me tear all my armour off and fight you naked?" she laughed.
"No. While that would be very hot, no. I thought we might have a change of scenery and use the simulator for the first time." Austin replied.
The part of Liara's skin pigment which was designed to resemble an eye brow pricked up in interest.
"You sure it's safe? Dell and Sill have only just finished it." said Liara cautiously.
"Dell told me it's working. He just has yet to do a proper run. Think of it as... helping him out." said Austin.
"You're quite the rouge, Austin. This bold attitude of yours will get you anywhere." said Liara.
"Perhaps even somewhere with you tonight?" Austin asked.
"That depends on whether you win." Liara teased.
Austin smiled slyly as he set up the necessary information for the simulation. He decided to set in the ruins of a castle on the top of a high rocky mountain. He then put in the necessary weather conditions and everything else. He then pressed the button and stepped onto the pad with Liara.
There was low hum as the simulator's massive arms came to life and began to project images everywhere. More and more appeared and then the whole cargo bay around them seemed to change and morph into ripples until it finally settled down and the entire scenery had completely changed. They both looked around and admired the place that would be their battle ground.
"This is nice and peaceful." said Liara.
"I thought I'd be nice to have plenty of good scenery for what's hopefully going to be a good duel." said Austin. He drew Excalibur out of its holster and held it in his left hand. He'd try and see how good Liara was with that hand first. If he used his right, it could be over too quickly. He noticed Liara seemed to be holding hers left handed. Austin guessed that his girlfriend was opposite to him. This would be interesting.
"Ready then, my love?" Liara asked as she went into a fighting stance.
"Absolutely! En garde." said Austin.
Liara attacked first with several quick strikes that Austin managed to block easily. Austin then attacked back, forcing Liara to back away slightly as she countered Excalibur's strikes. When she parried the last she then swung several times, forcing Austin to back away slightly in surprise. Austin smiled slightly and attacked again. Liara however easily countered the attack, moving Austin's sword to one side. Liara then made a thrust at Austin but he too parried the attack and flung her sword aside.
Both opponents took a moment to relax. That hadn't been bad for the first bit.
"You certainly know what you're doing, Liara. Excellent form." said Austin.
Both blades then met again and the two looked seriously at one another.
"But how's your footwork?" Austin asked, deciding to try a different tactic. "If I step here..."
Austin moved his foot over the other as he made several swings at Liara. The Asari however simply mirrored his movements perfectly and blocked each one. She then swung a few attacks as well. Austin blocked those. They then stopped for a minute. Liara was even better at this than Austin had anticipated.
"Very good. And now I step again..." said Austin.
The Helldiver made another fast move around Liara which she quickly parried. Within seconds, both opponents' places had been switched as they both struck and parried one another.
The two once again broke for a breather.
"Impressive. Most impressive, Liara. I think we're warmed up now." said Austin.
Liara smiled and readied for another fight.
A swing form Austin sword made Liara jump back onto lower ground. Despite this though, she still blocked, countered and parried all of Austin incoming blows.
"You are wonderful." she said.
"Thank you. I've worked hard to become so." said Austin. He once again made another lunge at Liara, but the Asari dodged the blow and back away slightly so that she had more room.
"I admit it, you are better than I am." she said as she blocked another attack.
"Then why are you smiling?" Austin asked.
"Because you've clearly forgotten something, my love." said Liara confidently.
"Which is?"
"I am not left handed." said Liara. Before Austin even realised it, Liara's blade instantly shifted from her left hand to her right. Things really changed after that. Now using her proper blade arm, Liara's attacks where much faster and more coordinated. Austin cursed himself slightly for forgetting that Liara had fought with her right hand when he had first taught her two years ago.
Austin quickly adjusted his strategy and jumped over one of Liara's low sweeps. He landed to the side on a flight of stairs.
"Let's take this to higher ground." Austin thought.
Liara thrust several times at Austin as she pushed him back up the stairs. Austin however let her. Once they were at the top, he could use his defence to attack. Liara's fighting moves however where very fierce. Despite this though, she seemed to keep calm and didn't let her anger power her attacks. Zartrack had after all taught all his students to never attack in anger.
At that moment, Austin got his timing wrong and his right leg lost its balance on one of the steps. Liara took this opportunity and made several more thrust. Just in time though, Austin brought his blade up and pushed hard against one of the attacks, pushing Liara back. Quickly using what time he had, Austin quickly got back just as Liara made another swing at his leg, which he parried instantly.
Liara continued pushing her boyfriend up the stairs as she delivered attack after attack at Austin. Finally the two opponents reached the top and where both on level ground again.
"You're amazing." said Austin as he finally returned the attacks and swung at Liara.
"I ought to be after Zartrack taught me for two years." said Liara. She then made a cleverly quick thrust which Austin swung at to block but missed, causing his blade to end up too far to the side. Liara seized the chance and pinned the blade down and brought herself right up close to Austin, forcing him over the edge of the ruined wall slightly.
"Well theirs something I ought to remind you, Liara." Austin grunted as he tried to push Liara off him. Several loose rocks fell away as Liara's enhanced Helldiver strength kept pushing on him. Even with his own suit, it was difficult and he had to put all his own strength into to avoiding her pushing him over the edge.
"And what is that?" Liara asked, now sounding certain that she'd won.
"I'm not left handed either." said Austin. Using Liara's distraction he summoned up all his strength and pushed her off.
Now free, Austin threw his sword up in the air and caught it. This time in his right hand. Now things where getting very interesting. Both opponents where now using every trick and move they knew and still neither was gaining an advantage. Austin reckoned that Zartrack would definitely be impressed if he could see this.
Austin made a hard and strong thrust at Liara which she only just parried. She then made her own lunge, but she hadn't counted on Austin being fast enough and he parried her blade in two full circles causing her to lose her grip and her sword went flying all the way back down to where they'd started.
Austin held his blade up in line with Liara, but the Asari refused to be beaten. She quickly jumped and swung once on a nearby pole between two pillars. She then let go and landed on her feet. She did a roll and picked her sword back up. The Asari swirled back around and waited for Austin to try and jump down. To her surprise, Austin sheathed his sword and jumped at the pole. To her shock he then did two full circle swings before finally letting go and landing on the ground. As he did, he unsheathed Excalibur again.
"Now that's showing off." Liara chuckled.
Austin smiled under his helmet and swung at Liara again. The two swordsmen exchanged a flurry of lows, parries, and feints. The two then clashed together and ended up in blade lock. Both forced themselves against one another as they tried to push each other away. Both their locked blades where brought down to chest level and they both looked at each other's helmets through the cross of the blades. Liara then saw an opening and trod rather hard on Austin's foot causing to back away and break the lock. Liara spun and lunged at Austin. The Helldiver however dodged the attack and used the very brief moment to his advantage. Using all the enhanced strength he could find in his body and his suit he swung Excalibur upwards. His blade had such force that it hit Liara's blade hard and she lost her grip. Her blade went flying in the air and Austin caught it in his free hand.
Liara stood back, amazed at her boyfriend. Both Helldivers retracted their helmets and relaxed.
"In all my life, I've never seen anyone fight that well. Apart maybe from Zartrack." Austin smiled as he panted.
"You're not so bad yourself, Austin. The past two years hasn't weakened you at all." said Liara.
"Now, I believe you said there'd be a reward for me if I won?" Austin asked.
"End simulation!" Liara said.
The whole environment around them once again flickered and they found themselves back in the cargo bay of the Normandy. Liara then smiled at Austin.
"I'll be waiting in your quarters." Liara winked. Austin threw Liara's sword to her and she caught it. The Asari then made for the elevator, seductively swinging her hips as she went. Austin simply smirked to himself. He'd look forward to tonight.

Shadow stood on the deck of the ship she had commissioned for hunting down Shepard. The Phantom looked out into the deep, empty void of space. All she could think about though, was the Helldiver she was tracking. Ever since the incident on the Lazarus station, all she could think about now was driving her blade through the Helldivers heart.
Her contemplation was then interrupted by Miranda and Jacob who had just returned from Omega.
"What did you find?" she asked in her cold voice.
"The beat us to it. They have Mordin Solus with them." Jacob answered.
Rage filled the Phantom's face. With cat like reflexes she pinned Jacob to the ground with her foot on his neck.
"Azula, no!" Miranda objected. Before she could do anything though, Shadow swiped her hard across the face, sending her to the floor.
"I give you one thing to do! One thing to do, and you let Shepard slip through your fingers again?" Shadow shouted. The neural implants on her face glowed fiery red from her anger, and her badly damaged scars seemed grow slightly. Shadow looked terrible.
"It wasn't our fault, Azula. Cerberus isn't very welcome on Omega. We had to keep a low profile.
Shadow simply growled and slowly stopped strangling Jacob with her foot.
"Go! Get out of my sight!" she said.
Jacob turned to leave without hesitation. Miranda however stood her ground.
"The more brutal you are, you the more likely you'll get us killed, Azula." Miranda said as she spat a bit of blood from Shadow's punch.
"As long as Shepard dies, I care not." said Shadow.
"The orders are to take Shepard alive!" Miranda objected.
"The orders are to take him down, Lawson. I'm properly willing to discuss the proper details when we've done that." Shadow argued.
"The Illusive Man wants him alive." said Miranda.
"The Illusive Man wants the suit! That's what he'll get!" Shadow shouted.
Miranda gave up trying to argue with the Phantom.
"The Illusive Man isn't going to like this, Azula." she said as she turned and left with Jacob.
"Stop using my real name, Lawson. Or next time I will slice that pretty little ass of your off!" said Shadow.
Shadow wasn't really the Phantom's actual name. Her real name was Tyranny Azula. Despite that she insisted on being called Shadow though, Miranda still felt that she could call her that.
"Soon, I will have my richly deserved revenge. I will make Shepard feel the pain that he has caused me. And when the wretch begs for mercy, he shall receive not but the heel of my foot, and my laugh of bitter contempt."

Hope you enjoyed that.
Good news! My College term is now finished so I have at least 2 months of free time. You can hopefully expect chapters to be uploaded faster.
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- 8
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Mass Effect: The Helldiver Saga, The Collector War