Mass Effect: Imperial Glory

I do not own Mass Effect or any properties thereof, I am not making money off of these writings.


Imperial Glory Chapter Eleven: Rescue of a wounded world, Part the First.

'This means normal thoughts.'
This means an AI construct communicating.
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INF Normandy, Camala System, 0750, April 4th, 2193.

"Entering the Camala System." Pressly announced.

"Hail the defenders." Shepard ordered.

"Already being hailed Commander, putting them through." Normandy responded.

"This is Admiral Kovalen of the 4th Auxiliary to Imperial Frigate Pack, identify yourselves."

"This is Commander Shepard of the INF Normandy, we're here to help Admiral." Shepard
responded.

"Shepard? The Fates are kind today, this is Larr." The Admiral replied.

"Hot damn, it's been a long time, Larr. Where do you need us?" Shepard asked.

"Can you clone yourselves about 80 times? Barring that, there's three bloody Geth Dreadnoughts firing on me, relaying position." Kovalen stated.

"Acknowledged, we'll be there shortly." Shepard replied, "Head for those Dreadnoughts, engage ICS."

Shepard picked through the information as he received it, the three Geth Dreadnoughts firing on Kovalen's flagship, a Batarian Dreadnought named the 'Zoya', were 2 minutes away. The Batarian Dreadnought had one of the Geth vessels nearly destroyed.

'Designate targets left to right, all ships lock in for a run on Target Two.' Shepard ordered.

'Designated, target locked. TTT is 100 seconds.' Normandy replied.

The Pack was moving at flank speed toward the center Dreadnought.

'Set disbursement range at 2500 yards, we'll drop torpedoes along with Iwo Jima, have Marathon
line up for a cannon run.' Shepard ordered.

'Pack confirms, disbursement range set. TTT is 60 seconds.' Normandy informed.

As the Pack made their run, Shepard divided his attention for a moment, looking over the rest of the battlefield. The Batarians had 2 other Dreadnoughts in the battle, facing 7 Geth Dreadnoughts. Dozens of Geth Cruisers and Frigates swarmed through space, skirmishing with Batarian and Terran vessels. The elements of the Second and Third consisted of several wings of Gunboats, Battlecruisers, Frigates, Escort and Fighter Carriers, and Marine Assault Ships.

The Battlecruisers were engaging the Geth Dreadnoughts, and inflicting considerable damage.

'Torpedoes away, all torpedoes going hot.' Normandy announced.

The 4 torpedoes slammed into the Dreadnought, detonating inside, destroying the vessel.

'Target Two destroyed. Taking heavy fire from Target One.' Normandy informed.

Shepard checked the scans of the third Dreadnought that the 'Zoya' was attacking, the Geth vessel had taken considerable damage, but was not disabled yet.

'Order the Marathon to come about and drop torpedoes on Target Three, bring us around and make a torpedo run on Target One, have the Iwo Jima do the same.' Shepard ordered.

The Marathon broke off, flipping and locking in on the third dreadnought. Normandy and Iwo Jima banked, coming about and lining up on the first dreadnought.

'TTT is 14 seconds. Dropping torpedoes in 5.' Normandy announced.

Normandy and Iwo Jima dodged flak bursts of pulse energy as they made the run, zig-zagging in random patterns. The Frigates dropped their torpedoes at the same time, Normandy's going active first. The first salvo slammed into the Dreadnought, detonating just behind the huge fore of the vessel. The second salvo penetrated just aft of amidships, detonating and disabling the Geth vessel.

'Target One neutralized. Target Three is destroyed.' Normandy announced.

'All ships reform.' Shepard ordered.

'The 'Zoya' is hailing us.' Normandy informed.

Shepard activated the comm, "How'd you like the fireworks Admiral?"

"They were exceptional Commander, and I must comment, you have wonderful timing, like always. Things looked grim for a time." Kovalen responded.

"Battle's not won yet. Reinforcements are an hour away. Can we hold?" Shepard asked.

"If the Geth do not receive anymore of their own reinforcements, then yes. The Battlecruisers from the Third Fleet are mopping up the rest of the Geth Dreadnoughts now, everything else can be taken lightly." Kovalen answered.

'Commander, Relay activity, multiple contacts. Reading Imperial IFF codes.' Normandy announced.

"Looks like the news just got better." Shepard commented.

"They are hailing, patch Shepard into the transmission." Kovalen ordered to his crew.

"This is Captain Valaren of the 7th Attack Wing, Imperial Sixth Fleet. Fleet Admiral Hackett sends her regards, the fleet has been delayed, but will be here within 5 hours. We were sent ahead as a vanguard."

"Grand welcome Captain, this is Admiral Kovalen of the 4th Batarian Auxiliary Fleet. Have your people pick a target and start shooting, there is no shortage." Kovalen stated.

"Affirmative Admiral, for the Empire!" Valaran exclaimed as the channel closed.

"It appears you have the situation up here well in hand, how is it groundside?" Shepard asked.

"Not good. The Geth have landed a full Corps worth of troops and armor. They've been hitting Ujon hard. They're combing the city, like they're searching for something, but we do not know what." Kovalen answered.

"I need to find that out, I have reason to believe it is of vital importance to the Empire." Shepard replied.

"I do not know all the details on the ground engagements, I will have the commander of the planetary garrison contact you, give me a moment. Kovalen out."

"Continue evasive and disengage ICS, we'll be heading down to the planet momentarily." Shepard ordered.

"ICS disengaged. Receiving transmission from the planet Commander." Normandy announced.

"Put it through here Normandy." Shepard replied.

The bridge speakers came to life, a imperious voice ringing from them, "This is Duchess Jalara Dakkat, provisional Commander of the defense forces, Spectre Shepard I presume?"

"Quite correct Duchess Dakkat, I understand your situation leaves much to be desired." Shepard responded,

"The Geth are relentless, but we stand ready to assist you." She replied.

"It is appreciated. We should discuss this in person, any way to arrange that?" Shepard asked.

"We control the airspace just south of the capital. Is your ship capable of landing without a berth?" Dakkat asked.

"Yes, we can make a ground landing." Shepard answered.

"Transmitting coordinates now. A squadron of fighters will be on station to escort you in once you breach atmosphere, good luck Shepard." She finished.

"Order the Marathon and Iwo Jima to support Kovalen, we'll deal with the Geth. Take us in." Shepard ordered.

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Staging base 'Primus', Camala. 0930.


The staging base was massive, the remnants of a huge industrial district wrecked from the bombing during the First Contact War. The Normandy had landed at a makeshift airstrip on the west side of the compound, there was constant traffic. All manner of Fighters, Bombers, and Gunboats landing to rearm and refuel or for repairs before being sent back into the fray.
Shepard and his team had been met by a guide and were being escorted to a hardened bunker that Duchess Dakkat had made her command center.

"Looks like a little bit of everything you can find in this corner of space. I can distinguish vehicles and equipment from Batarian Auxiliaries, Regulars, Irregulars, Krogan and Human Mercenary commands, and Imperial Marine and Army forces." Wrex commented.

Shepard nodded at him but didn't respond.

"How hard have the Geth been hitting this site?" Tali asked their guide.

"They've been making regular runs at us. So far the Gunboats from the 18th and the Crimson Wolves have made short work of their dropships, they usually finish them off before the Interceptors can respond in force." He replied.

"You've got some impressive fortifications set up, I guess your munitions storage is underground?" Jenkins commented.

The Batarian nodded, "Several underground warehouses are still intact from before the First Contact War, we were able to rig up plenty of cargo lifts as well. Fortunately we are well stocked, the storage areas for the military bases and the Ujon spaceport are on the southside of the capital. We were able to move 85% of the munitions out of the city during the evacuation."
They came up to the bunker entrance, the guards opened the blast door and ushered them down.

The guide led them through a good 150' of tunnel before they reached the central area.
A large open room, well lit. Banks of monitors and vid-screens along the walls, with a map table set up in the middle. There were several Humans, Krogan and Batarians scattered around it, a tall Batarian woman in armored garb was conferring with a pair of human males, one in Imperial Naval uniform and the other in urban-pattern armor, with the insignia of a black eagle on the pauldron.

"Commander Shepard, welcome to Primus base. I am Duchess Jalara Dakkat." She gestured to her left, "This is Captain Shin Choseki, commander of the 18th Aerospace Regiment, from the Imperial Second Fleet. To my right is Commandant Rawlins of the Black Eagles."

"Pleased to make your acquaintances, though I wish it were under better circumstances." Shepard replied.

"Don't we all Commander. Though I have to say, the Geth are far more interesting to fight than Terminus raiders." Rawlins commented.

"If by interesting you mean deadly, then you're absolutely correct, and possibly mentally unbalanced." Choseki replied.

Shepard ignored them, "How's the situation in Ujon?"

"It's not good at all. The Geth have thrown virtually every asset they have landed into the fighting. The situation has broken down almost completely, street fighting and guerilla warfare. Our last contact with forces inside the city was 2 days ago." Jalara replied.

"Any idea what the Geth are searching for?" Shepard asked.

"We have no idea, no research facilities are in Ujon, neither are any of the restricted storage facilities." Jalara answered.

"They haven't hit Hatre or Vegor?" Shepard asked.

"No, they have hit military facilities across the planet but the only city they have attacked is Ujon." Jalara replied.

'It stands to reason then, that whatever the Geth are looking for is in Ujon.' Wilco observed.

'Any suggestions?' Shepard asked his AI.

'The Geth could tell us.' Wilco replied.

'That's brilliant.' Shepard thought.

He turned to his squad, "Tali, if we capture an intact Geth could you get anything usable out of it?"

She nodded, "Yes, I believe so. We would have to do so carefully though, it would have to be incapacitated before capture so it couldn't fry it's core."

"You did that before." Shepard stated.

"The trick we used will not be easily replicated, but I'm certain I can figure something out." She replied.

Shepard turned back toward the war table, "I need a Geth patrol."

"The Geth ground forces have given up attacking this base, you'll have to get to Ujon to encounter them." Jalara said.

"Commander, we Eagles have a FOB set up just a mile out of the city. We've been trying to keep it covert, but this is more important. With enough air cover we should be able to get a convoy there." Rawlins interjected.

"Can you spare the forces?" Shepard asked Jalara.

"Of course. All our resources are at your disposal." She replied.

"The 18th is stretched thin as it is, we won't be able to help with your excursion." Choseki said distastefully.

One of the red-armored Krogan spoke up, "Ignore him Commander, WE will provide air cover for you. Varik Erisal, Commandant of the Crimson Wolves."

Shepard acknowledged him, "We need to get moving as soon as possible."

"I'll have my people ready to go within 20 minutes Commander, excuse me." Rawlins replied.

"I wish you the best Commander, we will be ready to assist you if needed." Jalara stated.

"Thank you Duchess." Shepard replied before turning, "Let's get moving people."

--------

Shepard's squad caught up with Rawlins near the motorpool, just after he had finished briefing his men.

"Commander, hope you don't mind riding in an Armadillo." He greeted.

"Not at all, what's the convoy composition?" Shepard responded.

"5 Armadillos, 4 Oliphants, and 6 Mantis's." Rawlins replied.

"Oliphants, not bad. How much enemy resistance are we expecting?" Shepard asked.

"If everything goes according to plan, nothing the Wolves can't take out before it reaches us. If things don't go according to plan, which they never do, the Mantis's have proven very effective against the Geth walkers." Rawlins answered.

"You're expecting something larger then?" Shepard queried.

Rawlins nodded, "We've had reports of very large geth vehicles, might be larger walkers, might be something completely new. Either way, the Oliphants will be able to handle it."

"Sounds good, when are we moving out?" Shepard asked.

"I told my people 15 minutes, we'll be ready in 8. How many are you bringing Commander?" Rawlins responded.

"My two squads, 10 total." Shepard answered.

"You'll ride with me in APC 1 then, there's plenty of room for my squad and yours." Rawlins replied.

"I'll get Bravo out here then, give me a moment." Shepard activated his helm comm, "Normandy, alert Alenko and have Bravo meet us at the motorpool, doubletime."

"Lieutenant Alenko confirms, they are on their way Commander." Normandy replied.

"Thank you Normandy, Shepard out."

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APC 1, Algos Highway, 35 miles south of Ujon, 1015 hours.


"We're about an hour out from the outpost, we veer off the highway in about 25 miles to get to it." Rawlins informed them.

Natalya spoke up, "So Commandant, I didn't know the Black Eagles were operating in this area of space."

"We just got done with a long-term contract in Asari space, the Authority contacted us about another long-term contract in Terminus, they even got the Crimson Wolves in on it. We were supposed to meet an official here on Camala to formalize the agreement, then the Geth decided to attack. This of course pissed us off, so here we are." Rawlins answered.

"From the looks of Primus base it looked like your units have been pulling the majority of the fighting." Alenko commented.

Rawlins nodded, "The Batarian regulars were wiped out in the first wave, some of the Auxiliaries were able to regroup, but we were still unloading so the Geth didn't figure out we were that large a threat at first. We secured Primus and then hit one of their armored columns moving into Ujon, we were able to get the Duchess out of the city before the Geth completely overran it."

"Any of your people still in there?" Alenko asked.

"Doubtful. Most everyone is accounted for, alive or dead." Rawlins replied.

The speakers in the compartment came to life, "This is Wolf Alpha, Geth Dropship and two wings of Drones spotted ahead, engaging."

"We just passed the terminal line, the Geth are very protective of the airspace in about a 30 mile radius out from the capital, they attack anything passing that line. Don't worry, the Wolves' are very, very good at what they do." Rawlins assured them.

"What are they using, I thought I spotted Perry-class Gunboats." Jenkins asked.

"Quite right, they bought several squadrons of them surplus after the fleet rearmed with the newer classes. The Fighter-Bombers and Ground Attack are the Imperial standards though, Valkyries and Warhogs." Rawlins answered.

The speakers activated again, "Rawlins, this is Alpha. Skies are all clear."

"Good work as always Alpha. Keep an eye out thought, I doubt the Geth will stop with just one attack." Rawlins responded.

"Roger and wilco. Alpha out."

Shepard was quiet during these exchanges, sizing up Rawlins' personal squad.

They were outfitted very well, heavy Kassa-Fab armor, one of their custom 'Colossus' lines. Armed with Rosenkov-Materials weaponry, from the looks of them the 'Steiner' line of Plasma weaponry. Two Quarians, and a Krogan Battlemaster, the rest were Humans.

'The Black Eagles have a sterling reputation as a top-line Mercenary command. Commandant Rawlins himself is a former Imperial Marine, he served in the First Contact War.' Wilco informed.

'Glad to have them here then, what's the backstory on the Crimson Wolves.?' Shepard inquired.

'Formed by Krogan and Human veterans of the unification of Tuchanka, they also enjoy a sterling reputation as a Mercenary command. They are top-rated for their Aerospace units, and enjoy a good working relationship with the Black Eagles, which handle the ground forces side of the equation, though they remain independent commands.' Wilco replied.

'So the air specialists are called the Wolves, and the ground specialists are called the Eagles.. intentional or unintentional irony?' Shepard pondered.

'Unintentional probably.'

'You really have to learn the point of a rhetorical question Wilco.'

The rest of the journey was spent in companionable silence.

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FOB 'Sawyer' , Ujon. 1145 Hours.


"This is our stop gentlefolk. Commander, the scout leader should be inside the hardened bunker, follow me." Rawlins stated.

Shepard hit his comm, "Squads fall out, Bravo stay with the vehicles, Alpha on me."

"Acknowledged." Alenko responded.

They filed out of the vehicles, Shepard and his team following Rawlins into a small camouflaged bunker in the middle of the small compound.

There were three people in the small control room, a dusky human woman stood at attention and saluted, "Commandant, we've been expecting you."

"Shepard, this is Platoon Leader Namir. How are your scouts holding up PL?" Rawlins asked.

"We've lost two recon patrols, Jameson and Tulio's patrols. But we have been able to get a good picture of the Geth forces in this area." Namir replied, walking over to a vid screen and bringing up a map.

"Good. We need a small, isolated Geth patrol. Where's our best bet?" Shepard asked as they walked over to the screen.

She didn't blink an eye, "Here." she replied, pointing to a small circle along the outskirts of the city, "Designated Delta-4, 4 geth patrol. One of the big ones and three normal sized. They patrol a small passage out of the industrial district. If you need to do this stealthily, the area can be reached via the underground tunnels."

"Tali?" Shepard asked.

"I can make it work." Tali replied.

"That'll do then. We'll handle it from here, but we need a guide." Shepard stated.

Namir nodded, "One of the Batarian Irregulars with us used to work in that area, he can help."

"Get him in here then." Rawlins ordered.

Namir walked over to the comm equipment, summoning the guide.

"How long until the Geth hit this FOB in force?" Shepard asked.

"An hour, give or take. Force estimates put our holding time at 7 hours." Rawlins replied.

"We'll be done in 2 hours, 3 on the outside. The Second and Sixth Fleets should be arriving soon." Shepard stated.

"Commandant." A newcomer greeted.

"Commander, Commandant, this is Nikos Lakova, the man I was telling you about." Namir informed them.

"Commander Shepard, Imperial Spectres. I understand you can get me into the industrial district quickly and quietly." Shepard said.

The Batarian nodded, "Yes sir. I worked maintenance for the entire district for 6 years, I know the area above and below ground."

Shepard pointed to the map, where the patrol was highlighted, "We need to ambush this patrol, any suggestions?"

"That area has a great many hovels and side passages, laying an ambush would be almost trivial. There's access from the underground tunnels in this building here." Nikos pointed to a small building along the alleyway.

"How do we get from here to there?" Shepard asked.

"You're in luck, there's an abandoned water reservoir 5 miles north of us, it's still connected to the underground system." Nikos showed them on the map.

"Wonderful." Shepard commented, hitting his comm, "Wrex, meet up with us outside the bunker, as for the rest of Bravo stay here and assist the defenders." He turned to Natalya, "Natalya, I want you in charge of the defense, you and Jenkins will stay with Bravo."

She nodded, "I won't let you down Commander."

"Nikos, you're coming with us. Grab any gear you need and be ready to head out in 5." Shepard ordered, turning toward Rawlins.

"My Armadillos are at your disposal Commander." Rawlins stated.

"Thank you Commandant. Squad, let's go." Shepard ordered.

Wrex fell into step as they exited the bunker, Shepard led them over to one of the APCs.

---------

"Commander." Nikos greeted, saluting, "Armadillo 44 is fueled up and ready when you are."

"Saddle up." Shepard ordered.

The squad filed into the APC, Shepard and Nikos went into the front, opening the compartment door that separated the troops from the cockpit.

The driver turned toward them ,"Commander, Vale Brinkman, my crew and I are at your service."

"Good to have you onboard, Nikos here will tell you where to go. Get us there as fast as possible, I'll be in the compartment with my squad." Shepard responded.

"Will do Commander." Brinkman replied.

Shepard left the cockpit, finding his squad situated right behind it.

After a moment they felt the Armadillo start moving, Shepard's comm activated.

"Commander, Commandant Rawlins has sent two Mantis' for an escort, there's some Geth activity around the reservoir, it appears they may know it's connected to the city." Nikos stated.

"Dammit, not good news, but it's still our best bet?" Shepard asked.

"Yes sir." Nikos replied.

"We'll have to fight our way in then." Shepard responded.

"By your order Commander." Nikos said, closing the comm.

"Alright squad, here's what's going on. We are headed to an abandoned reservoir connected to Ujon's underground system. The plan is to infiltrate the city as covertly as possible and incapacitate atleast one Geth from the nearest patrol. Tali will then rip out it's memory core and get us the information we need out of it." Shepard informed them.

"Killing and gutting, my kind of operation." Wrex commented.

"Are we expecting enemy contact at the reservoir?" Liara asked.

"It's possible, let's hope not though, if they figure out we're coming I'm sure we'll have a hell of a welcoming committee." Shepard replied.

The cockpit door opened, Nikos walked out, "Commander, we're at the reservoir, no sign of Geth. Vale's getting us near the entrance to the main tunnel."

"Good. Wrex, you're on point with me. Nikos, stick with us. Move out." Shepard ordered as the APC stopped.

They filed out of the vehicle, the tunnel entrance to their right.

Shepard hit his comm, "Thanks for the ride Brinkman, don't wait up for us."

"Roger that Commander, good luck." The driver replied, the vehicles turning around and pulling out as Shepard's squad descended.

---------------

The tunnel emptied into a large open room, two large tunnels heading in opposite directions, water flowing in each.

"This was a shed point for water coming from the mountain aqueduct, there's still some flow even though it's been closed off. The path to the right leads into the city." Nikos explained.

"Form up." Shepard ordered as he and Wrex started moving along the raised walkway.

'Scanners functioning normally, no jamming or Geth detected.' Wilco informed.

"If this place is abandoned, why is there still power?" Wrex asked.

"There are shafts in the ceiling bringing in sunlight, not powered lights." Nikos replied.

"How long is this tunnel again?" Shepard asked.

"It's a mile into the city, from there it gets complicated." Nikos responded.

"Define complicated." Wrex demanded.

"The Industrial District took quite a few bombs during the initial attack, some of the underground tunnels may have been affected." Nikos explained.

"Joy." Shepard commented dryly.

Wrex froze, "Commander, movement ahead."

Shepard signaled for the squad to hold, activating his comm, "Geth?"

"I don't think so. Varren maybe." Wrex replied.

Shepard enhanced his HUD where Wrex was motioning, "Not Varren, it's a biped. Let's check it out."

They advanced, Wrex had a pair of plasma rifles at the ready, Shepard with his heavy repeater.

"It isn't noticing us Commander. Can you get a good look at it?" Wrex asked.

"It's obscured by some debris, might be a husk. Cover me." Shepard ordered.

Shepard advanced toward the contact, watching it closely. As he moved closer he got a better look at it, definitely a husk, 4 eyes, larger head, must have been a Batarian corpse he thought.
Shepard activated his comm, "It's a husk, strange that it hasn't noticed us. Start moving, I'm taking it out."

He shuffled his repeater to his left arm, pulling his Cobra laser pistol and firing at the husk. The creature's torso exploded, it's semi-mechanical guts melting into ash. That's when all hell broke loose.

"Action rear!" Tali announced, as the sound of plasma and photon fire came from the squad.

Shepard spotted a very large group of Husks advancing on him, seemingly coming out of thin air. He picked off the first three with his sidearm, quickly holstering it and laying down energy bursts from his repeater. Wrex was beside him quickly, firing both his rifles

Shepard checked his HUD, the motion detector reading atleast 20 husks behind them, and more than double that infront. He charged his biotics, throwing a singularity into the middle of the group, then tossing a plasma grenade. The Husks were forced to stop their charge for a moment, he took the opportunity to coalesce a barrier, seeing Wrex do the same.

"How's the situation back there?" He asked over the comm.

"We're clear, moving forward Commander." Liara replied.

The singularity had cleared, Shepard and Wrex began firing into the group again, downing Husk after Husk.

"Advancing." Shepard stated, moving forward into the fray, Wrex moved with him.

They finished off the remaining 30 or so husks easily, throwing out blasts of plasma and biotic blasts.

'All enemies neutralized, area clear.' Wilco stated.

"That's the end of them. Let's keep moving, everyone alright?" Shepard asked.

"I'm good Commander." Tali answered.

"Wrex?" Shepard queried.

"Other than Husk guts staining my armor, I'm fine." Wrex replied.

"Good, how much further to the city Nikos?" Shepard asked.

"Only about 300 yards Commander." Nikos answered.

"Good, let's keep moving. Keep a close watch for more Husks." Shepard ordered, advancing.

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FOB 'Sawyer' 1215 Hours.


"I have to admit, I'm glad the Commander left you in charge Sergeant, I've never pulled a defensive op outside of training." Alenko said as they walked toward the central tower.

"I appreciate it Lieutenant, I understand this is rather unorthodox." Natalya replied.

"It's uncommon, but not unknown. One moment Sergeant, Rawlins is asking for a report. Affirmative Commandant, we'll be ready." Alenko said, closing the channel, turning back toward Natalya.

"What did he say?" She asked.

"Geth dropships inbound, they're making a helldive it looks like. Probably going to drop right on top of us." Alenko replied.

"The armor's out engaging the walkers, and the facility doesn't have any AA guns. Upto us then.
Jenkins, Shiala, grab a Flak gun and reinforce the north side, Williams and Nihlus, do the same and head to the east gate. Alenko and I will take up an overwatch position in the center tower. Move out." Natalya ordered.

"Got it Sergeant, we'll hold the line." Jenkins responded.

"Aye aye Ma'am." Williams replied, slinging a rocket launcher over her shoulder.

Alenko picked up another of the Flak guns, following Natalya toward the center of the base.

"How do you think the Commander is doing?" Alenko asked.

"He's doing fine of course. Concentrate on the here and now Lieutenant." Natalya replied.

"Sorry Sergeant. After you." Alenko said, gesturing toward the access ladder.

Natalya climbed the 24 feet to the top, used to this sort of thing from her time in the Auxilia.

The tower was already manned by a Black Eagle, he snapped off a salute, "Scout Dobbins."

"Sergeant Barriskol. Any sign of the enemy yet Scout?" Natalya responded.

"Negative Major, the Wolves are reporting one of the dropships downed, they've lost the other one. Bad news is we're being jammed, visual scans are all we've got." The Scout replied.

Natalya unslung her VLRM, checking it over.

Dobbins checked over the comm equipment, checking with the other sentries.
"Sergeant, we've got company. Northside is reporting an engagement with several Geth walkers, they must have broken off from the line battle, we still don't know where the dropship is." He informed.

Natalya readied her rifle, sighting through the VI enhanced scope. "I see them, I count half a company. No infantry." She zeroed in on a walker in the second line, locking in and firing on a leg joint, blowing the leg clear off. Rockets and plasma bursts from the defenders streaked across the field, hitting the Geth forces.

"6 down, Area clear. Jenkins confirm." Natalya ordered.

"We're clear Sergeant, two of the Eagles are down, we've sent them back with a medic. Any word on the dropship?" Jenkins replied.

"Not yet, stay alert." Natalya responded, closing the channel.

"Sergeant, another company, walkers and infantry sighted moving on east gate." Dobbins stated.

Natalya hit her comm, "Chief, you're about to have some guests."

"We see em' Sergeant, engaging." Williams replied.

"More contacts, another company hitting north again." Dobbins informed.

"Dammit, this must be their main push, maintain airwatch." Natalya ordered.

"Dropship inbound!" Alenko announced.

Natalya watched as the Geth ship made a strafing run, hitting the east gate with heavy pulse fire, it slowed moving over the compound, dropping several walkers and almost a platoon of infantry.

"Not good. Alenko, concentrate on the walkers, Dobbins, get us some air support!" Natalya ordered, sighting in and sniping at the troops.

"Wolves, priority order, need support at FOB, danger clo.. Sorry Sergeant, can't get through the jamming." Dobbins reported.

"No air support, and the armor's already got a full plate, this is not good." Alenko stated.

Natalya was neutralizing Geth after Geth, the tower was taking heavy fire. She looked up,

"Dammit, the dropship's coming around for another pass."

"Sergeant, maybe we should.." Alenko was cut off as the dropship unleashed heavy pulse fire on the tower, they were thrown like ragdolls as the structure exploded.

Natalya and Alenko landed in the middle of the Geth force, she shrugged off the landing and sprung into action, tossing an infernium grenade under the nearest walker. Alenko rose to a kneeling position, firing his Flak rifle at another.

The remaining walker swiveled to face them, firing its pulse cannon. The blast hit the Lieutenant full on, overwhelming his barrier and throwing him to the ground.

Natalya assessed the situation, Alenko was down, Dobbins was nowhere to be seen. Even with losses the Geth still had an operational walker and atleast 20 infantry. She pulled another grenade, throwing it into the remaining troops. As the Geth scrambled she pulled the release on her armor, dropping the VLRM unit, dodging M/A fire she grabbed Alenko, slinging him over her shoulder and running for the safety of a nearby structure.

Natalya was able to duck behind the building as the walker got off another pulse shot, hitting the ground a few feet away. She set Alenko down, checking over him quickly.

'Suit isn't breached, he's just been knocked out.' She thought. She grabbed his left arm, activating the omni-tool, it scanned her quickly, receiving the Marine transponder and granting access. She activated the right protocol, Alenko's armor releasing stimulants into his bloodstream. His vitals shot up, and he started moving, "What happened?"

"You took a shot from the walker head on, you're damn lucky you had a barrier up, I'm surprised you survived." Natalya replied.

"You dragged me out of that? Thanks. Where to?" Alenko asked, getting up.

"The outpost is being overrun, we need to link up with anyone else that's still alive, we're closest to northside." Natalya stated, taking his Flak rifle.

Alenko took point, they made their way toward the north side of the outpost, they didn't encounter any Geth but the sound of weapons fire filled the compound. As the north perimeter came into view they saw the main bunker on fire. As they ran over Jenkins exited the structure, followed by Shiala.

"Sergeant, northside has been wiped out, but we stopped the Geth in their tracks." He said by way of greeting.

"The dropship decided Alenko and I were priority targets, but we're alive. How are you two?" Natalya asked.

"We're in good condition. We managed to get most of the Eagles to retreat to the main bunker before the Geth overran us, any word on reinforcements or evac?" Jenkins said.

"They started jamming everything right before my world exploded. Let's move, I want to check the east gate before heading to the command center." Natalya ordered.

"By your lead then." Jenkins acknowledged.

They made their way along the ruined perimeter, the fighting was still going on at the east gate, several Geth walkers and about two dozen infantry. Only one bunker was still active and returning fire.

"Open fire." Natalya ordered as she took aim with the Flak rifle.

Two walkers went down quickly, the third and fourth turning, and starting to retreat.

The reason soon became apparent, as a shriek was heard over the base. A Valkyrie Fighter-Bomber swooped out of the sky, raining hundreds of 'Fusilade' missiles down on the Geth, devastating them.

As the smoke cleared, Williams and Nihlus exited the remaining bunker.

"Haha, looks like reinforcements arrived just in time." Williams exclaimed.

"Good to see you're both still in one piece, the bunker's landline still operable?" Natalya replied.

"Negative Ma'am, the equipment's been destroyed." Williams responded.

"Damn, I'll try my comm, maybe the jamming's been lifted by now." Natalya said, activating her helm-comm, "This is Gunnery Sergeant Barriskol of the Imperial Marines to any friendly forces, please acknowledge."

"Barriskol? This is Commandant Rawlins, I didn't think anyone was still alive in there." He replied.

"Takes alot more than half a battalion of Geth to put us down. Some of your people are still holed up in the command center, they need medevac." Natalya responded.

"Understood, Landers from the Sixth Fleet are on their way, our armor is headed back to Primus, we're leaving the rest of this fight upto the flyers. Rawlins out."

"Evac is on the way, let's head to the command center." Natalya ordered.

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Industrial District Underground, Ujon. 1300 Hours.


Alpha squad had made it into Ujon after carving through hordes of Husks.

"Nikos, where's the building access?" Shepard asked.

"Ladder A4.. up ahead Commander, on the right." Nikos replied.

"Alright, I'll go first." Shepard stated, as he began to climb.

After 18 feet of ladder, he reached the hatch, it opened easily, and he popped into the building.
It appeared to be a small warehouse, empty. The lights were still running.

Nikos came up next, followed by Liara and Tali, then Wrex. "Alright, does this building have a second floor?" Shepard asked.

Nikos nodded, "Yes Commander, this is the old Alcovar storage building, offices are on the second floor, with a good view of the alleyway. Follow me."

Nikos led them over to a door at the corner of the warehouse that opened to a stairwell. They walked upto the second floor, it was also empty, but there was a whole bank of windows along one side. Shepard and team walked over to them.

"This is the alleyway the Geth patrol, it's isolated. You can see several of the nooks and hovels I mentioned along the southern side of it." Nikos stated.

"Alright Tali, work your magic." Shepard ordered.

Tali nodded, unhooking a small case from her utility belt.

As she rifled through it Shepard and Wrex walked over to the other end of the window, looking along the alley.

"You think the squad back at the outpost is alright?" Wrex asked.

"Reinforcements should be landing by now, they'll be fine." Shepard answered.

"True. Guess you wouldn't have left one of your mates if you thought otherwise." Wrex commented.

"Natalya can handle anything that comes their way, that's why I'm not worried." Shepard replied.

Tali walked up to them, "Commander, I'm finished, the trap is ready, just need to set it."

"Good, will it disable the whole patrol or will we need to mop up?" Shepard asked.

"It should take care of any regular Geth, not sure if it will work on the larger one." She replied.

"Alright, we just wait for the patrol to pass and then set it." Shepard stated.

"Or we set it just inside this building and then lure them in." Tali suggested.

"That works, do it." Shepard replied.

Tali nodded, Wrex followed her down to set the trap.

Shepard observed the alleyway, catching a glimpse of movement a few moments later.

"Possible contact, the trap ready?" He asked over the comm.

"Affirmative, it's set. We're coming back up." Tali replied.

'This is going to be tricky' He thought.

Shepard watched the Geth patrol move closer, once they were in full view of the building he charged his biotics, blowing out a section of the window. The Geth moved forward, entering the building to check out the disturbance. The sounds of an explosion came from the ground floor, the squad waited for a moment before moving down.

Shepard hopped over the railing, hitting the ground first, Tali and Wrex following the same way.

They burst through the door, weapons at the ready. The Geth were sprawled across the floor, all of them immobile.

"Good job Tali, get to work. Wrex, Liara, get back upstairs and keep a lookout for any more
Geth." Shepard ordered.

He watched as Tali bent down near the large one, activating her omni-tool and adjusting something. A thick panel on it's back popped open, Tali reached in and removed a large device.

"That's it?" Shepard asked.

"Yes. I'm surprised this worked, you should have seen what I had to do this first time." Tali replied.

Shepard looked over it, "Can you get anything from it here?"

"I should be able to, it would be easier if I had an omni-controller like you though." She answered.

"If we get back to Arcturus and have time I'll have one requisitioned for you." Shepard said.

Tali looked up, "You promise?"

Shepard smirked, "Like I'd deny you anything. Now what are the Geth looking for?"

Tali turned her attention back to the core, "Give me a moment, if I'm not very careful the core will wipe itself. Mission directives.. patrol industrial sector.. briefing material.. the Geth are looking for a way into the Old City. Trying to find out why."

"The Old City? It was sealed over." Nikos said.

"What is the Old City?" Shepard asked.

"The ruins of Ujon that were left from the bombing during the First Contact War. Nothing was considered salvageable so it was simply buried and built over." Nikos explained.

"Got it! They're searching for a way into the Camala Museum. Apparently they believe there is a Prothean Beacon still active in the underground portion of the building." Tali informed them.

"Another beacon? Makes sense. Have they found it yet?" Shepard responded.

"No, they did however find a way into the Old City, I've downloaded the location." Tali replied.

"Alright. I'll call for evac." Shepard stated.

'Wilco, get me a frequency.' He ordered.

'Scanning, X-band is open and penetrating the Geth interference.' Wilco replied.

Shepard activated his comm, "This is Commander Shepard to any Imperial Forces, please respond."

"This is ING 'Levar' we copy Commander."

"I need transport and escort ASAP, red priority. Sending code." Shepard replied.

"Code and location received, Squadron-117 is on the way, ETA 12 minutes. Levar remaining on station to relay orders sir." The Gunboat responded.

"Thank you Levar, Shepard out." He closed the channel, "And now the fun begins."

Shepard switched to the squad frequency, "Listen up people, evac is 12 minutes out, we are going to hold this position until they arrive. Expect Geth forces any moment now."

"We're ready Commander." Wrex replied.

"Geth sighted Commander, I see a dozen infantry moving toward us." Liara stated.

"Open fire, Tali with me." Shepard ordered, moving toward the doorway.

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End of Part One.