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 Thirteen: Redemption.

'These are normal thoughts.'
This is an AI communicating.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INF Normandy, Elysium System, 1420 Hours, April 8th, 2193.

Shepard was on deck, sitting in the command chair. Tali was in her usual perch just to his left.

Nihlus was standing to his right. The Turian Commando had taken it upon himself to act as Shepard's personal guard for several days now.

Shepard appreciated the effort, Nihlus was simply acting as his Retainer, to which he was bound by an oath of his own choosing.

"We have reached the Elysium System, one jump to Arcturus Prime." Navigator Pressly informed.

"Good. Proceed." Shepard ordered.

"Commander, receiving a priority message from Arcturus." Normandy announced.

"Unexpected." Tali commented.

"I'll take it in the comm room." Shepard replied.

Shepard walked into the comm room, followed by Tali and Nihlus. The vidscreen was already active, he saw Empress Sativia along with Inquisitor Dalton and High Admiral Hackett.

"Empress, Inquisitor, Admiral." Shepard started.

"Cousin Shepard, ah and one of your mates and retainers. I have a new directive for you." Sativia stated.

"Of course." Shepard replied.

Hackett spoke, "The Geth have decided they haven't lost enough fleets yet. They have launched a new offensive into the Quarian systems. The Turian Home Fleet has been scrambled in it's entirety and will be reinforcing the Quarian positions. You are to head to Quaria and assist in the defense."

"The Turian Home Fleet?" Shepard asked, curious.

"Their penance." The Empress said simply.

"I understand. By your order Empress." Shepard replied.

"Be well Cousin." Empress Sativia stated as the channel closed.

"Normandy, have Pressly change course to Quaria." Shepard ordered.

"Orders relayed Commander. ETA is 0620 tomorrow." Normandy informed.

"Thank you Normandy." Shepard replied, leaning back against the console.

"Cousin?" Tali asked.

Shepard smiled, "My family is distantly related to the Imperial Line. Empress Sativia declared that I be known as her cousin."

"I see." Tali said.

"Our penance. I expected it would be much, much worse." Nihlus commented.

"I know my Father must be very disappointed at that. He was looking forward to cleansing Turian worlds for colonization." Tali stated, speaking freely.

"I didn't know you kept in contact with him." Shepard said.

"Of course. Don't you keep in contact with your family?" She asked.

"Not while on campaign. I guess that's a Shepard thing." He replied.

"I see. But yes he will be disappointed, apparently the bidding was quite fierce." Tali said.

"Bidding?" Nihlus asked, confused.

"The loyal races were scrambling over themselves for the honor of punishing the betrayal. Even the Salarians were vying for that privilege." Tali explained.

"I figured it would be decimation. This makes much more sense." Shepard stated.

"How so?" Nihlus asked.

"You still have a lot to learn about how the Terran mind works. Having the Turian Home Fleet leave their sector and defend the Quarian systems means this isn't about punishment anymore, it's about redemption." Shepard said.

"I think I understand." Nihlus replied.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ship's Armory, INF Normandy.

Shepard, Tali and Natalya were in the Armory, checking over their personal equipment.

'Servos check. On-board sensors check. Interface systems check.' Wilco informed him.

'Amazing how well this armor holds together after the hell we've put it through.' Shepard thought.

'It was specifically designed for Black Watch Marines and other elite units. I believe they actually used some of your unit's mission notes when finalizing the design.' The AI stated.

"Commander, Major, Sergeant." Jenkins greeted, entering the Armory.

"Jenkins. Just checking over my personal armor and weapons." Shepard replied.

"I understand Sir. I know you like to do your own work on them." Jenkins said.

"Sergeant, were you able to repair my VLRM?" Natalya asked.

Jenkins nodded, "Yes. I had to replace the P/U and Coil. I'll show you." He offered.

"Please do." Natalya replied, walking over to him.

Shepard finished checking over his armor, walking over to where Tali was at a weapons table, "I guess you won't be getting an Omni-controller yet." He said, checking over his repeater.

"I'm sure we'll get time later. Besides, this way I get the chance to introduce you to my father. I think you two will get along well." She replied.

"I've never met the Grand Admiral. Tell me about him." Shepard asked.

"He's like you in a way. Dedicated to duty and to the Empire. When I was younger he didn't have much time for me, always busy with business of State." She replied.

"It sounds like you're close now though." Shepard said.

"Yes, when I grew older I understood what he had to do much better. We've been close ever since I joined the Auxilia. He's still as busy though, some things never change." She stated.

"From what I've seen of him he sounds like a good man." Shepard replied, breaking down a sidearm.

"He is. What's your family like?" Tali asked.

"My Father is about the same, dedicated to duty. He's the Baron of the Florida Atlantic Coast, and the Head of House. He made a point to be around though, he taught me to hunt and swim and cook. Mother though, she was always a force in our lives. She pushed all us kids to our full potential, trained us to be soldiers herself. She got me a waiver to enter the Marine Reserve early." Shepard answered.

"That must have been wonderful. My Mother was killed in a shuttle accident when I was very young." Tali said.

"I'm sorry." Shepard replied.

Tali shook her head, "Don't be, truthfully I was too young to be hurt by it. I missed her when I was old enough to understand of course but it didn't harm me at the time."

Shepard was done checking over his weapons, he decided to steer the conversation back onto something pleasant, "You know Tali, there's one thing about the Geth I've never understood."

She looked at him strangely, "What?"

"Well." He began, "They're built to be soldiers, right?"

"More or less, but that was not their original purpose." She answered.

"Here's the thing: They have flashlight heads and run around making mechanical *urk urk* noises. Did you Quarians design them that comically.. you know, just in case?" He asked deadpan.

Tali had to laugh at that, "No, I think they did that on their own."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INF Normandy, Quaria System, 0630 April 9th, 2193.

"We're being hailed by the QNSD 'Quaria'" Normandy announced.

"Put them through." Shepard ordered.

"Commander Shepard, welcome to Quaria." The voice was male, a deep baritone and dripping in that particular accent that Tali shared..

"Thank you Grand Admiral, it's a pleasure to join in the defense. Have the Turians arrived yet?" He asked.

"They are still 4 days out. Word of your status was relayed to us, the 'Quaria' can resupply you, sending docking procedures." Grand Admiral Yallar'Rayya Vas Siiya replied.

"Affirmative Grand Admiral, moving to dock." Shepard said.

"I will meet you on the deck, Quaria out." The channel closed.

"Normandy, relay the orders." Shepard ordered.

"Already done Commander." Normandy replied.

He smiled, "Thank you." Manipulating a control on the command console, the Galaxy Map changed from a map of the Relay System to a real-time simulation of the surrounding space.

He zoomed in on the 'Quaria' The Quarian Navy's Flagship and only SuperDreadnought was an incredible sight. Slightly larger than an INSD. The hull was smooth, long and cylindrical. There were 8 large pylons set around the axis on the rear of the hull, each capped with long range beam turrets. An engine pod was mounted on the main hull behind each pylon, with a larger one in the center. The bow flared larger than the hull, a bulbous shape containing the reaction chamber for the main armament, an experimental launcher firing plasma projectiles at much longer range than anything currently fielded.

"First time I've seen the 'Quaria'. That is impressive." He remarked.

"Quarian and Human engineering and technology in perfect balance, coming together to form a weapon that is danger incarnate. And some wonder why we serve." Tali stated.

"I wonder how our SuperDreads would fare against a Reaper." Shepard pondered.

"I'm sure we'll find out sooner or later." Tali responded.

"Beginning final docking procedures." Joker's voice filled the bridge.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airlock 4, QNSD 'Quaria' 0645 Hours.

Shepard had decided to keep it simple, just bringing Tali and Nihlus with him.
He and Tali had elected to switch to their red and black dress uniforms, while Nihlus stayed in his regular jet black armor.

The bulkhead doors opened, allowing them to exit into a large corridor. Eight Quarian Marines were lined up in an honor guard. The Quarian Marines and Auxilia designed their uniforms based on the Imperial Marines' own. Dress were black, with red edges and collar, and Combat Uniforms were a gray and black camouflage pattern.

The Quarian Naval uniform though was mostly gray, with patches of orange in various areas. Several Quarians thus garbed were just past the Marines, gathered around a tall, ornately uniformed man, obviously the Grand Admiral.

"Permission to come aboard Grand Admiral?" Shepard asked before stepping past the doorway.

"Permission granted Commander. Welcome aboard. I see you've brought Tali'Zorah, hello daughter." He said warmly.

"Father, it's good to see you." She replied the same way as they walked forward.

"Sir." Shepard said standing before the Grand Admiral, offering his hand.

He shook it, "Spectre. A briefing has been prepared, I assumed you would want to look over the defense plans immediately."

Shepard nodded, "Yes I would. Please lead on."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Officer's Briefing Room, QNSD 'Quaria'

As the entered the briefing room Shepard noticed another Quarian already there, a woman he recognized from years before, the battle of Momboza.

"High Admiral Vas Jacobson, it's good to see you again." He greeted.

The Commandant of the Quarian Auxilia looked up, "Commander! It's been a long time."

The Grand Admiral and Tali took a seat, Shepard looked around the room. Nearly every inch of wall was covered with vidscreens, showing ship positions, logistical areas, reinforcement availability and enemy data. There were several holo-projectors set up aswell. He saw twenty or so data pads and plasticate maps scattered on the conference table.

"The Geth haven't started another wave of incursions yet?" He asked, looking at one of the readouts.

"No, we repelled their first push yesterday, since then they have stayed in Perseus. We have skirmishers and recon groups keeping a watch and harassing their resupply." Vas Jacobson answered.

"It almost looks like they're waiting. Reinforcements maybe?" Shepard observed.

"It's possible. We don't have any LRRGs operating in Geth space." Yallar'Rayya said.

"The Turian Fleet will be here by the 13th. The Imperial Eighth Fleet will be here a day after them. Between the Auxiliary Fleets and the Quarian Home Fleet, we have more then enough forces to cover our current territory however." Vas Jacobson stated.

Shepard took a seat, "Where are they projected to hit?"

The High Admiral activated one of the holo-projectors on the table, bringing up a view of the Quarian Systems, "Pick a system. They attacked 16 of the systems in the Armstrong Cluster in their first offensive, we have no idea where they will attack next."

He looked over the fleet positions, "You've got the defenders spread more or less evenly. No staggered patrols?"

"All available skirmishers are being used for deep strikes against the Geth fleets. We feel the current defensive arrangement is satisfactory." The Grand Admiral stated.

"It will certainly work. Once my pack gets resupplied and repaired we can step in for LRRG's and assist the harassers." Shepard said.

"Are these enemy numbers accurate?" Tali asked incredulously.

"They are updated with every recon patrol." Vas Jacobson replied.

"John, look at this." Tali said.

He looked over the data pad the numbers were unreal, "How many damn fleets do the Geth have." He wondered out loud.

'4 full fleets in position and more reinforcements arriving regularly. Theoretically they might have strip mined all the resources in the Veil, not just Eezo, and thrown it all into shipbuilding.' Wilco suggested.

'That makes sense. How long have they been preparing for this though, years? Longer?' Shepard thought.

'Unknown. It does lend us the advantage however that they cannot replenish losses. We however can, and we have a large technological edge.' Wilco replied.

"One and a half fleets worth of Imperial ships spread across two sectors, versus atleast 4 fleets of Geth ships, probably attacking in a combined group. Doesn't seem fair for them does it." Shepard remarked.

"They hurt the Batarians, but they will find we are not so easy a target. We will not allow them to harm our people again." Yallar'Rayya stated.

"Neither will we Grand Admiral. Neither will we." Shepard stated.

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

"Commander, walk with me." The Grand Admiral requested.

"Sure. Tali, Nihlus, head on back to the Normandy." Shepard ordered.

Shepard walked beside the Grand Admiral, the corridor was large, spacious even for a SuperDreadnought. After a time they came upto an open area, plants and vegetation filling it.

'Some form of Hydroponics bay.' Shepard thought to himself.

The Grand Admiral walked over to one, a vine with large, orange flowers.

"One of our few indulgences." He began, "This is a celoosa vine, from Quaria. We cultivate them on the Rayya estates. It never fails to remind me of home."

He turned back to Shepard, "Commander, I wanted to thank you."

'That was unexpected.' Shepard thought, then replied, "For what?"

The Grand Admiral looked him right in the eye, "Tali'Zorah is the most important thing in my life, though I'm sure she doubts that at times. I've never been able to get as close with her as I wanted, my duties to the Empire and the Quarian people always came first. I regret that at times. But I've always wanted her to be happy, and she is. She loves you strongly Shepard, and a blind man could tell that you feel the same. Has she told you why she didn't take her proper name?"

"Yes, she did." Shepard responded.

"I thought as much. That's why I'm thanking you Shepard, Tali'Zorah is happy now that she's found where she belongs. I know you'll take care of her and keep her safe." He finished.

"I promise Grand Admiral. I have a request." Shepard said.

"Of course." He replied.

"I promised my mates that I would give them my name once we got to Arcturus. Obviously that has been postponed, but I still want to do it. It would be the greatest of honors if you would preside over the ceremony." Shepard explained.

Yallar'Rayya smiled broadly, "I think that can be arranged Shepard. I can't promise it will go perfectly, though. I've never done a Terran ceremony before."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ship's Temple, QNSD 'Quaria' 2030 Hours.

The Ship's Temple was decorated similarly to any other in the Imperial Forces. A small raised dais along the far wall, a lectern set up upon it. A large brazier was lit against the back wall, tables of electronic scrolls several feet away, on either side.

The walls were painted and carved with scenes of warfare, either historic battles or simply vicious fights the ship had taken part in. There was no mistaking this was a place of worship and ceremony for warriors.

The room was filled to the brim. The Quarians saw no need for huge temples, but they did acknowledge the boost to morale when there was such a place and person on a ship.

Both of Shepard's squads and almost the whole crew from the Normandy were there, along with the Captains and X/O's from the Marathon and Iwo Jima.

The Grand Admiral was there of course, standing on the dais. High Admiral Vas Jacobson was also there, sitting in the front row beside Jenkins and Shiala.

John observed all this as he walked in. The room going silent. His arms around Tali on his left and Natalya on his right.

They had struggled to find Natalya a dress uniform for this, finally borrowing one from one of the Normandy's female Marine Security. She looked stunning in it however, as did Tali in hers.

'This is not how I pictured marrying, but I'm not about to complain. Not when I'm marrying the two most wonderful females in the 'verse.' He thought.

'I do not mean to intrude Commander, but I believe it would be appropriate if I said 'congratulations'.' Wilco stated.

'Thank you Wilco. For a matrix-born AI, you've turned out to be a good being, sorry for calling you a pain in the ass all those times.' Shepard thought.

'Oh I deserved it Commander, and probably will in the future. Thank you though.' Wilco replied.

John smiled wider, and they walked upto the dais, stopping in front of the lectern.

Yallar'Rayya leaned over to them, "You look beautiful Tali'Zorah. Are you three ready to begin?"

John glanced at both his mates quickly, "Yes we are." He stated.

Quietly Yallar'Rayya said, "Thankfully my part of this is relatively simple."

"Ahem." He started, "We are gathered here today, to honor the commitment these three have made to each other, the love they feel, the connection they share."

He looked at John, "Commander Johnathan Alexander Shepard, Imperial Spectre, Imperial Marine, Bastion, Hero of Akuze, Hero of Feros, Hero of Camala, Hero of Eden Prime, Destroyer of Momboza, Destroyer of the Lystheni, Bearer of the Star of Terra, Noble, Terran, do you take an oath to protect and love these two females you are giving your name to?"

"I do." John stated without hesitation.

He looked at Tali, "Major Tali'Zorah Nar Rayya, Princess of Quaria, Imperial Marine, Quarian Commando, Hero of Feros, Hero of Camala, Destroyer of the Lystheni, Bearer of the Star of Terra, Noble. Do you accept this man's oath, to honor and accept his name, and love him as your husband, and Natalya as your and his mate?"

"I do." Tali replied firmly.

Finally he turned to Natalya, "Gunnery Sergeant Natalya Barriskol, Imperial Marine, Soldier of the Batarian Auxilia, Hero of Lusava, Hero of Feros, Hero of Camala, Bearer of the Order of Batara. Do you accept this man's oath, to honor and accept his name, and love him as your husband, and Tali'Zorah as your and his mate?"

"I do." Natalya said.

Yallar'Rayya looked down at his electronic scroll for a moment, "If anyone has an objection to this union and does not have a death wish, I suggest you do not express it."

A small chuckle went through the room at that traditional bit of levity.

Yallar'Rayya leaned over the lectern again, "That concludes my part of this ceremony. You three have to make your Blood Oaths now."

"Thank you Grand Admiral." John said, then lead Tali and Natalya up onto the dais. They each grabbed a small paper scroll off the lectern, then moved to stand in front of the flaming brazier.

John had taught his mates the proper recitation while they had been getting ready, they each unrolled their parchment and said in unison, "Without hesitation or coercion I swear myself to the tenets of House Shepard, acknowledging and accepting the duties and obligations placed on me by taking the name of this Noble House. I sign this compact with my blood, and pray for it to mingle and be accepted as true."

They both pulled their honor blades from their sheaths, holding the parchment in their left hand and slicing into their palm, allowing the blood to soak into the scroll before their nanites quickly sealed the wound. Carefully refolding the parchment it suddenly burst into flames, turning into ash in their palms.

John had explained that to them beforehand however, so they simply held their palm up and blew the ash into the brazier. The fire flared, turning from a yellow to a orange in a second.

John unrolled his own scroll, holding the parchment the same way and pulling his own honor blade, "I, Johnathan Alexander Shepard, accept the vows of Tali'Zorah and Natalya. In the name of House Shepard. I offer my own, true blood so theirs can mingle and be accepted."

He cut his own palm then, allowing a generous amount of his blood to soak into the parchment. As he finished rolling it, it ignited, turning to ash as the others had. He leaned down and blew it into the brazier, the flame flaring several feet into the air, turning a bright red.

John pulled Tali and Natalya to him, kissing them deeply in turn as a cheer was heard from the assembled Nobles.

He was grinning from ear to ear as they walked back in front of the lectern, standing off the dais he announced, "I'd like to present Tali'Zorah Vas Shepard, and Natalya Shepard, my mates and wives."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Commander's Quarters, INF Normandy.

"Are you sure they won't mind that we slipped out?" Natalya asked as they entered their quarters.

As soon as the doors shut he slammed her against the wall, kissing her fiercely.

Tali smirked at the display, and began to peel her dress uniform off.

After several moments John pulled away, letting Natalya catch her breath, "A Terran ceremony? Pfft, we start thinking something's wrong if you don't immediately run out to rut your mates senseless." He explained.

"I think I can understand that, husband." Natalya replied between breaths, her eyes smoldering.

John growled, his base instincts flaring at that. He ripped her collar open, pressing his lips to her sensitive neck, marking her as she moaned.

He felt delicate hands working at the clasp of his uniform jacket and belt, feeling Tali's naked form press up against him. He moved his arms back, letting her slip his jacket off.

Tali slid his shirt off next, pressing herself flush against him and sliding her own lips toward his. He kissed her back, turning to put his arms around her, letting Natalya shed her own garments.

He slid his hands down Tali's lithe, flawless frame, cupping her butt and pulling her up as she wrapped her legs around his waist, clinging to him.

John walked over to the bed carrying her, laying her upon it. Natalya came up behind him, her body bared finally. He nodded toward the bed, and she settled upon it, laying back next to Tali.

"And now the fun begins. Natalya, get on top of Tali, put your head down at this end." He ordered.

Natalya did as he asked, straddling Tali's face and lowering hers to Tali's slit.

John leaned forward, pulling Tali's legs up and positioning himself at her entrance, feeling Natalya's nimble tongue slowly lick at his hardness, he let out a low growl.

Below Tali was licking at Natalya's wet slit, running her tongues along the edge and sliding two of her fingers inside the Batarian girl.

John thrust, sliding into Tali's tight, hot tunnel as she opened to welcome him inside. He began a slow rhythm, pulling all but the head out before thrusting back in, Natalya licking over his shaft and Tali's netherlips.

Tali was moaning in pleasure, the sensations almost overwhelming, her body ready to explode already.

After a time she couldn't take it anymore, screaming out her orgasm as her slit convulsed and sucked at John's shaft. It was too much, with a groan he hilted himself, filling her with his seed.

"So good." He said in a low voice. He looked down at Natalya, winking at her. Sliding out of Tali he slid his shaft into her waiting mouth, letting her taste his seed and Tali's own cum.

John pumped her mouth for a few moments, as she took him into her throat and sucked him with passion. Tali had recovered from her orgasm, returning her attention to Natalya's slit, she gathered the juices with her fingers and ran them up, gently pressing them into the other female's yielding anus.

The Quarian girl's fingers gently see-sawing out of her sensitive ass, her talented tongues working into her slit, the taste and feel of her love's shaft sliding in and out of her mouth proved too much, her own orgasm hitting her quickly. She let out a long moan around John's shaft, the sensations drawing a second wave of his seed out of him, with a groan he released into her throat, sending his cum down her throat. Tali was struggling to lap up the copious juices from Natalya's slit, drinking them as best she could.

John pulled away, dropping down onto the bed beside the disentangling girls, "I need a few minutes to recover after that." He said.

Natalya cocked her head, "If you can't keep up with two females maybe you shouldn't have married them." She said playfully.

John's eyes narrowed, "That's how you want to play?" He said, pulling her down and flipping her onto her stomach. He nodded to Tali, who slid herself down in front of Natalya, letting her lap at her slit.

John reached down, rubbing over Natalya's pretty ass before spreading the cheeks, lining up his shaft and pressing into her warm, tight rear passage, bringing a moan from the Batarian girl.

He grinned, thrusting faster and faster into her as she moaned and cried out in pleasure. Tali knelt down, sharing a kiss with the other girl as Natalya came hard, her anus flexing and constricting around John's hardness.

He knelt down, cupping her breasts, "Not going to get away that easily pet." He whispered to her.

He locked eyes with Tali. She grinned, knowing what he wanted. She crawled under the other female, licking at her slit again, and gently fondling John's testicles. The sensations were hitting her hard, Natalya cried out, cumming for a second time. John didn't even slow, thrusting harder and faster into her.

Natalya was delirious with pleasure, John's hard thick shaft penetrating her ass, and Tali's talented mouth and tongues moving about her slit had her in a constant state of orgasm, drawing it out of her effortlessly.

"I'm close darling." John growled to her, hilting her convulsing rectum and cumming into her with a cry.

It was too much, Natalya was hit by a final, huge orgasm. She screamed out in ecstacy before blacking out from the sensory overload.

John pulled out after a time, flopping onto the bed again. Tali slid out from under her, lolling Natalya's head gently, "I think you broke her."

He grinned, laying back against the soft blanket, "She asked for it."

Tali slid herself against him snuggly, "So she did."

They drifted off to dreams together.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bridge, INF Normandy. April 10th, 2193. 0730 Hours.

"Commander on deck!" Normandy announced as John walked in, flanked by Tali and Natalya.

"Commander, we have begun receiving munitions from the 'Quaria', and the Marathon has been transferred to an orbital drydock for repairs. The estimated time is 0800 tomorrow. Our munitions should be replenished in 4 hours or so." Pressly greeted him.

"Thank you Normandy, thank you Pressly." John replied, sitting in the command chair.

"Commander, Major, Sergeant, I didn't think it was prudent last night, but I wish to congratulate you." Normandy stated.

"Thank you Normandy, I appreciate it." John replied.

"Thank you Normandy." Natalya said.

"Yes, thank you." Tali said, leaning down to John, "I don't think I'm ever going to get used to polite and thoughtful AI's."

John chuckled, "You will."

"Commander, receiving updated troop positions and enemy movements. Transferring them to your Neural Net." Normandy announced.

"Thank you again Normandy." John replied, already receiving the data.

'It appears the Geth are massing for an attack on Maji.' Wilco observed.

'An obvious feint. Maji is a very minor Quarian colony. So where are they really going to attack?' John pondered.

"Incoming transmission from Grand Admiral Yallar'Rayya." Normandy announced.

"I'll take it here Normandy." John replied.

The Grand Admiral's voice came over the speakers, "Commander Shepard, we need to transfer you and the Iwo Jima to an orbital facility, I'm taking the 'Quaria' out to defend Maji."

John was surprised, "Grand Admiral I just received the updated data, I would think that their buildup is a bluff or a feint, Maji is a very minor holding."

"Maji was a very minor holding, up until two months ago, when our new antimatter production facilities came online. Now it's of strategic importance to the Quarian state. The information isn't widely known, but it's possible the Geth found the signature during one of their scouting operations." The Grand Admiral explained.

"I see. Good hunting, we'll hold the fort while you're gone." John replied.

"Thank you Commander. Yallar'Rayya out." He finished as the channel closed.

"I want us undocked in one minute. Get us a berth in one of the orbital yards." John ordered.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Officer's Mess, INF Normandy, 1210 Hours.

"So he pulls his knife, sinks it into the table and says, 'I think you're cheating me.'" John said as they walked into the Mess.

"So what did you tell him?" Tali asked.

"I told him he could have his 50 Thalers back." John replied.

Natalya giggled, "What happened next?"

John poured himself a cup of coffee and continued relating the tale, "The Salarians are all slowly backing away, they just KNOW blood is about to be spilled. Commander Richards was a beefy man, and he looked ready to kill, his eyes almost flashing red, the whole nine yards. So I just pull the pile over, count out 50 Thalers, and slide them across the table to him. He downs his rum, and says 'I'll see you on the ship tomorrow morning Major, don't do anything I wouldn't do.' and walked out of the bar, whistling dixie. I swear I thought a couple of the bug-eye's hearts were going to explode as scared as they were."

Tali was laughing, "They had no idea you two knew each other?"

"Not a clue. The Salarian that had been stacking the cards didn't do it a single time again that night though, I won a good bit of money too." John replied.

"That seems like a convoluted plan if your aim was to scare him. It does make for an entertaining story though." Natalya commented.

"The money was worth it to get that good a laugh." John said, taking a seat.

There was a groan from the other table, John looked over, "Alenko, you all right?"

The Lieutenant's head shot up, "Uh, yes sir. Sorry sir."

Jenkins was sitting at the same table and spoke up, "The Lieutenant here decided not to heed my advice about staying away from Quarian drinks unless you're familiar with them. I'd just like to point out that I have refrained from saying 'I told you so' so far."

"Until just then you mean." Williams observed.

"Err.. yes." Jenkins replied.

"Ah Alenko. Always accept the advice of your NCOs, if you don't you will probably live to regret it." John stated.

"Words to live by Commander." Jenkins said with a smirk.

Alenko was almost out of it, ignoring everything that was said. He sat up for a moment, "Are you sure I'm not going to die?"

"What did he drink?" Tali asked.

"Caeriya and some Jobolt shots." Jenkins said, just barely holding in laughter.

John chuckled at the Lieutenant's misfortune, "No you won't die Alenko, but you might regret that before it's over. Why'd you let him mix those Jenkins?"

"I made sure he didn't drink enough to really hurt him. I just figured this would be a learning experience." Jenkins said defensively.

"I suppose. A toast, to the wonderful Terran implants that allow us to enjoy such distinct and otherwise dangerous liquids." John said.

"Here here." Jenkins agreed, holding up his own cup of coffee.

"Agreed." Tali stated.

There was a flop as Alenko passed out, "Jenkins, Williams, you two can drag him to his quarters, you got him into this mess. Then get back to work." John ordered.

"Yes sir." They replied, picking the Lieutenant up and carrying him out of the Mess.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Armory, INF Normandy. 1645 Hours.

Jenkins walked into the Armory. He had spent the last 4 hours checking, then double checking the new torpedoes. They had given him no end of trouble. But he finally got them calibrated and situated correctly, along with the Ordnance Techs. Now he was going to do a final inventory while they were still in dock.

"Sergeant. I hope you don't mind, I was going over my personal weapons." Shiala greeted him from her weapon locker.

Jenkins froze. He had asked the Commander's permission to chase her over a week before, but hadn't acted on it yet. Truth be told he was apprehensive about approaching her. He had been with women before of course, Human, Batarian, even a Quarian girl when he was on leave on Ellasa, but that was just sex. He felt a connection with Shiala, something more than just attraction, and he had never felt that before. It was new and unusual to him.

He recovered quickly, "Of course not Shiala. Anyone in the Squads are welcome in my Armory. It's only the Security Marines I run out." He finished with a smirk.

"Yes, I have noticed a bit of a rivalry between the Marines that get deployed and the ones that stay on the ship." Shiala commented.

"Everyone who performs a different role always likes to think they have the most necessary job there is. It's all in good fun, we give them hell, they give us hell, Force Recon Marines give both of us hell, and Black Squad Marines.. well actually they don't give you hell, they just slit throats in the middle of the night." Jenkins said.

"I see." Shiala said with a touch of amusement. Conversations with Sergeant Jenkins were always enjoyable.

Jenkins decided to forgo doing another inventory like he had planned. He turned back to the other occupant of the room, "Shiala, when you're done checking over those, would you like to get a drink and talk for a bit?"

"Talk? Yes, yes I would. I haven't made any attempt to be social since I've joined Commander Shepard's Squad. I think I'd enjoy that." She replied, smiling.

He grinned from ear to ear, "Great."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Officer's Quarters, INF Normandy, April 11th, 0600 Hours.

Jenkins awoke sharply at 0600, the time he had his Neural Net set for. Slowly beginning to stretch he felt a weight on top of him. He opened one eye. 'Oh. Right.'

Shiala was sprawled over him, still sleeping. Jenkins grinned, apparently he had worn her out last night. 'And into this morning.' He thought.

He thought of the events of last night. They had left the Armory and went to the Officer's Mess, they had talked for hours, right through the night meal and past. It was strange, he connected with her as he had with few people during his life. He had never made friends easily, he considered Commander Shepard one, and Natalya and Tali as well. Now Shiala too. Well, maybe more than a friend.

They had talked about so much, history, politics, weapons, tactics, technology. Shiala was well versed in Imperial Tactics and Technology, apparently since they had rescued her from the Thorian she had made it her mission to absorb Imperial Culture and Military Doctrine. They had eventually made their way to his cabin, and well, one thing led to another...

The door panel beeped, "Jenkins! I need to get some of my things, get some damn clothes on you and the Asari before I get in there." Wrex barked.

'Oh frag me.' He thought.

"Shiala, wake up." Jenkins said, gently pushing the woman.

Her eyes opened, she looked up at him, "Hmm.. Morning lover."

Jenkins smiled, "Morning. We need to get some clothes on fast, Wrex is about to come blasting through the door."

"Ah." Shiala said simply, rolling off of him and searching for her clothes.

Jenkins threw his legs over the side, sitting on the edge of the bunk, shocked, "What the hell did we do to my quarters?"

Their clothing was strewn haphazardly across the room. The chairs that normally sat at the desk were nowhere to be.. ah, there they were. One stuffed into Wrex's bunk, and the second was.. wedged into the shared closet.

"You threw the chairs away, saying you had other plans for the desk, then you sat me onto it and rutted my brains out." Shiala explained.

"Ah, yes. I remember that part now." He said with a grin, gathering his clothes.

They both dressed very quickly, Jenkins walked over to the door and opened it.

"About time. Shouldn't take that long to get dressed after a night of mating." Wrex stated, walking in.

"Uh, yeah, sorry. Where did you stay last night?" Jenkins asked.

Wrex was rifling through a drawer in the desk, "I saw you two leave the Mess, so I figured where you were going to end up. I bunked with Williams, since that cabin had a free slot."

Shiala tilted her head, giving the Krogan a strange look.

Wrex found the datastick he was trying to find. He saw her, "Get your mind out of the gutter Asari. I don't go after a claimed female."

"Well, thanks Wrex." Jenkins said as Wrex turned to leave.

"Don't worry about it Jenkins." The Krogan replied, then stopped for a moment, turning around, "If you're gonna make it a permanent arrangement though, let me know ahead of time so we can switch cabins."

"I'll let you know if it comes to that Wrex." Jenkins replied.

The Krogan bared his teeth slightly, the equivalent of a smirk, and then left the room.

Jenkins turned back to Shiala, "An irritable Krogan isn't on my list of things I want to deal with first thing in the morning."

Shiala chuckled, "I don't doubt that. Sergeant--"

He cut her off, "We spent a night together, call me Leeroy."

She smiled, "Alright. Leeroy, I don't know what exactly last night meant to you, if it was just sex or if you're looking for a relationship, or something else."

"I don't know. But I think we could be good together, so how about we just go along with this for now and see what happens?" He offered.

Shiala nodded, "I can get on board with that plan."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bridge, INF Normandy, 0730 Hours.

"Updated Troop Movements and Enemy Positions data Commander, transferring to your Neural Net." Normandy announced.

"Thank you Normandy. Any word on the 'Quaria' yet?" John asked.

"Not yet Commander." Normandy replied.

"Alright then. Transfer the positional data to the galaxy map." John ordered.

The holo display changed to a representation of Quarian Space, and the bordering systems.
The Geth Fleets were clearly shown in a pulsing orange. They had been amassing at Relay 744, just on the other side of the Veil for several days now. The relay led to a number of systems, including Maji, where the 'Quaria' and her attendant fleet had moved to defend.

Something caught John's eye, "Magnify Relay 738 System."

The map zoomed to that system, the display showing the relay on the outskirts of a small, three planet system. There were dozens of Geth ships in the system, Cruisers and Frigates, several days worth of data had been compiled, and unlike the other fleet the size of this one had remained steady.

"Now why would there be a Geth fleet in that system, and why are they just sitting there." John pondered.

'Accessing known Relay Corridors. Relay 738 connects to 4 known systems. Probable target would be Mindoir.' Wilco informed.

'Mindoir. The newest Quarian colony, their furthest reach into the Traverse.' John thought.

"Normandy, display Mindoir system, include defense data and all known Geth incursions." John ordered.

The display switched to Mindoir, showing the presence of several Quarian colony ships in system, and a small detachment from the Quarian Auxilia on guard.

"What are you thinking John?" Tali asked.

He held a hand up, blocking her questions for a moment. The display changed, adding in known Geth incursions.

"7 incursions by a Geth recon picket over the last three days? This cannot be a coincidence." He stated.

'The Quarians believe that Mindoir is far from a priority target. Also the small Auxiliary Fleet is still large enough to handle that size a Geth fleet.' Wilco stated.

"You think they are preparing for an attack on Mindoir?" Tali offered.

"That is a very juicy target. You Quarians still have a lot of colony ships that haven't been offloaded over the years, either through choice or logistics. Mindoir and Quaria are the two largest concentrations of them in the Empire. It doesn't exactly add up though. The Geth haven't attacked blindly, they've gone after key targets. Twice a Prothean Beacon, and they launched an entire offensive just to cover their invasion of Feros. They haven't just been attacking to kill as many as possible, they've been ruthless sure, but methodical and strategic. What am I missing?" He asked himself.

"That size a fleet isn't an invasion force, even against a system as lightly defended as Mindoir. That raises two possibilities." Nihlus spoke.

"Go on." John said.

Nihlus continued, "The first possibility is it's a marauder fleet. They just attack and kill as much as they can. If they simply came in and started shooting they would be able to take out several colony ships before they were destroyed. But like you said that isn't consistent with their previous tactics. The second possibility is that it is an escort fleet, and they're waiting for something. Maybe Dreadnoughts."

"Or maybe a Reaper." Tali stated.

"Normandy, are either the Marathon or the Iwo Jima ready for battle yet?" John asked.

"Negative Commander, they are both still in dry dock." Normandy informed.

"We'll go it alone then. Inform the defense fleet we are moving for a reconnaissance flight. I want us en route to the Relay 738 system within ten minutes." John ordered.

"Course plotted Commander, clearance and well wishes received from Quaria Orbital." Pressly stated.

"Get us there then. As fast as possible." John ordered.

"Affirmative. ETT to Relay 738 system is 27 hours." Pressly stated.

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

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Commander's Quarters, INF Normandy. 1930 Hours.

John was sitting at the computer terminal in his quarters when Tali walked in.

"Tali, what are you up to?" He greeted..

"I was coming to ask you the same question, Husband." She said, walking over to him.

John grinned, grabbing her and pulling her into his lap, "You push all kinds of my buttons when you talk that way darling." He whispered into her ear.

She shuddered, "No more than you."

"I am good at that aren't I." He said, before continuing, "I was actually sending a mail off to the Shepard Estates, telling them of the events of the past few months. I haven't done that for quite awhile."

"I see." Tali said.

"They'll in turn relay the news to the rest of the family as it is warranted. I'm also checking my own mail for the first time in.. 6 months." John explained.

Tali quirked an eyebrow, "I hope you did not miss anything important."

"Not really. Just a couple of updates on the family. Billy was transferred to the Sixth Fleet, which I already know now of course. James, my twin brother, is in the Inquisition, he was a Hunter but he finally received a commission as a full Inquisitor. One of my cousins, in House Kuroko, was killed in the first Geth attack on Casbin."

"I'm sorry." Tali said.

John smiled, "Don't be. He died in battle, protecting our brothers and the Imperial Standard, that is the end every Terran aspires to. He brought great honor on House Kuroko with his sacrifice, he was a fighter pilot, he was killed in a lone attack on a Geth Frigate Pack, buying time for the unarmed transports full of Quarian Auxiliaries to make it out of the attack zone. Of course, you bring more honor onto your House if you live through such an act."

"I think I understand. Back on Camala, when I told you I didn't know you had a brother, what were you going to explain to me?" Tali asked.

John thought for a minute, "Ah, I remember. I assumed you knew I had siblings. Noble Terrans always bear at least a set of twins, if not more."

"I didn't know that." Tali replied.

"I guess it's an easy thing to miss. Usually family won't get assigned to the same ship. Installations are a different story though." John explained.

"Commander, you are needed on the Bridge. We have entered the Mindoir system, the Geth beat us here." Normandy announced.

"On my way, if the Stealth systems aren't up already get them up!" John ordered.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bridge, INF Normandy, Mindoir System. 1958 Hours.

"Report." John ordered as soon as the Bridge doors opened.

"Geth fleet attacking Mindoir, the Reaper is with them." Pressly informed.

John jumped into the command chair, "Engage ICS."

He closed his eyes for a moment, absorbing the incoming data.

The Geth fleet was engaging several Auxiliary Fleet ships, a mixture of Frigates and Escort Carriers. The Reaper on the other hand had broken through their attempt at a picket line, and was busy attacking the colony ships and Cargo Trains in orbit. Carving through them with some kind of energy beam, a blood red stream. 4 of the ships were destroyed, crippled and broken in orbit, untold thousands of Quarians already dead.

'Lock in for a torpedo run on the Reaper vessel. Load the tubes for a full salvo.' John ordered.

'Attack vector locked. Disbursement range set at 12000 yards, TTT 335 seconds.' Normandy informed.

'Order the two Battlecruisers to hit that beast at the same time we do.' John ordered.

'Auxiliary Battlecruisers acknowledge, coordinating strike package.' Normandy replied.

The Quarian Battlecruisers broke off from the picket line, lining up for an attack run on the huge kraken-like ship.

John watched helplessly as another Quarian ship was cut apart. Engines were at 145% of maximum thrust, there was no more speed to be had.

The minutes ticked by as another ship was destroyed, this time a Cargo Train, a very large transport vessel.

Finally they closed into range, the Battlecruisers already hitting the Reaper with their own torpedoes and beam fire.

'Disbursement range in 10... Torpedoes away.' Normandy announced.

All eight of the Normandy's torpedoes were launched, one pair after the other.

'Battlecruisers closing to cannon range, all torpedoes going hot.' Normandy announced.

The Battlecruisers were close enough to bombard the Reaper vessel with their main armament, heavy plasma cannons, the energy bolts hitting the enemy, punching through it's Kinetic barrier with remarkable ease.

The ship turned suddenly, far faster than any vessel that size had a right to. Red beams sprung from it, hitting the Battlecruisers with incredible force. Their shields collapsed in seconds, the beam breaking through and slicing the Quarian ships, destroying them.

The Disbursement Torpedoes impacted the vessel's Kinetic Barriers, detonating with enough force to move the Reaper ship through space, the momentum temporarily overwhelming the ship's engines.

As the explosion dissipated though, John was left shocked.

'Torpedoes did not penetrate enemy Barriers, no damage to enemy vessel.' Normandy informed.

'Evasive, Now.' John ordered as energy beams began cutting through space, attempting to find the Normandy.

The Normandy rolled and flipped, making haste out of range. The Reaper kept up the fire for a moment, then apparently satisfied turned it's attention back to the helpless colony ships.

John shut down for a moment, considering the options. 'Normandy, line up for a strafing run. Order the defenders to attack the Reaper.' He said gravely.

'Vector locked. Time to cannon range is 70 seconds.' Normandy replied.

John felt a comforting hand on his shoulder, looking back to his left he saw Tali standing there.
He brought his own hand up, placing it over hers. Their eyes locked, he felt the emotions roiling inside her. They both knew this was a suicide run, a last ditch strike.

Tali nodded her head, ever so slightly. John calmed then, a wave of serenity rolling over him. He turned back to the map.

The Reaper destroyed the last colony ship in orbit. Turning suddenly and making haste toward the relay.

'Abort the attack. Order the defenders to pull back to Mindoir.' John ordered.

'Affirmative Commander, relaying orders.' Normandy replied.

He slumped back in the command chair, drained and distraught, "Disengage ICS."

The data streams slowly fizzled and he watched as the Reaper hit the relay, heading off to a destination unknown.

"Relay this incident to Quaria and Arcturus, and plot a course back to Quaria." John ordered.

"I guess I was wrong." Nihlus said solemnly.

"We all were." Tali replied.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INF Normandy, Quaria System, April 12th, 0840 Hours.

"Relay cleared." Pressly announced.

"Commander, the Reaper is in system, attacking a convoy near Quaria. Defenders are calling for any available assistance." Normandy announced.

"Move to assist. I was afraid of this. Engage ICS." John ordered.

The defenders were spread out, one wing attacking the incoming Geth fleet, another trying to defend the convoy, another being harassed by Geth forces on the other side of the system.

The Battlecruisers were facing off against the Geth Dreadnoughts, while 6 Assault Carriers were unleashing beam weapons and wave after wave of Strike Craft against the Reaper. Cruisers, Frigates, Gunboats, and all manner of Strike Craft were attacking and being attacked throughout the system.

'Open a channel.' John ordered.

'Channel opened Commander.' Normandy informed.

"This is Commander Shepard, I am assuming control of the defense forces. All Battlecruisers, break off and attack the Reaper. Carriers and Strike Craft attack the Geth Dreadnoughts, aim for the engine pods. All other vessels provide cover and support." John ordered.

'Defense Fleet acknowledges.' Normandy announced.

The Battlecruisers broke off, making for Sovereign as waves of Strike Craft and long range torpedoes and missiles hit the Geth Dreadnoughts, two of them went down quickly.

The convoy being attacked consisted of the bulk of colony ships in the system. Apparently they had made for a retreat as soon as Sovereign entered the system, but were caught by the Reaper vessel's superior speed. Three were already nothing but debris, destroyed completely.

A group of 6 Battlecruisers made it to the Reaper first, firing energy beams and missiles at the large Dreadnought, then closing and firing a barrage of plasma fire.

Sovereign turned in a second, and just as quickly the Battlecruisers were destroyed, the Reaper ship turning back toward the convoy.

'Plasma fire can hurt that beast, but their weapons can kill us a lot faster. Order the Battlecruisers to form up, make a strafing run in a single group, maybe we can overwhelm him.' John ordered.

'Orders acknowledged.' Normandy replied.

'Move to attack those Geth Frigates that are covering Sovereign. Lock in for attack run, weapons free.' John ordered.

'Vector locked. TTT 7 seconds.' Normandy informed.

The Normandy streaked across space, strafing the Pack of enemy Frigates, lances of energy piercing their hulls, three of them destroyed in a single pass. The 4th hit the newly formed debris field, the entire pack neutralized.

'Massive Relay activity, receiving Turian IFF codes.' Normandy announced.

'The Turian Home Fleet? They're early. Open a channel.' John ordered.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Command Deck, TMD 'Prathia'

"Fleet reports clear of the Relay. Massive Geth activity in the system. Confirmed: 7 Geth Dreadnoughts and the Reaper Dreadnought, over a hundred Cruisers and several hundred Frigates." The Tactical Officer announced.

"Order the second and third attack wings to take on the Dreadnoughts, all other ships attack Sovereign." Lord General Septimus ordered.

"Incoming transmission." The Comm Officer informed.

"Put it through." Septimus replied.

The speakers activated, "This is Commander Shepard to Turian Fleet, attack Sovereign, take that beast down no matter the cost."

"We acknowledge Commander. All attack wings, concentrate fire on the Reaper Dreadnought." Septimus ordered.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bridge, INF Normandy.

'Iwo Jima and Marathon are signaling, they are entering combat.' Normandy announced.

'Good news, have them make their way to us.' John ordered.

'Orders relayed. Two more Cruisers moving to support Sovereign.' Normandy announced.

'Strafing run, weapons free.' John ordered, concentrating on the Reaper.

The Turian Fleet was pouring massive amounts of M/A fire into the enemy ship, but it was having little effect. The Battlecruisers were being attacked again by the Geth Dreadnoughts, keeping them from attacking Sovereign, the few that had broke through being cut down quickly. The Quarian forces were close to reaching their combat loss grouping.

'We're going to need a miracle to win this one.' He thought darkly.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Command Deck, TMD 'Prathia'

"Kinetic Barriers are holding on the Reaper vessel. Weapons are having no effect." The Tactical Officer announced.

Lord General Septimus looked over the battlefield display. The Reaper was tearing through the Quarian ships that were able to penetrate the Geth line, they were being slaughtered.

He thought back, remembering the words the Empress had spoke to him.

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

The Empress was calm, but spoke firmly, "This is the price of redemption Lord General. Your species has never proven themselves truly loyal, even as you personally have. Prove yourselves loyal and worthy Lord General, this is the command of your Empress."

"I understand my Liege. We shall defend the Quarians with our lives and souls, we will make any sacrifice necessary. This I swear." He responded, kneeling.

The Empress smiled, "Do this Lord General, do this and there shall be a reckoning. Your species will be redeemed, transformed and reborn."

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

"Open a channel to the entire fleet." Septimus ordered.

"Channel open sir." The Comm Officer replied.

"Turian Home Fleet, this is Lord General Septimus. We will do what must be done. We shall pay for the future with our blood today, for duty, for Empress and Empire. Initiate Attack Pattern 4. Forward unto Glory!"

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bridge, INF Normandy.

'The Turian Fleet is breaking formation, they are moving toward Sovereign.' Normandy announced.

John watched as dozens of picket ships streaked toward the Reaper vessel, firing at incredible rates. 'They must be overriding their heat gauges, they're going to cook themselves. Unless..'

"Gods and Kings!" He exclaimed out loud as they slammed into the Reaper, smashing themselves into it's Kinetic Barriers.

Sovereign turned, firing wildly at the incoming Turian vessels, but they overwhelmed the weapons systems, dozens more ramming the Dreadnought.

He watched as 3 squadrons of Turian Cruisers bore on the Reaper, crashing into the enemy vessel.

'The Kinetic Barriers on the Reaper are down!' Normandy announced.

Suddenly the Reaper vessel sprung into action, moving at high speed away from the attacking forces.

'It's heading for the relay, retreating!' John thought.

'Remains of the Geth fleet are in full flight.' Normandy informed.

'Disengage ICS and open a channel to the defenders.' John ordered.

"ICS disengaged, channel open." Normandy announced.

"All Imperial forces, this is Commander Shepard. Stand down, let the Geth run back to their space and share the tale far and wide of how their 'god' ran from the Empire." John said.

"Defenders acknowledge. Incoming transmission from the Turian Fleet." Normandy informed.

"Put it through Normandy." John replied.

The comm opened, "Commander Shepard, this is General Septimus, looks like we are victorious. I'm glad we were able to make it in time."

"Believe me General, you're not any happier than we are." John said.

"I can believe that. The Turian Home Fleet stands ready to assume defensive duties by your order." Septimus stated.

"Quarian Command can give you further instructions General. How did you make it so fast? Last we heard you were still a day out." John asked.

"We received word of the Geth incursions and decided to move forward at emergency speed. We shaved several years of service life off of our engine cores, but it was worth it." Septimus replied.

"That it was General, thank you. Shepard out." He finished and closed the channel.

"We did it. I did not think we were going to make it there for a time." Tali said.

"We all did it. One enemy humiliated, one ally redeemed. This could have gone much, much worse. Get us into a dock, I want to be resupplied as soon as possible, though I doubt the Geth will be back anytime soon." John ordered.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comm room, INF Normandy, April 12th, 1435 Hours.

As John entered the Comm room, he saw the vidscreen was already active, showing Empress Sativia

"Empress Sativia." He greeted.

"Cousin. We have received your report of the attacks on Mindoir and Quaria. The Turians performed the act that Fate required of them, they have finally earned their place. You have performed admirably, and now your work there is done. The Geth are in full flight deeper into their territory, and have ceased all attacks on Imperial positions. Return to Arcturus." The Empress ordered.

"By your order Empress." John replied before the channel closed.

He walked back out to the Bridge, sitting down in the command chair, "Pressly, plot a course for Arcturus. Normandy, open a channel to the 'Prathia'."

"Channel open." Normandy announced.

"General, I have orders to return to Arcturus. You have command of the defense forces until Grand Admiral Yallar'Rayya returns." John said.

"Understood Commander. It was an honor fighting beside you, good hunting." General Septimus acknowledged.

"Likewise General, Shepard out." John replied as the channel closed, "Undock and get us on course for Arcturus."

"Course plotted Commander, we have cleared the moorings." Pressly informed.

"Good." John stated.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End of Chapter Thirteen.

A/N: Thanks for the review HoodedAssassin. Interesting idea about a Turian consort, it is an intriguing possibility. I am planning on Shepard picking up atleast another female, so we'll see how the cards fall.