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They were finally on their way to Aya to meet with the Resistance Leader. Evfra de Turd-head. She'd heard about his attitude, and didn't particularly think she'd like him very much. He was gruff and distrustful, angered easily, and was constantly frowning. Nikita had set herself up in the Tech Lab, her chair in one corner, and single sized bed just beside the workbench. She had her footlocker up next to the door, along with a gunnery station and a small bag of...formal wear. She hated the thought of having to wear it again, but Viveka said Nick needed to make a good impression on their faction leaders. Nikita hated dresses. With a passion. She hated anything she couldn’t fight properly in. She also hated small enclosed spaces, which is why she’d set up lights in each corner of the room, making it feel larger than it actually was. Talking to Viveka right now was damn near impossible, as she was always making rounds and checking in on her crew, and she always-always-had Jaal with her. The damned Angara was clingy to an extreme level. Then again, that suited Viv just fine. She was a clingy type of person as well. And when they finally-FINALLY-got time to talk, someone would call her attentions elsewhere for this reason or that. Crew members sometimes came over for a short talk, but she was in no mood for their company. She wanted time with her fucking sister. Just one fucking conversation. ---------- Viveka was still a little mad at Cora. Cora had told Tann she was strategically seducing Jaal for information. Not cool. Not at all what was going on. After she told Jaal of Cora’s deception of Tann—whether it was intentional or not—he seemed unaffected. He had simply shrugged and told her he could feel her love for him, what others thought were their own worries, and shouldn't be their's. So, she didn’t punch Cora. Corrected her thoughts about them, yes, but didn’t punch her. Jaal had been lavishing her in attention since that evening in the park, and it was welcome and adorable. Sometimes, she saw him giving a quick glance around to make sure no one was watching before he’d suddenly grab her and steal a few kisses from her. It left her blushing and giggling like a teenager who’d just been kissed by their crush every time. Still, when they got the message to call Evfra as soon as possible, her heart clenched. She needed this alliance to work, for more than just her relationship with Jaal, but both of their people. It took only a moment to bring up his contact on her personal vidcom in the Pathfinder Quarters. Jaal sat in a chair beside her as she opened up the connection. Evfra’s face appeared on the small holo, his scowl in place as normal. “Ryder. Jaal.” “Hello again, Evfra.” Viveka said with a serious look on her face. “Evfra! We are on our way to Aya now!” Jaal says, wrapping his arm around Viveka and grinning. “What was it you wanted to discuss?” “I see you have not given up on bedding the human, Jaal.” Evfra said, rolling his eyes. “She is my darling one, Evfra, my heart lies with her.” Jaal says proudly, causing Viveka to blush. “Jaal, we’re having a business call, we’re going to have a talk about professionalism. Evfra, please, ignore Jaal’s...excited outbursts and continue.” Viveka said, leaning forward to place her elbows on the table and hook her fingers together. Jaal leaned back with a sigh, though the view of her bottom was not bad… “Jaal Ama Darav, I need your technical skills to break the shielding code around the Kett Facility that contains the Moshae. I will need you come for reassignment as soon as you land.” Evfra said and Jaal frowned. “I will no--” “I can break the shielding, Commander.” Viveka spoke up, sitting up straight. “Jaal is brilliant, and of course you would be wise to choose him first among your troops for this, however with my A.I. I can get us in--” They were interrupted by Nikita entering Viveka’s quarters, her leg braces hidden under her full body light armor suit. The black fabric of the tight suit shimmered with cybernetic weave, accented by an N7 red stripe down right arm. She came over, placing her unclothed left arm on her hip and bringing her chin up defiantly. Evfra looked over at the second human, his eyes narrowing and his lip curling in distaste. His eyes snapped back to Viveka. “Ryder, explain to me why there are two of you. And why I should continue letting two of you exist.” He growled, rubbing his forehead. Nick snorted. “I’m her twin sister, big guy, no need to get your panties in a twist.” Nick said, leaning an elbow on Viveka’s chair. “Now sis, continue with what you were saying.” "Pan-tees in a what?" Jaal asked, but Viv gave him a look that said 'later'. “Uh...yeah...My A.I. can get us through any shield much faster and quieter than any organic being.” Viveka said, glancing over at Nikita who smirked. “Our A.I. is connected to us Ryders. We’ll fuck up whatever needs to be fucked up.” Evfra frowned, looking at Nikita. Her scars on her visible arm were prominent, they marked her fingers, hand, and all the way up to wear her skin disappeared beneath cloth at the shoulder. The collar of the light armor was uncharacteristically open, not touching her neck, though it was obvious it was made to be closed. This one was obviously the fighter of the two, and he wondered why the weaker of the two was Pathfinder. “You are assuming much, human.” Evfra said, his eyes hardening as he looked at Nikita. “These humans are going to fucking take down a shield faster than ten of your top fucking specialists, Angara. And I can fucking bet it on the damned Alliance you two are trying to set up.” Nick said, crossing her arms under her breasts and giving a toothy smirk. “Nick—we’re going to rescue one of their most important people from a large Kett outpost—you w--” Viveka started but Nick cut her off. “I have guns, biotics, and I’m better on the field than you. I’m coming.” Nick snapped out, turning her eyes to Evfra. “Or would you rather I threaten their fucking planet if you die.” Jaal sighed. “I would not allow Viveka to die, beloved sister. Viveka, my darling, Nikita’s presence at the shielding can speed up the A.I.’s processing power—would it not? She can help get us all in and out, she doesn’t need to be in the battles within the base.” Viveka rounded on Jaal, a scowl on her face. “Jaal Ama Darav, I will not have my sister with us on this mission! She's still recoverring!” Jaal smiled, taking her hand. “If you were to be left behind, you would be arguing to be brought along, darling. Give your sister some leniency, dearest one. I will not allow anything to happen to either of you.” Evfra watched the exchange silently, an eyebrow raising as Viveka caved in, turning to her sister. “Fine, but after this mission you’re back to physical therapy.” “My legs work just fine for one fucking mission, Viv, lay off.” She turned to the screen with her bright blue eyes shining triumphantly. “See you on Aya, big guy.” With that she turned heel and left, a saunter in her step that Viveka never had. Viveka sighed and looked at Evfra. “So, yeah, A.I. hacking the shield. Sorry about the sudden guest, she’s… well, her personal motto is ‘I got this’. She’s an amazing fighter, but she is… recovering at the moment. She will join us for taking down the shield and leave on the shuttle and provide biotic background support.” Evfra’s let out a hum and hooked his fingers together, looking over his knuckles at his lieutenant's bond mate. “Tell me more about this...Biotic support.” “Biotic shielding. We can shield nearby allies from attacks, we can provide secondary shielding on up to four targets, we have the ability to create a dome of shielding around us to provide shielded extraction. We can also lift and pull targets to us with our biotics, which is incredibly useful for groups of wounded. With Stasis we can freeze a target for a short amount of time, preventing stronger enemies from getting to us during extraction. We also have annihilation fields which will force enemies into the air, nullifying their connection with planetary gravity.” Viveka smiled. “That’s just some of our defensive abilities.” “And you have these abilities as well.” Evfra said, watching as she nodded. “Nikita’s biotics are stronger than my own. She can create biotic shields that wrap around limbs and help wounded soldiers run on broken legs or use broken arms to climb. I can’t do that. She would be best put to use on an extraction team, even though her legs are not functioning at their best at the moment, I know her biotics will be making up for that in the field. I do not want her in the Moshae Rescue team for personal interests and attachments. I will be slowed down worrying about her.” “And you do not worry about Jaal?” Evfra asked and Viveka snorted. “Jaal is perfectly healthy, Nick only just begun walking again. Her leg muscles are still healing, but she isn’t going to back down from this. She will find her way on the mission one way or the other.” Viveka said with a sigh. “Jaal has proven multiple times that he can work with me without an issue, he will duck when needed. Nikita has so many scars because she’s basically a human tank." She paused for a moment, shifting in her seat uncomfortably. "And a lot from...something I can't talk about without her permission. Her life since we were fifteen has been fighting. She's more than capable of joining the extraction team.” “Hn.” Evfra said, looking lost in thought a moment. “When you arrive on Aya bring your ground team and...your sister...to Resistance Head Quarters. We will discuss tactics there. Bring your A.I. as well.” “He’s physically connected to me, my sister has a higher grade implant for our A.I. but I am the...organic hub? I guess?” Viveka said, looking over to the SAM node on her desk.
SAM(Pathfider Quarters): The Pathfinder serves as a mobile platform, as I am integrated with her neurological system. I see the world through The Pathfinder. Commander Nikita Ryder’s implant provides as a secondary digital platform, and allows me to get limited access to her neurological functions. Together, I am at full capacity and can run 72.346651% more programs at a 232.51% faster rate. If the Ryders are both in close proximity, I am, in a sense, complete.
Evfra looked startled at the A.I.’s voice for all of a second before he narrowed his eyes. “It was a risk to reveal your A.I., Pathfinder. You and your sister have shown you are bold, and arrogant. Much like myself. After this mission we will discuss your Alliance. Evfra out.” The holo screen blipped out and Viveka turned to find her sister. Jaal was hot on her heels before she turned and gave him a sharp look. Sheepishly, he returned to their quarters and began plugging in his equipment. He knew there was going to be a fight between the two siblings, his first instinct was to play mediator, but he supposed this needed to happen. He moved his toolkit on top of his new custom workbench, just to the left of their bed. He smiled at the thought. This was their room now, more so now that he’d moved his equipment in. It was a step forward in the right direction. ------- Viveka entered the Tech Lab and crossed her arms. “Why are you so determined to kill yourself?” She asked and Nick snorted. “I’m not going to fucking let you go into the fucking field without me, Viv. Not even with your giant ass boyfriend covering your ass.” Nikita said as she sat on the bed, having already removed her light armor and was beginning to remove her leg braces for the night. “You know I'm not just going to sit around while your unobservant ass gets killed.” “I’ve had time to fix that, Nick. I’ve been fighting these guys for a couple months now, I’ve been--” “I don’t give a shit how long you’ve been at this. I was fucking asleep, Alec fucking forced your hand. I’m going to be on your team from now on, whether you like it or not.”“Damn it, Nikki, I fought with Tann and Addison to get you off the Nexus for you to fucking not listen to me? This is my god damn team, not yours!” “It should have been! You’re too god damn soft for war!” “I have been doing just fine. Thanks for the fucking confidence. You’re on this mission, but after this you’re back to medical. I’m not going to deal with this insubordination from my god damned sister.” Viveka snapped, turning from the room and leaving Nick alone. Fuck. Nick thought as she lay on her bed, her legs aching from being in use all day long. ----- Viveka walked into the Pathfinder’s Quarters with tears pricking her eyes. Nick was so stubborn. She was going to get herself killed. She turned to see Jaal at his work bench, looking over at her with a soft expression. “Dear one, come here.” He said, opening his arms up to her. Tears fell as she ran to him, leaping up into his arms and burying her face into his neck. He rubbed her back and purred, an arm hooked comfortably under her backside holding her up. “My star, we will make sure everything is fine. You would not sit on the ship during such a mission, I did not expect your sister to. She is as strong willed as you are, my darling.”“I know—I know! I just...she’s not ready for anything like this yet. Her legs--” “We will make sure she survives the mission. I will not allow our family to be harmed, my dearest one.” “Yeah...” She looked up at him and smiled a tight smile. “I said some mean things to her...I...” “I know. Siblings do that sometimes, when angered.” He chuckled and pressed a kiss to her forehead. “It will be fine. Come, let yourself rest. You can apologize to your sister after.” “You’re really, really too good for me.” She said with a little sniffle. “Dear one, it is you who are too good for me...and what are Pan-tees and why would they be twisted?” He asked, causing Viveka to laugh with amusement and hug him tight.
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Evfra leaned back in his chair, his lips pressed together in a thin line and his brow ridges drawn low. That girl—the Pathfinder’s sister—there was something in her eyes that made it impossible for him to leave out of the mission. He couldn’t know for sure the color of her eyes—likely the same odd blue-green of the Pathfinder—the blue tint of his communications device always washed over everything. Her pupils had been steady, even when she faced him, demanding her part on the team.She was sure she could keep her sister safe. She was going to be there, no matter what was said. Her family was important, and he felt that it was only right for her to go as well. Too many families have been destroyed by kett. There was no fear, no hesitation in those eyes. She was certain she and her sister would survive. She was absolute with her decision, not a moment did she waiver. It was something he hadn’t seen in his soldiers for years. Her confidence made him feel something he hadn’t felt in a long time.
Hope.
For the first time since the aliens had landed on Aya, this single human had made him feel secure about the mission to rescue the Moshae. She had single-handedly forced his anxiety and worry down, smashing them with a well trained fist. A very scarred fist. He looked down at his gloved hands. His hands were not so scarred, his body certainly was. From what he could tell from her arm, she had no shortage of scars. Yet, her face remained untouched. It was something odd, and he was almost certain they couldn’t have come from combat, the same as most of his own. His and Akksul’s captors had gone for the limbs, the torso, but never the face. He had gotten the scars on his face from a Rylkor on Veold as he escaped the kett slave camp, having taken as many fellow slaves as he could with him. The claws had torn through his skin, but it was nothing compared to the blades that punctured his flesh while he was bound. If he was right, her spirit and her love of her family would make her invaluable on this mission, despite whatever she was recovering from. Their A.I. was already useful as is, and if both of them had to be present for faster work, so be it. He looked around the room as the soldiers around him worked. Intel on the Kett Facility was still coming in, strategy specialists were sending out teams to hit Kett Camp in an obvious pattern that looked as if they were working towards securing specific ground. Smaller camps were being moved around, and the Scientists being relocated to the main bases of operation. They’d even used some resources to plant some fake light paths in the area around the kett camps, as if they were beginning to start up new bases. With luck, they’d have the advantage of surprise. ------ Jaal never got tired of watching Viveka sleep. She looked softer and somehow younger in her sleep, it intrigued him how much she seemed to change by just resting. Her breathing was always quiet in her sleep, save for a soft sigh or, his personal favorite, the little snort of discomfort with the scrunching of her nose.She always did that one when she drifted away from him at night, right before she rolled back to him. It was the most amazing thing, to see her want him near even in her sleep. Her eyelashes looked longer when her eyes were closed, hiding the water-worlds she had for eyes. Her cheeks flushed prettily when she was warm and cuddled up close to him. A small smile would drift onto her face if she woke to his warmth, while that crinkled nose would show up and her mouth would shift to a small frown if she woke too far away. Sometimes she wouldn’t even open her eyes, and simply roll over and snuggle into him before drifting off again. Now, though, with her waking slowly, he brought his hand to her cheek and caressed it with his thumb. She sleepily murmured something and turned her face, giving his palm a kiss before her eyes fluttered open to look at him. “You’re warm.” She said groggily just before he reached out and grabbed her. Viveka blushed as Jaal hefted her up to straddle his lap in their bed, a heavy deep purr rumbling from his chest as soon as he noticed she was awake. He’d been sitting next to her sleeping form for some time, reading on his hybrid omnitool he’d managed to get working in a similar fashion to Angara BioTools. “Darling one, I’m glad you slept well.” He murmured into her throat, nuzzling it softly with his flat nose. She giggled, his breath ticklish against her sensitive neck. “You’re so grabby lately, Jelly Bean.” She said and he chuckled, lifting his head to press a kiss to her jaw. “Do you dislike it?” He asked and she brought her hands up, rubbing her palms up the front of his cowl. ‘Neckflaps’ PeeBee recently called them, Viveka thought with an amused smile.“I don’t think I could dislike you giving me attention.” She leaned in close and kissed his collar bone and he shivered beneath her. “Oh, look at that. You’re sensitive here...” Viveka teased, grinning up at him. He huffed. “You like teasing me too much.” He pouted, dropping backwards onto his pillow, releasing her. He realized that was a mistake with her straddling him, blue rushing up his cowl when he realized just how their position looked. He growled low at her. “If you do not move, I may have to show you just how grabby I can be, my Temptress.” Viveka grinned, though a flush began creeping up, she leaned forward and kissed him gently. “I’ve gotta talk to Nick. I’ll give you one hour to use the shower, Jelly Bean.” He groaned, shifting beneath her, his need obvious under her ample bottom. He caved a bit, grabbing her ass and pressing himself up against her. “You are--” He tossed her on the other side of the bed. “--mean.” She laughed, all embarrassment of her forward behavior out the window as soon as he threw her.----- PeeBee threw her screwdriver down, annoyed at her lack of progress with her projects. She really, like, super really needed another piece of remtech! Like, forever ago needed! Ugh, why does spaceflight take so—wait. She pulled out a datapad and brought up the specs for their current FTL drive. Okay, so, she could work with this. They had already tweaked it a little to go faster...but she could integrate some remtech in…
Oh.
My.
Goddess.
She could be riding on the first remtech upgraded ship by now if she’d thought of this sooner! She was so stupid! Well, not stupid. She was obviously a genius to have come up with this.
Duh.
But, still! The possibilities! She could probably even upgrade the Nomad! Faster, stronger! Ryder driving proof shields!
Yes! This was going to be totally awesome!
Now where did that screwdriver run off to?
------------ Nick rolled over in her bed, gnawing at her lip in frustration. She hadn’t meant to undermine Viveka’s authority or anything! Especially while she was on the call with someone important...but she had always been so...Viveka. Viveka was the princess, damn it. She was always the knight in shining armor, even as kids! Now that Viveka had her Prince Charming—who was still ungodly purple and nauseatingly poetic—she didn’t seem to need protection. Well, not her protection at least. She turned over again, frustrated at the ache in her left leg. She’d walked around all day—she knew she had to give her legs rest now...but it was still annoyingly boring.
God damn it, why did I have to go off on her like that?
Nick rolled over on her belly and screamed into her pillow. ------- Viveka fidgeted with her fingers on the way to the Tech Lab. What was she going to say? Was Nick still mad? Of course she was still mad. They’d yelled at each other. Said awful things. Just a couple hours ago. And, worse, she’d yelled at Nick at the end of the day when she knew Nick was probably hurting. She began pacing up and down the hall, running a hand through her hair in worry. Okay, so, you have to set your foot down about being in charge...but also let Nick know you understand and she was welcome on the mission. She sighed as PeeBee popped through the doorway to the bridge. “Heya! What’cha walkin’ holes in the ship for?” PeeBee asked, hooking her arm in Viv’s and practically dragging her to the biolab. “Uh...Weeeelllllll….” Viveka started, incredibly uncomfortable as the asari drug her over to the Rylkor Eggs. “Goddess! They’re hatching!” Viveka suddenly got an idea, grabbing one egg she rushed to the Tech Lab, stumbling as she ran to Nick’s bed.Nick sat up just in time to have a Rylkor egg shoved into her hands. “Wait right here! Uh, it’s a surprise!” Viveka said before rushing off to PeeBee again. “The fuck?” Nick said, staring wide eyed at the egg. Moments later PeeBee and Viv came in with supplies, the other egg safely in PeeBee’s hand. “Okay, so, you’re gonna have to feed it this nutrient paste crap the Angara eat—then this piece of vishtaar, which basically is just a weird plant that these guys eat. Make sure it stays looking at you the entire time!” PeeBee said, sitting on the foot of the bed while Viv placed a bowl of paste next to each of them and a sprig of vishtaar—it was a red stemmed plant with weirdly yellow leaves and almost mushroom-looking yellow flowers. PeeBee’s was the first to hatch, much to PeeBee’s excitement. It was goldenrod yellow in color, with deep, forest green ridges. There was some slightly brighter green spots on its flank, and an odd grey-blue band of color over the top of is muzzle, stopping just above the mouth. Both of it’s mandibles were spotted in the same gray-blue color, which speckled down its neck as well fading away before it hit it’s chest.It trilled lightly as PeeBee hovered a spoonful of paste, then watched in delight as it began to eat. PeeBee grabbed the whole bowl, hovering it so it was tilted up, forcing the Rylkor chick to look at her while it ate. “I’m gonna name you Sparky.” PeeBee cooed at the chick, just as Nick’s hatched open. A dark blue chick tumbled out, with pinkish-red stripes running across its back, striping its ridges. Orange freckle-like spots covered its body, and it’s face was white with a smudge of bright blue on its forehead that faded into white at the end of the muzzle. Nick immediately copied PeeBee, eyes wide at the creature before her. She gulped as the Rylkor chick soon snatched the sprig of vishtaar from her fingers and gobbled that down too. Trilling happily, the little Rylkor sat on its haunches in Nick’s lap, looking up at her with bright blue eyes, it’s tail wrapping around it’s hind legs as it pulled its much shorter arms up to its chest, cocking its head at her. Nick looked at Viveka, clearly shocked. “Did you seriously just give me a dinosaur?”
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When Jaal arrived to the Tech Lab—after everyone else had come to look at the Rylkor chicks, including one very happy Lexi who scanned the two chicks and ran off to look at her results, he was only in his olasajinn and still dripping with water. Nick was rubbing her chick’s head while PeeBee was wrangling hers back from the edge of the bed.Jaal grinned as Viveka reached forward and timidly ran a finger under Nick’s chick’s jaw, causing it to turn its head and scratch at a mandible with its small front talons. “It would seem that PeeBee has a male...and the other is female.” Jaal said, walking forward and tapping Sparky on the snout when it wandered too close to the edge of the bed again. It ran straight to PeeBee. “Jelly Bean, they’re so cute! I gave my egg to Nick, just before it hatched! We’re trying to name her.”Nick wore a soft smile on her face, even as the Rylkor tried to climb up her shirt. “She is really fucking calm, compared to Sparky.” “Yes, females are more docile. They make better companions than males do. Males are usually used for protection, females as pack animals.” Jaal said, running a hand through Viveka’s hair as he stood beside her seated form. “Sparky, you hear that? You’re gonna come out n fight with us, aren’t you? Yup. You’re a good..uh...boy...chick...thing.” PeeBee said, scrunching her nose. “Whatever. You’re just Sparky. Cuz you came from Sparkles. I think. Maybe. Whatever.” Jaal and Viveka laughed at that, causing both chicks to run over to PeeBee and Nick in surprise. Sparky was peeking around PeeBee’s middle, hissing at the two, while Nick’s chick had found it’s way onto her shoulder and was looking at them with wide blue eyes. Sparky took a moment to jump off PeeBee and growl in a high pitched non-threatening way before running back to his caretaker and looking up at her with narrowed green eyes. It squawked at her, and she laughed at him as he let out a series of clicks and turned his head to the side. “I’m gonna name her...Talya.” Nick said, plucking the chick off her shoulder and setting it back down on her lap. Talya gave out an unhappy trill before turning and looking at Sparky, who suddenly pounced on her. Sparky and Talya tussled a bit before Jaal reached over and tapped Sparky’s nose again, causing the chick to jump back and give a hiss. Talya stood and shook her body as if ridding herself of water before she walked over to Nick’s hand and nudged it with her snout. “Tah-lee...Tal...Taleea..seems to wants attention.” Jaal said, stumbling over the name awkwardly as he watched the chicks. Jaal was fascinated by the Rylkor. His family, being higher tier and has always been part of the Resistance, never had Rylkor. He’d read about them, certainly, as they were some of the few creatures put to use by Angara...but he’d never seen a Rylkor chick in person. Adult Rylkor protected their young viciously, and the farming lands was not a place he’d ever visited. He watched as Nick raised her hand and the chick dove under it, running her entire length against Nick’s palm before turning about and doing it again. Sparky squawked at PeeBee, puffing out his chest and head butting her in the stomach. PeeBee giggled and began stroking the chick’s spine with glee. Viveka turned to him, a smile on her face that warmed his heart. “Let’s give them time to bond.” He nodded, taking one last look at the Rylkor chicks before taking her hand and being led away from the Tech Lab and to the mess hall. There, she let go of his hand to put on a kettle of hot water for tea, her smile fading as she tapped the counter. “I’m thinking about doing something that’ll make Nick mad at me...but it’ll be for her own good.” She said suddenly, turning to face him. “Do you think...after the mission...Evfra will agree to an alliance?” “Taoshay, I can not...assume to know Evfra’s thoughts, but I believe so.” Jaal said, leaning down to kiss her forehead. “It warms my heart to see you trying to take care of your family. What do you have in mind?” She leaned forward and pressed her forehead to his chest. “I want to get Nick a position on Aya...and continue her therapy there.” Jaal hummed in understanding, wrapping an arm around her. His other hand moved to grab the tea leaves from the cabinets above. “I will explain to Evfra the need, and talk to Paraan Shie about getting her a place to live there. It could be possible to have her there as an ambassador.” “No, she’s too impatient for that...maybe an aid. She always gets stuff done, it’d be better for her to run around and do things...No that won’t do either. A legal adviser for the Angara maybe? Kind of? Or...oh! A formal liason for military trade? Maybe we can have her work out a cooperative training program?” Jaal thought about it for a moment and nodded. “Evfra would not turn down a means to strengthen the Resistance, or an opportunity to get information on the Initiative aliens...Not that I think he would attack, he is, however, cautious. It would be an area we know your sister is keen to be in—and in that position she could request for aid should we need it on the field.” “Plus with SAM she can keep track of where I am and if I’m injured...With the Kett being such a problem we could have her introduce in her own N7 training, possibly help Evfra build up specific special operative teams for higher risk missions.” “He has those at his disposal, but your alien tactics may provide a good leverage against the Kett.” “And after we’ve earned more of his trust then we can ask for someone to come in and train with our APEX teams, maybe.” Viveka said, running her hands over the front of his cowl. “You know what? Your skin feels like an Earth animal—an aquatic one. Manta rays have velvety skin like you do…It’s amazing how your skin is so soft while your muscles are so hard beneath it all.”Jaal chuckled, his hand running up her back under her shirt. “And you are soft all over...” He purred at her just before his hand traveled down and cupped her ass. “I wish to explore it all...thoroughly.” Viveka blushed and smiled. “I want to explore you, too...” She said as his lips pressed to hers softly. “All in due time, dear one. As tempting as you are, I wish to make our first time memorable.” He said, his breath ghosting over her pouting lips. “Tease.” She said, pressing her fingers gently into his cowl. He growled playfully at her. “Now who is doing the teasing, Viveka.” “You. Always you. With that voice and...all of this.” She said, running her fingers down his chest and abs. “Skkut the things you do to me...” He said, just as the kettle whistled and got their attention. She giggled as he gave her ass a squeeze before releasing her to grab their cups. She carefully poured their tea. Drack entered the room and gave a snort. “Kid, go make out with your boyfriend elsewhere, I gotta start dinner.” Viveka grinned, taking the kettle past the old Krogan and winking at him. “Afraid to watch the kids kissing?” She asks and Drack snorted. “Just don’t want your boyfriend’s damn stink in the room I have to sleep in, kid.” Drack said dismissively as he walked into the kitchen. “And you, lover boy, no sex on the counters.” Viveka blushed in the doorway, frowning at the Krogan.Jaal let out an amused chuckle as he walked around Drack with their tea. “I can not promise that with the way she teases.” Drack laughed as Viveka squeaked, blushing a deep red. “Jaal!” “I can not lie to Drack, dearest.” Jaal said, walking up to her. She rolled her eyes and walked into their quarters, trying to ignore Drack’s laughter as he followed.
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Aya was beautiful. Nikita Ryder could even admit that. It seemed like a paradise, but it was too much so for her tastes. Sunshine and rainbow places always ended up in chaos one way or another. Eventually, something would hit Aya. Something would take away that peace. Her eyes turned to Viveka and Jaal who were walking next to each other, herself and the crew a few steps behind. They were so caught up in their little bubble...so unaware of the realities of what could happen.She clenched her jaw. She couldn’t let anything happen to her sister, not now or ever. She was all she had left. Her hoverchair glided easily over the smooth, white surface of Aya’s streets. It reminded her of a not so sterile Nexus in a way. Her eyes turned to the view, and she sighed. No. That wasn’t right. This reminded her of some colony long since gone. A colony that was destroyed. A colony that had been attacked, leaving only her sister and a handful of civilians to survive. Shaking her head, she refused to think about it. They left the Milky Way for a reason. She maneuvered her chair over the steps of the Resistance Head Quarters, half listening to her sister prattle on to Jaal about how beautiful Aya was. Then, her chatter abruptly ended. Nick steered her chair so she could be beside her sister, and she stood. Viveka and Nikita took identical military posture, hands clasped behind their backs, shoulders back, chin high, feet shoulder width apart. She was glad she was wearing her light armor, it would have felt awkward to be in civies like her sister. ------- Viveka nodded to Evfra with a smile on her face. “Evfra.” “Pathfinder.” Evfra said, looking up from his datapad and turning his eyes to the crew. “I see you’ve brought your entire crew with you.” He sounded annoyed. Again. “It is best for the entire crew to be here, so we can work together and figure out who is best suited for this mission.” Viveka said, and Nick snorted. “You’re going to take Jaal and Drack, they’re the most efficient Kett killers. You want to figure out who’s on my team.” Nikita said, dropping the soldier stance and placing a hand on her hip, jutting it out to the side. “Commander Evfra de Tershaav, I assume you know that my sister works best with Jaal due to their unique circumstances.”
The freaky emotion shit that goes thru their bioelectrics and biotics.
Viveka gave a small chuckle just before Evfra began talking. “I am well aware Jaal is in bed with The Pathfinder. Unfortunately.” Evfra said grumpily, though his words didn’t hold their usual bite. “I need to know of your injuries, human.” “I can fight, I can run, and if something happens where I can’t do either I’ll fuckin’ die killing these assholes. Same as always.” Nick said and Evfra raised a brow. Viveka covered her mouth, amused. “Asshole is basically vehshaanan in your language.” Viveka said, Jaal chuckling next to her. “Nick’s injuries won’t effect the mission, but will likely harm her after the mission due to physical stress.” Evfra’s eyes drifted up and down Nick, as if looking for any obvious injury. His pupils narrowed into slits and he paused at her legs. Her upper thighs were strangely shaped, and her calves were awkwardly mismatched. His eyes met hers in a clash of ice and ocean blues. Her lip curled in a sneer and his own raised to bare his teeth. “Your legs are wounded.” He snapped at her, and Nick lifted her chin. “It will not effect my mission.” She said, sure of herself. He let out a low growl. Jaal let out a chuffing sound in response, his mouth open, the canines that were usually hidden away exposed. Evfra turned to Jaal with a deeper growl, and Jaal let out his own. Viveka sighed as both male’s bioelectricity clashed and she rolled her eyes. “Okay, if you two are quite done, we have a mission to discuss. And, yes, Evfra, she can fight like this. She’s been in battles with broken limbs—this will slow her down only after the mission is complete.” Viveka turned angry eyes at Jaal who smiled sheepishly. "Even if I don't want to admit it." She grumbled, running a hand through her hair. “I will explain later, darling one.” Jaal said quietly and she turned her eyes to Evfra, who gave a soft annoyed sniff. “I hope I’ll get a good explanation for...whatever that was. Male posturing better not be the answer.” Viveka said, turning her eyes back to Jaal at the last bit. “Because we have a mission to be working on.” Nick raised an eyebrow at the authority in Viveka’s voice. “Well, fuck me sideways, you do have it in you.” Evfra blinked at the woman, and a few Angara soldiers in the room turned to look at her, blue flushing their cowls. Did she really just...demand sex? Viveka cleared her throat. “Human thing. She meant she’s surprised.” “What exactly does surprise have to do with sex?” Evfra asked, and all the aliens seemed to chuckle. Even the non-humans. “We have a lot of sayings that seem to sound like sexual propositions. Fuck is a general curse word for us, for example. Telling someone to fuck off, for example, means stop or go away. In this instance Nick’s sense of surprise is as if suddenly having sex in an awkward position right off the bat..I mean right away, I guess could be the right way of putting it. We have lots of sexual sounding ways of speaking, and usually it isn’t sexual really.” Viveka said, causing Jaal to roll his eyes. “It causes many misunderstandings. And awkward situations.” Jaal said, crossing his arms. “I wish you had explained this before I first spoke to Liam.” Liam laughed. “Hey, I was talking to myself when I said fuck me! You just happened to be there!” “And I still am not interested, Liam.” Jaal said, huffing. “Woah, wait, you thought Liam wanted you to fuck him?” PeeBee asked, and both Ryder twins facepalmed. “We need to talk about the mission, not human speech.” Nick said and Viveka nodded. “Yeaahhhh, but you do say fuck a lot. You don’t want to have the same issue that Liam and Jaal had crop up again.” Viveka said with an amused smile. She turned to Evfra once more. “Back to the matter at hand...” Evfra began detailing the mission parameters, bringing up a map of Veold by sending his bioelectricity through a device on his desk. They would be splitting into two teams: one for distraction and pulling out any captives on the way, the other who’s primary goal was to find and extract the Moshae. Evfra himself would be leading a third team, as he would be coordinating the shuttles to extract those who had been freed and both teams immediately after the mission. They had very little information about the lay out of the building, none of the teams sent in had ever come back. However, they did know a few outer rooms from scans from just outside the shields. Even many of those teams had been taken or killed. Jaal had been on one of the teams that had returned. He pointed out where he’d seen shield generators, and a potential control panel system. It was his scans that had found the Moshae’s presence in the facility. He lost not a single Angara on that mission. It bolstered his status in the resistance, but not enough to warrant a permanent team of his own, since he had not been initially in charge and had taken over due to his technological experience. Evfra looked over at Viveka with narrowed eyes. “You will be leading a team to extract the Moshae. Do not disappoint me, Pathfinder.” “She wont.” Nikita said, crossing her arms and lifting her chin. “I’ll be there, there’s no way we won’t get results with both of us there.” Viveka smiled. “I want my sister on the distraction and infiltration team. She can make...amazing distractions.” “I blow shit up from a distance and watch the confusion. Usually, I blow a lot of shit up and kill everyone.” Nick said, shrugging. “I like things that go boom.” “We have fireworks on the tempest, don’t we Vetra?” Viveka asked and Vetra nodded. “I have a large shipment of fireworks, actually.” Vetra’s mandibles spread wide, knowing where this was going. “Plenty for a good show.”“This is going to be fucking awesome.” Nick said, placing a hand on her hip. “Who ever is on the shuttles to pick us up, they need to take pictures and vids. I fucking want to add it to my collection.” Evfra raised a brow at that, and Viveka smiled. “Fireworks are basically miniature bombs that explode in color. Usually, we launch them into the air for celebration. Now...Now we’re going to confuse the Kett with them.” Jaal gave a soft chuckle. “And you collect trophies from your...explosions?” Jaal asked Nick who shrugged. “Only the really fucking good ones. They’re like men. If they’re worth my time, I’ll take shit home to remember them by. Not that many have made the list, most of them are just dicks only useful for sex.” Nick said bluntly, causing Viveka to facepalm. “Can we not discuss your sex life?” Viveka asked and Nick shrugged. “Lack there of right now, Viv. I’m not going to fuck your crew, and I’m sure as hell not finding any good partners at the moment.” Nick said, and Evfra gave an annoyed sniff. “You will be on the distraction team, however, rescuing Angara come first.” Evfra said, crossing his arms and ignoring the alien prattle. “Jaal and Drack will come with me, of course, but I will also take Liam. Liam was in a crisis response team, if the Moshae is injured we will need that medical experience. PeeBee, Vetra, and Cora are with Nick.” Viveka turned around, looking at the three women. “Cora, you are on shields duty with Nick. Do not let her or yourself become exhausted on the field. Rotate ration bar breaks on the move. PeeBee, you are to extract data quickly on the move, use SAM and both of you get as much information as possible on whatever this exaltation thing is. We still don’t know what the hell the Kett are up to. Vetra, take out any Kett guards silently. Nick will take care of most of them, but you need to take out the ones that are too far.” “Viv, I can get any that--” Nick started but Viveka gave a snort. “You aren’t using double charge and a slip stream to get to far away enemies, Nick, don’t drain your biotics. We don’t know how long it’ll take to find the Moshae.” Viveka said, and Nick nodded with a frown. “As we go, I’ll have SAM scan for structural weak points, and I’ll bring down the house.” Nick said, lifting her chin. “Destroy the wasp nest.” “Don’t be reckless about it, if you can’t do it on the go and get out, don’t do it.” Viveka said to her sister before turning back to Evfra. “When do we leave for Veold?” “Immediately. I will be headed there after this meeting is over.” Evfra said and Viveka scratched her head. “Why don’t you come with us aboard the Tempest?” Viveka asked and Jaal nodded. “Less resources used. The communications room would allow for Evfra to keep in constant contact with the Resistance, as well as the ground teams, should he wish to stay aboard during the mission.” Jaal said, turning to Evfra. “Evfra, this is a good plan. I can secure all your normal channels from the Tempest.”
SAM(Jaal Biotool): I have already encrypted all incoming and out going calls due to several attempts at hacking into our systems. The Angara prove themselves as an annoyance to combat in cyber warfare.
Viveka and Nikita both looked at Evfra, who narrowed his eyes and both he and Jaal looked over to an Angara who nervously looked over his shoulder. “I do not trust them...” The Angara said and Nikita gave a snort. “And this is suppose to help us fucking trust you? Hey, SAM, how long would it take to hack and extract important files from the Angara?” Nick asked, loudly.
SAM(Nikita Omnitool): 6.5231 seconds, Nikita Ryder. 9.294 seconds if you wish for in-depth information. 10.427 seconds for all encrypted files. 12.652192 for complete black out of their systems.
“And we have never used this on the Angara, why?” Nick said, again, loudly.
SAM(Nikita Omnitool): Angara designated in my systems as allies and friends. I am programmed to respect their societial boundaries to the best of my knowledge. I have blocked myself from tuning into any of their technology unless specifically asked, though I am allowed to monitor news. My primary goal is the Pathfinder’s goal: Peace. The Roekaar do not fall under these conditions, however, as they have attacked us multiple times. I have been monitoring several in the area.
Evfra bristled. “Roekaar, on Aya?”
SAM(Jaal Biotool): Mr. Ama Darav, please look around. One is in this room.
Suddenly, an Angara to Jaal’s left began to run, but Nikita lifted a hand and placed him in a stasis field.
SAM(Jaal Biotool): This Angara has been attempting to send video of our meeting to one Akksul de Mishtaariv. I have been blocking his attempts. You may find the evidence on his terminal.
Evfra walked over to the terminal, Jaal right behind him. It took seconds for them both to glare at the Green Angara. “Tove, Roekaar.” Evfra growled, walking over to the Angara held in stasis. His muscles jumped momentarily as he came close to the biotic field, and he glanced over at Nick only for a second. “He wishes to speak with the captive, sister.” Jaal said, a growl underlying his voice. Nikita lifted another hand, creating barrier bubbles around the Angara’s arms and legs before dropping the stasis. As the Angara struggled to get free, Nick forced his arms behind his back and his legs together. “Vesagara cannot be trusted! They will try to take Aya!” The green male yelled, causing Viveka to snort. “We don’t take other people’s homes, you naive moron. Trying to sabotage your military leader’s plans is a stupid move.” Viveka said, and Evfra grabbed the man’s throat. “You have betrayed your Moshae, your people.” Evfra turned to Nick and Viveka. “Will your A.I. be able to track all the Roekaar in Aya?”
SAM(Jaal Biotool): I can not track them, however, I have intercepted multiple communications. If you would allow the pathfinder team to split up, I can lead them all to the Roekaar actively attempting communications.
Viveka nodded to Nick, bringing up her biotics and replacing Nick’s. Nick sat in her hoverchair and leaned back. SAM sent everyone, including Evfra, coordinates of the last known pings. There were far more than Evfra was comfortable with. “Jaal, mark one. Cora, mark two. PeeBee and Vetra, mark three. Drack and Liam, mark four. I’m heading to mark five.” Nick said, turning her hoverchair to face Evfra. “Where do you want them? Viv can stay here with this guy.” Evfra’s eyes bored into her own for a moment, as if looking for something. “I will accompany you, and we will bring the traitors here.” Viveka sighed. “Can you knock this guy out before going, Nick?” Nick snorted before disappearing from her seat and reappearing, floating behind of the Roekaar infiltrator. She smiled, leaning over and bringing her fingers before his face before snapping them. A small shockwave was felt all around, and the Roekaar slumped in Viveka’s biotic hold. Viveka frowned. “You didn’t kill him, right?” Nick smiled as she floated back to her hoverchair, passing both Evfra and Jaal. Evfra looked over to Jaal with a question in his eyes, but didn’t say anything. “He’ll be out for an hour, it was just a small warp to his temples, no big deal.” She licked her lips and smiled. “Permission to use deadly force, Pathfinder?” Viveka rolled her eyes. “No. Don’t go killing Roekaar on the streets. Unless Evfra gives you the okay. That goes for all of you, including you, Gramps.” “Hey, kid, I ain’t the one who’s asking to kill.” “No, but you’re just as battle crazy as her. Capture the enemies, bring them here.” Viveka said, crossing her arms. “And no one get hurt.” “Dearest, we have taken on much more than this.” “Can you fucking lay off the prince routine? It’s killing my good mood. I’m heading out to the first mark, remember to play it cool until you reach your marks. Don’t fucking scare them off.” Nick said, looking over at Evfra with a wink. “Come on, big blue, it’s show time.” Evfra grunted, following Nick out the door. Jaal walked over and kissed Viveka's cheek, smiling. "You and your sister prove yourselves more every day, Taoshay." He said before Viveka gave him a soft peck on the lips, uncaring of the soldiers staring around the room. "We're here to help, Jelly Bean. Now, go on before the others beat you to their own marks. I expect you to be the first one back!" Viveka said playfully, winking at him. "You're the best after all." He chuckled. "You are mistaken, darling one, but we will continue this conversation later." He says before his face turns serious and he walks out the door, following casually after Liam and Drack. Soon, each member had casually left the Resistance Head Quarters, leaving the Pathfinder alone with the Resistance Soldiers. Viveka sighed, sitting on Evfra’s desk and moved the captive to a corner of the room and placing a barrier around him. “Well, boys, anything interesting you want to ask the weird alien about? You know, to avoid hacking into my ship's systems.” She asked the soldiers around the room, earning a couple nervous chuckles.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
As Nikita stepped outside with Evfra she glanced over at him. “I’m guessing Angara have an acute sense of smell.” She stated more than asked, and he grunted out an affirmative, crossing his arms. She smirked, opening the compartment of her hoverchair and pulling out a perfume bottle. Spraying it on her hands, she rubbed them together. “The hunt begins.” She said happily, standing from her chair. She wrapped her legs in biotics and began walking, a grin in place. He waited until she was twenty paces ahead before following, keeping track of her movements. She paused to speak to Roaan, leaning over the counter and giving the other Angara a flirtatious wink. Roaan laughed as Evfra sat near the opposite end of the bar, ordering his usual tube of nutrient paste so he could eat on the move. Out of the corner of his eye, he caught Nikita grab an alcoholic drink. He kept his face passive, keeping track of her as she drank down her tavum quickly. Standing, she wavered slightly. “Ah...wow th-that’s strong.” She said, giggling. Roaan raised his brows in surprise.“Are you alright, human? Do you need help?” Roaan asked and Nick waved him off. “I’m fiiiiine. Just g-gotta walk it off!” She said, humming as she wobbled past Evfra. Evfra turned in his seat to watch her, a scowl on his face. Tripping on her own feet, she nearly fell on an Angara at one of the tables, grabbing the male’s shoulders. “Oh...oh. Sorry, there, wow you’re a pretty shade of blue.” She sputtered out, earning a growl from the Angara.“Keep your filthy hands to yourself, alien.” The Angara said and she smiled prettily. “Too bad, you really are one of the prettier ones!” She said, standing and wobbling over to another table nearby and plopping down next to a green skinned Angara. “Y-You don’t mind if I catch my breath here, do you?” She asked, placing her hand on the Angara’s arm. “I—oh wow your shirt is blue, just like tha-that other guy.” She said with a giggle. This Angara stared at her in shock. “You are skutting drunk!” The green female exclaimed with a disgusted expression. Evfra raised a brow, watching the human go from one Angara to another. “Yeaaaaaaah. I liked that-that drink. Ohhh looky over there!” She said, standing and wobbling back to the first table, placing a hand on a deep purple Angara's shoulder. “Hi again mis-mister blue.” She said over at the blue Angara before looking down at the purple one. “I-I think you are the prettiest one here, mister purple.” She said, wandering back over to her hoverchair and collapsing into it just as Liam and Drack walked past. “Maaan, so many pretty boys! Oh, heeeey Dracky boy. Gramps. Papa Krogan.” Nick said, waving at Drack, who snorted, looking at her hand. “You started the party without us?” He asked, crossing his arms. “Yeaaaah it just smelled so good, you know? I paid for three, though. T-tell the guy. Dude. An-Angara guy. At the bar y-you guys can have my leftovers.”Drack rolled his eyes and turned to Liam. “Hear that, kid, you got a couple drinks waitin’ for ya. Go on.” “Hell yeah!” Liam said, walking over and sitting two seats down from Evfra. “Hey, I’m here to pick up two paid for drinks!” Nick looked up at Drack with a grin. “One or two.” Drack grunted. “Two.” “Heeey, bartender, get another two ready!” She shouted, moving her hover chair forward slowly. Drack walked over to the table with the two Angara.Nick left her chair and suddenly appeared by the green female Angara at her table, seated next to her as if she’d been there the whole time. Both the Angara and Evfra blinked their eyes in surprise. There were some Angara, who were in their top ranking officers, who’d learned to do such a thing with their bioelectrical field—but it was rare. To see an alien pull it off with relative ease...was unnerving. Nick used the woman’s shock to her advantage, draping her hands over the back of the woman’s cowl. “Hello, Roekaar.” She purred, almost seductively, before taking the back of the woman’s head and smashing her face into the table. The Angara hissed and turned to strike, but the little human shot out a blast of...something. It was bright, and it exploded in the Angara’s face, leaving the woman unconscious in it’s wake. Drack punched both Angara, before smashing their heads together at the other table. Both Angara slumped against each other, also completely unconscious. Nick walked over to Evfra with a smile. “Three down.” Evfra almost wanted to smirk at her strategy. It wasn’t one an Angara would have been able to pull off, with their bioelectrical field it made it hard to lie to others. Apparently, these aliens had no such trouble. “Xenophobic assholes.” Nick grumbled, paying Roann for another two drinks and sipping at one. Vetra appeared with PeeBee, who was pouting as she dropped an Angara off on the green-Angara table. “That one kissed really good, do we have to stick him in jail?” “Up to their esteemed leader.” Nick said with a snort. Jaal came through the resistance head quarters, walking past everyone and into the market place with a smile. “Ugh, there goes purple prince charming.” Nick ran her tongue over her lips, deciding she liked Tavum before she downed it completely. Evfra tore his eyes from her, watching Cora—the light colored human—drop two Angara off on the tables. “Looks like I’m late.” Cora said, and Nick shook her head. Nick tapped her com system.
Nick(Private Com): Yo, get ready for gifts.
Viv(Private Com): Rodger dodger. Tell everyone to stop drinking at the bar and get in here.
Nick(Private Com): Waiting on Prince Charming to finish up. He’s taking his sweet time, after being late to the party in the first place. Be fucking lovey on your own time, stupid. Next to her, Evfra hummed in agreement, though looked at her questioningly. Viv(Private Com): Well, start tossing the marks this way, meanie. Liam laughed at that, causing Nick to roll her eyes. “Shut the fuck up, Kosta. Go find some unlucky victim for your terrible jokes or something.” “Hey! My Jokes are hilarious! It’s not my fault you don’t have a sense of humor!”
N
ick(Private Com): Lemme get the package prepped and ready first.
Nick stood, annoyed, walking over to the pile of unconscious bodies and brushing her hands along faces and hands—any where skin showed. She even, at one point, grabbed the scented spray from her chair and sprayed her hands again for good measure. After she was done, she came back and sat down once more. Nick sighed and looked over to Cora. “Cora, you wanna deliver them to HQ?” Cora nodded, standing and lifting the knocked out Angara with her biotics, sending them all through the doors of HQ and dropping them. Jaal came back their way, dragging an Angara with a bloodied face. Evfra raised a brow at him and Jaal shrugged. “This ehnaad was spreading rumors about my darling one.” He looked down at the Angara’s swelling face. “I will not have him insult her in such a way.” Nick snorted in amusement. “And this is why I call you prince charming, big guy. Always protecting your little princess.” She said as she came over with her perfume, spraying the contents directly onto the Angara’s wounded face. “Viveka needs no protecting.” Jaal says, shrugging. “I do things that will bring my dear one joy.” “Aw, how cute.” PeeBee said with a smile. “I’m happy for you and blah blah blah, now let’s get back in there before someone notices we just took out a ton of Angara.” Evfra curled his lip and snarled. “Roekaar have no rights to be on Aya. They are not Angara any longer.” Jaal nodded, dragging the Angara behind him as he headed back to the Resistance Head Quarters. The rest followed suit, with Nikita finally dropping her biotic leg braces and sitting in her hover chair right before entering the building.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
After making sure all the Angara were marked with the distinctively alien scent all prisoners were placed down in holding cells to be dealt with after the mission. It was, admittedly, an ingenious thing that the younger Ryder twin had done. Though Evfra would not admit it out loud, it was an incredibly helpful way to track down any who escaped.Having set his second-in-command in charge, Evfra felt incredibly restless on the Tempest. And they hadn’t even taken off yet. The human pathfinder and Jaal had taken the time to show him around, and one crew member—Vetra, the Turian, had offered him her space as a room. However, that was unneeded. He stayed up in the communications room, overlooking the research and development console. He was even allowed access to their equipment, though it was only viewing access as he did not have the official rights to send out orders for others.This APEX team set was interesting, involving all their species to set out against the Kett with a few taps of the interface and no verbal commands. He would have to get his scientists to create something similar. Then there was the vital releases for their cryopods—apparently the Pathfinder could order for the Nexus to release specific teams. Most of what she had ordered were science and trade, only a few military releases to be seen. It was enlightening. Her intentions did seem to be that of research and discovery, rather than war. He had access to their bargaining system—and could even sell his own items for Initiative credits. He found this useful, as a small trade craft would be released and return to them at a faster rate than their ship could go. Apparently, the human engineer was working on that. The research and development terminal was view only, apparently equipped to specifically carry out the Pathfinder’s wishes. It was filled with upgraded armor and weapon technology, even some odd research options he couldn’t quite make heads or tails out of. After exploring the terminals, Evfra had headed back up to the communications room and sat down, restlessly going over data pads he’d already reviewed, double checked the communication systems to make sure he had all his communication lines open, and even opened up the mapping system in that room to see what information was available to the aliens. It was remarkable, really. During his restless checking and rechecking of the available terminals, he noticed Jaal and Viveka walking—hand in hand of course— toward the Tech Lab, where the other Ryder, Nick, was staying. With a Rylkor chick, of all things. And apparently there wasn’t just one aboard, but two. Two Rylkor hatchlings. And none of the crew seemed bothered by this. Even with one being an aggressive male. Aliens were strange. Very strange. The Pathfinder’s sister in particular was odd. Hovering around in that chair of hers, she was currently training the Rylkor female to do tasks he found...odd. Finding things by scent and sight, very specific things. Picking up things without damaging them. Inane things that she could do herself, yet she spent a great deal of time teaching the animal to do it, too. It was still young, much too young for bringing her half the objects she had gotten the chick to find, but it was...interesting. The Pathfinder had been excited about it, but Jaal was also confused by the events. Apparently, this was something he’d questioned multiple times and still couldn’t understand completely. Jaal remarked that humans were odd, and it had earned him a grin from his female. Along with a remark that he liked human oddities. He hadn’t disagreed, in fact, his lieutenant had leaned over and brushed his lips to the woman’s forehead with an affection he hadn’t seen from the boy in some time. Jaal wasn’t one to take in a bed mate easily. Not that he could say anything, he hadn’t taken a bed mate for...many years. Not since his family had been taken and killed in front of him. Not since he, Akksul, and Thaldyr had endured the torture of the Kett. He had been there the longest of the three. His hand drifted up to his shoulder, where it seemed to always ache with the phantom pain of being broken. He’d tried to protect the younger two Angara during their time in captivity, it had...been painful. Akksul and Thaldyr had disowned their own families, for not rescuing them. They’d been young, reckless, and full of hate and despair. He hadn’t seen the warning signs, not until too late. He frowned, shaking off the thoughts as he glanced back over to the trio in the Tech Lab. He wrinkled his nose in disgust as Jaal let out a suggestive purr at the alien, laughing as she flushed and hit him on his shoulder. Apparently, the other human had a similar reaction to himself, telling the two to leave if they were going to get ‘mushy’. They didn’t. They laughed and the Pathfinder continued talking about frivolous things before letting her sister know they were almost done with take off procedures. He stiffened when Jaal released the woman’s hand and turned to lock eyes with him, a knowing smile on his face. What was that smile for? Evfra narrowed his eyes at the younger Angara and growled in irritation as the purple skinned male made his way up the ramp. “What?” Evfra asked, his voice sharp. “We are going to leave Aya in a few minutes, Evfra. It will be okay. We will save the Moshae.” Jaal’s eyes turned towards the two human woman, who were soon joined by the light colored human. Cora, he remembered from reports. Evfra gave a snort. Jaal’s optimism was nice, but he was a realist. “If she is still alive.” Evfra said, gripping the rail as he looked down at the humans. Jaal nodded, his smile disappearing. “If she is not...” He sighed and crossed his arms, and for the first time Evfra noticed how much the young boy had grown. His shoulder width was wider than his own, and his arms thicker. Evfra looked away and down at the humans again. “If she is not alive, Evfra, we will destroy every last Kett to make sure. You have not seen her fight, Evfra. You do not know.” Evfra felt Jaal’s eyes on him, and he looked up to see the sure expression on his face. “Viveka is a miraculous being, Evfra. She does impossible things.” “You are a skutting fool.” “I am not blind to the things she has done….and will do.” Jaal said quietly, dropping his arms and smiling with unhindered affection as his eyes stared down at his Taoshay. “You can not see. You do not know.” Evfra gave a snort and looked back down to the women gathered below. Nick looked up at them, and for a moment their eyes met before her brows lowered, causing a crease to form. She looked confused, for a moment, before turning back to her conversation on the Krogan and the Medical Officer. He turned away and sat back down on the long cushioned bench. Jaal turned to give him another knowing smile. Evfra gave a sniff of annoyance and checked his data pads again.
What does Jaal know that I do not?
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Evfra stared at the datapad in his hand, going over the events the past 24 hours as he stared blankly as the orange screen. Everything was going as normal up until the Pathfinder and her team began talking in his office. People sent on assignments, people sending in reports, people dead. It had, actually, been a good day. More people alive than dead, in fact, by some dramatic numbers. They’d steadily been increasing since the Pathfinder’s visit to Veold. She’d given his people hope. It had been a long time since hope was renewed, a long time since he’d seen his people telling others not one more. She’d said something along the lines when she’d rescued his people from the Kett facility.
Not one more.
They’d believed in her, for some reason. This alien, a foreigner from the stars, had managed to turn every single one of their heads and make them believe. And now, with her sister, she has doubled in strength. Not simply from her own sheer will, but because he, who didn’t believe in her, didn’t trust her, had felt hope when her sister stared him down over the holographic communications system. Then, when he’d just started to think his day was going good, they’d found hidden Roekaar in Aya. Spying. One had been guarding the door to the skutting Daar Goss. A blow to his pride, for sure. He was not happy. Not happy at all. He’d meant it when he said Roekaar had no place on Aya. They turned their backs to the cause, sacrificing their own people in a battle that didn’t need to be fought.He had things in hand with the aliens. Jaal had things in hand. Jaal had the Initiative Aliens’ Pathfinder so thoroughly enthralled in him, he was certain that there would be an Alliance made. In fact, if the reports are accurate, the aliens would not be able to quite handle things without her. They had tried. Their cast-offs had taken Kadara, but it was little less than a rotting daar doomed to failure. They would take back Kadara as soon as it begins to fail. He almost shook his head to rid himself of the thoughts, but he still didn’t trust the aliens enough for them to know he was thinking of anything. He leaned forward, bracing his arms on his knees as he stared at the orange screen and began digging for details in his memory.
What did Jaal know?
Surely, this wasn’t about their clash in head quarters? He remembered pride bloom in his chest as Jaal rose up to stand between him and his newfound human family. Evfra almost wanted to chuckle at that, the boy had actually dared to let loose his bioelectricity to lash out towards him. No, that was not it. They both understood now that Jaal was an adult perfectly capable of keeping his little human family out of trouble. It was not likely the strange human idioms. Even within their own people there were several cultures on several planets, not everyone had the same way of speaking. There were family tongues specifically for speaking within family, some of these have evolved in such a way as well. The uncomfortable twinge he felt when the human—the pathfinder’s sister—used her biotics. First when she’d held the prisoner, more sharply when she caused a shockwave. It was...an odd feeling. He remembered he looked to Jaal, who had offered nothing...until now. Evfra stood, scowling. He would get answers. Jaal was still overlooking his little humans from up here. Perfect.“Jaal Ama Darav.” Evfra said, and Jaal turned to him with a smile. “Evfra.” “What do you know of what happened?” Evfra said, glancing at the humans below then back to Jaal. Jaal smiled at him widely, showing his teeth. “Evfra, if you wish to know what has happened, all you have to do is walk down to the humans and trace them with your bioelectrics.” Jaal said, amused. “Place ally tracers on them.” Evfra raised a brow. “I can do that from here.” Jaal chuckled. “Then watch the reaction.” Evfra narrowed his eyes at Jaal for a moment before extending out his bioelectrics, he watched as Cora didn’t flinch as he placed small markers on her back. Nothing. He then moved on to the Pathfinder, who, like Cora, hadn’t flinched. Then his bioelectrics hit Nick. She tensed, and her brows knit together in confusion before she looked up at him with anger in her eyes. “If you have questions, asshole, get down here and fucking ask.” Nick said, loudly, causing both Viveka and Cora to look at her surprised. Evfra blinked, looking over to Jaal who had a grin on his face as he winked down at his human. He looked back just in time to see the Pathfinder utter a small ‘oh’ and a grin appear on her face. “So good of you to volunteer, Nick!” Viveka Ryder said, hooking her arm into Cora’s and dragging the other woman off. “Jaal! We’re going to need you in the BioLab!” “Coming, darling one!” Jaal called out, looking over to Evfra and clapping his shoulder. “We will leave you to talk now, Evfra. I am happy for you.” Evfra gave him a baffled, confused look and Jaal quickly left. When he looked down at the human who had reacted to his bioelectricity it struck him.
Oh.
Skkut.
She began moving her hoverchair up the ramp and he swallowed the skutting lump in his throat. He sighed, crossing his arms over his chest and looked her over. No longer was she in the light armor, but a pair of shorts and a shirt with thin straps. He cocked his head as he wondered what the bumps on her chest were for, but that didn’t matter at the moment. His eyes lingered on the scars around her neck, small and almost invisible. Puncture wounds, separated exactly the same amount of space apart, rounded her neck. A large scar wrapped itself over her shoulder at the base of her neck, and that only began the scars. They littered her limbs, crossing over each other. Some looked like claw marks, others like bullet holes, the teeth of some creature had punctured her outer right thigh. He looked back up at her and she had a brow raised. “Yeah, I have a ton of fucking scars, was that what your question is?” Nick asked, leaning back in her hover chair and crossing her arms. The Rylkor chick climbed up, using her shirt then her...bumps?...as leverage to get up onto her shoulder. It sat in the crook of her neck, letting out a soft chirp before using it’s front claws to clean its face. “I have many questions, human. Your scars are of little curiosity, other than your neck. You have been shot, bit, stabbed, and perhaps collared it merely brings to question when and where you were held captive. I have come to the conclusion it is not a tale you wish to tell, no more than mine is.” Evfra said, walking over to the couch and sitting, grabbing a data pad. “I do question your sanity, going into this mission wounded.” “I was in a coma while my sister’s been out here. I’m not fucking letting her out there alone.” Nick said, moving her chair over to the couch and lifting herself out, plopping onto the couch a few feet away. The Rylkor hissed in annoyance as it dropped onto the couch beside her. “More reasons you should not be on the field. Your sister is a capable warrior, she will be fine.” Evfra said calmly, tapping at his data pad and pulling up a file. “You are mending properly?” “Uh, as in healing? I guess? I’m no Commander fucking Shepard but I don’t let things like this keep me from a good battle. I’m doing physical therapy, if that’s your question? Your species ask weird ass things.” Nick said with a sigh. “Turians mostly just ask about the hair.” “Hn. Jaal has already sent me many strange human oddity facts. The Pathfinder enthralled him and kept him from reporting properly for some time.” Evfra said, causing Nick to snort. “I knew he was stupid love-sick idiot.” “You said idiot twice. Only when his life takes a drastic turn is he so careless. He was not sent with your sister with out thought. He could kill everyone on this ship with little issue. He is one of our best. He is...emotional. Even for Angara, who, by your species standards, are much more open.” Evfra scrolled down the page of his data pad. “You are certain your biotics will keep you from death?” “Been hurt worse than this, and from the data I have from Viv’s encounters, I’ve faced similar enemies. Harder, in some cases.” She picked up the Rylkor and pet it gently under it’s chin. “However, they weren’t coming in this kind of force. We need to find the leaders, kill the leaders and you’ll be able to pick off the pockets of resistance.” “Yes. It is the strategy they used against us when the battle first began.” Evfra said, raising a brow at her. “So reports say. I don’t have the full story, but I get the basics.” Nick looked down at her arm and flexed her fingers, watching the tendon in her wrist. “They cut off the main source of the problem, and began the harvest. We can do the same to them, given a little time.” She frowned and dropped her hand. “Salarian STG would be extremely useful right now.” “What is that?” Evfra asked and she gave a soft snort. “This will take some explaining. Salarians, like our pilot, Kallo, are very short lived compared to humans, turians, and apparently Angara. We’re short lived compared to Krogan and Asari. Because of this, Salarians evolved with the ability think much faster, they make excellent scientists. However, they don’t generally make good fighters.” She turned her eyes to him. “That’s their first advantage. The Salarian Special Tactics Group, or STG, is a special task force; infiltration, and scientists. The greatest minds of their species are—were—part of this group. Trust me when I say an STG agent is probably one of the worst enemies you can have. Not that they went out to make enemies, their main agenda was intel, research, and tactics. It was just...to get information they wanted, it sometimes took a fight to get.” She paused and chuckled. “Not that the other races are lesser in their fighting. Turian society was very militaristic, right down to the civilians. Humans are more genetically diverse than any other race, and we recover from wounds that would generally kill anything else...well, except Krogan.” She looked over at Evfra who was, again, looking her over. “How do you survive the initial hits? You do not have any external defenses.” Evfra said and Nick grinned. “That’s what makes us scary—there’s been multiple humans that have taken guns to the face and survived.” At that, Evfra looked horrified. Nick laughed at his expression. “Fucking hell, the expressions never get old! I always tell that to other races! It’s fucking great every fucking time!” Evfra composed himself and scowled. “You tell others of this...unnatural survival of your species to laugh at them?” He asked and she nodded. “Oh, hell yeah! Well, example...” She pulled up her shirt, revealing her stomach and the scars that littered her there. “See this?” She pointed at a straight but deep scar on her stomach. He nodded and she turned around. “I have the matching one on the other side. Batarian stabbed me straight through with a sword of all things.” “Batarian?” Evfra asked and Nick snorted. “Yeah, they should have been on one of the other arks, the Quarians had a bigger ark than the ones that we came in, they housed a few of the species that were more rare. Batarian society is...was...run on slavery. They have a ton of eyes, even more nostrils, and their faces are wrinkly as fuck.” Nick said, and Evfra had to hide his amusement at her description. “Anyway, yeah, so this scar is actually newer than most the other ones, and this Batarian was coming at me due to my past encounters with them. I’d already taken down his team, blown up his ship, and I was pretty busted up from fighting three Krogan. Back up was on the way, but not fucking fast enough.”“Three Krogan?” Evfra asked and she nodded. “Yup, Krogan just have over active healing—you have to focus one down at a time. Of course, it doesn’t help when all three go into bloodlust and are charging with their wounds healing while you’re trying to fucking dodge them and bullets from the Batarians.” She gave a snort. “Anyway, it took some time, and after I got two down I was able to call for back up. When the third went down, back up was five minutes away. I had the one batarian left, and, even though my biotic implant was overheated so I couldn’t get him with that, I still had a shot gun. He stabbed me, I shot him point blank in the chest.” She said, with a proud grin. “Hn. You enjoy battle.” He said with a smirk. “I enjoy explosions. Even made by Batarian guts.” She said with a chuckle. “Viveka secretly enjoys a good fight, though she won’t admit it.” She paused, raising a brow at him. “Weren’t we suppose to be answering your questions?” His eyes caught hers, and he raised a brow. “We have been.” “Oh. Well, fuck, you just wanna know random crap? Then come on, lets go to the Mess where I can get some fucking coffee. You can have some too, Angara safe and shit. Scan it if you want.” She stood then, frowning at her hover chair. “We’ll have to take the fucking god-damned long way around. I can’t fucking climb the fucking ladder.” Her annoyance was...amusing. Evfra nodded in reply, standing as she sat in her hover chair. She is not...terribly repulsive. He thought as they walked. ------ “Did they seriously just talk about blood n guts stuff?” Viveka whispered, pressing her ear to the locked BioLab door. “I can barely hear them.” Jaal chuckled while Cora rolled her eyes. “Are you serious, right now though? This Ushior is some kind of soul-mate finder?” Cora asked and Jaal shook his head. “No, it finds compatibility on several levels, you can find more than one partner with Ushior, though finding even one is rare. It is said it is...something like soul mates among our people. Love that follows through reincarnations. However, because reincarnation is continuous, you can have multiple souls that have loved you so.” Jaal said and Viveka gave a soft snort. “It better be as rare as you said, I won’t be happy if someone else pops up. Why isn’t he mentioning it to her?” Viveka said and Jaal thought about it. “I do not think that would be a problem, I am more than happy with your affections, I would not want you to share your affections with another, and I do not want to share mine with another. Also, it is too soon to mention, it is...odd and invasive to your kind. Establishing the connection is the first step, he can not do that if she hides from him.” Jaal said and Cora gave him a soft slap on his shoulder. “Well said, Jaal. Monogamous is good for Viv.” Cora said and Viveka suddenly shushed them. “Guys—they’re moving to the mess!” Cora sighed. “Are we seriously sneaking around and eavesdropping?” Cora asked and Viveka looked at her, nodding. “Unless you want me to ask about how things went with Kan--” “Point made, Jaal can go make tea for us, and we can go into your room.” Cora said and Viveka grinned. “Then SAM can relay what they’re sa--”
SAM(Viveka omnitool): I can not relay private conversations.
“It’s not private when they are in a non-enclosed area.” Viveka protested, crossing her arms.
SAM(Viveka omnitool): You are being hypocritical. You do not wish for me to release you and Jaal’s conversations alone in the m--
“Pathfinder privileges!” Viveka said and Cora gave a soft chuckle next to her. Jaal tapped his chin and grinned. “Sam, my dear one and I talk about private topics—such as those pertaining our relationship—Evfra and Nick are not, correct?”
SAM(Jaal omnitool): Affirmative, Mr. Ama Darav.
“That is what makes their conversation not private.” Jaal said, winking at Viv’s happy expression.
SAM(Jaal Omnitool): I will change my privacy settings. Thank you Mr. Ama Darav.
“Let me guess—this has helped you grow.” Viveka asked.
SAM(Viveka omnitool): That is correct. I appreciate this.
Jaal smiled happily before Viveka grabbed his arm, leading him out of the Bio Lab with Cora not far behind.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Jaal entered the mess nodding to Evfra and Nick before grabbing a tray and three cups to make tea. Pausing, he wondered briefly if Cora liked her tea the same as Viveka did. Deciding it didn’t matter too much, as he could bring some milk and honey with him should she need it, he gathered the items on a tray. Perhaps he should leave the customizing of Viveka’s tea to her, as well, but he found he liked knowing how she liked her tea at different times. If it had been a hard day, Viveka had three spoons of honey in her tea, and just a little milk. If her day had been fine it was two spoons of honey and a lot of milk. If she was tired she had two spoons of honey with no milk, it seemed to wake her up. If she was upset with him in some form, which was thankfully not often, she took her tea without either. As if she didn’t want him making tea special for her, taking away that privilege from him. It wasn’t as though he thought she actually meant it that way, she was too kind and never stayed mad very long, but he sometimes felt that way. The kettle still heating on the stove, he moved to put the honey in Viveka’s cup. He paused, looking back at Evfra and Nick, who’d been talking about various things, but Evfra had asked a particularly interesting question: why did the aliens come to this cluster? Nick had paused, having a cup of coffee halfway lifted to her lips. She narrowed her eyes down at the contents and then looked to Evfra as she put it down. Her fingers soon looped together and she placed her chin on her fingers. “Tell me, Evfra, do you think us aliens are so different than your species?” She asked, and Evfra cocked a brow at the question. His question had remained unanswered. “I’m getting to the fucking point, answer.” “Yes...and no.” Evfra’s mouth was drawn in a frown in thought and he crossed his arms, leaning back as her Rylkor ate paste from a bowl on the table greedily. “At first, yes. I have little experience with aliens who are not an enemy.” “The little known truth is we’re the contingency plan. The fucking breeders for our respective species, because no one was sure if our damn galaxy was going to be saved.” She looked down at her cup. “If you want honesty, you’re going to fucking get it. We were under attack—it was worse than your Kett. I saw one...those Reaper things. I was on the Citadel when that fucking thing hit us. It was bigger than any starship I’d ever seen.” She paused then, placing her hands on the table. “I don’t know the exact details, but I know what I fucking saw. It brought in a hoard of the fucking Geth—and then these fucking..." She paused, taking a breath and lowering her voice. She was getting angry. "We called them husks. They were us...our people turned against us...but they didn’t choose. They were fucking transformed into...fuck. Viveka saw a human get turned. They weren’t human anymore. They would run around...slaughtering everything.” Her fists clenched, and her eyes closed. “We fought for hours before Commander Shepard came and destroyed the Reaper. Warned everyone she could about them coming—a whole army of the damn Machines. Who could turn us on our own, infiltrate our special forces. Just one...Just one destroyed colony after colony and made it look like accidents.” “We were sent here, because the council didn’t know if we were going to fucking live or die. I’m here to carry Viv’s kids—it was the only way to get Viv on board. I wanted to fucking stay and fucking fight, but Viv...Viv needed out. Viv shouldn’t be in this fucking position she’s fucking in. She’s seen too fucking much already.” Nick clenched her fists. I've seen to much already.“You want to know why we’re here? Because everyone else is probably fucking dead.” Jaal and Evfra both looked at her in shock and horror. “Machines?” Evfra asked and Nick’s eyes turned dark. “Machines who could think. More than just AI. The one that attacked the Citadel was...” She cracked her knuckles. “It doesn’t fucking matter anymore. Unless they fucking listened to Commander Shepard—which they weren’t when we left...They’re fucking dead. Those things won’t follow us here—they harvested from the Milky Way only, they said. And if they did follow us, they’d have been here by now.” She stood abruptly, picking up Talya, who let out a chirp. “I need some fucking time alone.” -----Cora blinked, next to Viveka. “We were...a contingency plan?” Cora whispers and Viveka closed her eyes. “It was need to know information only. We only found out...because dad needed to get me on board. Because I can’t have kids...Nick needed to come…it......it was a mess. She wanted to stay. She wanted to help prepare and fight...I couldn’t. Not after...” Viveka trailed off, shuddering at the memories. “I couldn’t fight something worse than Geth.” “But the Council said...” “The Council...well, they just...were hoping for the best I think.” Viveka said, and both women left the room and entered the kitchen. Viveka brought her shoulders back and raised her chin. “What you have heard doesn’t leave this ship. We are trusting you with information that 99% of our people are unaware of. Jelly Bean, can you make the tea extra sweet? Today just went downhill fast.” “Of course, darling. Cora, are you staying?” “No, I...have to think. Sorry.” “It is no problem, I will bring tea to you before I retire with my dearest.” “Thanks...” Cora said with a weak voice. Viveka looked over at Evfra. “Sorry. Nick and I came…for a fresh start. Instead we find ourselves in another war. It’s...hard. On all of us.” Viveka said, lifting her chin a bit more. “We all need a little time to relax and start thinking straight, I think. I’ll be in the Pathfinder’s Quarters if you need me.” She turned on her heel and left, a tenseness to her that made Jaal sad. Jaal poured the hot water into cups, and began steeping tea. “They are not so different, Evfra. My dear one has nightmares. Memories she can not and will not talk about.” He says quietly, watching the liquids change color. “I do not know what happened to her sister, but I do know it was worse than Viveka’s experience.” His eyes turned to Evfra. “They are strong, these two. They will bring the Moshae back, and you will not doubt her worth. She is the other half of my dearest. They have scars, inside and out, and burdens equal to your own.” He paused, looking back at the tea. “Yours has been...bruised, but she is not broken, Evfra.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Evfra leaned back in his seat, eyeing the tea that the human--Nick--had made for him. They'd used dried plant life for the tea, steeping the plants in the heated water until the water had changed in color. It was odd, how these aliens took extra steps for meals and drinks. Jaal had sent reports about it before, but it was different seeing such a thing in person. Looking over, he saw the human's coffee still sitting on the table. He sighed, picking it up and walking out of the kitchen without a word. He paused in the doorway, realizing her hoverchair was outside the kitchen still. She had walked back. He knew she hadn't gone up the ladder, he'd have seen her do so from his position in the room, so she had walked the longer route. Giving a small huff of annoyance, the Resistance leader placed her coffee in the cup holder and grabbed his tea. Taking the back of the chair in his other hand, he pushed it forward. It took some time, making sure drinks would not spill, but he found his way to the Tech Lab. He raised his hand to open the door, but paused. She said she wanted to be alone. His lips pressed together in a thin line. He'd brought these things of hers like a skutting youngling, she was going to take them whether she wanted to or not. As he raised his hand again, a muffled sound from inside stopped him short. Was that...an instrument?
Nothin' I say comes out right
I can't love without a fight
No one ever knows my name
When I pray for sun it rains
Was the human...singing? He stood there, blinking in surprise.
I'm so sick of wasting time
But nothin's movin' in my mind
Inspiration can't be found
I get up and fall but...
He found himself holding his breath, listening to the words as they translated into Shelesh via his translation implant. The words were...harsh to one's self. Why was she singing such things? He didn't have much time to ponder when her voice rose up. ---- She sat on bed, her fingers on the electronic strings of the multi-use asari-made guitar. It was made of thin, hard metal and had a small eezo core, balanced in the center of the instrument. It's glow wavered every time her fingers moved across the strings, which was all around relaxing. Sure, she could have gone for the human-invented keyboard that had more instruments, but there was nothing quite like the feel of a guitar in her hands. As she came to the chorus, she found herself up on the bed, bent over her instrument, playing it louder.
I'm Alive! I'm Alive!
Oh yeah
Between the good and bad is where you'll find me,
Reaching for Heaven!
She thought nothing of it when she heard her door open. It just meant she had an audience.
I will fight!
And I'll sleep when I die!
I live, my life, I'm Alive!
She rocked a bit, tapping her foot on the floor, looking up to see Evfra placing her chair to the side, her coffee in the holder. He looked up at her with a brow quirked, but was silent as she continued the song.
Every lover breaks my heart
And I know it from the start
But I end up in a mess
Every time I second guess
She watched with amusement as Evfra gave a soft snort at the lyrics, taking a sip of his tea as he leaned back against the doorframe.
All my friends just run away
When I'm havin' a bad day
I would rather stay in bed
But I know there's a reason
I'm Alive! I'm Alive!
Oh, yeah
Between the good and bad's where you'll find me,
Reaching for Heaven!
I will fight!
And I'll sleep when I die!
I live, my life, I'm Alive!
Despite the fun she had been having, she brought her hands down from the guitar. She raised a brow at Evfra as she stepped down from her bed and grabbed her coffee cup. "Thanks for bringing me my coffee, big blue." She said, sitting in her hoverchair as her rylkor chick gave a rumble from it's pillow beside her bed. Talya gave a soft squawk, but simply turned her head and nuzzled into the soft fabric. "I had not expected you to be...musically inclined." He said, trying to find the right words. She snorted. "Yeah, well, everyone has their thing." She said before moving the hover chair over to the side of her bed, at the work bench. She lifted the guitar off her and placed it there, underneath the workbench tucked into a case in the corner. "Not that it fuckin' matters much. Just good stress relief in the long run." "Why did you not become a singer?" Evfra asked and Nick looked over at him. "When your first job ends up with you being captured, tortured, and sold, you don't particularly want to go back." Nick said bluntly, rolling her eyes. "I found the life of a soldier suited me just fine." Evfra hummed at that, taking another sip of his drink. That he understood. When his family was taken from him his life changed directions and he founded the Resistance. It was not where he had wanted his life to go, but it suited who he was now. To become a slave and survive...well, he and Akksul knew that horror well. "Besides, after that incident I don't have the looks for a fucking singer anyway." She said, giving a snort. "Assholes would want me to cover up my scars. Fuckin' bullshit sexist bastards. I can fuckin' sing just fuckin' fine, it's not like they fucking sliced my god damned throat open." She rose from her chair and moved to her bed. She rubbed her throat all the same, feeling the puncture scars there. From her collar. "What are you still fuckin' doing in here anyway? I'm not the most pleasant fuckin' person to be around right now." "Observation." Evfra said, his silver-blue eyes locking onto her. She refused to shift under his sharp gaze. For some reason she felt...off. "I am neither caring nor gentle in nature, you are better company than the other aliens." "You're an antisocial asshole with controlling tendencies, so you choose the company of the social asshole with a rebellious streak? So you're also a masochist, good to know." She said, straightening her tools on the work bench and reaching for her carnifex pistol. "At least you're not fuckin' hugging me every time I fuckin' see you like Prince Charming does." "Prince- ah. Jaal, you mean. Jaal is...emotional, even for Angara." Evfra said, frowning. "If he wasn't so good at what he does I may have shot him many years ago for his overly affectionate nature." Evfra wouldn't have and he knew it. Really, most Angara were physically affectionate...but he wasn't. Not anymore. Nick laughed at that, cleaning her gun slowly. "I told Viv I wouldn't kill him for the hugging. She warned me. I probably would have gutted him for touching me otherwise." "You do not care for physical contact?" Evfra asked and Nick shrugged. "It's not that. I fuckin' choose who touches me." She gave a snort of amusement. "I like a good fuck, but I'm not a cuddly person." She lifted her gun and turned it side to side before going back to cleaning it. "Hugging and kissing? Fuck that. I'd rather just have my fun and get the fuck out." She said that, but the way her shoulders pulled back stubbornly and the way she glared at her gun said otherwise. She said that because she wanted it to be her truth, not because it was. "Interesting. You do not form emotional attachments? Is that normal among your kind?" "You're a nosey prick, you know that? No, not all humans are like me. Then again, not all humans got sold as a sex slave." She said, causing his eyes to widen. Her's did as well, as if she'd never meant to mention that. "If you're fuckin' done with my personal history, let's delve into yours, asshole. Where'd you get the facial scars?" She saw him narrow his eyes and she gave a snort. "You asked about my personal shit, don't you look at me like I've overstepped." Evfra sneered at her, knowing she was right. "Kett slave camp. I got these escaping. Rylkor gave me the facial ones, not Kett." "You got enslaved, too? Fuckin' fantastic. The one time I meet someone who fuckin' gets it and it's after the potential collapse of my entire galaxy. Anyone you had to leave behind, Big Blue?" She asked, pulling off her Omni-tool and going over the customized Omni-blade coding. "I got one hundred and thirty-three Angara out." He said, and she shook her head. "Not what I asked, buddy boy." She turned her eyes to him with an unimpressed look. "Don't evade the question like a fuckin' coward." Evfra growled low at her, his bioelectricity sparking slightly in warning. She felt a weird shift in her biotics, but quickly willed them back into submission. "Don't think I don't know what you're fuckin' doing, that's still evading the damned question." "...That is not your concern." "And still wanting a straight answer, asshole." "......Yes."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Evfra watched as the human put her Omnitool back on, closing her hand into a slightly open fist and pressing some...interface on her palm. When she brought her fingers back out, five bright orange blades hovered over the tips of her fingers like claws. She slowly closed her fist again, watching the blades disappear before they touched her skin. She smirked, pleased with the work she'd done. Looking around, she huffed in annoyance before going over to her locker in the corner of her room and pulling out a scarred and warped piece of metal. Tossing it up into the air, she slashed at it with her claw-blades. Streaks of red and orange scorched the surface before the metal cooled. "Interesting." Evfra commented, having not moved from his place against the doorway. "Still haven't really answered the fuckin' question, Blue Boy. You know some serious shit about my past, give me some fuckin' details." Nick snarled, though her words lacked true aggression. He sighed. He knew that this was going to be difficult, after all, she was a skutting alien. "My family did not survive the ordeal, human. I left many behind, but none were alive." Evfra said, and she gave a sigh. She looked at the claw-blades and flexed them, as if assessing something. "Yeah, well, you know the only two members left of my family." She said, her tone filled with some annoyance. "First the fuckin' Relay 314 Incident, then fuckin' eezo, then fuckin' Kett." She whirled on him then, switching off her blades before settling her hands on her hip. "Talya, come." She said, without looking away from Evfra. Talya immediately popped up, striding over and standing between the woman's feet. The little Rylkor chirred and looked up at her owner as if in question. "Talya, find me apple." Talya gave a quick squawk and turned to look at her expectantly. Nick pressed a few buttons on her omnitool and Evfra could smell something crisp and sweet. Immediately the Rylkor began searching the room, chirring in confusion before racing to the door, waiting for it to open. Nick didn't look over at the creature as the doors swished open and she left. After the doors swished close, she dropped down into her chair and Evfra quirked a brow. "She needs to learn without me watching over her every move." Nick said, crossing her legs and typing some things into her omnitool. "You are training the Rylkor to do mundane tasks?" Evfra asks and Nick smirked. "She'll be able to go get my entire shopping list by the time I'm done. And her fucking name is Talya, big guy." "You are aware you haven't used my name. Not once." "Sorry, not sorry, big blue. You're big and blue. It fits and I don't care if you like it or not. At least I'm not calling you Bluebell or Blueberry. Those cutesy nicknames are all Viv." "Indeed." Evfra said, raising a brow ridge at her. "What is a blue bell? I assume blue berry is a berry of some kind." ---- Drack snorted as Talya came running into the room. She looked up at him and chirred. "What do you want, pest?" He asked as the raptor like creature ran over to the fridge and back. He hesitated a moment before opening the fridge and watched as she ran inside. She bit down into an apple and walked out, dragging the bigger fruit. Drack watched with astonished eyes as she drug it all the way out of the kitchen. "What the hell?" ---- Nick grinned as Talya returned with the desired fruit in her mouth. She was dragging it, walking backwards until she saw Nick out of her peripherals and turned to drag it down by the woman's feet. Nick cooed at the little beast, running her fingers down the Rylkor's spine. "That's my good girl." She said with a soft tone that had Evfra quirking a brow again. She could form attachments just fine. She simply did not wish to with bed mates. That...was understandable, given her past. A sex slave. The thought of that was terrifying. He'd never thought of that kind of horror. Kett did not seem to need such things and his people were never so cruel.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Jaal entered the room with an uncomfortable nervousness. He watched as Viveka paced the floor, and he had to clear his throat to get her attention off her ever moving feet. It wasn't the first time she'd been upset around him, but he was hoping to distract her from the feelings. "I...ah...I made your tea." He said, shifting from foot to foot. Viveka turned to him and gave him a small, weak smile. "Thank you, Jelly Bean. Sorry, just...I don't like thinking about that stuff." She said as she took the tea from him and they settled on the edge of her bed. He curled an arm around her and pressed his lips to her forehead. "No need to apologize, my starlight. I am happy you are more open with your emotions with me." He said into her hair before taking a drink of his tea. He watched as she sipped at her own, snuggling into his side. "I'm still thinking you're probably some amazing hallucination." Viveka said, looking up at him. "You make perfect tea, you're sweet as candy, you like to work on things, you are the best partner I have on the field, and you even have the good looks to back everything up. How do you get so lucky in the everything department anyway?" Jaal's cowl flushed blue as he shifted uncomfortably. "I...may seem capable to you...but I am not. Not really." "You're kidding right? You're amazing!" Viveka said, turning her eyes to him in shock. He chuckled. "My family...the Ama Daravs...we are a...hrm...famous family in a way. Many of my cousins are great scholars or high ranking commanders, we even have some who are architects and historians!" Jaal said, swinging his cup out with familial pride. "We have younglings who show promise in battle already, or have been chosen to join the elders in talks to learn politics!" He paused then, bringing his cup back towards him and clasping his feet together in a tangled knot of worried fingers. "Then...there is me. I am...good, yes. I am a good warrior...one of the few that Evfra has close by. However, I...am not exceptional like the rest of my family." "Well, I think you're amazing. I know what it's like living in another's shadow..." She leaned into him. "But, in the end, our positions led us to meeting each other, right?" "Viveka, you are...You will always be my everything. If we had not met that day...I would have had to find you some day." He said, purring as he pressed his nose into her hair. "I adore you, Taoshay. You are intelligent, kind, beautiful beyond imagination. I can not think of a life without you in it." "I love you, too." She said, a flush gracing her cheeks as she placed her cup on the nightstand and stood to stand in front of him. Her hands gently cupped his jaw and she kissed him slow and sweet. Bioelectrics and Biotics sparked to life, clashing and mingling in a familiar lovers dance that came easily. His strong arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer as he began to dominate the kiss, groaning as the feel of her tongue against his made him want more. It wasn't long before she was straddling him, sitting high on her knees and forcing him to lean back, releasing her as he pressed a palm on the bed and kept his tea away from them carefully. Sitting up, he slid a hand under her rear and stood to put his tea away, taking her with him and never breaking their kiss. Her hands had moved from his jaw to the back of his cowl, and the pressure from her too-many fingers forced a moan from his throat. She chuckled against his lips and he growled at her. "Temptress." "Mmhmmm…Kiss me some more." She murmured as he pressed her down into the bed. "You are a tease." He said, lowering his head to lick and nibble down the side of her throat. It caused her to gasp, and he smirked. "You're the tease, I'm..." She arched her back as his hands found her breasts over her shirt. "...innocent...." "Darling, it is becoming increasingly hard not to taste you..." He growled out as he felt the spark of lust in her biotics. "Skkut." "Jelly Bean...if you don't stop we're going to end up..." She flushed red as his tongue dipped into her cleavage, a slow and bold lick. They'd been slowly getting further and further towards sex in their alone time, but both of them still had reservations due to their respective species' view on each other's race. He sighed, pulling off of her, running his thumbs over the hardened buds that lay hidden under her shirt. "I will go shower, Taoshay… You drink your tea and rest." He said, leaning down to press a kiss to her slightly swollen lips and pulling away to head into their bathroom. Viveka threw her arms over her eyes and internally cursed the thoughts that drifted into her mind of wanting to join him. That was definitely not the way to stay abstinent.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The next day cycle began with Jaal waking to a quick kiss on the nose. His eyes cracked open and he grabbed her, pulling her in close with a grunt. Jaal didn't like mornings. Or, at least, being woken up. He preferred to wake first and watch Viveka sleep in the quiet early morning hours...but, sometimes, she would be the first one awake. Viveka found incredible amusement in waking him early, just to peek at the grumbly side of him. It was cute, she'd said to him once. But, he simply wanted to pull her back down into bed and go back to sleep. Usually, she gracefully stayed out of reach and he would wake to the sound of the shower running. Today, though, she had damp hair and smelled of the cleaning products of her people. He cracked an eye open again to see her smiling up at him from her place tucked against his chest. "You're cute." She said and he murmured out a sleepy reply as she ran her hands on the underside of the pronounced cartilage on his chest. He squirmed, lightly chuckling and she giggled. He growled and grabbed her hands, flipping himself over her and pinning her hands above her head. She winked and he rolled his eyes. "Must you wake so skutting early?" He grumbled out lowering his head to kiss softly at her neck. "We could be enjoying each other's warmth and sleeping, yet you must play these games." She leaned her head back with a smile on her face, though her cheeks were stained red with her blush. "Wouldn't it be better to enjoy each other while we're awake? You barely stirred when I got up, you know." It had been adorable. He'd rolled onto her side of the bed when she moved away, letting out a snort before snoring again. A purr tore through him as he kissed her throat. "I am perfectly aware when you leave the bed, Taoshay. I simply know you will return to wake me soon enough." She squirmed under him, laughing as he moved to keep her hands together with one hand. The other traced her left arm, down the side of a breast, then gripping her waist firmly. "You're very aggressive this morning." She said, arching her back as his tongue found itself in her cleavage, lapping at the water that remained on her skin. "Hmmm...I think you like the attention, dear one." He purred at her before capturing her lips with his own. She couldn't say otherwise, she always loved him lavishing her with attention. It was one of the perks of waking him up, after all. Whether it was fun, playful attention or the rush of having a taste of what was sure to come at a later date. She wrapped a leg around his waist, pulling him close. He broke their kiss to give a rumbling purr of bliss as his erection ground against her. She took that moment to get her hands free and flip them. His back flush against the bed while she straddled him. "I think you secretly like mornings." She said, her hands exploring the hard muscle of his chest and abs. He rolled his hips, grinding against her as her small fingers traced his lower abs. "No. You are, however, an excellent distraction."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Cora sighed as she read and reread the message from Tiran. He certainly had a way with words, but never over the less-than secure Nexus channels. He wasn't exactly romantic--their relationship hadn't progressed to such a state. As far as she was concerned, at the moment, he was still an eligible bachelor with every right to find other partners. And, as far as he was concerned she could as well. For now, this suited their respective needs. They were both assigned to different posts, it would not be logical to develop a more attached relationship. Still, when he asked about how the Pathfinder was doing, she knew he really meant herself. He knew if anyone caught wind of their less than professional time alone together it would result in the monitoring of his emails. They couldn't get into her own, not with SAM on guard. And, in a way, if Tann or Addison monitored the emails it would make Viveka look better. They discussed how well the crew was adapting to the Angara, which was good. She discussed how well the Pathfinder's sister got on with the Resistance Leader, which really meant that the rest of them really didn't speak to him outside the Pathfinder and Jaal. She talked about how PeeBee had found some useful information about local wildlife that seemed to be used by the Angara as beasts of burden, which he would know was about the Rylkor later on. Things were subtle and hidden in their messages to each other, and it suited them just fine. Today was no different, he'd sent a subtle message asking about how well their latest mission to secure the Angara ties was going. He wanted to know if she expected trouble. She didn't want to worry him, but it would be a lie if she didn't say she wasn't a little worried. She was always worried right now. Agonizing how to write this message, she raked a hand through her hair. ----- PeeBee squealed as Sparky raced around the bridge, squawking at Suvi in indignation that she was out of tea already. He'd become accustomed to having some of her tea in the morning. Suvi tried to calm him, but it had just made it worse! Her soft shush was taken as an insult and now the young chick was throwing a temper tantrum, running around and stopping briefly to hiss and squawk in an annoyed manner. "Sparky, come on, stop!" PeeBee shouted, chasing the little thing as it ducked into the load out area. He merely let out an angry growl at her. She huffed and grabbed him, narrowing her eyes as he flailed in her grip, but didn't try to bite. "You are going in time out." She scolded the Rylkor, who suddenly stopped it's flailing and chirred miserably. She didn't want to assume they could understand speech, but it certainly seemed like it. Maybe it was the tone. Maybe it was specific key words. Maybe it was body language. Or all of the above. Still, whatever it was, Sparky understood he'd overstepped now and was going to be punished--again. She sighed. It was like having a kid. She wasn't sure if she was the right person for this...Still, she made a decision to see it through and she would. Besides, she almost had his training kit ready! ----- Nick was up early enough to head down to the cargo hold and do laps up top, slowly without her leg braces or biotics, but a slow walk was fine. She did two laps without braces, and five more with them. She stopped not because she was tired, but because she was worried about stressing her legs before the mission. She knew before the mission was done she'd have to use her biotics to keep herself from faltering, but that was fine. She would do anything to make sure the mission ended on a successful note. Anything. It wasn't until she was done with her laps that she noticed Evfra and Jaal stretching in the lower deck. Both were in full armor, which caused her to raise a brow as she settled into her hover chair and watched from the elevator. It didn't take long before a small fizzing sound happened, and both Angara were suddenly done stretching and had phased forward in a biotic-like fashion, clashing more towards Jaal's side than in the middle. Evfra was clearly faster. When their hands met above them in a fight for dominance, Evfra seemed to hold his own, but she could see he was straining far more than Jaal. It wasn't long before Jaal jumped up to kick at Evfra's stomach, causing him to let go with a grunt. Evfra retaliated with a swift and hard jab to Jaal's side, his fist sparking as it landed. Jaal was strong, but Evfra was fast. Jaal stumbled, but caught himself and cartwheeled away from the faster blue Angara. Nick's body broke out in goosebumps as she saw Evfra easily adjust, never taking his eyes from Jaal. As the Resistance Leader phased, so did Jaal. When they met, Jaal was slammed into the floor with the hand-like foot of Evfra grasping his shoulder and his other foot in a fist, having slammed into the outside of Jaal's left leg and pinning it down against the right. Jaal growled low and surged with bioelectricity, throwing the slimmer Angara off of him, but having to jerk his shoulder out of the tight grip. When Jaal stood, he opened his mouth and let out that strange chuffing sound again. Evfra grew ridged and let out a low growl. Bioelectricity clashed in the air and suddenly the cargo hold's lights flickered. Nick raised a brow as both men stopped, looking up at the light fixtures. "They are not fitted for bioelectrical battles." Evfra stated more than asked. Jaal nodded. "We will finish this another time." Jaal shot Evfra a smile. "Join us for lunch, Evfra! I am certain you will find it enlightening." Evfra scoffed, crossing his arms. "I'm sure. Come, we must go over the data from yesterday evening--I will not allow those I left in charge to damn us to failure." "Ah, yes. Just give me a moment, I must speak to Drack a moment before hand." "The Krogan?" "Yes. I want to make sure he is informed of you accompanying us to lunch." "Go. I will be upstairs." "I know." Jaal said and Nick gave a soft snort of amusement. Evfra glanced up at her and raised a brow ridge in question. Nikita raised a brow in return but her lips formed a small smirk as she turned her hover chair and hit the button to lower the elevator. "Bioelectrical sparring common with Angara?" She asked. Evfra crossed his arms. "In some cases." He said as he walked over and stepped onto the elevator. She pressed the button again and watched as he was brought up to her. She parked her hoverchair and stood, comfortable with her leg braces supporting her. She began to walk, and he walked by her side."You're real fucking fast. When I'm at one hundred percent we should spar." "We will see." He said noncommittally. "If you do not die on this mission." He said with a sniff of disapproval. "I'm not gonna fucking die, you grumpy old man." Nikita said as they got to the bridge. "You can hardly walk. And I am not old." "I'm not using my biotics and I'm walking just fine. And you act like it." "Arrogant." "You're fucking annoying. Did you know that?" "And you do not know when to stop talking." He growled in return. They made it back to her hoverchair and she slipped on. Both of them got on the lift and headed back down so they could head to the dining area where Jaal was speaking to Drack. -- Lunch was an amusing gathering of the crew. Kallo, a salarian, joined them today while Suvi manned the ship. His meal consisted of a small grub-like insect that they kept in the bio-lab. They helped fertilize the plants, apparently. He also had a healthy helping of a seaweed like plant that smelled salty.Vetra, the Turian, ate meats almost exclusively. Her teeth were almost disturbingly pointed, and her lack of lips reminded Evfra of predatory wild life on various worlds. The humans, asari, and krogan all ate a wide variety of foods, with slight variations for each meal. Himself and Jaal, of course, had nutrient paste. He had placed himself in beside Jaal and across from Nikita Ryder, while the Pathfinder sat next to her sister. Drack was leaning against the counter, while Peebee sat herself on the counter itself. Vetra was at one end of the table, between himself and Nikita, with Kallo directly across from her. Gil and Liam had opted to eat on Liam's couch after Gil challenged Liam to some human game of chance. Cora had taken her food and went to the Bio-lab, saying she had work to do. Everyone seemed to be talking about various topics. Vetra had even gotten himself and Nikita into a conversation about various weaponry. Nikita had taken the opportunity to show off her new Omni-blade settings, which got others to join in. "You made yourself claws?!" Viveka asked excitedly, looking at the blades with a grin. "Those are so cool!! Did you calibrate it only to this setting? Or can you change it back with different profiles?" PeeBee asked through a mouthful of food. Drack gave a laugh. "Up close and personal. Sure you ain't part Krogan, kid?" "I based them on Turian claws, yes it has a regular blade setting, and I may as well be one." Nick said, turning off the blades and grabbing a piece of bread. "Oh, and I am going to change the color. Never really liked orange." "Oh! I never thought of that." Viv said, fiddling with her omnitool. "Vivi, you have your entire wardrobe pink and blue, but you didn't think to change the Omni-blade color?" PeeBee asked before giggling. "Guess you were too distracted gettin' some." Viveka blushed and cleared her throat. "Can we not?" "My darling one and I are waiting. I wish to--" Jaal chuckled as Viveka glared at him. Nikita laughed heartily, and Evfra took note of how she looked so much...brighter when she laughed. "I dunno, Viv, I mean, I'm fucking curious about how Angara dicks look." Jaal let out a boisterous laugh as Viveka turned bright red. "Find yourself a shiny Angara, Nick! I'm not telling you a-about that!" "Okay then. Up for a little show and tell, big blue?" Nikita asked, causing Evfra to choke on his paste and cough. She grinned and gave him a wink as he glared at her. Jaal's laughter began all over again, and he nearly fell out of his chair at one point. Evfra shot a glare at him and growled, his bio electricity spiking for a moment. "Jaal told me a lot of Angara are good for a no strings attached lay, so we can go be each other's wingmen next time we're on Aya!" PeeBee announced, pointing her spoon at Nikita. "Nick, don't go propositioning the leader of the resistance for a one night stand!" Viveka scolded before looking at PeeBee. "And, you, young lady, are not to jump random Angara until we figure out the alliance." "Vivi, don't be jealous. I still love your ass the most!" PeeBee said with a wink. Viveka rolled her eyes. "Oh, wait, your sister has the same ass. So, I guess it's a tie." "Excuse the fuck outta me? My ass is clearly better than her's." Nikita tried to say with a straight face, only causing herself and Viv to burst into laughter. "Ok, so they're exactly the same." "Wait does that mean Jaal will know your body inside n out cuz he's banging Viv?" PeeBee asked and Jaal made a strangled sound. "That's..really weird to think about." Viv said, making a face. "No one could make me feel as you do, Taoshay." Jaal said. Sending some bioelectricity her way. Her biotics responded in kind, and the two smiled at each other. Now it was Nick's turn to make a face. "You two are gross." She said, faking a gag. "Kid, you don't have to smell them all the time like I do. Don't complain." Drack grumbled with a snort. Kallo sighed and glared at the others. "Why does it always come back to sex? Can't we just talk about something else?" "It would be nice." Vetra added, looking over at Nikita. "So, I heard something about how you destroyed a shuttle?" "Which one? I set the auto pilot on one and fucking jumped ship so it could crash into a Blue Suns base once. The other one I remotely controlled and fucking filled the bitch with explosives to take out a wounded thresher maw." Nick said, grinning.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Veold’s mountains shimmered with snow, blue and gray shadows being cast down by the large formations. Soft white clouds drifted above in the night sky, stars glittering like diamonds. A thick layer of ice had formed over most of the planet, covering the vast oceans in a splendid way. Below the surface large creatures swam, bioluminescent circular markings gleaming steadily over their long, serpentine bodies. A song drifted into the air in an eerie yet beautiful fashion that drifted through the air like a comforting blanket. It was beautiful. Nick leaned forward, placing her hand on the window of the shuttle. Her eyes wide as she drank in the sight. Sights like this were rare for her, she’d been so accustomed to the bloody battles of the traverse, she’d forgotten this feeling. The wanderlust that use to drive her to explore. It was something she had taken for granted, back then, the peace of it all. Her eyes drank it in and felt that same giddiness from she was young. Young, dumb, and stupid. Thinking I could be a singer. Not keeping a weapon on me. Her lips pressed together and she looked away, her eyes hardening as she suppressed the longing to return to those days. She wasn’t a naïve girl anymore, she was a warrior. Her eyes drifted to the others onboard. The resistance members on her team were soldiers born into this warring time, molded into fighters through painful losses and bloody battles. The members of the Pathfinder team in her group were uneasy, restless. They hadn’t been so thoroughly beaten that the fight became part of them. She didn’t wish it on them. It was a dark place one couldn’t return from. Her gaze shifted to the front of the shuttle, where Evfra stood beside the pilot. Another torn apart by death and destruction. Chaos consumed so many of his kind, yet so many still clung to the peace. Jaal, Viveka’s poor deluded Angara, clung to it close to his heart. Less of a warrior, more of a protector. Yes, that purple prince charming would protect Viveka from so much pain if he could. A pitifully unrealistic goal. Things like this couldn’t be avoided in war. And Viveka would be the tip of the spear in all of this. The leaders of the Initiative would ensure that. She was the face of the people, the symbol of hope. Evfra had a more realistic view of things. He knew there was no avoiding the losses they would endure. His gaze shifted to her briefly and their eyes met. There was an iciness to his gaze, one that called out for vengeance. The cold feeling of loss and the weight of every death that came to those who fought. She knew what he saw in hers. The unwavering flame that blazed with no end. The fury of a madwoman. He nodded at her, acknowledging her on a deeper level than most. He knew. He knew the battle ahead would likely cost lives. They were sacrificing the few for the many, getting this Moshae back. If he was willing to go into this for the Moshae, then she must be a significantly important person. An influential person. A leader. Viveka would come out of there changed, if she wasn’t already tainted by the battles against the Kett. She turned her gaze away and brought her mind away from such things. Soon she would need to turn to the darkest part of herself, the part that thrived in the blood of her enemies. Her bloodthirst that could never be quenched. -------- Veold’s cold environment made it difficult for Viveka to enjoy how beautiful the world was. Even now, in her seat on the warmed shuttle, she fidgeted, making sure her jacket was compressed properly beneath her upper armor set. She pulled up her hood over her helm, trying desperately to block out the memories of her last trip to Veold. The slave camp had been awful. The cold had been terrible. The Kett that were here in droves were disgustingly active. She hated Veold right now. She remembered the blood splattering over the snowy landscape. She remembered cleaning her armor by a heater, bunkered down in that terrible labor camp’s main building after the battle. Jaal, who had come to speak with her. In the stable environment of the building, Ryder took off her helm and began using a rag to wipe green blood off it. She didn’t look up at him, she didn’t need to. He somehow knew she knew it was him. He kneeled before her and pulled out a cleaning cloth of his own. Slowly, he began to clean the blood away from her arms. “We make an amazing team, huh?” She murmured, setting down her helm, giving him her arm as she began wiping off the chest piece still on her.
Jaal chuckled. “It was very exciting. I have never...connected with another like I have you.”
She smiled at him. “I bet, you’re purring pretty loud over there.”
“So, no one has ever seen the inside of one of these places, really?” Viveka asked and Jaal nodded. “None who lived to tell. The prisoners who are taken there never return. They are ‘the disappeared’.” “Has no one ever raided these places before?” Liam asked and Jaal shook his head. “We have liberated Kett work camps, but never one of these…larger buildings. We have hypothesized several things. Angara taken to the Kett home cluster, maybe used here for resources, I prefer to think death has taken them. Death…is better.” Jaal said softly. “We can’t just…give in to despair. We’ve gotta have hope. Hope that we can return those who are lost to their families.” Viveka said, giving his hand a squeeze. “That’s why we fight, it’s why we’re here.” “Yes, you are right, Viveka. It is why so many asked to be part of this mission. We have brought our best with us.” Jaal said, taking a deep breath. “It is why we’re excited to be part of this mission.” The Angaran pilot called back to them. “Sam, activate our HUD. Use normal color codes. Armor color configuration to surrounding area until mission is complete.” Viveka said, watching as her stats popped up on screen. She looked over to Jaal. “Activate ally status in emergency situation.” She added, watching as Jaal’s stats dropped out of her vision. Viveka shifted in her seat. Nick, she knew, was putting up her barriers and readying herself for the battle ahead. No one knew, only her. Nick never truly loved the killing of others. A dark part of her, one that festered within her soul, one that was stuck there by the Batarians, relished in it. The Batarians had carved out a piece of her and destroyed it. She’d replaced it with a falsified thrill of battle that soon became so real, so much a part of her, that it had warped into something terrifying. A hand gripped her’s and she almost jumped, looking over at Jaal and smiling. She leaned into his shoulder and smiled.
Viveka(Team One): Testing, testing. One, two, three.
Drack(Team One): Hear you loud and clear, kid. Drack replied, gripping his shotgun as he looked out the window. He was ready to get this show on the road. Jaal(Team One): Darling, it is awkward speaking into this when you are holding my hand. He looked over at her, causing her to chuckle. Viveka smiled at him, squeezing his hand with an amused gleam in her eye. “System test, Jaal. Gotta do it.”
Liam(Team One): Hey! Flirt with the Pathfinder off comms! It’s unfair to the rest of us!
“I flirt with Viveka where you can see often, Liam. Why did you not say you were uncomfortable with my affections toward her? Are you still hoping fo-“ Jaal began. “NO. I really, really don’t like other men sexually.” Liam said, waving his hands frantically. “Oh. Huh. No men at all? I can introduce you to—” The Angaran pilot said, a bit surprised. “No. Really.” Liam said, blushing a bit.Jaal chuckled and looked at Viveka, who grinned at him. ----
Viveka(Ground Team): Testing, testing. One, two, three.
Nick(Ground Team): You didn’t test your system out on the Tempest? I already ran a diagnostics test, the comms are fine. Nick replied, crossing her arms and looking over the rest of the crew. Cora(Ground Team): She usually runs diagnostics before we set out and only tests like this between missions when we’re on the ground. You okay, Viv? Cora asked, calmly looking out the window.
Jaal(Full Coms): Dearest is fine, just nervous.
Vetra(Ground Team): Of course you’d answer for her. Vetra said, rolling her eyes. PeeBee crossed her arms and huffed next to her. PeeBee(Ground Team): This is so unfair. You stuck me in the group with the people I don’t want to sleep with, Vivi! Betrayed by my own Vivi! Betrayed! PeeBee grumbled, throwing her hands up in the air as emphasis. Vetra(Ground Team): Maybe that’s why you’re on this team. Vetra pitched in, giving the Asari a quick wink.
Liam(Ground Team): Wait, am I included in the want to sleep with group?
PeeBee(Ground Team): If you wanna be, hot stuff. Though, I dunno, some of these nice Angara over here would make the cut. PeeBee practically gushed, grinning at the three stunned Angara who sat in front of their team.
Jaal(Ground Team): Please do not attempt to seduce my comrades, the ones who are on your team have their partners already.
PeeBee(Ground Team): That’s even worse! Ugh! This isn’t fair!
Nick(Ground Team): All right, cut the chatter, the comms work fuckin’ fine.
Nick rolled her eyes, placing a hand on her hip as it jutted out to the side. “Damn it, Viv. Get your shit together.” She murmured to herself, narrowing her eyes as she glared at the floor.-----
Viveka(Distraction Team): Can all the Angara hear me loud and clear? Evfra, I need a response from you too.
Heckt(Distraction Team): Loud and clear, Pathfinder.
Voraan(Distraction Team): Stay strong and clear, Pathfinder! May the stars guide us to safety!
Tisarn(Distraction Team): Jaal, I am not mated.
Viveka(Distraction Team): I’ll let Jaal know.
Nick(Distraction Team): Evfra can hear you, I see his nose wrinkle and sneer every time you say something.
Evfra(Distraction Team): Our communication lines are fine, human.
“Jaal, Tisarn says that he isn’t mated.” Viveka said and grinned at him. Jaal snorted. “Tisarn would be a good match for PeeBee. He is non-committal to his partners.” Jaal would be there the entire time, fighting by her side. She turned her face and enjoyed the feel of the soft Rofjinn that he so proudly wore. She wouldn’t fail him. Never him. -----
Viveka: Jaal says Tisarn and PeeBee have free reign to flirt.
Evfra: You are an annoyance.
Nick: Agreed. Why do we have so many fucking com systems? One for the whole distraction team would have been more efficient.
Evfra: Our technology is not fully compatible to yours, human. The Pathfinder found a way to set up communications, but it is unrefined and restrictive. It was, apparently, incredibly difficult to code this
channel.
Jaal: I helped, it was not so much difficult as time consuming. We could not get everyone’s frequencies early enough.
Viveka: Which caused that stupid sparring session between you two. You’re both still on my bad side for blowing that light.
Nick: That was what that was about?
PeeBee: I missed out on half naked Angara wrestling?! Why didn’t someone get me for the show?!
Viveka: Jaal’s my boyfriend and I didn’t even get to see it.
Nick: You just missed the exploding light, really. Evfra was clearly faster, but Jaal has strength. It was interesting. Their bioelectrics are really fucking cool, but it looked like Jaal's had more electric shit going on.
Tisarn: Did you just…
Heckt: Aliens.
Voraan: Rude Aliens.
Jaal: My bioelectrics are rather impressive. However, Evfra does not use his to the full extent with his soldiers.
Viveka: I don’t know where this went, or how that was rude, or why Jaal is suddenly grinning like mad.
Vetra: Probably some kind of pissing contest with bioelectrics.
Jaal: Pissing contests do not actually include urinating! It is a masculinity contest! I have learned this from Liam recently! And, yes, that is what it amounts to.
Liam: So…you basically called Evfra the lesser man.
Nick: Not that I give a damn, but we humans don’t have that bioelectric crap. Men of our species usually try to posture with aggression, or dick size comparisons. Not that us females care about either.
Vetra: From what I’ve seen women of your species have really complex ideas of masculinity and it varies from person to person.
Jaal: Angara find stability the most appealing.
Cora: Stability is a very nice quality to have.
Viveka: Agreed.
Nick: Can we stop now, this whole who’s the better man conversation is weird. Men are men.
PeeBee: I don’t get it at all. Asari don’t have this kind of thing. Monogender and all.
Tisarn: Your people are monogendered?
Nick: Take that discussion off coms. I don’t want to hear it.
Evfra: Indeed.
Jaal: It is fascinating!
Viveka: Keep the chatter to a minimum, guys.
------
Nick rolled her eyes as PeeBee grinned at Tisarn. “You see, Asari only have what are considered by other species as female. We reproduce differently, all of us can bare children, all of us can be fathers. We can breed without sexual intercourse, but, of course, the concept of sex became an alluring one when we found out about it. Sex for Asari is just fun, however, embracing eternity can result in children…if we want it to.” Tisarn blinked and the other two Angara looked to her curiously as she explained Asari reproduction.
Nick: Viveka, you better get the fuck out as soon as I give the signal.
Viveka: I thought you’d be using that as a distraction technique.
Nick: Not over comms, stupid.
Viveka: Not like I’ve been on missions with you for a while, Nike.
Nick: Don’t call me that, bitch.
Viveka: Bring us victory or bring us death, Nike!
Nick: I’m going to kill your ass later.
Nick pulled up her omnitool and put on her private playlist, tuning the conversation out. By the way some of the Angara glanced at her, she was certain they were catching the song somehow. Likely not by hearing, it probably had to do with how the song was produced through an electric device in her helm. There was no way of knowing how much they heard, but that didn’t matter. She looked down at herself, adjusting her light armor and clenching her jaw as she finally zipped her under armor over her neck, turning towards the door as Evfra called out they were at their destination. She pulled on her helmet and stepped into the cold. She was the first one out, trudging through the snow toward the glowing shield of their target building. She’d made sure to wear a light armor that had heating units built into it, along with insulating under armor, however she knew that she still could not be out in the cold as long as the rest. She had no coat and couldn’t wear heavy armor, it was too clunky. “Sam, get started on those shields as soon as everyone gathers.” Nick said, taking a deep breath and tapping her omnitool, preparing for the distraction. She watched as Cora and PeeBee caught up to her, backpacks strapped to them both. Viveka was next, then Tisarn, Heckt, and Voraan. Jaal, as always, had vigilantly been checking for threats around them. Liam and Drack came up next, with Evfra taking up the rear.
SAM: Beginning decryption. Please stand by.
“Yup.” Nick said, releasing her claw-like omniblades. “So...What was up with that Nike thing?” Liam asked, trying to be sociable and Nick’s lip curled in distaste. “Nick earned the nickname Nike in the Alliance—Nike was the companion of Athena and was the goddess of Victory.” Cora supplied, adjusting the straps of the heavy backpack. “Shut your god damned mouth. I’m no fucking lucky charm.” Nick said, a smirk settling into place as the shield gave way. SAM had done a good job, not taking down the entire shield but only a small hole for them to get through. Viveka looked over to the others. “Jaal, we’ll find the Moshae. Everyone…try to stay safe.” Voraan gave a soft snort of amusement. “Pathfinder, no one joins the Resistance to stay safe.” Nick nodded. “Let’s get going, it looks like a storm is coming.” She slipped through and her smile grew wide as she stalked toward the building. “I’m going to kill them all.” Her voice was soft, almost breathless, as she took the lead. Everyone hurried to follow, Evfra’s anger growing with every step. She was going to endanger the mission if she acted recklessly. She was found immediately inside, a stack of datapads in her hand. “Download the information off of all of these, Sam.” She said, looking around. She stopped at a table, grabbing a set of children’s clothes that sat next to a pile of things they obviously were going to be throwing away—clothes, necklaces, some small toys. She drove her omniblade claws into the table and turned to Viv, who nodded. Nick immediately handed the clothes to Viv, who stored it in one of the many pockets of her armor. Silently, Nick walked over to Evfra. “Room clear. All data extracted being sent to you by SAM now. I’m going ahead, you and yours find any prisoners. Good luck.” She turned her eyes to Viveka, lifting her chin. “We’ll win this.” “Victory or death.” Viveka said, saluting Nick. Before Evfra could say anything, Nick took off with her team. Viveka turned her eyes to him. “They have children. She’s going to make sure you get them out.” Without any other explanations about the sudden change of plans, Viveka turned to Jaal. “Nick went left, we’re going right. She’s picked up on something already.” She turned her eyes to Evfra once more. “Follow Nick’s trail, she’ll make sure you know if she’s found prisoners.” And then the Pathfinder ran, her team following her quickly. Evfra growled, waving his soldiers over and they raced through the door that Nick’s team disappeared through. ------------ Several twists and turns later, Evfra had found Nick had already set up bombs, attached to pillars in various places.
Nick(DT): Commander, prisoners three doors down on the left. More life signs beyond that. I’m headed in the opposite direction and starting the distraction. We’ll meet you for extraction.
Evfra(DT): Do not jeopardize this mission, human.
Nick(DT): I’m the bait, don’t worry, you and Viv will get out just fine.
Viv(DT): Don’t die, Nike.
Nick(DT): Can’t make any promises, beautiful.
Evfra’s eyes narrowed as she cut off her comms. ----- It was after they’d released half the prisoners when Nick’s lilting voice echoed through the halls. He grasped the handle of a pod, pulling it to release yet another.
Dreams to dream In the dark of the night
When the world goes wrong
Her voice was alluring, threatened to peel away the feel of battle. It was almost surreal as he continued pulling prisoners out of pods, shaking his head as some refused to move. He grabbed two more levers and kept opening pods, quickly moving onto the next. If the Angara inside wished to be saved, they would keep moving. Several imprisoned Angara were helping release more, despite their less than healthy bodies. So far they’d found seven children, and two expecting mothers.
I can still make it right
I can see so far in my dreams
I’ll follow my dreams
Until they come true
He barked orders to the prisoners, having the large group follow Heckt to the extraction point. They had to get hundreds of Angara back to the base. Those that were coherent and weren’t in the first extraction group helped open more pods, the less able following the extraction group with Heckt. Another child tumbled from a pod. Something about Nikita's voice singing about dreaming of more felt...eerie.
Come with me
You will see what I mean
There’s a world inside
No one else ever sees
You will go so far in my dreams
Somewhere in my dreams
Your dreams will come true
Now was not the time for skutting wistful singing. What was that crazy woman doing? He checked his Biotool and saw she was on a lower level, at least two floors down. He grit his teeth and opened another pod, then another. “They were changing us…” Several said similar things, not that he had time to question them right now. He couldn’t make sense of it. Changing them? No. Not the time to ask questions. He gave out orders quickly. He glanced to where he last saw Nick.
There is a star
Waiting to guide us
Shining inside us
When we close our eyes!
He reached the last of three rooms, here there was a console. Owwin, one of the trapped Angara from the first room, was one of those in better shape. He was handed a gun looted from a cache on the way there, and he was sent to another series of rooms with some more able-bodied Angara. Only five had weapons. He heard gunfire and knew Owwin and the others had encountered some resistance. The gunfire didn’t last long, however. Owwin’s voice filtered through the room. “Clear! I can’t believe I’m killing these monsters!” “We will kill many more.” Skaev, another freed prisoner, said. Down below he felt more than heard the blast of Nikita's biotics--a powerful blast that almost startled him. She was fighting?
Don’t let go
If you stay close to me
In my dreams, tonight.
You will see what I see
Dreams to dream
As near as can be
Inside you and me
They always come true
Evfra: We are beginning prisoner escort. Detecting no more life signs in this section, and only a few on the opposite end of the building. All teams, report.
Nick: Beginning phase two, enemies incoming on my team. At least thirty.
Viv: Clear here, found some ritual going on…What the fuck? Angara are…willingly stepping into those pod things?
Suddenly an explosion shook the building.
Nick: It’s show time, boys and girls. Enjoy!
I know there’s someone, somewhere
Someone who’s sure to find me soon
After the rain goes
There are rainbows
I’ll find my rainbow soon
Soon it won’t be just pretend
Soon a happy ending!
Love, can you hear me?
If you’re near me Sing your song
S
ure and strong an—
Her voice cut off and gunfire began. Evfra sent a second group of prisoners with Tisarn, Voraan waiting to take the last group. ------ Nick laughed as she phased forward, her blades sinking into the flesh of a Kett soldier’s neck as she threw a singularity in the middle of a strange Kett who’s shielding bot had been taken out by Cora. She grinned as the singularity tore him apart from the inside out, pulling the Kett around him towards the blackhole of pain. Her grin became maniacal as she slashed down another opponent before phasing to the right and pain shot through her legs. Encasing them in biotics, she raced through the hoards of Kett, Vetra and Cora desperately shooting off round after round to fight the numbers of Kett down. For every one, another seemed to flow in. Reaching the left side of the room, Nick threw a shockwave, knocking several Kett off their feet. A singularity followed, and Vetra yelled out as she threw a grenade into another pack of them. PeeBee was shooting Kett from cover across the room, her dual pistols raining down bullets. “These guys don’t stop coming!” PeeBee shouted. "We're not going to last long like this!" Nick leapt over a box and used her free hand to pull out her pistol, shooting one point blank in the face as her omniblades tore into another. She cackled with glee as green blood sprayed over her. Music flooded her helm and she took to the air, twisting around and shooting off a warp followed by a singularity. Gunfire and blood filled her with glee as she slammed her fist down in a biotic slam, taking out a group of Kett. She turned and charged another Kett who was almost on top of PeeBee. "Keep up, asari, you're laggin' behind." Vetra ducked behind a kinetic shield and reloaded her rifle. "Reloading! Spirits, more behind!" ---- Viveka, Jaal, Drack, and Liam hurried through the base, following the life signs that popped up on her HUD. A desperation filled her to the core as they entered a decontamination chamber. They had been met with little resistance and could hear gunfire and explosions distantly. Beyond the glass stood a Kett with an Angara. What were those syringes? What…were they doing? The Kett slammed the syringes into the Angara, and Jaal placed his hand on the glass, eyes widening in horror. The Angara rose into the air, his every muscle spasming. “No.” Jaal said, fear in his voice. Jaal screamed, bashing his gun against the glass, trying to crack it as the Angara’s skin darkened into black. Sam told Jaal it wouldn't break, but Jaal was panicked. Viveka distantly heard herself yell, throwing a biotic blast at the glass as the Angara landed on the floor, his skin and muscles falling to the ground and a Kett standing in his place. She dove through the window, quickly followed by the others as she pulled out Moshi-Moshi and shot the Kett who had changed the Angara. Her eyes were wild as she slammed into another with a biotic-filled punch. She said something into the comms. She wasn’t sure what. She was scared. Panicking along side Jaal in the middle of battle. Jaal was crying out as they killed one Kett after another. Panic and pain filled her to the core, she couldn’t hear what Drack was yelling back at Jaal as bullets flew through the room. ------
Viveka: They’re just like the Geth!!!
Nick’s eyes widened as she tore through another Chosen.
Viveka: Husks! HUSKS!!
Her voice rattled into Nick’s ears, and she began to tear through the Kett faster. Viveka needed her!
Jaal: They are us!!! No! Don’t hurt—
Drack: They’re shooting at us, what do you expect us to do!?
Liam: Get ahold of yourselves!
Evfra: Report!
Drack: The Kett are changing your people into more Kett! Get your asses out of here! Jaal and the kid are--oof!--Stay down, kett bastard!--Jaal and the kid are having a moment.
Nikita: Viveka! Snap the fuck out of it! Kill them before they turn more!
Jaal: NO DON’T HURT THE ANGARA!!
Drack: It’s not Angara anymore! It’s Kett!
Viveka: Geth! I won't-You won't take me alive!
Jaal: Monsters! Villains!
Liam: Jaal! Viv! Calm down! We gotta stay calm!
Cora burst in to her right, using shockwaves to knock several Kett back.
Vetra: Meeting heavy resistance, here! We’ve got at least fifty Kett!
Nikita: Viveka Sara Ryder! Breathe!
----- Evfra set Heckt in charge of the squad as he raced through the facility, running as fast as his legs could take him. Another explosion went off, somewhere down below. A floor down, a room had caved down into the floor below. He leapt down, stumbling as he landed. He rolled forward and pulled himself to his feet immediately. He followed the life signs and fury blinded him. That skutting woman had fifty kett on her ass and she was more concerned about her sister? ---- Liam and Drack managed to get through to Jaal, who openly wept as the feeling of murdering his own people settled into his stomach. Viveka’s own pain and fear amplified his, but as he turned she flew past him, racing towards the next room. “We have to find the Moshae!” She yelled, and he took off after her. Sam led them into a large room, and across the way a large Kett was dragging the Moshae. The Cardinal. Kett swarmed in just as he yelled out the Moshae’s location to his team, and suddenly Viveka was racing through the swarms of Kett, her Annihilation field lifting soldiers into the air. Liam threw a frag grenade across the room, injuring several Kett entering from a door midway through the chamber. Drack was charging forward, taking out five Kett with blasts from his shotgun. ----- Evfra reached the chamber where Nick and her team were surrounded by Kett. Cora had a barrier up around them, protecting the others as they took out Kett with guns and biotics. He charged into the fray, wielding dual shotguns. He mowed through the pack, his arms aching from the recoil of his gun. If he hadn’t had experimental recoil dampeners on his guns, he knew he wouldn't have been able to shoot like that. As it was, he would be lucky if this fight ended with only broken bones. He grit his teeth as Nikita charged with her biotics again--this time toward a pack that PeeBee had caught in a singularity. Nikita’s armor had several broken pieces where Kett had gotten to her. Her left arm bleeding from three bullet wounds, and her helm was tossed to the side, the faceplate broken. Vetra’s side was bleeding. PeeBee had blood trailing from her nose. Cora was closing her eyes, trying to keep the shield up. “Skkut!” Evfra yelled as he twisted away from a Destined who popped up in front of him. He shot it in the side, continuing forward as it dropped. SAM’s voice echoed through over the battle from Nick’s squad’s omnitools as he reached them. An electric pulse that could kill the Kett and take down the facility. At the expense of any Angara still within. Nikita left the barrier of protection, phasing forward and slashing down two Kett while throwing a singularity into one of the larger packs. “We need to get the fucking Angara out! Cora, Peebs! Switch up!” She yelled, and the two biotics switched roles. Evfra was pissed. She wasn't supposed to be running headlong into danger--the distraction team was supposed to set off bombs and provide some relief for the pathfinder's team, not call on the entire skutting base. They had to break through to the door if they wanted to save his people now, through the army of Kett. ---- The Cardinal’s forces dwindled as the battle raged on, Destined and Chosen dropping to bullets and biotic attacks. “There she is! They are going to take her! They’re trying to leave!” Jaal shouted out, pointing towards a large set of opened doors. “You will not have her.” The Cardinal said, a bot shielding him from bullets. “No, you will not take her!” Viveka shouted back, throwing a warp at the bot and charging forward as the Cardinal dropped and began shooting. She'd lost to Geth once. She wasn't going to lose to the Kett. Not this time. Never again. They were going to get these assholes. A bullet grazed her side as she shot the Cardinal’s leg with Moshi-Moshi. “Protect the Chosen One!” The Cardinal yelled, and a Destined slammed into her side, sending her flying. She brought up her shotgun just in time to see Jaal’s bullet hit the Kett in a perfect headshot. The Cardinal got another shield bot up and running and he sneered. “My own exaltation shield will protect me! You flawed beings!” He snapped, shooting at her as she rolled. Her shields down, she took cover behind a crate as Liam and Jaal focused on the Cardinal. She shot a Chosen that tried to flank her and drove her omniblade into it’s gut. A bullet ricochet off her helm and she ducked back into cover. “Not for long, asshole!” Viveka yelled as Jaal got the bott down once more. Liam’s bullets flew into the Cardinal, and Viveka had to mow down the last Destined that had popped up beside Jaal. “Now you have to deal with me!” The Cardinal yelled. “We fight to the death, protect this sacred place!” The Cardinal didn’t seem to notice he was the last one standing as Jaal’s bullets ripped into him. “Fight! The Archon will reward you.” Jaal had to send another shielding bot down, but an Anointed entered the room. “Do not let them take the Chosen!” Viveka leapt into the air and slammed down with her biotics. It took down the Anointed’s shields, and it tried to back into cover. Moshi-Moshi took care of it before it could. Jaal tood down another bot, and Liam forced the Cardinal to fall. Jaal’s left leg had taken a shot gun blast, and Liam’s left arm hung loosely by his side. Viveka ran to the Moshae and checked her for injuries. She seemed pale, and was unable to stand on her own. “Gotcha, we’re getting you out of here.” Viveka said, swallowing the bile that threatened to surface from the disgust. The Kett were terrible monsters. “No one has returned from behind Kett walls.” The Moshae said, almost in a daze as Jaal and Liam caught up. “Well, too bad. I'm getting you out of here.” Viveka said before opening her comms.
Viveka: We’re heading to extraction, we have the Moshae.
Nikita: Just get her out of here. Evfra! Door is clear!
---- Nick, Cora, Evfra, Vetra, and PeeBee raced out of the room that was littered with dead Kett, occasionally coming across a wraith, but the forces were dwindling. The team had been able to grab another load of prisoners and protect them from the battle as much as possible.
Nikita: Heading to extraction!
As they got upstairs, Owwin was leading a group of Angara towards extraction.
Nikita: We’re still moving prisoners!!! Get going, Viveka! I’m going to set off the bombs after we’re clear!
Viveka: Got it! Don’t do anything stupid!
Nikita: Shut the fuck up and go!
A small child struggled to keep up, and Evfra scooped the little girl up with one arm as he ran. “Get skutting moving!” He yelled, and everyone tried to pick up the pace. When they got to doors that lead outside, a small force of Kett and a Fiend came storming out a nearby door. Nick and Cora immediately shielded the group, those who had guns focused on the Kett, taking them out, but leaving behind an exalted Fiend. As they neared the shuttle Nick pulled out the remote for her bombs.
Nikita: Is everyone out?!
Viveka: We’re on the shuttle!
Heckt: Loading up our shuttles! Owwin! Get started on shuttle two! Voraan, shuttle three! Tisarn, shuttle four! When we get them in, everyone else in five! Hurry!
Not enough time. The fiend was catching up. Nick charged, throwing the fiend back with a shockwave and drawing her pistol. More Kett started pouring out as the fiend fell, and she threw out a warp.
Heckt: Load up into the shuttle! Everyone, move!
Nikita: I’ll keep the heat off of you, get going!
Evfra: We can shoot from th-
Nikita: Too risky! Move! Make sure Viveka is safe! I’m setting off the bombs now!
As the pilot began to take off, Evfra leapt out of the shuttle. He landed on his feet with cat like grace before running toward Nikita. Nick, however, had other plans. She grabbed him in a throw with her biotics and threw him back into. The shuttle door closed and she hit the trigger for the bombs. Debris went flying, taking out a good section of the Kett forces headed her way, snow and smoke clouding her vision. She glanced back and watched as the shuttles retreated. “Sam. EMT field. Kill the bastards.”
SAM: EMT field initiated.
A shockwave rocked the ground, causing her to fall back. She cried out as her head hit something hard, and her vision wavered. “Status.”
SAM: Temperatures dropping below recommended parameters. Enemy forces have been eliminated.
Nikita: Victory...or...death…If you can hear me, Viv…don’t cry…
As the world faded into darkness, she could distantly hear her name being called.
SAM: Temperatures dropping below recommended parameters.
SAM: Nikita Ryder is losing consciousness.
SAM: Temperatures dropping below recommended parameters.
SAM: Nikita Ryder is losing consciousness.
SAM: Emergency proto--
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
When Evfra’s back hit the occupants of the shuttle, knocking a few already weakened Angara rescues over, his mind raced. What was that skutting human doing?! Was she insane? Just then the pilot shut the shuttle doors and began to take off. No! He growled and pushed off of a pale green Angara, punching the emergency control for the door before leaping out. He gasped in midair as a shockwave hit him, forcing the air from his lungs. Still, he forced himself to activate his jump jet—thank you, Jaal—and landed on his feet in the snow.
SAM: Temperatures dropping below recommended parameters. Enemy forces eliminated.
Nikita: Victory…if you can hear me, Viv…don’t cry…
Evfra’s hand immediately went to his helm, cupping it as if it would help him communicate easier.
Evfra: Human!
He yelled into his comm as he vaulted over a rock and began looking around. Getting his bearings he ran towards the now destroyed Kett facsility as a stray firework worked its way out of the rubble and exploded in vivid reds and gold in the sky.
SAM: Temperatures dropping below recommended parameters.
SAM: Nikita Ryder is losing consciousness.
The AI’s voice rang out as Evfra ran, looking around, he knew this was the extraction point. She should be up ahead, toward the rubble…somewhere.
Evfra: Nikita Ryder!
SAM: Temperatures dropping below recommended parameters.
He called her name, this time, cursing under his breath as he received no answer. “By the skutting stars! It had to be an alien, a skutting alien. It couldn’t have been a skutting sensible one?” He snarled as he looked around for a heat signature. Another firework whistled as it found a way out, exploding overhead with a flurry of green and orange. The heat from the fireworks from inside the building, and the ones that were getting loose, were messing with his scans. “Skutting human! Answer me!”
SAM: Nikita Ryder losing consciousness.
This wasn’t good. He whipped his head around, looking for a heat signature that wasn’t fire and skutting fireworks. When he found it he took off towards it, using his bioelectricity to phase forward several paces.
Evfra: Skutting gosan yav daar skuttaa alien! Human! Nikita Ryder, answer me!
He growled as he found her body half buried beneath snow and small bits of rubble. Luckily, nothing heavy. He placed an arm beneath her shoulders and curled the other around her hips, holding her close to his body for warmth. Her head dropped onto his shoulder and he could smell the coppery smell of her blood so thick in the air he could taste it.
SAM: Emergency protocols activated. Team contacted. Navpoints sent. Secure location found. Evfra de Tershaav, there is a cave fifty meters to the Southwest and thirty meters down.
He snarled in response, angry at the situation. He should have grabbed her as he had run forward earlier, instead of thinking he could be of any help to the team getting his people on the shuttles. They had not needed him there. He should have known she hadn’t boarded the shuttle—he had passed by her! Instead, when he had turned around, he had seen her there. Sacrificing her safety for those of his people. People died every day. His people were in a skutting war. She had had time to board, she had to have known she could get to safety. Instead she brought down the building—after everyone was at a safe distance. Destroyed the Kett’s main Veold stronghold. It was a heroic deed, but it was not her skutting people to die for! He knew that wasn't right--that she bought them time. That if she hadn't the last shuttle wouldn't have made it out. He skid down a snowy hill and leapt to a small enclave. Again, he jumped down to another. There, below the first, hidden by the formation of rock above, was an abandoned Enoch cave. Inside, he found it wound deep down, and wasn’t as cold in the innerworkings of the cave. There was a hotspring—or what use to be one—with just under lukewarm water, in the middle of the farthest cavern. The area that he chose wasn’t large, but it had the remnants of an Enoch nesting area, was somewhat warm, and enough room to lay her down. As he lay her down on the floor of the cave, he winced when he saw blood frozen to the back of her head. ------- Viveka wiped the blood from her nose and leaned back in her seat, staring across the shuttle to Jaal, who was fussing over the Moshae. He had quadruple checked her seat belt, making sure she was safe, but was looking over it again, much to the Moshae’s discomfort. “Jelly Bean, you’ve already checked.” Viveka said, causing Jaal to flinch and look over to her. “I know, dear one, but I—” He fidgetted looking anywhere but her face. “He’s adding his worries over you onto me.” The Moshae commented, a small shrug coming from her shoulders. “Jaal, get over here, you’re allowed to fuss over me after fights, you know.” Viveka said. Jaal had leapt up in the middle of her sentence, rushing over to her to look over her self-treated wounds and using his Rofjinn to dab at her bleeding nose. “I…did not want you to think I did not trust you with your own wounds.” He said as Viveka jerked his Rofjinn from her face and handed him a piece of cloth she normally used for cleaning her armor of blood. “Stop using that, it’s important. And this was a big battle, we were lucky we all got out.” Viveka said as the others of the crew murmured their agreement. “We all did get out, right, Sam? You would have told me if we didn’t?”
SAM(Private): Nikita Ryder is currently in the care of Evfra de Tershaav and awaiting extraction.
Viveka jerked away from Jaal’s tender touch, placing a hand on her ear as if to hear the A.I. better. “Care to repeat that for the class?” She grit out, demanding Sam’s obedience.
SAM(Omnitool): Nikita Ryder and Evfra de Tershaav are awaiting extraction.
----- Jaal was right, their blood was red. And…unpleasant to see. Evfra reached into a pouch at his thigh and brought out a roll of gosanara gauze. Dipping a little in the water, he used it to break down the frozen blood and clean the small wound. For as heavily she had bled, the wound there had been remarkably small. “Infuriating human.” He grumbled as he wrapped the wound and moved on to the next. She had a bullet in her side that he couldn’t remove without tools, a shard of what looked like armor stuck in her shoulder, and the entirety of her legs were stiff with tension. He sighed as he looked up at the stalactites overhead. “Stars guide me.” He grit out after he’d finished with her wounds. He unclipped the straps that bound his Rofjinn, unfurling the scarf-like garment and wrapping her in it. She was so small. He’d noticed with her sister, but not with her. She was almost delicate looking, wrapped in his Rofjinn from neck to toe. She was no bigger than a child on the cusp of sexual maturity. It made him uneasy about sharing Ushior with her. It made him uneasy about treating her wounds, even. Humans already seemed like a delicate species, but the way this one had held herself she'd felt bigger. It was completely wrong feeling that she was so...tiny. It was odd that he and Jaal would be the first Angara with human mates, but reality was rarely so interesting. Under normal circumstances the most interesting—and terrible—thing was the war with the Kett. However, now there were more alien races in the mix, and not just human. Krogan, Asari, Human, Salarian…Jaal mentioned his little human had known a great many races. Perhaps these aliens find it normal to have such relations. Evfra’s hands found the clasps of his flexible armor, releasing them as he made the chest piece into a make shift pillow for her head to rest upon, it’s sturdy sides keeping her head afloat while the flexible chest and back pieces bending to cushion her head comfortably. Standing, he looked over to the nest. He curled his lip in distaste as he grabbed handfuls of the brittle sticks and dead plants. Some had what he knew was fecal matter on it, but he could not be picky. He brought it all into a pile and began searching the cave for living plants. He ended up with an arm load of mushrooms—and one large one he would have to cut into smaller pieces to burn. Setting them carefully around the pile he’d made of the nest, he pulled out a small sunlamp—a staple of Angara medical kits—and turned it on directly against the pile. The fire started slowly, eating away at the slightly damp nestings. After the fire got started, he moved the human nearby, stripping himself of his shirt and pulling it over her head for extra warmth. Her arms were bound beneath the Rofjinn, so he wound the arms of his shirt around her, tying it loosely. The neckline was odd on a human, far too large due to their lack of cowls. Then again, the entire shirt was far too large. He could no longer see her thighs with it on. He checked to make sure the neckline was behind her head before turning to the large mushroom to slice it into pieces. It was almost night, and with the storm starting to rage outside the rescue team would be slowed down, even with a navigation point. He knew the others were beyond Angara comm distance, but the AI likely was able to communicate to them. “AI, are you there?” He asked the air, feeling slightly awkward as he sliced another portion from the mushroom.
SAM(Nick Omnitool): Yes.
“Have you contacted the others for a search and rescue squad?” He asked the disembodied voice.
SAM(Nick Omnitool): Yes. ETA with the weather is approximately six hours. Commander Heckt reports survivors are being transported to Techiix. The Pathfinder is unable to join the search party due to injury. Mr. Ama Darav, Lieutanant Harper, and Commander Heckt will be on the search and rescue team. The Pathfinder and Commander Heckt have gone against the Resistance orders given to them by returning.
“Explain.”
SAM(Nick Omnitool): The current Resistance Leader, in your absence, has given orders against a search party.
“Inform Commander Do Xeel that Eska Piraat’s orders of search and rescue have been over ridden by Resistance Leader Evfra de Tershaav. The Pathfinder’s sister is in need of medical attention.” Evfra said, settling the slices of mushroom down on the floor by the fire to dry.
SAM(Nick Omnitool): Nikita Ryder is in stable condition. It is advised she does not use her legs for the next few days, and then a week of assisted exercise. She will be fine, Commander.
Evfra allowed his brows to raise in surprise at the AI. Was it giving an opinion? Was it trying to comfort him? Fascinating. There had once been Angaran AI, if one could believe the tales of old, that held a large amount of emotion. “You are monitoring her life signs?” He asked.
SAM(Nick Omnitool): Nikita Ryder has a permanent biotic implant in which is intertwined deeply with her brain. I am housed within it to prevent overheating as much as possible, as a result I am able to monitor her on a more advanced level. Her sister, The Pathfinder, and I have a similar, stronger, connection. Nikita Ryder was knocked unconscious by debris during the detonation, her legs have been strained more than advisable, her left arm and shoulder have fractures, but she is otherwise giving stable life signs now that you have made a fire.
“You are a part of them?”
SAM(Nick Omnitool): In a physical sense, it could be observed as such. However, we have a symbiotic relationship. I can not survive without Viveka, Nikita could not survive without me, and Viveka could not survive without either of us.
“…Why?”
SAM(Nick Omnitool): Alec and Ellen Ryder installed me into their children due to Nikita’s uncontrollable biotics. Ellen Ryder's research into biotic implants was due to this. There was an experimental academy at the time of Nikita’s biotic growth, and much was going wrong within the facility. Many children returned not themselves. To prevent harm to the children, Alec and Ellen Ryder created a VI biotic implant.
The increase in Nikita’s power made it impossible to control over the years without a better biotic implant. Alec implanted me into the implant to upgrade it as needed. I was later upgraded to AI by Alec for Ellen, due to a fatal illness. He did not complete the process until after Ellen said goodbye to her children.
Viveka, unlike Nikita, did not require a consistently evolving implant. Her biotics remain stable. However, after transfer of Pathfinder status I had to revive nerve endings and brain cells, as she was clinically dead for 22 seconds. This caused an integration directly into her brain chemistry. If I were to be completely removed, Viveka would die within an estimated twenty minutes.
Evfra frowned and moved over to Nikita, picking her up and sitting her between his legs, head against his chest as he sat against the cave wall. “You are always watching?”
SAM(Nick Omnitool): I attempt not to intrude during private moments, and I do not see what they do not, so no. I move my processes elsewhere, as much as possible, and shut down visuals. I, however, am always listening as a precaution. I am, in that sense, a part of them.
“If you can not see without them, you cannot see us currently?”
SAM(Nick Omnitool): No. I can hear you through Nikita’s Omnitool. By scanning the surroundings, I could, in a sense, watch you two. It is also how I know you are trustworthy of this information. I am aware of the Ushior and what it means for your people. Nikita herself is not, though she does find it irritating she can feel your bioelectricity every so often.
“Hn.” Evfra said, shifting slightly and settling Nick’s head on his shoulder as he wrapped an arm around her waist. He looked down at her, taking note of the tangles in her now loose hair. Somewhere between the beginning of the mission and now her hair had come down from the high bun into a loose bun draping over her shoulder. Her hair was…long. He wasn’t sure how long, exactly, her hair was always up in a knot. When had she removed her helm? And why? She smelled like Veold’s ice storms, with something spicy chasing the scent. It was odd, to smell hot and cold scents at once. His gaze dropped to the wound at her side, knowing they’d have to remove the bullet immediately. The exposed skin from her ripped body suit had been scarred, as her arm had been on the vidcall. They marred her body as thoroughly as his own, he was sure. Sighing, he looked over at the fire where the mushrooms he found slowly burned. That specific type mushroom burned slow and steady, and he was glad for it. Humans didn't do well in the cold. Maybe he was just as much a fool as Jaal. He’d jumped from a shuttle to save a foolish alien who seemingly had a death wish. He certainly didn’t adore her, she was frustratingly alien, annoying, and crude. However, she wasn’t terrible. She was…different, but not too much so. He enjoyed her scent, too. There was that. She wasn’t…horrible looking. For an alien, he supposed she was attractive, in a way. She would, perhaps, do. If she could quit being a skutting stubborn fool. ------- “No, the aliens were not attacking.” Paaran Shie said to the Aya Citizen’s gossip-debate group. Mostly, really, it was a gossip group that tended to get out of hand. “We had Roekaar infiltrators, and as we experienced a few days ago, Evfra decided to use the forces he had immediately on hand—the aliens. The Roekaar were discovered by our esteemed Resistance Leader, and taken care of as he saw fit. He obviously knew he had to get them all at once, leaving no room for escape.” “These Roekaar are still Angara—” “No, they have abandoned us in favor of their hate and oppose the Resistance. They steal supplies, endanger our younglings, and are trying to instigate war with more aliens. We are trying to forge an alliance, not create more enemies.” She said, deliberately standing taller. “Are you saying you believe the Roekaar’s ways are Angara?” “No, not at all…” “Then you understand why this was needed. These aliens are helping, so far, and we need the continued help. They bring us new technology and bodies for the war. They help us grow as a people. Even now, they are with Evfra on a mission.” She didn’t disclose the mission details, of course. She couldn’t get people’s hopes up. “Are you questioning Evfra? Myself?” “No, no! We see clearly now, Paaran Shie.” As the Angara scurried away, Paaran Shie rubbed her forehead in irritation. Evfra was one of action, and rarely looked into the political aspects of protecting his people unless he deemed it needed. He was stubborn, and sometimes foolish about it. Letting the aliens go around Aya and capture Roekaar without a word to the citizens? He’d talked to the Resistance members, sent out a letter of explanation, but never once addressed the citizens. “Skutting foolish.” Paaran grumbled as she stalked to her office.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Nikita Ryder woke slowly. Everything was hazy, and she was oddly warm. Cozy. Wrapped in soft blankets. She could smell the fire burning. It was winter, cold. But still, she was warm. She turned her head into the comfortable chair she was in and took a deep inhale. Velvety musk, frozen trees, and a soft cinnamon scent. It took a moment for her to realize she wasn't a teenager in her mother's home. Her eyes flew open and she threw herself from her captor, her chest heaving as she struggled with her bindings. They'd tied her arms down! "Nikita Ryder." Evfra said, frowning her way. He stood, watching as she panicked with wide, unfocused eyes. He flared his bio-electricity. Her biotics jumped and flared in kind, grasping onto his energy almost painfully. She was terrified. "Nikita Ryder." He said again. Her blue-green eyes turned to him and he watched as pieces started to come together in her mind. She looked down at herself and used her biotics to peel the shirt off of herself...and then pull it back on with her hands out this time. She silently looked around before looking at him. "You're fucking stupid. You should have just left with that damned shuttle." She said, wincing from the pain in her legs, arm, and head. "Fuck." "And you are an idiot who needs to learn to fear death." Evfra returned, sitting down against the cave wall once more. "You've been unconscious for an hour. We have five more hours until extraction. Which means you will freeze to death without heat. Come and sit, the fire is not strong enough to keep you as warm as you need." Nikita didn't argue. She was in too much pain. She walked over and let him pull her down and to his side. She stared at the fire he'd made for a few minutes. "Why did you come back?"Evfra snorted. "I did not say you were allowed to throw your life away for my people, human." He said simply. She rolled her eyes. "I'm not stupid, fucker. Tell me why.""I do not know. I did it on instinct." Evfra said, calmly and without shame or regret. He knew it was because of the Ushior and what it meant for him."Don't give me that shit." Nick grumbled. "Fuck you." She was too tired to fight for an answer. "Did we get the captives?" She asked. "Enough. Sleep. I will give you the mission report after we get you medical attention." Evfra said. Nikita didn't respond. She closed her eyes and dreamt of a time when there was hot cocoa and warm fires. Her mother's smile and her father walking in late with gifts. The late christmas dinners from when she and Viveka were young. A time she called Alec daddy. Before her life turned into a nightmare. ----- Viveka woke again, and, again, found herself in Evfra's lap. His large arms surrounded her loosely, which she was grateful for after that last, panicked wake up. She groaned and brought her hand to the back of her head. She hadn't even realized he'd bandaged her. She looked up at him to see his icy blue eyes staring down at her. She frowned. "What?" He raised a brow.She raised one right back with a huff. "Why are you staring at me? It's fucking weird." "You are injured and in my care." He said with a soft snort. Nikita rolled her eyes. "I fucking hate this planet. It's too fucking cold." She grumbled, bringing up her omnitool and turning up the heat settings in her suit. It wouldn't help her head from being cold, but it'd keep her alive. "There, now the heat is on." She said, standing. She moved to the side and sat down beside him again. She didn't want to be cradled like a baby, damn it. "How much longer until pick up?"
SAM: Estimated time of arrival is four hours and twenty-two minutes, Nikita Ryder.
"Thanks Sam. Fuck my head hurts."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Nikita looked around--really looked around--for the first time since waking. The cave he'd brought her into was a bit on the smaller side, and there was a natural hot spring inside of it. Which explained why she wasn't freezing to death even with the fire. She knew she had a wound on the back of her head--the frozen bits of blood in her hair proved that. Her biotic implant was also hot and causing her to wince every so often from the pain throbbing from both the back of her head and her temples. Then there was her wounded arm. That sucked. She turned her eyes to Evfra, who was watching her with those stupid fucking eyes. Why did he have to be so god damned pretty? It pissed her off. "What?" She snapped, wanting to cross her arms. She knew that would hurt, though. She let her arm hang by her side and her legs stretch out in front of her as she leaned against the wall of the cave. Evfra sniffed and lifted his chin a bit. "You need more warmth. Your temperature is still dropping." He said matter-of-factly.
SAM(Nikita's Omnitool): General de Tershaav is correct, Nick. You have stalled it with the heating elements in your suit, but you will need to rely on his heat to survive the next few hours. Angara, especially those born on Voeld, are adapted to the cold weather.
There was a momentary pause.
SAM: The General will not harm you, Nikki.
Nikita immediately bristled. Sam had intentionally voiced her fears out to Evfra. "SAM, I'm not fucking afraid of-"
SAM: General de Tershaav will not hurt you.
SAM's voice was...insistent and soothing. Nikita's shoulders dropped slightly. Viveka was her twin, her other half, but SAM had been her best friend for years. It was no use arguing. "Fuck. Fine." She said, moving to stand. Instead, Evfra's arms scooped her up and deposited her between his legs. Her back to his chest, she huffed and stared at the fire. She'd stiffened as soon as he touched her. She knew he noticed, and wasn't saying anything. Tears started welling up in her eyes. She hated this.
SAM(Private): Nikki. It is going to be okay. The Angara are not like those that harmed you. They are, from my observations, more like the ones who saved you.
Yeah. They were. Evfra's eyes reminded her of the eyes of the Turian who saved her. She hated that. She hated that his eyes made her remember her rescue. She hated that he reminded her that there was once a girl screaming for help, fighting to survive against the brutality of the sex trade. She swallowed the lump in her throat before the room blurred with her tears. Her tears fell, but she barely made a sound as she hung her head and cried. Evfra didn't make a move to comfort her outside of a gentle brush of his fingers over her unwounded arm. She had hated seeing the prisoners in the Kett Base. What had happened to them? The children? Were they put through the same thing as she was? Did they leave the Milky Way's terrors only to walk right into the arms of the Kett who would do the same as the geth, batarians, and reapers? She brought her hands to her eyes. "Fuck." She sobbed out. Evfra didn't say anything. He offered his physical warmth, and the soft brush of his fingers, but that was all. He knew her trauma was not something he could fix, and his words meant nothing in comparison to his actions. He refrained from fully surrounding her with his arms. He knew the feeling. The feeling of being trapped in the past, in one's own skin, trapped by the air around them. Caged by the trauma of being captured. Of feeling helpless and weak. Getting stronger to cope. Letting anger fuel them so the fight could continue. Still, humans were emotionally walled off and bottled things far too much. He was sure these tears would help her in the long run. His eyes turned to the cave opening where snow was still falling. The snow never stopped falling on Voeld. It hadn't stopped in years. Much like himself. Much like this little human. The ice storm inside of them pushed forward, never ending. Creating a layer of protective ice around their fragile hearts. He had no qualms with understanding this, but he was Angaran. Not human. Humans hid from their own feelings with anger, humor, and a myriad of other ways. They didn't understand that pain was part of them as much as any other feeling, it seemed. Instead of facing those feelings head on they ran from them, stuffed their unwanted feelings aside and pretended it didn't exist until they couldn't.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The human's tears stopped and her shoulders stopped shaking. Now, now she was stiff. She didn't release bio-electricity, nor her biotics, so he couldn't quite grasp what she was feeling. He couldn't understand being human. His bioelectrical signals gave understanding to those around him of his feelings, despite his rough words and harsh tone. With her, it was strange. She did not hide her past, though she was lost in it. She always seemed at least mildly snippy--which, if he was honest, he enjoyed. People who held their own ground stubbornly had their firm beliefs and stuck to them. It spoke of loyalty to themselves, good or bad. His heart had told him to stand up for his people, unite the small factions of fighters into one resistance. To fight for a day they had no need of the resistance any longer. He had stubbornly held firm for years, and he was still doing so to this day. Now he ran a large army spread over several worlds. When the Angara returned to the stars after the initial hit of the scourge they'd found that there were five planets with Angara on them. The Angara from those worlds settled Aya as a communal hub. Most notably, most of the Angara on Aya in the beginning had been from Voeld. Voeld, which had been where the Kett first made contact, had also been the first place Kett attacked. Aya had been a closely guarded secret since. Angara, as a whole, took turns on Aya to limit traffic. It wouldn't do to have the Kett follow them. But now they had allies. Allies that saved the Moshae. Allies that were varied in species, and had strength in numbers. Allies that... He looked down at the small woman who sat between his legs. Allies that could experience Ushior. It was...astounding that he found someone to share this with. One that travelled through dark space to get there. His bio-electrics eased outward, gently touching her with an attempt to comfort her without startling her. Was she still sad? Angry? Uncomfortable? Was she lost in her strange human thoughts? Nikita waved a hand, swatting his hand away from her arm, where his fingers had been lightly brushing over her skin. She glared at him over her shoulder, her eyes red and puffy from her tears. "Stop it with the weird tingly shit." She growled out, even though he saw her muscles relax a bit. "Bio-electrics." He corrected with a bit of a gruff tone to his voice. "And it is not weird. You are the strange one." Nikita rolled her eyes. "Yeah, yeah, keep telling yourself that, big blue. Seriously, though, why the fuck are you doing that?" Evfra raised an eyebrow at her. She didn't know? Then again, she could really only feel his bio-electrics at this stage, not feel him yet. Not truly. She would have to use her biotics to do so, he's sure. "Our bodies naturally produce bio-electrical signals for short term communications, healing, and, as you know, attacking. You need healing, and heat." She wrinkled her nose at him. "So you're making me tingly to help me keep warm or some shit?" "..." He didn't respond. He let his eyes roam her face. The way she wrinkled her nose was...so Angaran. Her nose itself wasn't. Her eyes were too small. Her head was strangely shaped. She had that hair Jaal seemed to like. Her skin wasn't as...colorful as an Angara's, but strangely the tan tone fit. Her scars were various colors, not unlike his own. It was....odd. Strange, that this was the one to be his other half. "You're just going to fucking sit there and say nothing?" She snapped at him. Evfra rolled his eyes. "Yes, to keep you warm, you foolish girl. You are stubbornly avoiding bodily contact as much as possible, even as you struggle in the freezing cold. You almost died for my people. I am returning the favor by keeping you alive." He said with the tiniest bit of growl to his voice.
SAM(Nikita's Omni-tool): General de Tershaav, may I ask a question?
Evfra looked down at Nikita's omni-tool, feeling slightly strange to be addressed by the AI. "Fine."
SAM: My records indicate that your bio-electrical waves are indicating you are attempting to calm Nikita Ryder and comfort her, based on Jaal Ama Darav and Viveka Ryder's interactions. Should I update my database?
Evfra frowned at the omni-tool. "No. That will not be needed." He said before looking back up at Nikita. Her eyes had widened a bit...until his met her's. Then she narrowed them, her cheeks flushing. She quickly looked away, seemingly angry...but relaxed into his chest more.
SAM: Understood. Thank you, General de Tershaav.
Nikita grumbled out what...may have been a thank you, but he wasn't sure. He didn't move, simply kept his bio-electrics wrapped around her.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"Evfra! Evfra!" Jaal called out. "Sister!" Snow crunched beneath his and Cora's feet as they neared the navpoint given to them by SAM. Heckt had stayed with the shuttle, guarding it in case the Kett attacked. It had taken them a while to get all the survivors off the shuttles, procure a new one against the replacement head of the resistance, and make sure the wounded were cared for. Viveka had sustained an injury to her knee and had been taken to Lexi for treatment. Jaal didn't understand the exact details, but he knew that Viveka's knee wasn't broken, though it would keep her off the field for a few days. And cold wasn't good for humans. So Cora had agreed to go with him and Heckt to find Evfra and Nikita. Viveka was still unaware of Nikita's absence...and he hoped it would stay that way until he returned with her. "Look over there! A cave!" Cora said, pointing.
SAM(Cora's Omni-tool): Nikita Ryder and Evfra de Tershaav are inside, Lieutenant Harper.
"Thank you, Sam." Cora said. The two picked up the pace, rushing to the cave entrance. "Evfra! Nikita!" Jaal called inside. Evfra looked up, now holding Nikita wrapped as well as possible in his outer shirt and rofjiin. She was curled up as much as possible and his bio-electrics were flaring with worry as she made a chattering sound with her teeth. "Jaal. She needs heat." Evfra said and Jaal rushed over, removing his own rofjiin and placing it around Nikita. "Heckt! We found them! Our position!" Jaal called out through the comms. "Evfra. You must be freezing, you are only wearing armor." "Worry about the human, idiot. I will be fine." Cora rushed outside, waving down the shuttle. Soon, they were loaded up and strapped in. The heating elements in the shuttle didn't settle Nikita's shivering. "F-fuck...i-it-t-t-s...c-cold." Nikita was able to get out. Evfra held her tighter. "Radio ahead. Tell the needed personnel aboard the human ship to be ready." Evfra said. Jaal nodded. "I already have. The Tempest's medic is ready, and...also has an ion bed ready for you, should you need it." "No. Focus on the human." "I-I....h-have...a...n-n-name....ass." Nikita said as threateningly as she could with chattering teeth. She was so cold. Each shiver sent pain through her legs and arm. Evfra almost breathed a sigh of relief. If she was able to be snippy she was better than she was an hour ago. Her refusal to be held was so strong. He hadn't known she was nearing danger until SAM spoke up that he needed to hold her. She hadn't fought then. She just...shook. SAM had explained that this was a defense mechanism in humans against the cold. "So do I, you reckless thing." He said quietly to her. Cora was monitoring Nikita's vitals through SAM now. "She's in the safe zone for now, but we need to check her once we get to the Tempest." Nikita's face turned into Evfra's neck folds, breathing into them with her face there warmed up her face at least. She could feel the frozen blood in her hair melting. It was cold. So cold. Her head hurt. Her legs hurt. Everything hurt. She didn't want to be touched, but she knew, she had no fucking choice. So, she would make sure this damned angara was the best heater he could be. Evfra's cowl flushed a darker blue. Cora didn't notice, but Jaal did. Amusement tinged his bioelectricity under the worry and anxiety. Evfra would normally get annoyed at him, but right now he was angry that this human put herself at risk, worried his potential partner would die or become ill, and...a bit proud that his partner was so brave. Though she needed to learn dos ashaan. "Gosan yav daar." Evfra said to her. It was by far not the first time he'd called her that in the past few hours. "Sh-shut up-p." Nikita said. "I didn't catch that, what did you say to her?" Cora asked.
SAM(Cora Omnitool): Gosan yav daar roughly translates to 'cling to rock'. My understanding is it is the equivalent to calling someone 'as stubborn as a mule' in english, 'saki siame' in thessian, 'reth'shan' in batarian standard, 'gulogh' in krogan standard, 'tak'tal' in quarian khelish standa-
"That's enough, SAM, we didn't need that many language samples. Informative, though. Thank you." Cora said, cutting off the AI. "It would be nice to hear more after we see that sister and Evfra are well." Jaal said. "How is Viveka?"
SAM(Jaal Bio-tool): Vital signs show Viveka Ryder is well and she is currently asleep in the pathfinder's quarters. Dr. P'Terro has told me I may not reveal medical information without permission, however, she says that Viv will be sleeping for a few more hours due to medication so her knee may heal. She has been notified that you are returning from a rescue mission to retrieve two individuals who were reported to have survived the base, but were trapped in the cold. May I be further assistance?
"Send word to Do Xeel to send me reports and updates on my second in command's recent actions while I was away." Evfra said.
SAM(Jaal Bio-tool): Yes, General de Tershaav. Done. Do you wish me to monitor your second in command?
Evfra's head lifted and he raised a brow. "You are already in our systems?"
SAM(Jaal Bio-tool): No more than you have allowed, General de Tershaav. Communication relays, Jaal's bio-tool connection, and the news network that is freely available to those on Aya. However, I can gain access to your security systems with your approval.
Evfra thought about it, but an alien AI--even one that was connected to his to-be partner--having access to his people's security network was too risky. "No."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Eska Piraat was definitely getting on Evfra's nerves. During the flight back to Techiix he finally got in communication with Commander Do Xeel and, Nikita in his arms, began to work. Eska was immediately relieved of his post and demoted, and Anivos Do Mishkaav was set as Evfra's new second in command due to not only his questionable decision to not search for Evfra, but a series of orders Eska had sent out immediately. Havarl's Resistance forces were small because they did not have a lot of Kett bases, but Havarl's scientists still needed protection from the Roekaar. He had issued orders for them to pull out. Fortunately, Jaal's mothers were stationed there and had stalled for several hours before starting to prepare to leave Havarl. The override of orders from Anjik Do Xeel came through before they left. It took three hours to get to Techiix, and during that time Nikita had warmed up enough to stop shaking, but she didn't say anything. She didn't want to be fussed over and Evfra helping her was enough. Instead, she quietly let him keep her warm as he issued orders, every so often raising her arm to look at her omnitool. Sam and her conversed quietly within their private channel--one she'd become accustomed to over the years. His constant presence and reassurances helped her stay calm about being held by Evfra. After reaching Techiix, Evfra carried the small human, nestled close into his chest, to the Tempest. Viveka had been waiting in the medbay with Lexi. Nikita was set down on the bed next to her while Evfra took the ion bed on the opposite side of the room, stripping down to just his olasajiin to do so. Almost as soon as he laid in the bed he passed out. Viveka, happy to see her sister safe, eventually retired to her room with Jaal. It had been a very long couple of days. And...well, both of them needed the comfort. What they witnessed at the kett base was extremely triggering for her...and a new traumatic experience for Jaal. Right now, the two of them needed to feel the safety in each other's arms. --- Nikita parked her hover chair next to Evfra's ion bed, leaning back and bringing the legs up to relax. Her legs hurt, but were slathered in medigel and her arm was in a sling. In her lap was a tube of nutrient paste for Evfra. She held up her omnitool and slowly began to read. She started humming softly as she read, only to flinch when Lexi came up to attach an IV to her. "Just saline. Stay here until this bag is out." Lexi said, hooking the bag to a stand above Nikita. "Evfra's fine. His taon was overworked and needs a recharge, hence the ion bed and sun lamp." "I didn't fucking ask." Nick said, grumpily. "I didn't say you did." Lexi said, moving away from Nikita and around the other side of Evfra's ion bed. She was sending constant updates to the doctor on Aya for help, since the doctors at Techiix had their hands full with the survivors of the...exaltation facility. The reports of what Jaal and Viveka had seen was horrifying. They'd left their home to escape that kind of fate, only to walk right into it in another form. At least the Kett were organic and could be killed a lot easier than a bunch of robots--AI--that could survive without their bodies. Nikita wasn't going to let Evfra sit on this new knowledge alone after he'd...dealt with her stubbornness. Which was annoying. What was that stupid angara thinking, doing so much for her like that? He was such an idiot. She wanted to say fuck him and everything he stood for, but...he was also the leader of the resistance. Someone important to Viveka's cause. Nikita sighed. She looked down at her legs, visible now with her change of clothes. Her shorts showed the scars and the cybernetic muscle weaves. They shimmered like webs over her skin in some places, made even more obvious by the scar tissue--both from the cybernetic implant and the past. She had wondered if six hundred years in cryo would help the scars fade...but they hadn't. She held them with pride, yes, but they were still reminders no matter what she told herself. She looked over to Evfra, who's cowl was starting to glow that healthy blue, showing that his taon was working properly. She looked back at her omnitool and pretended to read. Her mind locked into the private channel between herself and Sam.
Nikita(Private): Sam, you got everything handled with the amp now?
Sam(Private): I have finished the proper updating to your biotic amp. I have also worked a pathway to your cybernetic implants so I may help you further. The cybernetics were less efficient than I believed them to be. I have upgraded their software.
Nikita(Private): Thanks, Sam. What's everyone up to?
Sam(Private): Viveka is currently resting in her room with Jaal. She had several nightmares, Jaal was able to calm her down. PeeBee is working on a project in the escape pod area. Vetra is taking stock on medigel after making sure Techiix had enough. Liam is playing an antique video game with Gil. Cora is in the biolab. Suvi and Kallo are on the bridge awaiting navpoints. The Moshae has taken to the crew quarters and using the sunlamps. She has refused to use the ion beds any longer, despite her being at risk.
"Sam, tell Suvi and Kallo to set course to Aya. I'm sure the Moshae will accept the use of the ion beds at home." Nikita said aloud. Evfra's snort next to her made her jump a little. "Not likely." His low voice said. He turned his head to look at her and she narrowed her eyes at him. "The Moshae is proud. She prefers not to use the ion beds at her age." Nikita moved her hover chair into an upright position, turning to the door. "You should read the reports Jaal and Viv wrote about the Kett base. It's disturbing." She said, taking the nutrient paste tube from her lap and almost shoving it onto him. He raised a brow as he held it, sitting up in the ion bed. "Explain." Evfra said, frowning at her in a way that reminded her of how Viv described him. Grumpy, grouchy, and untrusting, but reliable and loyal to his people. Before her sat the Leader of the Resistance. Nikita sighed. "Look, General, this isn't something you want boiled down to basics. You're going to want the first hand accounts, data found by our doctors, and what Jaal and Viveka witnessed." She said, her lips pressing together in a thin line. She'd seen the vids of the Geth putting humans on dragon's teeth. The husks that were made from them. She closed her eyes. "Viveka and I have experienced the same with our own people. You're going to want to let it sink in and fucking think about it. You're going to be fucking sad, angry, and most of all you will feel fucking guilty." She turned her eyes back to him. "I'm not going to pretend it's okay, but I'm not going to give you a little run down. It...won't be fair to you. Or your people. Eat. Read the report and the videos. Viv...the Pathfinder is not available for questioning, and neither is Jaal right now. If you need some quiet to think that isn't, you know, a damn med bay, I'll let you have the Tech Lab for a bit." Her eyes turned down to her lap. "Brace yourself, General. If you need to get some frustration out, talk to Drack. He'll spar with you in the cargo. I had them lower the Nomad to storage so there's more room." She paused. "I'm not fucking good at comfort and shit, but I'll listen if you want." She said, moving her hoverchair to leave the room. "I'll be in my room." Lexi looked over at Evfra, quietly watching. "She's right. You'll want to...take this in." She said softly, standing from her desk and taking her datapad. "I will be available through SAM should you need anything." Lexi said, walking out of the room and heading straight for Nikita. She had to make sure Nikita didn't take that IV out. At least for a little while longer. And with that Evfra was left alone. He took a deep inhale and his brows furrowed as he opened up his biotool. Soon after, Jaal's screams to not kill the angara echoed in his thoughts. The horror of the angara's change. The terrible ill feeling he felt when he thought of his wife...and his child. They'd been taken from him along with his mothers, brothers, and sisters. His escape from the slave camp...and how none of his family had been taken to the same camp. Were they subjected to such horrors? Nikita had been right. He was angry, sad, and guilt flooded him. How many of his own had he killed? As if leading them into their potential death wasn't enough, now he had found out that he'd practically been serving up his people on a silver platter for these monsters. Or, at least, for now it felt like it. He choked down the bile that began to rise and went through the reports. It...felt a little better, knowing that the angara's dna was completely changed. That they were no longer who they once were. But...still. Still, they had once been his people. Once been his family. He left the medbay and climbed the ladder up to the next floor where he entered Nikita's space without so much as a knock. Their eyes met only for a moment. Nikita was sitting up in her bed, her back and side pushed against the far wall. She pat the space next to her. There was a great sadness in both of them, and anger that raged like a storm. Evfra didn't question her intentions, striding over and taking a seat, his back to her. His bioelectricity crackled around his cowl, and she pat his back. They sat in the quiet room, not speaking. They both knew the other knew how it felt to lose their own. Her hand on his back kept him tied down to reality, and what he must do. What he must say to his people. What this meant for the angara. What this meant for him. He focused his rage, knowing that it could turn into a weakness as much it could a weapon. Still, under the rage, was a part of him that felt like it was breaking for his family anew. He didn't ask when he turned on her bed and lay down. She didn't push him away, simply placed a hand on his cowl and hummed some foreign human song. Despite saying she wasn't good at comforting others, she was a remarkably stable and sturdy presence for him at the moment. In a moment of weakness, his bioelectricity reached out and wrapped around her in some semblance of a hug, mimicking pressure around her like arms. Something happened then. Nikita's biotics swept over him in a soft wave, like a blanket of warmth. He felt it for the first time. Her feelings. Pain. Anger. Sadness. Guilt. Comfort. Worry. Of all the times to feel her for the first time, it would be now. When they both felt vulnerable and exposed. Angry and sad. He didn't close his eyes, and he focused on the skin weave cybernetics on her thigh, shimmering in the light. At times, the weave would seem to briefly flicker with electric signals that he could barely make out. Her body, with all the cybernetic implants, had a very frail electrical aura he hadn't noticed before. His eyes watched it, focusing on how it seemed to blend into his own after her biotics pulled away from him. It distracted him from the present troubles. The thought that, at some point, among the Kett was his wife and son. Perhaps killed by his own hand, or orders. The guilt of thousands of deaths weighed down on his shoulders, but for now he watched the frail bioelectrics pulse from her cybernetics. Listening to her hum an alien lullaby. Feeling a hand with too many fingers gently stroke his cowl.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It would take a couple days to reach Aya. Letting the realities of what the Kett had been doing sink in was difficult for Jaal and Evfra both. Wrapping their heads around the fact that their own could be changed so astronomically with just injections was....terrifying. Worrying. Infuriating. Evfra, of course, was the first to pull himself out of it. He spent his time up in the meeting area, planning. His first order of business was announcing that the Moshae was saved. Aya and all of the Angara alike were celebrating the news. It bolstered the troops, gave them hope. And soon he would announce what the kett did to their people. Until then, he would plan. He pulled up the holomap of Veold, sending out nav-points for Do Xeel to work with. At the same time he dealt with calls that came in, demanding his attention. He had cut off his comm network in order to do his work on Veold, now he had to catch up. Unlike Jaal, he didn't have the luxury of mourning the dead or wrapping his head around exaltation for long. He had to lead. "Shena. Spit it out." Evfra growled at the comms as Nikita passed by in her hoverchair. "I have found your man, but there is a little problem. Sloane has him." The accented voice said and Nikita stopped, looking over at what Evfra was doing. Talya was nestled in her lap making a happy trilling sound every so often. The Rylkor was bigger now, about the size of a house cat. "I don't care what you have to do. Get him." Evfra snapped. "I don't pay you to fail me, Shena." "Now, now. Don't you worry, I'm working on it. Oh-ho! Who do we have here?" Reyes asked, his eyes turning from Evfra to Nick on the vid com. Evfra turned to look at Nikita and grit his teeth. Nick smirked, preening at the attention. She turned her hoverchair, coming closer. "I'm too expensive for you, pretty boy." She all but purred. "Now, what do you mean you're working on it, Shena? Are you going to get us our man soon?" Her too-many fingers stroked her pet, causing the creature to let out a series of clicking sounds. "Ah, I do have expensive tastes. And it's Reyes, I've always hated codenames." The man winked at her and Evfra's bio electrics spiked. Normally, another angara would have seen or felt it, knowing it was a warning. Neither human did, however. "Just get him, Shena. I want him alive." Evfra snapped. Nick waved a hand over her shoulder at Evfra. "Calm down, big blue, he'll get him for us. Won't you, Reyes?" "Vehn Terev has been taken by the Outcasts. Sloane currently has him. This will make things a little complicated. Nothing I can't handle with some time, however. What is a beauty like you doing with Evfra?" Reyes asked, and Nick giggled. Evfra's lip curled into a snarl. "Oh, you know, just helping out. Sloane Kelly? Don't tell me she's the same Sloane that lead the uprising on the Nexus?" Nick pried, leaning forward with some interest as she rested her elbows on the table. She new very well it gave him a good view of her cleavage. Reyes's eyes definitely roamed over her shamelessly. "Yes, the very same. She's a ruthless tyrant on Kadara, my dear. Why, thinking of coming for a visit?" Evfra growled. "We do not have time for you two to be flirting, Shena. Get him to me soon." He said, cutting off the call. Nick smirked triumphantly. "Our exiles are on this...Kadara, then. I'll let sis know." Nick said, leaning back in her chair. "And a shameless flirt named Reyes there, starved for attention. He seems fun. Sleezy, but fun." She said, stretching her arms above her head. "What is...sleezy?" Evfra asked, still fuming over the show he'd just witnessed. "Someone cheap with low morals. He probably would be good for a night, but that's about it. Terrible man to get into a relationship with, great for a quick fuck." Nick said, unashamed. "Vehn Terev, huh? What'd the guy do? Shoot you or some shit?" Evfra growled. "He's a traitor that needs to be brought in for questioning." ---The Moshae waved for Viveka to come walk with her. "Pathfinder. I need your help." She said, Jaal hovering just in case the Moshae became weak. Or Viveka had another panic attack as she had during the nights. Or he fell into fear, as he had been since he'd seen what the Kett do. "I am ashamed to admit it, but I was not simply captured by the Kett. I was taken to them by one of our own, Vehn Terev. He was in contact with the Kett. He may know where the Archon is. Or last was. We must find him." She said, walking slowly with Viveka up to the meeting room, where Evfra had been in contact with the Resistance. "Vehn Terev, huh? What'd the guy do? Shoot you or some shit?" Nick's voice cut off the Moshae's conversation with Viveka suddenly. Evfra growled. "He's a traitor that needs to be brought in for questioning." The Moshae, Viveka, and Jaal took the final few steps up the ramp to the meeting room. "Evfra, you have news of Vehn Terev?" The older angaran asked. Evfra's bio electricity was all over the place. He was more than a little agitated, but it didn't bother the Moshae. Jaal, however, winced a little. "Yes. He is being held on Kadara, by the aliens." Evfra snipped, crossing his arms. Viveka cocked her head. "Kadara?" Evfra, Jaal, and Moshae all shared the same confused looks. Nikita smirked. "It seems our exiles made themselves at home." She said, pointing up to the unfamiliar planet holo. "Sloane Kelly is apparently a big ol' queen or some shit. I want to have a look. Always good to have a place to slum it up. Kick some ass, drink bad beer, make terrible choices." Viveka walked over to the holomap and frowned at the planet. "Our exiles established an outpost?" Viveka asked. Evfra snarled. "No. They took one of our trade ports. Kadara went from a place of trade to a den of thieves seemingly overnight." Viveka and Nikita both frowned at that. Viveka turned to Evfra. "These people have wronged you. I wish I could hold them accountable for their actions." She looked at back at the holo. "But there are too many. They've stolen from you something I can't give back, and I will do what I can to fix that. We came here not to take over a system, but attempt to peacefully establish a new home. These people weren't a part of the teams that were designated to find places to start outposts...they were just...." Viveka didn't know what to call them. It hurt her to really label them all as criminals. These people had been scared. They came here to find a home and found a wreck. Nick crossed her arms. "They were a bunch of people that didn't know what they were doing so turned to crime. They aren't part of the Initiative anymore, but I can't fucking blame them. I don't fucking like that they took your damn port though. We need to find away to get the angara back the port, Viv. I really can't believe that that bitch Tann is still in office after everything." Viveka sighed. "Nikkie, he's...he was never supposed to get that spot. He's trying his best, he's just..." "A racist greedy bastard who wants to bask in glory simply because he holds a title." Nick said, waving a hand. "I'm glad you're in charge, to be honest. That son of a bitch can go suck himself off if he's so self-entitled. Now, since we know we have people on Kadara, we should go in and help get Vehn Terev back from them." Viveka nodded. "And hopefully talk to them about a more peaceful situation." Evfra snorted at the prospect. Jaal sighed in agreement. "Darling one, Kadara is...well, the best way to put it is it is....." "Walking into a cage of wild, starving adhi would be better." Evfra grouched, still stinging from his eventual lover's flirtatious words with Shena of all people. "Before we discuss such a mission, we must discuss arrangements with Paraan about our alliance." "And once we form our official alliance, you will be free to place an outpost on Voeld." The Moshae said, walking over to the holomap and bringing up the map of Voeld. "If what you say is true and you can control the remnant, you should be able to quell the snow on Voeld. It will always be cold, as far as we know it has always been, but beneath the ice and snow is land and oceans." Evfra nodded. "My mothers used to talk of it. How the ice storm began to rage when they were children." The Moshae looked at Viveka. "I remember, if only vaguely, Voeld before the storm. Yevara song always on the wind. There were creatures there that have been lost to us, but the Yevara remain. Trapped beneath the ice." She mourned the world of the past, and it showed in her voice. She closed her eyes, remembering the hauntingly beautiful sound of Yevara. "You saved Havarl using the vault, from my understanding." She said, opening her eyes and looking at Viveka. Viveka nodded. "Yes, Moshae Sjefa. My sister should be able to do the same, once she recovers. Sam...is part of us. And he's who helps with the remnant. If it helps, we already got the vaults working on Veold and Havarl."
Sam: Correct. Nikita Ryder is also capable of interfacing with remnant technology.
Evfra hummed, turning his face to the holo of Voeld. "Then it is more efficient if we have two separate teams. Your ship, are there others like it?" Viveka brought up her omni-tool. "Vetra, think we can get ahold of another ship like the Tempest after Nick is good to go?" "Who the fuck said I'm going to leave my sister?" Nick snapped, her eyes darting between Evfra and Viveka.
Vetra: I can see what I can do, Ryder. It's a big ask. I'll talk to Kesh and see what I can do. The Tempest was the best of the pathfinder's ships. I can probably get Kesh to let go of the Krannt temporarily, though. Since the Krogan's aren't using it anytime soon. Sturdy. Turian-Salarian designed. Probably why they don't use it, honestly. I can have it fixed up for human use if I can get my talons on it. Because it was built for Krogan it'll have plenty space.
"Get it anyway you can. Have her renamed." Viveka looked up at Nick from her omnitool. "Name her Siren Song and get her painted black for Nick. Pathfinder out." Nikita's arms uncrossed at the name. "Siren Song?" She said in almost a whisper. "Viv...shit. Fine, but you fucking gotta prove to me you're gonna fucking take care of yourself out on the field, bitch." She snapped without much bite, pointing at her sister. Viveka smiled at Nikita. "Nikkie, I'm not the one who's in a wheelchair. Now, hurry up and heal so you can get that ship of yours." Viveka said, walking over to Nick and giving her a gentle hug. Nick grumbled under her breath, her eyes glossy. "You had to go and name her that, didn't you?" The Angara in the room looked at each other in confusion. As Viveka pulled away from Nick, she looked over at Jaal and smiled. "Before you ask, a Siren was a common mythical creature in folklore. Beautiful women who would lure men in with their beautiful voices. They were often depicted as half human, half marine animal. But, there was a flying equivalent, too. Either way, they lured men in to their death. Some considered them evil. Some say that they only were able to lure in despicable men with evil hearts. Nikkie and I, when we were younger, wanted to get a ship and travel together. Said we'd name her the Siren Song." Nikita laughed. "Instead, I started a band under the name for a little while." She reached out and took Viv's hand and the two smiled at each other. "You're such a fucking manipulative bitch." "Says the maneater." Viveka said with a laugh. Evfra sighed. "I will begin sorting through potential candidates for the...Siren Song. And...what is a...maneater?" He said, shaking his head. "It can be our first joint-team! Half angara, half initiative!" Viv said excitedly, ignoring his question and went straight into distraction mode. "Oh, we'll need ion beds and have the science team work on mass producing the angaran medigel Lexi came up with." "Oh. I didn't think about that. Angara wouldn't have medigel yet, fuck. That makes sense. And makes me even more pissed about the Kett." Nick said, bringing a hand up to bite her thumb nail. "Medigel?" The Moshae asked. Nikita brought the leg rest up on her hover chair, showing her legs in a better light. "Humans don't heal this fast, even with cybernetic implants like mine." She said, waving at them. "Can you tell I got surgery on my legs not long ago? If I was left to heal naturally I probably wouldn't have ever walked again. Medigel, or medical gel, is specifically created to treat the milky way species and heal them almost as if they were Krogan. Krogan don't usually need it." "Except when they get older like Drack. He's somewhere around 1500 years old now, so his healing isn't as great as it used to be." Viveka said. "If I was left untreated, I wouldn't be able to move my shoulder still." She said, flexing said arm that had been wounded during the rescue. "It's discovery was like a miracle. It changed so much during war." Evfra frowned at that, getting down on his knee and inspecting Nick's legs. "You said you had surgery not long ago?" He asked. "Yeah, pretty soon after I woke up. Couldn't walk, got mad and tore some muscles or something." She said with a shrug. "I don't fucking know the exact details, but I had to get cybernetic muscle weave and regularly had to get medigel slathered on my legs. It's not a fix-all, but it's cool if you have a cut or something. Hold on, lemme show ya." She pulled out a knife from a compartment of her hoverchair. Then a packet of medigel from another. Before anyone could stop her, Nick sliced open her hand. Red blood dripped to the floor as she showed off the wound. "Nikita!" Both Evfra and Viveka shouted. Evfra stood, reaching for her hand. Nikita pulled it away and opened the packet of medigel, pouring it onto the wound. The skin began to stitch itself back together...it was...unnerving. "Stars!" The Moshae said, covering her mouth with her hand, her eyes widening. Shock and awe buzzed in her bio-electricity. Evfra grasped Nick's wrist and brought it closer for inspection. "It's fine, Big Blue. It wasn't a deep cut. We humans just bleed a lot. Squishy species and all." Nikita said, flexing her hand. There wasn't even a scar. He turned her hand over, his eyes tracing the scars on her hand and up her arm. "Yeah, the shit doesn't make old scars go away." She said, snatching her hand from him. "So there's no hope of fixin' your face, sorry big guy." She said, giving his cheek a pat. His cowl flushed slightly and he turned his face away with a jerk. "Skutting brat." Evfra said with a slightly annoyed growl. Nikita grinned at the way he said it. The Voeld accent made his tone seem harsher, but she was getting used to it. "This is--Evfra this is amazing. It could turn the tide of battle on it's own!" Jaal said excitedly. He turned to Viveka and lifted her up, spinning with her a moment before setting her down. "You bring us so much! Darling, your people are brilliant!" He gave her a quick kiss on the lips. "Have you been using it? I have not seen you use it on the field." Viveka waved a hand. "You know how we wear undersuits? In it is teeny tiny plumbing. If you look hard enough, you can see the lines over the suit. The undersuit connects to a system of small medigel dispensers that line our spines in our hardsuits. With a push of a button you can release a little or a lot of medigel. With specific instructions by Sam, you can release it only where you need it. Of course, we have to be careful because you don't want to trap bullets or something else in your bodies, so you have to go through training courses on medigel use. Humans worry about that less than other species. Our bodies are extremely adaptive and we can live with bullets in stuff in our bodies, but other species can die of metal poisoning. Take the Salarians, they have more sensitivities than us humans and can die from metal poisoning. Turian bodies would, however, break down the bullet and use some of the metal as...a kind of nutrient to make more plating." The Moshae watched, walking over and carefully examining Nikita's hand. Then her legs. Then Nikita showed her that the arm in the sling actually was able to move with minor discomfort. She hummed. Evfra cupped his chin. "This alone makes this alliance worth the effort. And your doctor has concocted a recipe for Angara?" Viveka nodded. "With angara dna samples, medical files, and the medications your people sent in case of wounds or illness, she was able to. Not on her own, of course, Lexi's good at what she does, but she's not a genius or anything. She's been working with the scientists on Havarl. Your research outpost should be the first with medigel in a few days. We have the technology to mass produce it, but we need a place to do so. If you can make space in Techiix, we can send over a team of engineers, medical officers, and scientists to get it going." Evfra nodded. "Send me the necessary files, I will look them over first before sending them to Anjink. I'm sure the medical officers will be thrilled by this discovery. And it will give us even more of an advantage now that the Kett have taken a heavy loss." The Moshae smiled. "I had thought that you aliens would bring change, but this is extraordinary. To give us this...it is obvious that you wouldn't do so if you were going to attack our people." She looked down at Nick then. "You almost sacrificed your life to bring down the Kett base, and harmed yourself to show us this medigel." She looked to Viveka then. "And you saved me and rescued more of our own, sacrificing precious time to save more lives. You will be more than welcomed on Aya." Viveka absolutely beamed. She turned to Jaal and hugged him tight. "Hear that jelly bean? We don't have to worry anymore!" She said, looking up at him with stars in her eyes. Evfra rolled his eyes. "You already are." He grumbled. Jaal didn't pay him any mind, hugging Viveka tight. "Taoshay. My dear one, I would have followed you anywhere." Jaal said. Evfra and Nick both crossed their arms. "Purple prince charming, you know you just admitted to your General you would have ran off with your alien girlfriend?" Nick said. "Jaal Ama Darav..." Evfra started, scoldingly. The Moshae lay a hand on his shoulder and shook her head. "Jaal has found the one his heart sings for. Be happy for him." The Moshae said before looking at Jaal. "Though, I am disappointed in you, Jaal. You would leave your family?" Jaal looked sheepish. "I...would have stayed in contact. You know I love my family. Nothing about that will change. My mothers would have accepted Viveka, even if our people did not." He said, lifting Viveka into his arms again and kissing her cheek. She grinned wide and wrapped her arms around his neck. "Don't worry, Jaal. I would have left the Initiative completely and just joined the resistance!" Viveka said. Her biotics and his bioelectrics swirled around them in a way that made the Moshae sigh as she remembered her youth. "Romantic mushy stuff. Real cute couple. Blah blah." Nick said, waving her hand at them. "We should get back to planning our next moves." Evfra nodded in agreement.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Landing on Aya was more than just about the new aliens coming through again. It was a celebration. Angaran cameras were capturing Moshae Sjefa's return. Governor Paaran Shie waited for the older woman with open arms. The Ayan residents that were allowed in the area were crowding the streets, hoping for a glimpse of the Moshae and the heroes who rescued her. Cheers erupted as she came into view, her hand held up as a hello to all. Paaran elegantly stepped forward to hug the woman, as did several others. "She really knows how to fuckin' work a crowd, huh?" Nikita said to Viveka as they walked side by side. "Of course. She is the Moshae." Jaal said from the other side of Viveka. "She is wise, strong, and clear. She is one of the few that remember when the Kett came to us, speaking of peace." Viveka took Jaal's hand and pulled him closer, unbothered by the cameras that were now trained on 'the heroes.' She looked up at him with so much unfiltered affection on her face that the cameras focused in on them. Jaal Ama Darav was courting an alien! Nikita, more aware of what was going on, held her head high and stood using her biotics. "We are honored to have helped the Angara, but we are no heroes. We are soldiers who merely followed through with what needed to be done. Your war is our war, your losses ours. Like you, we of the Milky Way have experienced loss. We came here as mostly scientists and explorers. We came to find a new home, and we had planned for any first contact with natives to be peaceful. Our first contact was the Kett. Our people became divided, much like yours, as we struggled to survive in this new place. To find friends in the Angara means much to us all. We thank you all for the opportunity to prove ourselves. As allies, warriors, and friends." Nikita said, moving to wave a hand at Jaal and Viveka. "My sister, my twin, the Pathfinder Viveka Ryder. We could have never guessed it would take travelling for six hundred years to find the love of her life." She turned again to face the camera. "While we from the Milky Way are used to interspecies romance, we know that you are not. We understand if you are cautious about this pairing. However, I would think of their joined hearts as the symbol of our people coming together as one. We will help you drive the Kett back, take back your homes. May we step forward together and bring down the Kett!" There was a few cheers, and a few murmurs of caution. There was a few whispers of discontent, but the overall reaction was good. Nikita sat back down in her hover chair and Evfra came up behind her, placing a hand on the back of her chair. He was impressed at how she handled the media for her sister, who had been taken by surprise. The Pathfinder currently held a blush over her face and was smiling proudly at her sister, Jaal's arm wrapped around the human's shoulders. "The Moshae and I have watched the aliens. Seen their bravery of heart, and the honesty of their intentions. Like us, there are those who don't agree with this alliance. But, against all odds, I have been convinced. The Resistance and The alien's Initiative will begin talk of an alliance between our people and theirs. We have much to learn from each other. The Pathfinder's sister, Nikita Ryder, and I will form a cooperative team of military specialists. Governor Paaran Shie, myself, and the Moshae will head negotiations with the aliens." He said with authority. Paaran Shie and Moshae Sjefa, again, became the center of attention as Paaran gave a moving speech about unity, honor, and respect. After some questions--live on the news screens across Aya and to be sent to Resistance bases--the celebrations continued. The Moshae sat in the sun of Aya at the Tavetaan, surrounded by people who wished only to welcome her home. Students and admirers alike swarmed to her like flies to fresh Paripo. Jaal and Viveka sat at the bar, both embarrassed and answering questions from curious Angara. Some of the more private questions, Jaal and Viveka simply stated that humans did not speak so publicly about sexual relations with their partners. Jaal and Viveka did, however, demonstrate that the differences in their appearances was not an issue by sharing a kiss for the crowd. Their energies mingled together, causing murmurs about how Angara might be able to experience Ushior with these aliens, which was both exciting and terrifying. Some watched in wonder, thinking how the dating market just increased with these new aliens. Some watched in disgust, unable to see how Jaal found such a strange creature attractive. But the majority were simply happy to see Ushior happening. It gave them hope. Liam and Drack were both trying Angaran alcohol and...were mostly avoided due to Drack's impressively imposing look. Not that it bothered the two when a particularly brave angara came up to ask about Liam's hair or Drack's bone-decorated armor. Drack's tone was intimidating, but once angara realized he wasn't going to take a swing at them, they lingered about to learn about the Krogan and human. PeeBee had quickly had a drink and found Avela's collection of artifacts. Avela was very welcoming to the lover of remnant and, before the alcohol really hit PeeBee, had a discussion about the wonder that was the vaults. Vetra, always looking for a deal, was in the markets with Suvi. Suvi, of course, was curious about what would be edible or not and needed a little monitoring. Vetra's intervention stopped Suvi from licking a particular looking rock in one of the planters without thinking. This spurred a conversation with the Angara about Suvi's lick test and how humans could taste different types of metals and Turians could not. Lexi was able to access the medical wing and was immediately speaking to the doctors there. Sharing her sample of angaran medigel and gaining some full body scans as well as in-depth research on angara illnesses and cures. Kallo, not one to 'party' stayed put on the Tempest and ran diagnostics. He'd rather not be around for questioning about his species, especially not by anyone gill deep in drink. Gil had repairs to do and had to upgrade the shielding to better deal with Voeld's weather. Nikita and Cora, however, were more interested in the training grounds than celebrating. "I wish they'd let us take part." Cora said as the resistance recruits began their session. "One day." Nikita said, stretching her arms up over her head, watching as the angara shot at the Kett holograms. "That one's pretty fresh, isn't he? He hasn't hit any of them." "Yeah, seems that way. That one over there's doing pretty good though." Cora commented on a deep green angara who was going after the holos with single-minded focus. "Though he's not being defensive enough. He needs to learn to fall back a little and take a breath or he'll be out before a real battle's over." "Hey, Cora. What do you think Angara have going on down there?" Nikita asked. Cora choked--and so did the soldier guarding the door nearby. "Nikita Ryder, that's inappropriate!" Cora whispered harshly. Nick shrugged. "What? I'm curious. You can't say you fucking aren't." Cora flushed red. "I'm-I'm only curious for research! We shouldn't be talking about this!" Cora hissed, looking over her shoulder at the guard who was trying not to laugh. "Oh come on. You're embarrassed because someone can hear? Hey, you over there. What's your name?" Nikita asked, leaning back in her hover chair. "Estraad Ariint." The guard said, clearing his throat. "Alright, Estraad, you care that we're over here discussing potential fuck buddies?" Nick asked, winking at him. His cowl flushed. "Y-you mean...ah..." He cleared his throat. "Finding temporary pleasurable company with my people? No, it's...enlightening. Do all of you aliens have relations with each other?" "Not all of us, big guy. Some of us just like things a little more exciting." Nick said flirtatiously, tossing her hair a bit. "I like sampling what's available." Cora groaned and covered her face. "And some of us prefer more...stable relationships. Sometimes with other species. Even if we have to...research things before hand." She said, sighing. "I'm going to watch these guys fight now. Oh. Is that Evfra down there?" Nikita's eyes turned to the training grounds to see Evfra striding in, several soldiers following. The recruits began to clear the area, creating more of a sparring ring than a makeshift battle arena. All of them wore similar outfits--light armor in various shades that were strapped on with belts and buckles. Nikita hummed, looking over each of the angara before turning to Estraad. "Hey, Ester, are angara male genitals internal?" Estraad's cowl lit up with surprised sparks and flushed dark. "I-uh-yes. Until we are ready for pleasurable activities. A-and it's Estraad..." He said. Nick tapped her chin. "So, like Turian and Drell, then. I wonder how Angara hold up in bed." She turned her eyes back to the arena to see Evfra glaring up at them. She stuck her tongue out at him childishly and he growled, turning away and stalking into the sparring ring.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Evfra was in a mood. While he was usually very much a stressed, surly person...he was more agitated than normal. Especially for someone who just brought home their beloved Moshae. Of course, part of that was the announcement he would be making tomorrow. About how the Kett were religiously turning Angara into their own. Another part of it was the flirtatious habits of his supposed to-be partner. He had been warming up to her. Truly, he even had some respect for the woman. But she not only flirted with other men, but basically announced she wanted to 'sample' others. He pinned the first warrior and stood. "Review your training. It should not have taken so little for you to be defeated. Next!" Nikita watched from above with Cora. "Well, well. He really is something isn't he?" Nick asked, a finger tapping her cheek. Estraad's chest puffed out with pride. "Evfra de Tershaav is a proud member of the Heskaarl. Those who fight him one on one are shown exactly why Heskaarl are higher ranking warriors. Those who become regular sparring partners with a Heskaarl are considered for recruitment. Jaal Ama Darav's brother was a Heskaarl before he was taken. I have sparred with Evfra once. It was a learning experience as much as it was an honor." He said, holding his gun with pride. Cora nodded. "It makes sense, he is the leader of the Resistance. He needs to be a role model." "Work on your aim and speed. Next!" Evfra's voice called out. Nikita hummed, watching Evfra start another match. "He must have a lot of stamina." She said, cocking her head a bit. She watched as he moved quickly--his black light armor seemingly blurring as he moved. "Especially if he can keep that fuckin' speed up with all of them." Cora sighed and poked Nikita's shoulder. "You're just as bad as PeeBee sometimes." Nick shrugged. "What can I say? I'm a needy woman." She said, laughing. Evfra almost missed a grab when he heard her talk about his stamina--but he corrected himself immediately. Perhaps he should take her promiscuous ways and use them to his advantage? He turned and tossed down his competitor, letting him continue on instead of pinning him. A needy woman such a she needed a good lover to keep her interest. And he was no stranger to the bedroom, at least, and knew to experiment and watch for cues from all new partners. It was illogical of him to get jealous over a woman that he wasn't lovers with anyway, and she was a woman that needed a lot of freedom to do things on her own. For someone who had experienced being at the mercy of others, he knew that feeling. He grunted as he pinned another. "You leave yourself open. Focus on defense. Next!" --- Viveka grinned at Jaal as he laughed and pulled her closer to his side. The questions posed to them about their relationship had died down and now they were drinking tavuum with a few Angara. Both of them were thrilled to be able to be so open with their affection, and...well, drinking kept their minds away from the dark memories from the kett facility. It was in the middle of drinking that Jaal's bio-tool pinged and he opened it up. "Paavoa!" He said loudly, chorused by a few angara around them. Viveka giggled and leaned onto Jaal's shoulder. "Paavoa!" Viveka mimicked, looking at the angara on the call. The female smiled brightly back. "Paavoa, Pathfinder! Jaal, Jaal! Hurry and introduce us!" She said. Another poked her head in, and yet another. All seemed to be trying to get a glimpse. "Viv-e-ka, these are my mothers. My true mother, Sahuna Ama Darav. Mothers Draasik, Miistal, Kishka, Loaav, Heshii...Are the other mothers unavailable?" He asked them, looking around to see if any others were poking their heads in. "Yes, Traviina and Allivoa are on their way to Voeld. Your brothers and sisters have been calling, telling us you found your heart's song in this Viveka!" Sahuna said, smiling. "Tell me you will bring her home soon. Do humans eat paripo? Should I make something? Pickled afufa, perhaps? Or roasted challyrion?" "What of children, will you two have them?" Draasik asked. "Draasik, hush, they are new together. Jaal, send us recipes so Sahuna may cook for your Taoshay!" Miistal said. "Viveka, what is those on your head?" Kishka, who seemed to be the youngest mother, asked. "Oh, I know this! Jaal says all humans have this hey-er. It can be shaped and styled, comes in many textures and colors!" Sahuna said excitedly. Viveka blushed at all the attention. "I am told Paripo is safe for humans to eat, I don't know about the others. I-I will have my friend Lexi contact you about foods I can and can't eat...and I'll send some human recipes and ingredients." She looked at Jaal and leaned into him more before turning her eyes back to the many mothers he had. "Jaal and I...well, we don't know if...reproducing between us is possible. But...I'm sure many children have lost their parents. I'd be happy to take them in." Jaal beamed brightly. "Dearest one, we will have as many children you wish." He said, kissing her cheek. She hiccupped and put a hand over her lips, giggling. "Sorry. I've been drinking a little." She said, lifting up her cup of tavuum. "We're celebrating." "Oh! Is that safe for you? If so you must be able to safely have sweet pickled elmohk as well! And quilloa!" Sahuna said happily. "We will eat well when Jaal brings you to see us!" "Yes, and when will you be doing so, Jaal?" Loaav asked. "Have you two sung the song of the heart yet? Oh, do humans bond with more than one?" Jaal cleared his throat, his cowl flushed brightly. "N-no we have not." "Bond to more than one? Oh. You mean date more than one person? Some do, I don't! I...I'm happy with just Jaal." Viveka said, looking at Jaal. "Do Angara?" "Some. Not me, darling." He said, kissing her forehead. She grinned and slid into his lap. She turned to smile at his mothers. "We'll v-visit--" She blinked and held her head. "Woah. I'm getting...a little dizzy. This...this stuff is stronger than it tastes." She said before looking up at Jaal. "You're always so pretty." Jaal chuckled. "Mothers, I must take care of her. Isharay." "Isharay, Jaal!" They all said as he cut the call. He gently wrapped his arms around the small human, not resisting as she pulled him closer for a kiss. "Woohoo! Get'im Ryder!" Liam called out, causing Viveka to realize she was full on making out with her alien boyfriend--in public. She flushed red and covered her face. "Liam. Fuck over." Jaal said in a huff. "Fuck over? Oh! You mean fuck off! Nah, I'm fine where I am. You two should go find a room, though!" Liam laughed. Viveka closed her eyes. "Jelly bean...I need some water." She groaned. "And maybe...maybe some crackers or something."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Jaal chuckled as he stayed close to the wandering human. She was clearly drunk, his Taoshay, and very much enjoying this peaceful moment. She had danced from from one thing to another from the Tavetaan to the memorial garden. She had been telling him how everything brought her thoughts back to him. It made him happy to know she was entranced by him as he was of her. "Jelly beeeeean, it's so pretty!" She said, pointing at a purple flower. She grinned at him with that cute smile of hers that wrinkled the corners of her eyes just so. She stood and took the few steps over to him, flopping into his chest and nuzzling against him like a tamed adhi. "It's the same color as you. Sorta. Almosts." She said, bringing her hands up to pull him down for a kiss. He chuckled against her lips, wrapping his arms around her. "It is, dear one. Are you done wandering about and looking at flowers?" He asked, pressing his forehead to her's. He couldn't get over how adorable she was. Small, with those pretty blue eyes. How her voice softened when she was looking at him. How her little hands felt when she touched him. How her lips felt soft and sweet. How she blushed beautifully red over her cheeks and nose, unlike Angara who's main blush was in the cowl. He couldn't pinpoint one single thing that he loved most about her, but he could make a list miles long about the things that made him love her all the more. "Mmm....yeah. I wanna-wanna go home. Can we go home now? And cuddle?" She asked. "Of course, dearest." He said, scooping her up into his arms and cradling her against him. "Anything you wish." She beamed up at him and he rumbled happily in response. "I like it when you purr." She said, pressing her ear to his chest. "It makes me happy. Because you're happy. We're hap-happy. Don't ev-ever leave me okay? It's n-not allowed. I'll cry." "Taoshay. Where ever you go, whatever you do, take me with you. I will never leave you. Nothing will take me from your side." He said to her quietly. Except death. The unspoken words rang in both their minds, but they pushed it away. That had no place here. Not now. He carried her from the memorial gardens all the way to her--their-- room aboard the Tempest. They both lay in the comfort of her bed, and Viveka wrapped in his arms. "I love you." She whispered quietly as she drifted in and out of sleep. Jaal knew she didn't know she said it, but it made his heart soar. "I love you, too, Viveka." He whispered into her hair. "My heart song." Her unrestrained biotics mingled with his bioelectrics in an aurora of love, joy, comfort, and drunken sleepiness.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Evfra took pride in the fact that he beat every one of his competitors in battle. Especially right now. Even as he paced, arms crossed, giving his subordinates a scolding review on their battle techniques, he could feel her eyes on him. She was attracted to strong, dangerous men. Nikita and Cora had commented and talked throughout the sparring. Sometimes they spoke of his skill, other times they critiqued his competitors. And then there were the whispers from Nikita to Cora about how this or that was 'hot'. Now, the frustrating woman was watching him. Not approaching. But, for the first time, he honestly could say she was actually attracted to him. Not to angara in general, that was obvious. She was curious. And very casual with sexual encounters. But he, himself, had proven to be more than just the leader of the Resistance to her. He stopped and crossed his arms. "You have your new training regimens now. Partner up and spar!" Me shouted as he left the sparring ring. He moved to Toa, one of the trainers of his people, had her take over, and left the room. Unlike the humans, Angara didn't sweat. Instead they expelled excess heat out of the ridges of their cowl, but they certainly overheated easier than humans did. He rounded the hall and grabbed some cooling oil and rubbed it over his cowl, neck, and face. He then grabbed a tube of nutrient paste before heading up the ramp and to the balcony the humans were watching from. And, true to her nature, Nikita turned her hoverchair to look at him. "Hey, big blue!" She said as if she hadn't just been talking to Cora about how attractive Angara were. "Why'd you keep some of the fights going? You fuckin' had'em." Evfra raised a brow at her. "These sparring sessions are for me to evaluate my people, not simply to win." He said, though he had been rather frustrated at first and just...took the first few down. He'd been so angry about her flirting that he'd...simply called this sparring session to vent some heat. "I did not allow you here to critique my people. Come, I wish to discuss a chance at joint training." Cora looked up, excited. "We could bring our biotics to training. It'll be new to them. And Nick could even join in without an actual spar by attacking with her biotics from a distance." Nick scowled. "Fucking legs..." She muttered under her breath. She'd been excited for a moment at the thought of a good old fashioned spar, but the reminder he was stuck in a hoverchair was like a slap to the face. "Yeah. I could do that." Evfra waved for the two women to follow as he led them to his office. "General, Voeld command is requesting supplies." "Send them." Evfra said before sitting down at his desk. "Harper. It is my understanding that you are directly under the Pathfinder's command, correct?" Cora nodded and took a very militaristic stance. Hands behind her back, head held high, feet planted shoulder length apart. "Yes sir, I am." "Then you will need clearance from the Pathfinder before we discuss this. And you?" Evfra asked Nick. Cora nodded and walked off to find Viveka. "I am technically an independent soldier." She looked amused. "High command couldn't get me to sign some paperwork, but dad got me in anyway. I'm not even bound to the Initiative's directors, but I don't think they know that. I've only signed off as Viv's surrogate when she's ready to have kids." He leaned back in his chair a bit, crossing his arms. "Evfra. The Roekaar on Havarl are beginning to attack the research station--" "Send a squad to eliminate the active threat. Roekaar are not our allies and have thrown aside our morals. Roekaar that are not actively attacking are not to be harmed." Evfra said. Nick hummed. "It's probably the research station with our people since it's the Roekaar. They're the fucking assholes that say we don't belong right?" "Yes." Evfra said, his finger tapping on his bicep. "Viv is going to try to meet with their leader. Our people are to seek shelter upon seeing any Roekaar and not shoot unless it's life or death. Send news about how Roekaar are killing unarmed aliens. That will stir the hearts of people on Havarl and might get some of the Roekaar to think about what their orders are." Nick said, pulling up her omnitool and typing. "If your people have footage of my people hiding instead of fighting on Havarl that will have a bigger impact. Along with images of our people working on research side by side." Evfra nodded. "Your ideas are sound, but will make your people look weak. Like sleeping kaerkyn waiting to be shot." Nick waved a hand. "Jaal probably has footage of Viveka in battle. And your people know we helped to get the Moshae back. Make it a video on how instead of attacking aliens who could form a threat, the Roekaar attack like Kett--taking anyone. Even civilians." She brought up a video then, of various interactions of the crew and angara. "There it is. Here you go." With a swipe the file was sent to Evfra's biotool.
Sam(Omnitool): Nikita Ryder has sent you a file to view, General de Tershaav. It is my observations of the friendly interactions between our people.
Evfra opened his biotool and hummed. "I will send this and your ideas to our political team. I prefer to stay out of such things." He said. "Now, to business. You would be willing to join in on a training session?" "Obviously." She said, rolling her eyes. "I wouldn't be here if I wasn't interested in that." She propped her elbow on the arm of her chair and leaned her cheek on a hand. "Fucking sucks ass that I can't physically do it right now. I'd kill for a good spar." "No need for murder." He said, slightly amused. "I will do some light sparring with you--no bioelectrics or biotics other than to keep yourself stable on your legs. Light sparring, brat. I will not have you breaking yourself." He growled the last sentence and she grinned at him. "Awe, thanks for the offer big blue, I know you want to get your hands on me." She purred, winking at him. "But I don't do light sparring. I'll stick with throwing around your recruits with my biotics. You too, if you want." She said, smirking.
Sam(Omnitool): Warning. Combination of certain electrical, cyro, and pyro attacks with biotics may cause explosive damage. Further testing is required. All explosive devices will detonate if within certain biotic attacks. Bio-electrical long-ranged attacks have been proven to detonate in an explosion with Shockwave, Lance, and Singularity. Charge, Annihilation Field, and Nova will require Nikita to be in the center of blast range and should not be experimented with. My suggestion is for experimentation with Nikita: Pull, Throw, Shockwave, Lance, Singularity, Stasis, Warp, and Nikita's personal abilities Reave, Dark Channel, and Lash. Nikita Ryder has enough Biotic control to stop before serious injury to any specific person, however others may not. Please keep in mind to do trial testing in a large secure area.
"So we get to fucking make things explode before I can start!" Nick said, grinning ear to ear. "Fuck yes!" She clapped her hands together in a loud, single clap. "When can we do this? Holy shit, big blue, lets go make explosions! I'm so fucking pumped." He could feel it. Her biotics were flared, brushing against his skin in waves of excited joy. He sighed. He hated and loved that he could feel her excitement. "Tonight I will take you to our firing range and we will begin testing. Do not come inebriated. From what I've heard the other aliens are already doing so." He said, opening up his biotool. "Tomorrow we will be discussing our political and military alliance. I expect you and the Pathfinder to be there. With Jaal. Have you decided on recruits for the initiative half of your team?" "Not yet. I need to talk to Vetra about her sister. Sid could learn from Vetra and get things rolling supply wise on our end." Nick said, bringing up her omnitool. "We need to do some work to get the Krogans back into the fold, as well. Never hurts to have good ol' Krogans fucking things up on the field. I need a back up Biotic, so I'll be looking in to that. I think we should have both an Angara and an Initiative medic on hand just in case. I'll need someone for my PT so I'll ping Harry to see if he can send a few recommendations. If we can't get the ship, we can co-build a ship with the Angara." "The Krogan are on Elaaden. They've been both a blessing and a curse to the Angara there." Evfra said, shaking his head. "The Kett presence doesn't help, but the Krogan have made themselves useful, at the cost of leaving them to their private sanctuary. Very few outside their own are allowed entry." "Sounds like Krogan for sure. Though, I bet they left any existing Angara sites alone after they were able to get that land." Nick said, grabbing a ration bar from one of the compartments in her chair. "They always got the shit end of the stick with Salarians and Turians." "Yes. Your Leadership exiles it's own instead of teaching them. It is vile." He said. Nikita shrugged. "Yeah, well, Tann's a fucking asshat who will get what's coming to him. It'll be one hell of a show once his fucking bullshit blows up in his face." She said around the ration bar, not bothering to use her manners. "We will see. Let me know if we need to build or if we will be expected to pick up your ship."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Nikita was absolutely buzzing with energy she couldn't get out. She had stayed in Evfra's office while she waited for him to be 'done' with his duties. A report would come in, and he or one of his people would read it and make decisions. Time moved agonizingly slow. To distract herself, Nikita started some PT. Easy ones first. Arm stretches. Leg lifts without the help of her chair--which was painful. The nerves in her legs screamed every time she moved her legs under her own power. Still, she bit back any complaints and dealt with it slowly. Her continued until her legs shook with strain before she used her biotics to lower herself completely to the floor. Her legs straight in front of her, the cold floor felt more like fire burning at her skin.
It's going to take a hell of a lot more than a fire to keep me down.
Sam(Omnitool): Administering medigel. Please wait for the pain to subside, Nick.
"Like hell I will, Sam." She said, leaning forward and touching her toes once. She pulled back, breathing heavily from the searing pain. Luckily, that was fading.
Again.
She stretched forward, only for Angaran feet to come into view. She didn't stop until she touched her toes and when she pulled back, Evfra stood there scowling at her, his brows furrowed. ---
Sam(Omnitool): Administering medigel. Please wait for the pain to subside, Nick.
Evfra had noticed her stretching, but now he paused what he was doing to look directly at her. "Like hell I will, Sam." She said, and Evfra watched as she slowly reached forward. She touched her toes and pulled back, panting. He stood. The stubborn woman was going to hurt herself. Again. He felt a spike of anger and worry as he walked over to her. She paid him no mind until she had touched her toes once more. Then she looked up at him and had the audacity to smile. "Hey, big blue." She said before raising her arms up in a stretch that bowed her back. "Don't mind me, just gettin' some stretches in." "No." He said, leaning down and lifting her up. "Excuse the fuck outta me? What the fucking hell do you mean, no? You're not my boss." She snapped as he set her down in her chair. She poked him hard in the chest. "I don't have to listen to your shit when it comes to my own fucking body. Do you understand me?" "You will not harm yourself, brat." He said, fully standing and grabbing the back of her chair. He moved her to sit next to his seat at his desk before handing her a datapad. "A list of specialists. Look over their information and recommend the ones you feel are fit for the team. I am filing an official request to the pathfinder on the fittings of the new ship." "I'm not going to fucking hurt myself." She grumbled, but took the datapad anyway. "Hmm...No to that one. He's too green." She muttered. "I want to see how good this guy actually is with a gun before agreeing to that one. Wait. Approved?" She turned to Evfra, bristling. "You are nominating yourself as part of the crew?" "I will be overseeing the crew to be sure the cooperation between our two factions will work smoothly. I will be integrating my command center into the ship and make in person checks on the Angara planets. I don't see how my presence is an issue." He said, not looking at her as he continued his work. "Fiira An Doav, send a team to assist on Voeld. They have found another slave camp." "You're making my new ship your office? Fucking really? Don't you have anyone else to fucking fly you around?" "Heckt will be assigned to your ship as a flight specialist. He is my usual pilot. I want to keep my eyes on operations and see your leadership skills don't include you sacrificing yourself." Evfra said as he read another datapad. "My peoples lives depend on me being able to be efficient at my job. My new second in command isn't fully capable of making so many decisions in a day, so I will need to make the majority of decisions while I also send approval of her's." "God fucking damn it. Just fucking remember, my ship, my fucking rules." Nick said, annoyed. "If I decide your stop waits, it fucking waits." "My in person visits to my people can be put on hold for important missions. I am just inspecting the leadership and defenses." He looked at her now, the ever present scowl on his face. "Is there any thing else? Or can I get back to work?" "You've been working this entire time, you ass." She said, jabbing his arm with her finger. "You can fucking talk and work at the same time." Evfra rolled his eyes. "You're going to give me a head-splitter." He grumbled. "Yeah, yeah. Fuck you, too. You're still not going to be calling the shots, de Turd-head." She jabbed his arm again. "Tershaav, you foul mouthed brat." He said, swatting her hand away from his arm. "Look over your potential crew list, pest." "You're such a fucking dick." She snapped, glaring at him for a second before turning her eyes back to the datapad. "And I can fucking work while having conversation too." "And you are very confident for someone who nearly died on the last mission." Evfra said, approving a supply restock. "Do I have to remind you?" "What the fuck ever, big blue. I don't give a shit. I did my job and I made sure everyone got the fuck out before the bombs went off." "Except yourself." He growled, turning his eyes to her. "And that is exactly my point. You will not do that again." "I will do whatever the fuck I want, big blue. What are you going to fucking do about it? Yell at me? Oh no. I'm so scared." "Your reckless self endangerment is intolerable. I will not have it. You will not do so again!" He barked loudly. It was then that he noticed several of his people looking at them, shocked. "What are you staring at? You have work to do!" The angara all turned back to their screens and orders began being sent out once more. Evfra turned back to Nick, his cowl sparking with his withheld bio-electrics. "You are a soldier and leader. Act like it. You are not the last line of defense, you are not the shield. You are the bullet that fires first. The one to guide the others into place. You. Are. Not. Expendable." Nikita's brows raised at him before her eyes narrowed. "A leader is the protector of their people. I am a soldier. I am the sword and the shield. I am what stands between my people and the enemy." She lifted her chin. "I am the first one in and the last one out. I don't sacrifice people, I train them to be able to take care of themselves without me in the end." She reached out and grabbed the collar of his clothes, pulling him down to her eye level. "I am the first to kill and the first killed. A squad leader isn't the same as your fucking job, you got me? I'm not the fucking Pathfinder. I'm not a fucking Initiative leader. I. Am. A. Squad. Leader. Don't fuck with me, Evfra de Tershaav. I will bring hell down upon you if you act like this on my ship. Do not question how I fucking do my job. Sit back and watch me fucking kick ass, because that is exactly what I was fucking born to do. Got it?" Evfra growled low in his throat. He wasn't sure what was so attractive about her--especially in this situation--but he was as angry as he was turned on. "We will see, brat. Now stop being a distraction so I can get my work done." He grabbed her hand, prying it off of his clothes. He knew she was right--but that didn't make him okay with it. He turned back to his datapads and snapped replies to questions as they were sent his way by his team. He couldn't wait to get out there and test her biotics with his bio-electrics. His blood was racing as he felt as if she'd somehow lit a fire within him. It shouldn't be surprising. Every time he looked into her eyes he couldn't help but feel like she was like a never ending wall of fire. A wildfire out of control, burning everything it touched. And he, like Voeld, was frozen solid. It came to mind that Voeld's temperatures were stabilizing now, but he shoved those thoughts aside. He pressed his lips together in a thin line. Seducing her would mean lowering his barriers...at least a little. If he did go through with this he could be engulfed in her flames, burning as she did. Unless he turned the tides and dowsed her fire. But could either of them function like that? She used that fire to fight the kett and her past. He used his ice to guard his heart against the weight of the lives he held in his hands. He lifted his head and looked over at her. She'd pulled her hair from the bun. It flowed down her back in a cascade of inky black waves. Her mouth moved as she read--not reading the datapad out loud, but something else. Her finger tapped in a rhythm against the hover chair. Ah...she was mouthing words to a song. She tensed and looked over at him. "What now? Am I still being fucking distracting oh blue one?" She snapped. He gave a soft snort and lifted his chin, looking down at her. "Brat." "Dick."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Evfra grunted as his bio-tool pinged. "Speak." He answered. "General. Your shuttle is ready anytime you are." Answered a familiar voice. Heckt. "Hey pilot boy, make sure there's room for my chair." Nick said next to Evfra. A few heads turned but quickly looked back at their stations. The human was working with Evfra as if she belonged here. Even going so far as to give him attitude. And Evfra was...allowing it. "Is that the human? Human! It's good to hear you! I worried we hadn't gotten to you on time!" Heckt said. Nick snorted. "A fucking bump on the head and the cold isn't enough to keep me down, big guy." Nick said. "Have more faith in your esteemed leader. He wasn't about to let me fucking die, apparently." Nick said before sticking her tongue out at Evfra. "Keep that in your mouth unless you intend on using it." Evfra growled at Nick before turning his eyes back to the call. "Heckt, we will be there soon. Make room for the chair." He cut the call immediately after. "Intend on using it? Big blue, was that an invitation?" Nick teased. Evfra glared, not saying anything. "Oh? No answer?" Evfra stood with a snort. "Come along, brat." He growled, trying not to think about that insinuation. He took long, swift strides toward the door. Apparently that phrase meant different things between humans and Angara. For Angara it was something to say about anything--including guns. Put it away or put it to use. He hadn't even thought of the sexual aspect that could have. He knew his cowl was flushed dark now, and he wasn't about to put up with her teasing right now. He had no intention of bedding her while she was wounded. Nikita, however, was snickering as she followed. "What? Can't take a little flirting, big blue?" She asked as they left the building. She wasn't expecting him to turn swiftly and lean over her, his hands firmly on the back of her chair. "You do not know enough about my species to be attempting to bed us, let alone me." He growled before pushing himself back up and continuing along. Nick blinked at his reaction. "Hey! What the fuck did you mean by that?" She asked, confused, upset, and...maybe a little turned on by that. "Don't you fucking ignore me, Evfra de Tershaav!" "Would you, for once, keep your mouth shut?" Evfra said over his shoulder. Now he was a bit amused. He'd gotten frustrated by her flirting--especially knowing she flirted with plenty others--but seeing her upset because of his choice of words? Amusing. Evfra hadn't exactly meant to say things the way he did. It was, technically, true. Not just because of his station. He was considered larger than other angara, let alone humans. From what he understood from reading, it would take a little...adjustment...on her end to...take him in. Skkut. Now he was blushing again. He picked up the pace a little, though he made sure that she kept up. He growled at Angara in their path, annoyance flowing through his bio-electrics in waves. They scrambled out of his way. No one wanted to deal with becoming the focus of Evfra's foul mood. When he reached the docks he waited for Nick to pull up beside him before leading her to his shuttle. "Come on, big blue. You can't seriously be all fucking grouchy just because of a little harmless flirting!" Nick said as she boarded the shuttle. "Stop being a drama queen, it's not like I was serious." That urked him more. "You flirt without considering the consequences of your actions?" He growled at her as he climbed on and shut the door. "Fuck, dude. Look at me! I'm not exactly in shape to get some." She said, waving at her legs. "I'm not going to fucking fuck anyone like this. Even if I wanted to, I'd have to fucking use my biotics. Where's the fun in concentrating on keeping myself out of pain instead of having a fucking orgasm? Jesus fucking Christ." Evfra took a deep breath, trying to remember that she was a whole other species. "Angara do not make light of such things. We feel. Deeply. Even temporary partners are people who mean something to us." Nikita raised an eyebrow. "So you're fucking upset I'm flirting because I'm not someone who means something to anyone here?" "No. I am upset because you do." He said, crossing his arms. "You are harming hearts." Nikita blinked. "Uh...you mean I've been breaking people's hearts by flirting and not following through? Then what was that comment about using my tongue about!?" "That was not flirting...or meant to be." He grumbled. "Put that gun away or make use of it. Put that hand away or make it useful. It is not...flirtatious...for us Angara." He said as Heckt started the engines, pretending not to listen in. "Oh. Well shit. Could've told me sooner." She said, crossing her arms. "I was having fun." "Flirting with me is fun?" "Of fucking course it is! You probably don't fucking get that kind of attention a lot, and you fucking glow every time your emotions spike! And your hood-thing gets all dark. It's fucking great!" Nick said, grinning at him as sparks flew from between the layers of his cowl...which was now darkening. He growled, running a hand over his face in his frustration and embarrassment. "How I react pleases you." "Hell yeah it does." Evfra sighed. Loudly. "If it saves my people from your insanity, so be it." "Wait, did you just fucking give me permission to flirt with you?" Nick asked. Evfra nodded. She blinked. "So I don't flirt with someone else and break their little hearts?" Evfra nodded again. "Awww, big blue, you're actually kinda a softie aren't ya?" "You are making no sense."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Heckt landed the shuttle on a dark plain covered in soot and lava rock. In the distance, Nick could see the rivers of lava. Despite Aya's beauty closer to the city, there was a reason the planet had limited resources. Most of the planet was settling from volcanos that had erupted sometime around when the scourge hit. The biggest volcano was on the opposite side of the planet as the resistance headquarters. Lava was still flowing--slowly--in streams around the planet, cooling into rock slowly over the years. The area was perfect for their experimentation with their powers. A wide area of flat land devoid of life and far from the city. It was hotter here, but far enough away from the lava that it was fine. Evfra followed her off the shuttle, rolling his shoulders. "AI. Repeat what you said earlier about bio-electrical and biotic powers." Evfra said.
Sam(Omnitool): Warning. Combination of certain electrical, cyro, and pyro attacks with biotics may cause explosive damage. Further testing is required. All explosive devices will detonate if within certain biotic attacks. Bio-electrical long-ranged attacks have been proven to detonate in an explosion with Shockwave, Lance, and Singularity. Charge, Annihilation Field, and Nova will require Nikita to be in the center of blast range and should not be experimented with. My suggestion is for experimentation with Nikita: Pull, Throw, Shockwave, Lance, Singularity, Stasis, Warp, and Nikita's personal abilities Reave, Dark Channel, and Lash. Nikita Ryder has enough Biotic control to stop before serious injury to any specific person, however others may not. Please keep in mind to do trial testing in a large secure area.
"Sam. Equip Profile One." Nikita said.
Sam(Omnitool): Profile loaded. Biotic channels synced to amp. Eezo nodes ready. Processing....Complete. Singularity, Shockwave, Lance, and Reave are available and ready.
"Profile?" Evfra asked. "Jaal mentioned hearing the Pathfinder load this profile." "Profiles help me and Viv focus on specific abilities or overall biotics. The less attacks loaded within the profile, the more it packs a punch." She said, looking over at Evfra. "But takes more out of us. Viveka likes using an overall biotic profile because, as humans, we have more stamina than most. We evolved to be endurance hunters. We can go at a slow rate over long distance without stopping. We could stalk prey until they were exhausted." She said, cracking her knuckles. "Unlike Turians who close in using speed and reach, we can outlast opponents because we're stubborn. I prefer to decimate an enemy before it comes to that. Like I said, I fucking love explosions." "So, back to your question, Sam has adjusted my biotic amp to use very specific moves." She said, throwing out a Singularity a ways away. "Singularity distorts mass and acts as a weak black hole. When combined with Shockwave..." She sent a shockwave out toward the Singularity. As soon as it hit, the two exploded and sent soot and rock flying. "You get a biotic explosion. Don't know the exact details, wasn't ever the best fucking student, I just know how to make it happen." She pulled her hairband from her wrist and held it in her teeth, bringing her long hair up and twisting it into a sloppy bun before securing it in place. Evfra lifted an arm as the rocks flew, watching for any that may hit them. Not that they could do much damage with their shields up. "Singularity is something I've witnessed you use before. Shockwave as well." He said before raising a hand. "Your Shockwave is similar to our Tide." He said, sending out a pulsing electrical wave that moved across the ground in a similar way. Instead of studying it Nikita's eyes sparked with glee as she threw out a fast Shockwave to intercept the Tide. The resulting clash didn't create an explosion, but what looked like a ball of sparking electricity. It flashed with lightening around it before it finally *did* explode in a brilliant flash of light. "Woah! Did you fucking see that!?" Nikita asked, pointing excitedly. "We made like-like a fucking mini thunderstorm and a flash bomb all at once! My eyes still have spots in them! That's fucking great!"
Sam: Nikita, please scan the area.
Nick grinned wide, opening her omnitool scanner and driving her hoverchair forward.
Sam: Nikita Ryder's descriptions are almost correct. These two attacks created an unstable mass of electricity. This would stun enemies within the area of attack before working like a flash grenade, causing temporary blindness, and loss of balance, as well as a sense of panic. Calculating....complete. There is a 92.9997 percent chance that this is specific to these attacks. And a 63.682 percent chance that it is also specific to your personal wavelengths. If so there is a 12.68994 percent chance that Viveka Ryder can also preform this move with Evfra de Tershaav, and a 29.4673 percent chance that she can with Jaal Ama Darav. More data is required to be certain.
Nikita looked over at Evfra. "Fuck yeah! Let's do it again!" She said, moving back over to his side. "Me first this time!" She said, shooting out a shockwave. Evfra threw a tide and the effect was the same, though this time both of them closed their eyes for the flash.
Sam: Please hold. Calculating...Processing....More data required. Please scan.
This repeated two more times before Sam finally concluded that this move was specific to Evfra and Nikita due to their unique wavelengths. This brought into question what else they could do. Singularity and Tide produced a basic biotic explosion. Tide hit with Lance caused an explosive electrical surge in the direction the lance was pointing. Then there was Reave and Nick paused. "I can't do Reave without a living target." She said, tapping her chin. "Reave does minimal damage over time while temporarily forcing the target unable to attack." Heckt pushed off the shuttle. "I volunteer." "Fuck no." She said, looking at Heckt. "It can eat through barriers and shields, I'm not fucking hitting you with it. You're a pilot!" Heckt crossed his arms. "I'm a resistance soldier before I am a flight specialist." Evfra sighed and brought up his kinetic shielding. He moved, not speaking until he was a good distance away. "Attack me." Nick whipped her head around. "Are you fucking insane?! I'm not throwing a Reave at you!" "Gosan yav daar! I am not a skutting recruit! Heckt knows how to help if things do not go well! Now attack me, brat!" Evfra snarled at her. "Or do I have to attack first for you to take this seriously?" Nikita scowled and stood, biotics surrounding her body. Her eyes glowed a dangerous blue-purple. "Fine." She said, turning and holding out a hand toward him. "Reave." The word came out without emotion, low and angry. Evfra didn't have the time to process her tone when he saw that his shields were dropping. Fast. Her hand turned and formed into a fist and he saw that she was gaining shield strength. He gasped when his shields dropped and pain surged through his chest cavity. It was like nothing he'd ever experienced before. It wasn't like an explosion, gunshot, anything of that sort. It was like an attack from the inside out. He struggled to stay standing, but he did. What felt like thirty minutes of pain was only seconds. He knew better than to try to use his bioelectricity to charge his barrier--an attack from within him? He could explode. Soon she was standing in front of him and the Reave ended. He instinctually growled at her, but she didn't back off. Instead, she punched him in the gut full force. "Next time you want me to fucking use a dangerous combat move on you, ask what the fuck it is." She snarled. "I'm not a recruit either, Evfra de Tershaav." Evfra growled, swinging his fist toward her gut in return. She took it straight on, not bothering to dodge...dropping her shields just before his hit. Evfra started in shock at the place she had been, and where she was now. On the ground, two feet away. She coughed and took a few gasping breaths. "Hah." She said, sitting up and wrapping herself in biotics once more. "Why the skutting stars would you drop your shields?!" Evfra growled as he stalked over, trying not to show that she'd likely left a bruise on him. "Doesn't feel good hurting a fucking ally does it?!" She snapped back. The two of them glared at each other for a moment. Evfra growled and she bared her teeth at him. "We are getting on the skutting shuttle. We are taking you to your medic." Evfra snarled as he stalked over. He lifted her up and walked over to her hoverchair, depositing her not-so-gently onto it. "Aww, feeling guilty? No fucking shit, ass hat. Don't fucking ask me to Reave you without full fucking gear again." Heckt watched the two for a moment, stunned at both of their behavior. He shook his head and slipped into the shuttle. "We will talk of it later." Evfra said. "Yeah, yeah, fuck you too."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"AI. Alert the asari doctor that she has a patient docking." Evfra said.
Sam(Omnitool): Of course, General de Tershaav.
"I'm not going." Nikita huffed, crossing her arms. "I'm fucking fine. It's just a fucking bruise." Evfra growled. "You will get yourself treated." "Blah blah blah. Whatever. I don't have to if I don't want to." Nikita said, lifting her nose. "And your growling won't make me do a damn thing. So shut up." She turned her head from him with a huff, and Evfra's bio-electricity sparked in the air. The shuttle landed and the door opened. Evfra didn't wait. He grabbed Nick and put her over one shoulder. Nick...had definitely not expected that. It took her a moment to register what the hell was going on. "Put me the fuck down! Do you hear me Evfra de Turd-head!? You fucking bastard! Put. Me. Down!" She yelled, her fists hitting his back and his cowl. He didn't flinch--but fuck that hurt. The cowl was one of their more sensitive zones, beneath the ridges. And down the spine. It was usually quite a pleasing experience when touched, but this woman was smashing her fists against it. He hissed and brought a hand up. Not wanting to hit her still injured legs, he hit her ass. And it was much softer than he anticipated. She yelped. "Did you just fucking spank me!? I'm going to murder you! I'm going to tear out your teeth one by one an-" "Nikita Ryder!" Lexi yelled as she came walking down the ramp. Shit. They were already there? Nick groaned and slumped in defeat. "I'm going to fucking get you back for this, big blue." She hissed between her teeth. "You can try." Evfra said. "I will put her in your medbay for treatment. She decided that a fist to the gut would be a nice way to teach me a lesson." "You're a fucking traitor." Nikita whispered. "I'm going to fucking beat the shit out of you when my legs heal, you just fucking wait." "Nick..." Lexi sighed, rubbing her forehead as she began to lead the way to the medbay. "I can't believe you and your sister. If it's not one thing it's another with you both. And don't think I'm forgetting your part in this, General. If you two decided to throw hands, then I'm assuming you got hit too. I'm contacting Doctor Olvek." "Hah!" Nick said. "Serves you right!" Evfra snorted. "I was going to get treated. Unlike you, I have no problem with this." "Fucking asshole! Let me gloat! I fucking--OW FUCK!" She was set down on a bed in the medbay abruptly, leaving her no time to prepare for the pain of her legs. "You some of a bitch. I'm going to rip your eyes out and feed them to--" "Nikita. Watch your mouth. He's one of the people we are discussing peace with." Lexi said. She sighed. "I apologize, General. Unfortunately, this one--" She waved at Nick. "--has always had a wild streak." Nikita bared her teeth and crossed her arms. "I'm not really going to fucking gouge out someone's eyes and feed them to a varren. There aren't even any varren cloned yet." Lexi sighed. "Nikita. We've talked about this. You know what's causing this behavior." She said, pinching her nose. "I'm not a therapist, but I--" "I know, I know. I need one but they're all on ice. I fucking get it. I'm traumatized blah blah. Sorry I'm soooo fucking messed up in the head that I threaten people for carting me off like a fucking sack of potatoes!" Nick snapped. "I'm not a fucking thing to be pushed around! I-" "You're not a thing. And you are right, Evfra shouldn't have lifted you like that, much less without your permission." Lexi said calmly. Evfra crossed his arms and huffed. "But he was genuinely trying to look after you by getting you here." Nikita pulled the zipper of her light armor down with a swift tug, shrugging it off of her upper half without shame. "It doesn't fucking matter. I'm here, just fucking patch me up." Evfra looked over at her. The defensive scars on her arms. The dotted scar around her neck. Her hands. There was a brand on her--on her right side--that had been cut into several times. Likely a slave marking that she attacked herself with a knife. The wound on her opposite side where she said she'd been skewered. Her hands gripped the edge of the bed as Lexi applied medigel to the bruise. His eyes moved back up to those strange bumps--breasts--bound in a strange garment. They were oddly untouched by scars. Looking back up at her face, he found her glaring at him. "You done fucking examining me like a piece of meat?" She snarled. "I get it, I've got a fuck ton of scars. You don't have to fucking stare so hard." "They are proof of your survival." He said simply. "And what does that idiom mean? Examining you like a piece of meat?" Nikita bit her tongue and turned her head away from him. "Never fucking mind." "Human nudity is considered sexual in nature and you shouldn't let your eyes linger." Lexi explained. "Nikita. Remember, cultural differences. Take a few deep breaths. Not everyone is sexualizing your body. Nor is everyone finding your scars--" "Shut up, Lexi. I get it. I want my chair." Nikita said, pulling her light armor back on and zipping it all the way up to her chin. "Heckt is bringing it." Evfra said. "You need a mind and soul healer?" "Ah--She needs a human specialist. Thank you, but each species mind works differently, and humans are...very variable." Lexi explained. "Nikita is highly sensitive and--" "Lexi. Shut. Up. I get it! I know! He knows! I'm fucking messed up! You don't have to fucking explain that to people! They can fucking see it!" Nick yelled, using her biotics to support herself as she got off the bed and headed to her room. "Fuck. I don't fucking need this shit. I'm out. Just leave the fucking chair by my door." Lexi winced. "And this is why I'm not a human therapist." Lexi said quietly. She looked at Evfra. "I hope this doesn't hurt the alliance. She's...still healing." Evfra nodded. He could understand that. He turned to leave, only to stop and take Nikita's hoverchair from Heckt and put it outside Nikita's room. Where he stood for a moment, listening to the sound of her instrument and the muffled sound of her singing. He did leave then, deciding he would apologize later when they both were less angry. He forgot for a moment--she was an alien. Her emotional outburst was not normal. Her hitting his back as he carried her wasn't just anger at being told what to do--but frustration at being controlled and touched when she didn't wish to be. She didn't say it outright--that she felt out of control and frustrated. She kept telling him to put her down. Skirted around the issue. To be sold and have her body used in that matter against her will? He sighed and turned around again, nearly halfway to his office. He walked back to the Tempest and to her room. He knocked.
Sam(Private): Evfra de Tershaav wishes to speak to you.
"Tell him to fuck off, Sam." Nick said as she stopped playing her guitar and glared at the door.
Sam: I do not think that I should tell the leader of our tentative new allies to 'fuck off'.
Sam's words carried a note of amusement. Nick snorted. "Fine, whatever, open the fucking door." The door unlocked and slid open with a faint hiss. Evfra stepped into her quarters and leaned against the frame of the door--just as he had done before. "I came to right my wrongs and apologize." He said, crossing his arms. He scowled as he spoke, but looked directly at her. "I am not someone who will bend to your stubbornness, but I allowed myself not to think about how to handle this appropriately. I did not take into account that you are human, not angara. I have...harmed you. And I am...sorry." Nick sat there for a moment, taking that all in. She stared at him for a while. "Wait." She held out a hand as she processed. Did that grumpy asshole just come back to apologize?
Sam(Private): He did. Scans indicate he is not deceiving you. His vocal tone also is consistent with feeling unsure or anxious. His bio-electrical signals are unstable. I conclude he does not apologize often, or your response matters to him.
Nick sighed. "Alright, big guy. I hear you. You didn't mean to upset me. Whatever. Just don't go picking me up and shit. I don't like to be touched, you know, unless I'm fucking or fighting. I...am sorry I threatened you. Though I'm still going to kick your ass when I'm back in fighting shape." Evfra gave a soft snort. "You can try, brat. Your hand to hand combat needs work." "Now you're just asking to get punched." Nikita said, giving him a grin. "You're such a dick." "I still don't understand why you humans use so many body parts as insults." He said. "And so many of them sexual." "Pffft. You haven't even heard half of them yet, big blue. Get used to it. Everyone has insults, we humans are just more creative with coming up with them. Douche-wagon." Nick said with a smirk. "I have no idea what either of those words mean." Evfra said. "And I'm not explaining a damn thing. Now go fuck off to that doctor of yours. Reave fucking hurts. Your organs might have some bruising, and I hit you pretty good right after. You'll want to get that taken care of." Evfra rolled his eyes and pushed away from the wall, turning to leave. "Your chair is by the door. Olvek will see to it I don't die from your puny human fist." He said, amused when the doors shut behind him and he heard her yell. "Fuck you!"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
About an hour later Drack pushed past a guard, growling as he entered the Resistance HQ and made his way to Evfra's office. Evfra looked up from his data pad and frowned at the Krogan. "What is it?" Drack walked over, turning his head to focus his better eye on the Angara. "You've been sniffin' around her a lot lately." He said gruffly. "What's your angle? You don't look like the type to be clingin' to no one." Evfra pinched his nose and let out an exasperated sigh. Great. Now the Krogan was going to gripe at him. He already had a head-splitter from getting worked up over the woman earlier. "My reasons are my own." He said, lowering his hand and glaring at the Krogan. "Don't mess with me and mine, Angara." Drack growled. "And she's one of mine." Evfra scowled. "She does not need your protection, Krogan." He said, standing. He rounded the table, standing tall and crossing his arms. He was very, very annoyed that this male was laying claim on his future mate. The one he shared Ushior with. "She does not belong to anyone." "I ain't sayin' she belongs to me, you pyjak. I'm sayin' she and the kid are krannt. They're Nakmor as far as I'm concerned." Drack said, pointing a finger at Evfra. "I heard about ya carrying her kickin' and screamin' on the docks. Learn your manners or stay away." "Is that a threat?" Evfra snarled. "It's a promise, pyjak. Your purple friend might be provin' to have a quad, but I don't take kindly to hearin' about people disrespectin' my own. Keep disrespectin' the girl and I'll tear you limb from limb." Drack's words rang true as he cracked the knuckles on his good hand. "But you got a quad, growlin' back at me like that. Don't mess it up with her, you hear me? And don't keep followin' her around unless you're gonna stick around. I'm not so old I can't take you out." Evfra bared his teeth at the Krogan, who laughed. "You ain't got the bite to get through a Krogan hide, Angara." He said before giving Evfra a couple heavy pats to his shoulder. The man didn't flinch, instead, his bio-electricity lashed out at the Krogan's hand. Drack didn't even seem to notice. "Don't push your luck. You're lucky I'm not young and hot-headed." He turned and began walking away, scratching at his hip. "Krogan don't usually give warnings, pyjak. We live for the fight. It's in our blood. Move it, angara. I'm tryin' to be on my best behavior for the kid, but if you point that gun at me, I'll bust your head open." Drack growled at a guard who was halfway to raising his gun. Evfra sighed. Why did she have to be an alien. "He seems dangerous." Tiirvan said to his right as Drack made his exit. "He's just looking after his family." Quoria said, her hands busy typing. "I heard from Jaal that the aliens have formed family bonds on the ship." Evfra rubbed his forehead. As much as he'd like to say otherwise, he had absolutely disrespected Nikita Ryder. The Krogan-Drack, he remembered-was acting as a protective parent should. "Evfra, did you truly carry th-" Tiirvan began. "It does not matter. Get back to work. I have already dealt with the situation." Evfra said, sitting back down in his chair. It's...been a long day. "I want more intel on the Roekaar activity on Havarl. And find out what happened to the medical shipments to Voeld! This isn't the time to be socializing!" --- PeeBee groaned as Liam helped her find her way back to the Tempest. "Serves you right for drinking so many of those Angaran drinks." He said with a laugh. "They tasted so goood. Just like juice! I cou-couldn't help it. An-and the alchy-alch-whatever was slow. But you sh-shoulda seen the shhh....stuff they had at-at the...the place." She said, her arms around his shoulders. "Ohhh~ do you have abs un-under there?" She asked, reaching down to lift his shirt and take a look. "Ni~ce." "You're wasted." Liam said, grinning. "I can't believe you kissed that Angara." "She wanted-wanted it! Asked, promise!" She said with a giggle. "B-besides. Didn't you notice? Th-the ladies have these nice big lips. Kis-kissable smooches. Not as-a-as soft as hooman lips though." "So, you like kissin' humans, huh?" Liam asked. "Yup! And Angara. And Asari. And Turians. N-never tried Quarian. Dr-drell are good kissers too, did ya know? An-and embrac-embrace Goddess, I can-ca-can't talk. Ugh. When are we gonna get more rem teeech?" PeeBee whined, leaning on Kosta. "I wanna explore m-more vaaaults." "I'll tell Viv, 'kay? Gotta sleep first." "Uuuugh. I hate sleep. Sleep is-is for losers. I wanna ge-get out there and esplore!" PeeBee said, raising a fist. "Mhm. Gonna get right on that. Steady. Hang on. Let's explore our way right back to the Tempest."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Suvi hummed with pleasure as she drank her tea. After everyone had come back to the Tempest things had quieted down. It was much more her speed than the celebrations that had been taking place. Still, it had been nice to get out and enjoy the market with Vetra. She'd even managed to get a few rock samples to examine. She smiled fondly at the memory of the bewildered look of the angara merchant when she'd asked if she could have a few rocks from the planters near by. He'd told her she was welcome to them, but had been so confused by her interest. Vetra, however, understood her fascination. The turian woman had even managed to talk one pilot into picking up a few samples from outside the city borders for her next time he left. She couldn't wait to see. Aya's volcanic eruptions had disturbed the earth, but would leave the land fertile and perfect for new growth. Of course, that wouldn't be for many years. The suave nature of Vetra was exciting to watch, she had a charisma that Suvi felt she lacked. Vetra seemed to have a gravitational pull to her, bringing in people by the dozens. It drew Suvi in like a moth to a flame, and she wasn't scared to admit that. She turned the cup slowly in her hands before taking another sip. She wished she had that kind of pull. Instead she was the awkward girl who licked rocks. Standing on the side lines, not understanding why this joke or that was funny. The girl who believed in a greater power, supposedly conflicting with her deep understanding of science. Of course she believed. Everything around them was woven together like a tapestry, connecting together in complex ways that she couldn't even fathom. The beauty of the universe just felt so magnificent. The masterpiece of an artist still at work. She looked out the window, staring at the marvels of Aya on it's own. In all the volcanic chaos, they sat in a paradise. The warm waterfalls of Aya and the lush greenery made for a peaceful scene. But, she knew beyond the horizon was flowing lava, charred earth, and ruins of what had once been cities. She ached, wishing she could get out there and bury her hands in the earth. Dig and see what she could find. What minerals were native to Aya? Was the volcanic rock the same as it was on Earth? What mysteries lie waiting, just begging to be discovered? Ah, but now wasn't the time for that. They could do those things after they settled in. She shifted her seat slightly as she put her cup aside, laying back and closing her eyes. Ryder had already started Prodromos up. And they had researchers on Havarl. Voeld would be getting an outpost, too. And maybe some of their people would be invited here to Aya. What a wonder. She thought back to going to geological surveys with her grandpapa. And how he taught her the different tastes that came from different sources. How he was so careful in his handling of stones, no matter what they were. How he could tell, just from a few rocks, if there had once been an ocean there. How he would laugh when she brought him river stones and ruffle her hair. The smallest stone could hold key information about the past. He'd have loved Andromeda. Her eyes popped open as she felt fabric drape over her. She looked up to see Vetra covering her with a blanket. "Sorry. Didn't mean to wake you." Vetra said, her mandibles fluttering. "I thought you might get cold if you sleep here." Suvi smiled. "Aye. Sometimes. Thank you, Vetra." Vetra ruffled her hair. "Yeah. Anything for you." She said before sauntering off. Kallo watched them from the corner of his eye with a smile. It was nice to see those two getting closer. "Suvi. Why don't you go lay down. We're fine here. I was thinking about grabbing a little nap myself." "Ah, what did you say? I'm sorry. Me mind was elsewhere just now." Kallo chuckled a bit at that. "Let's rest up. Don't want to drive half awake, and you humans need a lot of sleep." He said, standing. "Oh! Yes. We should." She said, standing. She held the blanket Vetra had laid over her tight to her chest and began walking, leaving behind her tea. Kallo shook his head and picked the cup up, following behind her.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viveka smiled at Paaran, the Moshae, and Evfra. "Thank you for allowing us this chance. I know it is difficult for you all to trust outsiders and so long as I live, I will fight to keep this alliance strong." Viveka said. "This means a great deal to us. The Initiative and all the respective races in it...and...well,..." Moshae Sjefa smiled. "And you as well. It was a brave thing, your people did, rescuing me and my people from behind Kett walls. Never before have we had such a victory." She said, reaching forward and placing a hand over Viveka's hand. "Your heart sings for Jaal, and his for you. I have no doubt that you will both fight to keep that." Cora nodded. "If I may, even without Jaal's involvement, we were always in the mind to try to negotiate peace with any native races that lived here. We didn't come here to take your homes from you, but build ourselves homes along side you." Evfra gave a soft, disbelieving snort at that. He crossed his arms. "And if you found we did not want you on our planets?" Nikita raised an eyebrow. "We try to find other planets in the system that you weren't using, keep trying for an alliance, and if everything has failed we fight. We came here knowing this might be a one-way trip for us. We might be the last of our kind. We get that. It fucking sucks, but that's the reality of it. In the end it's do or die. And I don't know about you, General, but I'm not keen on fucking dying. Let's just be glad neither of us have to add each other to the enemy list." Paaran Shie nodded. "It's understandable that your people would fight to survive. Every day we fight to do the same. The Kett is all the enemy either of us needs." Viveka smiled. "And now you have friends to fight along side you. I said this at the kett base, but I'll say it again. I don't want to lose any more to the Kett. Not one. Every one who dies, dozens are left in pain. Your people, and ours. You aren't alone in this anymore." --- Evfra absolutely hated having to make announcements. Usually, he would prefer to send news via messages. But, no. Not this time. If Kett intercept the broadcast, they would see that the Angara now have allies. Hopefully, this will help shake the foundations of their forces. He walked with purpose back to his office, immediately he was bombarded with decisions he had to make. And make them he would. For his people. His future. And, perhaps, one day he would feel better about the Ushior he shared with the infuriating human. He couldn't say that he didn't like knowing she was there. Nor could he deny he was going to attempt to win her over. But, he also knew the pain of loss and the devastation of losing his family. It made him fall back, get angry, want to lash out at her and force her existence to end. For him to have never felt her feelings. It didn't help that at the recordings she had been wrapped up in that tight skirt that showed off her hips. Or that low cut blouse that showed off her neck and collar bone. Red and black suited her. He'd wanted to see if her long hair felt as soft as it looked. See if her ass was truly as soft as he thought, or if he had just been imagining things. What of those bum-no-breasts? No. It didn't help at all that he was curious. Even if he longed to reach out with his bio-electrics and feel the touch of her emotions wrap around him. But he knew it would be painful to have this taken from him even now, before he had ever even truly started with her. He shook his head. He had to focus on the pockets of Kett on Voeld. They had dealt them a heavy blow, now was the time to strike fast and hard. He had no time to be thinking of seducing that alien. She was hard-headed and promiscuous. What little bits of his broken heart he had to give to her would be shattered. But the rage that he felt when she turned her attentions elsewhere was blinding. He pinched the bridge of his nose and breathed deeply. He had to make up his mind on what he would do. Her brash nature made her difficult to tolerate. She spewed insults left and right, but, skutt, he somehow found their little squabbles...dare he admit it? Enjoyable. She drove him to madness. Yet, there were also times he found her a soothing presence. Her voice when she sang was passionate, real. Not at all like some of the Angaran musicians that sang songs of the past just to sing them. Skutting woman. She was distracting him even without being here. His lip curled in annoyance and he went to work. His people needed him. --- "Director Tann." Viveka said with a smile at the holoscreen. "I have officially gained a formal alliance. I'm going to head to Voeld to start on an outpost as soon as we're done here in Aya. I'm sure you received a recording of the broadcast?" Jaal stood next to Viveka, and a little behind her. Looming over her like an over protective mother adhi. "Yes, yes. That is wonderful news. Tell me, Pathfinder, what can we expect on Voeld? What resources?" Tann asked. "Well, first and foremost, we will have drinkable water. We'll be looking to see if any of the sea life will be edible for our people, but there are some protected species that we must not touch. Yevara are sacred to the Angara. It's not the most hospitable planet, but we can introduce the water from Voeld to Eos and make it more habitable for everyone. I've also heard that we know where our Exiles went, as well as the Krogan." "Don't bother with them. They're no longer part of the initiative. Savages, the whole lot of them." Tann said dismissively. "Sir, they've created their own outposts. We're not going to be rid of them, befriending them and bringing them into this alliance will look better on you. After all, it wasn't your fault that someone made deals with the Krogan. You were trying to stop an uprising. Pulling them back into the fold and strengthening our cause with Krogan fighters...of course, that's if you approve. I wouldn't know what to do if the Exiles and Krogan took a planet viable for the Salarian people. We don't have the numbers to go against the Krogan. Much less them and the Exiles." She put a hand on her cheek, looking a bit lost. "Director, what do you think I should do?" Tann tapped his chin. What if... His mind thought of a Salarian outpost. With spawning pools and trading hubs. Research centers. If they could get it started and find the ark...well, Salarians could get started. They didn't have that many years, and he would like to begin a contract with the Peskae family. Being the Director meant he would be able to pull a few strings and get more Salarians thawed. But this also may mean losing Spender's background support. It wasn't like he couldn't find another pawn, though. "If you cause more tension, Pathfinder, I will see to it that the people know. I support the idea, but I will hold back on my official involvement until I see results." Viveka smiled brightly at him. "Oh, I knew you were a great leader, Director Tann! Of course! I will make sure we get things going immediately. Oh! My supplier sent in a request recently. I thought it would be a good idea to, you know, get that ship before...uh...any returns. You know, limited resources and all that." She said, biting her cheek. Gods, she hated this guy. But if she could get him to sign off on something like this... "With my sister as lead, we can definitely make sure that your orders are carried out efficiently. More outposts, more resources, and less of a headache for you." Tann nodded. "Yes. Sounds reasonable enough. I will authorize it immediately. Good to see we're of the same mind, Pathfinder. I want a full report next week." "Yes sir!" She said before quickly cutting the call. "Kesh. I hope you heard that." Ryder said, looking over at another holo-screen. "Good job, Ryder. It's playing dirty, but at least we can get some Krogan back on the Nexus. I'm glad you see the importance of us working together. I'll see to it that your sister's ship gets properly retrofitted. Knowing Tann, he'll attempt to shine up some nice furniture and try to hold it over your head that he went above and beyond or whatever. Keep those teeth sharp, Ryder. If we're going to get enough on Tann, we need you ready." "Can a salarian hold furniture over their head? They must be stronger than I thought. And humans sharpen their teeth?" Jaal asked. Viveka and Kesh laughed. "I'll let you explain to your boyfriend, Ryder. I'll talk to you later." Kesh said with a chuckle before getting off the call. --- Nikita bit back a yelp as she got back into her chair. Her legs felt stiff and ached, but what did she expect? She'd decided to move around far more than she should on the mission and yesterday. It was frustrating. And today she had sat in her chair, all dressed up, putting on her 'happy face' for the press. Of course, she hadn't missed the chance to tease Evfra when he first saw her in her pencil skirt and red silk blouse. She had even stood to ask him how she looked. The man had looked absolutely thrown off for a moment. But only for a moment. That broody man had simply said she looked fine. Fine. That man's cowl had turned a dark blue and he said she looked fine. Evfra de Turd-head could learn a thing or two about complimenting a lady. Unlike Evfra, Jaal had spouted poetry at Viveka. She'd dressed in a white off the shoulder shirt long sleeve maxi dress with Initiative blue trimming. Of course, nothing was ever complete without a hint of pink, so Viveka had pinned a pink silk rose to her chest. Of course, Viveka praised him plenty and had gently fixed the collar of his rofjiin, even if it didn't need it. They had seemed every bit the perfect pair. Nikita was glad her sister was happy. She was. Still, something ached inside her and she couldn't put a finger on it after seeing them like that. Jaal had described them perfectly, saying that he was sure he had searched for her in previous lives, lost and alone. And now, finally, he had his 'Taoshay'. It was sweet. It was cute. So them. And so very not her. No. She was all about the sweaty nights, tangled legs, and no names exchanged. Leaving them before sunrise and getting back to work. Her ideal man was one who fucked good and kept his mouth shut. That's why she liked Asari, really. They didn't take one night stands personally. Someone as stand offish as Evfra who obviously hadn't been laid in a bit. Then again, he was so...intense. What if he did take things like that seriously? Nikita huffed as she moved her hoverchair to the Tavetaan. Nothing like a good snack and drink wouldn't fix right up. It wasn't like she could train or have a good fuck right now anyway. Fuck Evfra and his fine. She had looked fucking amazing today.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Evfra sighed as the workload slowed for a bit. He'd sent out orders for supplies, attacks, defense, and scouting. Now he had to wait for the resulting reports. The door opened and and an Angara--Riffen he recalled--stuck his head in to speak to Variit. "What? What do you mean one of the aliens are going to sing?" Variit asked. "Skutt, I'm on duty, record it for me!" Evfra's brows shot up. Singing? He knew Nikita enjoyed singing. "Yes! The Pathfinder said that her sister was a singer, and that they were both trained in human dance! When the others were asking to watch, they asked Roaan if it was okay, and he agreed! The blue alien--Pibby?--she is getting the sister's musical instrument!" Evfra stood. "There is a commotion at the Tavetaan?" He asked. "No! No, no. Bara and several others asked to see!" Variit said. Evfra huffed and moved past the two, heading toward the Tavetaan to see for himself. Obviously, to make sure the aliens were behaving. --- "Alright, I can dance over here while you..." Viveka lifted Nick with her biotics, sitting her gently on the bar top. "That okay with you, Roaan?" Roaan laughed. "Of course! These are interesting times, getting to know you aliens!" "And you have a pretty lady sitting on your bar~" PeeBee said, handing Nick the Asari instrument she favored so much. Roaan laughed. "There is that!" He agreed. "I get why you like it, but I don't know why you don't use that keyboard in your room." PeeBee said, sitting on a stool and bringing her drink to her lips. "Maybe next time, Peebs." Nikita said, making sure her instrument was tuned. "Besides, I'm just fuckin' around. I'm not as good with that shit. Besides. This is more versatile." Viv grinned at Jaal, feeling the warmth of his affection and the sparking excitement. He was so, so supportive and sweet. Her hands moved on their own accord, cupping his cheeks and bringing him in for a sweet kiss. They couldn't help but let it linger, "Bleh, be mushy on your own time, Viv! Let's get this going~ Let's see...What should we sing? Something fun. Let's see. Fuck. There's a lot of idioms in a lot of our songs, or references to human shit. Just lettin' you guys know, anythin' we sing isn't reflective of true intentions or some shit. We have a lot of music for a lot of different reasons." Nick said. The Angara seemed to murmur among themselves. "What she's trying to say is we have songs for just about everything. Pain, loss, love, belonging, family, friends, enemies, revenge. We're a very creative race. We generally all look different, me and Nikki are a rare exception because we were born not only from the same pregnancy, what should have formed one child formed two. At some point, we were not two children, but one being." Viveka said, smiling. "But enough alien studies, let's choose a song guys!" "Let's see..." --- Evfra walked out of Headquarters and straight to the Tavetaan. He could already hear that instrument of her's. He picked up the pace. Not because he wanted to watch the entire thing, but to make sure he made sure they weren't causing too much trouble. Of course.
Don't try to make yourself remember, darling
Don't look for me; I'm just a story you've been told
He caught sight of her immediately. Her red shirt made it easy to see where she was, especially with her hair down like that. She hadn't changed from the attire she wore for the vids. Her hands worked the instrument and her eyes were closed. Her head was slightly tilted up, and there was a soft smile on her red lips as she sang.
So let's pretend a little longer
'Cause when we're gone, everything goes on
Well, you were staring at the window
And I said, "I'll just bring the sea to you"
His eyes darted to her sister, who was dancing, but they didn't linger long. They immediately moved back to Nikita, who's biotics were beginning to slither over her skin. She was bright and beautiful. He couldn't deny that. Her biotics lifted her hair a bit, as if it...she were floating.
But if I was gone tomorrow, won't the waves crash on?
Is it selfish that I'm happy as we pass the setting sun?
Someday I'll be overcast, but you won't have to cry
'Cause we'll do the grieving, while I'm by your side
Her eyes snapped open and she turned her head, smiling as she sang straight to her sister. Her sister, though, had eyes only for Jaal. Viveka's biotics were at work too, and she was floating above the ground, dancing in the air. But what interested him was the beautifully bittersweet and unobscured love that was in Nikita Ryder's eyes as she looked at her sister.
I said:
"Don't try to make yourself remember, darling
Don't look for me; I'm just a story you've been told"
So let's pretend a little longer
'Cause when we're gone, everything goes on
Her eyes closed, still singing as she turned back toward the audience. They opened and he saw the very moment she caught sight of him. Her eyes widened slightly, but she didn't falter in her singing. Her smile widened in amusement, then her lids lowered, wrinkles forming beside them; for a moment she looked so pleased to see him. His eyes stayed on her, despite her sister's biotics giving an almost otherworldly beauty to her dance. As if not to be out done, Nikita's biotics hummed to life, lifting her up and floating her over to Viveka. Their eyes met and they swirled in the air around each other, floating a little higher with each turn.
And I'm so scared of getting used to this
All the vines that keep you tethered in your room
You said, "I'm sorry that you worried," but don't apologize
I told you to forget me, but you stayed by my side when I said:
The twins separated and shot out over their audience. While Viveka's skirts fluttered and seemed to bounce around her innocently, Nick's hair flowed around her form seductively. The twin's paid no heed to the gasps of the Angara they were putting on a show for as they swam like Yevara in the air. One dancing, twirling, always returning to Jaal. The other, his human, kept out of reach of everyone.
"Don't try to make yourself remember, darling
Don't look for me; I'm just a story you've been told"
So let's pretend a little longer
And when we're gone, oh~
Everything goes on
Evfra crossed his arms, raising an eye ridge as she floated over to him, flipping herself upside down. She grinned at him in a way that struck him as the most beautiful smile she'd ever had. She loved this. Preforming. Singing. "Hey big blue." She said giving him a wink. She flipped right side up and floated over to her chair. "Hope you all enjoyed the show!" She said, waving at the Angara, who were all praising the twins. Evfra had realized...while she had been so close, he hadn't heard them. The crowd. Her biotics had been screaming that she'd missed this. Loved this. Lived for this.
And he'd gotten so lost in that feeling, the pure joy within her in that short moment. It was...such a stark contrast to the first feelings he'd felt from her. Beautiful. She'd felt whole and so wonderfully where she belonged that it...it was like he'd tasted something that was so deeply her for the first time. Was this what Jaal felt with his human? Like he was just seeing her for the first time? Like she shone more brightly than any star when she was happy?
He felt words clawing at his throat, desperate for him to say them. Di taosa toh. It whispered in his ears. The words he didn't want to say. Thought he would never say to another since his wife and first litter were taken from him. He swallowed as he watched her happily agree to play another song while her sister declined to do another dance.
He couldn't stay here.
But his feet wouldn't move. They stayed in place as if he had taken root. He watched, his throat dry and heart being squeezed.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Nikita hummed. "Let's try something a little different. It's full of idioms and other shit, sorry not sorry. You fuckin' literally asked me to sing." She said, smiling at everyone. "Thanks for lettin' me sing, guys. This is real fuckin' fun."
Nikita(Private): I'm gonna need some background instruments this time, SAM.
Sam(Private): Yes, Nick. Starting music.
Nick's Omnitool flashed open and began playing music. She closed her eyes as she got into the beat, her fingers moving over the strings, but the instrument sounding so very different from the previous song.
High dive into frozen waves where the past comes back to life
Fight fear for the selfish pain, it was worth it every time
Hold still right before we crash 'cause we both know how this ends
A clock ticks 'til it breaks your glass and I drown in you again
Nikita's voice was soft, her mind wandering what it would feel like to have someone you were so addicted to. That you couldn't help but reach for, knowing that it would only end in pain every time. She hadn't stuck around long enough to find out. That was Viv's thing, to try to settle down and have a family. Not her's. Never her's.
'Cause you are the piece of me I wish I didn't need
Chasing relentlessly, still fight and I don't know why
If our love is tragedy, why are you my remedy? If our love's insanity, why are you my clarity? She opened her eyes, looking up at Aya's gorgeous sky before they drifted back down...only to land on Evfra de Tershaav. He was still just standing there, watching. His brows were slightly drawn, but much less than usual. His usual scowl was only a small frown. He almost looked confused. He was probably trying to understand the song.
You'd think by now
That I would have learned
Not to play with fire if I don't wanna get burned
But I'm a pyromaniac
And your veins are full of gas you're burning higher, higher!
Her biotics emphasized her words by flaring out and up, surrounding her in more and more color for a few seconds. God it felt so fucking good to sing for a crowd again. She could feel her hair starting to stick to her as she started to sweat a little. Getting into the music always felt amazing. Knowing she had an audience to her singing was such a thrill. This. This was better than anything else. It was what she was born to do. Her only true love in life was this. Music.
I'm storming this wildfire
It took a moment to realize Evfra's eyes were different than before. The color was there, but there was something else. What was that? There was something there. A flicker of something that had been sparked and...she wasn't sure she understood what she was seeing. So, she closed her eyes again, singing more.
If our love is tragedy, why are you my remedy?
If our love's insanity, why are you my clarity?
Wildfire Wildfire Wildfire Wildfire
Evfra knew now. He was more than certain. He had to have her. He had to feel her emotions on his skin, had to feel her lips with his, make her heart sing for him. This wasn't something he could turn away from, it would only continue to drive him to madness. He couldn't. He felt insane, foolish for wanting her so deeply. It wasn't like he was Jaal. His heart hadn't stirred for anyone in a long time, he'd thought himself incapable. He had to accept that he felt this way. He had to accept that she currently did not. She ran from her feelings, stamped them down in anger, only holding her sister close to her heart. She was open with her words, but not honest with herself or...wasn't ready to be. Her past marked her body, and still bit down on her throat.
Walk on through a red parade and refuse to make amends
It cuts deep through our ground and makes us forget all common sense
Don't speak as I try to leave 'cause we both know what we'll choose
If you pull then I'll push too deep and I'll fall right back to you
'Cause you are the piece of me I wish I didn't need
Chasing relentlessly, still fight and I don't know why
The lyrics of the song...made him feel much. So much. It felt like he was going to be chasing this woman, watching as she ran from him again and again. Their story would not be so quick and easy as Jaal and Viveka's. Their story would be a battle, a war of the heart. And he knew how to fight a war. He lifted his chin. He would win this one battle at a time.
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It was a few days later and Nikita was fitted with leg braces that scientists from the Initiative and Angara alike had collaborated together to make. With the combined technology, Nikita was walking again. The white and silver metals around her legs stood out from the black and red of her light armor, but she didn't care. Her long braid swayed behind her as she walked the streets of Aya. She took a deep breath of the fresh air in the Memorial Gardens, stopping at memorials to give the lost her attention. The Angara there thanked her for paying respects to their dead. It during that time that she learned Angara believed in reincarnation. So, she silently prayed those who were lost would be reborn into happier times. That their lives would not be cut short by war. She tried not to fall into her habit of cursing with every breath here, where the dead were mourned. She continued on her way, nodding to those who recognized her from her singing a few days ago. She even gave Roaan a smile and waved. Today was a fantastic fucking day. She strode into the Resistance Headquarters, winking at an Angara who looked at her a little longer than normal as she continued to Evfra's office. Evfra looked over the plans for his station in the Siren Song, making sure that he had everything he needed. His main console would he installed based on the specifics he sent back to the Angara on the Nexus that were helping with the ship. "What is it now?" He asked gruffly without looking up. "Hey grumpy." Nikita said, causing him to look up. She did a little spin and smirked at him as she put her hands on her hips. "Got myself some upgrades!" She said, waving at her leg braces. "Fuckin' awesome, right? How do I look, big blue?" Evfra rolled his eyes at her strange antics. "Like an alien." He said, looking back down at the plans. "Is that all? I do not have time to, what is it you humans say? Ah. Stroke your ego." Nikita rolled her eyes at him and walked over, looking down at the plans. "This set up is fucking inefficient with the screens behind you if you need to use the damn console. Turn the fucking console around, face the screens. You're not going to have as many helpers on my ship." She said, bringing up her omni-tool and revamping the plans. "That way you can fucking send orders looking at the information in front of you. You can make use of the space behind you as a bedroom so you don't have to worry about lack of fucking sleep while you work. We can put you up on the third level like the meeting room is on the Tempest, so you have privacy but you can watch the rest of us." She said, sending the redone plans to his bio-tool. "*Now* do you have fucking time to give me some proper praise?" Evfra sighed, rubbing his temples. "You egotistical brat." He said before looking directly at her. "You look fine. There." Nikita huffed and crossed her arms. "You're such a fucking asshole, big blue." She turned and looked over at a soldier. "Hey, sweet thing-" "*Brat*, stop flirting with my men." Evfra growled at her. "Ohhh, and what are you fucking going to do if I don't listen, Evfra de Turd-head? Spank me?" Nikita asked, walking over to the soldier and smiling up at him. "You don't mind, do you cutie?" The soldier looked nervously from Nikita's flirty smile to Evfra's pissed snarl. Yeah, not worth it. He gulped and took a step away. "I-I am sorry, human, I can n-not...participate." Nikita huffed and turned to Evfra. "Did you literally give your fucking men orders not to flirt with me, you dick?" "We have a war to win, Nikita." Evfra said, pinching the bridge of his nose. "We need this ship ready as soon as possible. Why the skutt are you here?" Nikita smirked and walked around his desk and grabbed his chin, startling him as she forced the large angara to look her in the eyes. "You said I could flirt with *you*, didn't you, big blue?" She said, her thumb running along his lower lip. Evfra growled at her, baring his teeth like a predator. "Oh *no* you're *so* scary." She said with very obvious sarcasm. Evfra slapped her hand from his face and stood, towering over her. He grabbed her by the arm and drug her from the room and to the room to the left, closing the door behind them. "What the skutt do you think you're doing, *brat*?" He growled at her in the privacy of the locker room. Nikita jabbed her finger to his chest. "If you don't want me to fucking go fuck your men, give a girl some fucking attention, dickwad. I don't care if you don't want to. You're setting down boundaries and I'm *trying* to follow them, but I'm not a fucking person who likes being caged by fucking rules. Especially by a man, do you understand me? Give a damn girl a break, fuck. Is it so hard to say something fucking nice now that I can fucking walk around?" Evfra's growling became louder and his bioelectrics sparked around him. She wanted attention? *Fine*. He reached out, grabbing a fistful of her hair and before she realized what was happening, his lips were on her's.
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Evfra's lips were unlike any she'd kissed before, especially with the scar that cut through one side. Still, her brain shut off the moment his tongue surged forward with sparks of his bio-electricity dancing along her tongue. It was almost like eating the candy pop rocks. She grabbed onto his Rofjiin and kissed him back passionately. Evfra had no idea how long they kissed. Or when he'd pressed his knee between her legs. Or how his hand got on her ass. In fact, she was pressing against him when he was pretty sure he'd been pressing her to the wall moments before. He pulled back and took some steadying breaths as he stared down at her dazed expression. He watched as she realized what had just been happening and she pressed against his shoulder with her hand. She didn't say anything as she held up a finger--a sign Jaal had mentioned could mean wait or be quiet. So he did both. She was looking away and her eyes seemed to be darting from one thing to another before she smirked and looked at him. She hummed and took a step toward her. "I approve." She said, licking her lips. "That was fucking hot. Didn't think you had that in ya." She said, bringing her hands to his chest. "But, Evfra..." She shoved him backwards with her biotics and he barely caught himself before he fell on his ass. "Don't you fucking touch me without asking again." She said, placing a hand on her hip. "I'm not a fucking toy for you to play with when you want, but I'll forgive you since I *did* say I wanted attention. I'm only letting you get away with it this time because I'm going to *assume* that was a misunderstanding." She raised her chin. Evfra crossed his arms and scowled at her. He wasn't going to admit it was because he had slipped up in his attraction for her mixed with his anger at her flirting with others. He wanted to claim her. "You weren't complaining." Evfra said. "Oh, no, big blue. This is a warning to ask next time." She said, bringing her hand to her body and stroking a line down her front, causing his eyes to follow. "This?" She purred, causing his eyes to snap back up. "It's my body, do you understand?" She began walking up to him again, hips swaying in an entirely too seductive way. "That means you need my permission to play these games, Evfra de Tershaav. I'm not complaining about your technique, though, grumpy." He growled as her hands touched his chest and ran them up his cowl. He sharply inhaled, his eyes widening as her fingers pressed into the erogenous zone. He clenched his jaw as his cowl flushed and he grabbed her wrists. "Don't tempt me, brat." She smirked. "Fine. But all bets are off when I get my fucking ship, Evfra." She said, pulling away and turning her back to him. "You'll be stuck on a ship with me, big blue. Why not have fun while we can?" She said with a laugh before leaving the locker room. He ran a hand over his face and growled in frustration. Well, that's one way to seduce the woman, Evfra de Tershaav.