The Citadel, Saturday
Looking at the Council chamber, it was hard to imagine that it hadn't been more than a couple of years since Shepard and Saren fought in this very room. Hadn't... been more than a couple of years since Shepard had stood here, going through the exact same thing Kaidan was right now.
Well, more or less. A lot of circumstances had changed. Nobody could deny the Reapers were real now, for one thing, and there were four councilors, not three, and his new position wasn't up for much debate. He sucked in a breath and cast a quick look towards the balcony where Allie was. Stupid nerves.
Councilor Udina practically glowed with pride as he spoke, drawing Kaidan's attention back to him. "Major Alenko, step forward," he said.
Kaidan stepped forward. No more time to be nervous. Now it was time to face the music.
"It is the decision of the Council that you be granted all the powers and privileges of the Special Tactics and Reconnaissance branch of the Citadel," said the asari councilor. She looked worried, not proud; the rest of them all did. Understandable, considering the circumstances. Kaidan wasn't exactly jubilant either.
Allie Sekemoto
Allie had been watching Kaidan intently. When he glanced up at her, she flashed him a quick grin and a thumbs up. Yeah, there was a war on. But there was no way she was going to miss this ceremony.
Kaidan Alenko
It was now the salarian councilor's turn to speak. He reached out and ran his fingers over the keys, giving his own personal signature to the order. "Spectres are not trained, but chosen. Individuals forged in the fire of service and battle; those whose actions elevate them above the rank and file," he intoned.
Udina took over. "Spectres are an ideal, a symbol," he recited, adding his own signature with the press of his palm to his console. "The embodiment of courage, determination, and self-reliance. They are the right hand of the Council, instruments of our will." There was a little emphasis on that last part, but Kaidan dismissed it - it was the first time Udina had ever gotten to appoint a Spectre.
"Spectres bear a great burden," said the turian councilor, his clawed hand touching the pad in front of him. "They are protectors of galactic peace, both our first and last line of defense. The safety of the galaxy is theirs to uphold."
Beside him, the asari councilor gestured at her panel, adding her own signature and ratifying the order.
Udina practically glowed. "You are the second human Spectre, Major," he said, "And I do believe you will be a beacon of hope in this dark time, for the galaxy, and for our species. Be proud."
Kaidan found that somehow, his throat had closed up on him. He was proud, yeah, but more so than before he felt the sudden blow of responsibility that fell on his shoulders. "I am, sir," he said. "I won't let the Council down."
"It is done," the asari councilor said. "You will remain on the Citadel until you receive your orders." She touched her console. "I now declare this ceremony closed."
At that command, people started pouring back into the chamber from the balconies.
Allie Sekemoto
It was easy enough to move with the crowd considering they were going where Allie wanted to be.
"Now that's you're such a big shot, I'm not sure if I should bow, salute, or even go wild and hug you," Allie said when she finally got a chance to talk to Kaidan.
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan let out a little sheepish laugh.
"You're uh. Still allowed to hug me," he said. "I think."
Allie Sekemoto
"If I get thrown in jail for this, you'd better post bail," she teased, moving in for a quick hug.
"Congratulations!"
Kaidan Alenko
"Thanks," Kaidan said wryly. "I mean, now the real work begins, but... thanks."
He hugged her back firmly. "And thanks for showing up."
Allie Sekemoto
"No where else I'd rather be," Allie promised. "This is important to you. I wouldn't miss it for the world."
Kaidan Alenko
"I'm glad at least someone could make it," Kaidan said, with a little sigh. "Anyway, I can't chat long - looks like Udina wants a word. But you can tag along if you want, at least unless he tells you to clear out."
Allie Sekemoto
"See what he wants and if he can spare you for a half hour," she suggested. "I know there's a war on, but at least let me buy you a congratulatory beer before things get serious again."
Kaidan Alenko
"I'll try to make it happen, but I can't promise anything," Kaidan said. He smiled, then gave her one more quick hug. "I'll be back as soon as I can," he promised, then slid past her to go meet Udina.
Allie Sekemoto
Given the situation, Allie was thankful even for this little bit of time. "No problem. I'll be here."
People watching and keeping half an ear focused on various conversations around the room.
Kaidan Alenko
The mood in the room was anxious, but the conversations being held-- they spoke of a deep-seated denial that anything was happening outside of the Citadel. The people here hadn't seen their lives interrupted by the war, and they clearly didn't want it to.
Eventually, Kaidan returned. "I need to escort Udina and the rest of the Council up to the offices," he said, "But you're welcome to tag along."
Allie Sekemoto
Denial was pretty universal wasn't it?
"I'd like that," she replied. "I like seeing more of this place. It's a long, long way from New Covington."
Kaidan Alenko
"That it is," Kaidan said wryly. He shook his head. "Anyway, the Council's already on their way up, so--"
His eyes skipped past Allie for a second, as he noticed a familiar green-skinned Drell standing near one of the pillars. Thane.
And Thane was motioning for him.
"Wait," he said, "Now there's someone I didn't think would show up..."
What with being terminally ill and all.
Allie Sekemoto
Of course Allie had to turn her head and see just who Kaidan was talking about. "Friend of yours?"
Kaidan Alenko
"His name is Thane," Kaidan said quietly. "He's a Drell, used to run with Shepard. I know him from the hospital. I wonder what he wants?"
He was walking that way already.
Allie Sekemoto
"Only one way to find out."
And since Kaidan didn't specifically tell her to stay put, Allie was just going to follow along.
"Is it a good thing or a bad thing he's here?"
Kaidan Alenko
"He's pretty sick," Kaidan said quietly. "It must be big, if he's coming all this way to see me. I don't think we're close enough that he'd want to show up for the ceremony."
They reached Thane quickly enough, in spite of the crowds. The Drell did not look well, but he was holding himself upright and his expression was worried. "Spectre Alenko," he said, "I'd congratulate you on the appointment, but there is a more urgent issue."
Kaidan frowned. "Like what?" he asked.
"Troop movements," Thane said. "In the Citadel. They do not bear colors I recognize."
Allie Sekemoto
Allie put the odds of that being a good thing at slim to none.
"Where are they going?"
Kaidan Alenko
"I had thought they were coming here," Thane said. "But I see no trace of them now."
That brought a frown to Kaidan's face. "You think they might be heading for the Council?"
"That seems likely," the Drell croaked. The words barely left his throat before the lights in the Council chamber flicked off.
Allie Sekemoto
"That can't be a good sign."
On alert Allie scanned the darkness and listened for any incoming threat.
Kaidan Alenko
It took a few seconds for the emergency generator to cut back in -- which was enough for whoever was in here to start opening fire.
Thankfully, most people had cleared out of the chamber already. Kaidan acted on instinct, grabbing for Allie and trying to yank her behind cover as Thane darted off for his own.
Allie Sekemoto
Allie's instincts were much the same. Find cover and get Kaidan behind it. Which one of them was immortal after all?
"So what's the plan?" she asked once the were relatively out of the line of fire.
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan managed a quick glance over the cover. His eyes widened. "Cerberus," he hissed. "Thane's right. They're going to be heading for the Council - I can't let that happen."
Allie Sekemoto
She nodded, not surprised in the least. "Since you know where you're going, you'll have to lead. I'll watch our backs."
Kaidan Alenko
"Elevators," Kaidan said. His gaze darted back over to where Thane had been, but the Drell was gone. "Okay. See that pillar over there? I'm heading over there."
He caught Allie's eyes. "Can you use a gun?"
Allie Sekemoto
"I'm more comfortable with my sword," Allie admitted honestly. "But I'll be able to handle a gun." She'd just leave her sword tucked under her coat until the fighting got a lot more up close and personal.
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan reached for his belt and unclipped a pistol. He offered it to her. "They have guns, and there's a lot of them," he said. "Trust me, you don't want to be swinging your sword around right now. Cover me?"
Allie Sekemoto
She nodded in agreement as she took the gun. "Yeah, it's not that kind of fight."
The weight of the gun was unfamiliar but comfortable enough in her hand. "Go," Allie said, turning to see who or what was coming at them.
Kaidan Alenko
"Follow me as soon as you can," Kaidan hissed.
Then he was moving, towards a pillar not far away.
Allie Sekemoto
If anything or anyone even looked like they were pointing a weapon in his direction, Allie was going to shoot at them. That was just a given.
Kaidan Alenko
That was going to be a lot of shooting, then.
Kaidan reached the pillar quickly, then let loose his own barrage of bullets. He managed to take out two of the Cerberus soldiers pretty quickly, which freed up their position.
He gestured for Allie.
Allie Sekemoto
The nice thing about being a vampire? Allie could move damn fast when she needed to.
"Where to next?" she asked, ducking behind the pillar.
Kaidan Alenko
"Elevator," Kaidan snapped. "You shoot the guy on the right, I'll get the guy on the left--"
He was already reaching for the guy with his biotics.
Allie Sekemoto
Allie did as told, sending a series of shots towards the guy on the left. There were enough of them that he probably wasn't going to be a problem any longer.
Kaidan Alenko
A second bolt of biotic energy shot through the air and struck the one Kaidan had just pulled into the air. The two energy fields reacted violently to each other, causing the soldier to explode in a particularly grisly fashion.
Kaidan winced.
"That would be Thane," he said. "Elevator. Now."
He was moving.
Allie Sekemoto
She moved faster, getting to the elevator in time to turn around and make sure nothing was coming after them.
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan had already turned around himself. He fired a few more volleys into the soldiers coming towards him.
As soon as Thane and Allie reached the elevator, though, all bets were off. He slammed his hand into the console, and the elevator doors closed.
"That was invigorating," Thane said.
Kaidan pinched the bridge of his nose. "We need to reach the Council, stat."
Allie Sekemoto
With that kind of an attitude, Allie had a feeling she and Thane would get along quite well.
"I'm guessing the plan is get them somewhere safe? But where is that?"
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan scratched the back of his head. "Off the Citadel, probably," he said. "If C-Sec doesn't get this thing under control and soon. Fuck. Cerberus."
How the hell had this happened?
Allie Sekemoto
Judging by the sounds of fighting Allie could hear if she focused, she doubted that was going to happen any time soon.
"Which means a ship. Unless we're going to fight our way to the Portalocity office?"
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan shook his head. "It's too far," he said, "Anyway, the Presidium has its fair share of docking areas. Once we locate the Council, it shouldn't be too hard to get them to one... but there'll be fighting."
Thane watched the numbers go down on the elevator. "That won't be a problem," he said.
"Are you sure?" Kaidan asked quietly. "Your illness--"
"It won't be a problem."
The elevator came to a stop.
Allie Sekemoto
Glancing between Kaidan and Thane Allie wondered just how well the other man was going to hold up if he was as sick at Kaidan believed. But there really wasn't time to worry about it as the elevator stopped.
Showtime...
Kaidan Alenko
The doors slid open...
...and revealed little but an empty hallway and some consoles.
But Kaidan didn't relax as he stalked into the hall with his weapon drawn.
"I believe Cerberus has not yet arrived here," Thane observed. "This is a comms station. We should see what we can gather from the rest of the Citadel."
Kaidan looked to Allie. "Can you scout ahead?" he asked. "Not far, just... enough to make sure we're not going to run into any surprises."
Allie Sekemoto
It was anti-climatic, but Allie wasn't going to let her guard down.
"I can do that," she nodded.
She moved down the hall on light feet, alert and listening to see what they were walking into.
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan kneeled down by one of the consoles and hacked in with his omni-tool. The messages that poured in through it were scattered-- there seemed to be fighting all over the Citadel.
"...The Council," he said, frowning. "They're heading up, towards the docking bays."
Thane looked up from his own console. "All but one," he said. "We should split up. You and your friend go on ahead. I will find the Salarian councillor."
Allie Sekemoto
"It's clear," Allie said as she came back down the hallway. "At least in this immediate area. I don't know how long that will last though."
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan nodded. "Time to go, then," he said.
He looked to Thane. "You're sure?"
"Positive."
Kaidan drew his weapon again. "Good luck," he said.
"I don't need luck," the Drell croaked, and then he was gone, back into the elevator.
Allie Sekemoto
"Where's he going?" And, more importantly, "Do you know where the Council members are?"
Kaidan Alenko
"Up, to the docking bays," Kaidan said, running an override program on his omni-tool as fast as he could. "Uh, that's where we're going. Apparently the Salarian councillor bolted somewhere else, Thane's going to find him."
The elevator beeped. "Get in."
Allie Sekemoto
"Because of course we wouldn't be lucky enough to find everyone in one place," she said wryly as she stepped into the elevator.
Kaidan Alenko
"Some of the councillors have a mind of their own, unfortunately," Kaidan said wryly.
He hit a few buttons on his omni-tool, and the elevator took off again. "We've got to be prepared for anything. You ready?"
Allie Sekemoto
"As I'll ever be." Allie shrugged and gave him a half smile. "At least it's not the sewers of New Covington?"
Kaidan Alenko
"No," Kaidan said, checking his gun again - mostly a nervous twitch. "Might be worse, though."
He squinted at his omni-tool. "Arriving at the floor they're currently on in five... four..."
The doors slid open to reveal a bunch of surprised-looking guys in white armor.
Kaidan hit them with a biotic shockwave so hard it knocked them against the railing fifty feet away.
Allie Sekemoto
That was never not going to be impressive.
"And you brought me along why?" she asked.
Kaidan Alenko
"You'd have been angry if I hadn't?" Kaidan said, stepping out of the elevator and training his rifle on the troopers.
To his left, the three Council members were watching with big eyes.
"Sorry I'm late," he added.
Allie Sekemoto
"You know me so well."
Allie tipped her head towards the Council members. "Why don't you deal with them. I'll keep an eye on our other friends here."
Kaidan Alenko
"Shoot them if they try anything," Kaidan said.
He turned and walked towards the Council. "I heard you were heading up to the docks."
"It seemed like our best choice if we were to leave the station alive," Councillor Tevos replied, her mouth set in a frown. "Unfortunately, our ascent was interrupted by Cerberus."
Kaidan nodded. "Well, I'm with you now," he said. "Councillor Tevos. Sparatus. Udina."
"You cut it close, Major," Councillor Sparatus said flatly, his turian face radiating disapproval.
"There are reports of fighting all over the Presidium," Kaidan said, electing to ignore that. "There might be more Cerberus troopers up ahead. I say we take our chances with this particular elevator. If we get interrupted again, Allie and I will take out whatever troops show up."
Sparatus looked ready to say something, but Udina interrupted him. "Thank you, Major," he said. "That seems like the most expedient plan."
Allie Sekemoto
One trooper, braver, or perhaps more stupid then the others, groaned and tried to reach for his gun. It was the last thing he did.
"We probably want to get moving. These guys are starting to wake up."
Kaidan Alenko
"Got it," Kaidan said. He looked over his shoulder. "Allie! In the next elevator!"
The councillors filed into the elevator. Kaidan kept his gun pointed outward and backed into it.
Allie Sekemoto
A blink later, Allie was in the elevator. She gave the Councilors a brief nod. "Councilors."
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan hit a few buttons. The elevator doors closed, and he let out a breath of air. "We'll be up there in a few minutes," he said. "We should be fine..."
Thunk.
Oh, fuck.
Councillor Tevos looked up in alarmed surprise. "What's that noise?"
But Kaidan was already halfway to drawing his pistol. "Gunmen! Get down!"
Allie Sekemoto
"What's the expression?" Allie asked, watching the ceiling warily. "Fish in a barrel?"
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan didn't answer. He fired several rounds into the ceiling. Someone rolled across it-- he could hear by the thunking and sliding above it.
Behind him, Udina hit the emergency stop button. The doors opened again behind them.
"Go go go!"
Allie Sekemoto
Gun drawn, Allie was first out of the elevator. She quickly scanned the area for threats. The good news was, they seemed to be alone for the moment.
The bad news? The shuttle was on fire.
"Dammit."
Kaidan Alenko
Fuck fuck FUCK.
"Cerberus blew up the shuttle!" Kaidan yelled. "Everybody back to the elevator! Move!"
He turned around, weapon drawn... and found another elevator opening just ahead.
Allie Sekemoto
It was an elevator. There was only a limited number of people it could hold. "Get them out of here. I can handle this."
Kaidan Alenko
"I'm not leaving you here--" Kaidan snapped.
At which point his mouth snapped shut for half a second at the sight of the person coming out of that elevator.
He lowered his weapon. "Shepard? What are you doing here?"
"Shepard's blocking our escape!" Udina hissed behind him. "He's with Cerberus!"
Kaidan sucked in a deep breath of air and raised his weapon again, pacing quickly towards the Council. He wasn't taking his eyes off Shepard. "Just-- hang on. I got this. Everyone calm down."
Commander Shepard
There was a tense moment of silence, and then Shepard lowered his gun-- though beside him, Garrus and Liara seemed ready to move. "I can explain this, Kaidan," he said plaintively.
Allie Sekemoto
Allie shook her head, glancing between Kaidan and Shepard. Why was it every time things were going to hell Shepard turned up? "Better make it good," she muttered.
Kaidan Alenko
It was a special skill Shepard had.
"Come on, Shepard," Kaidan said, backing up cautiously, gun still drawn. "Gun drawn on a councillor... kinda looks bad."
Commander Shepard
Shepard straightened. He dropped his gun even lower, until it hung by his side, and gestured towards Liara and Garrus to do the same. They obeyed, albeit reluctantly.
"We don't have time to negotiate," Shepard said, locking his eyes on Kaidan. "You've been fooled. All of you." His gaze skipped past Kaidan. "Udina's behind this attack. The salarian councillor confirmed it."
Councillor Tevos stepped forward. She shot Udina a wary look.
"Please," Udina said, narrowing his eyes. "You have no proof. You never do."
That was... strange phrasing. And Shepard... Shepard seemed very certain of himself as he gestured back towards the elevators. "There are Cerberus soldiers in the elevator shaft behind us. If you open that door, they'll kill you all."
Allie Sekemoto
It seemed like it was coming down to making a choice of who to believe. Surprisingly Allie realized she was leaning towards Shepard's version of events. Politicians were probably just like Vampire Princes, shifty and not to be trusted.
"Your call, Kaidan."
Kaidan Alenko
It was Tevos who responded first, though, biting down on her lower lip. "We've mistrusted Shepard before, and it did not help us."
"We don't have time to debate this, and the Major is hardly in charge here at the moment," Udina said sharply. He turned around. "We're dead if we stay out here. I'm overriding the lock."
Fuck. Fuck.
The thing was, there'd been a time when Kaidan would've trusted Shepard... implicitly. But that had been a long time ago, and... and Shepard had put in the effort after that, though, hadn't he? Come to the hospital every time he could, and...
"I better not regret this," Kaidan said quietly.
He lowered his weapon at last. Glanced over his shoulder, towards Udina.
Commander Shepard
Shepard's voice was uncharacteristically quiet, too.
"You won't."
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan let out a breath and brought his weapon again. But this time in the other direction.
Damn it. Now he was pulling a gun on a councillor. What the hell had become of his life?
"Udina," he said, "Step away from the console."
Allie Sekemoto
When all of this was said and done, Allie was going to lock Kaidan and Shepard in a room until they worked out all their issues. Because that was a moment if she ever saw one.
"I'd do what he says," Allie warned with a predator's smile.
Kaidan Alenko
Udina did not look inclined to do as Kaidan had said. In fact, he rushed to the console.
"To hell with this!" As his fingers danced over the console, the door behind them began to unlock.
It was Tevos who reacted first, again, putting her hand on Udina's-- gently coaxing him to stop. But instead he shoved her and drew...
"He's got a gun!" Kaidan yelled.
Another split-second decision. If Udina was a traitor, then they were all in danger. Nothing to do but this and don't think: he pulled the trigger.
Udina crumpled immediately, bleeding profusely from his chest.
Allie Sekemoto
Next time Kaidan, let the vampire, with the vampire speed just tackle the guy. Geesh....
Udina seemed to be down for the count, but to be on the safe side, Allie darted over and took his gun.
"Now what?"
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan was a soldier, was the thing. He was wired to make these decisions - take out threats - if he had to. Allie hadn't even crossed his mind in the occasion.
He kind of wished he had, now. He'd known Udina for years. Hadn't liked the man, but... fuck.
Commander Shepard
Shepard approached him carefully. He hadn't seen Kaidan shaken like that in... a while.
"Kaidan?" he asked gently.
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan didn't look at him. Not really. Just kind of... out at the wall. "Yeah, I'm good," he said.
Not really. But good enough.
Allie Sekemoto
Allie was pretty sure he wasn't, but that was something to worry about later. Right now they needed to worry about whoever was trying to cut the elevator door open using some sort of laser.
"I don't think that elevator door is going to hold much longer."
Kaidan Alenko
"Shit," Kaidan said, spinning around with his gun drawn again. Beside him, Shepard followed suit, and between them and Liara and Garrus, they approached the doors carefully.
Commander Shepard
The doors slid open, revealing a tough-looking man in a Citadel security uniform, with another man in uniform right beside him.
"...Bailey?" Shepard said, lowering his weapon.
"Made it as fast as we could, Shepard," Bailey said, exhaling as he holstered his own weapon. "Looks like you... took care of things."
Tevos strolled forward. "Something's not right," she said. "You said Cerberus was targeting us-- where did their soldiers go?"
"Cerberus was right here, but they beat feet into the Keeper tunnels when they figured out we were coming." Bailey shrugged. "Sorry, councillor, I'll say it plain: Shepard just saved the lot of you."
The turian councillor gave a shallow nod. "Then you have saved my life twice, Shepard," he said, turning towards the man. "I owe you both a personal debt, and one on behalf of Palaven."
"You don't owe me anything, councillor," Shepard said, smiling faintly. "Times like this, we all stand together."
He looked aside, towards Kaidan and his friend.
Allie Sekemoto
Allie had inched closer to Kaidan during Bailey's explanation. "Is he always like this?" she asked under her breath. So damn noble it hurt?
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan shook off whatever had been stuck in him these past few minutes. He couldn't let it bother him for too long, or it'd settle in his bones, and he didn't need that.
"Earnest, well-meaning and pig-headed?" he said wryly. "Yes."
Allie Sekemoto
Shake it off for now. Just be prepared for Allie to poke at it later, for now she was just going to bump against Kaidan's arm.
"Sounds like someone else I know. Go figure."
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan let out a little sheepish laugh. "I, uh, don't have the charisma to be Shepard," he said, "But that's okay."
He shook his head and watched the others walk on ahead. "Let's just go," he said. "I need a drink, and to find out what happened here. Not necessarily in that order, but it'd be nice."
Allie Sekemoto
"I like that plan," she smiled. "Besides, I still owe you some sort of congratulatory drink."
Kaidan Alenko
"I'm not sure today is such a great day for congratulations anymore," Kaidan admitted with a sigh. He was not looking back at Udina; he was also not looking forward at Shepard's back. "But yeah."
Allie Sekemoto
"Maybe not, but sticking around here won't accomplish anything. Come on," Allie said, taking a step towards the direction Sheppard and company had gone in. "If we've got time, I'll fill you in on all the Fandom weirdness you've missed."
[[ FINALLY, DONE. with much thanks to allie_vamp for having the patience to deal with me as i went through this at a snail's pace. taken from mass effect 3, priority: citadel. let the actual canon catchup begin. ]]
Well, more or less. A lot of circumstances had changed. Nobody could deny the Reapers were real now, for one thing, and there were four councilors, not three, and his new position wasn't up for much debate. He sucked in a breath and cast a quick look towards the balcony where Allie was. Stupid nerves.
Councilor Udina practically glowed with pride as he spoke, drawing Kaidan's attention back to him. "Major Alenko, step forward," he said.
Kaidan stepped forward. No more time to be nervous. Now it was time to face the music.
"It is the decision of the Council that you be granted all the powers and privileges of the Special Tactics and Reconnaissance branch of the Citadel," said the asari councilor. She looked worried, not proud; the rest of them all did. Understandable, considering the circumstances. Kaidan wasn't exactly jubilant either.
Allie Sekemoto
Allie had been watching Kaidan intently. When he glanced up at her, she flashed him a quick grin and a thumbs up. Yeah, there was a war on. But there was no way she was going to miss this ceremony.
Kaidan Alenko
It was now the salarian councilor's turn to speak. He reached out and ran his fingers over the keys, giving his own personal signature to the order. "Spectres are not trained, but chosen. Individuals forged in the fire of service and battle; those whose actions elevate them above the rank and file," he intoned.
Udina took over. "Spectres are an ideal, a symbol," he recited, adding his own signature with the press of his palm to his console. "The embodiment of courage, determination, and self-reliance. They are the right hand of the Council, instruments of our will." There was a little emphasis on that last part, but Kaidan dismissed it - it was the first time Udina had ever gotten to appoint a Spectre.
"Spectres bear a great burden," said the turian councilor, his clawed hand touching the pad in front of him. "They are protectors of galactic peace, both our first and last line of defense. The safety of the galaxy is theirs to uphold."
Beside him, the asari councilor gestured at her panel, adding her own signature and ratifying the order.
Udina practically glowed. "You are the second human Spectre, Major," he said, "And I do believe you will be a beacon of hope in this dark time, for the galaxy, and for our species. Be proud."
Kaidan found that somehow, his throat had closed up on him. He was proud, yeah, but more so than before he felt the sudden blow of responsibility that fell on his shoulders. "I am, sir," he said. "I won't let the Council down."
"It is done," the asari councilor said. "You will remain on the Citadel until you receive your orders." She touched her console. "I now declare this ceremony closed."
At that command, people started pouring back into the chamber from the balconies.
Allie Sekemoto
It was easy enough to move with the crowd considering they were going where Allie wanted to be.
"Now that's you're such a big shot, I'm not sure if I should bow, salute, or even go wild and hug you," Allie said when she finally got a chance to talk to Kaidan.
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan let out a little sheepish laugh.
"You're uh. Still allowed to hug me," he said. "I think."
Allie Sekemoto
"If I get thrown in jail for this, you'd better post bail," she teased, moving in for a quick hug.
"Congratulations!"
Kaidan Alenko
"Thanks," Kaidan said wryly. "I mean, now the real work begins, but... thanks."
He hugged her back firmly. "And thanks for showing up."
Allie Sekemoto
"No where else I'd rather be," Allie promised. "This is important to you. I wouldn't miss it for the world."
Kaidan Alenko
"I'm glad at least someone could make it," Kaidan said, with a little sigh. "Anyway, I can't chat long - looks like Udina wants a word. But you can tag along if you want, at least unless he tells you to clear out."
Allie Sekemoto
"See what he wants and if he can spare you for a half hour," she suggested. "I know there's a war on, but at least let me buy you a congratulatory beer before things get serious again."
Kaidan Alenko
"I'll try to make it happen, but I can't promise anything," Kaidan said. He smiled, then gave her one more quick hug. "I'll be back as soon as I can," he promised, then slid past her to go meet Udina.
Allie Sekemoto
Given the situation, Allie was thankful even for this little bit of time. "No problem. I'll be here."
People watching and keeping half an ear focused on various conversations around the room.
Kaidan Alenko
The mood in the room was anxious, but the conversations being held-- they spoke of a deep-seated denial that anything was happening outside of the Citadel. The people here hadn't seen their lives interrupted by the war, and they clearly didn't want it to.
Eventually, Kaidan returned. "I need to escort Udina and the rest of the Council up to the offices," he said, "But you're welcome to tag along."
Allie Sekemoto
Denial was pretty universal wasn't it?
"I'd like that," she replied. "I like seeing more of this place. It's a long, long way from New Covington."
Kaidan Alenko
"That it is," Kaidan said wryly. He shook his head. "Anyway, the Council's already on their way up, so--"
His eyes skipped past Allie for a second, as he noticed a familiar green-skinned Drell standing near one of the pillars. Thane.
And Thane was motioning for him.
"Wait," he said, "Now there's someone I didn't think would show up..."
What with being terminally ill and all.
Allie Sekemoto
Of course Allie had to turn her head and see just who Kaidan was talking about. "Friend of yours?"
Kaidan Alenko
"His name is Thane," Kaidan said quietly. "He's a Drell, used to run with Shepard. I know him from the hospital. I wonder what he wants?"
He was walking that way already.
Allie Sekemoto
"Only one way to find out."
And since Kaidan didn't specifically tell her to stay put, Allie was just going to follow along.
"Is it a good thing or a bad thing he's here?"
Kaidan Alenko
"He's pretty sick," Kaidan said quietly. "It must be big, if he's coming all this way to see me. I don't think we're close enough that he'd want to show up for the ceremony."
They reached Thane quickly enough, in spite of the crowds. The Drell did not look well, but he was holding himself upright and his expression was worried. "Spectre Alenko," he said, "I'd congratulate you on the appointment, but there is a more urgent issue."
Kaidan frowned. "Like what?" he asked.
"Troop movements," Thane said. "In the Citadel. They do not bear colors I recognize."
Allie Sekemoto
Allie put the odds of that being a good thing at slim to none.
"Where are they going?"
Kaidan Alenko
"I had thought they were coming here," Thane said. "But I see no trace of them now."
That brought a frown to Kaidan's face. "You think they might be heading for the Council?"
"That seems likely," the Drell croaked. The words barely left his throat before the lights in the Council chamber flicked off.
Allie Sekemoto
"That can't be a good sign."
On alert Allie scanned the darkness and listened for any incoming threat.
Kaidan Alenko
It took a few seconds for the emergency generator to cut back in -- which was enough for whoever was in here to start opening fire.
Thankfully, most people had cleared out of the chamber already. Kaidan acted on instinct, grabbing for Allie and trying to yank her behind cover as Thane darted off for his own.
Allie Sekemoto
Allie's instincts were much the same. Find cover and get Kaidan behind it. Which one of them was immortal after all?
"So what's the plan?" she asked once the were relatively out of the line of fire.
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan managed a quick glance over the cover. His eyes widened. "Cerberus," he hissed. "Thane's right. They're going to be heading for the Council - I can't let that happen."
Allie Sekemoto
She nodded, not surprised in the least. "Since you know where you're going, you'll have to lead. I'll watch our backs."
Kaidan Alenko
"Elevators," Kaidan said. His gaze darted back over to where Thane had been, but the Drell was gone. "Okay. See that pillar over there? I'm heading over there."
He caught Allie's eyes. "Can you use a gun?"
Allie Sekemoto
"I'm more comfortable with my sword," Allie admitted honestly. "But I'll be able to handle a gun." She'd just leave her sword tucked under her coat until the fighting got a lot more up close and personal.
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan reached for his belt and unclipped a pistol. He offered it to her. "They have guns, and there's a lot of them," he said. "Trust me, you don't want to be swinging your sword around right now. Cover me?"
Allie Sekemoto
She nodded in agreement as she took the gun. "Yeah, it's not that kind of fight."
The weight of the gun was unfamiliar but comfortable enough in her hand. "Go," Allie said, turning to see who or what was coming at them.
Kaidan Alenko
"Follow me as soon as you can," Kaidan hissed.
Then he was moving, towards a pillar not far away.
Allie Sekemoto
If anything or anyone even looked like they were pointing a weapon in his direction, Allie was going to shoot at them. That was just a given.
Kaidan Alenko
That was going to be a lot of shooting, then.
Kaidan reached the pillar quickly, then let loose his own barrage of bullets. He managed to take out two of the Cerberus soldiers pretty quickly, which freed up their position.
He gestured for Allie.
Allie Sekemoto
The nice thing about being a vampire? Allie could move damn fast when she needed to.
"Where to next?" she asked, ducking behind the pillar.
Kaidan Alenko
"Elevator," Kaidan snapped. "You shoot the guy on the right, I'll get the guy on the left--"
He was already reaching for the guy with his biotics.
Allie Sekemoto
Allie did as told, sending a series of shots towards the guy on the left. There were enough of them that he probably wasn't going to be a problem any longer.
Kaidan Alenko
A second bolt of biotic energy shot through the air and struck the one Kaidan had just pulled into the air. The two energy fields reacted violently to each other, causing the soldier to explode in a particularly grisly fashion.
Kaidan winced.
"That would be Thane," he said. "Elevator. Now."
He was moving.
Allie Sekemoto
She moved faster, getting to the elevator in time to turn around and make sure nothing was coming after them.
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan had already turned around himself. He fired a few more volleys into the soldiers coming towards him.
As soon as Thane and Allie reached the elevator, though, all bets were off. He slammed his hand into the console, and the elevator doors closed.
"That was invigorating," Thane said.
Kaidan pinched the bridge of his nose. "We need to reach the Council, stat."
Allie Sekemoto
With that kind of an attitude, Allie had a feeling she and Thane would get along quite well.
"I'm guessing the plan is get them somewhere safe? But where is that?"
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan scratched the back of his head. "Off the Citadel, probably," he said. "If C-Sec doesn't get this thing under control and soon. Fuck. Cerberus."
How the hell had this happened?
Allie Sekemoto
Judging by the sounds of fighting Allie could hear if she focused, she doubted that was going to happen any time soon.
"Which means a ship. Unless we're going to fight our way to the Portalocity office?"
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan shook his head. "It's too far," he said, "Anyway, the Presidium has its fair share of docking areas. Once we locate the Council, it shouldn't be too hard to get them to one... but there'll be fighting."
Thane watched the numbers go down on the elevator. "That won't be a problem," he said.
"Are you sure?" Kaidan asked quietly. "Your illness--"
"It won't be a problem."
The elevator came to a stop.
Allie Sekemoto
Glancing between Kaidan and Thane Allie wondered just how well the other man was going to hold up if he was as sick at Kaidan believed. But there really wasn't time to worry about it as the elevator stopped.
Showtime...
Kaidan Alenko
The doors slid open...
...and revealed little but an empty hallway and some consoles.
But Kaidan didn't relax as he stalked into the hall with his weapon drawn.
"I believe Cerberus has not yet arrived here," Thane observed. "This is a comms station. We should see what we can gather from the rest of the Citadel."
Kaidan looked to Allie. "Can you scout ahead?" he asked. "Not far, just... enough to make sure we're not going to run into any surprises."
Allie Sekemoto
It was anti-climatic, but Allie wasn't going to let her guard down.
"I can do that," she nodded.
She moved down the hall on light feet, alert and listening to see what they were walking into.
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan kneeled down by one of the consoles and hacked in with his omni-tool. The messages that poured in through it were scattered-- there seemed to be fighting all over the Citadel.
"...The Council," he said, frowning. "They're heading up, towards the docking bays."
Thane looked up from his own console. "All but one," he said. "We should split up. You and your friend go on ahead. I will find the Salarian councillor."
Allie Sekemoto
"It's clear," Allie said as she came back down the hallway. "At least in this immediate area. I don't know how long that will last though."
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan nodded. "Time to go, then," he said.
He looked to Thane. "You're sure?"
"Positive."
Kaidan drew his weapon again. "Good luck," he said.
"I don't need luck," the Drell croaked, and then he was gone, back into the elevator.
Allie Sekemoto
"Where's he going?" And, more importantly, "Do you know where the Council members are?"
Kaidan Alenko
"Up, to the docking bays," Kaidan said, running an override program on his omni-tool as fast as he could. "Uh, that's where we're going. Apparently the Salarian councillor bolted somewhere else, Thane's going to find him."
The elevator beeped. "Get in."
Allie Sekemoto
"Because of course we wouldn't be lucky enough to find everyone in one place," she said wryly as she stepped into the elevator.
Kaidan Alenko
"Some of the councillors have a mind of their own, unfortunately," Kaidan said wryly.
He hit a few buttons on his omni-tool, and the elevator took off again. "We've got to be prepared for anything. You ready?"
Allie Sekemoto
"As I'll ever be." Allie shrugged and gave him a half smile. "At least it's not the sewers of New Covington?"
Kaidan Alenko
"No," Kaidan said, checking his gun again - mostly a nervous twitch. "Might be worse, though."
He squinted at his omni-tool. "Arriving at the floor they're currently on in five... four..."
The doors slid open to reveal a bunch of surprised-looking guys in white armor.
Kaidan hit them with a biotic shockwave so hard it knocked them against the railing fifty feet away.
Allie Sekemoto
That was never not going to be impressive.
"And you brought me along why?" she asked.
Kaidan Alenko
"You'd have been angry if I hadn't?" Kaidan said, stepping out of the elevator and training his rifle on the troopers.
To his left, the three Council members were watching with big eyes.
"Sorry I'm late," he added.
Allie Sekemoto
"You know me so well."
Allie tipped her head towards the Council members. "Why don't you deal with them. I'll keep an eye on our other friends here."
Kaidan Alenko
"Shoot them if they try anything," Kaidan said.
He turned and walked towards the Council. "I heard you were heading up to the docks."
"It seemed like our best choice if we were to leave the station alive," Councillor Tevos replied, her mouth set in a frown. "Unfortunately, our ascent was interrupted by Cerberus."
Kaidan nodded. "Well, I'm with you now," he said. "Councillor Tevos. Sparatus. Udina."
"You cut it close, Major," Councillor Sparatus said flatly, his turian face radiating disapproval.
"There are reports of fighting all over the Presidium," Kaidan said, electing to ignore that. "There might be more Cerberus troopers up ahead. I say we take our chances with this particular elevator. If we get interrupted again, Allie and I will take out whatever troops show up."
Sparatus looked ready to say something, but Udina interrupted him. "Thank you, Major," he said. "That seems like the most expedient plan."
Allie Sekemoto
One trooper, braver, or perhaps more stupid then the others, groaned and tried to reach for his gun. It was the last thing he did.
"We probably want to get moving. These guys are starting to wake up."
Kaidan Alenko
"Got it," Kaidan said. He looked over his shoulder. "Allie! In the next elevator!"
The councillors filed into the elevator. Kaidan kept his gun pointed outward and backed into it.
Allie Sekemoto
A blink later, Allie was in the elevator. She gave the Councilors a brief nod. "Councilors."
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan hit a few buttons. The elevator doors closed, and he let out a breath of air. "We'll be up there in a few minutes," he said. "We should be fine..."
Thunk.
Oh, fuck.
Councillor Tevos looked up in alarmed surprise. "What's that noise?"
But Kaidan was already halfway to drawing his pistol. "Gunmen! Get down!"
Allie Sekemoto
"What's the expression?" Allie asked, watching the ceiling warily. "Fish in a barrel?"
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan didn't answer. He fired several rounds into the ceiling. Someone rolled across it-- he could hear by the thunking and sliding above it.
Behind him, Udina hit the emergency stop button. The doors opened again behind them.
"Go go go!"
Allie Sekemoto
Gun drawn, Allie was first out of the elevator. She quickly scanned the area for threats. The good news was, they seemed to be alone for the moment.
The bad news? The shuttle was on fire.
"Dammit."
Kaidan Alenko
Fuck fuck FUCK.
"Cerberus blew up the shuttle!" Kaidan yelled. "Everybody back to the elevator! Move!"
He turned around, weapon drawn... and found another elevator opening just ahead.
Allie Sekemoto
It was an elevator. There was only a limited number of people it could hold. "Get them out of here. I can handle this."
Kaidan Alenko
"I'm not leaving you here--" Kaidan snapped.
At which point his mouth snapped shut for half a second at the sight of the person coming out of that elevator.
He lowered his weapon. "Shepard? What are you doing here?"
"Shepard's blocking our escape!" Udina hissed behind him. "He's with Cerberus!"
Kaidan sucked in a deep breath of air and raised his weapon again, pacing quickly towards the Council. He wasn't taking his eyes off Shepard. "Just-- hang on. I got this. Everyone calm down."
Commander Shepard
There was a tense moment of silence, and then Shepard lowered his gun-- though beside him, Garrus and Liara seemed ready to move. "I can explain this, Kaidan," he said plaintively.
Allie Sekemoto
Allie shook her head, glancing between Kaidan and Shepard. Why was it every time things were going to hell Shepard turned up? "Better make it good," she muttered.
Kaidan Alenko
It was a special skill Shepard had.
"Come on, Shepard," Kaidan said, backing up cautiously, gun still drawn. "Gun drawn on a councillor... kinda looks bad."
Commander Shepard
Shepard straightened. He dropped his gun even lower, until it hung by his side, and gestured towards Liara and Garrus to do the same. They obeyed, albeit reluctantly.
"We don't have time to negotiate," Shepard said, locking his eyes on Kaidan. "You've been fooled. All of you." His gaze skipped past Kaidan. "Udina's behind this attack. The salarian councillor confirmed it."
Councillor Tevos stepped forward. She shot Udina a wary look.
"Please," Udina said, narrowing his eyes. "You have no proof. You never do."
That was... strange phrasing. And Shepard... Shepard seemed very certain of himself as he gestured back towards the elevators. "There are Cerberus soldiers in the elevator shaft behind us. If you open that door, they'll kill you all."
Allie Sekemoto
It seemed like it was coming down to making a choice of who to believe. Surprisingly Allie realized she was leaning towards Shepard's version of events. Politicians were probably just like Vampire Princes, shifty and not to be trusted.
"Your call, Kaidan."
Kaidan Alenko
It was Tevos who responded first, though, biting down on her lower lip. "We've mistrusted Shepard before, and it did not help us."
"We don't have time to debate this, and the Major is hardly in charge here at the moment," Udina said sharply. He turned around. "We're dead if we stay out here. I'm overriding the lock."
Fuck. Fuck.
The thing was, there'd been a time when Kaidan would've trusted Shepard... implicitly. But that had been a long time ago, and... and Shepard had put in the effort after that, though, hadn't he? Come to the hospital every time he could, and...
"I better not regret this," Kaidan said quietly.
He lowered his weapon at last. Glanced over his shoulder, towards Udina.
Commander Shepard
Shepard's voice was uncharacteristically quiet, too.
"You won't."
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan let out a breath and brought his weapon again. But this time in the other direction.
Damn it. Now he was pulling a gun on a councillor. What the hell had become of his life?
"Udina," he said, "Step away from the console."
Allie Sekemoto
When all of this was said and done, Allie was going to lock Kaidan and Shepard in a room until they worked out all their issues. Because that was a moment if she ever saw one.
"I'd do what he says," Allie warned with a predator's smile.
Kaidan Alenko
Udina did not look inclined to do as Kaidan had said. In fact, he rushed to the console.
"To hell with this!" As his fingers danced over the console, the door behind them began to unlock.
It was Tevos who reacted first, again, putting her hand on Udina's-- gently coaxing him to stop. But instead he shoved her and drew...
"He's got a gun!" Kaidan yelled.
Another split-second decision. If Udina was a traitor, then they were all in danger. Nothing to do but this and don't think: he pulled the trigger.
Udina crumpled immediately, bleeding profusely from his chest.
Allie Sekemoto
Next time Kaidan, let the vampire, with the vampire speed just tackle the guy. Geesh....
Udina seemed to be down for the count, but to be on the safe side, Allie darted over and took his gun.
"Now what?"
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan was a soldier, was the thing. He was wired to make these decisions - take out threats - if he had to. Allie hadn't even crossed his mind in the occasion.
He kind of wished he had, now. He'd known Udina for years. Hadn't liked the man, but... fuck.
Commander Shepard
Shepard approached him carefully. He hadn't seen Kaidan shaken like that in... a while.
"Kaidan?" he asked gently.
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan didn't look at him. Not really. Just kind of... out at the wall. "Yeah, I'm good," he said.
Not really. But good enough.
Allie Sekemoto
Allie was pretty sure he wasn't, but that was something to worry about later. Right now they needed to worry about whoever was trying to cut the elevator door open using some sort of laser.
"I don't think that elevator door is going to hold much longer."
Kaidan Alenko
"Shit," Kaidan said, spinning around with his gun drawn again. Beside him, Shepard followed suit, and between them and Liara and Garrus, they approached the doors carefully.
Commander Shepard
The doors slid open, revealing a tough-looking man in a Citadel security uniform, with another man in uniform right beside him.
"...Bailey?" Shepard said, lowering his weapon.
"Made it as fast as we could, Shepard," Bailey said, exhaling as he holstered his own weapon. "Looks like you... took care of things."
Tevos strolled forward. "Something's not right," she said. "You said Cerberus was targeting us-- where did their soldiers go?"
"Cerberus was right here, but they beat feet into the Keeper tunnels when they figured out we were coming." Bailey shrugged. "Sorry, councillor, I'll say it plain: Shepard just saved the lot of you."
The turian councillor gave a shallow nod. "Then you have saved my life twice, Shepard," he said, turning towards the man. "I owe you both a personal debt, and one on behalf of Palaven."
"You don't owe me anything, councillor," Shepard said, smiling faintly. "Times like this, we all stand together."
He looked aside, towards Kaidan and his friend.
Allie Sekemoto
Allie had inched closer to Kaidan during Bailey's explanation. "Is he always like this?" she asked under her breath. So damn noble it hurt?
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan shook off whatever had been stuck in him these past few minutes. He couldn't let it bother him for too long, or it'd settle in his bones, and he didn't need that.
"Earnest, well-meaning and pig-headed?" he said wryly. "Yes."
Allie Sekemoto
Shake it off for now. Just be prepared for Allie to poke at it later, for now she was just going to bump against Kaidan's arm.
"Sounds like someone else I know. Go figure."
Kaidan Alenko
Kaidan let out a little sheepish laugh. "I, uh, don't have the charisma to be Shepard," he said, "But that's okay."
He shook his head and watched the others walk on ahead. "Let's just go," he said. "I need a drink, and to find out what happened here. Not necessarily in that order, but it'd be nice."
Allie Sekemoto
"I like that plan," she smiled. "Besides, I still owe you some sort of congratulatory drink."
Kaidan Alenko
"I'm not sure today is such a great day for congratulations anymore," Kaidan admitted with a sigh. He was not looking back at Udina; he was also not looking forward at Shepard's back. "But yeah."
Allie Sekemoto
"Maybe not, but sticking around here won't accomplish anything. Come on," Allie said, taking a step towards the direction Sheppard and company had gone in. "If we've got time, I'll fill you in on all the Fandom weirdness you've missed."
[[ FINALLY, DONE. with much thanks to allie_vamp for having the patience to deal with me as i went through this at a snail's pace. taken from mass effect 3, priority: citadel. let the actual canon catchup begin. ]]