Citadel

You can reach the Citadel via the Mass Relay in your system to plot a course to the Serpent Nebula and then to the Citadel itself. After the previous geth attack, security measures at the Citadel have tightened up a bit in an effort to prevent another similar attack. You are stripped of your weapons and Biotic amps when you first enter--not like you will be needing them here though. Exploration of the Citadel is limited to a few sectors. Feel free to explore and go about things at your leisure. We only want to usher you to a few important points of interest and pinpoint minor objectives that should be completed during your stay here.

A minor setback at the security checkpoint sends you to Captain Bailey. However, Shepard's reputation and lovable mug supersede any need for formalities, so he's let off the hook this time. The conversation with Captain Bailey collects quite a bit of intel on a variety of subjects. Avina, located just outside Bailey's office, acts as an information source for additional happenings within the Citadel. Explore the Zakera Ward (the level you docked in) to obtain a new side quest and finish out some existing ones. To the right of the informative hologram, a pair of Krogans mutter among themselves about fish in the Presidium. This opens up the side quest "Krogan Sushi." Further exploration takes you to the Citadel Souvenirs shop, where you can propose an endorsement contract or accuse them of classism, and the Zakera Café, a prime location for goods, including the stuff requested by your ship's cook.

In Rodam Expeditions on Level 28, you rub elbows with the rather unfriendly turian store owner and have a chance to secure a discount on his wares. Just past the disgruntled Etarn lies the entrance to the Dark Star lounge, a popular hangout spot for the ward dwellers. If you're looking for the Doc's Serrice Ice Brandy, you've no need to look any further. Like with all other of these alcohol-related establishments, the Dark Star has its share of occasional lurking wallflowers, which in this case goes by the name of Presidium Groundskeeper. If you've picked up the Krogan Sushi assignment, you can verify the rumors of fish in the Presidium once and for all. The Dark Star has seen busier nights, so other than Shepard's quick and awkward dancing and ingestion of alcoholic icky-looking green ooze there are more pressing matters to attend elsewhere. If you're itching for a chance at more Paragon or Renegade points, Khalisah, a news reporter who has sullied Shepard's name in the past, can be found past the Dark Star entrance.

More shopping is available on Level 26 and is home to another side quest. First, outside the shipping warehouse you witness a quarrel between a high-strung quarian and an accusatory volus. A hapless C-sec officer attempts to mediate the situation, but is getting nowhere. At this point, Shepard can step in and lend his investigative powers in redressing the situation, thus netting you the side quest "Crime in Progress." The two shops that reside on this level of the Citadel offer up their endorsements to the famous Commander Shepard as well. Place special interest in Saronis Application, as the storeowner Marab and his store will play a key role in the side quest "Crime in Progress."

The Rapid Transit can take you directly to the Presidium, where Anderson awaits, and that's the only place left unexplored. Anderson fills you in on a few details, but his unpleasant history with Cerberus has given him reason to remain tight-lipped on certain issues.