ME2: Resurrection of the Lost Race
Chapter 7: Confirming Suspicions

I walked into the briefing room to see Miranda, Jacob, Zaeed, Mordin, and Garrus sitting around the table.

"Excellent, you're all here." I smiled. "Mordin; welcome to the Normandy."

"Yes welcome, Professor. It's an honor to have you on board." Jacob said with a nod.

"Yes. Very exciting. Cerberus working with aliens. Unexpected. Illusive Man branching out, maybe? Not so human-centric?"

"You know of TIM?" I asked with a little bit of shock in my voice. "You're very well informed."

"TIM? Interesting nickname. Yes, salarian government well connected. Espionage experts. Had top level clearance once. Retired now. Still hear things. Informed of name only. No knowledge of man behind it. Anti-alien reputation listed as" Mordin took a breath. "... problematic."

I sat my butt on the corner edge of the table next to Garrus. "Don't kid yourself, Professor. Humans still come first in the Illusive Man's eyes. But this mission is too big for them to handle alone."

"The Collectors are abducting human colonists out on the fringes of Terminus Space." Jacob commented.

"Hmm. Not simple abductions. Wouldn't need me for simple." Mordin pointed out.

"Entire colonies disappear without a trace;" Miranda said. "No distress signals are sent out. There are no signs of any kinds of attack."

"And there is virtually no evidence that anything unusual happened at all... except that every man, woman, and child is gone."

Mordin got up from his chair and began to pace. "Gas, maybe? No. Spreads too slow. Airborne virus? No. Slower than gas. Drugged water supply? No. Effects not simultaneous."

I lifted a finger. "Mordin."

"Intriguing. Fascinating. No distress calls? No signs of resistance? New technology. Marvelous advanced. But what?"

"Mordin!" The salarian doctor looked at me. "We collected samples from one of the colonies. I'd like you to analyze them and figure out how the Collectors did this. Please."

"Yes. Of course. Analyze the samples. Going to need a lab."

"There is a fully-equipped lab on the combat deck, Professor Solus. If you find anything lacking, please place a requisition order." EDI echoed.

Mordin looked around the room. "Who's that? Pilot? No. Met Joker when boarded. Synthesized voice. Simulated emotional inflections. Could it be.. no. Maybe. Have to ask. Is that an AI?" Mordin looked at me.

I looked at Garrus and then smiled as I shook my head. "Yes. This ship is equipped with an artificial intelligence."

Mordin looked like he was in disbelief. "An AI on board? Non-human crew members? Cerberus more desperate that I thought."

"The Collectors have taken tens of thousands of colonists. We'll do whatever it takes to find and stop them." Jacob commented.

"Yes. Of course." Mordin said as he sat back down in his chair. "Can't risk being captured like colonists. Need to identify, neutralize technology. Need samples."

"We will get them to you as soon as this briefing is over, Mordin." I smiled. "Next, I would like to discuss Zorya." I looked at Zaeed. "According to our contract; we must go there and find this Vido Santiago and save the people at the Eldfell-Ashland refinery."

"Vido Santiago?" Garrus asked. "I know that name. That son of a bitch almost killed Chellick and I about four years ago; on the Citadel."

"We have to go to the Citadel first; but then we head to Zorya and help those people."

I was half expecting Miranda to disagree with me, but she didn't.

"Hey Commander, we just got done fueling up at the depot. We are ready to disembark to the Mass Relay." Joker said over the comm.

"Set a course to the Citadel, Joker." I then looked at everyone. "Is there anything else?"

"Yes," Miranda said as she stood from her chair and handed me a pad. "There is another dossier. Kasumi Goto. You might have heard of her."

"I have," Garrus said. "She's a wanted criminal on the Citadel."

"She will be a good asset to our team;" Miranda pointed out. "And speaking of the Citadel; we are supposed to meet her there."

"I will look this over; thank you. If there is anything else; you're all dismissed."

"Professor," Jacob said to Mordin. "If you will follow me, I will show you to the lab."

"Much appreciated. Thank you."

"I'm camping out in one of the cargo holds." Zaeed mentioned as he looked at me. "Come find me when you have time. I've got some stories to tell."

I couldn’t help but smile as Zaeed walked out of the briefing room, leaving Garrus and I alone.

I let out a sigh as I fell into a chair; placing my head on the table.

"You okay?"

"Yeah," I muffled. "Just tired and emotionally drained."

I felt his hand on my back. "Well I'm here if you need me."

I lifted my head off the table. "I know, and I'm glad you're here." I reached for his hand and squeezed it. "If I'm walking into hell working with Cerberus and going against the Collectors, I want someone I trust at my side."

"You realize this plan has me walking into hell too." He then chuckled. "Just like old times."

"Indeed." I stood from my chair. "Are you going to go see Chellick when we get to the Citadel?"

"I have too," Garrus said as we walked out of the briefing room. "If I don't and he found out I was there... he would kick my ass."

I chuckled. "He would."

"Are you going to go see Anderson?"

I nodded. "Yeah, I need some answers. I need to know where Kaidan is and why the Council is denying the reaper threat. I also want an explanation why Joker was grounded and wouldn't let him fly."

"You know, when I woke up and saw Dr. Chakwas looking down at me, I thought these past two years was a bad dream." Garrus sighed.

"Believe me; I wished it was too."

We made our way back onto the CIC. "I'll be in the Main Battery; seems like they're having some problems. I might be able to help out. Also, I think a little bit of calibrating might do me some good. I'll see you later?"

"Of course." I nodded.

I waved to Garrus as he entered the elevator and then I made my way over to Kelly, who was at her terminal working. "Kelly, is there anything I should know before going up to my cabin?"

She turned to me and smiled. "There are unread messages at your private terminal. Our ETA to the Citadel is 26 hours."

"Thank you," I nodded.

"Shepard," I turned to look at Kelly. "I was wondering how our newest turian crew member was doing. His injuries looked painful."

I let out a sigh. "Honestly, I am somewhat worried about him. He's been through a lot, and not just physically."

"And so have you." Kelly then crossed her arms. "He's very charming though; and that voice."

"I know exactly what you mean. But I think that’s all turians." I chuckled.

Kelly smiled brightly. "You two would make a cute couple."

My eyes widened. "What? Oh no, no, no. Garrus and I are just friends. In fact, he's my best friend. I have a fiancée, remember?"

Kelly shrugged. "Still doesn't mean it can't happen."

I shook my head. "It's 2330 hours, I'm going to bed. Good night, Miss Chambers."

Kelly Chambers smiled. "Good night, Shepard. Sweet dreams."


At 0900 I finally managed to make my way down to the Crew Deck to get some coffee.

"Good Morning, Commander." Gardner said. "I’m just brewing up a fresh pot of coffee. Would you like a cup?"

"Yes please." I then noticed two crewmembers sitting at the table. After Rupert filled my cup, I grabbed it and headed over to see them.

"Commander," replied a male crewmember as he stood.

"I hope I'm not intruding."

"Of course not;" replied the woman. "Rolston was just about to show me his daughter's picture. Please join us."

I sat down next to Crewman Vadim Rolston and Ensign Sarah Patel. Rolston smiled as he looked down at a picture then showed it to Patel and I.

"Awwwww." Patel squeed. "She's a cutie."

"How old is she?" I asked.

"She'll be a year old next month."

"You'll miss her first birthday." Patel said with a sad voice.

"Yeah, but that's alright. I will send her a com-vid."

"Where are you from?" I asked.

"New Canton."

"New Canton? But that colony is on the edge of the frontier. Could be vulnerable to Collector attack, couldn't it?"

"Exactly," Rolston pushed the button on his pad so the picture disappeared. "It's most important that she have a first birthday. That's why I'm here."

"It was nice meeting you both," I said as I stood from my chair. "Tell your daughter Happy Birthday for me when you talk to her."

"I will, Commander. Thank you."

I grabbed my cup and headed for the Main Battery. Knowing Garrus, he was already up and messing around with his weapons or armor. The light on the Main Battery door was green, so I walked in to find him running his hand over a console.

"Good morning," I said as I walked over to him. "Did you sleep well?"

"I did, actually. I do have to say this for Cerberus, they know how to make things comfortable."

"You should ask Joker about his leather seat." I smirked; then I leaned on him as I looked at his console. "What are you working on?"

"Getting some ideas on upgrading Normandy's weapon systems. It looked like Cerberus upgraded what the ship carried before. Should have a bit more kick. Although;" Garrus said as he went over to another console, pointing to a display. "I still don't like our chances against a Collector ship. Not unless we upgrade the guns."

"Send me a list of materials that you need and I will see what I can come up with." I then leaned on the console. "Have the Cerberus crewmen given you any trouble?"

"I think being part of the team that took down Saren got me some points. Everyone I talk to is polite, especially Kelly Chambers. She is a very cheerful person... reminds me a little bit of Tali."

"You know; I saw Tali about a week or so ago when I was on Freedom's Progress. Did you know she has her own team now?" I shook my head. "Another reminder of the time that was lost."

Garrus sighed as he leaned up on the console next to me. "But you're back; and that's all that matters."

"Will you come with me to see Anderson and to speak with the Council?"

"Of course." He nodded.

"You told me yesterday that you knew Kasumi Goto. What can you tell me about her?"

"Honestly, not much." He shrugged. "She is wanted on the Citadel, but no one really knows what she looks like. I know a salarian Spectre has been trying to catch her for a couple of years now. Jondum Bau."

"I read over her dossier last night, said she is unequaled at stealth and infiltration. Illusive said her skills will prove invaluable during the mission. Also, there is a password."

"A password?" Garrus lifted a brow. "What kind of password?"

"I don't know. ‘Silence is golden'. Know what it means?"

Garrus leaned up against the console. "Huh, have no idea."

"I guess we will know when we meet up with her. I'll talk to you later." I patted my best friend on his arm and headed for the door.

"I'll be here if you need me."

After stopping by the kitchen to get another cup of coffee, I headed up to the CIC. I went to my personal terminal and found out that I had a couple of messages.

From: Aria T'Loak

Shepard, one of my men found this boy trying to get in touch with you. I guessed you saved his life. He had a letter written for you. Thought I would pass it along.
~Aria

To whom this may concern:
I think I met you at Afterlife on Omega. You had stopped me from joining up with those mercs who were trying to take out Archangel. Man, I was so pissed off at you. You broke my gun! I got blind drunk that night, and it was just yesterday before I got it together enough to check the news vids and saw that almost all those mercs were killed.

I don't know who you are or if you got out of there alive yourself, but thanks. I felt really stupid when I heard about the body count, and how I could have been part of it. I'll make the most with what you did for me.

Jonn Whitson

PS: Tell the old man I said sorry as well.

I couldn't help but smile. I was happy to hear the boy was okay. I read my next letter.

From: Illusive Man

Shepard, EDI informed me that Jacob recently acquired some M5 phalanx pistols from some friends who shall remain unnamed. I appreciate his resourcefulness, but had he come to me, I would have made the arrangements. I know your weapon of choice is a pistol, so I'll have a few complimentary Phalanxes with replacement parts delivered to Normandy when you dock at the Citadel. Use them how you will.

I squeed; then quickly looked around to see if anyone heard me. A new pistol! Surely it had to be better than the shitty one Miranda had given me back on Freedom's Progress.

"Kelly, is there anything I should know about before I go talk to Mordin?" I asked when I approached her.

"Nothing right now, but speaking of Mordin;" She smiled. "His psych profile warned of hyper behavior, but he is like a hamster on coffee!"

I busted out laughing. "I know; sometimes I have to take a second to process what he is saying. But I like him;"

"I do too;" Kelly said. "He's going to be a very productive member of the team."

"Yes he will." Then I placed my hand on her shoulder. "Tomorrow night, you and I are having dinner. No exceptions."

"I look forward to it." She nodded as I walked off the CIC and into Normandy's lab.

"Shepard. Good morning." Mordin said as looked up from his work station.

"Good morning," I smiled. "How are things here in the lab? Is it working out well for you?"

"Quite satisfactory. Impressive Laboratory setup. Missed working for operations with a budget. Best setup I've seen since work with Special Tasks Group. AI in particular very helpful. Found a few surveillance bugs. Destroyed most of them. Returned expensive one to Miranda." Mordin chuckled. "Nothing unexpected."

"Wait, you found surveillance bugs?" I sighed. "Why am I not surprised?" Then I leaned closer to the salarian. "You think you might have some time to come up to my cabin and see if my room is bugged?"

"Of course." Mordin nodded as he took a sip of tea from his cup.

"Thanks; any word on Daniel and how he is doing at the clinic?"

"Heard from him this morning. Safe and secure. Plague fully eradicated. Neighborhood mostly quiet now."

"You know, we should have brought a few of your mechs with us."

"No." Mordin shook his head. "Tired of mechs. Noisy. Never used them in STG."

I took another sip of coffee. "Was it frustrating working on Omega, with such a limited facility?"

"No!" Mordin shouted happily. "Loved it! Limited facility presents challenge. Save greatest number of people using limited resources." He took a deep happy breath. "Security threats, gangs, mercenary groups add additional difficulty. Quite enjoyable. Plague stretched abilities to limit." He took a sip of his tea. "Couldn't have asked for more. Also enjoyed saving people, of course. Helping the helpless, greater good. All that, too. Nice retirement after STG work complete."

I wanted to ask Mordin about his work in STG; but I had other things I needed to do before we landed on the Citadel. "I'm glad to have you on board, Mordin." I headed for the door and then stopped. "I'll see you later for our 'bug date'."

Mordin chuckled. "Will bring wine."

I looked through the cockpit windows of Normandy as the Citadel began to appear. As Joker contacted flight control, I couldn't help but stare at the Citadel arms as we flew by. I could still see some damage left from the attack, but most of it had been rebuilt. I saw the Destiny Ascension orbiting the Citadel, it didn't seem like it had changed either.

"Commander, we're clear to land at docking bay B24; Zakera ward." Joker commented.

"Good; get us docked." I patted him on the shoulder. "We will depart the Citadel tomorrow at 0800."

Just as I was about to walk off, he turned to me. "Hey Commander?" I turned to him. "If you by chance see Anderson... tell him I said hello."

I smiled. "I will, Jeff."

Fifteen minutes later Garrus was waiting for me at the docking bay doors. To my surprise, he wasn't wearing his armor. He had on a blue uniform with gold trim. He still had on his visor though... that didn't surprise me. As for myself, I had on an Alliance shirt with a gray hoodie.

"The first thing I would like to do is go see Anderson."

"Of course." He nodded. "I'm right here with you."

I looked down at my pad. "I would also like to get you a new set of armor. I'm not going to have you back me up without proper gear."

"You think we can afford it?"

"Yes, that’s one good thing about being dead. You earn interest. I got some extra credits in my savings. I would like to depart the Citadel tomorrow morning if all possible. We need to get to Zorya."

"Alright then, let's go see if we can go find Anderson."

We departed the docking arm and entered onto a ramp. We walked the length of it and entered onto a platform that was filled with shuttle cars. I looked at Garrus and shrugged as we both got in one. It automatically took us to the main area of Zakera Ward.

"Have a pleasant stay." Said the shuttle VI.

"Well that's new." Garrus commented. "Maybe it's a security upgrade?"

I shrugged. "I don't know but-"

"Commander Shepard. Enter the password and receive a free gift!"

I turned around to see an advertisement kiosk just to the right of the shuttle pad. There was a hooded human female smiling at me. I looked at Garrus for a moment and then walked up to it.

"Got problems with collectors? Try Kasumi's credit services!"

I blinked. "Kasumi?"

"Just enter your password for a fabulous prize package worth millions of credits!"

"She wants you to say the password Shepard." Garrus pointed out.

"Shepard. You do have the password, right?"

I sighed. "Silence is golden."

"Good to finally meet you, Commander Shepard. Kasumi Goto. I'm a fan."

"Nice to meet you as well. Has Cerberus filled you in on the mission?"

"Honestly, I'm shocked they didn't come to see me sooner. My fault for being hard to find, I guess."

"So what's with the password and sneaking around?" I shrugged.

"I'm the best thief in the business, not the most famous. Need to watch my step to keep it that way. I also needed to make sure all this was legit. I know about Cerberus and their reputation."

"Legit? What are you talking about?"

"I needed to know if you're the real Commander Shepard, which you are."

I crossed my arms. "What makes you so sure?"

The thief paused for a moment. "There is a certain... aura about you. Like you've seen things no one else has."

I took a deep breath. "So what brought you to Cerberus, or was it the other way around?"

"That's a bit of a story;" Kasumi paused. "Short version, they were looking for me, so I trailed them to find out why. Turns out they were looking for someone to join you on an important mission... and were offering a serious signing bonus."

"A signing bonus? But why would Cerberus want a thief? It's not like we're here to rob the Collectors? Er... no offence."

Kasumi shrugged. "None taken. And honestly, I have no idea why. Perhaps it's because I can hack any system; I'm the best in the galaxy. Besides, the signing bonus isn't about money, Shepard. I had a thing I needed help with, so I made them a deal. And here we are."

"I assume this deal is something I should know about?"

"Yeah, I guess it slipped their minds. I'm looking for my old partner's greybox. A man named Donovan Hock took it, and I'm planning to get it back. I've taken the liberty of getting you some evening wear, though. You'll want to look presentable."

I lifted a brow. "Evening wear? Okay, you got me curious. What's this all about?"

"I can't go into detail, not here. I can brief you once we are both onboard your ship."

"Alright, Kasumi." I nodded. "If Cerberus promised you the greybox, we'll get it for you."

"It will be fun. And if we're lucky, you won't even have to draw your gun."

The image of Kasumi disappeared from the advertisement column. I shrugged and looked at Garrus. Just then I heard a voice coming from above me. "We probably should wrap this up. You look pretty silly standing there talking to an advertisement."

I blinked as I saw the hooded woman. She was dressed in black and grey. Her eyes gave off a faint glow, and her lipstick was made up like Queen Amidala's from Star Wars. She was absolutely breathtaking.

"Kasumi."

She placed her hand on her hip. "See you on the ship, Shepard."

"Wait," I said as she turned. "Why don't you join me? I have a few errands I need to do as well."

Kasumi smiled. "Sorry Shepard, not this time. I've got to meet up with a handsome salarian Spectre. He thinks he is going to arrest me, but I'm going to give him something that will make him change his mind." Then she turned and looked at Garrus. "Besides, I don't want to be a third wheel or anything." She winked and then disappeared using some sort of cloaking technology.

Garrus turned and looked at me. "What did she mean by 'third wheel'?"

"Being a third wheel means you are intruding on the other two people who you are with. Kasumi thinks we want to be alone."

Garrus thought for a moment. “Awww, like a ‘date’ as you humans call it.” I nodded. “But we are not on a date.” Garrus pointed out.

I wrapped my arm around his as we slowly headed to customs. "Of course we are. I would love to spend the rest of the day touring the Citadel with my best friend."

Garrus chuckled. "Alright; then it's a date."

Just then I saw a bunch of Alliance Marine cadets pouring out of a large Alliance shuttle. I was somewhat intrigued as they all stood in line as their commanding officer started to pace.

"This, recruits, is a 20-kilo ferrous slug. Feel the weight." I crossed my arms as I watched the recruits grab the bullet one by one. I smile as I remembered being at that age; learning the new guns and technology the Alliance offered. "Every five seconds, the main gun of an Everest-class dreadnought accelerates one to 1.3% of light speed. It impacts with the force of a 38-kiloton bomb. That is three times the yield of the city-buster dropped on Hiroshima back on Earth! That means Sir Isaac Newton is the deadliest son of a bitch in space. Now, Serviceman Burnside! What is Newton's First Law?"

The young man quickly stood at attention. "Sir! An object in motion stays in motion, sir!"

He pointed at the young boy. "No credit for partial answers, maggot!"

"Sir! Unless acted on by an outside force, sir!" the young man finished.

"Damn straight! I dare to assume you ignorant jackasses know that space is empty! Once you fire this hunk of metal, it keeps going till it hits something. That can be a ship, or the planet behind that ship! It might go off into deep space and hit somebody else in ten thousand years! If you pull the trigger, you are ruining someone's day, somewhere and sometime! That is why you check your damn targets! That is why you wait for the computer to give you a damn firing solution! That is why, Serviceman Chung, we do not 'eyeball it!' This is a weapon of mass destruction. You are not a cowboy shooting from the hip!"

"Sir, yes, sir!"

"Johnson, march these poor excuse for soldiers down to the training arena!"

"Sir!"

The recruits saluted their commanding officer and then made their way through customs and C-Sec.

"I loved getting talks like that when I first joined the Alliance. It pumped me full of adrenaline."

Garrus turned and looked at me. "Turians get adrenaline rushes differently then humans do, I guess."

"Okay Garrus, I'll bite. What do turians do?"

"Violence mostly." Garrus shrugged. "Turian ships have more operational discipline than your Alliance, but fewer restrictions. Our commanders weren't as tight, and they know we need to blow off steam. Turian ships have training rooms for exercise, combat sims, even full contact sparring. Whatever lets people work off stress. "

"Full contact sparring?"

Just as Garrus was about to tell me, I heard a turian shouting.

"This is an outrage!"

"I'm sorry sir, but I'll need you to remove any biotic amp you might be wearing." Replied a human female behind the counter of Customs.

"What? Why?"

"Unfortunately sir, biotics can be used as a weapon. The rules require me to confiscate all amps. Could you please hand over yours?"

"I don't have one," the turian growled. "I'm not a biotic!"

The human female looked surprised. "Oh. When you objected, I thought..."

"You humans are all racists!" The turian sneered as he stormed away from customs.

The woman sighed. "Next."

I walked up with a smile. "It's been a couple of years since I passed through here. Security seems to have tightened a bit."

"After the geth attack, there was a review of security protocol. A few minor changes were made to reduce risk of geth infiltration. We apologize for the inconvenience."

"You would think a geth would stand out." Garrus commented.

"Assumptions are dangerous. 'Be Alert, Be Safe'." The woman said.

"So we can't carry weapons?"

"Only authorized personal can carry weapons. If you wish to fill out a request form, you can get one over at the C-Sec office."

"Think I might do that." I nodded. "Thanks for your time."

"Perhaps with you being a Spectre, we don't have to fill out a form." Garrus said as we entered onto the main entrance to C-Sec.

"It would be nice to-" just then an alarm went off, making Garrus and I stop in our tracks.

Then a turian held out his hand. "Hold please."

"Huh, they have tightened up security."

The turian fumbled with his console and then shook his head. "Shut it down. What? Do you seriously think.... yeah, okay." He sighed. "Sorry for the inconvenience, ma'am. Our scanners are picking up false readings. They seem to think you're, ah, dead."

I didn't want to go into much detail with the turian so I just shrugged. "I was listed as MIA a couple of years ago."

"Would you mind checking in with my captain? He can reinstate you in our system. He's just pass the scanners, on your right." Then he looked at Garrus. "Welcome back to the Citadel, sir. Both of you enjoy your stay."

"Thank you," I said as Garrus and I made our way through the door and in the main C-Sec office.

"Very different from the office over at the academy." Garrus said.

"A lot smaller too."

Just then I heard a male voice shouting to a C-Sec officer. "You'll have to make him scream a little. He's not going to tell you everything just 'cause you asked."

"I... I know, sir." replied a female officer.

"If you don't have the stomach, or you're worried about being reported, I can take care of it."

"No, sir! I can handle it." She said with confidence.

"I know you can." He then looked at me. "Well I be a monkey's uncle; Commander Shepard!" He stood up from his chair and offered his hand and I took it. "I can't believe it's really you."

"But how do you know it is me?" I asked.

The man chuckled. "We have the best screening equipment in the galaxy. Those scanners can sample DNA from skin flakes. Hell, if you have unregistered gene mods, they can even figure those out."

"Impressive." Garrus commented. "Didn't have that two years ago."

"Sorry, where are my manners? I'm Captain Armando Bailey."

"Nice to meet you, Captain. Your sergeant said you can help me fix this mess."

"Usually you'd have to go through the Station Security Administration to reactive your IDs. Then to Customs and Immigration to regain access to the Citadel itself. And probably a stop by the treasury. 'Spending a year dead' is a popular tax dodge."

"Awww, hell!" I grumbled.

"But, I can see you're a busy woman." Bailey commented. "So I'm going to take care of it for you and we can call it a day."

"Ummm, couldn't one of us, or both of us, get into trouble for that?" I asked.

"There's no way to fool the DNA scanners in that tunnel. You're you. Why wait in long lines and fill out a mass of useless hardcopy paperwork to get to the same place?"

"Because it's the law?" Garrus commented.

Bailey shook his head. "The Council does everything by the book. They have thousands of years to write it." Bailey hit his hand on his desk with a growl. "Sometimes things need to get done without a committee vote."

"Shepard, I like him." Garrus said.

"Does that include 'Make him scream a little'?" I crossed my arms.

"This isn't the Presidum!" Bailey smacked his hand on his desk again. "All they have to worry about are protesters outside their 'free speech zones' or someone's poodle crapping on the grass! Down here, we have drugs, organized crime, and murder. Policing a Ward is like policing New York City. Sometimes you have to work outside the Council's rule book."

I had to admit, I liked the Captain. "Alright Mr. Bailey; do your magic."

Bailey spent a few minutes on his console and then looked up at me. "Done. You're good to go. Also, you have access to carry any weapons here on the Citadel; along with any of your friends."

I shook Bailey's hand again. "Thank you for everything, Captain. I think I'm going to head up to the Presidium and go visit Councilor Anderson."

"I'm sure the Council would like to know that one of their Spectres is still kicking. The main elevator to the Presidium is out, so you will have to take a shuttle. You can catch one just over there," He pointed. "And if you have any questions, please... feel free to stop by."

"Thank you," I said as I bowed my head before walking away with Garrus in tow.

"Hey Shepard?"

Yeah?"

"What's a poodle?"


The twenty minute shuttle ride to the Presidium was nerve-wrecking. I was excited yet somewhat scared to see my father. Was he angry or disappointed in me? I was happy to have Garrus with me, because I wasn't sure I could face dad or the Council on my own.

We landed at the embassies and the doors to the shuttle opened. Garrus stepped out and then turned to looked at me. I was still sitting in the shuttle. "You okay?"

I looked up at him. "I feel sick."

"You'll be just fine," He said as he offered his hand. "He's going to be very happy to see you."

I took a deep breath and grabbed Garrus's hand as he helped me out of the shuttle. We made our way to the main desk of the embassies and I looked around to see if Saphyria was still working here; but I didn't see her.

"Welcome to the embassies." A female human said as she approached me. "How can I assist you?"

"Yes, I am looking for Saphyria. Does she still work here?"

The woman looked at me for a moment and then lowered her head. "I'm sad to say that she was killed during the attack on the Citadel two years ago."

My heart skipped. "Wh- what?"

"I'm very sorry."

I closed my eyes for a moment and then opened them. "Is Councilor Anderson in his office?"

"Yes," she nodded. "Up the flight of stairs and to your right."

"Thank you." I nodded as I went up the stairs and into the office that used to be Ambassador Udina's.

I didn't notice him right away, but when I did, my heart skipped a beat. He was leaning against the balcony, his back towards me. He was dressed in a very elegant blue suit. He must have heard the doors open because he turned to me. I raced to him, almost knocking him over as I wrapped my arms around his neck.

"Katie." He said softly as he embraced me.

"Dad." I said as I squeezed him tighter.

We embraced for a few moments before we stepped back and looked at each other. He ran both of his hands over my face. "I can't believe you're here."

I placed my hands on his. "I'm here."

He smiled and then embraced me one more time. "You're going to have to tell me the story behind your beautiful blue eyes. My place, dinner... no exceptions."

I couldn't help but smile. "I would love to."

Anderson then looked at Garrus. "It's good to see you, Vakarian."

"It's good to see you, sir. And..." Garrus let out a sigh. "I want to apologize for running off without talking to you. I was..."

Anderson lifted his hand. "There is no need to explain; I understand."

"Councilor, the Council is on standby waiting for you." came a woman's voice over the comm.

"Go ahead and put them through, Alyssa. Thank you."

I looked up to see the Council appear on a holographic terminal.

"Councilor Anderson, I hope this meeting isn't going to be a waste of my time." replied the turian.

I sighed... well he hasn't changed.

"I called you here because I represent the voice of humanity and the Alliance. As you all heard, Shepard has returned." He took a step to the side, revealing me. "And I think it's fair that before you judge her... she should make her own case."

"Thank you." I said.

"Commander Shepard," Smiled Tevos, the asari councilor. "It's nice to see you again."

"We've heard many rumors surrounding your unexpected return. Some of them are... unsettling." replied Valern, the salarian councilor.

"We would like you to explain your actions, Shepard. We owe you that much. After all, you saved our lives in the battle against Saren and his geth." Tevos nodded.

"Saren and his geth?" I sighed. "You know damn well Saren wasn't the one commanding the geth. It was Sovereign, the Reaper."

"Ah, yes. 'Reapers'. The immortal race of sentient starships allegedly waiting in dark space. We have dismissed that claim." Sparatus, the turian councilor, said as he flicked his hand.

"Are you serious?" I took a step forward.

"Katie," Anderson said as I turned to him. "No one else encountered the hologram on Ilos that told you the truth about the Reapers. Only you and your crew ever spoke with Sovereign. I believe you, but without evidence form another source, the others think Saren was behind the geth attacks."

I looked at the three councilor stooges. "Go back to Ilos and talk to Vigil. Or just look at what's left of Sovereign! It's obvious the technology is more advanced than ours!"

"The hologram on Ilos is no longer functional, and we have found nothing to suggest that Sovereign was not a geth creation." Valern commented.

"The geth are capable of remarkable technological achievements. This is probably why Saren recruited them." Tevros stated.

"This Reaper theory proves just how fragile your mental state is. You have been manipulated; by Cerberus, and before them, Saren." Sparatus said.

I shook my head. "You three really do have your heads up your butt puckers!" I would have to thank Rupert later for that line. "Saren was an organic! The geth would never accept him as their leader. He was Sovereign's agent!"

"Saren was a compelling and charismatic individual. He convinced the geth that the Reapers were real... just as he convinced you." Trevos said.

I threw up my hands. "Here we are two years later and you are still not getting it through your heads." I looked at Sparatus. "What would Nihlus think of your actions, Councilor?"

The turians eyes grew big. "Don't you dare bring him into this, Commander! The Reapers are a myth. One you insist on perpetuating!"

"You know what? I deserve better than this. I kept Saren from conquering the Citadel. I sacrificed human lives to save this Council! Why won't you believe me? Why would you want to take that chance?" I shook my head. "Palaven, Thessia, Earth, Sur'Kesh... they're all at risk if we don't do something to stop-"

"Shepard," Trevos interrupted. "We are in a difficult position. You are working for Cerberus, an avowed enemy of the Council. This is treason, a capital offense.

"That's too far!" Anderson said as he took a step forward. "Shepard is a hero. I'm on this Council, too, and I won't let this whitewash continue!"

I nodded. "I'm not working for Cerberus. I'm working with them to help human colonists who you and the Alliance have abandoned!"

The three councilors sighed. Then Trevos nodded. "Alright, Shepard. Maybe we can make a compromise. Not a public acknowledgement, given your ties, but something to show peripheral support."

"If you keep a low profile and stick to your operations in the Terminus Systems, the Council is willing to offer you reinstatement as a Spectre." Sparatus said.

"Reinstatement?"

"Yes, this is a show of good faith on our part." Valern nodded.

"We cannot become involved in an investigation regarding the missing colonists in the Terminus Sytems. But Spectre reinstatement shows our support of you personally.

"But you're not supporting me." I stated. "You just told me you don't even believe the Reaper threat is real."

"This isn't about the Reaper threat, Shepard. This is about you helping your people. Trevos said.

I let out a sigh. "Then I accept your offer. Thank you."

Trevos nodded. "Good luck with your investigation, Shepard. We hope for a quick resolution... and a quick end to your relationship with Cerberus."

As they disappeared from the holographic terminal, Anderson let out a sigh. "Well. That went better than I expected."

"I still can't believe they don't think the Reaper threat is true." I turned to my father. "We have to do something."

"I know, Katie. Unfortunately, by the time they really do believe you... it will be too late. And the Council's offer is just symbolic. They won't actually do anything."

"You keep saying, they... but you're a part of that team too."

Anderson shook his head. "No, I'm not. You would think so... but I'm just a fish out of water compared to them."

I placed my hand on my father's arm. "No, you have an important voice. Keep shouting at them. Sooner or later, they will have to listen."

Just then the doors to Anderson’s office opened and we turned to see who had entered. I let out a moan. It was Udina.

"Anderson, we need to talk about-" He stopped mid-sentence as he looked at me. "Shepard! What are you doing here?"

"Not used to seeing ghosts, Udina?" I smirked.

"I'd... heard you were alive, of course. But I didn't expect to see you back on the Citadel."

"And why wouldn't I come back? My father is here."

"I had Shepard speak with the Council. We just finished our meeting." Anderson replied.

Udina's eyes grew big. "You what? Councilor, do the words 'political shit-storm' mean anything to you?"

"Relax Udina. The Council reinstated my Spectre status. They're just happy I'm staying out in the Terminus Systems."

Udina rubbed his temple and then sighed. "Yes, I could see how that arrangement works best for both sides... but Councilor, you really shouldn't have taken that step without consulting me first."

"I don't answer to you, Udina!" Anderson snapped. "Why don't you go to your office and think about that for a while?"

Udina sighed. "Of course, Councilor. Good day to both of you."

Udina grumbled his way out of the office as I turned to my father. "You know, just for old time’s sake... I would have loved to see you punch him."

Anderson laughed. "I bet you would. He's never gotten over the fact that I got the Council position instead of him. Sometimes I need to put him in his place."

"Can't you just fire him or something?" I shrugged

Anderson smiled at me. "He's got his uses. And if you want something done on the Citadel, he knows who can make it happen. Plus, he's always happy to attend all those formal diplomatic functions I can't be bothered with."

Anderson walked over to the balcony. I heard him take a deep breath.

"Are you mad at me?" I asked.

He turned with a shocked look. "What?"

I pulled a 'Tali' and fumbled my hands. "I just... your letter. It seemed... like maybe you were upset with me. I..."

"No, no." He said as he walked to me and grabbed my hand. "I could never in a million years be upset with you."

I sighed in relief. "I thought maybe you would be mad at me for helping Cerberus."

"No, I am not mad. I don't trust them, but I know you're doing whatever it takes to save lives. You've always been like that, and I am very proud of you." He gently pushed a strand of hair away from my face and tucked it behind my ear.

I hugged him; happy to know that he wasn't upset. "There is so much I want to talk to you about."

"And that is why we're going to have dinner tonight. Just the two of us."

I smiled. "I can't wait." Then I paused for a moment. "Dad, where's Kaidan? I heard he was promoted but no one can tell me where he is."

Anderson frowned. "I'm sorry, Katie. He's on a top secret mission. I... I can't tell you; not while you're with Cerberus."

I gulped. "But... I need to see him. I..."

"I know you do." Anderson sighed. "I'll try to make an arrangement; but it might be awhile."

"Thank you." I then looked at Garrus. "We probably should get going. I have a few things I need to do. What time do you want me over?" I asked my father.

"1900." Anderson said.

"I'll be there. Oh, and Joker says hello." I squeezed his hand one more time.

Anderson lifted a brow. "Joker? You've seen him?"

I looked at him oddly. "You don't know?"

Anderson shook his head. "Know what? Steve and I have been trying to get a hold of him for almost 10 months. We've always gotten a bunch of political bull shit. I contacted Dr. Chakwas about six months ago, but she didn't know where he was either. Which is odd since she was his doctor for almost ten years."

I let out a sigh. "Dad, they grounded him. They wouldn't let him fly. Cerberus offered him a job to fly their new ship. So he took it. He's a part of my team now; as is Karin."

Anderson sighed. "Damn; what the hell is going on?" He placed his hands on his hips. "I'll contact Steve. See if we can figure out what really happened."

"I would appreciate it." I smiled. "I'll see you later."


About fifteen minutes later, Garrus and I stepped onto Level 27 of Zakera Ward.

"Come on, let's go see if we can find you a nice set of armor that doesn't have a chunk missing from it."

"Shepard, this really isn't necessary. My old armor is just fine, and it can remind me that I'm not invincible."

"If you're going to have my back while we're out killing bugs, I want you to be well equipped. Besides, Miranda gave me an extra allowance. So let's go spend some Cerberus coin!"

"Oh, well when you put it like that..." Garrus chuckled.

"Oh look," I said as I pointed to a store. "There is a cafe over there. I need to see if they have any groceries for Rupert."

I entered the small store and heard the turian clerk that was behind a counter and a human talking.

"I hear this is the best place for food on Zakera Ward." The human customer beamed.

"You heard wrong," The turian said. "This is the best place for food on the whole damn Citadel."

After the human customer was done talking to the turian, I took a step forward. "Hello, do you deliver?"

"We do."

"Excellent, I would like to order some food and have it delivered to my ship."

"Sure thing," He pointed to the kiosk. "You can order what you need there and we will have it delivered to you within five hours."

"Thank you," I nodded as I went to the kiosk.

I looked over Rupert's list and checked off the items. Then I paid the 500 credits and walked out. "Now since that's done, let's head up to the next level and see what we can find." I smiled at Garrus.

"Wouldn't it be better if we just got a map of the place?"

"What? Where's your sense of adventure?"

"I left it behind on Omega." Garrus said bluntly.

Just then I couldn't help but overhear two krogan talking.

"I heard that those lakes on the Presidium are filled with fish." One said licking his lips as he rubbed his belly.

"No, they're not!" The other one argued.

"Have you ever been up there?"

"No. C-Sec won't let me. They say I'm a risk."

“They think every krogan is dangerous." the krogan lowered his head.

I turned to Garrus. "Do the lakes really have fish?"

Garrus shook his head. "No, they're water preserves."

Then I turned to hear the krogan talking again. "If it's true... I wonder what a Presidium fish would taste like."

"I'm telling you, Kargesh. There are no fish up there."

"I heard an Urdnot went up there once. I wonder if he had one."

The other krogan laughed. "Ha! An Urdnot on the Presidium? That'll be the day."

I lifted my finger, but Garrus grabbed my arm. "You don't want to piss off a hungry krogan, Shepard. Let them believe there are fish up there."

I looked at the two krogan and sighed. "Fine, fine... you're probably right. So the lakes are water preserves?"

"I don't know much about them, but yeah."

Across the way, there was a store that said Citadel Souvenirs. "Oooo Garrus, let's go in there."

"Shepard, I don't think-" I didn't let him finish as I grabbed his hand and dragged him in. An asari dressed in a Citadel uniform bowed her head gently.

"Good day, my friends. Welcome to Citadel Souvenirs. How can I assist you?"

"I would like to buy something. What do you have in stock?" I smiled.

"To make a purchase, browse our electronic catalog over there. Anything you buy, we will deliver to your ship with no extra cost. If you have any questions, please let me know."

"Thank you." I went over to the kiosk and almost choked at the prices. "Holy crap!" I looked at the asari. "You're prices are way too high for the quality of merchandise you sell here."

"I am sorry you feel that way," The asari said. "There are many stores on the Citadel. Perhaps another would be more in your price range."

I blinked. What did she just say? I turned to Garrus. "Did she just say what I thought she said?"

Garrus nodded. "I think she just called you poor, Shepard."

"What?" The asari gasped. "I didn't-"

"Just because I'm not as well off as you doesn't mean you can hold yourself above me." I crossed my arms.

"No, I didn't mean to-"

"HEY EVERYBODY!" I yelled from outside the store. "This store discriminates against the poor!"

The turian and asari customers that were in the store with me turned. "What?"

"No-no-no!" The asari employee gasped. "Please, please... calm down. As an apology, I'll let you have my station employee discount. Is that acceptable?"

The asari looked really nervous. I shrugged and nodded. "All right, but you still hurt my feelings."

"Please, enjoy your shopping experience." The asari nodded as she ran her hand over her console.

I looked over at the kiosk one more time. There was a model of the Normandy SR1 and the Destiny Ascension.

"Ooo, these will go well with my SR2 model I have in my cabin." I continued to look through the catalog and smiled as they also had some fish for sale. "Illium Skald Fish, I can add those to my aquarium." Then I turned to Garrus. "Or I can be mean and just give it to that krogan and tell him it's from the Presidium lakes."

Garrus looked at me. "Shepard..."

"Okay, okay... I won't. But you know if Ash was here, she would have done it."

"That, we can agree upon."

We departed the store with a smile on my face. "I can't believe we got a discount. Thanks for backing me up there."

"Well it was true. She did call you poor."

Just then I heard my name and I turned to see a familiar turian standing just before me. His piercing green eyes were staring into mine. He was dressed in a C-Sec uniform, and his green markings were just as beautiful as I had remembered.

"Kate?"

"Tylaris?"

Ty came to me and picked me up. "Kate!" He laughed, swinging me around a couple of times.

I couldn’t help but hold onto him tightly. "Ty!"

He sat me down. "I can't believe it's you." He ran his hand over my cheek. "What happened to your eyes; they're so..."

"Blue... I know. It's a long story."

"Why did you disappear? Why didn't you stay in contact?" I could hear the hurt in his voice.

"I didn't have a choice. I was dead. Two years went by and I didn't even know it. It's a long story. What about you? Look at yourself. I don't see a C-Sec recruit anymore."

Tylaris stood proudly. "I'm a lieutenant now." he nodded. "After the attack, they needed all the bodies they could get. The first six months you went missing, I worked hard. I finally got the attention of Commander Chellick and he promoted me. I work under Captain Bailey now." Then Ty looked at Garrus and he saluted. "Sir, it's nice to see you again."

Garrus smiled. "It's nice to see you, Lieutenant. Congratulations on your promotion."

"Thank you, sir. What are you two doing on the Citadel?"

"I had to come see my father and the Council. Also," I pointed to Garrus. "Due to a minor accident on Omega, we need to get him new armor."

Ty looked at Garrus. "I wasn't going to ask about the scars..."

"Short story. Rocket to the face."

"Like a boss." I added.

Garrus and Ty looked at me oddly and then Ty nodded. "Glad you made it out alive, sir. As for new armor, you should go talk to Etarn Tiron on deck 28. Tell him I sent you. He can give you my discount. He has great armor and hunting accessories."

"Thank you, Lieutenant." Garrus said.

I grabbed Ty's hand and squeezed it. "Next time I'm here, I'll message you. You and I are going to have a dinner date."

"I would love that." Ty saluted Garrus one more time than grabbed my hand and placed his mouth upon it. "Until then." He said.

I watched as Ty left and then looked at Garrus. "Sooooo, was it your doing?"

"My doing of what?"

"His promotion?"

We headed up the stairs to deck 28. "I think he did that all on his own. I just told Chel to keep an eye out for him. He's a great officer."

"That he is."

When we reached level 28, I noticed the store Ty was talking about right away. 'Rodam Expeditions'. I entered the store with Garrus in tow and went right to the turian behind the counter. He looked up from his pad and nodded.

"Hello, what can I do for you?"

"My good friend told me that you sell excellent armor. I need to get a set for my friend here." I pointed to Garrus. "Can you help us out?"

"You bet, we got some great turian armor. If you look through this catalog here, we can get you set up."

Garrus nodded as he grabbed a pad from the turian. As Garrus was going through, I looked up the turian and smiled.

"Also, think we can get a discount on it? My friend Tylaris told me to drop his name."

Etarn looked at me. "Tylaris Andryk?"

"Yeah, I'm Commander Shepard and I'm very good friends of-"

"Wait, you're THEE Commander Shepard?" I couldn't help but nod. Etarn raised his hands. "Spirits, Commander Shepard in my shop! You bet I will give you a discount!"

"Thank you," I smiled, Then I leaned in. "So, what kind of other things you do you sell here besides turian armor and weapons?"

"Quality hunting supplies; which you'll need when you purchase one of our Adventure Travel packages. Imagine it, Shepard:" Etarn held up his hand like he was holding a gun. "The break of day. You and your team have been stalking a shatha for five days. In that time, it's killed four men." He then ducked behind his counter and I carefully leaned over to see what he was doing. Then he jumped up. "You see it. Line it up. Take the shot. BLAM! It's down." He raised both of his arms. "You're the hero!" He then smiled. "That's what we offer. Not a vacation, but an experience!"

I couldn't help but laugh. "That's almost daily for me."

"So what is the Commander Shepard up too these days?"

"The usual;" I shrugged. "Killing the scum of the universe."

The turian leaned towards me. "Bring me back a geth's head, would you? I'd like to turn one into a desk lamp."

I smirked. "I'll see what I can do."

"Hey, Shepard." I turned to Garrus. "I think I want this one." He pointed out the armor set. "It's a new military-grade set. Of course I will choose the blue one if it's in stock, with the blue lights and a dual-input communication headset. I will keep my old visor, however."

"I think it will look good on you." I nodded. Then I turned to Etarn. "Do you have the new 38 military grade armor in blue?"

He nodded. "You bet, I will send it to your ship. Should be there within the day."

I walked over to the kiosk to pay, then shook the turian's hand. "It was a pleasure doing business with you. Thank you for the discount."

"Anytime, have a great day."

When we walked out of the store, I heard a salarian call out. "Come buy you're free 'Galaxy Fantasy' game with a purchase of three games or more. Limited time offer."

I looked at Garrus for a moment before shaking my head and started to wander around. I looked up at a prompter that displayed an asari reporter. I couldn't help but stand there for a few minutes, listening to the news.

"The attack on the human colony of Freedom's Progress has generated a swift but confused response. Aid vessels have been sent, but it is not clear whether there are survivors. The Council..."

I turned to Garrus as the news continued to broadcast. "That's where I found Tali. She was there. There was nothing on Freedom's Progress but renegade mechs, a kitten, and a quarian."

"Don't worry, Shepard. We'll find those missing colonists..."

I let out a sigh. "I hope so."

"The Colony of Mindoir has won the right to use Commander Shepard's likeness on its colonial seal. The Commander's family was killed in a slave attack, but Shepard has maintained ties to the colony."

"Actually, I haven't." I bluntly said. "I haven't stepped foot on Mindoir since the incident happened."

Garrus shrugged. "It gives the people on Mindoir hope again. If I was a part of that colony, I would be proud to have lived there... because of you."

"I'm sorry, Garrus. I just don't agree." I shook my head. "When you lose everything you have... you never want to relive that... or be remembered by people who give you awards for something you had no choice in doing.”

"You're being too hard on yourself;" Garrus said as he placed his hand on my arm. "You're a hero... and Mindoir is happy to show that even a little colony can have big heroes."

I let out a sigh, then turned as I heard my name being called from across the way.

"Commander Shepard! Commander Shepard! Commander, the people want to hear your story." I let out a sigh as I saw a female reporter approach me with her camera. "Khalisah bin Sinan al-Jilani, Westerland News." She offered her hand but I just looked at her, crossing my arms. "I interviewed you two years ago, when you first became a Spectre." I continued to glare at her. "You presented your case very well on camera. Do you have a minute?"

"The last time I 'gave you a minute', you spent the whole time trying to make me look like I was selling out Earth to the Council."

"And you proved me wrong in the end," Jilani said with a smile. "Now that you're resurfaced, you're news again. I just want to give your story its due." She looked down at her data pad.

After a few moments of turning on the camera and collecting herself, the reporter looked at me. "Sources claim you were at the heart of the Presidium during the Battle of the Citadel. It's fair to say the course of the battle hinged on your words. If true, you told Admiral Hackett to assist the Destiny Ascension, costing hundreds of human lives and securing the continued dominance of the Citadel Council and the push to have your father, Admiral David Anderson, as the first human councilor."

I sighed. "Saving everyone only happens in movies. There is always casualties in war, a good leader knows this and so does the soldier on the ground."

"But why did you tell Hackett to assist the Destiny Ascension?"

I gritted my teeth. "Humans weren't the only ones to die that day. The turians lost 20 cruisers. Figure each had a crew of around 300. The Ascension had a crew of nearly 10,000. So let's use that brain of yours for a moment. What is 300x20?"

"6,000."

"So you're telling me that during the battle of the Citadel, the turians lost six thousand men?"

"Shepard, we're not here to talk about the turians; we are here to talk-"

"NO!" I shouted, taking a step forward. "You're here to pick a fight again, Miss. al-Jilani! You're not going to turn this around and make me at fault for something that HAD to be done! Don't you dare suggest I made that call lightly! I won't let you disrespect anyone who gave their life that day. Turians. Humans. Salarians. Hell, even the damn hanar! They're hero’s, all of them."

Garrus took a step between myself and al-Jilani. "Now would be a good time to just walk away. Before she punches you in the face."

"Great, bull-rushed on my show." She sighed as she walked away with her camera.

Garrus turned and looked at me as tears began to form. I was angry. No. I was beyond angry. I was furious. He placed his hand on my shoulder. "Shepard, it's okay... she's gone ."

"I remember them, Garrus. We had lost eight cruisers. Shenyang. Emden. Jakarta. Cairo. Seoul. Cape Town. Warsaw. Madrid." I took a deep breath. "I need a drink."

Garrus smiled as he pointed to a night club across the street. "Well you're in luck, we're not too far from a drink with your name on it. Come on, I'll buy."