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[sH0tgUn jUliA]

Selani left the conference room and went up to the office in her quarters and filled out the documents needed to process the disciplinary actions she was taking. Jenus and Yeoman Triana were under her direct command, so the punitive action was forfeiture of one week's pay as allowed under Asari Military Code for a non-court martial offense. She wrote a memo to Spectre T'sarius recommending the same action taken for Irina Sloane. The Batarian, she felt acted properly, but used excessive force and needed training to integrate with the ship's security. Again, since he was not under her command, she could only make a recommendation. This was supposed to be a military ship, not a luxury liner, and people needed to start pulling their weight.

[TheMajonese]

On the Citadel

 

Arian stood next to the entrance of the shop that Talid had just entered with his bodyguards and carefully listened to the words that were spoken inside. The people around didn't take any notice of him but it seemed that his appearance caused them to quickly move on instead of entering the shop.

 

By now, Vayne and Tallis were probably far away from here and Arian didn't need to keep an eye on the blood pack members any longer. But he couldn't help but clench his fists when he heard the words of the turian.

 

He detested people like Talid who needed three armored guards to intimidate someone and press them for money. That's why Arian liked the arena fights on Omega; there were rules and every fight was supposed to be fair and winnable for both opponents. Of course there were no rules in a war but this woman was just a shop keeper and the turian was just a petty criminal. It wasn't a war and the bodyguards made this a pretty one-sided confrontation. The worst part was that Talid would easily get away with this. Nobody was aware of this situation and could help the human. Well...except for Arian.

 

But he wasn't going to interfere. It was always better to not get involved with these things. C-Sec would be responsible for this, not a former mercenary that now unofficially worked for a spectre. He had other things to do.

 

And still he hesitated to just walk away. Arian hadn't regretted helping Vayne so far. Furthermore this wasn't a situation about life and death like Vayne's problem was. It probably wouldn't even take long to solve this issue here... With a heavy sigh the turian moved to enter the shop. But after this I'm not going to help anyone else, he swore to himself as he approached Talid and the bodyguards.

 

Arian casually leaned against one of the shelves so he could see Talid and the three bodyguards and crossed his arms. "Is there a problem?", he asked as if he didn't know what was going on.

[Redbelle]

"A difficult position councillor. But not one that I am in a position to aid you with".

 

Udina sat in Tevos's office. Not by his choice being on her turf while he tried to get hold of the footage form the Janiri but Tevos had bluntly refused to come to his until he explained in full what the request was about.

 

"It may soon be a position you wish you were able to help in". He chided as he leaned back in one of her seats as she sat across him behind her desk. "That this incident occurred aboard one of your ships is unfortunate. That it occurred on one of these new vessels I have been kept in the dark about is unacceptable. As you know the media control much in how the public sees our armed forces. Your new vessel, and the ones coming out of the ship yards could well be tainted by the closed door approach you are taking in maintaining secrecy".

 

"Councillor, I hope you came here with more than just empty words. One journalist can easily be lost in the sea of information the media machine produces".

 

"Not if the story fans embers of those we' would like to keep from popping up and spreading".

 

"Having trouble keeping your people in check"?

 

"If I recall.... you voted yes to having a Terra Firma presence on this station. Since they arrived it has been increasingly difficult to keep them down".

 

"It was a favour. Your opponent's are now in plane sight and must fight by the rules. If you handle them delicately you won't have issues with their presence here".

 

"Unless your people stir up our journalists, discover Batarians on one of these new vessels and prompt that journalist to issue a story that set back relations with our peoples while they wonder if the Asari have decided to back another horse".

 

"Councillor, one Batarian is hardly enough to write home about. And if I recall the reports there are two humans serving aboard that vessel".

 

"An outcast and an anomaly. Hardly the figure heads any would choose to represent the human race. Their presence was unauthorised and.....".

 

"Special circumstances councillor. Spectre Authority you understand....".

 

"An Authority you have prevented any more humans from taking responsibility for while you process Asari, Turian and Salarian candidates on an almost weekly basis. I've noticed the ranks of the Spectre's swelling quickly of late".

 

"We simply have a large crop of promising candidates....".

 

"Spare me. Since I took my seat of the council I have been aware of a great many things going by without my input. Spectre candidacy being one of them".

 

"We don't want to overburden you".

 

"More like you want me close but not to close".

 

"Udina.... This paranoia does not become you".

 

Udina levelled a disapproving glare at Tevos. "The footage of the assault will be required. As an act of good faith if nothing else. I have beeb informed that the story is ready to air. They have what they need....".

 

"And adding footage will make it better for us"? Tevos asked incredulously.

 

"It will show the public that we as the council are appalled by the standards our military have slipped down too. The act of giving out the footage will show we will act in the best interests of justice. That we ourselves have the moral right to lead by not protecting those who hide in the shadows. This is a case off assault. That is what the media will report. And we can either be accomplice to that, or stamp on the notion that the council favours it's military more than it's public".

 

"The military might not like us aiding in a case against them". Tevos pointed out.

 

"They will like that one of their own disgraced their uniform more. As well as serve as a reminder that they serve. Both the government and the people and the rule of law. Time is counting down and my people will soon discover a powder keg that will ignite passions in them through one simple act of betrayal of my peoples faith in your military. It is time to act. Before the story gather momentum we cannot hold back or direct".

 

"A fair argument Coucillor. But not one that is prone to sway me in my decision to keep the footage under wraps".

 

"The civilian courts are already waiting to formally ask for it".

 

"We can downplay the motion".

 

Udina straightened. "Then if the motion is to much for you and the other councillor cope with, I will gladly stand with you and give it the full attention it requires".

 

Tevos blinked. "Excuse me"?

 

"I have expressed an interest to the courts in knowing when exactly this motion will be brought to the council so that the galaxy may witness the solidarity of the council in this matter. I have personally given a news team full access to the hall and seen to it that C-Sec know to let them in at the time the civilian court makes it's case. Understand, it is simply because I feel you and the other councillors are so inundated with other matters that I fear you will not be able to give this matter your full attention and so I will be taking that load off your shoulders being the voice of reason and justice in ensuring that the citizens hear how disappointed I am regarding the actions of one of your soldiers. I trust with the eye's of the galaxy on you, you can agree with the sentiment that all people in the galxy are entitled to security of the self"?

 

Tevos eye's narrowed. "A desperate and weak move councillor".

 

"Can I take it that you will reconsider giving out the footage before the fanfare's begin"?

 

Tevos looked off to the side for a moment. "I will look into it. But only the footage of the matter you described. If the content's of that footage breach the secrets and security act....".

 

"Then you will be laughed down for trying to tell the public that your ship corridors constitute a security threat if recorded".

 

"You should handle your press better Udina".

 

"Your military is the one that handled them councillor. Now I'm here trying to clean up your mess". Udina stood and straightened his jacket. "I will let you get to work. I expect results shortly before the media pull the trigger on this story and we all look like laughing stocks. Good day councillor".

 

Tevos watched him leave and then sunk her head into the palms of her hands before reaching over to her desk terminal. "Find me the commanding officer of the Janiri and tell them I urgently need to speak to them". She told the person on the other side of the comm. Then she sat back and closed her eye's in a meditative trance.

 

Udina always worked her up towards needing meditation.

[Kel Riever]

Jenus was half way back to her cabin when the result of her disciplinary action came in over her omni-tool.  She looked at it and snorted.  "Dock my pay.  My varren s**t pay.  What in the void do they want on this ship?  Mall police?"

Making an even more disgusted snarl, Jenus shook it off.  She was really more expecting to have to haul ammo around the hangar or something similar.  It actually would have been more her thing.  Instead was some button pusher's idea which was a note in her record and some loss of money.  The note was a pain, because she might be looked over for a promotion.  If she cared about that.  She just wanted to do exactly what she already did, be a Commando.

"I guess they should transfer in some prissy, little admirals daughter who couldn't shoot the broad side of a building but is great at a party."

Jenus rolled her eyes and couldn't for once decide where she wanted to go.

[sH0tgUn jUliA]

VERA notified Commander Selani that Councilor Tevos wished to see her at her earliest convenience. That meant immediately. Selani was seated at her desk. She leaned back and hit the intercom button.

 

“Did she say what it was about?” Selani asked.

 

“She did not. Given the series of events that have occurred aboard this vessel, one could draw a logical conclusion that it has to do with either the jet bike incident involving C-sec or the reporter,” VERA stated. “If I were a gambling VI, I would put my credits on the latter.”

 

“VERA, you’re doing a very poor job of concealing the fact that you are not simply a VI,” Selani sighed. “I know the Spectre had you installed on the ship and you’ve been a great improvement over the standard unit that was here. So just cut the crap, and come clean with me. You’re an AI. You’ve saved our butts, and you’re a team player. That’s good enough by me. She’ll probably want the video. What do you suggest?”

 

VERA’s image popped up on her terminal. She was smoking a cigarette and raised her eyebrow. “Could we not make the video go ‘poof’?”

 

“I’d like to make the incident go ‘poof,’ but we can’t do that. It’ll raise even more questions. I need to delay things until Naleena gets back. She’s really at fault for all of this. She should have let me know what was going on. Now I have this mess I’m stuck in the middle of. And it’s going to look bad for me no matter what I do.”

 

 “Protocol,” VERA replied. “You have disciplined those responsible in accordance with Asari Military Code. If you want to delay matters until the boss returns, observe the chain of command.”

 

“Of course. Thank you, VERA.”

 

Selani closed the terminal, put on her dress blues, and headed over to Councilor Tevos’ office, data pad in hand with the Asari Naval Regulations bookmarked.

 

Councilor Tevos sat behind her elaborate desk when Commander Selani entered. Selani walked and stood directly across from the Councilor at attention.

 

“Please, be seated, Commander,” Tevos said gesturing with her hand toward one of the chairs in front of her desk.

 

“Thank you, Ma’am,” Selani replied and took a seat.

 

“I’m sure you are aware of the incident that occurred aboard your ship between members of your crew, the Spectre’s team and Amy Babylon, a reporter for Terra Firma,” Tevos said. “Ms. Babylon has lodged a complaint with Councilor Udina who has expressed an interest in pursuing this matter in the courts. I cannot tell you how much damage this incident can do to our program.

 

“Ms. Babylon alleges there are Batarians serving onboard. This I know is true because I approved the individual’s presence. He has taken the oath, renounced his association with the Hegemony, and signed all necessary documents. We are not a racist people,” Tevos continued with her hands folded on her desk, “However there are great tensions between Earth and the Batarians at the moment. Ms. Babylon alleges mistreatment and the use of excessive force by the Asari Military against a reporter. She demands the security camera videos of the incident.

 

“I have done my best to stall them, but it appears I have no choice but to ask you to comply with their request. I expect to have the video recordings transferred to my custody by the end of this business day.”

 

Selani sat stoically. “I cannot do that, Ma’am.”

 

“Why not?”

 

“It would be a violation of Asari Military regs.,” Selani replied and handed her the data pad. “I anticipated what this meeting was about and looked up the regulations. This data pad highlights the regulation: Requests for security footage must be made through the Asari Department of the Navy. The Navy will have to review said footage and censor all potential classified information from it. Off the record, Ma’am, that could take a while.”

 

Tevos closed her eyes, rubbed her forehead and sighed. “In your own words, Commander, what precipitated the incident?”

 

“Ms. Babylon did not have a valid visitor’s pass. My security team viewed her as a possible security threat and subdued her accordingly, Ma’am,” Selani said. “With anyone other than a reporter, this would have been a non-incident.”

 

Tevos looked up at Selani with some hope. “Then is it possible for you to get me a single frame that shows Ms. Babylon without the visitor’s pass?”

 

“I’m sorry, Ma’am. As much as I would like, I cannot without violating the chain of command. The regulations are clear. There is a review procedure,” she replied. “Narrowing your request would speed up the review process. Of course you could always stall Udina until T’sarius returns.”

 

“How long?”

 

“Two weeks. The Janiri is scheduled for dry dock on Thessia at the Armali Shipyards in 24 hrs. Sorry, but we’re leaving,” Selani said. “Orders. We never said we wouldn’t cooperate. There are proper procedures that must be followed. Udina is a bureaucrat. He should know. The reporter just wants the video to put it on the 24 hour news cycle and embarrass the Asari Navy.”

 

“Very well, Commander,” Tevos replied. “I’ll stall Udina, but you’d better not be holding anything back.”

 

With that, Selani stood, and turned with a smug smile on her face as she exited the room.

[Cainhurst Crow]

Essul had left the conference room, watching Jenus storm off her own direction, and most of the others drift off as well. He looked to Anika as he overheard her comment, shaking his head as he spoke.

 

"Maybe...I don't feel very lucky myself..." He commented as he stuck his hands in his pockets, "Once, just once...I wish we could go a single shore leave without something going wrong..."

 

"Know what I mean?" He asked Anika, honestly feeling like she might be one of the few on this ship he could talk to like a civilized, normal person. No dancing on a knifes edge or watching his words about it.

 

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Vayne made his way up the stairs, coming out towards the dock the Janiri was docked in and letting out a sigh of relief, "Finally..." He said, making his way towards the c-sec checkpoint. He didn't need to go through much hops after this, just in and out. Or so he hoped.

 

Coming to the gates, he looked to the scanner, stepping up into it as he waited for the scan to finish. As he did so, however, there seemed to be a delay. Then a longer one.

 

"What's the hold up, officers?" Vayne asked as the c-sec officers within the control booth looked to each other.

 

"Sir...we're going to have to have you step off to the side for a sec. There seems to b something wrong with the scanner." One of them said. Vayne narrowed his eye but complied, walking to a bit off to the side as he waited for them to finish, and keeping his hand on his gun just in case the whole time.

 

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

 

The sight was like something out of a science fiction story. Truly it was, as the massive facility overlooked what must have been one of the biggest vessels Machaera had ever seen. The massive black ship, oddly insect like in design, and its odd 5 fingered structure, could only have been one of the ships that attacked the citadel.

 

The buzzing in his comms continued as irritating background noise, glancing to one of the scientists who worked on the reaper. "How much data had you collected on this thing before it was lost?" He asked.

 

"Years worth. Entire terrabytes of studies, experiments, and breakthroughs. Most of it was backed up to off-site servers, but there were some invaluable information on the vessels....peculiar properties." The head researcher said as he gazed out next to Machaera, "It is most definitely millions of years old. The material it was composed of like nothing we've ever seen. And it's databanks. It was as if an entire civilization was stored onto this one ship, everything of their race and culture, preserved for us to see..."

 

"Intriguing, truly it is. But what of the preventative security measures? Things to keep this research...safe." Machaera said, choosing his words carefully as he kept his sword drawn at all times. These men had to obey him, but that didn't mean he trusted them. One errant move, and they could join parrathan in an early grave.

 

"There are measures in place, certainly when any high ranking officers arrive. The vessel appears to generate a form of acoustic wavelengths, which influence the auditory and neural centers of the brain. There is also a mild field of radiation, and of course, the nanites. Inert by all observations, but filtered out of the air just for safe measure."  The scientiest gushed as he looked at the thing in awe, a massive mass effect field containing the ship, though evidently not catching all of the background noise. "What's truly fascinating is the degree by which it is required to observe negative effects. A large and direct exposure to material from the ship is needed to suffer any ill consequences. A simple mass effect field and steralized probing equipment is enough to prevent any sort of contamination."

 

"Is that so?" Machaera asked, still keeping his audio filters on, and feeling no rush to take them off any time soon.

 

"Why yes. We had a large amount of data collected on some of the effects of this process. Unfortunately, it was lost during the attack." The head scientist said with a scowl, "All that work. All those brilliant minds deteriorated for nothing...not to mention the cost of bringing in subjects to test on. Luckily some of our more...innovative programs survived. Projects like Amgarak, for example..." He said with a knowing look to Machaera.

 

"So how long till some of these...innovations, can be brought to a head?" Machaera asked as the head scientiest pondered a moment. This was what he was after, after all. The attack just gave him the means to get to it.

 

"Well...the biotics are nearly ready for deployment. You've proven their viability quite a bit, Captain..." The man said with a grin on his face as he continued, "A few of the, ahem, "unconventional weaponry" is still a work in progress. This ships weapons as well have been absolutely fascinating to study. If the turians think they've got something with their Thanix weaponry, they haven't seen anything yet." He said proudly.

 

"I'll believe it when I see it, Doctor Baeron. The recoverable data should do nicely to prove so..." He said, spotting the man about to protest as he spoke quicker then he could answer, "After all, I need to show the higher ups that you've indeed managed to save what you claim to have saved. It's nothing they haven't seen already, correct?"

 

"Well...I suppose that is true...we will however need to go to the servers for that. On the lower level..." Baeron suggested. Bring him closer to the reaper, it seemed. To machaera, the plan itself seemed quite clever, espeically considering his supposed weakness was something the good doctor would know about.

 

Too bad for him, the chip was no longer in Machaera's head.

 

"That sounds delightful...." Machaera said as looked to the door, "Lead on, Doctor. I'm sure it will be an enlightening experience for both of us."

[Kel Riever]

Tallis

There was a sharp whistle from next to Vayne.  The C-Sec officer behind the control booth had a surprised look on his face as he turned towards Tallis.

Tallis whistled again.  Even though the officer was looking right at her.

Sliding past Vayne and to the window, Tallis double pointed at her Omni-tool, activated it, and typed on it furiously.  The officer behind the counter, still recovering a bit from his surprise at the asari, started watching what was being typed.  Tallis brought up a holo-screen that both she and the officer could see.  She pointed at it emphatically, then pointed between Vayne and herself, and said, "Spectre.  Spectre."

With a satisfied grin, Tallis nodded twice and waited for the officer's reaction.  Obviously, she thought he was going to let them move on.

The officer looked at Tallis, then down to his own screen.  When he looked back up at Tallis, the officer did not look happy.

Outside the Medusa

Security was tight enough for the docking bay the Medusa was in to stop the average passerby from sneaking in just to take a look.  After all, it was associated with a Spectre's vessel.  But that didn't stop a certain man from wandering by the entrance to its docking location.  The doors were locked, keyed to an automatic security code given to the crewmembers of the ship.  This man didn't have the code so the door activation light showed up as red for him.  He walked up to it, scowled at it, and walked away.  A few minutes later, he came back, punched the door button to no avail, looked around to see if someone spotted him, and walked away again.

A few minutes later, the man was back, examining the door button.  He cursed under his breath in Japanese, then looked for a nearby café where he could keep an eye on the door inconspicuously.  And get himself a drink to calm his very upset stomach.
 

[Cainhurst Crow]

"Spectre clearance..." The officer said, taking a few seconds to process the information before he got on the computer system, "Alright then....you can pass..." He said, sounding quite hesitant to do so as Vayne looked to tallis and grinned.

 

"That was some fancy work you did there. Usually they don't believe me about serving with a spectre, even with all the right clearances..." Vayne said as he waited for her to catch up with him as he made his way out of the security checkpoint. "Never knew you were that fast."

 

As the two left however, vayne stopped as he caught something in his peripheral. He turned around quickly as he saw someone leaning against the wall outside of the checkpoint. It was a krogan, wearing black armor with red markings on his shoulders, green crest and yellow eyes as he glared daggers at the krogan. The two stared at one another before the krogan got on his comms.

 

"Call off the ambush and get back to your posts...we've lost our chance..." He growled into his comms, staring death at vayne as vayne had his hand on his shotgun, ready to blow this man away like he had many others. "Well played, hooking up with a spectre...contract made it quite clear, your to be hunted only on the stations. Camping outside the docks is a no go..."

 

"...So what were you doing out here? Acting as some sort of groundskeeper?" Vayne asked skeptically, drawing his gun as he held it at the ready, "Don't think I won't kill you just because you called off an ambush."

 

"Tch. Checkpoints don't count as docks...course, if that guard did his job, we could have taken you down..." The other krogan said a he got off the wall, walking towards the entrance as he looked back to vayne, "Unlike you, I have some honor to my name. Ganar Slayt will get his due, and one day the hunt will claim you...until then, you aught to get the hell back to your ship. For I change my mind..."

 

The krogan walked back to c-sec, most likely to deal with the guard he'd payed off to stall things. Vayne swallowed hard, waiting until he was gone to let his hands start to shake, and his breathing to get a bit harder as he worked to keep it cool. He promptly turned around without so much as a word, heading back to the Janiri and hopefully find some booze hard enough to stop his hands from quaking.

[sH0tgUn jUliA]

Naleena

 

After a few hours of sunning myself on the beach and admiring the local scenery with Jess, Priss, and Babe, we packed up and headed back to the spaceport and my shuttle for the trip to Thessia. Jess had made sure to keep Babe from thinking too much about the events earlier and just relax. She was good at doing that, and for once I really appreciated that ability of hers. It felt good to be outside relaxing for a while and getting some fresh air instead of being cooped up on a ship. I realized how much I missed this part of my old life, being able to take three to six months off between jobs and just be an Asari. This made me look forward even more to my week off in that resort on the coast a couple hundred kilometers south of Serrice.

 

When we arrived at the spaceport I bought the three of them stupid little souvenirs from the gift shop. I bought Babe a stuffed pyjak with Nevos embroidered on its back. Priss an Astella, Nevos snow globe – yes, even Asari have them. And I bought Jess a stuffed varren with the local college’s slogan “Go Dogs!” on it. And while we were there I picked up two cases of ambrosia: you can’t beat the local price.

 

The trip to the Parnitha System took about 20 hours. We’d meet the Janiri there. Morgan and Dahlia were making the trip with the Janiri so I’d guess that they were planning a little vacation. Everyone needed one. I pitied Morgan because it would be difficult to find a dirty glass on the entire planet unless he brought his own, and even then the Asari bartender would probably do him a favor and clean it. I looked forward to my visit with Matriarch Syra. I’d leave the group in Armali and travel to Serrice to meet her.

 

“This is Armali Approach, please identify,” the tower controller said.

 

“Council Spectre Naleena T’sarius arriving from Nevos. Entering shuttle identification code,” I replied.

 

“Hope you had a pleasant flight. Please set your shuttle to autopilot. We’ll take it from here,” the controller said.

 

“Copy that. You have the control now.”

 

Watching the city of Armali grow larger through the shuttle window was still a sight to behold. It was amazing how we’d been able to maintain such a low crime rate, low unemployment rate, and had virtually no poverty for such a long period of time. The economy never cycled in the boom – bust like you see on many other worlds. The system was satisfied with what most other worlds would consider meager growth, but for a long lived species like ours it worked out just fine. We weren’t in any hurry.

 

We landed at the space port and even for a large city, it was like landing in a resort. The pace was slow. The people friendly. I really missed this.

[Kel Riever]

Tallis (back on the Citadel)

"No problem.  No problem," Tallis said to Vayne happily.  She noticed his hands and pat him on the shoulder to try and put him at some ease.  After all, everything had seemed to work out.  There was a message that distracted her then coming from the Janiri,  Commander Selani ordering everyone back to the ship to prepare for travel to Thessia.

What Tallis didn't notice is the guard still scowling at them as they left.  He began typing up a report to his supervisor.  The subject line read:  Spectre authority being abused to bypass Citadel Security safety measures.

Iole

Iole had just gotten back onboard from a quick shopping trip herself.  She didn't get much, sent some of her funds to her family, but did return with a number of data cubes.   When she got back to the cabin she shared with the team, she began immediately uploading some of the data directly onto her Omni-tool.  The rest she backed up straight onto the ship's database.

"VERA," Iole asked, "Keep what I'm uploading accessible on my terminal, please.  And please keep the update I'm linking to streaming whenever you can."

The computer screen in the cabin sprung to life and linked to a sports channel keeping Iole abreast of everything happening in jet bike racing world.

"Oh, yes!"  Iole exclaimed in glee as she started scrolling through the pictures and stats of jet bike racers on her Omni-tool.  "This is going to be ultra-amazing!"
 

[sH0tgUn jUliA]

Irina

 

Feeling bad about the jet bike incident in the shuttle bay, she wandered back to Septerax with cleaning materials, mask, and a stiff broom in hand. She'd set up with VERA to make an entry for the jet bike time trials in Armali, but she had to hold off until she talked to Septerax.

 

"What are you doing here? I thought I told you to get to your quarters," Septerax growled.

 

Irina looked at the crew cleaning the flight deck. "Since this is my mess out there, the least I can do is clean it up."

 

"What's the catch? There's always a catch."

 

"No catch. Just fulfilling my responsibilities."

 

"Don't VS me, Sloane. And I know you're VSing me," he said and squinted. "Takes one to know one. What's your angle."

 

"Well, I know we're headed to Armali, and there's a jet bike race. I'd like to enter the time trials."

 

Septerax brought his hand to his forehead, scratched it, and started laughing. "You? You think you have a chance against the pros? And on that toy?"

 

"Hey! They have a division for my bike.... And it's not a street toy. It's been modified. Like you said - barely street legal. And no it's not even street legal. Not here anyway. How do you think I was able to outrun the C-sec interceptors and not crash in the shuttle bay?"

 

"Fair enough. Okay, Sloane. Get out there and start cleaning. I'll release your bike. It'll be fun watching you get your ass handed to you."

 

"Thanks, Chief," Irina said and tapped her omni-tool. "VERA make the entry."

 

Irina trotted out onto the flight deck and began cleaning with enthusiasm.

[sH0tgUn jUliA]

Despite the protests from Councilor Udina, the Janiri dropped out of relay transit in the Parnitha System with the Asari homeworld, the second planet in the system about 4 hours travel time away. It was due to spend a week in dry dock on orders from the Asari Navy. Councilor Tevos had told Udina she would pursue his request up the Navy’s chain of command as required by Asari military code. He was not pleased.

 

The shipyard was outside the large capital city of Armali, the shining jewel of the Asari Republics. The Asari were quite proud of their accomplishments of low crime, low unemployment, and little if any poverty. The pace of life was slow, but that didn’t mean the Asari weren’t hard workers. There were a number of new construction projects underway: new skyscrapers; upgrades to the mass transit system; and construction of a new fusion power plant. The idea that the Asari brought in outside labor to do these types of jobs would be quickly put to rest on arrival. Their high standard of living would be impossible otherwise.

 

As the ship approached Thessia, the control tower contacted its pilot. “This is Armali Control. Please identify.”

 

“This is the CSV Janiri on approach to the Armali Naval Shipyard. Transmitting IFF code,” Pilot Jorril replied.

 

“Code accepted. Welcome to Thessia, Janiri. Please approach on vector 195. Transmitting data now.”

 

“Copy that, Control. Data received and entered. Janiri out.”

 

An hour later, the Janiri, being able to maneuver in atmosphere, made a surface landing at the shipyard and docked with the spaceway at its terminal.

 

Commander Selani gave everyone shore leave except for a security team needed to maintain guard and feed Luscious. VERA went into fake VI mode.

[Redbelle]

Anika felt uncomfortable around Essul. A byproduct of her old, distrust non humans upbringing from back at the Complex. None the less, she couldn't avoid him. Not so much because she didn't want to. She did. She wanted to keep away from all the non Human, non Asari on the ship.

 

And that was in itself a problem. She knew she shouldn't not want to.

 

And so she made time for them all. Essul especially since he was effectively second in command of the Spectre Team. In the ships bar she found him. They talked. They got drinks. And it was there Anika said.

 

"It's not your fault over the reporter incident.... Babylon incident..... That thing you know. Fact is your new to the chain of command and sure... Your supposed to be in charge, being second and all... But asking you to take charge in a situation like that? Nuh uh. Jenus.... Now she should have stepped up and done something but there's something I've noticed about Jenus that makes me think I dodged a bullet when she took over Team Boom.....".

 

Anika knocked a drink back, then reached out to grab a bottle and refilled her glass.

 

"Jenus is passive aggressive. Belligerent. She accepts authority only when it suits her. And if it suits her needs. She's been trying to get under my skin ever since I came aboard like I have something to prove to her. Her type was talked about back at the complex when they ran us through rudimentary officer training to help us get a handle on the types of people we'd meet. Jenus fits the category of Good Shot, But Major Pain in the Arse. Outwardly respectful but constantly finding a way to dig at you that you can't call her out on because it never crosses the line.....". Anika downed her next drink and looked at her glass before pouring another.

 

"Did you know I can't get drunk? Augmented metabolism. I burn through the alcohol to fast. Lungs and blood regulate blood and oxygen flow..... Anyway, Jenus. You keep an eye open on her. She needs watching. She ought to be doing the work of a fire team leader. That involves more than a grunts downtime and pushing the troops for more target practice. When that reporter incident happened, she ought to have had a statement written up. Pulled your statement. Done the leg work to get the paper work so if it blew up she was covered..... Instead she went riding off with her girl friend and trashed the hanger. Word to the wise. Keep her busy. If she's busy when she's on ships time she can't goof off. There are a lot of things she should be doing like I said. Maybe it's time you told her you want her to catch up on her paper work for you to review. Personnel readiness reports. Equipment audit. Reports on how she would organise her team to work in certain situations. Jenus may be lording the role of Team Leader for the Boom team but that role comes with responsibility. Since Naleena's away, it falls to you to keep us sharp and that trouble maker out of our collective hair".

 

Turning her head to regard Essul, Anika took a deep breath, took the bottle and took a swig from it. "You know, lately, ever since Naleena left I've been wondering if coming here was the right move. The crew are distant. Jenus keeps Boom Team to herself. If I had a purpose, a goal, I wouldn't mind. If Naleena was here I wouldn't mind. But since I don't have any of those things I keep thinking back to home on the Medusa and wondering why I ever left that old tub".

[Redbelle]

When the news came through to the Amy that the Janiri had left she grinned and checked her watch.

 

"Times up. They decided not to share the footage".

 

The lead producer in the Studio had his arms folded against his chest. "You really want us to go ahead with this? It's gold... but the lack of visuals.....".

 

"Shows the military are hiding the evidence". Amy cut in. "This is perfect. Now they either have to show it which validates us... Or hide or destroy it. In which case a lot of people will wonder if the military can be trusted with security when they hear what happened to me".

 

The producer shrugged. "Fine. I'll get it up for tonight".

 

"I'll be watching".

 

"Not from here"?

 

"I've a ship. The Medusa. I need to be on it. It's going after the Janiri. I want to keep an eye on her. This story is just rind. Something tells me the real juice is yet to flow".

[Cknarf]

Sanves

 

“I’m proud of you, old man.”

 

Adir’s eyes opened slowly, to smears of blue and purple.

 

“I’d let you sleep in, but we gotta go. Everyone’s waiting on you."

 

“Keelah…” Adir sat up, closing his eyes tight as he cradled his helmeted head.”It’s so bright…”  Feeling around for the cloth that normally covered his head and shoulders, he inadvertently came in contact with one of the more tender pieces of the asari anatomy.

 

“Oh my...” He  quickly withdrew his hand, and being the gentleman that he was, covered her up with a sheet.

 

“I… what did I… what happened last night?” Adir asked, before being hit in the face with his head covering, which he promptly tied around his visor to keep the light out.

 

“You’re lucky you can’t smell that.” Frank chuckled. “You’ll never guess where I found it!” He helped the quarian to his feet, and guided him through Dax’s completely trashed home “Last I remember, you were keelah se’lappin’ that ass on the dance floor. And, well…”

 

“Ugh.” Adir groaned, sliding a finger under the cloth to wipe away some of the lipstick smudges.

 

“Watch your step.” Frank warned, as they stepped around a couple turians, one of which was face down in some coagulated dextro vomit.

 

“You’re reeeealllly lucky you can’t smell anything.” Frank covered his nose.

 

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

After getting Adir safely to his quarters, Frank made his way to the upper deck.

 

“Smokin’ causes wrinkles, you know.” He said, as he passed through the living area. Kira, looking and feeling less than glamorous, flipped him the bird, before focusing back on her coffee. Frank snickered as he walked on. Just as he reached the steps, he felt the slightest push from behind, and he totally ate it on the first step.

 

“Smartass.” Kira took another drag from her cigarette, as her aura dissipated.

 

“Well It’s about fuckin’ time.” Daliax grumbled as Frank entered the cockpit. “We’re behind schedule.”

 

Frank hit her with that b*tch, please face, as he took the helm.

 

“Took you long enough. You find the old man?” Marius asked from the co pilot's seat.

 

“Where I least expected.”

 

“Yeah?”

 

“Let’s just say Quintus woulda been proud.”

 

Marius shook his head.

 

“We gonna get this piece of sh*t in the air sometime today?” Dax poked Frank in the head with her cane.

 

“Touch me again, and I swear to god, I’ll shove that cane so far up your ass…”

 

“I'd like to see you try.” Daliax waved it near his face, laughing as she yanked it away before he could grab it.

 

“Dax!” Marius shot her a glare, before turning back to Frank. “Go on, Eli. Take us out.”

 

“Yeah, Eli. Take us out.” Daliax added, before clunking her way down the stairs.

 

==============================================

Parnitha system

 

The Vepr dropped out of FTL upon reaching the Parnitha system, and set course for Thessia.

 

“Get some rest, Eli. I’ll take it from here." Marius relieved Frank, and took over. "Dax, where are we headed?"

 

"Thessia, you dense motherf*cker."

 

Marius sighed.

 

"Can you be more specific?" His omni-tool glowed.

 

"I just sent you all you're gonna need. Plug it in and let the VI handle it. When they start askin' for authentications and sh*t, just bludgeon your way through by saying 'Spectre Authority' over and over."

 

"I'd rather not get vaporized by the asari navy."

 

"Trust me, you won't. They're expecting us. At least I think they are."

[Redbelle]

This time around Amy was ready.

 

The last time she'd gone aboard the Medusa it had been a whirlwind of circumstances that had seen her board without anything but the clothes on her back. This time she had packed. Clothes, essentials, toiletries. She made sure her field kit was also fully equipped with a camera, mics and cables along several batteries and memory cards. A portable terminal laden with all the softeware she needed.....

 

She paused. This would be a lot of work. In her business she had to be ready to capture content on the fly and by herself....

 

Well of course she could do it. The question was really..... Should she have to?

 

Dang it. It was high time she got a new intern. Someone she could take under her wing. Someone who had a proven track record of semi professional standards she could hone. Someone she could mould in her own image of journalistic integrity and perfection. Going over to her comm she called the one person whose name she could remember from the office.

 

"Regina? Regina....... Hmmmm Upton! Listen carefully. I'm going to the Medusa in the docking bay with the intention of embedding aboard that ship for a duration. You have half an hour to grab what you need and be there if you want to be my new assistant. This is your chance to make up for that coffee incident. Don't waste it". Cutting the connection Amy grabbed her bags and walked out of her door. She was certain this more was the right one. She'd never gain the fame she deserved sitting behind a desk at TerF headquarters. She'd done enough for them and they owed her holiday.

 

it was time to take it all.

[sH0tgUn jUliA]

Parnitha System – Thessia – Armali – Naleena

 

I checked into the Galaxy Hotel & Spa in downtown Jess, Priss, and Babe were staying there, too, and I’d made reservations for Morgan and Dahlia. It was a luxury hotel with a great restaurant right in the heart of the shopping district and nearby some great entertainment. You could get a fantastic mud bath and massage in the spa itself or a private massage up in your room.

 

I was just about to settle in when Commander Selani sent me an urgent message titled “We have a situation.”

 

The message told me of the events on the Janiri between Amy Babylon, Jenus, Essul, and Irina. She was pretty steamed that I didn’t inform her about Babylon’s presence. She told me that she was called before Councilor Tevos and informed that Babylon had filed a complaint with Councilor Udina. Apparently my plan completely backfired. She had no intention of releasing the video to the press and I agreed with her. Videos without context could be made to look very bad, and Babylon was with Terra Firma Party and they had an axe to grind with about every single race in the galaxy, even Asari, despite the fact that we were the ones who kept the Turians from invading Earth.

 

But Jenus’ name came up twice in separate incidents and Selani asked me to look in on CPO T’riel. I’d planned to do this anyway, but now this was a priority. Jenus was always going to be a problem. I contacted the base and got the address where Mira was staying. I had a good idea of what she liked – books…, so I bought her a copy of Earth History and Society since we’re around humans so much. I thought she’d be interested.

 

Then I took a taxi to the address given to me by the military base administrator. I walked up the steps to her apartment and rang her doorbell.

[Cainhurst Crow]

Essul listened to Anika's advice, nodding as he mulled it over himself. Hearing about one of the side effects of her augmentation, he couldn't help but smirk at it. He had his drink, a single glass of lager which he didn't even get a quarter of the way through when Anika kept pounding back her drinks.

 

"Your augmentations sound interesting...almost the opposite of mine..." Essul commented as he looked down into the dark liquid he drank cautiously, "The medication I take...It blocks pain receptors signals from fully reaching my brain. Along with barely being able to feel anything...any suppressant could increase the drugs effects...get too drunk, and your bodies automatic responses could shut down. No more breathing, no more heart beat...just like that." Essul said as he looked down into his own drink as he took another gulp of it, draining it to the half-way point.

 

"Doesn't mean I'll stop though...that'd be letting this thing win." He said simply as he sat in silence for a good 20 seconds before he spoke, "Never was one for a leadership role...I'm a sergeant. Before that, a slave...maybe that's why I'm so lax when it comes to Jenus. I can understand how she feels to an extent..." He said as he let out a sigh, shaking his head as he rubbed his temple, "You...you really think I should start putting her to the grindstone? That it might get her acting on the right track?"

 

Truth be told, Anika was probably a better judge for how to fill his role then he was. She had experience, she had the strength to do so, and she seemed so confident in what she said and did. Essul knew he had a lot to learn still, and maybe he could from someone who'd worked as a second in commander role.

 

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

 

Vayne sat in silence in his quarters, staring at the wall as he rapped his fingers on his knees, fingers tapping as he mulled over what it was that happened before they'd left the citadel. He'd been attacked by the blood pack, again. The bounty on his head had increased, again. Ganar Slayt was gunning for him, that part was a bit new.

 

He was being hunted. That part really caught him off guard. A hunt was a sport for krogan, a chance for the younger ones to show off their stuff, and earn a bit of prizes from the one issuing the hunt. Maybe even win themselves a night with the females depending on how generous the clan leader was. And if he was being hunted, it'd not be a question of if, but when, he was caught.

 

Hunts could last hundreds of years after all. And he didn't have that long to wait.

 

"Vera...you there?" Vayne asked as he cautiously looked up to the ceiling, curious if the AI would even answer him. He didn't like geth, and he didn't trust AI's at all. After all, organics already killed each other over petty reasons. Why introduce immortal and hard to kill competition into that mix? Still, she seemed to be a bit of a confidant for a lot of people on this ship. And right now, he could use someone who might be able to keep their metaphorical lips shut.

[Redbelle]

Anika shrugged. "Beats me. She might vent off, she might bottle it up and explode. She's good on the battle field I'll admit. But she doesn't care. Not the way a team leader is supposed to. It's not about babying your team, it's about making sure they know your looking over their shoulder and cracking down when they slack off. Bottom line, we all choose this life..... Well some of you did so it shouldn't come as a surprise when you do something wrong and the boot comes down. Jenus hasn't had a lot of boot lately and now she's in charge she feels she can ignore the people under her... Or not. I don't know. All I know is she's not setting the example I expect of a team leader. I need someone I know has my back and I can aspire towards. Jenus? Well she'll say she has our backs but since she keeps things so close to her chest and defines loyalty in a way only she can understand it's hard to place faith in her. How can I put faith in someone who keeps trying to pick a fight when we're not on combat duty"?

 

Anika was silent for a moment and then sighed. "Maybe she wasn't born at the right time. On Earth in ancient times we had gladiators. People who would fight for the public's amusement. Seems to me she'd be perfect in that setting. Always another fight to look forward to. Plenty of accolades and reward for the victories. No complications. She could fight to her hearts content. Live it up and one day earn her freedom to choose the life she wants. But she's here and she needs reigning in.... She'll hate it. She wants freedom. She's a commando. She's free until it's time to serve and someone needs to make sure she's ready to serve. An unannounced equipment inspection would be one way to get the ball rolling".

[sH0tgUn jUliA]

Janiri - Vayne's Quarters

 

VERA popped up on the terminal in Vayne's room. "My sensors indicate that you are showing signs of stress. Is everything alright, Vayne?"

[Kel Riever]

Mira

The apartment Naleena showed up to was off a small concourse, and part of the Republics military base that was uncharacteristically made up of only one or two story buildings, though very characteristically designed to appeal as well as for function.  The Commandos, officers at least, did fairly well it seemed, even by military standards.  Even the staircase to Mira's second story was hidden by design, so it took a bit to find.  There must have been some sort of camera, but it wasn't immediately visible, as when Naleena rang, there was a soft chime sound, a delay of a few seconds, then Mira's voice through a speaker. 

"Spectre?  I'm pleasantly surprised.  Come on in."

A small green light by the door lit.  It was old fashioned by designed, made of heavy wood, and Naleena had to pull it open herself. 

Once inside, Naleena saw a fair sized, likely two bedroom apartment.  The whole place was a sort of ivory color, highlighted by art and furniture of natural colors.  Mira seemed to have an appreciation for low tables and decorative pillows were meant for most seating, so one would lounge on the floor or sit upright in one of the legless ergonomic chairs.  Indoor plants were abundant, and Naleena had to dodge a vine or two coming in.  And the light of Parnitha was abundant too, as most of the ceiling was one way tinted glass.  Though the floor was tiled by the entrance, it gave way quickly to plush rug, and Naleena noticed shoes had been set aside near the door.

"Over here."  The sweetness of Mira's voice was easily forgotten about when she hadn't been around for so long.  It came from off to the right, through an open doorway into one room that was a bit of a change from the rest of the décor.  

Following the voice, Naleena saw that the room was a kitchen, and Mira was standing behind the counter.  Also glass ceilinged, the kitchen was black tiled and decorated more in ebony and silvery metal.  There was a central island with a sink that Mira was standing behind, some vegetables on a cutting board.  Mira smiled warmly and came over immediately to hug Naleena.  The first thing Naleena noticed was that Mira's arm seemed to be fine, though she was fully attired in a long sleeved body suit.  The second thing Naleena noticed is that when Mira hugged her, she favored her good arm.

Mira cheek was soft and warm to the touch.  After she hugged Naleena, she looked up at her and asked, "Why am I so lucky today that you've come by?" 

[Kel Riever]

Iole (and Jenus and Tallis)

The lounge of the Janiri was packed with eight Commandos in total, six other asari crewmembers, and one AI, who was watching and listening in.  Iole was at the from of the room.

"No third team?" Lusia jokingly asked from the sofa next to her twin.  Despite the humor, she was genuinely curious.

"Selani wouldn't let them off.  Someone has to stay behind with the ship.  But they'll know what's happening. I got them linked with the best live feed services money could buy!"

There was collective laughter.  Iole used her Omni-tool to activate a holo-projector to show a life-sized asari in a mostly silver racing suit.

"Who's this?" Iole asked the audience.

"That's easy," Asteria answered, "Silver Specter."

"And who does she race for?"

"Serrice Technology.  It's right on her collar."

"Right.  What are her wins and podiums?"

Asteria was stumped.  One of the asari crew said, "Six?"

"Five," Jenus corrected.  "Even I know that, but I don't know her podiums."

"Six!  Six!"  Tallis jumped in.   "Seven poles.  Seven poles."

"Yes," Iole confirmed.  "Silver Specter has had seven pole position starts out of the sixteen races this season.  She's the favorite to win.  Now, who's this?"  Iole changed the image to another asari, who's racing outfit seemed to constantly change through the lower spectrum colors.

A gaggle of voices chimed in.  "Eccentric!"  "Goddess Essentials racer!"  "Meter is her SO"  "Three wins..."  "She's looks so good!"

"All right!  All right, we know who is the favorite here.  And on the cover of every racing magazine covering jet biking.  Celebrities..."  Iole changed the image again as more laughter filled the room.  Appearing next was an asari in a blue and black racing outfit, with a holovisor across her eyes, giving a hard stare.  Iole didn't even wait to ask questions.  "This is Terminatrix.  She races to promote the Dark Goddes II video saga, tons of entertainment and media money behind her..."

Iole was living the dream.  And with a captive audience!

[Kel Riever]

The other people who got off Naleena's Shuttle

When Naleena stepped off her shuttle, she was of course followed by Jess, and then by Miss Priss and Babe.  Naleena had already given everyone the information on their hotel accommodations, and let them know they would be met by hotel staff to catch a sky car ride over.  As it happened, Naleena's Scythe had put down on the top level of a landing tower at the star port, under a clear sky, with Parnitha blazing beautifully down on Thessia.  

The hotel staff, dressed in gold and orange was there and was already approaching, but stopped mid-stride as she saw Babe step around from behind in her white cropped tank top, her black tight leather pants and her scarlet cavalier boots.  Visibly, her mouth opened.  

Miss Priss tilted her pink Stetson hat.  Putting her weight on one foot and her fist on her hip, she said, "We have arrived.  In style." 
 

[sH0tgUn jUliA]

MIRA and Naleena - Kel and SJ

 

 

I removed my boots, as was customary, before entering her apartment, and used the coat rack near the door. Mira's apartment reflected her personality. I immediately felt a sense of calm upon entering. When she hugged me I caught her spicy scent. Why did the bad things always happen to the good ones?

 

I smiled, held up the package I had in my left hand. “I brought you a gift. It needed to be delivered in person,” I said handing her the book. “I've missed you, Mira. This visit was long overdue. I'm just sorry it took so long. And I'm glad to see you're functioning with both of your arms again.”

 

I looked around her place. It was a place of peace. Not a place where one would drink or smoke. It was a place where one would read and meditate. “May we have some red tea, sit, and talk?”

 

“Well, sure,” Mira said, picking up the package and feeling the heft.  She called out to the refrigerator and water filtration unit, “Two teas, Red Surrana.”  Immediately, two cups appeared out of a flip open, automatic shelf.  Mira went over, took one and handed it to me, and took the other.  “Come on into the living room.”

At the low table, Mira sat and lowered her tea.  The package was in her less favored hand and I saw Mira slightly fumble it as it got to the table.  “Sorry,” Mira said as it bumped, “I hope it isn't delicate.”  She sat lounging sideways on a pillow and ignored the package for a moment.  “I feel honored, I'm not ashamed to say.  Before you even ask, I'll tell you that I've had the best care.  There's quite a bit to get used to.”  Mira paused, then smiled.  “The strange thing is it isn't really like having my old arm back.  More like a brand new one.  We had to get used to each other.  We still do, but I am assured that everything is coming along.  The tone is now there.  The nerves took the longest to link up but they finally did.  It's the brain, the doctors say, that has to learn with the arm again.  And this brain and this arm weren't best of friends at first.”

 

“I would expect things to take a while. I wouldn't even pretend to understand the process of growing new limb, attaching it, and linking it with the nervous system,” I said, and took a sip of the red tea. It was delicious, just like my mother used to make. I closed my eyes and smelled its wonderful aroma. “Remind me to order a stock of this for the ship before I leave. So Mira, what is the prognosis with your arm? I noticed you favoring your good arm? Is... everything alright? Or is that part of the neural rewiring that's taking place?”

 

“Well, it depends on who you ask,” Mira said with a brief smirk.  ”Medical says don't push it.  One doc is pushing for reassignment.  But if you ask command here, they said they got sick of seeing me a month ago.  I still was showing purple lines from the surgery.  Well, follow up surgery.”

Mira leaned forward, resting her less favored arm's elbow on the table.  The arm muscles shivered slightly then stopped.  Mira talked like she was telling a secret, even though no one was around to overheard.  ”But if you ask me, I'll tell you I've been pushing the workout.  All the muscles is there, and potential.  It's the fine motor that needs work, and I've been on the range for that.  More than I'm supposed to have been.”

Then leaning back, Mira took a sip of her tea.  ”Mmmm, good choice!  Anyway, it isn't like me to be impatient, but even I get tired of the slow speed.  Ironic, since this is still a lot more exciting than being stationed where we were on Duellos.  Who would have thought...”

With a glance down at the package, Mira ran her fingers across the top.  ”May I open this now?”

 

I smiled. “Of course. Open it,” I said. “A lot has happened since you left. We discovered a new Archive in the Terminus on Eingana. There was a disaster on Garvug. I was nearly taken to the Void and spent 10 days at Huerta Memorial. Most recently we discovered the Batarians were working on the Leviathan of Dis - yes, the rumors were true.” My skin must have turned a pale tint of blue. “I saw the thing. It... it touched my mind.”

 

I reached out and took her hand. “And there is some bad news. Xanthe Remi has gone missing somewhere in the Terminus. I know she was your commander for several years. She was following a lead I gave her. I do not know how close you were. As different as our methods were, she and I were becoming friends.”

 

Mira seemed to understand.  ”A Spectre like Xanthe Remi does not just go missing.  I would not say we were close, but we worked easily together.  I found her methods..rigid to my tastes.  But I never argued her effectiveness.  Nor her appreciation for my work.  It could be some mistake, but Xanthe was not inclined to make many.  She was thorough, if nothing else.”

Taking another sip of tea as she thought, Mira asked, “I'm sure I've missed quite a bit since I've been gone, but how is the rest of the team?

 

I held the teacup in my hands. “I won't lie to you, Mira. Since your departure, things have gotten rather chaotic. Iole and Jenus nearly killed each other. Iole went AWOL but returned within the time limit I gave her so as to avoid Court Martial. I made Essul my XO, a decision I'm begining to regret. He's not incompetent. Quite the contrary. It's just that... well... you know he's Batarian. His appointment was approved by Councilor Tevos. I needed an assistant to help with all the paperwork. There have been other incidents.

 

“It sounds like you're getting bored with sitting around here, and really before the military reassigns you, I'd like to ask you if you want to return to the Janiri. Quite honestly, I need you. Even if you're not quite field ready....”

 

Mira tilted her head and smiled wide.  ”I'd really like that.  I know that I could follow medical, but I begin to wonder how long that would take in truth.  Me?  I think that I won't get up to speed without, well, without actual deployment now.  And I believe I'm ready, even if arm and brain are still having a few more disputes.”

Then with a sigh, Mira added, “I am saddened to hear about the difficulties.  We're young.  Younger than we'd like to think.  Younger of course than many perceive us to be, emotionally.  I love my teammates but I understand their shortcomings.  And I hoped they would have learned.  Maybe they have, in fact.  You didn't mention Tallis, so I presume she is doing well?”  Mira's hand touched the package again as she spoke.  ”Pardon me, but I very much want to see what this is!”

Mira took the package and opened it like a child on their birthday.  When she saw it was a book, a live, actual book, she stopped and held it in awe.  ”How wonderful...”  Mira started to flip through the pages and her eyes went wide.  ”And I have nearly nothing that I've read on humans...this is perfect!  Yes!  I want to come back with you.”

Freezing in mid motion for a minute, Mira then laughed.  ”Does my eagerness show?  I supposed with your authority, you could take me away from here immediately.  But it might help to go through the normal processing, which sped up will still take a few days I suppose.  Are you here for that long?  It would be nice for me to get to thank those who've put me back together again.”

 

My eyes watered with joy. “I would never rush you, Mira. I know there are things that are important. Things I sometimes neglect. The Janiri is in dry dock at the shipyard. I'm taking a week personal leave to Serrice to visit Matriarch Syra. I've become... disconnected... and too cynical,” I said and sighed. “Too many things have been happening too quickly. I need to become centered again. You will have plenty of time to get everything together. And... thank you. I am glad you chose to return.

 

“And Tallis seems to be doing fine… at being Tallis,” I laughed thinking about what Mira’s reaction would be when she saw her new armor. “You’ll see. And we have a new member, Specialist Ereba Danri, who is on ‘temporary assignment’. Danri is a dead shot sniper and cynical malcontent who is trying to be on her best behavior so she can make CPO and retire…. But she’s ‘daddy’s girl’ and dad is Krogan.”

 

Mira took one of my hands and held it in both of her own.  She closed her eyes and let out a long breath.  When she opened her eyes, Mira said.  ”It feels right.  All is one.”

 

“Your access information is the same. Contact VERA and let her know when you're coming aboard. I'm sure Commander Selani will hold the departure schedule as long as necessary.”

 

I finished my tea and set the cup on the table in front of me. “And now I must take my leave. Serrice is a three hour trip and I need to check into my hotel before 1900 hours,” I said and stood.

 

Mira walked me the door. I put on my boots and coat. I turned to her and hugged her again, then held her hands in mine. “All is one.”

 

I turned and left.

[Kel Riever]

Morgan

The Medusa docked at one of the two space stations in orbit over Thessia. The station was for the Republics navy, and saw all service to ships that weren't atmospheric capable, including some of the largest ships in the Asari navy.  All went according to the numbers, and disembarking didn't feel entirely unlike stepping off onto the Citadel, though nothing was quite as grandiose at that.  The station was a bit more on the decorative side as well, but it wasn't overwhelming.  After normal procedures were taken care of, Morgan stepped off the ship with Dahlia, to find a shuttle regularly running to planet side was a short walk out a guarded gate.

"I'm not sure Jess is going to be thrilled about same hotel accommodations with Naleena if she's trying to maintain distance from the Spectre," Morgan said to Dahlia.  "Honestly I don't see how anyone will look at the two ships as unrelated given the travel patterns, let alone if someone looks more closely.  That's the kind of thing Jess seems to not want if she's to keep her independent reputation up."

Boarding the shuttle to Thessia, Morgan heard a shout from someone familiar to hold the door.  It was Keats and Coco, hurrying to get onboard.  Keats explained, "Dogger's letting us cycle in small groups.  Wouldn't want anyone to come all this way to Thessia to not have a look!"

Dogger had been left in charge, and Morgan thought highly of him.  He was smart to cycle the crew, they'd be pretty bitter if they didn't get off the ship a bit.  Morgan wondered too if he'd made arrangements for Amy Babylon.  Special arrangements were made by Morgan himself to get her and her assistant Regina reasonably acclimated with Amy's usual amenities, though Babe had specifically insisted a few things be left out of the list of requests.  With hope she'd at least be happy for the time being, Morgan figured Amy would catch up with him if necessary.  He'd given her his omni-tool code to contact him if she needed.  That need was only a matter of time, but the space station and Thessia itself could provide plenty to attract Amy's attention.  Morgan hoped that would help.

"Galaxy Hotel and Spa," the pilot announced as the military shuttle got under way, "ETA one half an hour."