A/N – Before this chapter begins, I'll ask a question; does anyone want to see a timeline? I had a guest reviewer ask if I'd be doing one, and although I have a rough idea of a few things that built the current world, I was only going to drip feed a little history throughout the story.

However, in the past week or so, I have put together a timeline, while also providing a breakdown of certain features of the Empire (nations, cities, religion etc). If you're interested, let me know by review or PM, and I'll post it, putting it up next. It'll look a bit weird, having two chapters, then a timeline, but it doesn't matter. And if you have any requests of what you'd like to see in said timeline, I'll see if I can add it in, though what I've written I think is okay as it is.

Year 2183 of the Empire (since Foundation Year)

Year 979 of the Third Era of Empire (Dragonheart Line)

Veneris, the fifth day of Morning Star

Mid-morning

If you've ever wondered what it's like putting together a crew for a ship, it's long, hard, tiring work. In other words, a complete and utter ball-ache, but at least I knew with this mission, I was hopeful I'd get the best. I would still have to make sure I had the right men for the job, because if just one cog goes wrong, the entire thing falls apart, I'll have an unhappy crew, and if I'm really unlucky, mutiny. It had happened once or twice before, and the outcome each time was ugly.

Commissioned officers were generally appointed by the various boards that governed the Imperial Navy. I was hopeful they would send people I could trust most of all, and were at least competent at their jobs. I was thinking that, due to the importance of the mission, they would send me the best of the best. And hopefully single people, gods forbidding the worst did happen again.

Appointing petty officers wasn't as big a problem because I had the final say. The only issue I faced there was if the ship was out at sea, then it would be impossible to recruit them, but if their ship was in dock, or they were on furlough, then they could at least be summoned.

First on my recruitment list was Quartermaster Jeff Moreau. He'd been part of the Imperial Navy since signing on as a cabin boy, working his way up to become the senior helmsman, and in previous discussions we had shared, he continually stated happiness at his current ranking. Having suffered from polio as a child, he did have trouble walking, though he refused any help… unless he fell over. Even then, he only took any offer of help begrudgingly. He'd actually designed a pair of sticks that assisted him while walking, though while at sea, he still had his troubles getting about, usually happy enough sleeping near the wheel unless it was raining.

He took my offer immediately, excited at the prospect of finally going beyond the reef. Like every other single crew member notified before an official announcement, they were sworn to absolute secrecy until the building of the boat and reason for the mission was reported by the Admiralty to the newspapers. If word leaked out, there would be floggings.

The Lord Admiral had offered me a small office in Admiralty House while I prepared lists of the crew I wanted and met officers who would soon be under my command. The appointing of able seaman and ordinary seaman I generally left to subordinates, though I would always cast an eye over any appointment, taking into account their service history. If anyone stood out as potential trouble, I'd veto the appointment. But that's why I mentioned trust above. If I didn't trust their judgement, I'd end up doing everything myself, and I hated micro-managing. If I can trust my immediate subordinates, then the ship would run as I wanted.

I'd spent all day sat down, barely moving, when there was a knock at the door. "Come in," I said, not looking up from my paperwork. I sensed the person walk into the room, but I was the middle of something, so they'd just have to wait. I recognised one or two names on the current list that I wouldn't mind as petty officers, circling them to hand over to my new clerk, who would eventually be joining me on the Normandy. With any luck, the people I wanted were currently on land or at least on a docked ship.

"If you're going to invite me in, Johnny…"

There was only one person in the world who would call me that. Who would dare call me that. I recognised the voice immediately, looking up to see my younger sister standing before me. I couldn't help smile, and eventually start laughing, as I hurried around the desk and grabbed her in a big bear hug, picking her up and twirling her around. "Why didn't you say something?!"

"You looked busy," she said, before groaning, "And you're squashing me!"

"Ah, sorry," I said, placing her down. She stood about four to five inches shorter than me, with mahogany coloured hair, green eyes, faint freckling over her little nose and she was rather pale, a slight surprise considering all the time spent at sea. While small, she was a bundle of energy, and had always been athletic. She might be my sister, but she was a fine woman, and any man she made hers would be a lucky man.

"Take a seat," I said, gesturing to one of the two available, as I sat back in mine. "I'll be honest; I wasn't expecting you for another couple of days."

"Well, I'll be honest too. It sounded rather important, so I got here as quickly as possible." She leaned forward to whisper. "My arse is a little sore from the riding."

I blushed. I know I did. My sister spent plenty of time with sailors, and could be filthy with language and incredibly suggestive. But she's also my little sister, and my job is to protect her from such things. "Don't need to be thinking about that, but I'm glad you're here early." Our eyes met and I couldn't help smiling. I had to rack my mind, thinking when we'd last seen each other. "Let's not talk about work straight away. How are you, Janey?"

She gave me a glare. "You know I hate it when you call me that! You let me call you Johnny because you're my big brother, and only I get to call you that."

I smiled, asking, "Where's your ship docked at the moment?"

"Portsmouth. We've been in dock a couple of weeks already for ship repairs when I received he message. Yourself?"

"Well, I had been on furlough since Celebration Day of the Five Gods, but since a meeting on New Year's Day, I've been busy sorting all this out."

"Still living in that place by the river? The little two-up, two-down?"

"When I'm actually on land, yes."

"So no wife yet?"

I couldn't help smirk. "Has mother been in your ear about me again?"

"Hmmm. I think it's best I don't mention how upset she was in her last letter. 'A gentleman like your brother should already be with wife and child'."

I groaned, imagining just what she was said. I love mother dearly, but she did like to try and interfere in both our lives. Good thing she didn't really know what I got up to half the time. At least father left well enough alone. "What about you? Mother still yearns for the pitter-patter of tiny feet."

Jane barked a loud laugh. "She'll be yearning for a lot longer yet. So, anyway, what am I here for?"

I opened my desk drawer, grabbed the folder I'd been given and handed it to her. "Everything is in there." I watched her eyes move from left to right as she read everything. Only when she looked up did I say, "They've called her the Normandy. And that's what I'm currently doing, putting together a crew." The smile was instantaneous, lighting up her face, as my sister wasn't stupid. "The Admiralty Board have already told me I can offer you a role on the ship. Considering your current role on the… What's your current ship?"

"The Sirius."

"The Normandy dwarfs that, obviously. And if you join me, you're looking at a promotion. And it's not because of who you are, I obviously keep up to date with your progress. I understand you've already passed your midshipman exam."

She smirked. "I know. And with flying colours. Though I still get a word in the ear every so often about 'not letting my big brother down'. They mean well, but…"

"It gets a little tiring?" She nodded. "Sorry…" She dismissed that with a hand wave and smile. "Anyway, a promotion is on the cards. How would you like to be Acting Lieutenant of the Normandy? I know you've already passed your exam, so you could…"

"Yes!" she said rather loudly, "I'll do it. Definitely!" I'll admit to breathing a sigh of relief. "Did you think I'd say no?"

"Maybe. It's a promotion, but there are always openings for Lieutenant, and with your exam score… I'll ask only the once. Are you sure?"

"This could be the adventure of a lifetime, Johnny. I'd be daft not to take the opportunity. And, I'll be honest, I'd like to work alongside my big brother. I've… Well, I've always hoped we would end up serving on the same ship."

"Me too, Jane." I did point a finger for a second. "A word of warning, just because I have to. On the ship, you are crew, not family, at least while we're on shift. I won't treat you any harsher than the others to prove a point, but I won't go easy on your either."

She smirked again. "I'd expect nothing less, Captain Shepard," she stated with a mock salute.

"Good." I sat back and relaxed. "Well, I've had enough for today. Do you have lodgings?" She shook her head. "Well, I guess you assumed you would be staying with me. And that's fine. We'll head to mine, have a little dinner and catch up."

Realising I had no food in once we returned to my small house, we ended up heading out, sticking to one of the nicer areas of the city, at least to begin with, before my sister insisted we head for a much better time by the river. Both of us out of uniform, we could at least mingle a little easier in one or two taverns, though both of us were sensible regarding our intake of alcohol as I'd suggested we visit the ship the next day. Jane was as friendly and flirty as I remembered, whether with me or anyone else, but when someone asked how long we'd been together, we could only laugh and admit we were siblings. It was amazing that we could go months if not over a year without seeing each other, and it was like we hadn't been apart longer than a couple of days. Our relationship had always been close as our family wasn't large.

Returning home at a reasonable time, we enjoyed a nightcap in the small sitting room. We'd always been comfortable around each other so she had no problem sitting next to me on my lone couch, leaning into me, resting her head on my upper arm. "I've missed my big brother," she said softly.

"I've missed you too, but these are the times we live in."

"I do wish you'd write more."

"What would I tell you? 'Dear Jane, I've just spent a week at sea. Seen a lot of blue water. Nothing's appeared from the reef.' A month later. 'Dear Jane. Still at sea. It's quite boring.' Six months later. 'Dear Jane. On furlough. Fucked some whores. Drank some ale.'"

She scoffed. "So much for being a gentleman!"

"I'm a gentleman when it's required, which is primarily around my fellow officers and in front of the crew. But let's be honest. If I were to have a wife, I'd barely see her. And if we had children, I'd never see them grow up. I like my life, and it's going to get even better now that I'm finally off for some adventure. Anyway, what about you?"

"This is going to sound really bad, I mean really bad, but… well… um…"

"Let me guess, and it's not a surprise, but you compare them to me?"

"Gods, it's so embarrassing! But you were my idol when growing up, mostly because you always looked out for me, and always helped me. You still do even now. And you're still the apple of father's eye. I remember how proud he looked when you signed on. So while I might have the occasional gentleman caller, most men simply don't stack up."

"Well, if you're talking personality and whatnot, that's fine. But if you end up with someone who looks like me, we won't be talking again. That's just too weird!"

"I'll find someone eventually. And I promise they won't even be a reminder of you. I mean, I love you and all, but that's because your family." She then cuddled into my arm, adding, "Though I do like you as well, and that's because you're actually a good man, not because I'm obliged to."

We chatted a little longer, mostly about what I figured would happened before leaving. I said we'd definitely leave later than planned. I didn't expect perfection, otherwise we'd never leave, but I knew it was going to take longer to get the crew we needed. Jane eventually headed to bed first, pleased that I always kept a spare room available. To be honest, in all the time I'd lived there, she was the only consistent visitor, and I could count on one hand how often she'd visited me.

Members of the navy rarely kept horses. If we spent most of our time at sea, what was the point. But despite my love for everything to do with the ocean blue, I also loved horses, and I kept one at a stables on the outskirts of the city. The master of the stables remembered me at least, though my horse didn't at first. It was a rather black, temperamental beast I'd named 'Monster'. As Jane didn't have a horse, we hired one for her too, a placid chestnut mare that would co-operate.

It took her a little while to be completely comfortable in the saddle. My horse was just a bastard, more than once trying to throw me off. I actually learned forward and issued a few threats in its ear. I'm not sure if it understood the language or not, but it behaved much better afterwards. Our ride towards the ship was only halted by a patrol, four men spreading across the road, weapons at the ready. The fact they did that pleased me, as it meant they were taking the secrecy seriously, even if we both were dressed in uniform.

"Do you have a pass, sir?"

"Are the epaulettes on my shoulder not enough, soldier?" I asked, keeping my tone friendly.

The face remained serious. "Sorry, sir, but no-one can go further without a pass. We'd stop the Emperor himself if required. Direct orders of the Lord Admiral."

I took the pass from my pocket and handed it over. The eyes widened slightly and he looked up, a little worried. "You're just doing your job, soldier. I certainly wouldn't expect you to make an exception."

He handed the pass back quickly "Yes, sir. Thank you, sir," he stated, all four men coming to attention and saluting.

Jane and I returned the salute and we carried on. When it came into view, Jane immediately grew a little excited, and she kicked her horse on ahead, much to my amusement. Though I'd only passed through the village once, my uniform stuck out, with plenty of men rising to feet and saluting, with calls of 'Captain' ringing in my ears. I already figured that many of these men would be serving on the ship they'd help build.

The Normandy was still out at anchor, but Jane and I stood with the water lapping at our leather boots. "She's beautiful," Jane whispered.

"Certainly is. You've seen the specs. This is the ship that will escort us to new lands."

"What do you think we'll find?"

"I'm not sure. But I'm convinced there are others out there. We can't be the only people on this planet." I paused, adding, "Well, there are the Batarians... Not sure what to make of them."

We would not journey out to the ship, that being the answer to her rather eager question. That's considered bad luck and karma, and considering what we would be doing, I wanted all the good luck possible before setting out. That would mean a visit to the Pantheon, the most important and certainly the grandest Temple of the Five place of worship in the Empire, where we would pray to the God of Water, Neptune, praying for calm seas for the journey ahead. I knew that was impossible, and we'd likely hit a storm or two, but the fewer, the better.

Heading back to the city, I offered Jane the choice of staying at my place or finding her own lodgings until departure. She worried about interrupting my own life, but considering I was rarely home anyway, it would just be like having a room-mate. And I joked that I didn't meet too many women and any I did meet, they were paid for, as was the room. She just laughed at my honesty, though to be honest, I didn't particularly mean it. I'd certainly behave myself, primarily as she was around, but I also didn't want any trouble with departure day so close.

Solis is always the one day of relaxation, reflection and worship. Jane and I rose early, dressed in our uniforms, and journeyed to the Pantheon for prayers. It was a grand building, with a façade showing the Five Gods and a hundred other minor gods in battle against demons led by Lucifer and his allies, and the vanquishing of the damned. Half a dozen stone columns lined the front of the building. Above the door was a line 'Uhtred Dragonheart, Heart of the People, Emperor as divined by the Five.' The Dragonheart family had ruled for near a thousand years. I'm sure I wasn't the only one thinking it could last a thousand more.

Entering the rotunda, there is a hole high above in the dome to let in natural light. Fifty-five metres wide and high, the concrete dome above our heads was one of the largest structures ever designed and built by the Empire. The temple could fit at least five thousand during the largest of services, though on a regular Solis, there were no more than a couple of hundred people, generally those who are devout would attend every week. Looking around, there was a smattering of those wearing the uniform. Nearly all serving men had at least a little faith.

Adorning the walls around us were statues of the Five. While those were the most revered, and are the 'official' deities of the religion, there were many minor gods that many prayed to. There were many small statues, in addition to all the paintings and frescoes on the wall, with an enormous artwork on the underside of the dome above us, the hole allowing in the natural light playing its part in the design.

All in all, the Pantheon was an awe-inspiring building, and I would always attend Solis services whenever I was in Arcturus. Jane wasn't as devout as myself, though still wore a necklace, for the goddess, Mena. A real surprise, considering she was worshipped by those wishing for children. I had asked Jane only the once, and she admitted to wanting children one day, so wore the necklace in the hope that, when she wanted them, she would be gifted. Under my shirt, I wore a simple necklace for the God of Wind, Venti. Some would think I would worship Mars, but I'm a sailor, and what does a sailor need most? A breeze, some wind, just a little air so my ship moves. That's all any sailor wants. I would pray to the God of War before battle.

Jane and I enjoyed an evening meal out later that day, informing her that I would be working at Admiralty House during the week, and she was free to either remain at home, come with me to the office, which would be rather boring, or occupy herself while I was at work. She agreed to the third option, admitting to just wanting some rest and relaxation before our departure. It wasn't a bad idea, and I promised her at least a little fun on my next day off.

The next morning, Jane did offer to join me as I escorted to the Admiralty House so I could introduce her to the Lord Admiral. To say they got on very well would be an understatement, and he had no problem accepting her commission to the Normandy.

Year 2183 of the Empire (since Foundation Year)

Year 979 of the Third Era of Empire (Dragonheart Line)

Mercuri, the tenth day of Morning Star

Near lunchtime

I answered the knock at the door with the regular "Come in," sensing whoever it was walk in and stand in front of my desk. I finished the sentence I was writing, the note being an update for the Sea Lord, before placing the quill back in its pot and finally looked up to greet whoever had walked in. I was taken aback slightly by the robed figure as it was completely unexpected. That meant…

"You have magic," I stated bluntly.

The man saluted before standing easy, hands behind his back. "Yes, sir." He gestured at his robes, which were the same colour as my navy coat, with gold embroidery across the chest and shoulders. The Imperial crest lay on the right side, near where everyone thought the heart lay. He continued, "On the field, I'll wear the standard uniform expected of any officer, but as I wasn't sure if you'd know who I am and my gift, I thought this would help explain it."

"Your orders?" He held a folder behind his back, which he passed over. "Take a seat."

Flicking through the paperwork, I learned his name, Kaidan Alenko, he was a Captain of the Marines, which was a real surprise, as soldiers with magic were usually designated particular positions across our armed forces, and usually worked in groups with people who shared their gift. That he had served three previous tours on three separate ships wasn't a real surprise. And changes of ship weren't an issue unless there were remarks in his records. Officers moved continuously as they ascended the ranks. But to make his position, as someone gifted with magic, would have required either years of service or an exemplary record. All his other personal details were there, noticing he hailed from the Grand Duchy of Bavaria, but I only gave the rest only a cursory glance. I'd rather learn about men under my command through the art of conversation rather than reading dull words on paper. However, there was one question I had to ask. "You have magic. I must ask, how are you a Captain of the Marines?"

"May I speak freely, sir?" I gestured for him to continue, and a smirk formed. "I worked my arse off to get to this position, sir. I've never asked for any special treatment and, to be honest, have never shown off my magical capabilities, at least to their fullest extent. I understand many fear us. I don't want my fellow soldiers to be afraid of me."

"It's natural that men will fear what they don't understand. And the gift of magic is still not understood at all."

"And you, sir, if I may ask?"

"My contact with those gifted with magic is few and far between, but I certainly won't have an issue with those gifted from serving on my ship." I sensed some relief at my words, left thinking he had been nervous I may have challenged his appointment. "Your contingent of men. Are they prepared to leave?"

"We are camped just outside the walls, sir. To the north. They are ready to leave at moment's notice."

"I assume you've been notified of the mission?" He nodded. "And your men?"

"They will be told when you speak to the crew, sir. The warning from the Lord Admiral and Sea Lord was clear and explicit."

"Most are single?"

"Only one or two family men, sir. But they are good men and will accept the mission regardless. The chance to go beyond…"

"Very good. Departure has been delayed as we gather the crew. Supplies ae currently being loaded and some men are already moving into quarters as final preparations are made."

"It's obviously bad luck for the captain to board too soon."

I couldn't help the slight smile. "Correct you are, Captain." Rising to my feet, I rounded the table so we could shake hands. "Captain Alenko, it will be pleasure to have you aboard the Normandy. And I will ensure you are notified of the new departure date. It should only be a week or two at most after the original date."

"Thank you, sir. I look forward to serving." He paused, before adding, "And before I go, there's a couple more people waiting outside. I think they're your new appointments."

"Very well. Send the next one in."

Resuming my seat, I watched Alenko walk out the door. A minute later, in strode a silver haired woman, no taller than my sister, dressed in the uniform of a doctor. That was a complete and utter surprise. Surgeons on ships were always men. Always. The fact I was possibly being sent a woman as a surgeon, or even surgeon's mate, suggested the navy was absolutely serious about this being a unisex crew. She came to attention in front of me, a crisp, well-trained salute. I returned it before gesturing for her to relax.

"Doctor Karin Chakwas, reporting for duty, sir."

"Orders?" She passed over a folder, like Alenko. "Please, take a seat." She took one of the chairs and relaxed immediately as I flicked through her paperwork. The first question I had to ask was, "You've never served aboard a ship?"

"No, sir."

"Yet the note states you volunteered for this mission. Why?"

"I've always wanted to sail the ocean blue, sir, but opportunities for surgeons such as myself are limited to non-existent." She paused before adding, "I can understand why, to a point. But I couldn't turn down the chance of at least applying for this role. And I can only assume the board liked what I had to say."

I looked through more paperwork. "Well, your record is outstanding. Born and raised in Verona, Tomeria, where you left school with grades anyone would hope for. A doctorate from the Imperial College of Medicine in Arcturus. Residency at the Imperial Hospital of Bergen. You applied to join the navy later than most though."

"I grew bored of life in hospitals. I loved healing the sick and injured, but I wanted to serve the Empire, and hoped, perhaps naively, that I would eventually serve aboard a ship. I've waited a long time for this opportunity, Captain."

"Have you treated the wounded in battle, those who have been shot or stabbed, or perhaps those seriously wounded by the impact of cannonball? And let's not forget the million and one other injuries a sailor can suffer at any time."

"I was sent to Tromso to assist with the wounded after the attack, sir. I saw all manner of injuries I'd never seen before. After that, nothing will probably surprise me. I can perform surgery, amputations and also help with birthing…" She gave me a knowing look.

"Ah, I understand you would have been informed of the, let's call them relaxed rules regarding this voyage."

"Do you anticipate trouble because of it, sir?"

"Depending on how many women there are, I think. Lonely men who see content men could get jealous and the situation can dissolve from there. I've already had to look at plans of the Normandy and ensure the women sailors are kept separate and secured. I don't want sexual assaults and rapes taking place between my crew. If it does, the penalties will be the harshest possible."

"Harshest?"

"Men will hang if found guilty. Everyone will be warned prior to departure. The warning will be for officers, NCOs and enlisted man alike." I cleared my throat. "We're going off on a tangent here. I will only ask this question once of all commissioned officers who want to join. Are you sure, Doctor? We could be gone for a very long time."

"I am unmarried, no children, no real family left alive, sir. I have nothing that keeps me here. This will be a real adventure and one I am already looking forward to. Just tell me when we leave and I'll be on board, readying my surgery, eager to depart. I have only one request?"

"Oh…"

"Do you like brandy, sir?"

"I have enjoyed the occasional tipple."

"I always carry a bottle or two, sir. The finest label from Normandy. If there's one thing the Normans can do, it's distil brandy."

"I might just have to join you for a drink one day, Doctor."

The first smile appeared, and it lit up her face, particularly her green eyes. "You would do me a great honour, sir."

I rose to my feet and rounded the table. "Are you staying in lodgings nearby?" I asked as she also rose to her feet.

"I have my own little place in town, sir. I was tempted to sell it before we departed."

"No, keep it. We'll return one day."

"I'll keep you to that one, sir."

We shook hands, hers far softer than I would have imagined. My face must have shown my surprise, as she laughed, this delightful one that I hoped I'd hear again, perhaps over a drink of brandy. And not in the way you're probably thinking. She was old enough to be my mother, but I always got to know my crew well. Before leaving, I asked her to send in whoever was next, settling back in my chair, wondering who next would introduce themselves.

Year 2183 of the Empire (since Foundation Year)

Year 979 of the Third Era of Empire (Dragonheart Line)

Veneris, the twelfth day of Morning Star

Afternoon

I had met most of my officers assigned to me during the week. My Sailing Master, though generally only ever referred to as Master, was a gentleman by the name of Charles Pressly, as appointed by the Navy Board. His record was exemplary, and I had a recollection of his name, as he had been part of the fleet during the Battle of the Five Apostles. His primary role was one of navigation in conjunction with the Quartermaster, and he would also be assisted by a Master's Mate. I welcomed his commission.

My Purser was a coloured gentleman by the name of Jacob Taylor. People of colour came from the Summer Isles, an archipelago of a dozen habitable islands (and least twenty more uninhabitable) off the south-west of the continent, and were now seen all over the Empire, though not in the greatest of numbers, and some served with the Imperial Navy. For someone such as Jacob to rise such as high was a surprise, though, but he impressed me greatly during his interview, and after some discussion with my sister, simply as a sounding board, I chose Taylor as my officer of supplies. He assumed his responsibilities immediately, taking over from the man temporarily in charge.

In addition to his commission, Taylor made a request, that I hire a lady by the name of Kelly Chambers, who was a Yeoman he had worked with previously. Calling her in for an interview, she was bubbly and very friendly, and I'll admit I had a trouble retaining a straight face during the entire interview.

I hired her immediately.

My new Master-at-Arms, and Chief Petty Officer, was a lady by the name of Ashley Williams, who was from the far north-west of the Empire, the Kingdom of Prussia. I'll admit, I liked her immediately. She was forthright with her opinion and incredibly self-confident. She explained a little of her history, being the first woman in her family to serve in the Imperial Navy, with a long list of fathers and forefathers who had served, going back hundreds of years. As Master-at-Arms of the Normandy, she would be responsible for all weapons, including rifles and cannons, and would also help with discipline of the enlisted men.

She asked to bring her own Ship's corporal, and allowing that, I was quickly introduced to a young man by the name of Jenkins. He seemed rather in awe of myself, so I tried not to embarrass him too much.

My personal, or Captain's Clerk, would be the lady currently working for me now, by the name of Samantha Traynor. A mixed-race woman, she hailed from the Principality of Lavonia, but had a delightful accent I could just listen to all day, allied to a dry sense of humour and a work ethic that put nearly anyone else to shame. As a civilian, I had to warn her about what life was like on a ship, but even after explaining it, she was eager to join up. I wanted her, she wanted to join up. It was a match made in heaven.

During the week, more appointments were made, including the Midshipman and his mate, stewards for the officers, cooks for the enlisted, a boatswain, a carpenter, an armourer, a cooper, a caulker, a sail-maker and watch captain's. After all those appointments, I had to look at the list and see what else remained.

"Samantha?" I called. She appeared in the doorway, ready to listen to or write down whatever I requested. "Any word on a priest on the Five being commissioned?"

"No, sir. Would you like me to make enquiries?"

"Please, as I'd like to at least meet them before we sail."

"I'll find out as soon as possible. But there is a young lady outside now, waiting to meet you."

"Send her in, Samantha."

A minute or so later, a vision of beauty, a veritable goddess walked in. Raven haired, green eyes, a pair of natural ruby lips that I immediately had ungentlemanly thoughts about. Pale skin, the sort a lady dreams of. Curves in all the right places, a bust and a rear that would make any man stop and stare. The sort of woman that makes your heart immediately beat twice as fast, your tongue feel twice the size so you can't speak, and you feel blood surge to other parts of your body, so much so it was probably a good idea I didn't stand for a couple of minutes. Dressed as a surgeon, I could take a guess at her role. She came to attention and saluted, returning it as I asked for her papers.

Her name was Serana Volkihar, hailing from the Grand Duchy of Haafingaar. I didn't want to just read her paperwork, but for the first time in a long time, I found myself incapable of conversing with a member of the opposite sex, at least for a couple of minutes. I gestured to one of the chairs, watching her sit down and cross her legs, her skirt splitting enough so I could see some calf and shin. I shouldn't have glanced but even they were spectacular. It was a strange feeling, but I eventually managed to say something.

"Your paperwork is impressive, Doctor."

"Thank you, sir." By the Five, her voice was pure silk. I had to remind myself to behave and certainly don't even contemplate what was bubbling up in the back of my mind.

"Having not served aboard a ship and no doubt informed of the mission, I will ask only once. Are you sure you wish to serve?"

"Yes, sir. I think serving about the Normandy will provide plenty of adventure, and as you can see from my paperwork, helping the sick and the wounded won't be an issue."

"Ever heard the name of Doctor Karin Chakwas?"

"I've never met her, but the name is familiar. Why?"

"Due to the size of the crew, and the fact it unisex, it was decided by the Admiralty Board that two surgeons would be required on board the vessel."

"I'm used to working with others, sir. That won't be a problem. And I can take a guess why there will be two of us." The look on her face suggested much as she added, "I'm not sure about Doctor Chakwas, but I've been present during births. It won't be a shock. Do you expect any?"

"We will be gone for many months, if not years. And life sometimes finds a way."

"When do you anticipate our departure, sir?"

"I would have liked within the week, but I'm still waiting for the appointment of my Lieutenant by the Admiralty Board. Until I know who that is, we won't be going anywhere. I'm also waiting to meet the priest who will accompany us. Do you have lodgings?"

"I will be in barracks until we leave, sir." I almost offered her my spare room until I remembered my sister was living with me. Rising to my feet, she followed me to the door. I offered my hand, surprised by how soft her hands were. She must have seen the surprise on my face. "I wear gloves when I work, sir."

"Good to know." She smiled at the remark and I cleared my throat. "I will ensure you are notified of the date of departure. Before leaving, Samantha can give you the list of officers currently commissioned to the Normandy. You might recognise names, and I've suggested people meet to gain an understanding of each other."

"Of course, sir. Thank you, sir." With another smile, I dipped my head as she disappeared through the doorway. I closed it once she was gone and leaned against the hard wood, closing my eyes for a moment before laughing lightly to myself.

"Well, what the hell was all that about?" I wondered to myself as I returned to my desk. Whatever the case, that short meeting certainly left a smile on my own face for the rest of the day, enough for my sister to inundate me with questions when walking in the front door.

A/N – Just one or two things:

Serana Volkihar – adaptation of a character nearly everyone wishes they could romance from the Elder Scrolls: Skyrim. Despite what was written above, I will spoil now. I've simply added her as an OC but she is not the romance. I've already written a romance with her character in another story.

I'm pretty sure you're all intelligent and can figure out what magic is. However, it is not exactly the same, at least in my mind at the moment. I'm still figuring it all out as I go along.

Oh, and I'm using terminology some of you might think 'What?' Written to be reflective of the period in which its set. (Obviously referring to how Jacob was described.)

Finally, as I asked at the start, if you'd like a timeline, let me know.