My Mass Effect: Andromeda Story

by Hell-Knight54

So this is a first person point of view from myself into the world of Mass Effect. Instead of ruining my one of my favorite trilogy's of all time I thought. How about I challenge myself. To see if I can make Andromeda Heavier. Scott-Cora, Peebee-Jaal, (maybe) Drack-Lexi, a bonus romance I have planned but keeping on the low. Q and A in the comment section as usual.

6. Chapter 3: The Crew Part 1

I own nothing~~~

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I groggily woke up staring at yet another ceiling I never seen before. This was getting way too causal for me. My body felt like it went through a car crash. "Welcome back, Schmitt." A somewhat familiar voice said coming from my own damn mind. "SAM, right? What the hell happened?" I moaned slow to rise up from the table or gurney, using my arms to support myself up. Realizing, that I was still in my armor when I woke up. What the fuck happened?

"Yes, but you were clinically dead for twenty-four seconds." SAM reported as if his voice was inside my head. Why could I hear this guy? Normally his voice came the radio of my omi-tool.

"What about everyone else?" I said looking around to notice someone in the corner of my left eye. "YOU'RE AWAKE!" Liam spoke up and then looked around. "Who are you talking too?" Liam asked feeling skeptic of who I was referring to.

"That AI, SAM." I responded rubbing the left side of my neck, hoping I would get the kink out of my neck. "I don't hear him." Costa responded looking confused then activated his omi-tool while shaking his head. "Everyone, Schmitt is awake. Get to SAM node." It sounded like he almost forgot. That was fine though. I had a splitting headache, so I didn't want to hear too many loud voices. It took about five maybe six minutes until Scott, Cora, and that asari from before entered the room. The asari was right away up-close checking up on me by waving her hand to both sides asking me to "Look here and there." I waved her off saying I was fine. "Could anyone tell me where Alec is?" I said rotating my neck since my whole upper body felt sore.

Everyone fell quiet shooting their eyes to the floor in silence. In that moment, I knew...He was dead. It felt like my soul left my body again...not again...no, no, no, no. I couldn't speak. I couldn't think. I ran my gloved hands though my hair. "What happened? Someone...answer me..." I somberly said as tears began to form in my eyes and stream down my face. Not him too.

"It was your life or his. He choice you." Cora said as if it was hard to admit out loud. Some of her makeup was smeared on her face as if she too was crying earlier. "God damn it, Not again..." I almost growled wiping the tears from my eyes. Hatsu and him were like brothers to me. Family and now...their both gone. It was still fresh for me that Hatsu was gone now...Alec to save my dumbass. What was he thinking? Everyone could see how pissed and sad I was.

"I'm sorry." I said looking at Scott who patted me on the shoulder. "It should have been me." I said looking right at Scott who shook his head. "I don't blame you. My dad...Made his choice." I heard him sniff though his nose and sob a bit himself. He was holding it in, but his face showed it. He wasn't angry with me but his dad. Mix of anger and sadness. Something I could relate to.

"Why am I here?" I said still sobbing a little while looking at the asari doctor. "What is this place?" I had to ask after the small moment with Scott.

"You're in SAM node. We had to connect you to SAM directly. SAM...is a part of you. In a way we don't understand ourselves. It havocs with your brain." The asari admitted unable to look me directly in the eye. She was just as confused as I was. Even I could see that.

"What the hell does that mean?" I said looking around more confused than ever which everyone seemed off put by what they had to say.

"Alec transferred the role of Pathfinder...to you." SAM cut in quickly in my head. No. NO! WHY ME! WHAT THE SHIT! "In short. You're the new Pathfinder." Cora said at the same time as SAM making it harder to believe. Everything went numb and silent as I focused on nothing. How can this be happening?

"You can't be fucken serious." I said in bewilderment which Liam shrugged the statement off. "You showed leadership skills. I think you're up for it." EASY FOR YOU TO SAY. WE ARE TALKING BIG DECISIONS THAT JEOPARDIZE HUNDREDS OF LIVES AND IT FALLS TO ME?! THIS HAS TO BE A FUCKEN NIGHTMARE!

"Alec was a N7...I'm not that kind of soldier." I broke down admitted lowly to everyone. It was obvious that I didn't see the potential in myself. The asari and Cora had doubts, but not Scott and Liam. Up to it or not. It's my turn to lead...that's why he brought ME her in the first place. I was his backup plan encase this very moment happened. I get that. NOT AT THE FIRST FUCKEN MISSION! WHAT THE HELL?!

"It doesn't matter. SAM is linked to your mind on a deeper level." The asari explained at a basic level, as she walked toward screen to my right but not touching the screen. "Untangling...could kill you." She finished with a sigh. The screen showed bunch of warning signs around my link in my brain. In short, if they tried they wouldn't know where to begin. Shit!

"I know, this is...a lot. We got to think forward. There are people counting on us to find a home since Habitat 7 was a bust." Cora cut in trying to make me realize the reality that was happening around me. Everything felt like a dream. Not real. Is this real? Am I back at home waiting to be woken up from a drunken dream? That was until my sore body ached again and the kink of my neck made me realized this was real. Yet, everything feel so visceral and real.

"So, what happens how." I sighed trying to dry off my cheeks with my forearm since the gloves were a bit rougher then I liked, using the fabric of the environmental suit to wipe the half-dried tears. I wasn't feeling just sorrow for loosing Alec or anger toward him giving me the position of Pathfinder. It's fear. The fear of the overwhelming responsibly of 100,000-200,000 souls resting on my shoulders. Yeah, it's not the fate of the galaxy but still a lot of people counting on me to find them a home to build.

"Since the dark energy cloud cleared up. We are heading to the rally point now. The Nexus should be waiting for us." Cora answered sounding like a sergeant reporting to a lieutenant. The Nexus? What is Wade Barrett going to lead me to a WWE Championship? I couldn't help but to think.

"He needs to rest first!" The asari said defensively toward Cora. Cora knew that but it couldn't be helped, she is just as scared as everyone else. I can see it in her body language. What am I supposed to keep going with no fucken issues at all? Pretend that one of my closest friends isn't dead along with a planet that was supposed to be our home, be a bust? I doubt that she is that thick-headed. I got my ass kicked back there as well and my body needs at least two days to heal.

"I'll go see how long it will take, but we will need our Pathfinder for this." Cora responded as if she was doubtful of my skills and I didn't blame her. Cora gave a nod before heading out first. I wasn't a hero. I never was or will be.

The asari walked up to me slowly. "If you need to talk..." She started to say but I just gave her a nod of understanding what she meant. She slowly walked out as well leaving Scott, Liam and myself in SAM node.

"I don't blame you for any of this...I want you to know that." Scott said again as if he was reassuring me and patted me on the back before walking out with Liam. I sat alone in SAM node for a moment.

"Alec will be missed." SAM reported in my head causing me to close my eyes and rub the side of my temples. "So you know, this is our private channel. I shared it with Alec previously." Causing me to nod my head, now understanding the whole thing of it. Alec and his crazy ass experiments. "Does this bother you? Having an AI in your head?" SAM asked robotic. It sounded like like he had feelings.

"No, not really to be honest but...why me?" I had to ask which SAM replyed. "Reason unconfirmed. He never acted without reason." This caused me to chuckle though the sadness of loss. "Sounds like Alec. But continue." I said coughing rubbing my hands together as I tried wrapping my mind around this issue. "Alec asked for me to not lose sight of the goal. He said that pain embodies our resolve. He insisted we grow stronger...YOU would grow stronger. He believed in you." SAM added before going quite for some time.

I sighed shaking my head. That bastard always was like that. He kept pushing me forward for a bigger role but I never wanted it. I guess this is his way of saying "Fuck you, Get off you're ass!". I never understood it myself, but I guess he seen talent in me. I stood up regardless and started walking for the door. I slept for too long now. I walked out of SAM node as the asari gave me a look like a mother angry at her child. It was weird. Almost as if she expected that I would walk out at some point soon. "No, you must rest!" She insisted.

"I rested once I get something off my chest." I extended my arm to her in a pleading manor which perplexed her. "Show me to medical. Just...Do me a big favor along the way and ask for the pathfinder team to be there in ten minutes. I got something to get off my chest." I asked politely as I could while fired up barely able to walk. My body felt like ground beef, yet I refused to stay down. Not now. "No! I you're too weak!" The asari was getting more assertive now as a doctor. I just forced myself to lean against the wall and walk there myself, grunting and moaning in pain the whole way there. With each step felt like my body was about to give out at any moment. The asari just shook her head and grabbed my arm and pulled around her neck while using her bionics to make me a bit lighter for her to carry. I was practically dead weight plus wearing armor didn't help at all.

"You might be the most stubborn human I ever met." She spat elegantly as she helped me to the tram station. "Sorry, I forgot your name?" I had to say scratching the back of my head with my other hand right when she pulled me away from the wall. She didn't answer right away until she sat me down in one of the seats on the Tram to medical. "Dr. Lexi T'Perro." Which made me blink dumbfounded and fumbled pronouncing her last name.

"I got to ask but you're a Asari? Right?" This forced her to give me the dumbest look imaginable. I'm talking meme worthy. I wish I could have taken a photo, honestly. I had to keep my..."unfamiliarity" with the aliens. Mostly, I didn't want to explain I'm from an alternate reality that they were a part of a video game and blah, blah, blah. Raise more questioned and think I'm insane then I already am.

"You never met an Asari before?" Lexi said giving me strange looks while crossing her arms and sitting in one of the seats crossing her legs and crossing her arms as if she was pissed off or something. I focused on her then myself to help not think about all the negative things that have been happening. So far, We're fucked.

"It's complicated really, I'll explain when we gather everyone." I admitted tucking my lips inward with an awkward look on my face which made Lexi give me now a studying stare with her blank expression. Asari don't really change expressions to much. Almost as if it would damage their beauty or something. Their tone can be angry or their eyes, but they don't show facial expressions like human's do. "Yeah, SAM do you have records of the "New York Times" in that era?" I asked out loud looking around hoping he would.

"Affirmative, Pathfinder Schmitt." SAM responded which made me clap my hands. "Excellent." I said rather happily while feeling like I could do a dance if not for my body feeling like swiss cheese. "I also have all of your personal, Alliance records, and of your imprisonment." SAM said in the private channel. "What information do you have...on my first mission?" I questioned as my eyes hardened for a moment. "Indeed. I have everything about that mission. It was trialing but, Alec did manage to keep every detail of you're career alive in a secure file." SAM Reported. "That's even better, When the time is right...we will make it public but prepare to copy and send all that data to everyone I work directly. Don't send until I'm...ready." I asked which made the asari more confused to what I'm talking to SAM about. "Affirmative."

"Is everything alright?" Lexi asked in a tone as if she was worried about her well-being.

"Oh, hell no. I'm all fucked up right now." I answered truthfully. "I feel like I went a round with a Bengal Tiger." This caused the Asari just gave me a cold stare, of sorts. "...I just have something tell everyone since they been asking questions about me. I figured. It's better to get it out now before we move further. I honestly don't care if it goes public either." I admitted rubbing my face with my gloves then realizing I was still in my armor. I felt my thin beard hair move with the rubbing though my suit. "Could I have some clothing as well? Sorry, for asking for so much." I chuckled.

Lexi nodded seemingly more relaxed now and she gave a faint smile. She was extremely attractive to be fair, then again. I think all Asari are. Perhaps that's the point about asari. They look what you think is attractive, although I much go for personality. Yeah, She could have a slamming body that could fuck you senseless, but...what comes after that. The little moments, ya know. She had that elegant look to her that really made me relax. As if I could rely on her for anything. A motherly vibe.

"You shouldn't stress yourself so much. After..." which I looked to her with a small smile fading remembering my strong bond with Alec who just died. She reminded me of my mom, so damn much. Always concerned for my well being, yet I know she concerned for everyone's well being before her own. She IS a doctor, so I don't think there is a romantic feelings toward me, more friendship. "Look. This isn't my first time dealing with a server loss. I'm OK...I'll take a nap when I get this off my chest...Deal?" I reassured her calmly, slightly extending a armored hand to her which she smiled elegantly, but grabbed with force and shook. "Deal." She had a dark growl that I knew if I broke this deal then I was a dead man.

It took me a bit to get down the steps and when we entered the medical room where some of the soldi...explorers from earlier were staying to be check up on or treated. Scott was already there checking on his sister who experienced statis pod issues. Liam wasn't right behind him so who knows where HE is. "So what's the emergency meeting for? Why so soon?" Scott asked right way confused.

"Once everyone is here. I'll explain with the help of SAM to proof to you that I'm not making shit up." I said as Lexi helped me to one of the flat medical bed. I seethed and grunted as I sat on the edge of the bed.

It wasn't much longer until everyone showed up. I was taking off the shoulder pieces of my armor as Lexi, Scott, Cora, Liam, and even Dr. Carlyle gathered around me. In that exact order. Dr. Carlyle was the last to gather since attending to the injured. "Ohhhk, I'm going to sound absolutely insane for tell this story, but SAM is going to send you all my personal files that Alec decided to keep locked up. It's a lot to grasp, so be warned." I started taking time to looked each and every one of them in the eye as I spoke.

"You were born in the year 1992?!" Liam gave me a strange look of pure puzzlement. "So what? You're the oldest man alive." This last statement caused a vain in my head to bulge from me trying to hold back my rage. THIS FUCKEN KID!

"To explain. Yes, I was born in 1992. I guess life was normal until 2013. I was 21 or so, when I came home drunk from the bar and slipped somehow though a wormhole as scientists believe. To be honest, I don't have the foggiest idea how or why it happened." I said truthfully as I could as some of my old personal records reveled I went missing all those universes. That doesn't explain how I crossed the threshold of reality to fiction. THAT is what bugs me the most. Then again...does it matter anymore? That was well over 5 years ago. I'm HERE now, so fuck it. Might as well keep going at this point.

"So what you woke up on some futuristic city of you're hometown?" Scott joked half-heartily. I liked to think we both knew he didn't understand how or why as much as anyone else in this room. The evidence was very illogical, yet all the evidence fits.

"No." I said bluntly which made everyone even more confused with a sinister atmosphere. "I grew up in the northeastern United States my entire life, I happen to wake up on some farm in Texas. I was founded by Hatsu Takahashi and trained by his crazy ass grandfather."

"Wait! DID YOU SAY HATSU TAKAHASHI!" Scott snapped stepping forward with a stunned look in his eyes. This made me draw a complete blank of how Scott Ryder knew him and DIDN'T KNOW ME! THE FUCK! DAMN THAT, HASU!

"He was the original designer of the SSV Normandy!" Scott jumped as a techy-nerdy school girl would! phhhfftttt, WHAT!? THAT SHIT HEAD WAS THE ORIGINAL DESIG- After that my brain went into shock from mental overload. I was best friends with the guy who DESIGNED MY BABY GIRL'S SHIP! WHAT THE FUCK IS MY LIFE!

"So, that dirtbag designed something that the Alliance could actually use?" I spoke matter of factually, with a bit of a laugh as I relaxed a bit now working on my gauntlets. The tension and weight off my body was fantastic. I had one hell of a workout in this damn thing. Not my style to be honest. I needed something lighter since it kinda digs into my skin when I move. I wasn't comfortable at all in combat situations. Sounds like Hatsu's work...in fact. I wouldn't be surprised it was picked up by Alec and created for this Initiative.

"That dirtbag was a brilliant scientist!" Scott spat at me telling me I should show more respect for the friend. They didn't know like Su like I did. He would want me too insult him even in death because that was how our friendship was. We insulted each other and were driven to be better then each other. A western man who trained like a Samurai and the eastern man who became a gun-slinging, cowboy. That was Su's vision of us two. Reason why he got me to do the training in the first place. I didn't want to since I wasn't Japanese and felt it wasn't my culture. He disputed the fact foreigners have done it in the past. Which in turned convinced his grandfather. His grandfather...didn't go easy on me one bit... "Wait...if history is correct. Didn't Hatsu Takahashi die during the First Contact War?" Cora remembered and pointed out.

"That is because the System Alliance covered it all up once Pathfinder Schmitt was arrested by Turian Forces in the year 2157 during the First Contact War." SAM pinged in showing a blue ball behind me. I looked up and realized SAM was taking over the rest of the information since none of them were believing me. "Schmitt was the first test subject of Cryo freezing." SAM added as everyone started checking their omi-tools reading over my file.

"He was the first test subject?" Liam pointed out sounding completely confused on what is even going on.

"I served under him most of my Alliance career that was until...the relay incident. I was there during the relay incident. You see during 2157, your father asked me to investigate a squad to see if they were or weren't spies working for some secret agency or something along those lines. Truth was...They did. Killed my partner in cold blood. That was Hatsu Takahashi." I said with a heavy sigh holding on to my hips at the mention of Hatsu looking down at the ground. I didn't want to explain this but I had to. It's apart of moving on. "They shot me in the back and left me for dead." I further explained with small grunts as I started taking off the chest piece of the hardsuit. Lexi even began helping lift the armor off my shoulders that relived a great amount of weight from my shoulders. Both physically and as I explain this emotionally. I needed something to focus on as I tell this bit. "Lucky for me, those Turians decided to drag me with them and patch me up. I thought I was dead to be honest."

"Wait. What happened to the ones that shot you?" Cora spoke up trying to make sense of all this craziness as was everyone else. She kept up faster then everyone else and all the information from Alec directly proved I wasn't bullshiting her. Everyone was sitting down and listening. Even the injured were listening in and had their eyes pointed my direction.

"I was just getting to that." I continued looking at Cora rubbing my sore shoulders. God damn, is that armor uncomfortable in combat. "I was taken to the Citadel for proper medical treatment and interrogation. Instead, I told a Turian Commander named Ramiril everything that I was assigned to do. Once they figured out our language. Something about "Operation Ceberus"." I said and stopped for a moment to start taking off the upper half of my environmental suit, while Lexi was the only one helping me. Once she seen that my body was black and blue all over, she started doing more thorough scan to make sure I didn't have broken bones or torn ligaments. I continued, not bothering the doctor. "During my entire treatment at the Citadel I was treated with more respect then I imagined. All my reports given to me by the what I think the leader's themselves. Apparently, Alec."

I started then looked at Scott. "Your father, decided to work with Commander Ramiril to find this squad. They managed to capture and detain one of them, at the same time managed together evidence clearing me of any war crime, BUT. During the Alliance's counter strike to retake Shanxi, he or she got loose. Wounding Ramiril in the process. His evidence fell to his LT. The main problem, I was still convicted of attempting to activate a dormant mass relay." I said hanging my head with a sigh.

"WOW. That is a lot." was all Liam could exhale while listening to my story. "Yeah, I was given a choice. Fifteen years in Turian Prison...or an experimental "Cryo" Imprisonment by the salarians. I chose the Cryo Imprisonment and I woke up here. Worse yet, I find out that my daughter...turned out better with me of a person then me." I finished a unenthusiastic wave of my hand, while looking down at the floor. "I asked SAM together my evidence and... I figured you all had the right to know, who you are working with."

None of them spoke. "That is a lot. But who is you're daughter." Scott said looking at me in wonderment. I lowered my head and somberly sat for a moment.

"He is the father of one Commander Shepard. Or Commander Schmitt. She legal changed her name before departure to the Citadel after, The Battle of the Citadel. As a wave of goodbye to her father." SAM reported as tears slipped past me and formed in my eyes. The asari was the only one to reach out and touch my back very briefly. "Now...Rest..." She said calmly.

"Holy shit." Liam spewed in awe of the story's conclusion as he had to sit down in the empty bed next to me running his hand though his thick curly, hair. "Fuck." Scott added as well. Cora had a look of sympathy for me since she could tell how much it pained me to not be in my daughter's life.

"Yeah, I lived it and I can't believe what the hell is going on." I chuckled to myself lightly while scratching the back of my head and wiped the tears away. "So, What I am asking...I'm going to need help...A LOT of help. From each of you. I been out of the game for some time...the rest is in the file and it only gets worse." I admitted looking at each of them. "I'm not going to hide who I am or my past sins. I never been that kinda guy. Judge me how you like."

Lexi walked up and pushed on my shoulder. "Rest...You deserve it." She said quietly again. "If my dad had your back then...then I will too." Scott said with a nod stepping forward. "Me too." Liam said also stepping causing Cora to sigh. "I hope you know what you're doing at least."

"Not a fucken clue." I snickered which Cora gave me a "not so surprised" faint smile as if she was expecting me to say that...She learns. "Oh, Cora. Since I noticed you acting Sargent as of late...I want to name you "Second." This caused Cora's whole vibe to change. Her back straightened quicker then shit as she nodded. "Someone needs to keep these two knuckleheads in line." I smirked at her which she gave a straight stance with both of her crossed arms behind her back. She was a soldier though and though. Reminds me of Alec in many, many ways. Liam and Scott both of them gave grumpy looks at what I said. "Yes, Sir." She proudly said with a bit of bass in her chest. "Now, I'm going to take a nap, so take it easy. Everyone. No over doing it, that's a order. Just wake me up when we get to this..."Nexus." I said laying back on the medical bed. The rest cleared out to handle the rest of the information as they please.

I laid their for a moment as I heard everyone's footsteps cleared the room unless they were medical staff. I seen in the corner of my eye that Lexi never leaving my side as she did scans. "You're stronger of a human then I thought." She clarified. "You maybe the only human who truly understands a Asari or Krogan lifespan." This forced me too looked confused at her. "Asari and Krogan lives can span to one thousand years. You're the oldest human alive. If it's ok. I'd like to do some scanning of you're DNA." Lexi explained and asked politely.

"Yeah, Sure. Just give me a heads up when ever you prick me with a needle." I stated which Lexi seemed to force a smile? That's not reassuring. I gave a yawn as I relaxed and closed my eyes and slowly drifted into a deep heavy sleep. Hell, I slept so hard, I don't even remember my dreams.

It couldn't been long until I felt someone shaking me. "Schmitt, Captain Dunn wishes to see you before we dock." Cora said jerking me awake. "How long was I out?" I thought as I yawned. "4 hours, 37 minutes and 56 seconds." SAM reported in my head. Ugh, Could have needed for another hour or so.

I slowly got up. "Can't have you walking around half naked. Some fresh clothing would help. This way." She admitted and started walking. I realized I was only wearing my lower hardsuit as I yawned.

"Get enough sleep?" Cora asked with a smirk looking over her shoulder at me while we took the tram to the other part of the Hyperion. I noticed something with this SAM being connected to me. Everything is like 20/20 vision now, and then some. If I focused then my vision would ZOOM IN? Without binoculars. I don't have to squint to make out smaller symbols since I was somewhat near sighted. My reaction seemed enhanced as well. Is this SAM's true potential? You know what. I won't argue. It's Alec's last gift and I'll take it with no complaints. I mean, historically this shit is going to back fire at SOME point, eh fuck it. We will cross that bridge when we come to it.

"I slept enough." I chuckled. "I just didn't wanna piss off Lexi, so I just took the nap anyway."

"Smart choice. Asari are biologically gifted with biotics." Cora proudly said which caught my attention how highly she spoke of the Asari. It seemed she was fond of them or just like to be around them.

"Really? I would have never guessed." I made a "not bad" face as I spoke following Harper. I KNEW that but again. Playing dumb as hell. "So, let me ask you. What do you think of Scott." I finally asked as we got onto the tram.

"I think that's hardly appropriate." Cora deflected instantly as the doors closed and she leaned against the wall near the touch screen of the Hyperion. I sat down in the seats of the Tram chuckling. My body was still sore as fuck but at least I could move around on my own but still at a slow pace.

"Oh, come on! I seen you eyeballing his ass. More than once, no less." I blurted out causing Cora to blush HARD as she turned away to hid the fact she was blushing in the first place. She was pouty about the fact that I was teasing her about it. It was cute.

"I don't think we should be having this discussion about squad mates." Cora responded turning away hiding her blush which got me giggling.

"Don't worry. I think the feeling is mutual." I coughed causing Cora to turn to me in surprise while playing with her hair. There was this longest pause until Cora finally struck up to ask. "Has...He said anything about me?" Cora asked after a minute or two of silence which made me grin from ear to ear. I had to fuck with her at this point. She nervously walked over and sat next to me.

"Maybe once when he saw those weird dragon-like things flying around. 'I wish Cora could see this.'" I mimicked Scott, while remembering what he said on Habitat 7. "Not only that, but he practically fixated at your ass. Both figuratively and Literally." This caused Cora to pout more in such cute way. Aww Cora is adorable when she is angry...

"Would you have a problem..." Cora started to ask but then I just quickly responded. "Nope." Out of nowhere, Cora elbowed me in the ribs enough to bend forward because she knocked the wind out of me. "Let me finish the question." She snapped.

The rib shot was hard causing me to bend over forward. My body screamed in pain. "Look." I coughed up, while holding up one finger as she pouted. "It's not my business what you two do. This isn't the military." I finally responded while trying to recover from the hit. "Your personal life, is your personal life and I won't interfere with that." I said truthfully this caused Cora to look at me in the corner of her eyes still pouting. She is fucken pissed. Great. Damn did that shot suck, she got me good. "I gotta ask? Did you serve the Alliance? With those skills, you had to been trained." I coughed slightly.

"Yes, and with the Asari Commandos. Apart of the alien cross training that was issued some time after Shanxi to ease tension between the other species." Cora proudly admitted to the point that anyone could tell that she admired the Asari people greatly. "Ah. No shit?" I was amused by this bit of information. "That had to been cool as fuck." I had to admit still kinda amused. This is the kinda shit I was hoping for. A human that learned a aliens tactics. Now, that could prove handy.

"Huh?" She turned surprised by my reaction. "You think it's cool?" She look dumbstruck and caught off guard as we exited the tram. "Well, yeah. I'm no xenophobe, despite my previous encounters. Hell, I always thought we could learn a thing or two from any of the alien species." I began as we made our way though the Hyperion to the locker room. I started to undo my lower half of my gear storing it in my locker, once we got there of course.

"So, I read you're file of you're...first mission." Cora pointed out just as I slammed my locker closed at this conversation out of reaction. I placed my head against the door and sighed. "Look, That mission..." I started which Cora sprang to side of the locker half naked, cutting me off. "Look, I don't blame you for doing what you have to but...All I wanted to know...Where some of the soldiers... actually children?" I glanced over at her slightly to see the sympathy in her.

"Yeah. I stopped counting around the twenties. They were mentally broken so I couldn't save them. The alliance couldn't do shit either, since the ones that did manage to break away ended up enlisting as pirates or working for criminals. That whole mission was fucked from the start." I said bitterly which Cora just lowered her head. I couldn't help but to check her out and DAMN did she have a gorgeous body. I coughed at her which snapped her out of her little funk and she bashfully jumped to the other side of the locker.

"I-It's ok. I won't bring it up again." She said as I tried stretching my shoulders a bit, trying to get the fucken tension out of my shoulders. "That's what I keep telling myself. That's what everyone keeps telling me. But, the truth is...I wasn't right after that mission. It wasn't until after the Alliance turned me into a Killer, since I survived that mission as a new form of 7's. The kind that are the polar opposite of the N7's. The N serises was made to create the new heroes for the Alliance. The goal to make us a B series, of some kind. We took part of the really dirty work that no one wanted to do. Assassination, smuggling, blackmail." This caused Cora to shake her head in denial.

"W-What?" She acted shocked by this information. "The Alliance wouldn't do anything like that!" She calmed rather defensively, but not in a forceful tone. More like a mixed between calm and aggravated.

I frowned. "That is only just black ops work. I have a crazy conspiracy theory to it all, and I think the Alliance on purposely selected soldiers with mental conditions that would turn them into criminals, murders, rapist, freedom fighters, pirates, and so on. The true purpose was because of crooked politicians trying to pump more money into the military then anything else. They needed the common foke to feared something out there and enlist to protect what little they had. Some part of me believes they knew about the turians. That is just my conspiracy theory though. I do know for a fact that they turned threw away soldiers with poor mental conditions instead of giving them treatment they deserve. Or else those soldiers in that first mission of mine would have never became pirates in the first place."

Cora was flat out stunned by this information and couldn't believe my crack pot theory. I could hear Cora just gave me a rough sniff. She sounded bitter and salty as all hell, though I did notice she gave me a once over look. "How did you stay sane then?" Cora asked as walked around the locker and from the sound she started remove her armor. I don't know why, but she was still in her armor. Maybe helping out with the repairs outside? I opened the locker as I stood naked in the locker room, to see a black "Blasto" tanktop with black paints and shoes with white trim. The entire time we respected each other's privacy.

While starting to get dressed while giving a depressive sighed. "Alec managed to stop the entire thing, mostly. He exposed it before it truly bloomed. I was one of the few "trial runs", so to speak. Many higher ups were flushed out and went for a new direction and that was the absolute protection of Earth. The Alliance wasn't all sunshine and rainbows, kid. We committed espionage, black mail, and other colorful things to nations and colonies to make sure they had the "Big Picture" in mind. Just so they didn't break away as a independent nation or fraction. I was young and dumb, only following orders at the time. So. It's more like a blur, really. Let's say I was good at what I did. Being a pathfinder is going to be a whole different beast. I acknowledge that much. I use to work in the shadows. This time...I wanna bring everything into the spotlight, so I figured why hide my past since the past always finds a way to bite you in the ass one way or another." I let out with finally as I finally got done dressing. Ryder knew my sense of style but a fucken "Blasto" shirt? I never watched it so how the hell will I know I'll want to wear it. He knows I only wear shit I love. Bands, Quotes from TV shows and movies, Anime, etc. I noticed a little gift from Alec. A whole bag too...

I was finished dressing faster then Cora and waited for her to say "done." Rounding the lockers as I looked at her. She wore the short sleeve, black and blue Initiative outfit. "So, Do I look the part?" I smirked since I knew I didn't look the part. Cora raised a eyebrow at me as if she like what she saw or something. "No professionally. But, as you said...were not military anymore..." She cooled as if it was hard for her to break the life style.

"With that kind of tone, Scott might get jealous." I teased causing Cora just rolled her eyes before walking away. I shrugged and gave a light jog to catch up with her since she wasn't that far ahead. I couldn't help but to laugh as she took me to the captain. She gave me a jab to the shoulder and man did she have one hell of a right hook. Those two would do each other some good. Me...I don't know...romance was never on my side. I'm ok with that, though. Perhaps maybe I should try dating aliens and see where that goes? Who knows...might work out better.

We got to the main hall of the bridge where Scott and Liam were waiting. "Geez, what took you so long. We are almost there." Liam said with his arms crossed, tapping two fingers on his bicep. They were in their causal gear in mostly white and light blue colored outfits. Scott gave me a smirk as if he didn't expect anything less then the fact, I looked like I crawled out of bed.

"Yeah, Yeah." I said as all of us walked into the bridge causing Captain Dunn to turn around. "Schmitt! Good to see your walking around." Dunn said warmly. "I see, you're reputation precedes you." Dunn chuckled then turned to the large window. "There the Nexus. The forward hub of the entire Initiative. The Asari, Salarian, and Turain arks should be there already."

"Woah, Brought the whole gang, huh?" I said realizing not just humanity went with this crazy-ass expedition, but then again Alec fucken told me. I don't want to make a scene and just skip over the shallow drama shit. "Yeah but let's hope they had better luck then we did." Scott said as he stepped next to me with a nod. What the fuck? The kid is kinda like my nephew in a strange way. Hell, I was a uncle before I was born, so the feeling is pretty much the same. Eh, if he wants to step up then fuck it. He has to earn his fucken spot, no different then everyone else. No special treatment.

"Within ten minutes of approaching the Nexus." One of the pilots said as I grabbed a empty chair and relaxed backwards. I got ten minutes yet. Sweet. Everyone looked at me oddly, I propped my feet on the unused console in front of me and had my hands behind my head. Dunn gave a raised eyebrow and a small smirk. "What? What the fuck is standing around like a bunch of serious jackasses going to change our current situation?" I stated in a levelheaded tone. Dunn couldn't help to shake her head at me but was smiling, as if all the rumors about me were true. I am a guy from the past that came to the future. In that split second, I noticed something was wrong. I squinted my eyes and really focused on the Nexus. With SAM heightened my sight to 20/20 vision, plus the now zoom. Not only did it make things a lot easier to notice, but a lot worse. Just by looking at it, the Nexus looked completely incomplete or worse. A ghost ship. Almost had barely any power since only very few lights would be glowing from here. It was dark as hell. I leaned forward. "Something isn't right..." I mumbled which only Scott and Cora gave me a strange look then took a hard look toward the Nexus trying see what I'm seeing.

"It's almost as big as the citadel back home." Liam commented the large space station. Naw, I think the citadel was bigger but then again...It was much brighter.

The Nexus looked like a ghost ship than anything else. "Nexus, this is the Ark Hyperion. Requesting docking clearance." The pilot of the Ark said out loud and waited for a response. Nothing. Just silence for a good minute, minute and a half. "Captain, I'm getting an automated response. Not a live person." At this second Dunn darted her eyes to me which I knew something was wrong.

"This isn't good. The Nexus looks like a ghost ship if you ask me." I had to add causing everyone to grow uneasy at the realization what that could mean. Where the fuck is everyone else? This is Steven King level of spooky shit!

"Looks like we have little choice. We're going in." Captain Dunn said looking at the pilot while grabbing onto the barricade in front of us tightly. "Aye, Aye." the pilot responded.

We approached the Nexus causing me to get worried. I got a bad feeling about this. I said looking at the half-built structure. It looked like they stopped quarter of the way. For what though. It felt like we were heading into an Aliens movie. Why does this shit keep happening...?

"Construction should have been finished by now." Cora muttered as she stood on the other side of Scott looking at the large window at the unfinished Nexus.

"Could be worse?" Liam said looking around feeling hopeful or as if nothing was wrong at all which made me give him a dumb look.

"How? Habitat 7 was a bust, we might start a war with the first aliens we met, and our pathfinder is dead. No offence." Scott lashed out then looked at me which I shrugged, "none taken." then continued his rant. "This better be rock bottom." You know what...I'm fucken GLAD I'm not the only one who isn't growing fucken paranoid of our train of luck. Smart intuition, He IS stepping up. I like it.

"I'm just glad, I'm not the only one who sees what deep shit we're in." I turned to Liam being bit relaxed. "Mr. Costa, Do you know what Murphy's Law is?" I asked in a open tone. Liam just gave a inquisitive look as if he had no clue. "Nothing is easy as it looks, Everything takes longer then you expect, IF anything can go wrong, IT will go wrong...and at the worst possible moment." I said staring into the back of Liam's skull making sure he heard what I said and made it clear as possible.

"Remember those words. It might save you're ass one day." I said simply as I could. I turned my heels and approached Dunn when I heard. "Green lights across the board, ma'am. Docking Initiated." The pilot said causing me to look at Dunn who gave me a nod. "Alright, I got us here. It's up to you now, Pathfinder." Dunn said giving me all the encouragement one could give considering the events that followed as of late. Fuck!

"Before I go...I need to grab something." I said in a whisper for self confidence then anything else. I turned to B-line out the bridge with Scott, Cora and Liam in right on my heels. "What do you need?" Liam questioned which I didn't bother since I noticed that Alec left me a little something, something in my locker. I stopped at the locker room and grabbed it. A little...pick me up for "political emergencies".

"Murphy's Law, Huh? I like it." Cora commented on to my left which made me give her a surprised expression with Scott chuckling to my far right. I don't know why but Liam just tries standing at my right side. This is one weird crew and I have a funny feeling that were going to add to the pile soon.

We lucky didn't have to wait for a tram and boarded it to immediately head to the Nexus's "welcoming center".

"Can't see some friend faces at least." Scott couldn't help himself speak out first as he leaned against the wall of the tram.

"The Nexus runs just a support group to build the Nexus until the other Arks arrive." Cora turned to me and explained everyone who all on the Nexus is, and this great time to learn the true function of this Initiative's design as a whole.

"I hope they build a bar at least." This caused me to rise my eyebrows at him as if it was the stupidest fucken thing I ever heard. A bar? "You expect a bar with a half-finished Nexus floating around?" I questioned his hopefulness.

"Considering our luck as late, I could go for a buzz." Liam said plain as day and to be honest...I see his point, but really? A bar is more important then hospitals, armories, and living areas?

"We all could." Scott agreed to disagree.

"We will bounce back. Real food and showers dead ahead." Cora started to be hopelessly optimistic.

I kept my mouth shut until we arrived. I think it's better to wait and see. Just as the tram started to come to a stop and the doors opened. Right away, my hope was stomped out, when I saw a panel open as wires caused sparks in the left corner of small room in front of us. Fucken hell...When the doors opened it was so dark, I could barely see. "Uh, where is the Champagne?" Liam said looking around the dark room.

"Costa, Harper. Come here." I said rubbing my brow with my hand in frustration. The two got close as I waved them over. The two looked rather nervous. "What did I say...Murphy's...Law." I said slowly and clearly to the both of them.

Scott just fell awkwardly quiet as he brought out a handheld flashlight and walked forward though the darkness to spawn some kind of light. "If it seems good to be true, it probably is." I said sternly pointing at both before walking away when Scott triggered a blue VI that instantly pinged. "Welcome to the gateway to Andromeda. I'm Avina, a virtual intelligence designed to help you with Immigration." The two fell behind from that harsh lesson as the VI granted some form of Light in this section. I studied all around me to try to remember the distance of the objects around me, so I didn't run into anything.

Liam couldn't resist himself joking. "Where is the surprise party?" Which caused me to turn at him giving him a raised eyebrow when the VI responded with "I'm sorry, my code is limited to the information and simple interactions." Liam just shuffled a bit. "I'll shut up now." Liam said putting his hands behind his back and tightening his lips. He's learnnning...Good. This one is going to be a major pain in the ass to train, but still got to be fair. They will be the future after all. The pathfinder team will one day break off from me when they have no use of me anymore. I can already predict this. I will have to step up as well...Hopefully, I will do her proud.

"What year is it?" I asked the VI as I turned to it.

"The current year is 2819. After spending over 600 years in stasis. It's normal to feel disoriented or confused." The VI responded instantly causing me to nod at the information.

"At least the date is right." Cora pointed out. Well that means they have minimum power to have a VI still operational. Where the hell is everyone else?

"That's all." I said rubbing my eyebrows with my pointer finger and thumb in frustration thinking of the worst possible conclusion and lets work from there. If things can get better if I find someone ALIVE.

"It is my pleasure. Please seek one of the immigration staff for further questions. Current immigration wait time is. UNKNOWN ERROR." That UNKOWN ERROR screeched made me shake my head at the loud screech...what the fuck? Did my hearing increase? What the fuckkk?

"That was...helpful." Cora commented bitterly shaking her head who also flinched at the screech of the VI. She sounded like it was nails on a chalkboard for her too.

"See. Never take anything for granted." I said just as bitterly. "Yeah, We get it." Cora responded which I quickly started to walk down once I heard something hit the floor in the distance. The small walkway with alien flowers that were alive on both sides of the walkway. That's when I seen a small glimpse of moving light, up head. I pointed forward which everyone else was now alert and followed. Around the corner of boxes was a man working on some junction box. "Hey, buddy. We from the Ark Hyperion. So where is everyone." I said looking around at the unpacked boxes and crates that filled the area. The worker looked stunned and almost fell over. "Did you say an "Ark"?" He gasped in surprise as his tool fell to the floor making a loud nose. Yup, SAM is a BIG upgrade. He jumped at the sight of us. It was like he didn't expect us being here.

"Do you understand the words coming out of my mouth?" I asked to dumbfound which the worker just snapped himself out of his little trance. It was some caucasian kid and with orange construction gear on and hardhat. "Sorry, it's just...We thought you were dead..." The worker admitted lowly.

"WHAT!" Cora was stunned by this worker choice of words. "Or Captured. Or lost in dark space. But you're here, you have no idea how much this means." He continued in more a causal and boom of relief at the end. What the fuck happened here?

I was stunned which as well made me do a double take on this guy and before I could respond another deeper, thicker voice said something behind us. "I don't believe it." said chuckling. That tone...that voice! Commander Ramiril?

As I turned to see that massive Turain with his X marking now faded out over a aging face. He had both his legs robotic, which means he lost his legs during the chase. This caught me a bit off guard. He extended his claw like hand to mimic a handshake. "It's been a long time...Hasn't it. Corporal Schmitt" Ramiril stated coolly as he was. "Holy shit, Commander Ramilirl? What the fuck are the chances?" I chuckled grabbed his claw firmly which his massive taloned hand engulfed mine. It was like it was a honor to me in friendly terms. Ramiril chuckled at my response. "That's what I liked about you. I can never tell what you'll say next." He grinned. He have one hell of a grip. I thought he was going to break my hand.

"Well, Since you know me. This is Cora Harper, Liam Costa, and Scott Ryder. We are a part of the pathfinder team." I responded quickly while trying to sound as professional as I could, while introducing everyone to the taller turian. Who could believe their meeting the Turian I mentioned and it now all becoming reality for them. A bell rang in his head and something made him to return to that old military straight back pose. "Pathfinder team?" He questioned instantly then looked at the floor for a second. "What happened to Alec Ryder?" Ramiliril questioned grimly.

"Dead...I'm afraid." I said just as grimly. "He-Ugh. Gave his life to save mine. Chose me as pathfinder." There was this low sad sigh coming from Ramilirl. "My condolences." Was all Ramilirl said before turning around and waved to follow him like a butler would. "I'm sorry for the confusion. Heleus is infamous for scrambling equipment. So, we can't trust our sensors, all too well." Ramiril confessed sincerely. "We thought you were just another malfunction."

"Malfunction? What you not a higher up?" I had to question which let him in a huff. "No. I am retired. I am this young one's foreman...As you human's call it." He said giving that old turian stance and I gotta say...He still got it. Intimidating as all hell. I noticed he wasn't exactly in armor but turian construction cloths in the same color patter as the asian guy. No hardhat. Huh? Missed opportunity.

"What's the issue?" I had to ask right away realizing there is more to everything that is going on.

"It's just...You're the first ark we ran into. After a year of waiting and no word from the other arks, we shuttered this area off and stopped looking." Ramiril looking around the area of boxes and crates and into the darkness as if he was expecting something to jump out from the depths of the shadows.

"A whole year?" I said dumbfounded. "Shit." I cursed realizing things must have gone bad. Real bad.

"Longer actually. Come on, I'll show you to Ops Center." Ramilirl spoke waving a talon for me to follow which I was right on his heels. Everyone else followed closely behind listing to the old turian speak. He has a richer, older tone now. It's pretty clear that is pushing 60's or 70's. Maybe older!

"So far, everything that could go wrong, has." This caused me to turn to the three. They all looked sad at the state everything has become. "Fourteen months ago. We hit a band of dark energy instantly upon arrival. Knocked us off course." Ramilirl reported as if the inner soldier came out again while showing us way to the tram.

"You're not the only one. Any clue what it is?" I asked following Ramilirl feeling my gut turn, the more he spoke of the bad news.

"Not really. We call it the "Scourge". It hit whole sections of the station, killing many in the process." Ramilirl said activating the tram when we all boarded. I had to sit down since I felt sick to be honest. It felt like we were on a one-way trip to hell...going down. How strange...just no stop bad news ever since Alec first said the first bad news. That is a fucken long ass bad news streak...Then again...that's my life...Oh well.

"No power or food. For months it was chaos." Ramilirl just kept reporting causing the room to go quiet making me look at Liam and Cora. They both kept their mouths shut feeling guilty that they had said such selfish things when such travesties were occurring on the Nexus that put us to shame. "It didn't end there. Eventually armed rebellion broke out. Order was restored, the insurgence was stomped out and banished. "Exiles" we call them."

"Fucken hell. What did the higher ups do?" I forced myself to ask rubbing my face roughly and running my fingers through my dark brown hair and rubbing my thin beard. I realized my hair was getting kinda long being slicked back. "Supposedly the Krogan was offered a deal to deal with the exiles, but nothing was ever put on record." I just buried my face in my hands as the Turian watched my reaction. I think he knew that things just got worse for us. "Did things go back to normal?" Cora asked looking at the turian being hopeful that something came together.

"Not even close. Since the krogan left...Things...looked beak." Ramilirl shot down and his voice lowered to a sound that I didn't like. "It's just I hate being so helpless..." He finally admitted.

"So, no word from ANYONE, armed rebellion, everything on the fritz." I added up looking up at the turian who seemed to give hints that I understood the gravity of the situation. "Fucken great. Worse yet, we had a first contact situation that went way south. The bastards tried killing us." I reported my fair share of bad news. I heard a friendly huff from the turian.

"That wasn't first contact. We are aware of them. Those aliens are going to be a big problem." Ramilirl nodded about the creatures making sigh in relief hoping I didn't fuck up another first contact opportunity. He gave a strong serious look at me at my exhale as if he was study me. We arrived at the Ops Center shortly after getting up to date about the Nexus. Liam walked off saying something about checking the security of things. What the hell can he do? Whatever, I had no issue with it.

"I should let you know our command structure has been fractured. Some are filling leaders who died or joined the "Exiles"." Ramilirl said at the beginning of the ramp. "This where I leave you. Good look. You're going to need it." He said with a warm chuckle and shook my hand one more time. Scott, Cora and I jogged up the ramp as Ramilirl watched on. We ran past two humans running by us talking about how they were supposed to drop everything and report for duty" to each other...And "no one was expecting an Ark to show up out of the blue." A Pale white turian with blue markings on his cheeks greet us at the top. It kinda seemed like passing of the torch from a certain point of view. Cora, Scott and I up to where the leaders were gathered at the large bridge of the Nexus. They had the shutter blocking a large window that would probably allow you to observe most of the Nexus wing.

"Tiran Kandros, I am the leader of the Militia. Right now I have other things I must attend. Please come seem me at security if you wish to talk. Please head to Ops Center." He shook my hand firmly, but not as firmly as Ramilirl. Then again. Ramilirl was fucken huge for a turian.

All the people of the bridge of the Nexus turned their direction toward me as I approached them with Cora and Scott by my side. Time to play politics...Fuck you, Alec. You know I hated this shit. Hatsu would be laughing in his grave. "YOU!? OF ALL PEOPLE!?" I could hear him bursting out laughter since he knew I didn't care for people much and have a short tempter when it comes to most kind of people. It was a female human and a salarian.

A salarian approached me warmly. "Ah, The crew of the Hyperion. I'm Jaran Tann. Director of the Initiative. You don't know how much your arrival means to us, BUT who are you? Where IS Alec Ryder?" The skinny salairan introduced asked looking right at me confused by my presence.

"Michael Schmitt. Alec is dead and named me Pathfinder." I stood my ground and spoke as if I was one. The Trio looked unnerved by this revelation. All right, I kinda deserve that. I mean...Who the fuck am I? I'm just some dweeb in a Blasto tank top as a big time leader of some kind. Then again, Like I give a shit.

The female walked up with her jaw wide from shocked and bewilderment of the news of Alec's fate. "Alec...is dead?"

"Sadly so..." I confirmed grimly at the information. This seemed to anger the human woman. "You seem to understand that the entire Initiative is at risk." She said boldly toward me which was already crawling under my skin as she snapped at me.

I held in my temper as best as I could since I understand, but screaming won't help a fucken thing! She walked away to a large computer and started typing away. "This is Foster Addison. She oversees Colonial Affairs." Tann introduced finally spoke causally. This just fabulous, not even five minutes in and I already got my head bitten off.

"All the golden worlds are a bust and no word from the other Arks." Addison announced as if she was relieving all the stress she as been holding back out in her words turning toward us after she was done with the computer bring up images of each of the "Golden worlds". I think she grew a couple of gray hairs in her short red hair.

"Right now, Our supplies are already depleted. Rationing gave us time, but even then, we are on borrowed time." Tann regretfully informed us something I already could figure out on my own. You got to be fucken kidding me I sigh closing my eyes pinching the bridge of my nose.

"We need more resources and that takes people, but we can't wake them up-." Addison being Captain Hindsight which was just rather annoying. I'm not the most Intellectual guy in the room and I could see that from a mile away.

"-Unless we have a golden world." Scott rolled his eyes and replied like an annoyed teen being lectured by parents.

"Now more than ever. We need a Pathfinder." Addison couldn't stress enough at the situation that was more obvious than a man wearing a ghillie suit in the middle of Walmart.

"Now falls to you, Schmitt. Are you up to it?" Tann asked shifting one foot to the other as I wasn't enjoying Tann's presence at all.

"I don't think we have an option here." I stated trying to hold myself from lashing out and be professional as I could be. These motherfuckers make we want to hit them over the head with a baseball bat.

"We need qualified help." Addison snapped causing my blood to boil over to the point, I thought I was going to pop a blood vessel.

"That's no way to treat a guest!" A booming voice said walking over toward us. It was a female krogan that was tall as me but wider. Krogan were as tall as a human but had the body mass of a black bear with the height nearing 6'4.

"Nakmor Kesh. Superintendent of this station. I hope they didn't scare you off, yet." Kesh seemed more laid back and friendly then the other two. Ok, her. I don't mind.

I leaned over to Scott. "She is a krogan." He whispered as I nodded mesmerized by her size and widened my eyes a bit of the name of the species. "It's nothing personal. Now, isn't the time for on-the-job training." Addison countered the krogan who just pretended she didn't exist.

"This Pathfinder seems willing to try at least. We need a fresh perspective." Kesh insisted defending me from the bureaucrats harassing me.

"You have my concerns." Addison said walking away in a huff as she mumbled something under her breath. Something about everyone here being idiots and fools.

"We are all feeling the pressure." Tann sighed watching Addison walk way angry at this whole work environment and issues. I mean, I can't completely blame her. It just it felt like she was blaming me for everything that went wrong. How could you believe you journey 600 years across dark space and not have something go wrong? Anything could happen. Supernovas, black holes, dark energy, or whatever the case.

"Stop by my office for a private word. I will be happy to discuss issuing you a scout ship with your associate." Tann spoke flirty to Cora as he looked at her. Cora gave me the best/worst "OMG, NO!" facial expression but I gave a nod at Cora to do it. She walked with Tann to his office. Along the way, Tann looked away from Cora causing her to turn to me giving me the middle finger. "Scott, do me a favor and have a word with Addison." I said turning to Scott who was again...fixated on Cora's ass. I just batted my eyes at him twice at him wondering how long it would take for him to realize his surroundings. "What? Oh, Addison...Right." He said awkwardly before walking away in a hustle. I lowered my head, shaking head along with a sigh. Fucken got his head up her ass.

Kesh started laughing at the interaction with my crew. "Welcome to the Nexus. Quite a handful of a crew, you got."

I snickered jamming my right hand in my pocket of my pants. "You're telling me, and thanks for the back up. I appreciate it." I said scratching the back of my head with my opposite hand.

"Hope is in a short supply. What little we could find, might have a chance to bloom." She was saying until a tech worker interrupted her. "Ma'am, the Hyperion core is now online." Kesh turned to the tech and smiled? "Let me show you something." Kesh offered toward the window.

"An hour ago. That was all dark. With the power from your ship. You're keeping the lights on, so you have my vote." Kesh said while activating few buttons causing the shutter to lower revealing the large incomplete wing that looks like it stretches out for miles. The lights on the bridge started slowly brightening up as well as the rest of the ship.

"What if the power runs out?" I asked since it would be better to ask just in case.

"Then you better have your chat with Tann. Make sure that doesn't happen." Kesh said as she started walking way. "Don't be shy. Come see me when you get the chance." She said as she walked away. I turned back to the large wing of the Nexus giving out a sigh. Yeah, Better go save Cora...Bah, she can wait a little longer. I wonder what Kandros is doing?

I walked by trying not to bother the technicians from doing their jobs and head down the steps as the lights started to turn on then down to the ramp in the direction of the security area. He did say he was head of the Nexus militia. When I got down to the ramp, he was standing next to a large circular table with a hologram of a planet floating at the center. It was clutter with books, weapons and parts of weapons.

"I know that look. They bent your ear, huh?" Kandros said leaning on the table causally while taking apart a rifle. It looked like he was clearing it.

"Yeah, they sure did." I said rolling my eyes with a heavy sigh watching the turian work on the rifle. Kandros sat the rifle down and turned to me. I could tell that Kandros fucked up the saying about bent my ear but eh, fuck it. The meaning is simple enough.

"You get used to it. Just focus on being a Pathfinder. I won't argue with results, but they surely will." Kandros moaned at the thought to forward progressing, at the same time seeing them bicker at every move that is made. "Anyway, Welcome to militia HQ. Excuse the...mess. This office organizes the militia work, Nexus Security and finding the Arks."

"Any word on any of the Arks, by the by." I asked while scratching the below my ear with my right pointer finger. At least this guy has his head on right. I'm not going to lie, I'm liking the turians and krogan the more I'm around them. Can't say much for the asari since I only been barely speaking to the one. Kinda avoiding her since she is a doctor...bad experiences. Not only that but I fucken hate doctors.

"Information is scattered. Some are saying they are dead, and others say alive. Nobody knows." I nodded at the information and sighed. "So, is it true you fought during the First Contact War? I heard your man, Liam explaining...your 'situation'. Including hearing the story from Ramilril." Kandros stated. I knew it was going to get out so it, so it didn't phase me.

"So, He told you eh. Ok, SAM send away to the highest ranking members for now." I admitted sitting on a crate nearby. Kandros nodded then noticed the ping of my entire history reach Kandros's omi-tool. He gave me a look as I shrugged. "Look, You have every right to know what you're deal with. Judge me how you like. I don't care.

"Fair enough. Some Turians are still sore of what happened. I however, don't care either. The past is the past. Especially, not now." Kandros let out with a happy nod. "Right now, were all stuck in this mess. If we don't work together, then we will all fail." I couldn't help but to agree further. I couldn't help but to have a small smirk on my face at the fact we agree. "About those aliens that we encountered?".

"Ah yes, We call them the 'Kett'. Relentless bastards, I warned the others that they could tear this station apart if were not prepared. But as you human's say, "in one ear and out the other". I hope Addison can figure it out sooner." Kandros said looking at the table. Hey, at least he got that one down. "Yeah, no kidding." I responded shaking my head at how everything is set up here. It's all a complete mess and I looked into the hall to see Turians, Humans, Salarians, Asari all baning together and cleaning up the entire work stations all around Ops center.

"How did you get this gig? or job." I corrected myself being a bit to causal. "I understand what you mean." Kandros politely exclaimed. "I was escorting some prospecting team on some moon. When those kett found and surrounded us. They threw us in pens like cattle and used us for experiments."

"Jesus Fuck." I said looking at Kandros worried and horrified of what these Kett do to prisoners. "Luck was on my side. I got loose, snatched a gun and freed the others. By the time, we killed the bastards and got back to the Nexus to warn them. Everyone looked at me, as if I was in charge." I couldn't help to rise my eyebrows at this information. "Too much of that going around." I admitted realizing that I might had it easy. "The Militia grew from there. Once the heat gets turned up then everyone starts rising to the top. Like yourself." Kandros finished. This caused me to give a painfully agreeing nod thinking about Alec's untimely demise.

"I'll read those reports since you're willing to show everyone and not just me. However, It's the present we should be focused on." Kandros voiced which made me nod. "I'm kind glad, your here. We might need a proper soldier to lead us." Kandros admitted.

"Either I die, or you find someone else better." I smirked thinking of the movie-. "Starship Troopers." Kandros pointed at me which threw me for a tail spin forcing me to give a weird look. "My favorite "Human" vid. A lot of turians seen that vid and were outspoken that is how Humanity should have created their military." Kandros confessed which I started laughing. "I watched that movie when I was a kid. I mean decent movie. But the book was way better." I said grinning like a idiot.

"There's a book?" Kandros sounded astonished over this discovery. "Yeah, If Alec brought some of my personal effects then I MIGHT have a copy. As of right now, don't get your hopes up." I said matter of fact while rubbing a tear from my eye from laughter. "Speaking of which, I got to speak to Tann. Maybe he knows something. Later Kandros."

Kandros nodded looking like a kid during Christmas as he turned back to the table discussing attack patterns to use on the Kett. This fucken guy watched Starship Troopers? He's fucken awesome. I thought walking back up the ramp, chuckling to myself like an idiot.

I walked into Tann's...office...didn't look like office but more of a closet space. I couldn't help but to snicker looking around the small room and seeing a part of it was closed off with boxes blocking the way. "This is the planet we landed. Habitat 7. It wasn't even close to livable." Cora said sounding annoyed as she spoke with Tann. "Michael...Nice for you to stop by." Cora sounded PISSED when she noticed me giving me nasty leers. I gave Cora a nasty look when she said my first name. I hated to be called Michael and now she was something to hold over my head. "Ah, Schmitt. We were just discussing your next move." Tann welcomed me warmly.

"I thought I wasn't "Pathfinder" material." I asked giving him a cocky attitude. "As you said it before. We don't have the luxury. Director Addison has her own opinion and I have mine, which overrules hers." Tann said slyly and quietly. I gave Tann a distrusting gaze. "I hope she doesn't find out." I said lowly.

"I oversee the entire Initiative. I'm going to give you a chance to prove yourself. To that end, the Scourge has been dealing a tremendous blow. Whatever it is, our scientist theorizes that it's NOT natural." Tann reviled while placing his hands behind his back acting proper.

"An artificial energy cloud? Who would have created that?" Cora asked looking at Tann perplexed by the news.

"We have yet to say. It wasn't here when we left the Milky Way, furthermore the Scourge managed to render the golden worlds unlivable. Then there are these aliens we ran into...The Kett. We discovered they are obsessed with the alien structures, scattered all over this cluster and are willing kill anyone who gets close to them. I suppose murder isn't only in the Milky Way." Tann made clear what I'm dealing with a lot more clearly, at the same time which explains a lot. Tann showed a bright red planet hologram by tapping his keyboard. "This planet here. "Eos." Right now, your main focus should be here trying to make it viable for our colonists. This will make it easier to make this cluster livable. We discovered up to six livable worlds, but I want you to start at Eos."

"Wait" I cut Director Tann off realizing this was a lot to process. "I though you said these planets are unlivable?"

"A real pathfinder will relish in solving that mystery. Don't you agree?" Tann shot back at me causing me to clinch my fist which Cora coughed loudly. "Right, I should go check on things." She said trying to clear the air a little and reminded me to not to lose my temper as she passed by.

"You must be the gambler type, huh. No sweat if I fail, since I'm replaceable." I said staring the big green eyes of the Salarian who was really starting to piss me off worse than Addison. I was calm but stood my ground against this guy.

"Gambling on people is my job. Some of the pay off and others..." Tann trailed off at the end which got me narrowing my eyes at him since I knew where he was going.

"Don'-." I wanted to growl but then a sharp ringing in my head that was the worst headache one could ever receive. "Michael, please see me and SAM node. Your implant needs attention, and we need to discuss confidential matters." SAM said privately.

"Are you ok?" Tann asked noticing me grunt lightly. "Yeah, Fine. Just a headache. You mentioned a ship?" I asked playing off the headache a little as a excuse for growling at the Director. There is no real reason to pick a fight with ANY of them. I mean I could point out all their short comings, instead I'll be the adult and take the criticism.

"It's in the Docking bay being prepped now. It should take a just take a day or two longer until all preparations are complete. The coordinates for Eos are in the ships computer." Tann added giving a warm friendly expression. This guy was a true bureaucrat though and though. Now, Addison and Kesh to deal with. My brain felt like it was going to melt, so mind as well save the best for last. I could hear Addison yell from across the whole Ops Center as soon as I walked out of Tann's..."office". FUCK! "To whom. And Your goddamn father." Which made me realize, now I'm going to have to bail Scott out. Fantastic. Let's get this over with.

Addison was on the top level of the bridge. She was standing yelling about this and that as I walked up the two levels of ramps to where Scott keep his cool better than I could explaining the entire situation. I made a mental note on how well Scott could handle political pressure breathing down his neck.

"So, the pathfinder finally shows up." Addison grinned her teeth at me when I showed my face. "Look, I was dealing with Kandros and Tann. I have Kesh, some scientists and SAM to meet yet. I'm in no damn mood to be lectured by someone pointing out the goddamn obvious. I understand where you're coming from, so could you please cut me some fucken slack." I was being stern with Addison who sighed shaking her head as if she didn't really want to hear it.

"Look, my face is tired. I haven't slept in almost a whole week dealing with failed colonization, so forgive me if I don't hold my breath." Addison sighed and then I took a minute to analyze what she just said. "Your face is tired?" I was mystified by her choice of words. "Shut up." She snapped realizing her mistake. "Geez, Slow down. You'll have a heart attack." I muttered under my breath, rolling my eyes. She looked as if she was in her 40s maybe 50s.

She gave me a stern look at that statement as if I said something that offended her and she was holding it in. I got her to shut up for a fucken moment for me to continue. "Panicking isn't going to help solve a damn thing. Chill the fuck out and think clearly for fuck sake." I boomed which caused the some of the technicians to turn to listen to me. Some of them were turian, human, salarian and asari. Hell, I THINK I saw a quarian or two. Addision just turned her back to me causing me to lower my head and shook it slightly. "What about that alien tech? Any idea why the Kett are fascinated with?" I couldn't help to ask, seeing that any information is good information. Both Kendros and Tann gave their opinions which is fine because I'll take anything I can get, at this fucken point. I don't know what those bony bastards want but I can't shake the feeling it's bad.

"The brains say the tech is less advanced then what we dug up on Mars, but that was plug and go. This tech... thinks different?" Addison was confused how to put in correct words. "We don't know entirely. As for the Kett, we've been avoiding them at all cost. Keeping a low profile. From logs of the Hyperion about Alec, perhaps it's better to keep it that way." She continued as she started to calm down. I could tell that any minute she could pass out from fatigue.

"I only heard Schmitt call my dad, Alec. So how close were you two?" Scott had to asked butting in. This made me wonder. No one called Alec, by his first name unless you were a close friend.

"I'm not your new mother if that was, you're thinking." The older woman huffed looking at Scott who seemed relieved by this news. "Hey, Scott. I got this. Go check on Liam. I haven't heard from him in a little." I said turning to Scott itching my nose with my thumb. Scott gave a nod as he walked past me. "And make sure, he didn't break anything!" I yelled a little too loudly causing Scott to crack a laugh. "Don't want to have that come out of my paycheck." I mumbled to myself. Addison was not amused one bit and I didn't care.

I snapped a finger to a grey colored Turian technician with red facial markings. "Hey, bud." The turian turned toward me looking completely confused as he was standing at his terminal. "Yes?". I turned to Addision. "I want you to personally make sure, Addision gets some sleep after this little chat? She looks like the walking dead." The turian turned to Addison who had to hold herself up just to stand. "Yes, Sir." I waved a hand to Addison to make sure she was awake. "I'm fine...you bloody fool." She snapped hearing my little conversation with the technician.

"Riiight." I raised a eyebrow as she looked like she was about to start nodding off. "Then tell me about these failed outposts? And oh, How the fuck did a armed rebellion start in the first place?" I started but Addison gave a hard sigh. "Hostiles, Exiles, Scourge, and spoiled worlds. We can't just expect white picket fences to grow out of the ground. As much as that would make my job a lot easier. It doesn't happen. We need a pathfinder that explores, evacuates and inspires for this to work." Addison explained making my job much clearer and feel much lighter then how Tann threw everything, including the kitchen sink. I could feel the pressure of them expecting me to do it all without fail. "As for the "armed rebellion". When we struck the scourge. A thousand, maybe two thousand of unprepared colonists woke from cryo-sleep. They realized maybe a hundrid or so weren't so lucky. One of them being the founder of the Initiative, Jien Garson." This caused bells to ring in my head. Jien Garson...Jien Garson...Where the fuck did I hear that god damn name...That is going to bug the piss out of me... "With most of the leadership dead...many people didn't take too kindly to Director Tann's leadership." Huh? So, I'm not the only one...And they jumped ship...fuck... "As you now know, most of the golden worlds are a bust and us having failed outpost. Sloane Kelly the security leader lead the mutineers to try to overtake the station...It ended in failure, due to the krogan whom claimed they had a deal with Tann. Tann dismissed them as rumors and never calmed to strike a deal with them causing them to leave as well."

I couldn't resist to hide my face in the palm of my hand at the shear stupidity of it all. SO, It was Tann who fucked up...Royally fucked up. Might as well give him a broken crown to place on his fucken head.

"You're thoughts on the Kett? We all couldn't be naive to think we wouldn't encounter possible hostile aliens." I had to ask seeing what her thoughts of the matter was. I had to hear all options. At this point, I didn't really care but had to act my part. I fucken hate people...I cursed in my mind reminding myself of Tann is his so called "Leadership". I mean...HOW THE FUCK DID HE EVEN GET THE POSITION? Let alone, allow him to lead after fucken up this bad? I mean...I can't blame the exiles at this point. If I woke up here during that time, I would have joined them.

"Mindless, refuses to talk and they just don't attack. They disinfect as if we are bacteria. Talk to Kandros knows more.
The head of our "military". Once he realizes it, we might be really deep in shit." Addison scoffed at the thought of the aliens and Kandros.

"Sounds like you don't trust Kandros?" I pointed out curious on what she has to say on him. You know, acting like I'm on her side, but to be honest I'm on his though. They may not "like" each other, however they are very similar in thinking wise. Both realized their in a fuckary of a mess, it's just getting these two locked in a room to sort each other out. I been there. Way too many times with different people. They just got to TALK to get the feeling of how each other works. I don't feel like a pathfinder. I feel like Uncle Schmitt. Hey kids, how about you two sit down and fucken communicate!

"I trust him to DEFEND us. Not possibly start a military presence during a supposed civilian Initiative." Addison scoffed again which made me question her more. There it is...I wasn't going to start a argument over points of view. I mean, The Kett being mindless, refuses to talk and wants to "disinfect" us? Sounds like a ideology to me and that isn't something we can simply not make peace with, so easily. Would love a military in my back pocket if that is the case, regardless of what she thinks.

"Ok, Addison. I see you're point. Now do me a solid...Go. Get. Rest." I said clapping my hands together with a nod. Addison huffed as the Turian from earlier walked up and waved his claw-like hand to the ramp. I watched as she quietly walked down the ramp on my right. I went up to one other human technicians, who looked and sounded russian, asking where Kesh's office and they pointed me to the right direction. I said my thanks and headed over there as quickly as I could. I have some scientists to speak to then SAM. Ugh...my life keeps getting better and better...

Kesh's had a real office, unlike everyone else. It was on the far-right side opposite from Tann's on the base floor of the bridge. "There you are! I hope the others didn't bite you're head off. There is a lot that needs doing." Kesh said warmly, greeting me as if I was a friend. "With the Hyperion hooked up and feeding the Nexus power, my team and I can't start getting real work done."

"Bah, don't worry about it." I said causally smirking. "Kandros isn't all too bad. A bit gun-ho if you ask me, which isn't a positive or negative remark. Tann is a bureaucrat, gets under my skin, and Addison...is pessimistically realistic. Strange bunch." I couldn't help to exhale my frustration with some of them and their view points.

"I couldn't have put it better myself." Kesh grinned from ear to ear. "From what I hear, I'm the first krogan you met. Is that correct to say?" Kesh asked politely and with a bit of respect in her voice.

"Ah, You read that then...Well...Shit..." I was taken back by the fact she read my history. Kesh just laughed saying. "Kandros sent me the whole report. We decided block Addison and number eight's copy of the report, until you accomplish something just so we can see the look on their faces." I started grinning like an idiot, imagining the look on their faces if I do succeed. I did catch that number eight part. Who was she referring to? Tann?

"Where are the rest of the Krogan?" I couldn't prevent myself from asking, while turning around looking around outside the door before it closed. "I'm sure you're not the only krogan that came along."

"Then you haven't spoken to Number Eight about the matter. I'm sure he has is "opinions" why they left." Kesh snarled at the thought of this "number eight".

"Ugh, You keep saying Number Eight? Am I suppose to know who that is?" I had to question since I had small clue who she was referring to.

"Tann. In short." Kesh continued. "During the mutiny a deal was stuck with my people. If they took care of the mutineers, then the Krogan get more say within the Initiative." Kesh was cold to admit at the memories of what happened months ago. That was the damn reason why he pulled out? His fucken pride?

"Before I ask about the deal. Why do you call Tann, number eight?" I couldn't resist to ask. Maybe this would shed some light on this whole damn train wreck of an operation.

"Because, he was eighth in line to take over the Initiative." Kesh sighed causing me to appropriately say. "Wowww. That explains so much. I was wondering how a worm like that got to the top of the pecking order." I had to admit out loud.

"That's why I call him "Number Eight" every now and again. To keep him...humble. Regarding the deal, the clan held up their end of the bargain, but Tann had a meltdown when he heard we wanted more say around here. It didn't help that Addison's assistant Willam Spender pretended that the deal was never made at all. A mess broke out and my people walked out. I don't blame them. We're done being used." Kesh growled at the mentioning of Spender during the explanation. Oooh, There is much more to the story... "This seems like I could grab a chair." I said pulling up any chair from the back of the office and started asking questions about the krogan people being used. She went as far back as the krogan rebellion to now. Explaining it from a more modern krogan stand point. After while of chatting, I put the chair to the side meanwhile scratching the side of my head thinking of this genophage. Even though I know what it is. "So, how are you dealing with this genophage. Could there be a cure?" I asked as politely as I could this caused Kesh to be stunned I mention such a thing.

Kesh making sure no one was around her office to hear our conversation. It was obviously a secret. Then she got close. Really close as she whispered."I appreciate thinking of curing the genophage but...there is no cure. However, our scientists try putting us gene therapy to increase our mutation against the genophage."

"You cheeky-fucker. You used the 600-year trip to your advantage." I whispered back in surprise and impressed by the krogan's sneakiness. I am rooting for these motherfuckers now. I could be mistaken but I thought I could hear her sniff me once or twice as she dwarfed me.

"Exactly. We might have increased birth rates by 4%. It's not much but still it means more krogan will live. Giving us a chance to have a future." Kesh continued to whisper in my ear while getting even closer then to me and in compete surprise, she reached around grabbing my ass. "I'll do ANYTHING to keep this a secret from the salarians and turians." She whispered BOLDLY realizing that she just told me a lot of hush, hush information. I almost jumped out of my shoes.

"I completely appreciate the offer, but I swear on Alec Ryder's grave, I can keep a secret. If happen to break that promise, then you personally kill me. Deal?" I was sweating bullets and nervous as all hell. Kind of turned on by the forwardness, not going to lie. Just...WHOA! My face was beat red.

Kesh just giggled in my ear. "Deal. But you know. For a human, you are kind a cute." as she let go of my ass, giving me a wink and went back behind her desk causing me to sigh in complete relief as I turned around and walked out. I swear to god, I also heard her say. "Nice ass too." as I walked out. Holy shit. I was microseconds from fucking a krogan. I can't believe, I'm admitting that. Holy shit, are Krogan women forward. I wasn't even expecting that at all. God damn, do I need something to take the edge off. I walked out pulling out that little something something. It was a joint of weed. I had a lighter on me and lit the fat end and took a drag. A bunch of people saw me as I started getting high, honestly at this point. I'm so fucken god damn tense. I need this. It feels like my mind is overwhelmed with all the stress and burden thrown on me.

Like a bat out of hell, I brisk-fully walked with a joint in my mouth, which I hid the joint when speaking to Kandros telling him to have the scientists to email me anything they wished since right now. I need to relax. I am emotionally drained, physically exhausted, hurting and sore all over, and that creeping feeling of depression setting in. It wasn't the fact, that it felt like no one believed in me except a handful, but I could see major doubts in their eyes. I felt more isolated and alone while everyone is looking for to me. FUCKING ME, FOR ANSWERS. Who the fuck am I? Some nerd that happened to be in the wrong place and wrong time? If you would tell a 20 year old me, what my life would become then I'd just laugh in you're face and call you insane. I'm dealing with just a lot... It was bad enough, SAM wanted to see me in SAM node for some checkup as an excuse from not socking Tann. I walked to the Tram where Cora was waiting by the door to the empty Tram waiting for passengers to board.

"Is that a joint?" Cora asked in a disgusted and confused expression as I took small drag. At this point. I was high as shit and I gave less of a fuck. My mind drift to peaceful days. When I was a kid to be honest, when life was big and free.

"Yeah, Got a problem?" I spoke defensively in a slow exhale which Cora as well gave me a strange look when she looked me in my eyes as those peaceful days vanished without a trace. I reentered the reality before me.

"Professionally, yes. But...Personally, no. They kinda grilled you, expect Kandros and Kesh. Are you...alright..." Then Cora started grimly but then realized my position and must have thought about what it would be like to be in my shoes by the softer expression formed as she walked into the Tram.

"No...not at all." I said lowly as if my depression tone creep though my tone. Cora watched me sat down in the tram seat heavy as my body could barely keep up now. Just two more things to do...then...I'm going to take a long nap...

Once the doors began to shut, I could see Cora was sitting beside me with a concerned face. "Schmitt...Maybe you should go get sleep. You look exhausted." I gave a small huff of laughter at the notation, but once the doors shut and locked. I began to gazed at the wall for a bit in silence. "Naw, I got some shit to do first. Then..." I started then sighed. "Be honest. What do you think of me as the "pathfinder"?" I questioned as I turned to her tiredly when I asked the question.

"I-I..." She remembered for a second then looked to the floor thinking of what to say. "I don't envy the position. It's clear that you're pushing you're self as far as you can go. I respect that. I might be a little jealous of you're willpower to keep going, despite loosing everything time and time again. I'd like to think of you as a diamond in the rough. I think...We all do." This caused me to chuckle as I pulled the joint to my mouth and took a deep drag. I exhaled with a small coughing fit. I offered her a puff which she tried declining. "Nope. One hit." I pressed which she hesitantly took the joint. "This seems more Scott and Liam's speed." She tried to decline.

"Ha. Those Scott is a liqueur guy and Kosta beer guy. I know the types. You need to relax. It's not so bad being human, ya know." I offered again which Cora still gave a hesitant look at the joint. "Roll up you're problems, lick you're solutions, burn the past, inhale the good shit and exhale the bullshit." I made a quote from something I seen on a poster that a friend had back before I even started smoking weed. I didn't start until I gave up drinking. Cora just blinked at me. I finally let go on pressing her and just as I went to take the final drag, Cora surprised me and snatched from my hands and took a strong, powerful drag. She inhaled then started having a coughing fit. I was chuckling for a good while. "Holyy shit, I was just about to give up too." I snickered.

When she calmed down, I could see her sink into her seat a little and just started to drift off in her own head. "I read your further into your background and I have to admit. I thought I had it rough being a biotic. They treated you like you were a lower life form." Cora let out in a stoned trance as she fumbled with her thumbs remembering her past as well. "So, what was Alec like? When he was younger?" Cora asked like a long-lost daughter seeking answers.

I gave a clicking noise with my cheeks and smiled warmly. "He was the same now as he was then. Cared in his own way, stubborn like a mule. We both loved nature, I was his traveling buddy. He would want to adventure worlds while I just soaked them in. We were two sides of the same coin, when it came to adventuring. He's fast paced meanwhile, I'm slow and quick to adjust." I commented our similarities. "When, he got me to get off the booze when...shit got bad. He practically saved my life and help me focused on work. Like the good work, soldiers do. Reminded me of my old sensei. Alec got me back on track and training again." I said when I had a year gap of putting down the "sword".

"Excuse me? Sensei? You know Martial Arts?" Cora tone suggested she didn't believe me while giving an unconvinced look, resting her chin on the palm of her hand as if this would be an amusing tale. She was baked out of her mind but I could see the tension in her body fade away as mind did.

"In a sense. I was forced to learned kendo and few other nicks and nacks. Hatsu had this, family traditionally passed down. Since, Hatsu was my buddy. He used me as a scapegoat to purse other dreams. We were like brothers, so the sensei accepted me anyway. I think he knew that I needed a ass kicking to whip my ass into shape to be the soldier he thought I could be." I was completely causal about the matter. Cora smiled gently as I recalled my history. "My "sensei", or "old man" as I called him since he nicknamed me "Gaijin". Or "Loudmouth, whenever he would get pissed off with me. But anyway, He trained me in Japan with no technology, no help, and just using the old ways like how his entire family line. There was a time, we used real swords once a week. The old man hated training me and made damn sure my training was rough. One time, he beat me half to death with a bokken because he was tired of me fucking up." I said scratching my jaw showing a small scar below my ear where he gave me a small gash. Cora was slightly in awe, now realizing the scar. "One day, I snapped and attacked him with just as ferocity as he attacked me right back. He had his large, crooked smile on his face. Little did I know. I had one as well. We brawled for a good while and we got ugly too. Later, he finally admitted he saw much of himself in me. Bit later, I got better and better. In someways, I think he awoken my warrior like spirit."

"Wow...I am now curious who would win in a sword fight between you and Sarissa Theria." Cora amused herself which I had no clue who she was. "Oh, Right." Cora started on the asari "legend" then went on giving me a quick history lesson about the asari military. I'm not going to lie, I loved every minute of it. I was a big history buff regardless of species or ethnic worlds. This was due to a video game called Dynasty Warriors which I later read the book "Romance of the three kingdoms", lucky for me the "old man" had a copy.

I slowly rose out of the seat once the Tram went back to the Hyperon. "I'll catch up with ya later, Sis." when we arrived on at the Hyperion. "Sis?" She questioned behind me. I felt lighter with that talk, as I slowed to a calm walk to SAM node. That was a good talk and got a big history lesson about the Asari and that Asari commando.

The now growing more familiar with my surroundings felt nice. Some of the new and newer faces greeting me with "Pathfinder" which I gave a nod as I walked by. I didn't know any of their names, but they knew. It's going to take a bit to adjust as a icon or someone to look up to. When Alec forced me off ol' grandpa's cough medicine. I turned to my work. After that I became more like Ryder then I realized. A guy dedicated to work. I wouldn't care if I had won the lottery, I'd still show up for work. Since without it...I would be bored as fuck. "Hey, SAM. What did you wish to discuss?" I asked walking into SAM node wondering what this could be about? The big blue orb floating in the glass containment cylinder lit up like a Christmas tree, meanwhile in the background I could head the door close.

"Hello. Michael. Welcome to SAM node." SAM said as he scanned me. "This should stop any issues with your implant. There are also certain facts you should learn before you begin your expedition." SAM said causing a low echo with his robotic voice, now noticing the bot's weird accent that I couldn't place my finger on. British maybe? Fuck if I know.

"Ok, I'll bite. What facts?" I asked being nervous of what "facts" Alec was hiding. Alec was always infamous for his secrets. Relay Incident! Cough, Cough.

"My true capabilities. Alec overrode the implant's safety protocols. It allows me unrestricted access to the Pathfinder's physiology." SAM reviled the true nature causing me to now understand Alec's superhuman abilities. "That explains a lot." I commented on the fact with a awkward, bug eyed expression. "This is only YOU. The other pathfinders don't have this capability. I can act as a force multiplier, dramatically enhancing your motor functions and neural skills when required." This made take a step back and sigh realizing how fucken crazy Alec was. What the fuck? "Alec wanted to keep this to himself." SAM finished.

"I can imagine why." I muttered rubbing my face at the news. "I'm providing an enhancement to you. We have a symbiotic relationship that benefits us both." SAM explained which I looked at the ball of blue light. "Where did Alec get this idea?" I asked since it was the first thing that popped into my head

"From YOU. The Amazing Spider-man Issue #300. The birth of the Marvel Character, Venom." SAM explained making me feel humble. Woah, this was a lot to take in. "I am a new form of AI, drawing directly from the human experience. Your implant is my window into the world."

"That's pretty fucken cool, yet absolutely terrifying." I admitted with joy then turn to horrified realization that he was inside my head this entire time to SAM whom replayed instantly. "Alec knew some would fear it and other wouldn't. It seems Alec was right, you are an odd one." I was rather offended by both responses. "I find myself in an unusual position. Though I had access to Alec's experiences, there is a gap in my understanding." SAM expressed himself thus replayed feeling like that response was a low blow. "How?" which SAM was happy to continue to explain. "He blocked portions of my memories array. However, the further you explore as a pathfinder the more blocks will be removed. I recommend checking Alec's quarters. In the meantime, your new ship awaits." SAM finished as the linkage between me and SAM connected 100%. My vision went from average to almost beyond 20/20. I should be wearing glasses since I'm near sighted, but I am usually good enough to make out the smallest of details. "Whoa. I could get use to this."

I checked out Alec's cabin which right next door. How convenient SAM would be Alec's next-door buddy. A turian with a pasty white carapace sat behind a small desk behind in the corner of the small not so narrow hallway. His mahogany wooden desk was gorgeous that reminded me of simpler times. I had to admit, unlike typical turians that were dark or light grey. His "plates" were bright on the eyes. That was until the light reviled that his plates were a very pretty sliver color. I mean some had the iconic onyx color, others with an ugly mossy green, but only one dark maroon colored turian. This guy would stand out in a crowed. His markings were black, the design reminded me of dragon like wings, completely spread out on each side of his cheeks, and were extremely detailed.

The Turian named "Kaetis". When I held a short conversation with the Turian, and boy did he sound like a young kid while informing me, that the cabin that was once Alec Ryder's was now mine. The kid was acted like he was fresh out of boot camp. Young, Prideful, head jammed up his ass, and a bit too anxious for combat for his own good. The good side of him that I gathered was mellow and respectful so overall, he was a good kid. Some of my personal effects were already taken to the ship issued by someone named Vetra...whoever the fuck that was. Sounded Salarian...Asari? Hmph, whatever. Apparently, only I had access. Perks, perks, and more perks.

There were books of Lewis and Clark's exhibition across America that was a part of Alec's collection. I already read them all back in 2155. I roamed saw a glass case full of weapons causing a ping in my head. This was a "memory trigger" SAM was talking about. SAM also informed that the pistol was the weapon, Alec used to make his first kill during the First Contact War. The large computer held Alec's Archive system, however most of them was encrypted. Decided to wait until all of them were encrypted logs and "memories" were decrypted. SAM reported I had a memory unlocked to see, that I needed to see. SAM informed me that the computer's logs were for Scott. Apparently, I would know the time to show him.

When I arrived at the tram to the dock, Cora was waiting. "Hey, BRO." She mocked, rolling her eyes at me as I smiled. She was still feeling pretty gooood. "Hey, Sis. How's the bird?" I asked as I stepped on to\

the tram. "I hear it's special." Cora responded tapping into her omi-tool getting connected with someone. I heard her clear her throat. "We have a Pathfinder en route. How's the ship?" Cora asked though the omi-tool connection. Damn can she still keep that strict tone despite being stoned.

An unfamiliar alien voice replied sounding calm? I think that was a female turian? "In final checks and looking great." She purred causing Cora to respond. "We won't be long."

The tram stopped at the docks which was cleaned up and much like the Citadel, the nexus had that artificial background with sunlight and clear skies as turians, salarians, asari, humans and barely any krogans gathered around the observation deck looking out at a landing pad. A large beautiful ship's engine rumbled as it prepared for landing on the landing pad that everyone was in awe of. "Her name is the Tempest." Cora announced as I was wolf-whistling at the ship. "She a gorgeous." I was very keen on how this ship would perform. "Then let's take a closer look." Cora said waving her hand to follow her. I followed to the landing platform where dock workers were taking crates of gear and other essentials onto the Tempest.

"Let's pick it up people! We're fourteen months late!" A turian voice spoke as if she wasn't fucking around or dealing with anyone's shit. It was the same voice that spoke to Cora over the comms. All the workers started to rush when the turian cracked the whip. I was sauntering over trying to hold my excitement in. Fucken sweet. I thought to myself in my best Eric Cartman impression.

"So, you're the one making everything happen." The voice spoke again sounding happy as SHE walked down the ramp. Whoa, don't see many female turians. "Vetra Nyx, Initiative's wrangler, provisioner, gunner and everything else in between." The female turian with the blue markings introduced herself. "Are we ready? The sooner WE get out of here, the better."

I looked at Cora when Vetra mentioned WE get out of here. "I thought we weren't talking off until a few days? and I don't remember you apart of the pathfinder team?" I pointed out in confusion. This Vetra Nyx kinda pulled back at the statement and looked the other way.

"Tann pushed launch forward, otherwise there is no way they're letting this ship off this station in less then a week." Vetra fired a bit defensively at my confusion. It felt like she thought I disapproved of pushing ahead of schedule. Truthfully, I was completely neutral on the matter. I was honestly vexed by the situation for the fact, Tann and do what he will. This isn't going to bold well if I get on his bad side.

"I don't want to waste any more time." Vetra said as if she was in a hurry to leave. "HOLD IT!" A short, middle aged, overweight, bushy bearded, bald headed, dock worker boomed as he ran up to us in a hurry. "Damn it." I could hear Vetra snap like she was caught with her hand in the cookie jar.

"What is the issue?" I had to ask the dock worker was holding onto a data pad. "Director Addison wants a full report of the Tempest's supplies, munitions, and crew." The dock manager boomed.

"I thought Director Tann overruled Addison." I said in dumbstruck causing the dock manager to shake his head replying. Vetra seen I was going to play with her little game and bugger off. This place was annoying anyway. "This ship is loaded out with outpost discovery-squarely under Director ADDISON's purview." The dock manager couldn't stress enough causing him to cross his arms in protest. His deep heavy voice reminded me a viking.

Vetra approached the bit shorter overweight man. "Seen you around. Ben, right?" Vetra asked causing the dock manager to lower his guard a little. Cora and I both looked at each other in confusion. Vetra put her hand on the dock manager's shoulder and pulled him away for a moment. "Came here with a family, didn't you? Son is still in cryo, right?" Vetra pointed out with her voice as smooth as butter. "What's your point." The dock manager questioned defensively. "I can pull some strings, get him in front of the line." This caused the dock manager to be putty in her claws, talons or whatever you wanna call her "hands". "You could do that?" He whispered. "Yeah, really." Vetra nodded. "Got you're self a deal. Ugh fuck, Addison is going to kill me." He agreed while moaning at the headache Addison is going to rain down on him. "You won't regret it." Vetra commented.

"In hindsight, I'm glad I told Addison to take a nap." I sighed in relief. Vetra just chuckled as we boarded the Tempest. Vetra started giving me the grand tour. "Holy shit." I couldn't help to express myself looking around the ship. Everything was so new and made me feel like this bird could be tough competition for the Normandy. "Everything is state-of-the-art. Labs, sensors, exploration gear...Plus the crew of course. The best in their field." Vetra said as we approached a lowering lift from the second level. It was the asari Lexi lowering down. "Ah, Glad to see you're looking well." Lexi said happily looking at me as she passed by. "Make sure you rest before you depart on another mission." I heard her say in the distance as we took the lift up while I looked down at the whole cargo room. "Spared no expense. I'd take it?" I confirmed with Vetra which she giggled? "None at all."

"The engine core is based off the Ark's ODSY drive" Vetra said pointing to a large window into engine room. I was wide eyed with all this tech. This shit is out of my league. I couldn't help to admit to myself. "Run's hell of a lot quieter." A Irish man that was my height said in a hurry to the engine room. He walked past us before I could get two words in. "That's Gil Brodie. Engineer, mechanic, all-around wrench jockey." Vetra introduced as we walked up a small flight of steps. This turian doesn't act like a typical turian. I couldn't help but to point out in my head about Vetra. I like that about her.

We walked through a set of doors into a large room with a large hologram of the Nexus floating and spinning around a large oval table. "This is the research room. There is space to upgrading equipment, gathering Intel." Vetra described the room in a nutshell.

"Router engaged. Securing connection to the Tempest." SAM announced out loud.

A red-haired Scottish woman was coming down the right-side ramp to a higher area. She passed by saying. "Welcome aboard SAM. And Schmitt, of course." She added awkwardly at the end sounding more excited about SAM then me. "All run by Suvi Anwar. Our science officer." Vetra established as she walked up the ramp but I froze looking at this Suvi Anwar. Just by hearing her last name, made everything slow down and my hearing started ringing ever so slightly as I heard the muffled talking of Vetra. She was a spitting image... I could feel the color in my face leave my body as I couldn't bare to move. "You ok?" Vetra questioned with a studying blink at me which snapped me to reality. "F-Fine...Just...It's nothing."

At the top of the steps was a large circular table to fit multiple amount of people to gather around like the knights of the round table. "You're quarters and personal effects are below. Plenty of space to get everyone together up here." We came finally to the balcony where it over looked the research room below. I let out a sigh thinking of the seriousness of this mission. "This is going to be one hell of a journey." I had to admit.

"I haven't shown you the best part, yet." Vetra cooed looking at me take it all in. "Come to the bridge when you're ready to fly. Our pilot should be ready to go." Vetra said walking away and down below to the direction of the bridge. I saw Scott and Liam hanging around the research room checking on whatever they were working on.

I walked down the ramp slowly really trying to absorb the techy atmosphere now realizing this part of the job was way over my head. I was more of a doer then a this sorta shit. "Hey Schmitt!" Scott said playing with some gadget. Looked like a auto turret. "Seems like we are forever racing, but at least we got new toys to play with." Liam said as he was checking the turret from top to bottom. "I will take what I can get." Scott owned up to. "Leaves newer opportunities for old ones too, like anything we brought back from Habitat 7. Raw matierals, Tech doesn't matter." Liam said trying to give me ideas of what I could do with it. "In short, the research room can strip it down and give you more and newer options." Scott simplified.

"At least, I have you two to explain this shit to me." I gave a heartily chuckle shaking my head at these two. What would I do without these two simple minded goons? "At least, we have something to keep us busy too. If you need help with anything just give us a holler." Scott added.

I walked to a one of the computer's to Scott and Liam's left as my back facing the cargo room. "What is this?" I let out with a sigh. "This is computer to issue strike teams. Please speak to Kandros for participation." SAM explained privately. "Ok, cool." I nodded talking to myself. The computer's that Liam and Scott were facing were the Market and research Kiosks. "Hey, Scott. Any junk we gathered down on Habitat 7 worth salvaging, see if there are any buyers for them. Might as well make some money." I said turning to the room to the left checking out the apparent bio room. "Yes, Sir." Scott happily replied. I later checked out the tech room, the crew's bunk room, kitchen, then my quarters.

Vetra walked in when I was checking out my quarters seeing a foot locker at the foot of my bed. I which on some low chair staring at it. "Where good...to go." She said noticing me staring at it for some time not even turning away. "Is everything alright?" She asked walking closer tilting her head.

I was scared to open it. The locker was dirty, banged up with some chips on the corners. It was old as I should be. It bothered me since the last time I seen it, it was clean and new. The heaviness of the past stared right back at me. "The last time I saw this footlocker...It didn't look like this." I admitted fighting the feeling of being scared but then I remembered Hatsu had a surprise for me all those years ago.

"If you need a moment..." Vetra started but. "Some company...would be nice..." I admitted since it didn't matter who was there with me, I just needed someone nearby. Vetra walked over and sat on the bed looking at me as I started to put in the combination to the lock in. Once the combination was set. I could hear the footlocker unlock and I let out a long deep breath. I opened it slowly reveling two wrapped faded gifts covered in dirt. "So, you know my story, right?" I asked turning to Vetra trying to hold back my emotions.

"Yeah..." Vetra admitted looking down at the floor fiddling with her talons. "I couldn't have been easy."

"Actually, this is the hardest part." I opened myself up a bit as I reached down for the gift from the old friend. A card was signed by him saying. "For my favorite jack ass of a brother. There is no path. The path is made by walking." I picked up the gifting knowing it was a sword. I picked the sword out of the footlocker and holding it in the palm of my hands. My hands were flat as I started kneeling to the floor, folding my legs underneath my thighs while resting my butt on my heels. Vetra just watched in compete silence, mesmerized by my approach toward this wrapped gift. I carefully unwrapped the gift revealing a scarlet red sheath, the handle matching the sheath in color with black cover wrapping around the red handle. It looked brand new still as I gripped the wakizashi and sheath pulling the blade from the sheath. The classic sound of the draw. The blade was shined in from the light outside enough to see my own refection. Someone took care of it. Alec...ya son of a bitch. I noticed while drawling the sheath. There was Japanese wording engraved onto the blade reading. "Lazy Honey Badger." The blade was made out of Titanium.

"That's a Titanium alloy blade? It's beautiful." Vetra whispered as I felt the handle of the blade. Testing its balance and smoothness. Re-sheathing the sword, I turned to Vetra who couldn't take her eyes off the blade. "That it is." I agreed smiling looking at the blade thinking I wasn't worthy of such a blade. The craftsmanship was beyond anything I seen. I could tell that this was no replica but the real deal. The old man must have made it personally himself or had it made before he died. I rose to my feet and turning softly turning to Vetra.

"So, I got to ask. Why we are sitting around?" I asked softly as I walked up to her offering a hand to her feet while holding onto the sheathed sword with my opposite hand. She took my hand with her and stood up getting up close enough I felt her breath. I cleared my though slightly realizing we were staring into each other's eyes for a moment. "Right." Vetra coughed as we went to the bridge.

I walked onto the bridge completely flabbergasted by the large view of the bridge. "Departure trajectory locked, Nexus control." A spunky salarian said then realized I walked in by turning around in his chair. "Ah, Time for introductions." He said sound chipper as he approached and shook my hand. "You must be Michael Schmitt. I'm Kallo Jath. I pleasure to be here-and meet you, of course."

"Like wise." I said warmly not realizing I had my sword still in my other hand. I wanted to get use to carrying it around since I will be carrying it around during missions. I felt more comfortable using the sword then an omi-blade. Even if it's not as durable. "I'll be piloting the Tempest at your word. Quite the unique ship for a unique pathfinder." Kallo admitted looking at the sword.

"I'll try to avoid danger for the ship's sake. Even I can admit this ship is a beauty." I smiled looking around the bridge still absorbing the atmosphere. It was hard to adjust but I'll get used to it. Time may not heal all wounds but time is ever flowing. That I can't stop.

"That's reassuring and appreciate the comment." Kallos said waving his three-digit hand to the head of the ship. "I was the test pilot for the early prototype, thus knowing her since she was a blueprint. I'm itching to see how she performs out here." He said boldly as I walked to the command computer that reminded me of Shepard...my daughter's position.

"So, I have no clue how too..." I admitted lowly looking at the buttons and lights.

"The console syncs with your implant. Just swipe and touch a destination here." Kallos pointed at the right buttons to press as I forced myself to memorize what to do. "The nav system calculates everything. Very efficient." He acknowledged the easiness of the modern tech.

"It was optimized for a pathfinder." Cora said looking like she was still preparing mentally for the long journey. "Everything is secure. If you're ready." Vetra added as everyone gathered into the bridge. "Is anyone ready for a mission this big?" Scott asked thinking about the reality of the job at hand.

"Realistically...No. However, we signed up for this when we came here. Even if it was against our will." I admitted looking out into the many buildings being constructed on the Nexus. I lightly chewed on the corner of my mouth for a minute as I heard Kallos asking to be excused. "This is it, Schmitt. The Tempest is now yours. Unless you got something to say, for the log?" Cora reported and asked politely.

I remembered that note that the old man gave me. "No need. We got work to do. Kallos. Let's start by going into orbit." I said as the ship started to lift off few seconds later and took off from the Nexus's land pad. It felt like we weren't moving at all. It just looked like one of those 3D in door rides where the chair shakes you and you follow the screen. Instead the chair doesn't rock.

We left orbit of the Nexus before we were ready and we all knew it. We will make do without the Nexus's help. We are on our own. "Say, Schmitt. What's with the sword?" Cora asked looking at it then me with a smirk. Everyone else stood there as I went quiet gazing at the stars with a calm look.

"A gift." I said bluntly then turned to Kallos. "Anyway, Kallos what do we know about the surround system?" I asked as a alert came across his terminal.

"Ah, Pathfinder. It seems you being commed by the Nexus. They are saying we weren't ready for take off." Kallos raised a single finger, sheepishly. I just remained silent not really thinking of what they wanted, but what I was hungry for. Spaghetti?, Ramen noodles? Eh, got to check out the kitchen..."Ah, Pathfinder?" Kallos said one more time snapping me out of my little thought.

"Tell them that we are staying within Nexus space and analyzing all planets within Nexus space while I rest and get ready to set out for Eos. We will swing by, get the rest of our gear then dip out. After all, It is as well my job to keep my scientist busy as well as creating a new home. Regardless, we WILL at some point have to take care of ourselves.." I coughed causally. "Ground teams. It's time for R&R for now. Let's let the scientist do there jobs. If you wish you help in anyway then that's fine with me. Just make sure you don't over do it." I announced rubbing my shoulders walking toward the door since I was still sore and hungry. A shower could be nice as well.

"Sir, I suggest we head straight to Eos and investigate." Cora said behind me as she put her hands behind her back, acting all professional. This stopped me dead in my tracks and I closed my eyes. "In fact, Kallos...Just ignore them and lets just get to work, eh? We will tell them later." I said quickly before Kallos could even accept the comm call. "Pathfinder, We don't have time too..." Cora started then I turned around giving her a stern look. "Look-"

"No, She is right. We have starving people and they need a home. We can't sit on our talons while they suffer." Vetra stepped in which I just lowered my head. Great, does EVERYONE have to give me a hard fucken TIME! DO THIS! DO THAT! Some dark part of me wants to take the ship and disappear.

"I just lost a brother! I got my ass kicked on Habitat 7! I shouldn't be here!" I snapped at the both of them. I had it. All that sad emotion was turning into rage. "All I ask is for 24 hours." I snorted out a huff of anger as I walked out of the bridge passing Lexi in the process. "What is going on?" She questioned as I ghost pasted her as if she wasn't even there.

"Schmitt!" I heard behind me but the doors shut and I continued walking past that red headed duded. "Whoa, Who pissed in you're cereal?"

I didn't even respond as I took the elevator down to the cargo room and sat on one of the large cargo containers. I wanted to be alone for a minute. FUCK! I'm no robot. I just wanted a day to recover both body and mind. I just woke up and immediately a authority figure. I get thrown back on that war horse and sent into battle before I had time to register anything. Shit, Dealing with aliens is overwhelming as it was. Salarians, Krogan, Turians, Asari and now these Kett.

It's not something anyone can easily adjust to, especially when you're not even suppose to exist in this universe. Not to mention that I have a fucken AI in my brain that is enhancing me. I just needed a day alone to sort my shit out. THEN we can deal with Eos.

"Are you alright?" Lexi said from above me which made me jump since I didn't hear even approach. I didn't even have to answer that question. As Lexi approached and sat down next to me. "I am a.."

"I never had a shrink. I never will." I protested before she continued causing her to give me a cold stare. "Look, I'm broken. I've known this for a long time. I'm sure the other's are having just as a difficult time with all of this..." I started.

"You had a hard life. Not many people could go through that level of psychiatric stress." She as I could hear the shuffle in her steps with her high heels clicking on the steel floor.

I opened my eyes to see her motherly stare and a shiver ran up my spine. This hasn't happen since I last pissed off my own mother. "You know what. I'm going to sleep for now since I feel like I took on a charging bull and lost." I stood up in defeat and slowly made my way to my bedroom, now noticing this little conversation is being heard by everyone since they were on the floor above us.

"If you need to talk..." Lexi let out gently which made me stop and nod as I look over my shoulder. She generally cares about my well being, which isn't something I'm use to. Slap a hello kitty bandaid and kick my ass out the airlock into the next mission. I a understanding of how exhausting this job going to be, so...I want to go back to my time. This is going to be so much work and I think I'm already going to dream of paperwork and kett firefights.

I yawned as I tiredly walked to my "chambers" but before I could leave the hanger. Everything went black and I felt a thud.