Shepard was now having a conversation with Anderson. This was the first time they actually spoke since Shepard left Earth.

"Shepard. Damned if you aren't a sight for sore eyes," said Anderson.

"Good to see you too, sir," said Shepard.

"'Sir?'" said Anderson raising an eyebrow. "I may have reinstated you, but that doesn't give you permission to go all formal on me."

"Then I'm glad you managed to keep your ass alive, Anderson."

Anderson smiled. "That's more like it. Looks like you didn't waste any time getting to work. I can only imagine what would've happened to those kids if they'd fallen into Cerberus hands."

"They're definitely eager to help."

Anderson then clinched his fist. "These students are some of the best humanity has to offer… and we're throwing them into battle. Goddamn it. I hate this war." He then looked up at Shepard. "Hackett didn't mention in his report…"

"Kahlee Sanders is safe," Shepard assured. "She's with the recruits."

Anderson relaxed a little. "Thanks, Shepard. When I heard the attack… Well, I've already lost a lot of friends."

"She asked me to tell you to stay alive," Shepard added.

Anderson chuckled. "Did she now? Well. Thanks, Shepard. That might be the first good news I've heard this week. Anderson out."

Anderson's hologram then faded and Shepard made his way to the war room to assess their strength level now. The Alliance strength had improved especially with the special ops teams performing missions across the galaxy. Plus the Prothean data files that Shepard had discovered and covered new developments in dark matter which would help the construction of the device.


Shepard then made his way towards the CIC and heard both Privates Campbell and Westmoreland.

"When this war is over, I hope we find every race that sat back while we bled and get some payback," said Campbell.

Westmoreland rolled her eyes. "Yeah, that's a great plan. Follow war with more war."

Shepard had to agree that attacking other species after they go with the Reapers would be a poor tactic. He then made his way over to Traynor and she turned over towards looking slightly relieved.

"I just got word—everyone from Grissom Academy has arrived safely," she said.

Shepard smiled. "We wouldn't have known about them if you didn't caught that distress signal. Nice work."

He could have sworn that Traynor blushed. "Thanks, Commander."


Shepard then made his way onto the bridge and Joker smiled up at him.

"So Jack's an instructor now," said Joker looking perplexed. "Guess anyone who messes with biotic kids gets turned into a small stain on the floor. And ceiling. Ooh, and that was Cerberus attacking the Academy. Man, that must have felt like Christmas for her! Anyway, nice job on getting them out of there."

"They were throwing out some impressive biotic power," said Shepard.

"Good. We could use some heavy hitters in the biotics department. It will be good for them, too. Biotics face a lot of discrimination. Maybe they see the galaxy, people will get over their issues."

Shepard was quite surprised by this. "I didn't expect you to be sensitive about that."

"Hey, I'm just tired of them stealing the spotlight from people with actual disabilities," said Joker. "I break ribs if I sneeze too hard. Being able to move crap with your mind is not a handicap."

Shepard could see the difference.

"It is good to know that Jack has thus far so by the Reaper invasion," said EDI. "I have amusing memories of her attempts to insert editions into my report for the Illusive Man. Most of them centred around inappropriate use of the word 'cockpit.'"

That sounded a lot like Jack. She had always been a bit of a handful especially with Miranda around there was one time the two of them almost went into a fight that could have destroyed the Normandy.


Shepard then went down to check on Liara so he could check the private terminal in her room.

"It was odd to see an entire Academy just for biotic children," said Liara.

Shepard looked up from the terminal. "Don't asari have biotic schools?"

"Every asari includes biotic training programs. Its basic education." It made sense considering that all asari had biotic powers. "Still, those children in the academy were very impressive. I'm sure Jack's proud."


Garrus unsurprisingly was going over the power leading from the main gun.

He sighed as he looked up at Shepard. "One of the worst part of this war is watching the kids react. If they're lucky, they grow up thinking the galaxy is basically a decent place. Some rough spots here and there, but for the most part, life makes sense. Now they find out it was all a lie. They wake up to see things in the dark that just want to destroy everyone they ever cared about. If they survive, there'll be a lot of angry orphans out there looking for answers."

Shepard nodded as he could sympathise as he himself had been an orphan. "I know what that's like. I'm just fortunate that I had my aunt to support me when I needed her. I can't say that everyone will be as lucky."

Garrus nodded. "Life just wouldn't have been complete if I didn't see Jack one more time. It's nice to see that she downgraded from 'dangerously unstable' to 'mildly insane.' You have to admit, though, she did see through Cerberus back in the day. I might've even listened… but her tattoos gave me a headache every time she walked into the room."

"I just can't believe that Rick was able to convince her to become a teacher," said Shepard shaking his head.

"Have to admit that was a bit of surprise," Garrus admitted. "There again he always had a way with people. Still we beat Cerberus again. Do you think the Illusive Man fires lieutenants over failures like this? Or just lines them up against the wall and get it over with?"

"Considering that they were beaten by a couple of children, I don't think they'll be able to keep their jobs," Shepard smiled.

"You know I always wished they'd had a Grissom Academy for turians when I was growing up," said Garrus. "Always wanted to learn how to paint. Now I mostly paint the walls with Reaper blood—not the same, but it's a living."

"Well, every artist have their own style," Shepard shrugged. "Supposedly it only makes sense to the artist."

"Well at least I know what to do with my life once I retire," said Garrus.


Alles was now doing a news report about Earth. Apparently the Reapers had just destroyed Adelaide from orbit, it was home to four million people. Also the Reapers had plans to attack a large industrial centres.

Shepard then found Javik looking around in the subdeck stairwell.

"Commander. I was exploring your ship," said Javik looking up as Shepard approached.

"Find anything interesting?" Shepard asked.

Javik's hand was touching the more of the deck. "This space has absorbed much anger. The biotic instructor from the Academy."

"Right. These were Jack's quarters," Shepard explained.

Javik straightened up and looked at Shepard. "Traces of her pain are still present. I'm told she sought revenge against Cerberus when she was here. A goal you helped fulfil! I hope you will do the same for me. At least I have better quarters."

"Trust me I'll do anything in my power to destroy the Reapers," Shepard assured.

Javik nodded. "During our fight against the Reapers, we had no time for teaching the young anything but war."


Shepard then made his way down to the shuttle bay and approached Cortez who was busy fixing the thrusters on the Kodiak.

He looked up from his work and gave Shepard an apologetic look. "Commander, I feel terrible about leaving you on Grissom Academy like that."

"I did order you to leave," Shepard reminded.

"Yeah, doesn't make me feel any better. I'm just glad it all worked out."

James was busy looking through the mods they had gathered for their guns and was busy installing them.

"That Jack is a mean S.O.B.. But kinda hot…" He then noticed Shepard raising an eyebrow. "If you like that sort of thing."

"She certainly has spirit," said Shepard folding his arms. "I've just informed Anderson that Kahlee was safe and with the students."

"So… Anderson and Sanders?" said James sly. "That's quite a couple. Huh… my dad's last name was Sanders." He then looked at Shepard. "No relation."


Shepard then decided it was time to go to the Citadel, he had received many emails. Including Miranda, Thane and Ashley, who was finally awake and reported that Udina was going to make a Spectre. Speaking of Spectre's he had also received one from another Spectre informing him that he suspected several high-ranking diplomats had been indoctrinated.

"Normandy? We are transferring your docking clearance to an Alliance official," said Citadel Control as they prepare to dock.

"Figures. Finally back in action, and the Alliance wants us tagged and collared," Joker grumbled.

"Just our way of welcoming you back, Flight Lieutenant," said the Alliance dock officer.

Joker quickly sat up straight. "Yes ma'am! Requesting docking permission."

"Docking permission granted," said the Alliance officer. "Would you like private transport arranged?"

"I'll handle it," said Shepard.

"Yes, Commander."

Shepard exited the Normandy and found Miranda waiting for him outside.

"Commander Shepard. It's been far too long," she said. "We live in interesting times."

"A little too interesting," said Shepard.

They began making their way through the dock. "I couldn't get anywhere near you when the Alliance had you locked up."

"Relieved of duty. It was complicated."

"I'm sure it was. I'm just surprised they didn't court-martial you. The Alliance isn't known for its flexibility."

"Doesn't matter now."

Miranda came to a stop and looked at Shepard. "Shepard, about Earth…"

Shepard came to a sudden stop. "Countless people lost their lives within minutes. The Reapers are everything we feared."

"They should have listened to you a long time ago," said Miranda. She could see that Shepard was still blaming himself for what happened. "I'm sorry, Shepard."

Shepard looked at her. "What about you? What brings you here?"

They continue to walk towards the rest area. "I need to talk to a few people. Like you. This Citadel is a good place to meet… for now. What's the Alliance's next move?"

"We have a plan. It's a long shot."

"Not surprising." She then stopped and looked at him. "Shepard… There's… something I wanted to mention."

Shepard could tell that it was something that was deeply troubling Miranda. "What is it?"

Miranda was unable to look at him. "I haven't heard from my sister, Oriana, for a while. I'm getting worried."

Shepard frowned. "Your sister?"

"Yes. I don't want to overreact, but… well, there's a lot going on."

The last time he saw Oriana, they had just saved her and her adopted family from being abducted by mercenaries that were hired by Miranda's father. After which Miranda revealed herself to Oriana and from what he could gather the two of them were like two peas in a pod.

"I thought we made sure she was safe," Shepard frowned.

"We did. It's probably nothing, but… I just know my father is involved."

Shepard never actually met Miranda's father, but from what she told him, he was in exactly the father of the year. He didn't even bother trying to find a proper woman and created his own daughters just to preserve his legacy.

"What happened?"

"I don't know," said Miranda now looking immensely worried. "Everything I had in place to make sure she was safe went dark."

"What do you need from me?"

Miranda smiled. "I appreciate the offer Shepard—but you have your hands full. If I need a door or two kicked down, I know just who to call. But for now, I'll be fine."

Shepard nodded. "Okay. I understand."

Miranda wiggled her fingers. "I have to figure this out."

"You will," Shepard assured. "Have you had any run-ins with the Illusive Man?"

"Just once. He said he it had been a pleasure to work with me. But he needed to contain the situation."

"'Contain the situation?' Sounds final."

"It nearly was. He doesn't take rejection while."

Shepard nodded. "No, he doesn't." He then looked at Miranda and gave a small smile. "It's been a long time. What happened to you?"

"I've been in hiding," she said. "Being on the run from just about everyone isn't as glamorous as it sounds."

Shepard knew that it was his fault that Miranda was now on the run. She did support his decision about destroying the Collector base, something the Illusive Man wanted to prevent.

"I didn't know."

"It's all right," she assured. "I knew there would be repercussions to walking away from Cerberus."

"I imagine. You're a dangerous enemy."

She gave him a small smile. "I am."

"Why do you think your father is involved in Oriana's disappearance?" Shepard asked.

"I kept careful tabs on my sister. I always knew where she was. For her to just vanish… it could only be him. After I hid her away, I still knew he'd stop at nothing to find her. She's all he has left. I have a hunch what happened, but I'll fill you in when I'm certain."

"If you're looking for a lead here, anyone associated with Cerberus will be hard to find," Shepard pointed out.

Miranda nodded. "No question. But I'm owed a few favours. Someone here will give me a tip on Oriana."

"I've got to get back to it," said Shepard apologetically.

Miranda nodded. "And I should get out of sight."

"Be careful."

She gave him a small smile before walking away. "No promises."


Shepard then made his way towards Huerta Memorial Hospital so that he could visit Ashley. Before he went to check on Ashley he encountered a doctor who was looking for modified medi-gel and he gave her the samples he found on the Cerberus lab.

He also managed to stop an argument between a hospital visitor and the receptionist. The visitor was arguing that since President Huerta was not officially dead yet that naming the hospital Memorial was tasteless. It was only Shepard pointed out that having a VI drive your body didn't make you alive.

He then encountered an asari scientist, who was trying to contact Grissom Academy for biotic amps that she could modify for asari. Considering that they needed all the help they can get Shepard gave her the schematics he found on Grissom Academy.

Shepard met up with Dr Michele. "Hello again, Commander. Here to see our patient?"

"How is Ashley doing?" Shepard asked.

"Very well. The rate of recovery is amazing. I still want to keep her under observation, but she should be fit for duty soon."

Dr Michele then guided him to Ashley's room and found that Udina was already inside talking to her.

"I'd like an answer, Lieutenant-Commander," he said. "The galaxy has need of exceptional soldiers like you—now, more than ever."

"I still need time," she said. "You'll have my answer soon, I promise."

"I look forward to it," he said. Udina then made his way to the door and looked at Shepard and nodded. "Shepard."

"Udina." Shepard nodded as Udina left. He then approached Ashley. "I got your email. Made your decision yet?"

"On becoming a Spectre?" Ashley asked Shepard pulled out a chair. "Not yet. It's an honour and all… but… I don't know. I need to think about it some more."

Shepard nodded. "It's a big decision. Smart to give it some thought." He then pulled out the book. "Here, I picked this up for you. Figured you had some down-time."

Ashley took the book and smiled. "Thanks, that's sweet. I've been climbing the walls."

"How are you doing?"

"Good, considering." She then looked at him. "The nurse said you checked in on me earlier. Still out cold, I guess."

"We didn't had time to talk. I thought maybe if you were up for it…"

"Yeah," Ashley nodded. "I wasn't sure you wanted to. You were pretty clear on Mars about where things stood."

Shepard frowned. "What do you mean?"

"You're not a part of Cerberus anymore. Case closed. Full stop."

"It's the truth."

"Okay. You cut all ties. I accept that. But… where do we stand, Shepard? Did we cut all ties?"

Shepard shook his head. "Ash, it's always been you. When we didn't see eye-to-eye, I give you as much time as I could. But that's done now. I'm not doing this without you. I need you."

Ashley blushed. "I… Shepard… damn it. You sure know how to sweep a girl of her feet."

"You're already laying down," Shepard pointed out.

Ashley rolled her eyes. "Romantic moment… destroyed."

Shepard chuckled. "Sorry."

Ashley giggled. "Thanks. I needed something… good. It's been rough."

"Okay. Get some rest. You need anything at all, let me know."

Shepard was about to leave, but Ashley grabbed her his arm. "Shepard… wait. There's one more thing. I wasn't sure if I should mention it."

Shepard sat back down. "What is it?"

"I have family back on Earth. I… I haven't heard from them. It's making me crazy. But I know you're busy, Shepard. We can talk later."

Shepard could tell that this was really bothering Ashley and right now she needed him more than ever. "I've got time to talk. So, who is back on Earth?"

"Mum plus my three sisters. The youngest, Sarah, was away on her honeymoon. Married a military man. Thomas. He got called back in and she was stuck alone. She called me. It's been pretty tough."

Shepard nodded. "I imagine."

"I was always there to protect them growing up. Even when I was off on tour, they knew they could talk to me. I told her to come to the Citadel. We can wait for news together."

"Have you heard anything about Earth?" Shepard asked.

"We have reports coming all the time on what's going on. Half are wild speculation, and half are probably too optimistic to be true."

"We have to believe that we can do something."

She then looked into his eyes. "When I thought you were dead. I lost hope. I'm telling you. But when you came back? I was raised to believe anything. I mean, maybe this problem can't be solved by some grunt shooting the bogeyman in the face, but if you think it might help, I'm game."

Shepard smiled. "That sounds more like the Ash I know." He then looked at her curiously. "I didn't hear from you while I was a guest of the Alliance."

She gave him an apologetic look. "I couldn't face you. Even when Anderson requested my presence… it was difficult."

Shepard nodded. "It's okay. We're past that. Fresh start."

"It's going to take time."

"Copy that. But not too long. The bad guys aren't taking coffee breaks."

"Okay, okay. What is this?" Ashley smiled. "Healing through guilt?"

"Seems to be working. We can't afford been at each other's throats. If we plan on getting through this, we need to trust each other."

"I was trying to keep the family stuff to myself, to be professional." She then looked at him with soulful eyes. "I don't know how you manage to keep it all together."

"I have my moments, believe me."

"You know, I'm glad to hear it."

"So what's all this Lieutenant-Commander business?" Shepard asked curiously.

Ashley sighed. "Seems like the old Williams curses losing its grip. Was sure I'd top out at gunnery-chief."

"You've worked hard. You deserve it."

"I thought so, too… until Eden Prime, Losing 212 was… well, you know."

"It was the Reapers, Ash," Shepard reminded. "You did the best you could and survive to help us."

"Just losing everyone under my command… it's tough to face. I'll never forget any of them."

"Right now, we need you to get back on your feet."

"I'll be back," Ashley promised. "And the first order of business is to show their mettle tentacles right up their…" She stopped in midsentence. "Uh, I mean: our fight with honour and courage, sir."

Shepard chuckled. "Roger that, LC." Shepard then got up. "I should get back to it. Take care of yourself."

"You too, Shepard."


Shepard then made his way out of the hospital and then found Thane standing in the visiting area. He was at the moment flexing his arms to keep himself in shape.

Thane only stopped when he saw Shepard approaching him. "Commander Shepard. When I heard Earth was under attack, I tried to call. I never got through."

Shepard smiled. "Thane. Good to see you're staying in shape."

"My disease kills slowly. With enough care and a healthy lifestyle, it can be delayed for a few years. Of course, my allotted time has come and gone. Now I exercise because it pleases me." Thane then frowned slightly. "What are you doing?"

"Visiting a friend who got hurt protecting me," said Shepard. "Ashley."

Thane nodded. "The dark haired woman in intensive care… She will be starting physical therapy with my class soon."

Shepard nodded. "That's her."

Thane then placed a hand on his shoulder. "If she means something to you, then I will help how I can. As long as she is here, consider her under my protection."

Shepard patted him on the shoulder. "I appreciate it, Thane."

"I am near the end of my life. It is a good time to be generous. Kepral's Syndrome has put most of my plans on hold."

They then sat down at a couple of chairs that were empty.

"I'm back on the Normandy on an important mission. Sure could use you," said Shepard.

"I would not be as I was before," said Thane regretfully. "I need daily medical attention. And if I know you, you will want a fight the Reapers somehow. You need the best at your side, and I am not at mine."

"You don't have to wrestle down krogan and break their necks. I'm sure we can find you lighter work," Shepard offered.

"I'm at peace with what I've done in my life, Shepard. There comes a time when one must rest from war and conflict. It is not your time, but it is mine."

"Do you know how much time you have left?"

"I've been to several doctors. My favourite gave me three months to live… nine months ago. It's freeing to find no requirements placed on me. No responsibilities, no fears. It is a good end to a life."

"Are you in a lot of pain?" Shepard asked.

"At times. The oxygen transfer proteins don't form correctly. Your human equipment would be haemoglobin. As a result, my blood is low in oxygen. No matter how much I believe in, I get tingling numbness… and that is the best of it. As for my brain, I cannot track the damage. I just experience dizziness from time to time."

"I wish you the best of you, Thane."

"And I for you." Thane must have sensed that Shepard felt helpless, because he gave him an assuring look. "Do not grieve for me. I have good doctors. My son visits regularly. Perhaps we will keep up via the extranet now that you are free." The two of them then stood up and shook hands with one another. "Until we meet again, Shepard."

"Same to you, Thane."