A/N: Reaching twenty-five chapters... many thanks to all readers, your support has been great!

Writing has become a very pleasant and relaxing passtime. I never expected this to happen when I started over a year ago :)

Theodur - I'm delighted you're my proofreader. Ms. Aurora - Bouncing ideas back and forth has been a huge inspiration.

Chapter 25, A new calling

**three months later.

Still hard to believe - she's right there - I can touch her!

Full of wonder, Hannah Shepard lovingly stared at her daughter holding a tiny asari on her arm while she laughed at herself. Silly old woman! But she did reach out and lightly touched Karli's shoulder.

"Mmm? What is it, Mom?" Karli had her hands full with a crying Leanor and responded with a questioning stare.

"Nothing dear, I'm just pleased to be here with you." Not holding back, she wrapped her arms around her daughter and gave her a hug. "Love you girl, I've missed you much!"

Shepard grinned while she tried to return the gesture with a tiny sobbing asari on her arm. "Love you too Mom - any advice here?"

Hannah grabbed her daughter's hand and brought it to the baby's mouth. "Use your pinky, nail down, so you can't scratch the roof of her mouth - like that." Leanor immediately became quiet, fervently sucking on the finger. "Gently rock her a bit... if you move your fingers down over her forehead, yes - towards her eyes, she will close them in response."

Leanor yawned and wrestled to keep her eyes open, but was clearly losing the fight.

Hannah once again studied her daughter holding the tiny asari and realized she might be looking at the future. And it might not be far off. My girl, being a mother!

Checking her chrono as she soothed the baby, Karli yawned. "Mom, did you know it's twelve thirty? Wonder why Liara didn't come up to meet us?" The two Shepards had arranged to meet Liara at the huge dining room table at twelve. Surprisingly, the asari had not come looking for them.

"She has been quite tired lately," mused Hannah thoughtfully, suspicion in her eyes. "You put Leanor in bed, and I'll quickly check on the other kids. Then we'll head downstairs."

Small built-in night lights illuminated the ancient stone corridors. The ornamental wooden floors softly creaked as the two women walked towards the staircase. The central stairs were huge, four meters across with a large metal chandelier overhead. The brown and orange colours of the elaborate chandelier reminded Karli of her bracelet and she touched the tiny treasure.

Hannah grabbed her arm and the two descended the stairs in unison. "For years you belonged to the N7's and the Alliance", Hannah continued her thoughts, "and then for years you belonged to the fight against the Reapers. Now entertain your old mother and let me believe you belong to me once more..."

"I never stopped belonging to you," whispered Karli, gently squeezing her mother's arm. "It's just that time and events got in the way."

Rounding the corner they found Liara sitting at the large dining table, her head flat on the surface as she snored softly; a bit of drool dripped from her mouth.

"I belong to you Mom," grinned Karli. "And I also belong to this slobbering alien here." She stepped behind Liara and started rubbing her back, whimsically singing, "Lady T'So - oooni, your bath is ready!"

Liara moved slowly as she blinked repeatedly.

"Are you happy Mom?" asked Shepard.

Hannah sat down and mulled over the question while she poured herself a cup of coffee. When she replied her voice was full of wonder. "I... I haven't been this happy in a long time. I see you nearly every day, I see how happy you are - and how happy you are with Liara, that gives me a lot of joy. The orphanage, my efforts here are appreciated and wonderfully fulfilling."

She sipped her drink and thoughtfully stared at the high chairs. "My soul is at peace when I take care of the little ones. It's so rewarding when I see their happy faces." A sudden thought gave her pause, "most shocking of all is that I hardly miss the Alliance..."

"I know exactly how you feel!" Karli exclaimed as she took the chair next to Hannah, sharing a look of understanding with her mother. Both of them had served in the military for nearly their entire lives and now both of them found themselves moving in a new direction.

Hannah Shepard had taken Aethyta's invitation and moved into the orphanage. Cooking became her primary task, but above all, she enjoyed being with the orphans: she played indoor and outdoor games, changed a lot of diapers, made sure all the bruises were tended to and at the end of the day, she usually served an exotic Earth dessert, ice cream being the kid's favorite.

Her daughter made an effort to help at the orphanage at least four days a week, and was surprised she could easily manage that. Most of the races of the Galaxy behaved themselves, and only once had she needed to send Garrus and the Normandy on a mission to a Volus system. When Garrus had landed the famous spaceship in the middle of a banker's garden (smashing priceless art and burning ancient trees), all trouble quickly evaporated. Shepard felt a tiny bit guilty towards the crew of the Normandy, hoping that they weren't bored out of their mind.

So with the galaxy enjoying a relatively quiet period, Karli could often be found at the orphanage. The rest of her time was spend exploring Thessia with her bondmate, attending one of Liara's archeology classes at Serrice University or simply sunbathing and swimming at the bay near their house. A few times the couple had brought a group of orphans to the bay and it had been lovely to see how the children enjoyed the beach. Aethyta had made fun of Karli when she marveled over little Dara and Leanor; even at their infant age they displayed the natural asari ability to swim.

Karli and Hannah sipped their coffee in quiet for a while until Liara stirred again.

"We dreamed together..." she mumbled blissfully, a huge smile on her face while she touched her belly.

Hannah shot up straight in her chair, spilling coffee on the table. "I knew it! Why didn't you tell me, silly girl?"

Karli smiled and tenderly took her mother's hand in hers. She then proceeded to grab Liara's hand. "As with human pregnancies, it's wise to wait a few months. Today is nearly four months and we were going to tell you in the next few days."

Breathing hard, Hannah was obviously overwhelmed. "When is the due date? Do you have a name? Oh goodness, I'm gonna be a Grandma!" Looking at her daughter, a puzzled look came over her face. "And you will be a... father?"

Squeezing her mother's hand, Shepard laughed cheerfully. "Oh no, Mom, don't be silly. The asari have a much better word for it, Munde - it means giver. Blue is Kunde, the taker." She barely finished her sentence as Hannah hugged her wildly.

"My girl... will be a parent!"

Throwing out all hesitation, Hannah then pulled Liara in a warm embrace and happily kissed her. "Congratulations, honey, I am so happy for the both of you!"

Liara's smile lit up the entire room. "Thank you, Madam, and congratulations to you as well - it's great to have you in our lives here."

Shepard senior beamed and held onto Liara for a few seconds more. "That's very kind of you and from now on call me Hannah, alright?"

"Of course Hannah. And to answer your questions, we expect the baby in about eight months. No name yet, although I have a really good idea."

After they had settled down again, Hannah happily offered. "Let's go out tomorrow, I'd love to treat the two of you!"

"Mmm, no can do, Mom. Tomorrow we're scheduled to meet Councilor Tevos." Noticing her mother's disappointed face, she quickly added. "The day after that I'm seeing Miranda Lawson about my health. How about the weekend?"

"Sounds good, dear, and I'm very curious about news on your health."

(Camera pans to the right, a couple of sparkling new factories appear)

"Eden Prime has always been an Agricultural world. But with increasing population comes increasing demand, which is why Tirium Hardwares have decided to open their latest factory on this human world, greatly increasing their output of farming equipment."

(Images from robotized production line)

"Many different products leave the factory each day. Nearly fifty percent will remain here for the local farms while the rest will be exported. It is safe to say that the factory has accelerated the restoration of the colony."

(Images of new houses)

"The workers and influx of colonists have sparked demand for housing, yet another sector benefiting here on Eden Prime. Housing destroyed by the Reapers is long gone, replaced by the buildings on your screen. And of course increased population means a higher demand for foodstuffs."

(Camera pans across large fields of corn, following up with images of pear and apple trees.)

"Eden Prime at its best. Through the dark months right after the Reaper war, the colony tried its utmost to distribute its huge food surplus as fairly as possible, often without a fee. Without it, many more would have perished in the aftermath of the war. The food produced here now feeds the seven surrounding clusters, and will cement the colony's future as an important resource."

(Camera on the reporter)

"I am standing here in the small spaceport where Commander Shepard allegedly fist met Saren Arterius. Fortunately those days are long gone, and it's safe to say that the colony has regained its footing."

"Reporting from Eden Prime, I am Khalisah Bint Sinan al-Jilani for the Council news network."

"I'm doing this for you, Blue!"

"Yes dear." Goddess she looks good...

"It's really too short."

"Yes dear." Better get used to it Brown eyes!

"Just this once, promise?"

"Of course dear." Mmm, lavender for the next one?

The skycar sped northwards, two commandoes in the front seats and the couple in the back. Karli twisted in her chair and unsuccessfully tried to pull the hem of her dress over her knees while she complained. "Couldn't you have chosen something that at least covers my knees?"

Liara smiled. "I appreciate you taking my advice. And believe me, the result is worth it." The asari sighed contently and leaned back, relishing in the sight of Shepard in a dress. She simply looked spectacular in a short white summer dress with silver accents. The bright colour created an appealing contrast with her tanned skin and long, dark brown hair.

The reassuring comment distracted Karli and she smiled at the asari. "I'll take your word for it. And if it pleases you... but this is going to take some getting used to."

Gently touching the straps on the human's shoulder, Liara mused. "I wanted you to be cool and comfortable, besides looking sexy as f - "

In a quick reflex Liara put a hand over her mouth, a dark purple blush blooming on her cheeks. Karli grinned as she beheld her embarrassed bondmate. "Geez Blue, if you like the dress that much..."

Eva turned in the passenger's seat and unabashedly eyed Shepard up and down. "I'll be off duty tonight," she commented as she winked at the human. Dropping her voice to a sultry whisper she invited, "feel free to stop by our guardhouse..."

"Okay, I get it!" Karli laughed as she playfully crossed her legs. "The dress is a success." Leaning back in her seat she tried to unsuccessfully ignore Eva's blatant stare.

Liara grinned at the maiden while she teasingly trailed her fingers over Shepard's exposed upper thighs. "Sorry Eva, but she's all mine."

"That's fine," smiled the Commando seductively. "I like sharing."

The skycar landed on top of a very tall, impressive apartment building where Heesi Tevos awaited them by the landing pad and warmly greeted the couple.

Over the last few months Karli and Liara had visited Tevos a few times. They'd grown quite fond of the matron and were pleased to see that she was noticeably more relaxed than during the war. The matron led them down a flight of stairs and within seconds they found themselves in a very spacious room, warmly decorated with colourful paintings and tapestries. Most notable were four huge floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooked the entire city of Armail. Once they were all seated, the Councilor got straight to business.

"We need to discuss Despoina. There's a reason for concern, Shepard, we've sent several scout ships and none of them have reported back. Our analysts have little data to work with. The Council and the human Alliance have gathered a fleet, which is basically ready to depart. Can I assume you want to accompany the strike force?"

Shepard glanced at Liara who cast her eyes down, not wanting to hear what was coming.

"You know my intent, Heesi. Admiral Hackett and I have had extensive communications on this very topic, I will take care of the Leviathans," Karli shifted her eyes from Tevos to Liara. "After what they unleashed upon our Galaxy, I must personally see to the situation."

Liara jumped up, her voice shrill from anger. "No! Let Garrus take care of it - let Hackett take care of it! Why do you need to be there, you have done enough already!"

Karli rose and touched the asari's shoulder, but Liara angrily shook it off. Tevos sat back in her seat and tried to become invisible. "Blue... please, they are the creators of the Reapers - this is the final chapter, and I simply must witness what happens on Despoina. It started all those years ago with Saren, and this is where it will end." She intently stared at Liara, emphasizing those last three words. "It will end."

The asari sensed the finality in Shepard's words and knew her mind was made up. "At least let me accompany you..." she stated weakly, but her tone betrayed that she already knew the answer.

"I ask that you remain here. If something happens to me, or things get rough, I need to know you and the baby are safe. Please, Liara, stay here."

The asari clenched her hands into fists and paced the room, frustration in her voice. "That's not fair! I... I wouldn't..."

"Come here Blue..." Shepard soothed as she pulled Liara closer by her shoulders. "It's me. Remember, I'm always coming back."

"Please be careful..." Liara mumbled as she exhaled and surrendered.

Shepard caressed the asari's back as the two embraced. "No force in this universe has ever kept us apart."

Tevos left the room to get a few refreshments and when she returned, she handed her guests a drink and a bowl of red fruit which Karli recognized as lilam. Shepard had her question ready. "What's the news on the Council's expansion?"

"It's going well. Both the quarians and the geth have opened up embassies and we are ready to give them a Council seat. The only thing holding us back at the moment is the volus Ambassador who is actively opposing the expansion."

"The volus..." sighed Shepard as she sipped her drink.

"Indeed," laughed Tevos. "That ambassador of theirs can talk for hours, I'm concerned if we do give them a seat that he'll try to dominate our meetings."

"Politicians..." Shepard rolled her eyes. "So glad I turned down the Councilor's position."

Karli sat back with her drink and Liara took the lead. "Heesi, there's one more thing we need to discuss. The Shadow Broker."

Surprised, Tevos frowned. "What about him?"

"During the Reaper war, the network was run by me. At this very moment there is a drell named Feron aboard the Normandy who takes care of it, but I'm not interested in taking it back. So we would like to give it to the Council."

Tevos blinked as she took it all in. "Liara... you, the Broker? Aboard the Normandy?"

Liara nodded. "Absolutely. The network helped us throughout the war but now we don't want it anymore, and trust the Council to use it for Galactic stability and peace. My only condition is that Feron must remain associated with the network, if he so desires."

A bit overwhelmed, Heesi rose to stand next to the window and thoughtfully stared out over the city. "Such a network would be... of course the Council can use it, though not directly. Perhaps a small team of our most trusted Spectres?" She opened her omni-tool and made a few notes. "I'll make sure you will be compensated for such a tremendous asset." Both Shepard and Liara started to object but the matron simply stated, "the Council will transfer an adequate sum to your account."

Quickly changing the topic, Tevos asked, "How are things at the orphanage?"

Karli laughed and rose to join the matron at the huge window. Traffic outside sped through the hot afternoon. "My mother appears to have found her new calling, and I'm usually there four or five days of the week. It simply feels good to make a difference for the victims of the war." Shepard thought of the twins and couldn't help but smile. "Oh Heesi, you should meet Dara and Leanor, they are just the cutest little girls!"

"That sounds great," offered Tevos. "I'd love to come over."

"It was very odd at first," mused Liara as she joined the others, "to see my childhood home so full of kids. But now it's hard to imagine a better use for it - giving these children a place to grow up, I think Benezia would be proud." Her voice was tinged with a bit of sadness, and Heesi noticed.

"I only met your mother a few times," remarked Tevos as she affectionately touched the younger asari's wrist. "And she always had the best intentions for Thessia. I'm sure she'd approve of the way you're using her house."

Liara nodded in agreement and the three of them watched the sprawling city outside the window as they slowly sipped their drinks. The hustle and bustle led the asari into an subdued reflection. "Life returns back to normal but we will always be faced with the evanescence of time. The wounds are deep. Working with children focuses us on the future." She took Karli's hand and whispered. "Take care of those Leviathans. Then hurry home to us."

Dictionary.

Karli Shepard has decided to learn the asari language, so there will be a sprinkling of asari words throughout the story. I will start a dictionary of words used, and keep them all in one place.

Mirla anan - welcome/hello

Mandein - honored warrior, 'the right hand of Thessia'

Arlas - main asari language

Munde - giver (father)

Kunde - taker (mother)

Irrulun - rare spiritual connection between bondmates

Semmae - sister

Kallan sa - I thank you

Lilam - Sweet red Thessian fruit