A/N: This Chapter's rating is "M" for mild adult themes and suggestion. It may be inappropriate for readers age 16 and under. By reading beyond this point, you acknowledge that I have warned you about the rating change to "M" for this chapter.
Chapter 26: Exodus
"Ash, I'm going to the Everest to meet with Hackett. I should be back in a couple of hours," shouted Shepard as he grabbed his jacket and was on headed for the door.
"Wait, I'm coming with you" shouted Ashley as she walked out of the bathroom with a towel wrapped around her.
"Why are you coming?" asked Shepard as he saw Ashley unwrap the towel and placed it on the bed. Ashley had an athletic figure. Her muscles were toned and she had very firm abs. But what Shepard liked the most about her figure was the seductive curve around her waist. One of the favorite things he likes to do is to look at her lying in bed on her side. He would then lie next to her and lead his fingers slowly from her side down to the waist and then slowly down to her hips. Shepard was now totally lost in daydream.
"John. Did you hear me?" asked Ashley. "What's the matter? Have you never seen me without my clothes on?"
"Oh, I'm sorry. I was just…staring" said Shepard.
"Well, I don't mind you looking at me like that," teased Ashley. "But just don't tune me out when I'm talking."
"Yeah. Sorry about that. Anyways, I was asking why you were coming with me," replied Shepard.
"Hackett told me to come. He said he wanted to talk to both of us," replied Ashley as she slipped on her grey Alliance issued bra and walked over to Shepard. She turned around gesturing for him to clip the bra for her.
"Did he say why?" asked Shepard as he clipped the bra. "I hope he didn't change his mind about the wedding site."
Ashley walked over to the bed and slipped on her grey underwear, "He didn't say anything about the wedding. I hope it's not that. By the way, did you talk to Wrex and Vega about being the groomsmen?"
Shepard's eyes were still fixed on Ashley as she put on her blue officer's outfit, "Yes, they both agreed to it. But I'm more concerned about Lynn. She's going to be walking next to Wrex. Is she going to be okay with it?"
Ashley now was zipping up the front of her suit, "I told Lynn that she was probably going to be paired with Wrex, and she actually liked the idea."
"Has she ever stood next to a Krogan?" laughed Shepard.
"No, but I think she wants to be the first one among her friends to do so," replied Ashley as she put on her boots. "Okay, I'm ready. Did you enjoy yourself?"
"What?" said Shepard as he blushed.
Hackett was in the glass conference room on the bridge of the Everest. Ashley and Shepard walked in and saluted him. The three of them sat down at the conference table.
"Williams, thank you for joining us today," said Hackett. "I wanted to see how your wedding planning was going."
"It's coming along, sir," replied Ashley. "I really love Warwick Castle. Thank you for letting us have the wedding there."
"Well, Shepard made a convincing case," replied Hackett. "And as long as we can provide security, I think it should be fine."
"Thank you again for agreeing to walking me down the aisle, sir," said Ashley.
"It will be my honor, Williams," replied Hackett. He turned to Shepard, "Changing the subject, are we ready for tomorrow?"
"Yes we are," replied Shepard. "The Galileo has jumped through all the gates and everything is working as expected. So technically, the gates are working and we can use it at any time. But I understand the symbolic nature of tomorrow."
"Yes, that's right," replied Hackett. "I've decided to send you several more ships. I want to give our friends a proper send off."
Hackett then pulled out a cigar, "I'm sorry, is this okay with you?"
"Of course, Admiral," replied Shepard.
Hackett lit the cigar and took a puff, "Shepard, I have one more important matter to discuss with you. Before the Reaper War started, the Alliance Navy had ten admirals. After the war, we were down to six. Then, with the deaths of Mikhailovich and Spencer, we are down to four admirals. But with Singh needing long term recovery, we are left with three active admirals." Hackett stood up and turned to look out at the bridge. He took another puff of his cigar.
Shepard was starting to feel uneasy again. He can see where this conversation maybe headed.
Shepard was about to say something, when Hackett began speaking again, "I have made the request to Alliance Military Board to promote you to full Admiral. I explained our Navy's current predicament. I know despite of all your accomplishment, they are concerned about tradition and time in service. I personally feel you've had more experience and demonstrated more leadership than the board members put together. But to bolster support for you, I provided them recommendations from me, Admiral Lindholm, Admiral Singh, and Admiral Hannah Shepard. In addition, there were testimonies from Admiral Zaal'Koris, Admiral Zorah, General Vakarian, and Primarch Victus. After reviewing all the facts and evidence, the Board unanimously approved you."
Shepard stood up, "Admiral, I don't…"
Hackett turned around to face Shepard, "Now before you say 'no,' let me finish."
Shepard slowly sat back down as Hackett continued, "We just defeated the Reapers, and for the past month, much of the galaxy was focused on the relays. But now with the relays operational, the galaxy will now transition to rebuilding their worlds. This is a crucial moment for humanity. The way we establish ourselves among the galactic races is not through terror, war, or control like Cerberus wanted. The way for us forward is through leadership, friendship, and generosity. We do this by providing a vision for the galaxy through the Council. We strengthen our friendships by honoring our alliances and helping them to rebuild. We give generously by providing infrastructure, material goods, and security through our military. On this last point, I know the Council has requested humanity to share more of the burden for the Citadel Fleet. This is a good time for us to demonstrate that we are able and willing to shoulder that responsibility.
I have discussed with the other admirals about restructuring our fleets. We have decided that it is a priority for us to rebuild Arcturus Station. We plan for the First, Third, and Fifth Fleets to be based there. As you know, the Second and Fourth Fleets were destroyed. Admiral Lindholm will continue to lead the First Fleet. Admiral Singh will lead the Third Fleet when he is back from rehabilitation. I will continue to lead the Fifth Fleet. Admiral Hannah Shepard will lead the Sixth Fleet and be based out of Terra Nova. We've also decided to move the remaining forces of the Eight Fleet and your current battle group into the Seventh Fleet. You will lead the Seventh Fleet. It will be part of the Citadel Fleet and be based there. The Citadel is on schedule to be moved back to Citadel space in about a month."
For several seconds, there was silence in the room. Then Shepard asked, "May I speak freely, sir?"
"Yes. Of course," replied Hackett as he walked back to the table and sat down.
Shepard looked at Ashley. She gave him a smile and put her hand over his hand. Shepard looked back at Hackett and spoke, "Sir, I don't mean to sound ungrateful. But, Ashley and I wanted to get married and then settle down. I want to have a family, change diapers, and watch my child's first steps. I just want a simple life."
Ashley looked at Shepard, "John, I want what you want. But I don't think our lives will ever be simple. But I promise you, I will be there every step of the way by your side. The things you talked about are what everyone wants. And this is why we've fought so hard. We fought the Reapers so that this – the diapers, the children, the family, and our liberty can be a reality for all future generations. But to quote Jefferson, 'The price of liberty is eternal vigilance.' We have been entrusted with the responsibility to be the guardians of that liberty for our generation. Throughout history, there are heroes born to their generation. Just look at Washington, Lincoln, Roosevelt, and Churchill. And like I told you in front of King Andrew, you are my hero. And I am sure the history books would agree."
Shepard was stunned for a moment, then smiled and said, "Okay, that was a good speech. It was a little too good. Did Admiral Hackett tell you about this already?"
Ashley looked at Hackett and then back at Shepard, "Maybe."
Hackett then said, "Shepard, I don't think I'm overstating it by saying humanity needs you."
Shepard looked at Ashley and then turned to Hackett, "Admiral, then I will accept this responsibility."
Hackett smiled and reached out his hand to shake Shepard's hand, "Thank you, John. The formal announcement will go out in the next day or so."
As they were finishing up the meeting, Shepard and Ashley turned to go. But then Shepard remembered something and stopped. He turned and asked Hackett, "I forgot to ask you about something."
"Yes. Go ahead," replied Hackett.
"The Normandy will be losing Wrex, Tali, and Garrus shortly. They've all requested to return to their home worlds to rebuild. They have not given us any commitment on whether they will return. We will need to recruit for our team."
"Of course," replied Hackett. "Please recruit as you see fit."
"Well, I'm asking because I have someone in mind, and he's one of yours" replied Shepard.
"Who?" asked Hackett.
"Coats."
"You sure know how to pick them, Shepard," said Hackett. "I wanted him for the N7 Program. But seeing how you're short on people right now, you may borrow him until you've recruited enough for your team. Is that a deal?"
"That's a deal" replied Shepard.
Back on the Normandy, Shepard and Ashley was headed back to the cabin.
"Ash, we should get ready to leave for Jupiter in two hours."
"Is that an order, Admiral," teased Ashley as they entered the room.
"No, just a suggestion," replied Shepard.
"EDI, please recall all crew and notify them we'll be leaving for Jupiter at 2200. Oh, and send the personnel transfer documentation to Major Coats and request for him to be aboard Normandy before we leave."
"As you wish, Captain Williams," replied EDI.
Ashley locked the doors and walked Shepard over to the bed, "two hours is perfect."
"For what?" asked Shepard.
"You got to watch me earlier, now it's my turn."
Coats stepped out of the shuttle with a couple of travel bags and his rifle. He stopped by the armory and locked up the rifle. He then headed straight for the Crew's Deck.
Miranda was going over the final check list before they leave for Jupiter. She heard a knock at the door and opened it. Standing in the doorway was Coats with two travel bags.
"Hi Will. What are you doing? Are you moving in?" chuckled Miranda.
"It seems I've been reassigned to the Normandy," said Coats.
"What? Really?" said Miranda in a surprised tone.
"You mean you didn't know about this?" asked Coats.
"I had no idea. Who signed the transfer documents?" asked Miranda.
"It was Hackett. It said temporary reassignment to Normandy for tactical support" said Coats.
"That's great!" said Miranda. "Let's find you a locker in the Crews Quarter so you can put your bags down."
"Thanks. After that, I should find Captain Williams and officially report for duty," replied Coats.
Ashley and Shepard were lying in bed exhausted but happy. They had just drifted off to sleep when there was a knock at the door.
"Ash, it's Miranda. I have Will with me," announced Miranda.
"I'm coming. Just give me a second," replied Ashley jumping out of bed. Shepard woke up as well and began putting on his shirt.
"Ash, are you okay in there?" asked Miranda.
"Yeah, just give me another second."
"Will just got transfer orders from Hackett to report to the Normandy for duty" shouted Miranda through the door.
The door finally wisped open. A disheveled Ashley stood at the door with her front suit zipper not fully up.
Miranda pointed to the zipper, "Um…you might want to zip that up higher."
Coats looked away quickly as Ashley zipped up her suit.
Miranda smiled, "Is John in here?"
"Yes Miranda, I'm here. Why don't you two come in," replied Shepard.
Miranda and Coats walked past the desk and toward the couch. Shepard was still tucking in his shirt.
"A little fitness testing going on, Captain?" teased Miranda.
"Yes, we need to make sure Shepard remains in good shape," said Ashley.
"Ahem, Captain Williams," said Coats, "I'm officially reporting for duty."
Ashley replied, "Will, I don't mind you addressing me as Captain in front of the crew. But when we're in private, please call me Ash. We usually have morning briefing at 0700 in War Room. Also, if you need any special weapon, you may purchase it through the procurement terminal in the shuttle bay. Lastly, I need my XO to be happy so she can run the ship. So don't break her heart."
"Ash!" said Miranda in an embarrassed tone.
"I'm just looking out for my XO," replied Ashley. She turned back to Coats, "Welcome aboard!"
"Thank you, Ash" replied Coats. "It is an honor to be here. I will try not to disappoint you or Miranda."
"All the gates are functioning properly, Shepard," said Liara over the Vidcom. "Try not to worry. Everything will work fine tomorrow."
"I know you're right," replied Shepard. "Thank you for all the work you've put into this."
"I'm just glad we've got relay travel again," said Liara. "Now the galaxy can focus on rebuilding."
"What are your plans after this?" asked Shepard. "I'm sure you've heard Wrex, Tali and Garrus are returning home."
"Yes, I have heard," said Liara. "After your wedding, I plan to go to Thessia to help as much as I can there. After that I will continue my…work." There was a slight pause in her sentence. But Shepard understood she meant she will be returning to her role as the Shadow Broker.
"I am sure we will be in touch," said Shepard. "Please know that I will always remember the times we've shared. My door will always be open to you."
"Thank you, Shepard" replied Liara. "That means a lot to me."
"I still can't believe you're here," said Miranda. She and Coats were sitting in the observation deck.
"It's hard for me to believe, as well," replied Coats. "John had told me he was going to talk to Hackett. I didn't think this was going to happen…you have some very good friends."
"The very best," replied Miranda as she thought about Ashley and Shepard for a moment. Then she became more serious, "Will, before we go any further, I want you to know something about me."
"Sure," replied Coats.
"I can't have children" said Miranda as she looked out the window at Jupiter. "My doctors have confirmed it. This is what has been difficult for me to tell you."
Miranda paused and looked at Coats, "Are you sure you still want this?"
Coats looked at Miranda and put his hand on top of hers, "Miranda, I want this…I want you more than anything else in this world. Thank you for telling me. I know that wasn't easy for you. But as long as we have each other, I will be happy. Besides, there are enough children in this world that needs good parents. If you'd like, we can always adopt."
Miranda looked at Coats and smiled, "Thank you. You don't know how good it is to hear you say that."
Then Coats said, "I do have one request."
"What is it?" asked Miranda.
"I am not John Shepard. I can never be John Shepard. I will not try to replace him. Please don't compare me with him."
Miranda looked at him, "There can be only one John Shepard, just as there is only one William Coats. You are both special. But the one I care for and want to be with is sitting in front of me."
Miranda gently put her right hand on Coat's face. They both slowly leaned in and kissed.
"Brynn, I want to thank you for the work you've done on the relays," said Shepard into the vidcom. "Thanks to you, by this time tomorrow our guests should be on their way home."
"I am glad I can be part of this, Shepard" replied Cole. "It was amazing working with Dr. T'soni. I've learned so much."
"What are your plans after this?" asked Ashley. Shepard had asked her to join this call to see if they can recruit Cole and Taylor.
"Well, Jacob and I have talked about getting formally married and then settle down somewhere."
"Brynn, you sound a little disappointed" said Ashley.
"I am. I mean, I'm not disappointed about getting married. That's the best part. I am just a little disappointed that after all I've learned with the Crucible, the Citadel, and then the relays, I now have to give them up. Again, don't get me wrong. In a few months, we'll be expecting a little one. That has to be good. But part of me is just not ready to give up all of this" said Cole as she looked around her lab.
She continued, "Jacob and I talked about what we want for our child. So we thought about settling down on Earth. He thought about getting a consulting job somewhere, and I was going to try to get a teaching job at a university."
"It sounds like you have some reservation about that" replied Shepard.
"Well, I guess we're just trying to think about how to provide for our child. Teaching at a university is not exactly my life's passion. I want to be out there doing research. There are so many things we can learn from the Protheans. There are still so many things we don't understand about the Crucible, the relays, or even from all the data we've gathered from Mars."
Ashley made a small gesture with her head wanting Shepard to ask Cole.
"Brynn, what if we can help you with some arrangement so that you can still do your Prothean research and still raise your child? The only catch is it may not be on Earth" said Shepard.
"You got my attention. What do you have in mind?" asked Cole.
"I was thinking you and Jacob can join the Normandy crew. The Normandy will be based out of the Citadel. We could set up a research lab for you on the Citadel. You can raise your child and continue to do your research. Jacob would come with us on missions. But the rest of the time, he could be with you on Citadel. What do you think?" asked Shepard.
"And when we have free time, John and I can provide some free babysitting," added Ashley.
Cole laughed, "That almost sold me right there. Thank you both for this. It sounds good, but I need to talk it over with Jacob. Would that be okay?"
"That's fine," said Shepard. "I look forward to hearing from you both."
The call ended. Shepard turned to Ashley, "Babysitting? Is this our new recruiting package?"
"I just think it'll be good for us…for you. Do you remember telling Hackett about wanting a family and changing diapers?" asked Ashley.
"Yes…but," said Shepard as Ashley put her arms around him.
"So we can see how you do with diapers," replied Ashley. "It can't be harder than fighting the Reapers."
Shepard couldn't sleep. The clock read 0418. He turned to face Ashley. It was dark in the room, but he can see her face. He gently brushed his hand against her hair. Ashley's eyes slowly opened.
"John, you can't sleep?"
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to wake you."
"You've been tossing and turning all night. What's the matter?" asked Ashley. "Are you worried about Exodus?"
"No. I was actually thinking about what Brynn said. You know how she said she wanted to think about what's best for the child. It just got me thinking," replied Shepard.
"What are you thinking about?" asked Ashley.
"I was thinking about diapers. I mean, I was thinking about what kind of father I'd be," said Shepard. "I don't have a lot of memory of my father. He died when I was young. I just have my mother, and the military."
"But you turned out okay," reassured Ashley. "I know you are going to be a great father."
"You think so?" asked Shepard.
"I know so. Now, let me help you to relax," replied Ashley as she reached over and kissed Shepard. The kiss was gentle at first. But then she began kissing him more passionately. She then kissed him on the side of his neck, and then down the center of his chest. Shepard closed his eyes. He slowly let go of his thoughts and began to enjoy the moment.
It was 0600, Shepard and Ashley was sitting opposite of Coats and Miranda in the mess hall.
"John, you look tired," said Miranda.
"Yeah, I didn't sleep much," said Shepard as he gave Ashley a smile.
Shepard then took a bite of his apple.
The monitor was on and it was broadcasting the news.
"This is ANN News reporting for Wednesday, November 1, 2186. We are only three hours away from the Exodus. This is the name that the Alliance Military has assigned to this operation. We are expecting numerous Alliance warships at the relay sending off the galactic fleet. Admiral Hackett is expected to be making a speech.
In other Alliance Military news today, Rear Admiral John Shepard has been promoted to the rank of Admiral. ANN has obtained a written statement released by the Alliance Military. It said the following:
'The Alliance Military Board has unanimously approved John Shepard for the rank of Admiral in the Alliance Navy. In consideration for his candidacy, we reviewed his exemplary service record, his leadership among Alliance troops as well as across the galactic fleet, and the recommendations of multiple Admirals and Generals. We have found, what many already instinctively know, that there has never been a man or a military figure like John Shepard. His unique qualities and accomplishments is what qualified him to be the youngest Admiral in the Alliance Navy. He has the full support and faith of the Alliance Military. We congratulate Admiral Shepard on his achievement and wish him success in all his future endeavors.'
In a related news release, it was announced that Admiral John Shepard will be given command of the 7th Fleet. In a demonstration of Alliance commitment to the galactic community, Earth has committed the 7th Fleet to be part of the Citadel Fleet. Its mission will be to protect the Citadel and respond to threats across the galaxy.
It's also interesting to note that this would be the first time the Alliance Navy will have a mother and son as admirals at the same time. Admiral Hannah Shepard is John Shepard's mother and is the commander of the 6th Fleet.
We will have more on John Shepard in a later segment."
The news continued on about the progress of Citadel repair and then went on to entertainment news.
"John, congratulations!" said Coats.
"Thank you," said Shepard as he took a sip of his coffee.
"John was going to turn it down," said Ashley. "Hackett called me the day before and asked that I go along to convince him."
"Really?" said Miranda.
"Yes. When Hackett saw John trying to turn down King Andrew, he thought John was going to turn him down as well. John actually did say 'no.'"
"What changed your mind?" asked Miranda.
"Ashley," replied Shepard as he took another sip of his coffee.
"In another story related to John Shepard, ANN has learned that England's King Andrew met with Admiral Shepard on Wednesday. It was reported that the King knighted Shepard as an honorary knight of England. We now can add 'Sir' to a long list of titles for John Shepard."
Shepard palmed his forehead and shook his head feeling slightly embarrassed.
"What's wrong, Shepard?" asked Coats. "Most men would die to just live a day as you."
"This is what's great about Shepard," replied Miranda. "Most men seek power and fame. The Illusive Man tried to entice him with that. But Shepard actually runs from it. He just wants to be regular soldier. He would never ask anyone to do something he himself wouldn't do. This is what his crew loves about him. This is why they're willing to march into hell with him."
"Admiral Shepard, you have a call. It's Admiral Hannah Shepard," announced EDI.
Shepard walked to the portside vidcom, "Hi Mom."
Miranda went on to tell Coats about the Collector Base mission. Tali and Garrus soon sat down and joined the conversation.
Shepard finished the call and looked over to the dining table. Tali was talking now.
"And then he sent me through the vents. I don't want to see another vent ever again."
Everyone laughed.
It was 0730. Shepard was on the vidcom with Sterling, his XO from the Kilimanjaro.
"Sterling, since you're leading the gun salute, you'll need to be sure the timing is right," said Shepard.
"Yes, sir. I've already reviewed it with the gunnery crew," replied Sterling.
"Are they chanting 'If I wasn't a gunner, I wouldn't be here'?" asked Shepard referring to the traditional naval chant used for timing the gun fire.
"Sir?" asked Sterling a little confused.
"Never mind. I suppose you're using a digital timer," said Shepard.
"That's how we've always done it, sir," replied Sterling. "I've reviewed it with the gunnery crew several times. It will be fine."
"Thank you, Sterling," replied Shepard. "I just want this to be perfect."
It was 0830. Shepard was in the cockpit standing behind Joker. Behind them were Ashley, Miranda, Coats, Garrus, Tali, Wrex and Vega. Hackett had sent more ships overnight. Now there were twenty one Alliance ships in Jupiter space. Shepard had ordered all the ships to line up on the starboard side of the Charon Relay in line formation. Each vessel's bow is pointed away from the relay. Their stern is facing the relay. He placed the frigates toward the front of the line. The cruisers were placed in the mid portion of the line. Toward the end of the line were dreadnoughts and the carrier. The Normandy was at the front, and furthest from the relay. Then came the frigates Agincourt, Trafalgar, Leipzid, Hastings, Hong Kong, and Ain Jalut. Next were the cruisers Geneva, Manila, Tokyo, Budapest, Cairo, Shanghai, Warsaw, and Jakarta. Following them was the carrier Benjamin Davis. Following it was the Everest class dreadnought Fuji. After that were the four Kilimanjaro dreadnoughts Orizaba, Logan, Aconcagua and Kilimanjaro. These four ships will be firing the twenty-one gun salute. Each ship was spaced about half kilometer from each other. The last ship, the Kilimanjaro was about fifty kilometers from the relay. The entire line of ships stretched about twenty-five kilometers in length.
Shepard asked for a final roll call of the Alliance ships. One by one, each ship reported in. As the roll call finished, Shepard saw the Destiny Ascension out of Normandy's front port side window. It stopped about five kilometers from the Normandy.
It was 0900. All radio transmissions ceased at that moment. There was silence.
After a few moments, Hackett's voice sounded over the radio. He was broadcasting from the Fuji.
"Nearly a month ago, we came together as one to fight against the Reapers. We prevailed. We won not because of a single army or a single race. We triumphed because we stood together. On behalf of Earth, I want to thank you for you coming to our aid and for the sacrifices you've made during this war. Now we must all rebuild. It is a new dawn for all of us. May this new era be marked by a spirit of cooperation born through the shared sacrifices of battle. As you leave here today, know that you leave a people who call you friend, and whose hearts are filled with gratitude. I wish you a safe journey home and Godspeed. Hackett out."
There was a brief moment of silence. Then the four Kilimanjaro dreadnoughts opened fire with their portside cannons angled at 45 degrees upward. The dreadnoughts had 78 cannons on each side. With each round of fire, 312 cannons fired simultaneously. Unlike traditional gun powder cannons, the mass accelerator cannons did not have smoke or make a "boom" sound. However, they did leave a bright trail of light that can be seen as far as 100 kilometers away. It was an awesome sight.
After the final round was fired, the Destiny Ascension began to slowly move toward the relay. On its way, it passed by the line of Alliance ships. After several minutes, it finally reached the Charon Relay. The relay activated and lit up. Then in another moment, the ship disappeared. It was followed by the rest of the Asari fleet including 8 dreadnoughts. Then came the Turian fleet that included 19 dreadnoughts. Next were the Salarian fleet with 7 dreadnoughts. They were followed by a single Volus dreadnought. After that was a small Batarian fleet consisted of cruisers and frigates. Finally, the Quarians came through with their huge migrant fleet. It took about an hour for the entire fleet to leave.
As the last Quarian ship jumped out of the Sol system, Shepard received a call from Councilor Tevos aboard Destiny Ascension, "Shepard, we've made it to Thessia."
There was a collected sigh of relief from everyone in Normandy's cockpit. Shepard replied, "Thank you for letting us know. We are glad you're home."
Shepard was in the communication room talking to Hackett.
"Shepard, you did a helluva job with the Exodus operation," said Hackett.
"Thank you, sir" replied Shepard.
"Now that our guests are gone, we need to reposition our fleets," said Hackett. I'm sending the First, Third, and Fifth Fleets to Gagarin station. They will be based out of there until Arcturus station is rebuilt. The Sixth Fleet will be based out of Terra Nova. Your Seventh Fleet will need to come back to Earth while the Citadel is here. Once the Citadel is moved back to Citadel Space, you'll be stationed out there. I am leaving you with the Kilimanjaro, Aconcagua, Fuji and Benjamin Davis as your capital ships. You'll also have the cruisers Shanghai, Budapest, Tokyo, Manila, Geneva, and Cairo. For frigates, you'll have the Ain Jalut, Hong Kong, Hastings, Agincourt, and of course, Normandy. Will this be acceptable? Do you see any need to make any changes?"
"This looks fine, sir. I don't think we'll need to make any changes" replied Shepard.
"Your wedding is in three days. You can now make that your official mission," said Hackett with a smile.
"Yes, sir" replied Shepard.
"Is there anything else I can provide for the wedding?" asked Hackett.
"Thank you. But I think we've got everything covered" said Shepard.
At that moment, Ashley walked up and saluted Hackett.
"Williams, good to see you. I was just congratulating Shepard on what a great job you all did with the Exodus operation."
"Thank you, sir."
Hackett continued, "I was just about to tell Shepard I had a problem with his time off request for ten days for your honeymoon."
Ashley was surprised, "Was ten days too much? If so, we can make it shorter."
"Oh no, that's not what I meant," said Hackett quickly. "I have a problem with you taking only ten days off. I think a month would be more reasonable, don't you?"
"That sounds good, sir" said Ashley with a gentle laugh. "Thank you, Admiral."
"That is the least I can do for you two. Enjoy your time. Shepard, you may take command of the 7th Fleet upon your return. The Citadel's repair should be complete by then. You will lead the operation to returning the Citadel back to Citadel Space."
"Thank you, sir," said Shepard. "Thank you, for everything."
A/N: This ends the "M" rating section.