The Council was grateful that Shepard had saved their lives, even praised her, Kryik, and Anderson for taking a bold risk and stealing the Normandy. They offered a seat on the Council to humanity and, as a human Spectre, asked for Shepard her recommendation. Udina stepped up as if the choice were obvious. He only smiled with one side of his face. Kryik politely excused himself from the human affair.

Shepard narrowed her eyes at Udina before recommending Anderson. There relationship aside, the Captain had helped her, believed her crazy vision, gave her his ship and risked his career. Udina had locked out and grounded her ship, as well as dismissed any evidence that the Reapers were real. He could go to Earth and live in squalor for all she cared.

"We need someone with the courage to stand up for what he believes in. Someone like Captain Anderson." She looked to Anderson. She wanted him to know she hadn't forgotten what he'd done for her.

"Him?" Udina scoffed. "Captain Anderson prefers to let his fists do the talking."

"Only with you, Ambassador. Only with you." Anderson said with a straight face.

"Are you sure about this, Commander? The Captain's a soldier, not a politician." Udina argued.

"We've already got too many politicians on the Citadel. The Captain would be perfect for this job." She promptly shut him down.

"I think it's an inspired choice. The Council would welcome him with open arms, should he accept," said the asari Councillor.

"I'm honored." Anderson clasped his hands behind his back. "As humanity's representative, I'll do everything within my power to help the Council rebuild."

The turian Councillor went on to say something about a 'new era'. Shepard reminded them that the Reapers were still coming and left without waiting for them to tell her they don't exist. They were just attacked by one. If the Council still does not believe the word of two Spectres and their own eyes, may their ancestors beat them over the head with a stick, she thought ruefully.

Spectre Commander Sonya Shepard rounded the corner. She could faintly hear the Council and Anderson talking as their words echoed to babble off the walls. She nearly ran over Nihlus as he stood, leaning against the wall with his broken arm in a makeshift sling. His bright eyes seemed more cheerful than maybe they should have.

"So, Spectre," He flashed a smile, "Where to?"

Sonya crossed her arms and joined his off center stance against the wall.

"I think a little one on one therapy may help that arm, and a nap." She said with a smirk.

"Hummm..." He purred, a knowing grin and cocked brow plate colored his features. "Be gentle..." He teased.

Sonya narrowed her eyes with a grin. She pushed off the wall and walked passed him with a smirk and flirtatious glint in her eye.

Nihlus' gaze followed her over his shoulder, his own version of a smirk on his face. He pushed off the wall to follow her. He didn't know where she was leading him, but it didn't matter. He was given a second chance at life. He was needed on this plane of existence, and she was part of the reason. It was all the motivation and strength of necessity he needed.

sequel up; Strength of Heart ^_^ Thank you for Reading! xoxo