Hey guys sorry it took so long for me to get this up. I like to make an annoucement and an apology. The Forerunner nanites were not orignaly my idea, I asked permission for to use that idea from Real Teagy SOT. I forgot to mention him in the last chapter, so I apologies and hope I didn't affend anyone when I didn't say anything.

December, 3 2685/2185

Normandy-SR2

Bridge

Slipspace En-route to Omega

Shepard was on the bridge after talking with Kelly Chambers, the resident psychologist and Yeoman. When Shepard got to the bridge, Joker was already excited about the new Normandy. "Can you believe it Commander? It's my baby, better than new! It fits me like a glove! And leather seats! Military may set the hardware standard, but on a first-gen frigate they could care less if the seats breathe! This is obviously civilian-sector comfort by design."

Caprica then appeared on the bridge in her Avatar form. "The reproduction is not intended to be perfect, Mr. Moreau. Seamless improvements were made."

Joker had a smile on his face when Caprica appeared. "And here's the icing on the cake. Don't get me wrong, Equinox was a great AI and companion when we took down a lot of Geth ships, but something about Caprica puts a smile on my face."

Shepard leaned back and crossed his arms. "I bet she does," said Shepard, "Glad to see you're comfortable working with Cerberus, even though they are connected with ONI."

Joker looked back at Shepard after staring at Caprica through the whole conversation. "Yeah I know about the whole ONI spook thing, at least we're here and maybe we can make a difference."

Shepard nodded his head. "How long till we reach Omega?"

Joker was about to turn his seat around and check, but stopped when Caprica gave Shepard an answer. "It will be two hours before we reach Omega. I suggest we activate the cloak when we drop out of Slipspace when we enter the Sahrabarik system. As you are very well aware of how the citizens in the Terminus systems feel about the OSA and anyone who is affiliated with them."

Shepard nodded his head. "Good idea, but one question. What can you tell me about the cloaking generator?"

Caprica began accessing the information in her systems. "The Cloaking generator is a new stealth system that completely makes the ship invisible from sensors and the naked eye. The cloak however replaces the energy shields, making us vulnerable to attack if the enemy has a way to detect us. There is also another problem: reentry in planet's atmosphere while cloaked, the Normandy will give off a heat signature that can be detected by other ships, even Citadel ones."

Shepard was impressed with Cerberus applying the Cloaking technology from spy armor to ships. "Can Cerberus apply this cloaking technology to any other ships?"

Caprica shook her head. "Unfortunately no, given the expenses involved installing a cloaking unit onto a ship, we also have to consider that it would require a lot of power, or at the very least has size limitations which cannot be easily bypassed."

Shepard appreciated Caprica giving him the technical specs, but wanted to know something else. "I want to know more about you."

Joker then joined in. "And don't leave out anything you want to express about yourself." Shepard and Caprica looked at Joker with unpleasant looks. "Just saying!"

Caprica looked at Shepard. "Do you have a specific inquiry?"

Shepard then looked at Joker and back at Caprica. "How are you getting along with Joker?"

"Mr. Moreau is distracted by my presence on the bridge. Other than that, we are working together without problems."

Joker chuckled. "Yep, we're a good team."

Shepard nodded his head. "That's all for now."

Caprica logged Shepard off and returned to monitoring the ship. Shepard left the bridge and headed to the Armory.

Normandy SR-2

Armory

Shepard walked into the Armory impressed with its new design. Shepard looked around and saw a lot of weapons on tables and walls, Shepard then walked over to where Jacob was at a table working on something. Jacob turned around and saluted, Shepard. "Commander, there hasn't been time to really settle in and take stock. I want to say that working with you is a great opportunity to do something that matters. It's a privilege to serve on the Normandy, Commander."

Shepard was glad to have Jacob on board, but wanted to tell him the risk when being on the Normandy. "You might change your tune if we end up like the original Normandy."

Jacob brushed that off. "Maybe. As long as the Illusive Man walks his talk, and you do the same, I'll do my best to make sure we succeed. That's been the condition for my service so far. I have issues with certain actions Cerberus has taken in the past."

Shepard was curious and had to ask. "What has Cerberus done to make you nervous?"

Jacob rubbed the back of his neck and looked at Shepard. "That depends on where you ask." Shepard raised an eyebrow. "In Citadel space they've been called terrorists by the Council, in OSA Space they praise Cerberus for any actions and trusts the Illusive Man."

"Why does the Citadel Council call Cerberus terrorists?" asked Shepard

Jacob was reluctant to answer. "Cerberus has done black ops and experiments in Council space and on Citadel races, which the OSA Senate denies it."

Shepard nodded his head. "I bet that caused a lot of tensions between the two."

Jacob nodded his head. "Very! The Council and OSA Senate are very reluctant to trust each other, but both still maintain diplomatic relations with each other. Cerberus will be remembered differently once we stop the Collectors."

Shepard was impressed with Jacob's honesty. "I look forward to working with you, Mr. Taylor."

Jacob was happy to hear that. "Likewise, Commander. Let me know if you need anything." Jacob Saluted, Shepard and went back to work."

Shepard left the Armory and headed to the elevator to go down a level.

Normandy SR-2

Deck: 3 Crew Quarter's

Med Bay

When the elevator stopped, Shepard walked out and headed to the med bay. Once there he had an unexpected surprise. Doctor Chakwas turned around in her chair. "Commander Shepard. I watched the Normandy crumble with you on board. It's good to see you alive."

Shepard felt the same way. "Nice to see a familiar face, Doctor."

Chakwas nodded her head. "I feel the same. I wish more of the original crew could be here. The kind of trauma you endured would've changed most people, but not you. If I didn't know you so well, I would say you were a Spartan. Welcome back, Shepard."

Shepard was happy, Chakwas was here, but had to ask. "Doctor, you've been with the UNSC for years. Why leave now?"

Chakwas explained. "After the Normandy was lost, the surviving crew was reassigned. I was stationed at the Hesduros Naval Medical Center. A very respectable position, but it wasn't on a starship."

Shepard was curious on why she would pass up a good opportunity. "Colonial military life isn't for you?"

Chakwas then retails some of her life. "I've spent most of my life on warships, never knowing what the next mission might be. I'm used to the hum of engines, the creaking of bulkheads, that subtle vertigo when the momentum dampeners kick in. Life planet-side is just too static, too boring."

Shepard understood where she was coming from. "There's a very good chance this mission will be a one way trip. Are you prepared for that?"

Chakwas had a strong look on her face of years of experience and wisdom. "I've been through the occupation on Bostra, the war with the Terminus Coalition...we survived the battle of the Citadel and the destruction of the Normandy together. I've lived a full life - no regrets. I'd like to make sure the crew gets the same opportunity."

Shepard looked around. "Do you have everything you need?"

Chakwas nodded her head. "I believe so. This medical bay is more well-equipped than the sick bay on the original Normandy. Only thing missing are my private reserves. I even had a bottle of Ontom Ice Brandy that I was saving for a special occasion."

Shepard didn't know, Chakwas had good taste. "I'll keep an eye out for a replacement bottle."

"Oh, you needn't. It's expensive and we have much larger concerns ahead." said Chakwas

Shepard left the med bay and headed to Miranda's room.

Normandy SR-2

Deck: 3 Crew's Quarters

Miranda's Room

When Shepard walked into, Miranda's room, he saw her typing away on her terminal. When he got closer, Miranda didn't stop typing and just looked at Shepard. "Commander. What can I do for you?"

Shepard wanted to talk. "You have a minute, Miranda?"

Miranda stopped typing. "No doubt you have a lot of questions. Cerberus isn't as evil as most people believe. If I can help allay any of your concerns, I'd be happy to do so. So, what would you like to know?"

Shepard wasted no time in his questions. "What kind of resources does Cerberus have?"

Miranda explained. "We're very well funded. Though I doubt anyone other than the Illusive Man knows exactly how well. But our resources aren't unlimited: reviving you and rebuilding the Normandy was a significant investment and a significant risk, we're all hoping you can do the impossible, Shepard. No pressure."

Shepard now wanted to get to know the main man. "What can you tell me about the Illusive Man?"

Miranda tried to answer as best as possible. "Not much you don't already know. Even I don't have access to most of his background. And you've seen more of him than most ever do, and it's rare for him to become directly involved in missions, but you're something special. Whatever else people might say about him, I can assure you he's got Humanity's best interests at heart. That includes you and me."

Shepard questioned what Miranda said. "How can you be sure of that, if you know so little about him?"

Miranda was happy to answer with confidents in her words. "I didn't get to where I am if I didn't know how to engage people's motives and ambitions. Even from brief encounters, he's not a saint, and he be the first to admit it. But he is committed, and so Humanity couldn't have a better advocate."

Shepard now understood a little about the Illusive Man. "Tell me about yourself, Miranda."

Miranda got up from her chair and stood behind it. "I guess that's fair, I've spent the last two years learning everything there is to know about you. Well, you should probably know that I've had extensive genetic modification. Not my decision, but I make the most of it. It's one of the reasons the Illusive Man handpicked me. I'm very good at just about anything I choose to do."

Shepard wanted to know more. "What level of genetic modifications are we talking about?"

Miranda was surprised of how accurate Shepard was asking. "It's very thorough. Physically, I'm superior in many ways short of a Spartan. I heal quickly and I'll likely live half as long as the average Human. My biotic abilities are also very advanced...even for a normal Human biotic. Add to that some of the best training and education money can buy and, well, it's pretty impressive really."

Shepard was sort of speechless. "Sounds like you were designed to be perfect."

Miranda shakes her head and placated it. "Maybe, but I'm not. I'm still human, Shepard. I make mistakes like everyone else. And when I do, the consequences are severe. Everyone expects a lot from me with my... abilities."

"You certainly don't lack for confidence." Said Shepard.

Miranda expressed it too. "It's just a fact. My reflexes, my strength, even my looks - they're all designed to give me an edge . No point in hiding from it. It's the reason I'm trusted to oversee the most dangerous, risky, and technically demanding operations Cerberus undertakes. And it's why I was assigned to you. It's my job to make sure you succeed, Shepard."

Shepard enjoyed talking to Miranda. "Thanks for the information, Miranda. I'll talk to you later."

Miranda walked back to her chair and sat in it. "Of course, Commander. Whatever you need."

Normandy SR-2

Deck: 1 CIC

Bridge

After heading down to Engineering and meeting Kenneth Donnelly and Gabriella Daniels, Shepard headed back to CIC after Caprica reported about getting close to Omega, Shepard headed straight for the bridge. "Joker, talk to me."

Joker was too busy controlling the ship to turn and face Shepard. "The minute we dropped out of Slipspace, Caprica cloaked the ship; we haven't been detected."

Shepard looked out the window and saw the space station Omega along with the Coalition fleet that guards the station. "How many ships are there?"

Caprica answered that one. "There are approximately two-hundred and fifty ships ranging from all different classes."

Shepard was kind of worried if the cloak were to fail, not even the Normandy could survive those odds. "So how are we going to get on the station without them knowing?"

Miranda was the one to answer that when she walked on the bridge. "We have spies on the station, they can help us get in and out. In fact they are expecting us." She looks at Caprica. "Open on the secure channel we gave them."

After a few seconds a female voice came on the line. "This is operative Kenya reporting."

Miranda replied back. "This operative Lawson, is everything ready for us?"

"Yes! I have located the Salarian and have a way to get you on board the station undetected. Sending coordinates."

The coordinates appeared on the Normandy's bridge and it directed them to a docking bay near the Gozu District. Shepard looked at Miranda. "We'll go in by shuttle, I assume it can cloak too?"

Miranda nodded her head. "Of course, the Illusive Man wanted everything ready for the mission.

Shepard nodded his head and the two went to the cargo bay.

Omega Nebula

Sahrabarik System

Omega Space Station

Omega Clinic

After getting on the station undetected, Kenya who was an Asari could not go with them and needed to return to her post as it would have blown her cover and just gave them directions to Mordin's clinic via Omni-tool. Shepard and his squad were able to get past by all the citizens on Omega without being seen and made it to the clinic.

Shepard then looked at his squad. "So how do we get to Mordin without the patients alerting the whole station of Humans being onboard?"

Miranda and Jacob looked at each other and couldn't come up with a plan. "I guess we go in guns blazing."

Shepard thought it over and shook his head. "No, we won't be able to gain his trust that way." Shepard then made up his mind. "Follow my lead."

Shepard then took his squad and walked into the clinic and headed to the desk where an Asari was sitting at working on her laptop. "Excuse me, I'm here to see Mordin Solus."

The Asari didn't look up and just ask. "You'll have to make an appointment first before seeing the good doctor."

"I am afraid it's a life and death situation." replied Shepard

The Asari stopped what she was doing. "I am sorry, but we cannot make any..." She then looked up and was speechless for a second until she screamed. "HUMANS!"

Everyone in the clinic looked at the squad and all ran out the door, Shepard and his squad stepped aside so as to not get trampled over. After everyone left a Turian guard pulled out his assault rifle and pointed at the Humans. "Hold it right there UNSC scum." Said the Turian with a grin on his face. "Aria will award me when I hand over three Humans from the UNSC." But before he could say anything more a Salarian in a white lab coat walked up behind him and knocked him out with his Omni-tool.

From the description in the dossier, Shepard believed this Salarian was, Mordin Solus. Shepard and squad walked up to the Salarian. "Professor Mordin Solus?" asked Shepard

The Salarian didn't respond immediately and walked up to the squad of Humans. His speech was fast as he ran through all the scenarios in his head. "Humans aboard Omega? Interesting. UNSC, OSA-affiliated? No! Only Humans. Spies? Black ops? Assassins here for Aria maybe? No, no, no Aria too helpful, keep Coalition in line! Would mean disaster for OSA."

Shepard then stopped him from saying anymore. "Relax, Mordin. I'm Commander Shepard, and I came here to find you, I'm on a critical mission, and I need your help."

Mordin was working on his Omni-tool before responding. "Mission? What mission? No, no, no! Too busy. Clinic understaffed since your arrival. Must stay here. Who sent you?"

Shepard wanted to be honest. "Ever heard of an organization called Cerberus?"

Mordin then looked at Shepard. "Crossed paths once, thought they only work with OSA member races. Why request Salarian aid?"

Shepard was happy to answer. "I'm on a mission to shut down the Collectors, and I need your help."

Mordin pulled his hand to his chin. "Collectors? Interesting. Was aware of OSA's war with them! Collectors have attacked multiple colonies under OSA control. Something never thought possible by STG standards."

Shepard then asked the important question. "Will you join us in stopping them?"

Mordin thought it over and nodded his head. "Of course, a chance to do something greater then working at a clinic on Omega is worthwhile, but have to ask. What are you going to do about them?" asked Mordin pointing behind, Shepard and his squad.

Shepard and squad looked behind them. A dozen of different TC soldiers pointed their guns at Shepard. A Batarian walked up to the squad. "Welcome to Omega...Shepard."

Shepard walked past his squad and straight at the Batarian. "You know who I am?"

"Of course! We had you tagged the moment you stepped foot on this station. You're not as subtle as you think. Aria wants to know what brings a dead famous UNSC soldier to Omega, but apparently it's for the Salarian doctor. I suggest you go to Afterlife now and present yourself."

Shepard wanted to take what this Batarian was saying and shove it up his rear, but it would be best to placate their fear. "Cut the attitude. I'm not here to cause problems for Omega. And I'll go talk to your boss when I'm ready"

"Things explode around you, Shepard. You can't blame Aria for wanting to keep an eye on you," said the Batarian, eyeing Shepard suspiciously, "And also you better get ready because nobody keeps Aria waiting. So we will escort you to the club as... protection."

Shepard was confused. "Who says I need protection? I can handle myself!"

The Batarian then rephrased what he said. "It's not for you, it's for the people you might kill for being stupid enough to try and attack you!"

Omega Space Station

Afterlife

Shepard, Miranda, Jacob, and Mordin were all guided through Omega and into the Afterlife Nightclub. When, Shepard walked into the club the first floor resembled the layout of Chora's Den on the Citadel, featuring a large circular bar with Asari dancers performing atop the center section. When they got further in the club, Shepard saw the second floor it had a large circular opening in the center, above which more Asari dancers performed on a large ring suspended from the ceiling and surrounding a large purple holographic cylinder that extended all the way to the ceiling.

After going through the club, the TC mercenaries took Shepard and his team to the private lounge where Aria Queen of the Terminus systems was at. When they walked in, Shepard walked up the stairs only to be stopped by Aria's men pointing guns at Shepard and his team. "That's close enough..." said Aria, she then nudged her head and a Batarian walked in front of Shepard.

The Batarian raised his arm and activated his Omni-tool. "Stand still."

Shepard didn't like the scanning and made it known to the Batarian. He reached out and grabbed him. "Try it, and you'll be scanning the inside of your colon."

Aria had a little laugh at what, Shepard said. "I'd almost pay to see that. But it's not an option. You want to talk, you get scanned."

Shepard then pointed out the flaw in the scanning. "If you're looking for weapons, you're not doing a very good job."

Aria explained. "You can't be too careful with famous UNSC soldier coming back from the dead. That could be anyone wearing your face."

Shepard was getting tired of this charade. "You dragged me here so you can scan me to see if I'm the real, Commander Shepard?"

The Batarian then finished his scans. "They're clean."

Aria turns around to face Shepard since there whole conversation. "That and to know why would the UNSC risk a war with the TC, by sending one of their best soldiers here, but from the looks of it, you're here for our former STG doctor."

Shepard takes one glance at Mordin and looks back at Aria. "You run Omega?"

Aria chuckles at that silly question and turned around to lift her arms up and wide. "I AM Omega, and leader and founding member of the Terminus Coalition. And everyone needs something. And they all come to me. But it doesn't matter. Omega has only one titled ruler. And only one rule." Aria sits on her fine expensive sofa and relaxes. "Don't fuck with Aria." she grinned at those words.

Shepard liked the rule. "I like it. Easy to remember."

Aria then commented on how badly it would be if Shepard forgot. "If you forget, someone will remind you."

The Batarian that scanned Shepard earlier then joined in. "Then I toss your sorry ass out the nearest airlock."

'Yeah I'd like to see that,' thought Shepard. Aria then motioned over to the seat next to her. Shepard obliged and took it. "So, tell me why do you need Mordin?"

Shepard didn't answer her question and just asked his own. "Why do you care?"

Aria then made it clear who is the boss around here. "My station, my rules. So I ask again why do you need him?"

Shepard relaxed on the sofa. "I have a mission and I need his help."

Aria grinned. "I assume this mission has to do with your president's war with the Collectors?"

Shepard decided not to answer her truthfully. "It might and might not."

Aria enjoyed this game she was having. "You don't have to tell me, but I should tell you, many of my seconds are begging me to join in this war and attack the OSA."

Shepard didn't like the sound of that. "Well it's been two years and you haven't...yet I assume."

Aria chuckled. "As a matter of fact I intend not to, no matter what they say or complain, I am the leader of the coalition and I made it known when I shot one of my seconds during a meet and greet for questioning my decision to attack. You can thank the fact that I like your president a lot; the woman is probably the toughest bitch in the OSA, and there's nothing I respect more than a tough bitch in power who actually knows how to use it right."

Aria meant business and was glad, she was not that hostile to him like those underneath her. Perhaps there was a grain of salt to that rumor of a friendly rivalry between the Pirate Queen of Omega and his president. "So if you will let me take Mordin, I'll be on my way."

Aria shook her head. "I can't let you walk out of here without compensating me for the loss of a fine doctor on Omega."

Shepard knew this was going to happen and just went with it. "What do you want?"

Aria snapped her finger and a Turian brought in a data pad, Aria handed it to, Shepard. "There are few things on the Citadel I need, but unfortunately C-sec has beefed up their security since the Geth attack. I need those items as compensation to me."

Shepard took the data pad out of, Aria's hand and looked over it. It was doable. "I'll get what you want, as long as I get to take Mordin with me."

Aria nodded her head. Shepard and team left and headed back to where there shuttle was. When they got there, they saw a body bag along with a data pad on it. Shepard opened the bag and was not surprised to see Kenya. On the data pad was a message 'Better luck next time'.

Normandy SR-2

Conference Room

In the conference room, Shepard and Jacob was talking to Mordin Solus about the mission to stop the Collectors. Shepard was trying his best to stay focused, but seeing the body of Kenya was troubling. After all it was his fault that allowed Aria to find out about her.

While Shepard was deep in thought, Jacob was welcoming Mordin. "Welcome to the Normandy, Professor. It's an honor to have you on aboard."

Mordin expressed his gratitude. "Yes. Very exciting. Cerberus working with Citadel races. Unexpected. OSA Senate branching out, maybe? Or Illusive Man? Not so Human- centric?"

Shepard snapped out of his personal thought and responded to Mordin. "You're Very well informed."

"Salarian Government well-connected. Espionage experts. Had top level clearance once. Retired now. Still hear things. Informed of name only. No knowledge of man behind it. Anti-Citadel races reputation listed as problematic in Citadel space." said Mordin

Shepard was impressed with STG work on finding out things. "Salarians specialize in secret agendas, I'd expect you to understand Cerberus looking out for the OSA interests."

Jacob then intervenes to get back on track. "The Collectors are attacking OSA Colonies out on the borders between the Terminus Systems and OSA Space."

"Not simple attacks. Wouldn't need me for simple. But have to ask why need me at all. STG reports that OSA technologically more advanced than any other race in the galaxy. Possess untold number of ships varying in different class and size. Has untold number of soldier ready to die for cause." explained Mordin

Shepard stepped in to explain. "The OSA is too busy preparing for war with the Reapers and cannot focus on the Collectors at this time. That's why they put Cerberus in charge of stopping the Collectors."

Mordin stopped and looked at Shepard. "Reapers mentioned multiple times during your hunt for Saren two years ago. Believed to be advanced Sentient starships, that reside in dark space. Responsible for the extinction of the Protheans and the original creators of the Mass Relays and Citadel."

Shepard nodded his head. "Yes. We also believe the Collectors are working with the Reapers and we need to stop them."

Jacob then explained the rest. "The Collectors attacked OSA colonies using advanced technologies to disable their communications and use what we call Seeker Swarms designed to track and paralyze colonists for the Collectors to abduct them; we need a counter-measure to protect ourselves from the swarms."

Mordin began pacing back and forth. "Hmm! Obviously Swarms are dangerous. Need to be neutralized. But need samples information on Swarms to begin. Surprised Cerberus didn't create one yet."

Jacob explained. "Cerberus was in the process of creating a counter measure, but the war has distracted us, forcing us to secretly deploy black op stings on known Collector bases."

Mordin was not surprised aware of Cerberus attacks on Collectors before. "Will need lab in order to analyze samples."

In that moment Caprica appeared via Hologram next to Mordin as a full size Human female woman in her red dress. "There is a fully-equipped lab on the combat deck, Professor Solus. If you find anything lacking please place a requisition order."

Like the Salarian scientist he was, Mordin began scanning, Caprica with his Omni-tool. "Impressive AI, but not unusual. Very aware of extreme use of Artificial Intelligence in OSA and UNSC. Expected Cerberus to use one too. Impressed however on Hologram technology, very life like, almost convincing to be Human."

Caprica took no offense and turned to Shepard. "Should I take Professor Solus to the lab?"

Shepard nodded his head.

Caprica looked at, Mordin. "Please follow me, Professor." Caprica walked out of the conference room along with, Mordin who continued to scan her.

Jacob saluted the Commander and went back to his post. Shepard walked out as well and headed back to CIC.

Normandy SR-2

CIC

When Shepard got to the CIC, Yeoman Chambers reported that he had unread messages at his terminal. Shepard check his terminal and read the message. He walked up to the galaxy map. "Joker plot a course to Asgard Station.

Joker confirmed the request and jumped the Normandy in Slipspace.

Normandy SR-2

Research Lab

The long trip to Asgard station was going to take awhile. Shepard decided to check in on their newest Salarian resident. When he walked into the lab Mordin was already working and seemed very excited about it.

Shepard walked up to Mordin. "Shepard! How can I help?"

Shepard looked around. "I see you've settled in. Is there anything you need?"

Mordin shook his head. "Not right now, Caprica excellent on explaining on how to request anything if needed."

"Do you have a minute to talk?" asked Shepard

Mordin stopped what he was doing and looked at Shepard. "Of course. Job on Omega done with. Plenty of time to analyze Collector intelligence. Impressive Laboratory setup. Very exciting to be working with OSA technology. Not much chance as OSA does not share their more advanced technology with Citadel races. Once in a lifetime chance. Very happy to be here. But curious as too much freedom. Not concerned I might copy some of this technology and pass it on to Salarian government?"

Shepard crossed his arms and leaned back. "Should I be worried? No! Cerberus wouldn't have brought in a Salarian if they didn't think they can secure OSA tech from being copied and passed on. But just to be clear, there is always someone watching you, Mordin."

Mordin understood what Shepard meant. "Referring to AI, I assume. Very useful can understand how OSA and UNSC more successful at protecting their secrets. But not to worry, will not stab you in the back, Shepard."

Shepard like the sound of that and relaxed a little more and changed subjects. "You said you were in the Special Tasks Group. What kind of research were you doing?"

"Not simply research. Several recon missions. Covert, high risk. Served under young Captain named Kirrahe. Studied Krogan genophage. Took water, tissue samples from Krogan colonies." Explained Mordin

Shepard was surprised when he mentioned Kirrahe. "I worked with an STG Captain named Kirrahe. His team helped me destroy Saren's cloning facility on Virmire."

Mordin was not surprised. "Heard he was a part of that. Very dedicated Salarian. Bit of a cloaca, though. Loved his speeches. Hold the line! Personally Prefer to get job done and go home. Probably military bravado. Jargon, chest pounding. No offense."

Shepard then changed subject. "Why was the Salarian STG studying the genophage?"

Mordin was reluctant to answer. "Krogan Rebellions bloody, dangerous. Nearly as bad as Rachni attacks. All species evolve, adapt, mutate. If genophage weakens, need to be prepared."

Shepard was curious. "What was the STG preparing to do?"

Mordin went back to work. "No longer matters thanks to OSA interference. Must get back to work. Nice talking to you, Shepard."

Shepard was confused by what, Mordin said, but decided not push any further.

Exodus Cluster

Asgard System

Asgard Station

When the Normandy dropped out of Slipspace, they were immediately targeted by the stations defenses and fleet. Joker and Caprica gave the necessary codes that allowed the Normandy to dock at the station.

Shepard along with Miranda and Jacob got off of the Normandy and headed for the OPF Station. Once there, Shepard had to pass through a machine, which set off an alarm that got the OPF personal to point their guns at, Shepard. Shepard was then dragged to the man in charge of the OPF on Asgard Station.

The man was sitting in a chair typing up daily reports when, Shepard walked in. The man had blonde hair and was wearing standard OPF uniforms. "Commander Shepard, I see the problem already. My console says your dead."

Shepard asked a question of his own. "You're not worried I'm some imposter claiming to be me."

Bailey replied back. "We have the best screening equipment in the galaxy. Those scanners can sample DNA from skin flakes. Hell if you have unregistered gene mods, they can even figure those out."

"I was told you could help me with that." asked Shepard

Bailey then explained the process. "Usually you have to go through the station security Administration to reactivate your IDs. Then to Customs and Immigration to regain access to the station itself. And probably a stop by the Treasury which is on Terra Nova in the government building. "Spending a year dead" is a popular tax dodge. But I can see you're a busy man. So how about I just press this button right here, and we call it done?"

Shepard thought about for a second. "Don't change it. Anonymity is useful on my current mission."

Bailey nodded his head. "Sure. You're a goddamn hero. It's not like we have to worry about you smuggling anything important off this station or something." Bailey then worked on his terminal. "I just put a block in the system. Officially, you still don't exist. And you won't get hassled by the security checkpoints." After that was over Bailey got a message on his terminal. "Admiral Anderson would like to see you in his office. Do you know how to get there from here?"

Shepard was surprised to hear about Anderson becoming an Admiral. "I may have been dead two years, but I know this station like the back of my hand." Shepard then left along with his squad and headed for Andersons office.

Asgard Station

Anderson's Office

Shepard walked into Anderson's Office and was greeted immediately by him. "Shepard, welcome back to the ranks of the living! I wasn't sure you got my message."

Shepard and Anderson shook hands. "It's been a long time... Admiral." Said Shepard with a grin on his face.

Anderson blushed a little. "So you've heard about my little promotion."

Shepard nodded his head. "I wouldn't call it little, Anderson. It's an honor, but what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be out there commanding a fleet?"

Anderson sighed, the look on his face said it all. "Comes with the promotion-a desk job, but enough about me. The reason I called you hear was because I needed to talk to you."

Shepard was surprised, he thought Anderson just wanted a meet and greet and not a serious conversation. "What about?"

Anderson walked over to his window and stared out into the coldness of space. "It's about your mission and working with Cerberus." Shepard was listening intently. "Don't underestimate the Collectors, Shepard, especially when they're working with the Reapers. Also be careful around Cerberus, they may have been given charge with stopping the Collectors, but they're just another offshoot of ONI."

Shepard nodded his head. "Let me worry about the Collectors, I'll make them pay for what they have done. As for Cerberus, I'll keep a close eye on them."

Anderson appreciated, Shepard listening to him and turned around away from the window. "Is there anything I could help you with? Now that I'm an Admiral, I have some pull around here."

Shepard shook his head. "Right now, nothing. But I'll keep that in mind if I come across something I need help with." Shepard looked around the room and wanted to know what's been going on in the last two years. "If you don't mind me asking what's been happing in the last two years?"

Anderson walked over to his desk and sat down, Shepard followed and sat down on the opposite side. "I'm guessing Cerberus hasn't brought you up to speed on the state of the galaxy?" Asked Anderson.

Shepard nodded his head. "The Illusive Man wanted me out in the galaxy getting ready for the Collectors, so there wasn't time to get briefed on things that happened after my death."

Anderson turned on his terminal and a holo screen brought up information. "Where do I begin?" said Anderson the amount of paper work he was looking over in the last two years in front of him. "Let's start with after the destruction of the Normandy. When you died, the Collectors began their campaign on attacking our outposts in the Terminus systems; we were completely caught with our pants down."

Shepard nodded his head. "You couldn't have foreseen the Collectors as a threat, they were always a fringe threat to us and we had no direct contact with them for years."

Anderson understood what, Shepard was saying, but felt angry at the Defense Committee for not putting up proper defenses. "You may be right, but there could have been better defenses." Anderson stops for a moment and looks back at, Shepard. "There's no point in crying over spilled milk. Moving on, the penal colony Tartarus was attacked and destroyed, by a joint Batarian and Collector attack."

Shepard was really surprised by that. "How? I thought Tartarus was in a secret location."

Anderson nodded his head. "It was, we believe the Shadow Broker learned of the location and passed it along to the Batarians. With help from the Collectors, they were successful in freeing the prisoners and destroying the station."

Shepard hated Batarians before, but now hearing this he was furious. "Did you at least retaliate when you found out?"

Anderson shook his head, Shepard was about to complain, but was interrupted. "The Senate and the Committee believed that attacking the Batarians would be a bad idea, especially since they are a part of the TC. This is especially the case since Aria would have no choice but to declare war with us. And the Senate can't afford a war on two fronts when we have a much bigger threat over the Horizon."

Shepard leaned back in his chair, still not happy about it. "I'm just surprised President Hwang is letting it go."

Anderson had an expressed look of guilt on his face. "The President doesn't know. I'd hate to admit it, but because of her strong will and attitude, she would have most likely taken a fleet to attack the Batarian homeworld and made sure that not a single Batarian survived to tell the tale."

Shepard whistled in surprised. "That took balls!" said Shepard with a look of fear on his face. "Who's covering it up?"

Anderson leaned back in his chair. "Lord Hood."

Shepard did not envy Hood right now. If the president ever found out about this, then heads would be rolling…and she would personally be the one holding the axe when that happens! "Anything else, I should know?"

On the look of Anderson there was more. "Be careful when you take your ship into Citadel Space, as they see Cerberus as Terrorists. So, if you ever go to the Citadel be prepared to get some hassle from the Council."

Shepard nodded his head. "I understand and appreciate it. But I have to ask, what's the state of the Geth. Last I heard, we were driving them out of the Traverse. And What about Ashley Williams?"

Anderson began explaining. "We have heard little to nothing from the Geth. And as for Gunnery Chief Williams, she is working closely with Colonel Johnson in defending OSA colonies from Collector attacks."

Shepard wasn't surprised, Ash wanted to do more. "How's it going against the Collectors?"

"We have had major success against the Collectors, but they're continuing to be a big annoyance to us. We're all hoping you can deal with the Collectors, Shepard." Said Anderson

Shepard nodded his head. "That's what Cerberus brought me back for, I make the impossible possible." Shepard looked at the time and decided it was time to go. "I'll talk to you later Anderson."

"I understand, Shepard. If you ever want to talk, feel free to come by anytime." said Anderson

Shepard left Asgard Station and back at the Docking bay.

Asgard Station

Docking Bay

When Shepard got out of the elevator and onto the docking bay, he saw a familiar Sangheili, he thought he would never see again. "Toha?"

The Sangheili in red armor turned around. "Shepard! It has been too long."

Shepard and Toha walked up to each other and took the other's hand. "I'm glad to see you." said Shepard. "I thought you were busy working on top secret missions?"

Toha nodded his head. "Indeed! Missions I cannot reveal, but I have completed and would like to join you on your mission to fighting the Collectors."

Shepard was surprised. "That's not common knowledge. How do you know?"

Toha was happy to explain. "When the Senate focused more on preparing for the imminent war with the Reapers, they passed on the responsibilities of stopping the Collectors to the one group whose job it is to protecting all OSA colonies around the Mass Relay network. Obviously it would be Cerberus. And the only one to lead this mission with none other than be you, Shepard. Your success in battle is legendary, as almost like Spartan's."

Shepard flattered and happy to see, Toha. "Of course you can join me, I'd be almost insulted if you didn't even asked."

Toha bowed his head. "I would have liked to fight the cowardly Collectors, but I was needed elsewhere, I thank you for this honor, Shepard."

Both Toha and Shepard stepped on the Normandy. The Normandy then disconnected from Asgard Station and left for the next dossier.

I hoped you guys enjoyed this chapter. Like always leave a review for me and, I look forward to making the next chapter.

Codex-OSA Police Force

OPF- OSA Police Force (OPF) handles law enforcement on OSA affiliated stations and colonies. It is a volunteer police service answering to the ones who are in charge specifically on High Charity the OPF would answer to the Senate. If on Asgard Station they answer to the defense Committee and on Colonies they answer to the Governor, and is headed by an Executor who often liaises between OPF and the people in charge.

Structure- The current Executors of OPF range from Humans to Sangheili, Kig-yar, Yanme'e, Unggoy (rare Occasions). The OPF Academy itself is located on a space station dedicated to training anyone who wants to be part of the OPF.

Befitting their "public service" culture, it was the Senate who first proposed creating a police force for the OSA, which may be why more than half of all OPF officers are Sangheili and Humans. Other races appear to form the largest minority. The 200,000 constables of OPF are responsible for maintaining public order in the densely populated Space stations and OSA colonies, as well as providing pirate suppression, customs enforcement, and search-and-rescue throughout OSA affiliated Stations and colonies and there surrounding space.

Divisions:

Enforcement: Uniformed officers who patrol OSA stations and Colonies, dispense discipline for minor infractions, resolve disputes, and respond to emergencies.

Investigations: Detectives who gather evidence, solve crimes, and bring their perpetrators to justice.

Customs: Officers who screen the passengers and cargo that pass through OSA ports, confiscate contraband, and arrest smugglers.

Network: Technicians who deal with "cybercrimes", such as identity theft, copyright theft, hacking, viral attacks, and illegal missues of AI.

Special Response: Officers who deal with hostage situations, bombs, and heavily armed criminals. In the event OSA stations or colonies are attacked, they are the front line of interior defense, armed with military-grade weaponry

Patrol: The ships crewed by the Patrol division serve "coast guard" functions, such as search and rescue, piracy suppression, and interdiction of illegally transported materials. They are not used to defend any OSA stations or colonies from naval attack; that task is left to the OSA Fleet.

Recruitment- Joining OPF is prestigious; applicants must be sponsored by either the OSA Senate, or the ones in charge where there is a present OPF or the ambassador of an associate OSA race. Generally applicants have many years of distinguished service in the military or police forces of their respective nation, but an inexperienced applicant with demonstrable talent will be fairly considered. Most rookies are posted to the comparatively-calm stations under OSA control to get some operational experience and familiarity with protocol before being assigned to OSA colonies.

Relations- While OPF enjoys a long and respected history with the Senate itself, OPF and the Senate's Specops are often at odds. Many OPF members, notably the Executor's believe that allowing Specops to be 'above the law' is a dangerous practice. In turn, the Specops are aggravated when OPF's dedication to procedure and due process hampers their investigations.

Many of OPF's own officers—usually detectives like Bailey and Harkin—occasionally find themselves at odds with OPF's strict regulations, likely in place to keep order among so many different races and factions on OSA colonies. As Harkin discovered, OPF is not above keeping files on its officers if the Executor feels disciplinary action may be warranted.