Damnation this one took its time to finish... anyway:

I thought that, since that last chapter was kinda dark and Quote Brutal End Quote, I would give you guys a much less dark chapter. And on forehand, sorry, no Kasumi in this one. She's still undergoing Indoctrina- I mean education with Miss Chuchi (Yes, someone called her "miss" so from now on she is Miss Chuchi), and therefore we won't be seeing her for some time.

Also, to those of you who said you were going to cry when Jenny left: Get out your napkins, I'm devoting 12K words for her departure alone!

Well, onwards and upwards!

Departures and Bunny-ears

November 28th

Arcturus Station, Arcturus stream

Hospital ward

08:22

"Well... this is so far the most relaxation I've had since I was drafted..." The monotone voice of Adrian said as he typed on his keyboard, the haptic display shimmering with each touch.

"Be glad you were drafted, that means you had a civilian life before all this. I never did..." Scorch muttered as he craned his neck to see the screen above him. He still had no way of moving neither hands nor arms, since he still had most of the bones in them shattered like dry twigs. Worst thing was, there was no more bacta. They had used it all to keep Fisher alive on the first planet they had met the crew on, therefore not having any left for use. It was a bit ironic actually, but he wasn't sure why.

"You were a child-soldier?" Adrian asked, his brow raised in a silent question.

"In a way, yeah... believe me, you are lucky. You can go back home when all of this is over. That's a bit more tricky for some of us though." Scorch said, not understanding the look of misery on the man's face. Sure, the colony had been attacked, but it was still there. Someone had to have made it out. Him returning to Kamino, the only place that could really amount to a homeworld, was in a place far, far away.

"Don't know about that. I was kinda forced to stay on Valhalla for seven years... ... ... what's on the news?" Adrian asked. It could be a bit weird to talk to someone who could be grieving, pissed or happy, and his voice would be the same. Liara and Scorch both turned their attention back to the screen above them. It was a news broadcast from the Terminus Systems. Boss, who had his legs in a cast, sat up in his bed as well.

"There has been a drastic development in the Terminus today. The mercenary organization known as 'The Blue Suns' have experienced a coup." The young woman in front of the camera said. It was a reporter, but thank the Force it wasn't the annoying Jilani.

"Major fighting broke out as a fleet of Suns landed on Zorya. Over the course of a full cycle, they fought the residing forces for control of the believed head quarters. Just four hours ago, the execution of former leader Vido Santiago was broadcasted." The woman said. The scene turned into that of what looked like a court or a trial being held. A Turian was standing in full armor at a podium while a human dressed in short shorts was standing on a lower platform, chained to a chair. Around them were hundreds, if not thousands of similarly armored soldiers of different races. Turians, humans and a few of the Commander's race, though Scorch had a headache that prevented him from remembering just what the heck they were called. Something along the lines of 'Karins'?

"Vido Santiago. You are accused of betraying Zaeed Massani, co-founder of the Blue Suns. You are accused of sponsoring terrorism, organized crime, pillaging, rape, murder, robbery, back-stabbing, conducting terrorism, torture, extortion and vandalism. Do you have anything to say in your defense?"

"Fuck you! Fuck you all! You can't do this to me, I'm too important to the Suns!"

"If that is all the accused has to say in the matter..." the Turian said. It was pretty appalling just how many things this guy was accused of. Scorch knew Sith Lords with a better reputation

"Fuck you scale-face! Your mother was a Krogan whore!" Vido, who Scorch supposed the man was, shouted in rage. Instead of offering Vido a response, the Turian just stood more rigid.

"Then what is the verdict?" The Turian asked

"We find accused, Vido Santiago: Guilty onall charges." A man from the left said, standing from row of people seated in the side of the room. Scorch could, even from his side of the screen, see the way the news impacted the man.

"Vido Santiago. You have been found guilty of all charges, and I hereby sentence you to death." The Turian said again, and the camera zoomed in to capture the sentenced face as the judgment was given. What was unusual was how the entire crowd erupted into cheers as the camera followed Vido and an escort from the room.

"We would like to alert you to the following images being graphically rough." The woman said before the pictures continued.

The picture changed into that of a line of men, all identically armed and armored as they stood in front of a now pole-tied Vido. This reminded Scorch just how primitive this place still was in some areas. Executing prisoners, was just barbaric. Either you shot people in combat, or you jailed them. There wasn't any middle-way, as he saw it.

A salvo of shots rang out and Vido sunk to the ground, deader than dead, as large pieces of his body had been blown off. That was something plasma didn't do, hence why he preferred his own guns over those used by the crew. Still, the others' rifles were more accurate over long distances, even if they had nowhere near the amount of damage his gun had.

The news then became an interview, as he could see it, with a Turian. It looked like the one from before, but all Turians looked alike to him.

"Commander Ardenian, I'm sure everyone in the galaxy has the same question on their lips right now. Mind if we ask you, just why this revolution took place, and what you plan on doing now that mister Santiago lies dead?" The reporter asked. The Camera, a drone probably, zoomed in on the Turian's face as he took a second to answer.

"The Blue Suns are going back to our roots. More than twenty years ago, ages for most people, the Suns weren't the terrorist you know today. We were the protectors of the Terminus. We stood up for the weak, protected those the local governments had let down and just generally kept the peace. We made do with what we had in order to combat corrupt governments and warlords. We made it a rule carry out thorough checks on anyone who joined us, hence the smaller organization, as we often turned down candidates. Then, twenty-one years ago, we were betrayed at the core of our organization. I know this used to be a deep secret, but I see no reason to hide it. We were founded by two people. One was Vido Santiago, the terrorist scum you just saw receive justice. The other was Alliance Captain Zaeed Massani." The Turian said. Even Scorch, who had no idea how to read Turians, or who Massani was, could feel the respect in the way the Turian spoke the name. Was this Zaeed something akin to a Jedi? He had seen enough controversial magic here to think just about anything possible.

"Zaeed Massani? You are talking about the Captain who stood for a major part of Elysium's defense?" The reporter asked, evidently surprised. The Turian nodded before he continued;

"Indeed. We only learned of his location and status a few months ago, but his example is what has driven this revolution. Vido tried to kill and sweep him under the rug. Massani just got back up, as will the Blue Suns. We will be redirecting our efforts back to the safety and security of the Terminus citizens once operations have been reestablished and we have a full status."

"So... you intend to change the image of your organization from that of terrorists to... what exactly?"

"Not change: Resume. We are going back to being the ones who stood for the weak and the poor. A fitting image could be fighters for justice, although every organization is bound to have a few rotten apples. We just need the galaxy to understand that the Suns are back on the right side of the law, even if our methods can be a bit harsh. I would also like to extend the offer for Commander Massani to return to us. I know he has chosen a new path, but it would be a major victory for all should he return to the Blue Suns."

"In the case that Captain... sorry, Commander Massani doesn't want to return. What are your plans then?"

"In that case... you are talking to the leader of the Blue Suns. It is a heavy duty, and not one I cherish. Still, someone has to do it, and it cannot be someone without experience in the matter. I have lived through the horrors Vido imposed on the innocents, and I have no desire to see those events repeat themselves."

"You don't believe naming yourself the leader can spur a new revolution?" The reporter asked. The Turian held his hands up in a defensive and reassuring manner;

"On the contrary, I was elected. Well, elected among the Reformists, but I will treat all with the same fairness. Our ranks have been bolstered after the thousands of surrendering Loyalists all over the Terminus, and I have no intention of harming those formerly loyal to Santiago."

"While that being noble... how come?" She asked. The Turian seemed to take slight offense at this, making Scorch scratch his chin... had he been able to. Having a pair of broken arms impaired his functions.

"Most of them were kept in the dark about what happened back then, and others did not join until after the coup Vido staged. Those who knew about the attempted murder were either silenced of were in on it. We have only had to execute around a hundred prisoners across the galaxy in total."

"Admirable. It is no secret that Santiago was handy with trade, thereby securing the Blue Suns many of their recourses. How do you plan on getting your funding up and running after this?"

"I'm afraid I can't comment on that miss Allers. We are trying to keep as much as possible public, but some things need to be kept a secret. You understand I hope." There was a hint of a smile on the Turian's face as he spoke, but it was brief.

"Of course. Both the Alliance and the Hierarchy have their secrets."

"That they have... that they have." Ardenian said with an enigmatic smirk, causing Scorch to wish he could scratch his head in ponder. The Alliance had secrets? Still, it seemed obvious, since the Republic had had as well. Force, according to the corporal Tequila, the Chancellor had been the very Sith-lord they had been bred to kill. A few military secrets were to be expected no matter where one went. He wondered if those two jack-ass clones, Danson and Biff, had been secrets as well. They were clones, but they hadn't seemed all... right, when they had been transported from Valhalla to the station. Still, he had been half-way between deep grief and unconsciousness, so he might have remembered wrong.

"One last question sir. This one is from a former member of the organization who allegedly quit due to not approving of the current methods. How would you react to former members rejoining the Suns?" Allers asked, being rewarded with a sigh from the Turian. Yet, it was not a tired sigh, or an angry one. It sounded more like he was content.

"With these words: Get your uniforms back on people, we have the whole Terminus to clean up in." He added with a small chuckle. Odd, as Scorch had deemed Turians incapable of laughter. After all, he had only seen Garrus and Nihlus being in a bad mood so far, whenever he had been near them at all. It had mostly just been him trying to figure out how to speak ten coherent words to Liara without needing his helmet to hide the blush.

"Inspiring words, that much is certain. Well Commander, I am looking forward to reporting from your next great venture." Allers said, then stepped in front of the camera, revealing her to be Caucasian, with long dark hair and... not a lot of coverage from her clothes. Any other time, Scorch wouldn't have minded her interviewing him. Maybe even give her some... exclusive material. Still, that was in another life, another man.

The interview ended, and after a few pictures of the planet in question, the news changed to the latest update on where different companies were positioned in the galactic economy. Scorch turned his attention to the door when a few familiar faces entered the med-room they were in.

...

Arcturus station. Arcturus stream

Hospital Ward

08:35

Palming the interface, I open the door into the med-room. It really hasn't changed one bit since the last time I was in here. Then again, that was only two days ago, so what the heck should have changed? Nicolai is still in a deep, artificial coma, and the rest are looking at us. Well, rest and rest...

"Hey guys" I say, trying to smile despite my best friend being in a coma just three meters to my right. Next to me, Jenny is skidding inside, seemingly having a heck of a time due to the fact that the floor here is smooth enough for her to semi-skate around on. Sure it looks and is silly, but honestly she just seems to enjoy it too much for me to bother stopping her. Besides... I wouldn't want the last thing she remembers about me... being me telling her no, or even scolding her. Also, the very idea of doing so just seems wrong on all levels.

Hell, as if I ever would...

"Thomas, Ashley. Good to see some new faces in here. Company's been pretty stagnant since I got here." Scorch says, giving his best smile as he watches Jenny slide around on her way to where Liara is lying, several wires and nodes decorating her head and scalp, as well as her right leg raised in a cast, held up by straps going into the railings above her bed. Looks a bit funny, but also practical I suppose. Ashley steps up next to me, leaning a hand on her hip.

"Scorch, Liara, Boss... Adrian was it?" She says, greeting the people injured on our mission. Adrian just nods, his stitched jaw trembling slightly as he seems to nod, the machines hooked up to him making a new sound as he types into a keyboard.

"Hello Chief Williams. Hello Corporal Fisher. It is a pleasure meeting you while being conscious." The Microsoft-Sam like voice saying, reminding me of what I could have turned out to be had I chosen to remain on Earth.

"I'm here too you know Williams." An annoyed, but also lightly amused Tali says from the other side of the door leading to the clean-room. I wonder why we even have those if Tali and John are some of the first Quarians here. From the other side of the transparent door, Tali emerges, now without her helmet obstructing her face, as well as a more open suit dressing her.

"Sorry Tali, didn't know you were awake. How's the leg?" Ash says, seemingly not taken aback by the unmasked Quarian in front of us all. I'm sorry, who just turned reality off?

"By my ancestors' tentacles..." Roku whispers upon seeing the actually unmasked Tali. Despite being pretty sure my ancestors didn't have tentacles, I could have said the same thing.

Tali's face... I would almost say it was a human, but... there are significant differences. First of all, her skin is a grayish, pale purple with the occasional darker lines of deep purple, like glands, going over the skin. Second, she has a number of what almost looks like fluorescent dots covering her upper face along with the bridge of her nose, the latter being a little thinner than what would be healthy for a human. Her eyes are clear silver, but not silver like a blind person... no, it's like the actual metal is engraved in her eyes, shining and gleaming like there is no tomorrow. They lack the black pupil humans and most other races have in the center of our eyes, instead being just one large silvery orb, centered in a white sclera that looks like it just merges with the silver. They are also bigger than what we have, but positioned in the same manner as human eyes. Her black hair is tied up in a long braid behind her head, probably being the most efficient way to have hair when wearing all that equipment. Her ears are poking a bit out to the sides, displaying a longer tip, as well as a more pointy one. Why is it I knew she would have some sort of elfish traits?

"Broken." Tali states, giving a light shrug of her shoulders as she looks at us. A Quarian brow, very similar to a human one, is raised in amusement; "What?" She asks, looking at me. The others seem more relaxed at seeing her without a mask, making me wonder if they already have. Probably, seeing as they have been stuck together for more than two days in a sick-room.

"Thomas, you're staring." Ash remarks, kicking me from my stupor. Damn... I always figured Quarians to be more like Asari, but she looks almost like a human.

"Cannot say I'm surprised. They are a mammalian species on par with humanity, as well as possessing both male and female members. It stands to reason they would look something like you."

"Right... sorry..." I mutter, scratching at my neck. This is both a really uncomfortable, but also fascinating experience. Timing sucks though.

"Come on Williams, he's just dazzled by my beauty." Tali says, a wide grin appearing on her face, showing her teeth. Damn... well, John did say they had canines... but the front teeth too? Most of the visible teeth in her grin are pointy, giving off the impression that had her biting me been real, and not a hallucination, I would have lost my arm a bit faster.

"Careful Tali, or I'll tell the Commander how you ogled another man." Ash bites back, a contesting smirk on her face. Tali's grin just widens as she brings up a hand to glide over her face. Even from this distance I can see it being a bit closer to a human hand than a Turian, despite the number of fingers. They are a bit thinner, true, but they look the same, even with the fingernails at the end. Given the predator-like teeth, I wonder if those nails used to be claws once.

"You know I'm not into humans Ashley. Besides, scars turn me off. No offense Thomas." What... what just happened to the shy and cautious Tali? Did someone make an evil clone while we weren't looking?

"Ehm... non-taken?" I try, not really sure on how to respond to that. Meanwhile, Jenny has climbed onto Liara's bed and is getting seated on the Asari's lap. As well as a cast leg would let her at least. Her eyes are turned to Tali, both wide as dinner-plates.

"Talý, are you an angel too?" She asks, causing all eyes to fall on her. Even Adrian gives out a choked laugh at her question, although he seems to pay for it when his face is twisted in brief pain. Damn... maybe I should have run instead of walking, then he could breathe normally...

"An...a what?" Tali asks, sounding both flustered and confused. Both her eyes are looking right at Jenny as if to discern the meaning of the word. Seriously, Quarians don't... right... no angels because of... right...

Seeing how all eyes slowly turn to me and Ash, I look at her as well. Because, even if I'm human, which in itself is starting to prove less true than it did a year ago, I'm not sure I'm the best person to explain that one.

"Hey don't look at me, I've got no idea what an Angel is." Scorch says, causing Boss to sigh, as well as Liara to stifle a giggle. Probably because of the unexpected turn the meeting just took. Right... take Jenny in to say goodbye... end up explaining to a Quarian what angels are... story of my life...

"Ash, Hun, you get this one." I say, craning my neck so as to speak to her without the others hearing. She gives me a raised brow;

"Why?"

"Well... you're kinda the only Christian by belief in this room... unless Adrian is too, so you should be better suited for it. Also, I just know whatever I would say would end up biting my ass." I mutter the last part, trying to keep it from Jenny's ears. The original Jack cursed enough, I don't need to cause the same thing to happen again. Next to me Ash just takes a hand to her forehead, in the 'Oh boy, how do I say this?' manner. It's funny that it's kind of a thing I can read from her, even before she says anything.

"Ehm... Angels, Tali, are sort of... well, when a good person dies, according to the Bible and Christian belief, they go to Heaven. I guess you'd say it's the place where your ancestors are. Here they can spend an eternity in paradise and such. In Heaven, God resides along with his son, Jesus Christ, after whom our belief is named. Serving God, countless beings of light exists. They are called angels and serve as one of the links between Humanity and God. Throughout known history, Angels have been said to have interfered with humans, even talking to them. They are said to be the most beautiful beings existing, and look like humans with feathery wings." Ash says, sounding like she's trying to call up her old education, or maybe just what her parents taught her. I wonder if her mother is a nice woman. Got to be, she raised Ash, so...

"First, her father helped too I'm sure. Second, why are you pondering over the personality of Ashley's mother?"

"Right..." I muse, looking at Tali. She looks, if possible, even more confused than before. The same actually goes for the rest of the room's inhabitants too. Except for Adrian, who's just looking on in the silence a pair of healing lungs allow and impose.

"But... I don't look like a human, and I don't have wings." She says, then turns to Jenny who's still looking at the Quarian with big eyes; "So why ask if I'm an angel?" She says, sounding both confused, as well as a bit embarrassed.

"Because you're pretty Talý. And Ash just said Angels are pretty. And your eyes shine like diamonds, so you look like an Angel." Jenny exclaims, almost like a teacher to a confused student. I'm not sure if this is extremely cute, or extremely confusing, as well as slightly weird. Still, the grin spreading over my face, unhindered by my trying to keep it down, seems to decide on the 'extremely cute' option.

"You think I'm thát pretty?" Tali asks, sounding more than just a little embarrassed now, as well as astounded. Well, 'Gorgeous' is more fitting, but if I say it, Ash will kick me in the shin. I wonder if all Quarians look like that, seeing as she doesn't consider herself special?

"You could always just ask either Wrex or maybe Aytheta, if we ever actually meet her. Both are old enough to at least have a picture of an unmasked Quarian... or you could just look up 'Unmasked Quarian' on the web."

"Yeah, and your ears looks like elf-ears. You look almost like a purple Arven." Jenny states, as if it was the most natural thing in the world. Wait... Arven, as in the woman of Argon's life? Okay... first, is Lord of the Rings still watched these days? And second... she was five when she was taken, at most. How in Dante's Hell does she know Lord of the Rings?"

"From what I can gather, you had the books read to you when you were five too."

"Well yeah, but there's the difference that mum kept falling asleep. I had to read them myself."

"Even so, you read them when you were six at most."

"Well the books are one thing. Try showing a toddler how an army of orks throw decapitated human heads over the walls of Minas Tirith, then come back and call me on my BS!"

"A purple Arven? Who's Arven?" Liara asks, looking down at the child standing on the floor with her arms crossed in a way that is horrifyingly similar to Shepard's. Before I can say anything, the seemingly endless casket of surprises answer her.

"She's the love of Aragon's life, and he's the king of Gondor. And Gondor is the biggest kingdom in Middle earth." She exclaims proudly, like a student who just schooled the teacher. Tried that once... bugger kept saying I was wrong when I insisted that 'The Divine Comedy' was written by Dante, not Aristotle.

Boy was that a long day...

"And we're supposed to know who that is? Or what that is?" Boss asks from his position next to his bed, leaning against a crutch. He has a small, but evident smile on his lips, something I've come to realize is a rare thing to see. Especially since he rarely takes the bloody helmet off.

"It's like the best fantasy ever written silly-boss. I've read all four books, and seen the movies." Seriously? How the hell can she have done that? Did I save a protégé on top of a super-biotic? Still, the tone of confidence in her voice allows none to doubt her. she really knows her stuff. But still, how?!

"Still not following... but never mind that. Fisher, Williams, miss Nilsdottir. I assume the reason for your visit is the nearing departure of our dearest crewmember?" Boss says, nodding at Jenny. In the meantime Tali has pulled a chair up to the her side of the door.

Boss's question brings my mind back to where it was at the beginning. We're here to let Jen say goodbye to the people still laid up in bed. Since they can't say farewell at the shuttles, we found it more fair to let them say bye in person.

"Yes, we... are going to catch a ship for Earth, seeing as the Normandy is still under repairs." I say, trying to keep a casual face.

"Right then... I think this has been on my squad's mind for some time now." Boss says, then limps over to Jenny. She's looking at the normally fearsome and calm soldier with curious eyes. He kneels down in front of her, clearly biting back the pain it causes him, but visibly keeping his face a warm mask of calm. Only his twitching mouth betrays the pain he is going through from the movement.

"Jennifer Nilsdottir. You are without a doubt the most brave, and fearsome girl I have yet had the honor of meeting. I have thought, ever since you came to the ship, that if Sev had been a girl, you would be her. You have endured pain, and horror that would have broken most minds, but look at you now." He says, hesitating. His eyes are batting away a small glint in their corners. Then he retrieves something from a pocket in his undersuit; "On behalf of the Delta Squad, I, Boss three-eight, present you with the Republic Helios of Courage." I can feel my heart skip a beat as I watch Boss procure a small, round object fastened on a string. Without asking, he puts it around her neck, the small medal resting on her chest.

"B-Boss?" Ash says, having regained her speech before me. I'm still trying to get my jaw to stay still.

"What is it?" Jenny asks, holding up the medal with a curious and confused look in her eyes. Boss gives Ash a brief glance, the puts a hand on Jenny's shoulder.

"It's an award, given to those who face down the baddest of the bad people, and come out as the better. You, if anyone, faced the worst odds thinkable on Teltin, and yet you are alive and well. A spite to those who harmed you if I ever saw one. This means you are one of the few people I consider to be as brave as me, little lady. Wear it with pride, and know that one day, you shall be a person others will look up to for guidance and leadership in times of peril." Well that's no pressure for a six-year old girl Boss... Still, even if I can feel a tingling of annoyance, the hair on my arms are standing. They only do that at good times.

"It's true, you know. Fixer was the one who saw it before either of us did. He knew you would be great someday Jennifer, and by the Force, you will." Scorch says, drawing attention from the still kneeling Boss to him.

"You guys really think so?" I ask, not being able to keep quiet any longer. they are basically saying Jenny is going to be some sort of war-leader. Not really something I look forward to, with the reasons that people can die in that profession, as well as the small fact that she is still just a little girl. Fuck me, she hasn't even really started school yet.

"Of course." Boss says, getting to his feet with the help of his crutch; "There is grounds for greatness in her Fisher. Never doubt that." He says, his hawk-like eyes drilling into mine. Heck, taking down the Harvester was easier than staring this guy down.

"I never did Boss, but remember she is a child." I say, crossing my arms while looking at Jenny climbing up to hug Liara.

"I know, but so was I once, and so were you once. And look where we stand now, on the precipice of a war for galactic survival. I believe our little crewmember here will have a role to play, one that we may not truly see before she enters the stage for real." He says, following my gaze to where Liara is embracing Jennifer, hugging her small frame against her own.

"I'll miss you Jennifer, Goddess I will. I'm afraid though... that I don't have a gift for you in the end. I never was much good at goodbyes." She says, having to heave in an extra breath to keep talking. I don't think I've seen her like this since Noveria, with her mother being missing in a sea of Aliens.

"That's okay, just don't be sad, okay? You can come visit, and then we can dig in the park for old ruins." Jenny says, leaning out from Liara's embrace. The Asari quells a sob, instead smiling at the girl.

"Yes, I... I'd quite like that Jennifer." She says, giving Jenny one final hug before letting her jump down from the bed. Jennifer then runs over to Scorch, crawling up on him as well. He gives me and Ash a quick shrug with his shoulders, empathizing his inability to use his arms. So Jennifer just sits on his lap with crossed legs, gently taking his broken hands in her own.

"'Sup Jenny?" He says, giving her a wide grin. Instead of answering, she just taps him on the forehead with a finger, causing everyone else but Liara to widen our eyes in confusion. Yeah, I'm not above admitting that this one has me pretty much on clueless.

"Ah, yes I suppose that's true... Dammit, I had so much hoped you had forgotten about that." He mutters, though with both smile and a nervous glint to his eyes.

"No way. Now, ask her or I do it." She demands, pointing at Liara who is finally looking just as confused as the rest of us. Taking what seems like a huge breath, Scorch turns his head to face Liara. For some, highly entertaining, reason, his face starts reddening even before he says anything. He gives Jenny a last look;

"Really? But the others are watching." He mutters, looking at the rest of us. I feel a laughter coming, as I'm starting to see where this is going. Looking next to me, I notice Ash having the about same facial expression of amusement as me and Boss. Adrian is just looking on like we're a circus, having little real clue as to what the reasons for our behavior are.

"Yes, now ask or I will."

"But-" Scorch splutters.

"Oh Liara, Scorch wants to-" Jenny starts. Scorch's right hand, despite being both broken and tied up in a cast find its way to Jenny's mouth, cutting off her words. Instead of fighting, she just crosses her arms while nodding her head towards the now dumbfounded Asari.

"You little Aklay... Force me... fine, I'll ask, but... all of you better cover your ears and... look away or something." Scorch exclaims, his face nearing tomato-color. Oh Mara this is going to be gold!

"Not happening Scorch, I'm not missing whatever this is." Ashley says, grinning at the heavily blushing commando. For a moment, it looks like he wants to say something, but a tug on his suit from Jenny makes him look away, then breathe in again. With what looks like the effort of the century, he turns his face towards Liara.

"Alright, alright... Liara... I was wondering if, you know... you... I mean... you remember when we talked about that... thing, before Noveria? I mean, it's not coffee, I... I mean, I was just wondering if you... wanted to... go... out... with me. You know, at some time, not now of course, but sometime where we can get to know each other a little better and I can maybe buy your food because that's what people do and then maybe we can go see a movie or something if you don't want to see a movie but that's just me and maybe you do want to-" His stream of words is cut off by a new tug from Jenny, causing him to actually breathe. Damn, the babbling of Tali with the speed of Mordin...

"Right... Liara... would. you. like. to. go. out. with. me?" He forces each word out while his face goes from red to deep purple. At the door, Tali is close to falling from her chair in laughter. While she might be a pleasing sight beyond human capabilities, her laughter is... well, probably really attractive to Quarians, but... it sounds like it's a few octaves to high. Maybe that's just me...

While Scorch looks like he is about to blow up, Liara like she was just shown a nude of Wrex, and Ash looking like she is having a great time, both Jenny and Boss look disturbingly self-satisfied. Wait, did those two plan this? Damn... and I who wanted to keep her clear of any bad influences...

"I... Scorch, do you really mean that? You want to go on a date with me?" Liara asks with a small voice, almost sounding like she's afraid her voice will cause his head to explode like a balloon. She then looks at the rest of us, her own face starting to change color;" We can... discuss that when alone." She says.

"Great, true love blooms at last! Just like in the books." Jenny exclaims, standing on top of Scorch's bed with a face that just screams 'Victory!'. She then kneels down on his chest before hugging the clone's head;

"Take care Scorch, okay? Don't go like Fixer, I would be really sad if you did." She says, her voice going from victorious to a small and low-voiced plead. A soft smile appears on Scorch's face as he leans his head forward onto her shoulder.

"Don't worry Jenny, I will. Besides, thanks to you, now I have to stay alive to go on a date." He says the last part with a chuckle to his voice.

Letting go of his head, Jenny then runs back to Boss. Instead of kneeling down, he nods to me. With a smile that grows wider and wider, I lift Jenny up on Boss's bed. She then stretches her hands towards the commando, beckoning him closer. As he complies, she wraps her small arms around his neck, causing the seasoned veteran, the trained and experienced killer, to blush. His face changes color even faster than Scorch's did, now that he finds himself receiving what I am guessing is the first hug in his life. For the first few moments, the clone just stands there, seemingly at a loss. His eyes go around the room for guidance, but finally they settle back on the girl in front of him. Slowly, but steadily, his own hands find themselves around her smaller form.

"To be human, when you have been bred and trained your whole life not to be... is a challenge greater than that of cheating death. It is the victory of the human spirit that shows itself, even in the darkest of times. When we are threatened with becoming nothing but machines, we look to what makes us human."

"Roku? Damn... that was... beautiful!... mind if I write it down?"

"Not at all. It was a spur of the moment, but I am glad you found it appropriate."

"You stay safe too, okay Silly-boss?" Jenny whispers to him. I don't think anyone but Boss himself and me can hear her, me just because of the enhanced senses. For a moment he doesn't answer, instead just holding her in his embrace. Somehow I have a feeling this is some of the most scary stuff Boss has ever done.

"I will... miss Nilsdottir?"

"Yeah?" Jenny says, giving him a bright smile.

"Why do you always call me "Silly-Boss"? I don't behave silly, do I?" Boss asks with voice hoarse with emotion. Fuck, if he is this moved... how will Wrex react?

"I'm guessing he will act cool, then go either shoot something or drown his sorrows in ryncol."

"Sounds like what he would do, alright."

"No... but I think you should. You never smile or laugh, you're always so serious. Can you be happy, and smile, even if it's just for me?" She asks, her voice that of a child, but her words being wiser than most educated people I have ever met. Known her for almost a month straight... she still surprises me.

"The confinement and stress of captivity must have matured her beyond her age."

"I don't really want to go there Roku. Not today... but remind me to maim Miranda the next time I see her."

"I'll write that down."

"No you won't" I reply with a small smile, watching how the entire room is caught up in the embrace shared by Jenny and Boss. To see him show actual emotions... is not a familiar thing.

"Right, but you will still go around now, imagining me writing something on a Fire nation-scroll."

"Damn... you're right."

"I'm always right."

"I'll try, miss Nilsdottir, I'll try." He says, his voice on the verge of breaking. Out of all of us, he was the last one I expected to feel like this. I didn't even know he was this close to her, at least from his point of view. I think Jennifer likes everyone on the ship. Hell, she might even have made Sev go soft...

"Okay. And don't be sad, you can come visit me too." He fights down a chuckle at that, the sounds escaping sounding more like a failed sneeze. For some reason, I can't stop myself from smiling at that.

"And when you start in your educational facilities, I can come and discipline anyone who misbehaves towards you. Deal?" He says, holding her out in front of him, then slowly letting her slide down from the bed and onto the floor.

"Deal." She says, making the salute she fails so adorably at. Except that she actually gets it right this time, meaning I'm back at the bottom of the list again, in the aspect of being good at saluting that is.

"Come on Jenny, I doubt these people can handle more hugging." I muse, extending a hand for her to take. As Jenny reaches for it though, there's the sound of a door hissing open behind us. Looking back, I'm more than a little surprised to see Tali wearing a sort of mask over her mouth and nose as she trots towards us with firm steps.

"Don't you dare forget me you little Bosh'tet." She says as she falls down on her good knee in front of Jenny. Acting faster than I can even blink, Jenny has turned around and wrapped her arms around our resident purple Arven clone. I am so much calling Tali 'Arven' from now on.

"She's probably going to give you the "I've got a shotgun" speech of you do that."

"You're silly too Talý. I would never forget you, okay?" Jenny says with a low voice as she hugs the Quarian. Tali's eyes are gleaming, her jaw trembling as she clutches Jenny for dear life.

"I guess we can assume Quarians possess tear-ducts similar to humans."

"And just like that, the magic is gone..." I mutter, annoyed over his untimely comment.

"If you do though, I'll have my father park the Migrant Fleet on your doorstep. That would teach you, Jenny'Nilsdottir vas Normandy." She says, her voice sounding like she as well is holding back a sob. As a response, or maybe because she just is who she is, Jenny gives Tali a kiss where the tears are trailing down her cheek.

"Bosh'tet, now I'll get an allergic... oh screw it." Tali exclaims as she takes her mask off, planting a kiss on Jenny's forehead. Won't taking off her mask kind of kill her?

"She did it in the second, and I'm guessing she would do it in the third game as well. So no, it probably won't if it's just for a short period of time." Roku says as Tali puts her breather back on, the seals clasping tight with a hiss. Jenny gives her a curious look;

"Why will you get allergic Talý?" She asks. Tali gives the girl a soft ruffle through the hair before answering.

"I get sick a bit easier than you sweetie. Don't worry, I'll just get a funny red ring on my cheek, and you will get one on your forehead." She smiles, wiping away the tears still going down her cheeks, as well as down her nose, making it look like she has a cold before the droplets slide over the mask.

"That's sad. Why do you do that?"

"Comes with... with living in a suit like I do. That's why it's a good thing when you get sick. Then your body can be better at fighting it. I could die from a cold, if I was unlucky." Tali mutters, giving Jenny a last squeeze before sending her back to us. Getting to her feet again, the Quarian sways a bit before standing firm.

"Keelah... it's a good thing I'm in a hospital anyway." She says, then looks at Jenny again, before holding a hand up; "S'kak, I almost forgot it." She says, activating her Omni tool. A line of numbers and letters appear, first in Kheelish, then in human letters.

"What's that Tali?" Ash asks, raising a brow at the hovering symbols.

"My extranet address, dummy. Like hell I'll let her go without a chance to contact her again." Tali says, then points the tool at me. Before I can do anything, my own tool lights up, signaling that I just received Tali's address.

"Which you are giving to me, because?" I ask, not really understanding the point until I glance at Jenny's arm, realizing that we never got an Omni-tool for her.

"So you can give it to her parents. And don't you dare come back without an address for me to write to." I'm not sure if the last part is meant for me, or the three of us, as Tali is currently looking at Nicolai; "It's a shame he doesn't get to say goodbye though..." She mutters before starting back towards her room. A small device on her neck that has been showing green so far, is starting to fade towards red. I wonder what that is...

"Probably a device meant for checking her health. If it reaches red for too long, I would expect a team of doctors to run in here."

"Smart... why didn't I think of that?"

"Because it's smart." Roku says, his snarky voice making his intention more than clear. Great, so he's in thát corner again...

"I know, but we cannot postpone further Tali, you know that." Ash says, taking Jenny's hand as we start moving for the door.

"Stay in touch Jennifer!" Scorch calls from his bed, just as the doors close behind us.

"So... you just saw Tali, a Quarian, unmasked... feeling like an revelations are coming your way?" Roku asks as we walk down the corridors.

"Hmm... not really, no. Don't get me wrong, she is strikingly beautiful."

"But no angelic choirs are singing currently?"

"Can't claim that much, no... though damn, John is one lucky Bosh'tet." I muse.

Half an hour later, the few remaining crewmembers who have yet to say goodbye, and who wants to, are gathered in the public area for ferrying back to Earth. I'm guessing this is where people will either board shuttles for the bigger ships, or where we all go to docking-tubes leading to the ships anchored to the station.

Currently we are waiting in the area marked 'Shuttles' with the crew waiting along with us. Even Joker is here, despite his tooth-pick bones.

"Alright kid, you be careful now. Okay? And also, don't forget that if they ever want to send you to a biotic school, ask for Grissom Academy. If they say BAaT or Helion-project, then you say no and demand Grissom Academy. You got that?" Kaidan says, kneeling down in front of Jennifer. She nods, showing she has indeed 'gotten that' message.

"Yeah because both those other places kinda wanna make you a superhuman killing machine, like a Terminator or something. Grissom is more 'pick a flower with your biotics' just putting it out there." Joker says from his seat in one of the rows of chairs.

"They teach other things too Joker" Jane remarks, holding up a blue glowing fist. The pilot visibly shrinks from the prospect of being subjugated to 'the wrath of the Shepard'.

"I know, I know, they make flying carpets too." He says, holding up his hands in defense. Wrex is standing behind him, fiddling with the shotgun no one dared ask him to leave on the Normandy or at the shooting ranges dotting this station. Odd thing is, he hasn't said a word or made any moves to say goodbye since he got here. Just... standing there like a Krogan guardian of old days, back when the Rachni were the terror of the galaxy.

"Alright, everybody get together. I finally got this thing to work." Garrus calls out. Turning to face him, I notice he is standing with his Omni-tool held up like a camera. A drone appears from it, hovering just above ground level while emitting a dull, blue glow. Not really understanding what's going on, we get together in front of it, in a rather unorganized group. That's when I understand what is actually embarrassingly obvious.

He wants to take a picture of us?

"It would seem like it, yes. A shame I can't materialize without making everyone freaking out. I would love to be on a picture."

"You would?" I ask as the group turns to face Garrus. A tug on my sleeve alerts me to Jennifer looking up at me, her hands stretched upwards.

"Let me guess: Shoulders?" I ask her, receiving a happy nod in return. With a broad smile, I kneel down in front of her, letting the little joy-bundle climb on to my shoulders. When her legs are on each their side of my head, firmly secured by me using the left hand to hold while pushing myself up with the right, I stand fully, causing Jenny to squeal with laughter as I raise her to far above the others. Well, except for Wrex, but he's a Krogan, so... yeah.

Garrus conducts some finishing touches to the drone, then rushes over to stand next to Wrex, of all people. Next to me, Ash places a hand on Jennifer's right leg while giving me one of her warm smiles. It's pretty dangerous though, as they still have the habit of making my legs waver like a sugar-deprived athlete.

"Alright, say... whatever your race says when the camera goe-" Garrus is interrupted by the flash and whirring of the drone as it takes the picture, resulting in his pose to be less than the probably stoic and epic one he had in mind. A shame too, I would have liked to make some bunny-ears over Ash's head, but I guess it can't be helped.

"Wanna go down?" I ask Jenny, craning my neck to see her face.

"Naj, now... Ponytail! Ferry me to the drone. I wanna see the picture." She commands, giving my side a pair of light jabs with her feet, like steering a horse. Instead of remarking on the fact that I am not, indeed, a Pokémon, I just shake my head before making a whinnying sound, jogging to the drone with her on my back, going from laughing to commanding me faster, and back to laughing.

"Stop that Fisher, you look like a damn female." Wrex mutters as he shakes his even larger head, taking his eyes from us and to the flash-printed picture.

"That a compliment Wrex?" I ask, giving Jenny a smirk while gesturing at the Krogan.

"Heh... yeah, you've never met a strong woman until you've met a female Shaman." He says, a look of pride upon his face as he glances at Jennifer.

"You have female shamans? Thought that was a man's job." Garrus says as he takes the picture from the small nano-forge in his Omni-tool. It's pretty damn amazing just how versatile these things are.

"Yeah, like Turians have female Cohorts and humans once had a female... what'd you call it, a paper? No... A pop?"

"The Pope?" Ashley asks from next to Garrus, trying to get a look from over his shoulder, then just deciding to take it from the Turian, causing an insulted 'Hey!' to be heard.

"Right, that was it. Never met her, think it was back before you made contact." Wrex says, leaning against the seats Joker has just retaken.

"Pope Augustina the First was, as the name suggests, the first female pope. That was back in 2101, when Johan died. She was kind of a conservative, not wanting to allow Aliens Alliance Citizenry unless they were baptized. Hell, even I think that's going too far." Ash says, taking Jennifer from my aching shoulders. It leaves a warm spot, making me suspect she let some hot air slip. Well... at least it doesn't smell...

"Did it work?" I ask, rubbing my neck.

"Not really, no. Sure, the Catholics wanted it done, because she said so, but the rest of the world just saw someone who wanted to stir up some problems, seeing as homosexuals and sexual education, as well as both Atheism and abortion had been allowed in the Church for more than fifty-nine years at that time. So, what better way to cause some attention than to demand the migrating Quarians and Turians to convert?"

"So she was like the Vatican's very own Sarah Palin?" I ask, remembering the extreme satisfaction I had gotten out of seeing the Alaskan woman carry out one major fuck-up after the other. Right from naming North Korea our ally, to saying Obama was a Socialist Islamic Communistic Nazi. I wonder if she even knew what half those things were, or if she just listed off the things Americans didn't like?

"Probably the latter. She was not exactly listed high on the list over people to be spared if we decided to wipe out the human race... I mean, she was dumb."

"What was that about the human race?"

"What was what?" Roku says, while a weird whirring sound grinds the inside of my skull.

"Ehm... I... what?"

"What? What is it Thomas?"

"Eh... nothing, I just... thought... never mind." I shake my head as Ash replies;

"Right... Sarah Palin... doesn't really ring a bell. Who was she?"

"Well, back in two-thousand and eight, the Republicans pointed at a man named McCain, and a woman named Sarah Palin to be president of the US. To describe her... ehm... imagine if Khalisa Jilani- what's her name, went into politics and had success at it, but still just as dumb. That would be the short version. Maybe I can dig up some YouTube vids later on."

"Thomas..." She says while repositioning Jennifer on her lap; "YouTube hasn't been on the web since... well, I think FBI took it down sometime in the nineties..." She says, sounding genuinely sorry. What?!

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Damn you Federal Bureau of Intelligence!"

Roku screams in my mind, causing my ears to grit at the sheer agony and horror in his voice.

"What?" I mutter, not being able to get much more out.

"Sorry... I think it was because there were too many people putting entire movies on the site, it cost the producers too much money." She says, placing a hand on my shoulder. I just shake my head;

"But... but it was a thing of beauty! It was freedom incarnated!" I retort, not sure why I'm sounding more and more angry. I breathe in, forcing myself to cool down before I accidentally start glowing.

"Well... we have Vid-Web now... it's almost the same, you just have to pay to put a film there." Ash admits, sounding a bit bothered by the fact. Or maybe it's because she has to explain it to me, that makes her bothered.

"Damn... I guess that means I can't go watch Lord of the Rings on the web now." I mutter.

"The books were better anyway." Jennifer says, at the same time as a blue- and white shuttle comes into view, heading for our area.

"On that, I guess I can agree. They left a lot of good stuff out of the movies." I say, giving the girl a smile as she sits in Ash's lap, the woman of my life gently stroking her hair; "All right Ash, let me see the bloody picture already." I extend my hand, snapping the picture between two fingers from where she holds it out.

"Well... I always thought you sucked at being photographed. Now we have the evidence."

"Shut it, I look good. A lot better than my high-school pictures anyway."

"It's not hard to improve on garbage... it's a good thing Jennifer draws attention from your stupid grin."

I am standing in the middle of the picture, since Jennifer is supposed to be center. Next to me, Ashley is smiling with a hand on Jennifer's right arm. She, on the other hand, is strikingly beautiful on pictures.

Left of Ashley, Jane is giving Joker a glare while he is in the process of retrieving his hand from behind her head, the cripple probably scared of her breaking his knees with a stare alone. Next to Joker, and behind Ashley, Wrex is giving off an air of dominance. He has a rare smile on his face, but that does also involve him barring his teeth. So even while smiling, he looks like a hungry T-rex. Kaidan is standing next to him saying something to Tequila who seems more interested in giving Jenny a pair of bunny-ears, yet fails due to the height. Next to her again, John is palming his visor, looking like an embarrassed parent watching his children derp it out. And in front of him, to my left... or well, on the picture it's to my right, the two resident Turians are standing. Garrus, standing closest to me, has his face turned to the side, in the process of telling us to say 'cheese'. Nihlus is perhaps the only person looking sane on the picture, with his posture normal and a small spread of his mandibles as he looks at the camera-drone.

The sound of the shuttle landing draws my attention back to the real world. Ashley is getting up, making sure Jenny is on the ground before stretching. Giving her a tired smile, I grab a hold on the trunk containing everything and anything Jenny has gotten in the time we have had her.

It's not that much really, just her new uniform, her new clothes, her swimsuit and the mug scribbled 'PRIVVATE JENNNIFER' on. We didn't have anything that could erase a thick marker, so she just put a line over it whenever she messed the letters up. Other than that, she doesn't really have much. There's of course the medal Boss just gave her, which is hanging around her neck, and the picture. The latter I'm in the process of packing down as well, not willing to risk it getting lost. I just hope we can send one of the rest of the crew later.

"Well... this is it then. Have you said goodbye Jennifer?" Ash says, giving the girl a soft smile.

"Can you all come visit?" She asks the crowd. Surprisingly, it's Tequila who answers.

"Damn straight we will. And I'll bring Churros, so you damn well better have some chocolate ready." She says with a wry smile, bringing to mind whenever my mother used to take the piss on me. Still, I'm surprised because I didn't think the corporal had any real relation to the girl.

"I will... I think." Jenny replies as we step onto the shuttle. Then, as if one surprise wasn't enough, Wrex follows us in. Ash gives me a raised brow at that, but the old Krogan seems to have read her mind, 'cause he just sits down on two seats before smacking up his feet at the other side.

"What? You think I'd let this little Pyjak go without making sure her parents don't turn out to be a pair of Varrens?" He argues, giving us a lazy, non-negotiable look.

"Yay, Santa's coming with us!" Jenny, on the other hand, seems almost like she is elevated by this, and instantly crawls up his hump. I know he isn't going to hurt her, and I have seen her do that before, but it makes me cringe when she climbs the back and head of the strongest member of the most violent species there is, like it was nothing special. Turning his eyes to follow the tiny human, Wrex just grumbles at that;

"Damn you child, I said not to call me that." He growls, but doesn't do anything else. Feeling my worries slowly subside as she dangles her feet from his red-armored hump, I sit down across the shuttle from them, careful not to push at his feet. Ash sits down next to me with a sigh, sounding like she's tired, more than anything else. With a smile forming, I put a hand around her shoulder, pulling her in. She responds by resting her head on my shoulder as the shuttle starts heaving itself from the hangar, and out into open space.

"So... going back to Earth, huh?" She mutters in my ear, not loud enough for Wrex, or the two terrified civilians also using the shuttle, to hear. It's funny how they stare at Wrex and Jenny, almost like they expect him to eat either the little girl or them.

"Yeah, it's gonna be a blast..." I say, not meaning it. First of all, this is probably going to be the only chance I get in a long time to see if anything has changed in Denmark too, since the two countries are so close together... and I have not really any need to do just that. It's just... I don't think I'll be able to handle physical proof that my parents are dead, in case they are listed in some data-files or buried somewhere. But on the other hand I'm probably going to regret not doing it. Still, not doing it sounds fine, right about now.

Second, we're going down there to watch Jennifer depart. To send her on her own way, and to maybe never see her again. Write with her, sure as hell I'm going to, but to see her would require... I don't know, me being alive and having the time would be a good start.

"You want to check out your homestead while there?"

"Not really..." I mutter, looking at my feet.

"Why not?"

"If your parents died while you were away on duty, and you didn't even see the funeral... if you knew their remaining lives had been lousy because you were away... would you want to go where it all went wrong, just to satisfy an ounce of curiosity?" I mutter, still not wanting to look her in the eye. My response causes her to fall silent for a while.

"No... I guess I wouldn't." She says.

"That's why I don't want to Ash. I... I left them, and their lives went to shit because of me. If I go back there, even if what happened never did happen... I'm not sure if I can take it." I admit, feeling my chest crunching in on itself.

"Thomas..." Ash starts, putting a hand on my cheek. While not pulling away, I don't immediately respond to it, instead not feeling up to anything but looking at my shoes, checking if the laces are done right. Of course they are, but I'd better check, just to be sure.

"Thomas, look at me." She says, the concern in her voice too much to not react to. With a slow movement, I turn to look at her face. Her brown eyes are pressed in worried lines, causing me to feel guilty for not being a bit more open.

"She does always know how to press your buttons, you've realized that?"

"Sorry, I just... I don't like the prospect of seeing that planet again." I mutter, then feel a small chuckle escape me; "Just... I know it's silly, to sit here and complain about it, when it never even might have happened here." I say, shaking my head at my own stupidity. Ash's hand then cups the other side of my face, drawing me to fully face her again.

"Thomas, you know you can always tell me what's wrong, right? No matter how weird it may seem, I'll always be open." She says, her voice thick with love and compassion as she rests her forehead on mine.

"Eew, they're going to kiss again." Jennifer says from her seat on Wrex. Looking at her, then back to Ash, I give her a smile, shrugging it off;

"Well, is she right?" I say, cocking a brow while Ashley is grinning. Taking that as my cue, I pull our lips together, turning a bit to avoid cracking her nose. She still has a way with her tongue touching my lips that causes my blood to boil, even if we kiss somewhat descent.

Going from one kiss, I give her a new, quicker one. She follows it up with a more heated kiss, her lips parting to allow her pink tongue to escape into my mouth, playing around until my own joins it in a heated, loving dance of passion.

"Eeeeeew, Wrex, tell them to stop!"

"Heh, you don't like kissing, do ya Stump?" He chuckles over the soft sound of Ash moaning with comfort as I return her tongue to her own mouth, with mine in tow. Breaking off the kiss before it escalates, I pull Ash up on my lap, folding my hands around her stomach as I lean back, pulling her with me. Making it up for her seat, I just enjoy feeling her weight shift and adjust in my lap, leaning her head back next to mine. A weak chuckle escapes her lips as they brush past my ear;

"I guess she was, huh?" Causing me to crack an even bigger smile, turning to plant a pair of lips on her cheek, catching her as off guard as one can at the moment.

"Just you hope she isn't going to say smother." I whisper into her own ears, causing a faint blush to appear on her cheeks, as well as her breathing becoming more labored.

"Will you please stop that, there are people in this shuttle other than the two of you. Punks..." One of the civilians says, a heavy French accent, as well as an expensive dressing marking him off as more of a politician than an officer. Not dignifying him with a response, I just lock my lips with Ash again, while also flipping the man off. I'm not sure which brings me the greatest joy right now, but looking past Ashley's closed eyes, the man's seething is definitely making it a close race.

"What the- do you have any idea of who I am?!" He bursts out, seemingly oblivious to the audible growling coming from the eight-hundred kilo Krogan a meter away from us. On top of him, Jenny is sticking her tongue at the man, making Ashley the only one not to actively insult the man.

"Hey, shit-slinger? Do we look like we care?" Wrex exclaims, more amusement than anger in his voice.

"I am Nolan Dubál, representative of President Samantha Grissom of the United states of America!" He says, sounding like that's supposed to impress the eight- or so-hundred years old Krogan battlemaster.

"And I am Urdnot Wrex, Grand Chief of Clan Urdnot of Tuchanka. The litter of my clan ate bigger shits than you for lunch, now stuff it or I kick you off the shuttle." He growls, barring his teeth.

"You are insane, I say. We are in space!" The man protests.

"So? I'll just shut the door afterwards. Now, do as a dead Varren, and shut up. And you kid, get that tongue back in or that Vorcha over there get's you on his lap." Jenny instantly retracts her tongue from the open air, looking frightened that Wrex even dared make that threat. Being the adult in the group, Ash seems to want some peace;

"Listen here mister Dubal, we-"

"Dubál"

"Whatever, we are going to Earth, as I'm guessing you are. Now, can you please keep quiet? We have someone here who needs some sleep, and Wrex hasn't eaten yet." She says, gesturing at both Wrex and Jennifer. I hold back the laugh her comment about Wrex would have caused, instead just smiling at her way of speaking.

"I swear, I choose to use a public shuttle for one day, and I'm assaulted with lovesick fools and barbarian Krogan. Go back to that filthy rust pile you call homé, and stay there." Well, gotta give it to the guy, he doesn't lack for balls. Thát, or he's just plain stupid. In any case, the low, menacing growl coming from Wrex is enough for me to fetch Jenny from his hump. Just as I snatch her, Wrex stands up, with enough force to make the shuttle shift slightly in its vector... and we are in space! That should not even be a physical possibility!

Nevertheless, the old Krogan stomps over to the man, the latter growing paler with each dinosaur-like step. Dubál's companion, whom I had actually pegged for a civilian bodyguard, is just watching the scene play out with mild amusement on his face, looking on while his French friend is closed in on.

Wrex get's all the way in the man's face, his nose... or whatever it is, not even two inches from his human opponent. The Krogan draws in a long and deep breath, allthewhile giving the man a stare of death.

"Boo" He says, showing all his multiple teeth in the process. The way the representative is sitting, I can't help but notice the dark stain appearing at the front of his probably expensive pants.

"Hah, didn't think so, lousy Pyjak. Williams here's ten times the man you can ever hope to be, and she's a fuc-" He stops himself, glancing at Jenny; "-Bloody female. Better you stay quiet for the rest of the trip, don't you think so too?" He demands, turning the side of his face to the man. Ironic, really, that the feature marking the Krogan as prey, is the most scary thing about them. When they turn to look at you with just one eye, the feeling it causes dwarfs most other types of either fear or awe.

I give Ash a quick look, cocking a brow when she returns it with a grin;

"Did... Wrex just enter politics?" I ask, not sure if it's even the right words to use, despite them describing pretty well what just happened.

"Meh, I'm sure it's more of a Battlemaster-thing." She shrugs. For some reason, it just sounds extremely adorable when she says "Meh". Probably because it's not something you expect girls... women, to say. Putting my arms back around her, I breathe in and sigh, oddly content with the way of life as it is. Sure, we can be killed anytime, and Reapers are very, very real... Saren is still on the loose, and now the Batarians have started some sort of slaver-campaign against humans... and yet, I think I have it pretty well made.

"Say... aren't we supposed to land in a ship of something? I think we've been flying for at least half an hour now." I say, looking at my Omni-tool's crono.

"Beats me. Still, good point... Hey, suit-n tie guy. Yeah, you not having pissed yourself." She calls for the guy who hid behind his luggage while Wrex scared the Bejebes out of the Frenchman.

"Y-yes?" Okay, so he's still scared? Damn, politicians today are weaklings. Hell, even the old Pia K. could have handled that better, and for fuck's sake, she was sixty-something. Granted, she was the bulldog of Danish democracy, from what I remember, but still.

"Why are we still flying? Shouldn't this thing have landed in a ship by now?" Ash asks, while the man is slowly regaining his posture.

"No, t-this is an FTL-capable shuttle bound straight for Earth. Wir brauch nicht ein link, in the form of a ship, aber wir kannst just pass through the Relay." Right... so, either my translator is damaged, or German was never really installed on it. Neither sounds practical, so I should probably get someone to look at... ah, never mind. It's not as... Wait, he just said we were going through the Relay in a SHUTTLE?

"Seems like it... this should get interesting."

"Ehm... better ask him."

"Ehm... Herr, warum mussen wir... pass through the Relay in diesen shuttle?" I try, not sure if his translator might be the one fucked up. He gives me a, while still pale, raised brow.

"Warum sprechen sie Deutch? Es ist dein translator that ist damaged, nicht mine. Spre- Speak English, if it is easier." His answer makes my face heat up, feeling more than just a little embarrassed.

"Right... say, why do we need to take a shuttle through a Relay? Isn't that like, I dunno, really dangerous?" I ask.

"Not mit diesen klasse. Die LV-Kodiak kannst gehen between der Relays just fine. Es ist die K5-Kodiak that cannot gehen. Verstehen?" He says, gesticulating at the same time. Dammit, I really have to update this shit...

"Yes, so the LV can go between the Relays, but the regular K5 can't? And we are in a LV right now?" I ask, receiving a nod. I fall back on my seat, releasing a breath I hadn't realized I was holding. Damn... I haven't spoken German in almost... five years I think. I probably sucked at that...

"Well, you could have done worse."

"But also better?"

"Also better." Well, that's a relief... wait, no it isn't.

"So, how long until we reach Earth?" I ask, trying to get what I can from him.

"Ach... I denke, sieben stunden. So... du verstehen?"

"Yes, had German as a student. Easier than Spanish, that's for sure." I mutter, noticing the raised brow Ash gives me; "What?"

"Well, then you better hope your translator knows Spanish, if you ever meet my mother."

"She's Spanish?" I ask, not expecting this at all. I mean, yes she has a tan that suggests Latin roots, but I didn't realize it was that close. I was thinking more like maybe her grandparents or something.

"Yep, well, Peruvian to be precise, but they speak the same Spanish, so... yeah, better get your translator checked in that case." She says, giving me a warm smile. Gods I love it when she does that.

"So... you're half South American?" I ask, cocking both brows. She responds with a warm nuzzle on my neck, making my ears heat up as a result.

"Mmmm... shocked?"

"More like 'pleasantly surprised' really" I whisper into her ear, careful not to speak too loud with Jennifer sleeping in Ash's arms. She really does strike the image of a mother, when holding Jennifer like... wait, why did I even consider that?

"Because you-"

"Never mind that."

"Oh? And why might that be?" She asks with a daring voice, her mouth lopsided in a cheeky, but warm smile.

"I was so sure that your warm personality was my doing. So sad I can't claim the honor for you being so bloody gorgeous in both appearance and person." I smile, gently playing a pair of fingers around her lower ear, causing hairs to rise on her neck.

"Ouh, so sorry to disappoint you there corporal. Still, there are other traits I have, that you might find 'warm' if you know what I mean?" I can practically feel the longing in her voice, and I would be lying if I said it wasn't mutual. Ever since we got to Arcturus, we haven't had any alone-time for more than five minutes.

"Dammit Ash, don't give me a bon- I mean, don't get me all worked up here. Wrex is right over there, and you have a kid on your lap." I whisper, not being able to get my voice raised without the thick emotions being audible in it.

"I know, just getting you warmed up for when this is over. Still, you are right..." She says, her voice changing from sultry to serious as her eyes go from me to Jennifer, heavily asleep in on her lap, with a pair of Ash-arms as blankets. I admit, there are few times she is calm except for when she is asleep... which I suppose is normal for a six-year old girl. Yet, she has a sort of angelic aura over her when asleep, one that hides any signs she might have that shows what her life has been like up until this moment.

The scars on her wrists will always linger in some way, but as thin lines, not the deep and irritated red marks anymore. The bar-code on her head was removed by Chakwas before we arrived on Arcturus, causing the area under the brown pony-tail to be bare, showing a thin area where skin is growing back after minor surgery. The scar on her forehead is, thanks to the wonders of modern medicine, almost completely vanished, along with the rest. She no longer looks the malnourished little girl I found on Pragia, but instead a healthy child with a good dose of bravado instilled in her spirit.

"It is time we bring her home" Ash says, hugging Jennifer a bit closer, but still gently.

"Yes... I suppose it is."

Damn...

Well, I wanted to make the entire chapter from when she left the sick-bay and till she was home safe and sound (nothing is certain there people), but I already wrote 12-fucking-Thousand words here, and I know how tiring it is trying to read longer chapters on a phone, and then one wrong touch and the chapter goes all the way back up and... right...

If you feel like doing me some extra favors, include in your reviews who your fav-character so far is, and which pairing you like the most. The reasons for both are also welcome. This is for my own amusement, as well as trying to see why and what people (you guys) like about the people I flesh out or bring in.

As a last comment, I would like to state that what I do is based on how popular it is. Hence I write more of this story currently than of Avatar, seeing as the chapters got so few reviews. I know, that it is a weird reason to operate on, but I just don't want to write what no one reads. That being said, I hope you will enjoy whatever I give you, as it makes me happy, making you happy... Okay, that sounded somewhat creepy, and I don't know why...

Well, remember to- blast, already said that... ehm... hmmm... what else... hmmm... oh, right!

I was asked lately if there would be an epilogue after this story. To that I just answered that there would be... if one considers three following "books" to be epilogues XD

Yup, you are not getting rid of me that easily!

See ya :D