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    Seanu Reaves

    The Shogun of Gaming
    “Wait, Krogan!” Artemis called to the reptilian crewmate. “If it isn't a bother, would you mind staying out here? Always good to get to know your teammates right?”

    Artemis gave the Krogan what was supposed to be a comforting smirk while tipping her hat, though with her facial markings and the shadow from her hat's brim probably made her just look predatory.

    Artemis sighed, trying to figure out how to word her questions. Wrex was known around the Galaxy by this point as a brutal combatant, yet he was still targeted. Artemis flicked the scope of the rifle up and made sure it was secure to the work bench. Her fingers dancing on her omni-tool as she started with her diagnostic scanner, starting by focusing. on her scope. Her hands finally descended onto the gun itself, practiced hands removing the Thermal Scope quickly. Then the real work began, her thin blue fingers making little adjustments as exacting as a surgeon.

    “People in the Alliance call me Artemis, by the way. Pleasure to meet you.” Her rifle extends to full length with a series of clicks, after a closer inspection Artemis lets out a soft. “Good the High-Velocity Barrel is looking fine…”

    “I was wondering, what you think about this mission? While I am excited to work with a Shepard… Something seems off.” Artemis zoomed in on her omni-tool, and pinched the bridge of her nose. She pulled a plate off the side of her rifle and began fidgeting with some of the internal bits of her weapon.
     

    Phantom

    Uh, I didn't do it
    Kain paused, turning around to face the aasari, Artemis. He shrugged, making his way to the bench, watching the asari work with her rifle. He rolled his shoulders a bit before crossing his arms. "Urdnot Kain," he said, after she shared her name.

    “I was wondering, what you think about this mission? While I am excited to work with a Shepard… Something seems off.”

    He pondered on her words for a moment. Kain had worked with asari many times before. Capable warriors, and skilled biotics, the lot of them. Even the most unskilled asari was a master of the craft compared to, say, krogan with five hundred years of experience. It was just a natural fact.

    This asari, was very young. She was probably older than he was, but young for her race. Probably in her Maiden years, the years were young asari go out into the galaxy to explore and take in everything they can. They become philosophers, warriors, and scientists. With how this one was acting, it was obvious she had taken the warrior route. And the fact that she cared so much for this weapon, Kain was betting on her being a merc, or maybe special forces. Either way, this young asari had to have a good amount of experience to be tossed into their program last minute like that.

    That was another thing, her selection for the team was... off-putting. It seemed to be a political card played by the asari council member. He'd have to keep an eye on this one.

    "Hmm. Off with your rifle? Or with the captain?" he said cautiously, but his eyes bore into the asari. He couldn't help the low growl that came from him. She better not be questioning the little Shepard before they'd even gone on their first mission. The commander was an honorary Urdnot, and so, in the eyes of the clan, so was her daughter. Meaning the kid was family.
     

    Seanu Reaves

    The Shogun of Gaming
    “With my rifle… And I suppose with this mission.” Artemis said with a sigh. “But I can see how the timing made my position confused. As my commanding officer, I have to trust her judgment.”

    Aren’t you the charismatic one Ae’Raya… Artemis thought to herself. Barely past introductions and already managed to piss off the Krogan. With a small grunt she forced the side plate of her riffle into place. She knew she would have to test the rifle before true combat breaks out. She kept running her scanner back and forth, as if hoping she missed something. Artemis was usually laid back, but when it came to her rifle she was a perfectionist. She clicked the thermal scope into place, and saw she left the Hammerhead rounds in her rifle. That brought a small smile to her lips.

    Artemis looked up from her gun to study the Krogan. He was young, head plate not yet settled. Yet he was massive, even for a Krogan. If Artemis had to bet credits, she would bet that the Krogan could take a shot from her rifle and not even have his charge slowed. Even though her rifle was customized to have as much kinetic striking power as possible, specifically on the off chance a Krogan berserker was rushing a teammate or VIP.


    “Kain, eh? Pleasure. But can’t you smell something is off? This hunt… Well our enemy doesn’t seem to move logically. Let me be the first to say this, Krogans are on the bottom of my ‘preferred enemy’ list.” Turning off her scanner for a second, Artemis pulled up her list, and showed it to the Krogan. It was natural for a hunter like her to catalog her prey. “Yet… This Cerberus remnant targets not just any Krogan… But possibly the most famous and not to mention dangerous Krogan in the galaxy.”
     

    Phantom

    Uh, I didn't do it
    “With my rifle… And I suppose with this mission. But I can see how the timing made my position confused. As my commanding officer, I have to trust her judgment.”

    Kain nodded. Right. At least she wasn't young, and reckless. That, or at least she knew that he would not be very pleased should she insult their new captain. She did seem to be obsessing over that rifle of hers far more than any sane being should. Then again... she was dressed... strangely. He'd seen clothing like this in old human vids. Strange attire for an asari. But he was not one to judge. Though the hat might have been pushing things. Perhaps the hat would meet an unfortunate end during the mission. Kain could only hope.

    "Kain, eh? Pleasure. But can’t you smell something is off? This hunt… Well our enemy doesn’t seem to move logically. Let me be the first to say this, Krogans are on the bottom of my ‘preferred enemy’ list. Yet… This Cerberus remnant targets not just any Krogan… But possibly the most famous and not to mention dangerous Krogan in the galaxy.


    Kain shrugged. "Perhaps we should look at it from another angle. Why would my people, my chief be a target?" He lowered his head for a moment. It was an unsettling idea. "Because the response is obvious. They knew that there would be retaliation for such an act. It very well could be a lure."
     

    CapObvious

    A Rotten Scroungeral
    Crixus nodded to the Shepard child, who he really needed to start referring to as his Captain.

    You're a turian, son. Act like it.

    He spoke clearly, noting her informal speech, hoping he could respond in kind.

    "I'm doing alright, I believe. Still trying to get a understanding of things is all. Got lost once or twice looking for this place. Despite it being...so close by." He finally stopped picking at his "chili" and took a bite, tasting it slowly.

    Not terrible. He wasn't sure if it was because he liked it or because an Asari made it that made him comfortable eating it. Didn't matter.

    He thought about how awkward the situation felt. He wasn't accustomed to being so friendly with his commanding officer, even though he enjoyed the change of pace. It felt wrong in a way.

    He shook his head, taking another bite.

    Next question, son.

    "As for my settling in, well, i guess we'll find out as soon as I unpack my bags. Was too hungry to earlier. Hopefully once I take care of that and get to know the others on board I will do better."

    Before he could answer the third question, another human came to the table, his eagerness to devour the food he was given seeming to cause a stir with the cook. He was slightly surprised to see the Asari so friendly acting. Something told him it wasn't a typical thing.

    The feeling amplified when he saw the smile on the Captain's face.
     

    Skyrimosity

    Well-Known Member
    Joseph was assuming his post near the command center, from where the Captain would plot the ships course and of course where the Captain's computer was located. There was a brief notification that Alice had received a message. Joseph quickly glanced and saw that it was from a certain Ae'Raya Arreto or codename Artemis. Joseph was a bit surprised that Alice had already received a message but when he next saw the captain he would be sure to remind her. Next, Alice gave a brief description of their mission, emphasizing the importance that Cerberus be stopped. Then she ordered a liftoff, and the ship was on its way.

    Joseph did a quick examination of everything that was within his duty as the others began to introduce themselves. Joseph knew he could do that later and that it was more important for him to ensure everything was working as intended. After his check-up, he decided that it was probably time for a meal. He noticed that all of the other major crew members had dispersed so he figured they might be there.

    Joseph walked to the caf and wasn't surprised to see Captain Alice. After all she'd been through recently, he would've been willing to bet that she was starved. He walked through the line and received his meal. He smelled it, and couldn't really make out any of the ingredients within it. He walked over to the table and took a seat.

    "Hello Captain Shepard, I'm your Comm Officer. Joseph Newman. Haven't had much chance to talk until now, had to fix all the mistakes those incompetent Alliance engineers did to the wiring and whatnot. Sorry, not trying to complain. But those guys are just terrible. Anyway, you received a message at your terminal earlier. Before lift-off."

    Joseph was calm and smooth with his voice, and talked to the Captain as if a good friend for the most part. He was not nervous at all about introducing himself and gave off an aura of confidence with his body language.
     

    Simus

    An Excellent Site Member
    Alice watched the scene between Frank and Aethyta and laughed out loud when Aethyta slapped Frank on the back and caused him to choke on his bit of gumbo. Alice's laugh was one of genuine surprise, the kind when you see something unexpected and really, really funny. The kind you usually get looked at for because no one finds the situation as funny as you. The crew stared at their captain and Alice tried to go back to her lunch but was laughing too hard to eat. It took a concerted effort and a few deep breaths to regain her composure and Frank and Crixus were obviously looking for an explaination.

    "I'm sorry about that." Alice said, still chuckling. "it's just...well...I've known Aethyta since I was little and I've never seen her so friendly with a stranger. Much less offer one some of her finer desserts. She makes some of the best pie I've ever had. As in she can take a human recipe that she's never seen before let alone made, say cherry cobbler, use basic ingredients and make it worthy of a salarian Dalatrass. In fact the only thing she does better than bake is mix drinks. You've been doing that for how long?"

    "Two, three centuries. Kind of runs together after awhile. Especially when you start servin' Tupari spiked with Ryncol to shut up the other Matriarchs when they laugh the blue off your ass for talkin' about makin' new Mass Relays."

    "Uh...right. So...um...yeah. Sorry about that Frank. And Crixus. Uhh...anyway...I'm sure you'll fit right in Crixus but let me know if you have any problems. This ship is going to be home for awhile and I want you to feel welcome here." Alice sat up straighter in her chair and put her folded hands on the table, now done with her sizable lunch. "Now, as for your assignment you'll be under the command of Lt. Commander James Teller. He's in charge of the Liberators marines and you're going to help him make sure that they're ready for action at a moment's notice. There are fifteen of them on this ship and thirty servicemen and they all need to know how to hold a gun. And know what to do if we're ever boarded. Take some time to get settled and get to know the ship and then report to Lt. Commander Teller on deck 5. That's the cargo and training deck just below engineering."

    As Alice was talking she saw her new Comm Officer come up. Joseph Newman she thought his name was. Yes, that's what the manifest said. She stood up to shake his hand.

    "Welcome aboard Joe. I remember you from the meeting but it's nice to have an introduction. As for the engineers you shouldn't be so hard on them. We've got a lot of green crewmen under a lot of pressure on a state-of-the-art warship. There's gonna be a few mistakes. I understand your frustrations though. I used to serve as a Comm Officer myself aboard the SSV Tokyo."
     

    Skyrimosity

    Well-Known Member
    "Welcome aboard Joe. I remember you from the meeting but it's nice to have an introduction. As for the engineers you shouldn't be so hard on them. We've got a lot of green crewmen under a lot of pressure on a state-of-the-art warship. There's gonna be a few mistakes. I understand your frustrations though. I used to serve as a Comm Officer myself aboard the SSV Tokyo."

    The captain said, while shaking Joseph's hand. Joe had heard a bit of the captain's exploits aboard the Tokyo in the time he was stationed aboard the Andromeda. Of course, most of it was about the attack on the Cerberus base that resulted instead of the story of how Alice had worked for many hours decrypting a Cerberus message.

    "Yes, I had heard about your decryption of a very elaborate Cerberus message. Not an easy task to be sure. Certainly it is also not easy to go from a simple Comm Officer to captain at such a young age. Sorry, I'm sure you get complemented plenty enough about other things to not care when some guy adds on another one. But it will certainly be nice working for a captain with an understanding of tech.

    My last captain, aboard the Andromeda, just an old figurehead really. The man had no idea what he was doing; appointment was more of a political move to honor his service during the Reaper War. Well, I'm sure by now you're starting to think I don't like the Alliance. Truthfully I do. It's just that inefficiency and incompetence... we don't belong on the same ship. I'm sure that won't be much problem with most of the simple grunts done with their gruntwork. The crew here thus far seem to be above average but I suppose all of us will have to prove ourselves during this mission." Joe said, knowing full well that a large complement of the current crew would have heard him

    Joseph shoveled in a bite of the gumbo. He noted that it wasn't bad, but it had certainly gotten a bit cold. He regretted not coming to the caf just a bit earlier.
     

    Wolfbane

    Why change the past when you can own this day?
    "All hands, this is Captain Shepard. You've all done an excellent job getting this ship ready in so little time and we're about to get underway. It's time I briefed you on our mission. Ten days ago someone tried to kill Urdnot Wrex, Warchief of the Krogan Clans. Today C-Sec found the culprit. Wrex was targeted by a human terrorist organization called Cerberus. We all learned about Cerberus in school and how they betrayed humanity and the galaxy at the height of the Reaper War. How they've survived this long doesn't really matter because our mission is to find them and destroy them. In ancient Greek mythology Cerberus was a three headed dog that guarded the Underworld. It wouldn't die until all three heads were removed. Well this last head has found us. We're the best the Alliance and the Council has to offer. We're better trained than our enemy, we're better equipped and we're a hell of a lot smarter. Do your jobs, trust in each other, trust in me and well all go home with one hell of a story to tell. Let's go open the Underworld. Shepard out."

    Shepard's voice trailed off, signaling to the rest of the people to get back to work and to reflect on the mission ahead. He must admit, that wasn't a bad speech considering. "I guess it's better than just 'kill them all'. Although it would have an absolute feel to it." He continued to walk towards the elevator to hitch a ride to the mess hall. For some odd reason he felt sociable. Plus he could use a drink. The sounds of his boots rang off the elevator as it went up towards the hall, and where his subordinates roomed. His room was near the officers quarters, which were nicer than the standard ones the non essential crew had. Now if there is no one at the table, he would still enjoy a quite drink with himself and his thoughts. One could lose track of time in space; sleeping can get thrown off, chemical can unbalance due to the lack of sunlight and the realization that you are floating around in a giant void, and you start to really think. A man like him has some things to think about after all. Some great, some not so great. James Teller is the kind of man that ponders about the daily workings of people, how they feel, and the problems they face. he guesses that's from his positions. His problems never escape his mind, his life choices, the highlights, the outtakes, the failures are all in swirling around.

    He was thinking too much. The doors slid open to the sight of Shepard talking to the Asari cook. His hands slipped into his pockets and his eyes then found Shepard and a Turian beginning to talk,"And you are more than welcome to join me Crixus. I just met a couple of my administrative staff in the CIC but you and I didn't have much chance to talk at the airlock."

    Not wanting to intrude, he turned towards the officer's quarters to find his room, which was bigger and cozier than the others, seeing how he was the commander. A hologram of a keypad popped up, 2501, then the door opened with a ding. The desk with his computer was blinking, a sign that he had received mail. He sat down, slid his finger on a certain part of his desk, then a bottle of aged whiskey and his favorite drinking glass seemingly spawned from the desk, giving him a feel of relief.

    Jamie,

    Been thinking of you. Hope you're doing good. My side is pretty low key, nothing out of the ordinary. It all seems quiet, for now. You know all that could change in a heartbeat. Stay safe out there, you're close to my heart
    -K
    He smiled as the message closed and the glass was empty. He was glad she was alright. It seemed like more than a couple months ago since they were stationed separately. She was one that didn't want to die, just like him. For once good memories flooded his head. He wanted to keep those for as long as he could. The galaxy has enough darkness. For god sake it resides in the biggest pit of darkness on this mortal plane. He exited out of the mail, and stared at a picture of him and a woman from his younger years. God he felt old looking at the attractive woman and his good looking self. Well, he looks dashing now, but he looked great then. Maybe he'll see her again. They are both in Alliance, so there is a good chance that they will.​
     

    Seanu Reaves

    The Shogun of Gaming
    Artemis let out a little giggle. This Krogan is exemplary, she thought. But we are still missing much of a far larger picture. Artemis hated blind hunts with a passion, she knew that is how you get people killed. That was how she got people killed. Artemis wondered if there was some way she could test her rifle on the ship or at least before a proper mission occurred. She snapped back towards the Krogan.

    “Are you a hunter, Kain? There is this concept, many races use it. Even your people,” Artemis put her scanner away. “Flushing. I have reason to believe we are in a game of… What do those humans say? Cat and mouse? Except neither knows truly which they are.”

    Artemis realized something as she softly spoke those words. She truly missed the true field of battle. During the Reaper War, she was able to set up proper blinds. The target was obvious and the field was static. You could account for all the variables. These black operations within populated space were taking their toll. One you could shoot cleanly through your target, and hit a civilian. The ups and downs of having such a good rifle at your side.
     

    Phantom

    Uh, I didn't do it
    Kain grunted. "Depends on the hunt."

    He was about to continue when he heard a crackle over the speaker. The young Shepard's voice soon spoke.

    "All hands, this is Captain Shepard. You've all done an excellent job getting this ship ready in so little time and we're about to get underway. It's time I briefed you on our mission. Ten days ago someone tried to kill Urdnot Wrex, Warchief of the Krogan Clans. Today C-Sec found the culprit. Wrex was targeted by a human terrorist organization called Cerberus. We all learned about Cerberus in school and how they betrayed humanity and the galaxy at the height of the Reaper War. How they've survived this long doesn't really matter because our mission is to find them and destroy them. In ancient Greek mythology Cerberus was a three headed dog that guarded the Underworld. It wouldn't die until all three heads were removed. Well this last head has found us. We're the best the Alliance and the Council has to offer. We're better trained than our enemy, we're better equipped and we're a hell of a lot smarter. Do your jobs, trust in each other, trust in me and well all go home with one hell of a story to tell. Let's go open the Underworld. Shepard out."

    So this was it. They were going after Cerberus after so many years of peace. It made him think of an old human philosopher, and of a line that Wrex had once told him at the end of the Reaper War. Wrex knew that peace would only last so long, and it appears as though he was right. War never changes.
    “Only the dead have seen the end of war," he mumbled the quote.

     

    Seanu Reaves

    The Shogun of Gaming
    “As I understand it, she is basically your family,” Artemis started. Taking a deep breath to try and figure out the wording.

    “Cerberus want to make a point… Now if they can’t kill say Wrex, or any of Shepard’s original crew. But they still want to hit a high impact target. They want someone who carries weight, but isn’t physically daunting. And something still doesn’t smell right.”

    Artemis sighed, and pressed a hand to her stomach. Damn, she was hungry. Hadn’t eaten too much before going to the council meeting. She let out a small sigh, somewhere between a groan and a whimper.

    “I am guessing you are going to keep a close eye on her.” Artemis said as she hefted her rifle to put it away before she went to get some food. “I will keep an eye on the horizon. May no enemy escape my sight. Til' all becomes one in ascension. May they find no solace from my rifle’s light.”
     

    Wolfbane

    Why change the past when you can own this day?
    "Aim, first of all. You can't hit a damn thing if you close your eyes every time you squeeze," he pointed towards the holo target that the nervous boy, no more than 20, was trying to shoot at. How was he going to train thirty of nervous boys, girls, and civilians? Most of these people want to fight, but haven't held a gun or been in a battle. The others were drafted due to outside circumstances. He never liked seeing young men and women lay down their lives. Reminds him of how he went in. The glory, the hunt, the honor, bringing justice to the galaxy. These people will know what it's like to shoot a man. The first kill is always the test, but the hardest until it gets easier. A thought he wishes wasn't true.

    "Try again. Keep both eyes open if you need to. That way you get the full sight, not just from your dominate eye. Relax your arms, and just fire. Don't anticipate the recoil," the boy fired again, making himself jump from the sound as well as hitting the outside area of the target. Vex sighed due to the fright and the shock of hitting the target. If this boy was going to live through this, he will have to shoot more, shoot often, and find whatever god he wishes.

    "The recoil hurts my shoulder and my trigger hand is cramping."
    "A lot more is going to be hurting if you don't focus! Feel free to continue to bitch if you want to get holey on the battlefield. Otherwise, take another shot," the new recruit took another shot, this time he acted like a proper recruit and hit the target without flinching do his rifle. The others were doing better than others; some moved on to other weapon handling while others did hand to hand exercises.


    "What's a pretty girl like you down here running through CQC? Shouldn't you be in the mess?" The Sargent rolled her eyes when she heard the typical insult. The snickering of the recruit's buddies made it that much more usual.

    Oh wow. You're so clever! Shouldn't you be on your knees in some bathroom with one of your buddies? Would you guys do? Decide to join the Alliance after a group date?" She yawned off the fresh meat while scratching the back of her neck, moving her short, mess of a hair cut. Long hair isn't really a necessity. She leaves enough for a standard shorter cut just stopping at the base of her neck, but short enough for the snide remarks of her being gay. She would have gone shorter, but wanted to have more to play with.

    "Why you little bi-" the cocky newbie tried throwing a cheap shot! only to get his feel kicked from under him and a swift kick in the mouth as soon as he hit the ground. Sweet water was of few words, and only a few know her first name. No one in that room deserves her first name aside from her Commander and Captain Shepard, who wasn't in the room with the former. She slowly took a stand on one area of the fighters circle while her opponent got up with bruised ego and a bloodied lip. Instead of attacking, she waited, watching the enemy. As soon as he threw a punch, she rolled it redirected it with her hand followed by a cross elbow. The enlisted jerk staggered back, then threw a punch to the stomach, followed by a knee to the face. He wasn't above cheap shots she soon figured out. This meant war. As soon as he threw his weight in a punch, she grabbed his arm, swung him around and applied an arm bar to make him kneel. So far he was t saying a damn thing. To drive home the point, she twisted it more, making him go face first in the mat, then dropped her knee on the back of his neck, signaling the end.

    "My name is Sweetwater. I'm your Sargent, and your second in command. If your commander is not present I fill the role. Don't Piss me off, or I will make life hell. Does any other rookie want to call me a dyke, or tell me that I should cook? No? Good," she then stepped down and stood next to her commanding officer, who was pleased with the show.


    "You wanted to join to fight. We'll train you to fight. But first we are beating you down to not only see who is fit, but to drain the weakness from you. You think it's all action and medals? If you do, see yourself out or I will myself. I've seen men die, my friends crying for one last breath, one more chance to see their loved ones. This is no war game. Cerberus is waiting, and they will stop at nothing, and I mean nothing. I have witnessed what they do, so has my Sargent. Learn to hate your enemy, and to love and respect not only your rifle, but more importantly your squadmates. If I hear of hazing by senior members or discrimination I'll see to it myself. Dismissed!" His voice rang as the recruits and marines saluted and continued on with their training. They will know the Alliance motto, but not until they earned it. Which might be sooner rather than later.



     
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    Simus

    An Excellent Site Member
    Joe went on to complain about the inefficiencies he'd seen in the Alliance but also try to emphasize that he was proud to serve and understood the gravity of this mission. He really didn't but right now no one did. They couldn't. They had only just started and at the moment their enemy was nothing more than a few names on a piece of paper with a scary reputation. They wouldn't really understand what they were fighting for until they found out what Cerberus was up to and when they had taken a few rounds. Alice understood this all too well, both from what her parents taught her and from her own hard-earned experience. She had gotten over her initial shock of her new command but it hadn't had time to sink in yet. Then she would start to worry. She hoped she could keep a brave face for her new crew.

    She listened to Joe talk and was genuinely flattered by his comments and appreciation for a tech-savvy captain. She was surprised he had brought up her Cerberus mission. "It's all right Joe. As you guessed, I'm used to praise so it's not a big deal. In fact, it's kind of nice to be complimented for something I did on my own rather than hearing about something my parents did. As you can imagine they cast very long shadows. Especially my mother." She paused to drain the last of her Coke Zero. "Actually I'm surprised you even know about that Cerberus message I decrypted. I was still an 18 year old kid in Grissom Academy when that happened, shadowing the real Comm Officer on the Tokyo during an externship. You know everybody was amazed that tiny little me spotted and broke that code? It wasn't even that hard. The Blood Pack codes were harder to crack, mostly because their encryption methods are inconsistent. Still, I guess it was good enough to get me my spot on the Tokyo. At least that's what I like to tell myself anyway. It's probably just because I'm Commander Shepard's daughter. Like why I'm here now." She realized she wasn't acting like a captain and stopped. "Sorry, I'm sure you don't want to hear about my problems. Yes, this is a big change from being a Comm Officer but I promise I will earn your trust as a commander...I hope."

    She mentally facepalmed herself. "Crap, sorry again. Just...try to keep this conversation between us okay? I've got a long way to go before this crew believes I'm a real captain. Especially the enlisted men who are eyeing me ring now and don't think I can see them." She raised her voice at the last predicate and several crewmen quickly diverted their gazes.
     

    CapObvious

    A Rotten Scroungeral
    Crixus chuckled as the crew swiftly turned their heads, trying to pretend they weren't all staring at the Captain, who seemed to be uncomfortable with the situation. He spoke up, continuing her conversation with him instead of acknowledging that he had heard her conversation.

    "Thank you, Captain. I'll be sure to keep you updated on anything that comes up. Now, to find this Teller fellow." He cleared his plate and tray and made his way to the deck he had been directed to go to...after asking for directions once more.

    Deck Five, under engineering. How had he forgotten that quickly?

    He stepped onto the deck, and caught the tail end of a speech that was being given to the marines and recruits that then resumed their training around them. He felt that this must be the Teller he was tasked to find and report to.

    Crixus made his way to meet the rough acting commander, raising his hand to his brow.

    He knew that he had to put on his professional face, as this was his commanding officer. The Captain may have been informal in her dealings, but he could tell this man was nothing like that in the slightest. Time to act like the turian warrior he was trained to be.

    His hand remained raised as he spoke. "Commander Teller? I'm Crixus, sent by the turian Councillor to join the Liberator's crew and team in its endeavors." He lowered his arm and spoke again. "Was tasked by the Captain to join you in your work to make these men battle ready, sir."
     

    Skyrimosity

    Well-Known Member
    "It's all right Joe. As you guessed, I'm used to praise so it's not a big deal. In fact, it's kind of nice to be complimented for something I did on my own rather than hearing about something my parents did. As you can imagine they cast very long shadows. Especially my mother." Joe watched Alice drain the last of her drink.

    "Actually I'm surprised you even know about that Cerberus message I decrypted. I was still an 18 year old kid in Grissom Academy when that happened, shadowing the real Comm Officer on the Tokyo during an externship. You know everybody was amazed that tiny little me spotted and broke that code? It wasn't even that hard. The Blood Pack codes were harder to crack, mostly because their encryption methods are inconsistent. Still, I guess it was good enough to get me my spot on the Tokyo. At least that's what I like to tell myself anyway. It's probably just because I'm Commander Shepard's daughter. Like why I'm here now. Sorry, I'm sure you don't want to hear about my problems. Yes, this is a big change from being a Comm Officer but I promise I will earn your trust as a commander...I hope."


    Joe was by no means a psychologist, but it was plenty easy to tell that Alice had a number of issues due to her parents. And this was probably no direct cause of her parents; just the natural result of having such famous family and famous family friends.

    "Crap, sorry again. Just...try to keep this conversation between us okay? I've got a long way to go before this crew believes I'm a real captain. Especially the enlisted men who are eyeing me ring now and don't think I can see them."

    "Well, we Comm Officers are not the most recognized heroes of this fleet. People never seem to realize that I myself am a trained engineer and electrician. Everyone knows that comm officers keep communications flowing, but do they ever think what it takes do that? You have to be very skilled to make it anywhere in this line of work. So everytime anyone makes a splash, like you decrypting Cerberus, it spreads around through our ranks."

    Joe was sitting at the table now, eating a meal of whatever it was that was served. "Just remember, Cap'n. No matter what you do, don't eat too much of this stuff before missions. Can't stop Cerberus from a bathroom. Isn't that right, Chef?" The chef grimaced at Joe, throwing some food at him resulting in the crew laughing. The food dropped on the ground, and Joe was smiling. "See, Cap'n? These are people. Treating them like machines just doesn't work. Doesn't work for the Alliance, didn't work for the Reapers. I'm sure your sick of my opinion, but just remember that your crew are humans, and other races, with wants, needs, and most importantly, fears. Keep them in-line without overbearing. Then you'll be fine."
     
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    Wolfbane

    Why change the past when you can own this day?
    (OOC didn't realize I took your color Cap, I'll change Sweetwater's color :p )

    "Commander Teller? I'm Crixus, sent by the turian Councillor to join the Liberator's crew and team in its endeavors. Was tasked by the Captain to join you in your work to make these men battle ready, sir."

    Vex looked toward the Turian named Crixus, saluted him, then shook his hand for a more inforaml approach. He signaled for training to continue before getting him filled in, "Pleasure to meet you. These are the new recruits that need training, but they don't like the fighting spirit. Turians know how to train their men and women, so I'm glad you're helping us. My Sargent can offer her assistance in any training. As you can see we're just getting into CQC and weapons handling. One of the hardest things for them is breaking through that wall of overwhelming fear and uncertainty. I train them hard at times, but it's to break down that wall and then show them how to kick some ass. I love all this crew and my people. I'd die for all of them. Anyway, what's your expertise?"

    He's going to have a heart attack once he knows I'm his XO. He's used to leading, but now I'm leading him. Should be interesting to see the crew and finally serve under a Shepard. What a legendary name, you know? A girl no less! That's what I'm talking about! Her knee bounced up and down with anticipation while she listened to music to make the shuttle ride faster. Not the best way to make an entrance, but on such short notice what can you do? She was just glad she was being made an XO as well as serving under Shepard while also being close to James. It was a good day.


    She had finally reached the SSV Liberator, and was now in the airlock awaiting tor approval from the captain, "Captain Shepard? I'm Kenzi Dennis, you're new XO. Pleasure to be serving under you ma'am. Requesting to come aboard," She swiped her omni tool to stop the music, and waited for approval. After all, she needed to maintain a level of respect.
     

    Simus

    An Excellent Site Member
    Alice listened to Joe patiently and was glad to have a kindred spirit in the tech and comm world. In fact, she hadn't seen someone so enthusiastic since her comm instructor at Alenko Academy, Major Traynor. She had served as the Normandy's comm officer during the Reaper War and was one of Alice's favorite teachers as well as yet another family friend. Then Joe started reminding her about her responsibility to the crew and was laying it on pretty thick. That was probably why Aethyta flicked a bit of gumbo at him and not because of his snide comment about her cooking, thought that was certainly part of it. Alice understood he was just trying to help though so she let it go.

    "Yeah, I guess you're right. People would certainly be easier to control if they were machines but then we'd..."

    "Commander." S.K.O.U.T said over Alice's omni-tool "There is a Kodiak shuttle requesting to dock with the Liberator. It was dispatched from Eden Prime and there is a Kenzi Dennis aboard."

    "Really? What does she want? Does she have any transfer orders?" Alice asked, both confused and suspicious of a new crew member suddenly appearing out of the clear black void.

    "She does. Alliance Command has appointed her your Executive Officer for this mission. Her name was never forwarded with the list of candidates for the Council to choose from. Though it appears to be a bureaucratic error I conducted a thorough search and found that her name was deleted from the list, not simply omitted. Her service record also does not list her current rank. Only the alias 'Harvy'".

    "What the hell? What makes this woman so secretive?"

    "Unknown. Ms. Dennis does have an extensive history of covert operations as an Alliance infiltrator and a history of service with Lt. Commander Teller. It is possible that some part of her record have been sealed to protect her identity."

    "That makes sense. Hopefully that's all it is. Radio Ms. Dennis and let her dock with the ship. I'll greet her at the airlock. Have two marines meet me there just in case, along with Commander Teller."

    "Right away Commander."

    "Thank you S.K.O.U.T." Alice said, then turning back to Joe. "Looks like duty calls. Thanks for talking to me Joe. We'll have to do it again sometime." She got up and headed to the lift, leaving her tray and dishes for Aethyta to clean up.

    One minute later the marines were assembled at the airlock and Alice was on her way there. She just stepped off the lift into the C.I.C when this Kenzi radioed her from the airlock.

    "Captain Shepard? I'm Kenzi Dennis, you're new XO. Pleasure to be serving under you ma'am. Requesting to come aboard,"

    "Permission granted Ms. Dennis. I'll be right there to let you in."

    The airlock opened up to reveal a tall, pretty blonde haired woman in skin tight armor with a cloak and a hood that was down. All bearing Alliance colours but definitely not standard issue. An M-97 viper, a rifle Alice knew well and respected deeply, was across her back and an M-4 Shurikan and large combat knife at her sides. Holographic warning lights indicating loaded disruptor ammo were displayed on both her guns. This woman enjoyed breaking shields and mechs. Alice, still in her Alliance fatigues, saluted Kenzi but stayed close to the marine detail.

    "Ms. Dennis, welcome aboard the SSV Liberator. I could certainly use more help on this mission and I assume you've been briefed but before we get into that I have some concerns about your rather sudden arrival. I wasn't informed by Councilor Hackett or Admiral Shepard that you were coming and you weren't at the Council meeting this crew was mustered to. Our A.I also pulled your file and wasn't able to verify your rank or large parts of your service record. This is a lot of unknowns for someone who is supposedly my XO. Would you mind filling in the gaps for me?"

    Alice's tone was official and polite but her eyes conveyed suspicion. For all she knew this woman could be a Cerberus sleeper agent and she would verify her identity before she took another step. Besides, her mother had always taught her that suspicion was healthy.
     

    Wolfbane

    Why change the past when you can own this day?
    The airlock of the ship finally opened and she was greeted by two marines and the captain, who rightfully questioned her as soon as their eyes met, "Ms. Dennis, welcome aboard the SSV Liberator. I could certainly use more help on this mission and I assume you've been briefed but before we get into that I have some concerns about your rather sudden arrival. I wasn't informed by Councilor Hackett or Admiral Shepard that you were coming and you weren't at the Council meeting this crew was mustered to. Our A.I also pulled your file and wasn't able to verify your rank or large parts of your service record. This is a lot of unknowns for someone who is supposedly my XO. Would you mind filling in the gaps for me?"

    She looked down at Shepard, then unveiled her face by taking her hood down before addressing the girl's questions, "Infiltrators tend to have sealed records and only go by their call sign. In my case, it's Harvey. I wasn't at the meeting because I was on assignment. If you want my full history, I'll gladly give you my record or just tell you. As for not being informed, either it was on short notice, or it was kept quiet for a good reason," she saluted her superior before setting foot on her new posting. She was glad that the young shepard was taking her position seriously. For a young, adorable girl like her it was going to be tough. She liked her already, "Please call me Kenzi. If you prefer of course After all I'm on your ship. So where do you want me, Captain?"
     

    Simus

    An Excellent Site Member
    "I see." Alice said, relieved that this woman was so open with her. Everyone was polite and open with her now that she was a captain. She could get used to this. "I suppose that makes sense. Infiltrators are covert agents like Slayers, Shadows and a great many N7 personnel and all their records are sealed."

    She extended her hand to Kenzi and shook it firmly, smiling up at the taller woman. "It's nice to meet you Kenzi. Head to the XO's quarters on deck 3 to get settled in and then report to the C.I.C when you're ready. We're going to arrive at Eden Prime's orbit in just over an hour and I want you to see to it that we safely land. I'll be in my cabin on deck 1 if you need anything. Dismissed."

    After another salute Alice had the marines stand down and marched over to the lift. Now maybe she could get a moment's peace to check her messages.

    Which was good because when she got upstairs to her cabin, an identical one to her mother's on the Normandy, and opened her terminal there were four of them waiting for her. The first was from her mother wishing her luck and asking for a comm call when she had some time. That was sweet and Alice wrote a quick reply saying she'd call whenever she felt she could be off duty, knowing her mother would understand. The second was from Aethyta notifying her of the XO's quarters status as a temporary galley and that everything would be moved to the proper kitchen in the mess hall as soon as possible. Alice didn't feel any need to reply, knowing that Aethyta would get it done. The third was a forwarded newsletter for a gaming website that she was no longer interested in. She deleted the message without reading it. The fourth message shook things up. It was from Artemis, her new asari huntress. Alice was very interested in this and opened the message.

    Dear Commander Alice,

    I would first like to take this chance to thank you for accepting me onto your crew. It may not be obvious but I feel this may have been a last minute political move. Please note that this will not change the fact that I am here to fight for you and everyone under your command. But I also have a request to make of you. I would like to have all information I can on the Urdnot Wrex incident. This would mean dossiers on the assassins, details about the circumstances leading up to the attempted assassination, and any information you would deem important. This is completely a personal request and I understand if you turn me down. I just have many half formed questions that I feel I need to find answers for.

    Ae’Raya Arreto, N7/ N8 Call Sign: Artemis

    P.S. Off the record, you are just so adorable, though you probably could have waited to ask your mom how you did ; )

    Alice appreciated the asari's thanks and wasn't surprised that she wanted to know about the people that tried to kill her Uncle Urdnot. She wanted to know more herself and C-Sec was in no hurry to fill her in. Even her father could only tell her so much. She understood that and so she didn't press the issue very far. She was just happy that Wrex was okay and that they were given the chance to go after Cerberus. She saw no reason to hide what she did know. Everyone on this ship needed to understand their enemy. Especially an asari huntress, who probably thought of Cerberus as less of an enemy and more as prey to be hunted. Alice wrote a reply over the next few minutes and read it over before sending it.

    Artemis

    I appreciate your thanks but they're really not necessary. The asari have a right to send a representative on this mission and you're an excellent choice. Yes it's a political move but I don't think it's an underhanded one. Councilor Tevos wants to show that your people are committed to this mission and sending you is an undeniable way of doing so. Really, you should feel honored. I certainly do. I trust you to do your job. Don't worry about that.

    As for the circumstances around Wrex's failed assassination, I'm afraid I don't know as much as I'd like to. All I really know for sure is that the assassins were definitely Cerberus and they came prepared for a fight. Wrex was supposed to be taken down by a sniper but was able to sniff out the ambush, get the sniper to reveal her position by firing into a crowd, then close in and kill her. It was a Nemesis agent that targeted him, the same agents from the Reaper War. Somehow Cerberus was able to aquire a C-Sec shuttle and use it to deploy a squad of centurions and pin down Wrex. He was able to fight through them. Then two Phantoms tried to strike from the shadows but Urdnot Grunt had arrived to help, along with Urdnot Bakara. The Phantoms wounded Wrex but were ultimately killed. Apparently there was an entire backup team for all of this that had C-Sec tied down. It was ten minutes before they could bring Wrex into protective custody. On paper it was a perfect plan. A lot like when CAT-6 targeted my mother during the Reaper War while the Normandy was on shore leave.

    I don't like how close they got and how behind C-Sec was. I thought we were past all this! I'm worried about all this and honestly that kind of stealth and power scares me. I'm not sure there's much I could do if Cerberus wanted to target my parents or this ship. Please keep this between us okay?

    And thank you so much! :D You really seem nice and I'd love to get to know you better. Your armor's really cute by the way and I love your hat! Did you get it from Earth?! And yeah, I guess I should have waited to talk to mom, haha. Guess everybody saw that. Oops, I guess. Anyway, meet me in the mess hall when you're off duty if you want.

    Alice

    With that she hit send and decided she fancied a nap. She changed into her footy pajamas and got into bed, which was much softer than any other she had slept in while on a warship. Hopefully she could get an hour in before something drastic happened.
     
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