Thanks for all the love guys, really means a lot and the hype you guys have generated for the coming chapters with a lot of crazy shit involved.

Now, we are entering the two year gap in between with a lot more freedom to shape ME2 when we get to it. Lot of reminders that we also need to speak of.

First of all, we're dealing with canon divergence and AU. What does that mean? Well it should be obvious. Things won't always go the way one would expect it to. Rather than one Spartan taking on the ME universe, we have six on top of the Spirit of Fire crew that are operating in the background. That means certain events won't play out as they did in the game or they won't happen at all.

I understand that some may find Spartans saving alien civilians to be strange but this is a different universe first and second, they need to build good will. Much as they can be hesitant, it is better that they do perform these actions of heroism to gain good will so they can operate with more leeway in the future.

Another thing, BSX and I made it clear that Forge has undergone specific surgery and augmentations by Cerberus. He does have advanced healing and such and his body has had some enhancements here and there, thus making him a step above the average human even highly trained ODST's. HOWEVER, in the previous chapters after Forge was found, BSX and I made it very clear that Forge is NOT and NOWHERE NEAR the level of the Spartans.

Also, just a reminder but there will be romances in the future because I LIKE THEM. When they're executed properly that is. Good romances come over time or when it makes sense that two individuals would just "click". With that being said, I would also like to remind everyone that the romances ARE NOT THE FOCAL POINT OF THIS STORY. A lot seemed to get that idea but that's not gonna be the main focus. The only reason there's gonna be romance in this story is A. I'm a sap and sucker for it, B. I believe the Spartans deserve happiness after everything they've done and C. This is the ME universe. Some of the best time spent on gameplay is the romance you develop with a lady or man of your choosing.

I hate that I have to constantly do this but this will be the last time until I get annoyed again.

Now then, with all that out of the way, it's high time we begin the two year gap that will change the course of ME2 and ME3.

Oh, and when it comes to other Halo stuff coming into the ME universe, trust me when I say this. BulletStormX and I have some very, VERY, VERY special plans that I believe will blow your expectations out of the water.

Until then.

Rate Read and Review and as Always Have Nice Day.

Spirit Unto Dawn Chapter 11: We've got a lot of work to do

Arcturus Station

It was rather strange for the crew of the Normandy SR-1.

A week or so had passed since the battle at the Citadel and the death of Saren Arterius. There were several underlying thoughts and trepidation of the team coming to an end with them dispersing.

Yet, none of the sort. The exact opposite actually.

Currently, the Normandy was docked with an Alliance station to refuel and resupply for their long term upcoming mission that they were assigned by Anderson and Hackett.

Before they get to that however...

In a private room, a ceremony is being held for the three Alliance soldiers that served onboard with Commander Michael Shepard and his ragtag crew that helped stop Saren and Sovereign.

Michael and Jane stood back with Liara, Tali, Garrus and Wrex as they watched their three comrades and friends receive their rewards and commendation for bravery and actions beyond their call of duty. Liara and Michael stood closely together, hands intertwined whilst Jane had her elbow propped up on her brothers shoulder

"Kaiden Alenko, please step forward." Admiral Hackett said as the Lieutenant stepped up to stand before the Admiral while Williams and Jenkins remained at attention.

Hackett held out a medal as well as two pins.

"Your actions in aiding Commander Shepard, from stopping Saren and the Geth showed the exemplary meaning of an Alliance soldier. You and private Jenkins were willing to sacrifice your own lives to see a mission through. Willing to make the bigger sacrifice for the sake of saving the galaxy from Sovereign." Kaidan raised his chin slightly with his face completely serious. "I hereby promote you to Staff Commander."

He placed the medallion as well as the pins of his new rank upon Alenko with the newly promoted Alliance soldier saluting him and stepping back.

Hackett then turned to the next soldier. "Ashley Williams, please step forward."

The sergeant now took Kaidan's spot before Hackett who gave her a solemn look.

"You've endured a greater ordeal then most on this mission. From being the sole survivor of the 212th on Eden Prime to risking your own life to set off nuke on Virmire shows the sheer relentless determination of the Alliance as a whole." Hackett patted her shoulder with a small praising smile. "Your grandfather would be proud of how far the Williams has come. I promote you to Operations Chief."

At the mention of her grandfather, her eyes glazed over, blinking in hopes of preventing tears from flowing, saluting the admiral with a silent thank you.

Now, all that was left was...

"Richard L. Jenkins, please step forward."

The young Alliance soldier was completely rigid, eyes straight ahead and posture at attention.

"You've done quite a lot in your short career as an Alliance marine. Fresh off of being a private to Corporal, being assigned to the newest state of the art Alliance vessel shows highly of your skills as a soldier wanting to prove his worth. Despite your homeworld, Eden Prime being the starting point of all these events, you didn't let that distract you and continue aiding Commander Shepard in stopping Saren and in just a short amount of time. Your zeal and focus on top of your dedication to your duty first shows that the Alliance has a bright future with men such as yourself willing to go beyond what is asked of you. Congratulations Sergeant Jenkins. You've earned it."

"Thank you sir." Jenkins said in complete respect as he received his newest rank.

Michael couldn't help but grin at the sight of his teammates and friends that had received such promotions and commendations.

Everyone clapped in appreciation for their friends getting this achievement.

The trio were congratulated by the rest, backs clapped, small hugs around and such with Jenkins being a jittery mess as he spoke animatedly with Garrus and Tali about his promotion.

"Michael?"

The Commander looked over to Hackett who gestured his head to the side.

"A word."

Michael nodded, walking over slightly out of earshot from the others.

"Congratulations on your promotion Admiral." Shepard said straight away with an uncharacteristic grunt of annoyance out of the Navy Admiral.

"I wish I felt that sentiment if only I knew the amount of paperwork I was getting myself into then I would have refused." Hackett grumbled out, making Shepard chuckle. "Laugh all you want. Just wait till you deal with it."

"I'll try to hold you to that."

Hackett sighed. "Besides that, there are some things I have to bring up. First, me and Anderson have put in your sister as a Spectre candidate."

Michael blinked at that tidbit. He looked over to his sister who was speaking with Wrex and Kaidan at the moment.

"Are you sure about that?" Michael asked with an unsure tone in his voice.

"Right now it's being reviewed by humanity's newest councilor so it will be awhile before a decision is made." Hackett said placatingly. "I just wanted to let you know."

Michael frowned, still having mixed feelings about this. "Why now? Why her?"

"Aside from the fact that she's the sister of the Spectre who took down Saren, she also took part in aiding the mission. Jane, like yourself, gained her own reputation and rank through efforts and unrelenting determination. Having humans like the two of you as Spectres will allow the rest of the galaxy to accept humanity's new position in power within the Citadel." Hackett elaborated. "We're still new within the galactic stage and many still look at us with a wary eye due to how aggressively and quickly we attained a spot on the Council.'

Shepard had to concede, that did make sense all things considered.

"What else is there?" Shepard asked, knowing these types of conversations to be longer.

"The status of the Alliance fleet."

"The Alliance Fleet?" Shepard repeated in concern. "Why? What's wrong with it?"

"Sovereign left our fleet we sent in to aid the Citadel in shambles. Because of this, Batarian pirates and slavers are taking advantage. I had to suspend Cerberus operations for the moment to pick up the slack in our security." Hackett's tone was grim. "It's gonna take time to rebuild the fifth fleet as well as strengthening the others. With us having a seat on the council, we're taking full advantage of the greater liberties that we can now have. Dreadnoughts to be built as well converting some of our carriers into dreadnoughts themselves. We're not taking any more chances."

"Sounds like you're busy."

"We all are." Hackett said plainly.

"What about Anderson?" Michael asked.

"I sent him to try and locate those Spartans that have been making just as much noise as you all have." Hackett answered. "Though, finding them seems to be… difficult."

"How does the rest of the Alliance feel about Sovereign and the Reapers? Are they taking this seriously?

"Split." Hackett stated. "Some are taking it very seriously, having heard of your reputation and believing you to be a man of your word. Helps that you have myself and Anderson backing your words. A lot more are either skeptical or in denial. The thought of an AI threat bordering the edges of our galaxy with the intent of wiping out all sentient life. Let's just say existentialism is the lightest case possible of how some would react. Others are in the middle. Unsure of who or what to trust on that matter."

"What else do they want; they saw a Reaper attacking a Citadel. Isn't that enough proof?" Shepard asked in exasperation.

"That was only one ship, Shepard." Hackett reminded. "One ship leading a fleet of Geth Ships. For all they believe, it may as well have been a Geth super ship of some kind."

Michael chewed the inside of his cheek, realizing that Hackett's words held merit. Really, it was only him and his crew that actively went after this information with not much help at times.

For intents and purposes, it would make sense that most would just chalk it up the Geth. there were more Geth ships then there was the one Reaper ship.

"What do you need me to do now?" Michael asked after a moment of silence.

"For the time being, your crew earned some well-deserved shore leave. I suggest you take advantage of it. You and your crew have been through enough as it is." Hackett said with his tone brokering no arguments. "Right now, some R&R will do you some good cause you and the rest are gonna be busy."

Michael sighed in resignation, knowing this to be an all to true reality.

"I appreciate it, Admiral." Shepard said earnestly.

"Take care, Michael. Until we meet again."

Hackett departed with Liara going over to Michael, interlacing her hand with his.

"Everything alright?" She asked with concern.

Michael only gave his girlfriend and lover a small smile, gently squeezing her hand.

"Yeah, we got some shore leave. Which means we can relax for a while."

"Shore leave?" Jenkins perked up. "Sweet. I can call up a few of the guys from boot and show off how little Jenkins is now a sergeant."

He was slapped upside the head by Ashley who gave him a flat look.

"Yeah, make sure to remind them of the ass injury you got."

"Oh for the love of- that was just one time!" Jenkins bemoaned. "Just once and now you guys are never gonna let me live it down."

"One time is all that we need, ass disaster." Garrus remarked, making the others laugh aloud at the nickname.

"You guys all suck, so much."

"Still, some shore leave sounds nice." Kaidan stated. "Could use some time to take a break after all this crazy shit."

"Agreed." Jane said, stretching her arms with the satisfying sounds of pops and cracks of her bones. "What else Admiral Hackett talk to you about?"

Michael grimaced. "After the shore leave, I can hazard a guess as to what's gonna be keeping us busy. Turns out that the Batarians and other Slavers are taking advantage of our momentary "weakness" and judging from what Hackett said, the Alliance has been having some run-ins with the Batarians."

"Great." Ashley said flatly. "Just one week and they already think that they could just walk all over humanity again."

Shepard only mutely nodded in agreement; eyes hard in thought. Something Tali picked up on.

"What else did Admiral Hackett talk to you about?" The Quarian asked curiously.

"He mentioned the Spartans." Michael said, making all present blink. "Apparently, Anderson is trying to find a means of locating them. Though-"

"That'll be easier said than done." Garrus drawled. "They seem to appear when they want to."

"Can't argue that." Wrex rumbled.

Tali hummed aloud. "Wonder what they're up to right now?"

-Scene Cut-

Autumn, UNSC Command Room

The hallways are filled with chatter as Captain Cutter is making his way to the Command center. Dot informed him that the Spartans have returned and Cortana wishes for every high ranking personnel to meet at once. She has information that is top priority.

Cutter thought back to the now awakened Sergeant. Having to explain the SOF going cryo for twenty two years to find out the war is over and ending up in another universe entirely and having to explain Cerberus experimenting on him in a coma which resulted in him becoming a semi-super soldier.

Needless to say Forge reactions are varied. Sad that Serina is gone, glad that the war was over and won and peeved he wasn't there to see it to the end.

It was quite amusing to see such a string of emotions and reactions all within the span of a few minutes.

Now, the Captain is followed by Anders and Forge who the Professor thinks should still be in bed recovering but Cutter allows it, seeing that Forge is okay and not doing anything too strained to his body.

Besides, knowing Forge, he would have snuck off the minute Anders turned away from him. Better he be under the watchful eye of the Professor then going off on his own.

"What's going on Captain? I've only been awake for two hours and something is already going on." Forge remarked.

"Cortana has apparently gained some knowledge that needs to be shared with all of us it seems." Cutter said plainly.

"Cortana?" Forge muttered. "Oh right, that new AI that's been helping run things around here."

"Don't forget about Dot." Cutter reminded. "Having two AI, especially two that come from the tail end of the war means we've got the latest and best models at our disposal. They'll make Serena proud."

The trio arrive at the command center to find it packed with all high ranking personnel and standouts are the Spartans and the two Geths.

Everyone heads to see the Captain and Professor walk in but what's more surprising is the Sergeant Forge is back on his feet again.

It was a pleasant surprise to say the least. Many were happy to see the Sergeant up again and Red Team silently nodding to Forge in their own way that they were glad to see him alive and well. Forge simply grinned in their direction, glad himself that they had survived and he could see them again.

As for the other three who haven't met him, they gave the famed Forge a nod of respect. It was heartening to see another hero who had sacrificed his own life for the war is alive and well.

Now that everyone was gathered, Captain Cutter stood within the center of the Command center with the holo deck lighting up.

"Cortana, can you explain why it is that everyone is needed here and that it is top priority?" Cutter said aloud with the UNSC AI appearing in the center of the holodeck, expanding to human size a moment later.

Her face was completely serious, not at all like the usual playful and lighthearted demeanor she would usually sport.

Chief, who has basically been her partner for the duration of the end of the covenant war was immediately on edge. Whatever it was she found on the Citadel was certainly making her far more tense than usual.

"You're gonna want to listen to this one Captain, the information will decide the fate of this galaxy and what you will decide to do."

To say that comment was off putting would be putting it mildly.

"That's one way to start up a meeting." Forge muttered under his breath.

Cortana started by recounting what had happened on the Citadel with footage to accommodate her speech, using both the Spartans headcam and cameras all over the Citadel.

Most were a bit unsure of what to make of the footage seeing the Reaper Sovereign firsthand. Some remarked with the resemblance to squid like creatures from earth while a select few made a few jokes of praises unto Cthulhu.

She went on to reveal that while she was within the DataStream of the Citadel, she stumbled upon a VI or in their words, dumb AI of sorts. It was Prothean backup VI who had storage of data locked away in case of another VI Vigil failing to properly inform the denizen of the galaxy about the Reapers.

Once she got the information, Cortana got to work deciphering and scrolling through the information. And what she found is unpleasant.

She displayed all the known species that were found in this galaxy, humans being among them and had them all connected to the Relays and "Element Zero".

Cortana explained that she compared history and notes on technology the denizens of the galaxy used. She did not like what the evidence was pointing towards… all the races used the same tech before discovering the others, the space travel system the mass effect relays are based on this technology was fast but limited… and made invasion of a weaker species extremely easy to do. The Turians client races could attest to that.

The element zero Technology, the Citadel, the Mass Relays… all were far too convenient for her liking. The archeological discovery of ruins on planets in fifty thousand year increments, did nothing to help ease her mind… she pulled the Geth file on the old machines and the Protheans out and compared notes… all the puzzle pieces fit together to form an extremely ugly picture… not as horrible as the flood or the halo array, but it was still just as bad.

They had ended up in an alternate Universe, right before the "wheat" was brought into harvest, the "Wheat" being galactic civilization. The technology that was so convenient was a Trap of epic proportions… and these "Old Machines" called reapers by the Prothean archives the Geth had decoded, were the farmers who reaped it.

These "Reapers" had the ability to influence organic minds according to the Geth, which would explain a lot of the citadel's laws and past choices.

The Quarians were too technologically advanced and were considered a threat so the reapers influenced the citadel to Ban AI and outcast Quarians during the Geth crisis. Had they not, the Quarians and Geth would have had a much more different relationship.

The Krogan were too warlike, stubborn, powerful and numerous, so the reapers overseeing the cycle influenced their fall from grace, using the genophage as a way to keep the Krogan down and a non-threat to the upcoming harvest… the same went for the Rachni.

Geth files stated that the Rachni queens resisted the reaper's influence, so the reapers used the impressionable hatchlings and worker drones to cause war, and eventual Rachni extinction; at least they were supposedly extinct, so the Geth thought some might have survived.

The Reapers used deep vibrating subsonic sound frequencies to subtly manipulate and indoctrinate organics. It's a similar process to how Mgalekgo species who are masters at manipulating and hearing subsonic sounds, use them for communication with one another.

The next topic was of the Reapers Ground troops that the Spartans had encountered on the Citadel, the Husks. None of the gathered individuals particularly liked this piece of new information. The Reapers converted organics via technology to become hordes of undead like techno-organic abominations.

This was too much of a reminder of the Flood just downplayed slightly. Thankfully, the Reapers husk conversion process was very much more time consuming… and only seemed to work best with dead bodies. Unlike the Flood which could assimilate both living and dead in a matter of seconds; the fact that the Reapers were less capable made all present mentally sigh in relief.

Right now, the Reaper threat was on the fringes of the galaxy but the arrival of Sovereign means that they will be coming very soon.

Cortana wrapped up the information she presented and everyone in the room, even the two Geth are quiet. Processing what they just heard was rather… surreal in a way. From one galaxy on the edge of extinction to another.

"This is what Commander Shepard and his crew we're trying to stop Saren and Sovereign for, to prevent the Reapers coming and continuing the Cycle."

To Captain Cutter recalling the voice recording from the Virmire mission and it all made sense now. The Cycle, it meant the Reapers will harvest all known life in the galaxy.

Anders was the first to break silence

"Captain, this is a bit hard to swallow. I thought our focus was finding the means of getting home."

"I'm with the lady on this one Captain." Forge agreeing with Anders. "I thought we were done with galactic threats. Didn't you tell me that Master Chief Spartan already dealt with it twice back home?"

Several of the Spartans snorted silently at the Sergeants comments with a small wry smile beneath John's helmet.

"Well, that's what we're dealing with right now as is." Cortana said. "Don't know when we'll find a way to get home but until that time, these guys are gonna be hovering over our heads till they come in force."

"What can we do Cortana?" Cutter asked after a moment of silence.

This was certainly a surprise to say the least. Many were quick to voice their disagreement with such a notion.

"Captain, I mean no disrespect or anything but why bother getting ourselves involved with this galaxy when we should be focusing on getting home. We don't owe the people of this galaxy anything."

"Why waste our resources on a fight that isn't ours to begin with. I want to go home as soon as we can."

"That means we have to work with these aliens."

"Work with aliens?"

"Can we work with them?"

"I'd rather we do this alone."

"Don't know. Those blue ones look friendly enough."

A loud thud was heard silencing everyone when Cutter loudly smacked his hands on the holotable to get everyone quiet.

He gave a dry stare towards the one who made that last comment before turning to the two mobile AI within the room.

"Legion, Red. How is the Consensus taking this?"

Red's fins moved about as its optic went from Cortana, to the display of the Reaper ship and Cutter.

"We now know the truth of our war." Red said, synthetic tone almost solemn. "We understand the cause of our creators turning on us and Nazara's purpose in contacting the Consensus. We will work to undo the damage that was done. When the time comes, we will stand against the Reapers."

Cortana couldn't help but beam at Red, Cutter smirking slightly.

"Well we know where our allies stand." Cutter stated.

"Sir?" Anders spoke up. "Are you sure about this?"

"About?"

Anders gave him an unamused looked. "This. this whole notion of taking on these Reapers. This isn't our galaxy. Why bother with all this?"

Cutter didn't answer at first, opting to remain silent for a brief moment.

An officer then raised his hand.

"Officer Blake, have something to say?"

"Captain, if we do this, what chance do we really have? We're up against an untold number of these… Reapers just waiting outside the galaxy. And all we got is one old ship, a covenant corvette and half of the crew to staff her. Do we really have to get involved in a war and galaxy that is not our own? Why now take the chance to leave sir while we still can?"

Cutter regarded officer Blake, looking to the rest of the assembled high ranking officials of the Spirit of Fire with a steely gaze in his eyes.

"Twenty-two years." Cutter began. "That's how long we've been out of the fight. 22 long years of all of us just sleeping comfortably in our pods while the rest of humanity fought tooth and nail to hold back the Covenant. We lost two decades of service to humanity."

Cutter leaned against the holodeck, expression grim.

"We didn't ask to come here. Hell, none of us even understand how it happened. But we're here now. Here in a galaxy at the cusp of entering into a war for survival. A war to hold back the oncoming tidal wave of extinction. Sound familiar?"

Without knowing this, Cortana has discreetly begun to project the Captains speech to the entirety of the Fire crew. Many had stopped in what they were doing to listen to the words of their leader.

"We are just one ship. And an old one at that, upgraded as it may be by this point. But here we are… twenty-two years past what anyone could ask of us."

Many now stood, listening to his speech.

"The lives we had are gone. The worlds we knew.. have moved on. And now all that we may have left are those standing beside us... And the DUTY that defines us battle after battle, fighting side by side."

Cutter looks at Officer Blake with a commanding gaze.

"Together. Where you see half of a crew, Officer Blake... I see family, courage. And a thousand heroes who swore to fight their way through hell before they'd ever...EVER turn their backs and run. And where you see one old ship, I see home. So I ask all of you, this one question. Are you all willing to stand by and watch humanity and the entire galaxy of innocent life die before your very eyes? Knowing you had the capacity to help?"

The resounding "No" was heard well outside the Command Center.

"Then we have our answer. We will do what we were unable to back home. We are gonna go through hell and high water and prepare for the fight of our lives. Save humanity and all those who would ally with them for a tomorrow that we can attain. And that is always worth fighting for."

Cutter smacks the table. The entire base is brought up to Red Alert status.

Immediately, people began running about, getting to their stations as their mission was now clear.

Prepare for war.

Officer Blake smiled, knowing what the Captain's answer is and reported back to his station with the rest of the officers all departing from the command center.

There was a loud guffaw from behind, Cutter turning back with an expectant look directed towards his sergeant.

"You couldn't have said it better, Captain." Forge applauded jokingly. "Always did have a way with words."

"What's wrong, Forge? My speech not up to snuff with your mediocre standards?"

"Mediocre?" Forge said in a false-affronted manner. "I'll have you know that they're slightly above sub-par."

"Well, I liked it." Cortana said approvingly. "That's a helluva motivator, Captain."

"Thank you, Cortana." Cutter said appreciatively. "It's a pleasure to know that someone here appreciates my talents."

Forge only snorted aloud, Anders rolling her eyes before looking at Cutter.

"Captain, I appreciate a good rousing speech as much as the next person. But what's the plan?" She asked. "Once we start this fight, we have no way of calling help if we need it from back home."

"The Professor is right sir. What should our first move be?" Jerome questions the Captain, Cutter already having a plan in mind.

"First, we're going to tie up some loose ends." Cutter declared. "The Batarians. Noble Six started this mission and we're going to finish it. As Cortana previously reported, the Batarian pirates and slavers are on the move again. Spartans: you will continue your efforts until we have a way to get in contact with the Anti Slave faction that's been on the rise."

"We would like to continue our aid in these endeavors." Legion spoke up, several of the Spartans nodding in agreement.

"What about the Heretics then?" Jorge inquired.

"When the time comes, we will deal with them." Legion answered. "But for now they seem to be scattered at the moment. The loss of Saren and Sovereign has left them leaderless for the time being."

"We shall continue to monitor their activity." Red added.

Cutter gave a hum of approval. "While you Spartans are out hunting, we will begin building up our arms and deploy our forces at any given moment if needed."

"If our Spartans are gonna be conducting these long term missions, they'll need the Ardent Prayer." Cortana stated, looking to the six super-soldiers. "You guys are gonna need it in the long haul. Stock up on anything you need from the Armory and if by any chance you come across the Commander Shepard and his crew. Extend the invitation that we're on their side and we will approach them soon. And remember to use more than ten words in every sentence."

The Spartans only shook their heads, knowing that it's applicable to all of them when it comes to speaking with people that weren't superior officers or other Spartans.

"Whelp, guess it's time I get to it as well." Forge remarked, getting up to join with the rest of the active crew.

Just as Forge was about to leave, a hand grabbed his shoulder.

"Oh no you don't, sergeant, I have a test that I need you to conduct if you want to report back for duty." Anders said with a sharp tone.

"Captain do I have too? I mean look at me. Do I look like I need testing?" Forge asked with a gruff tone.

Cutter only shrugged, without an ounce of sympathy. "Sorry sergeant, but this is a situation I cannot help you with. Besides, I like to know what you're capable of now having augmentation."

The Xenobiologist held a triumphant look, turning to the Spartans a moment later.

"Jerome, Six. I'm gonna need to borrow you two for a bit."

The two Spartans looked to Cutter for confirmation with a nod from the Captain; they followed Anders, who's dragging the semi-super soldier out with her to conduct a test.

The rest of the Spartans were dismissed with Legion following after them. Red went off to continue monitoring Heretic movements while also contacting the Consensus on further plans..

Cutter looked at the Holotable to still see Cortana not dematerializing.

"Do you have anything else to say Cortana?" Cutter asked expectantly.

Cortana nodded, bringing up the Citadel station. "Yes I do Captain and it's something you'll very much like to see."

"Alright, what is it?"

"When I was in the Citadel Systems, I managed to get access to every single name that has ever registered on the Citadel." Multiple lists began appearing around her.

"Meaning?"

"Meaning that we can start searching for people who believe in the coming Reaper threat." Cortana said confidently, making Cutter frown.

"I don't know about this Cortana," Cutter stated. You're talking about bringing in unknowns to our base."

Cortana sighed, expecting this answer.

"I know, Captain Cutter, believe me I do. But, if we're gonna do this, then we're gonna need all the help we can get to take on the Reapers. Just think about it. Soldiers, Doctors, Scientists, Bounty Hunters, Mercenaries, and you name it. We have the entire galaxy populace at our disposal and people who are willing to fight." Cortana said. "And above all else, this is their galaxy first, not ours. Much as we can do in working to build up strength to combat the Reapers, we're gonna need the help of anyone and everyone that is ready to take up arms against the oncoming threat."

Cutter crossed his arms, deep in thought on the matter.

"Besides, we already have a ship full of people that took on a reaper head on and their leader is sure as hell that everyone is gonna be needed for the eventual return of the Reapers."

With that final argument, Cutter couldn't really think of a specific reason against it other than standard UNSC procedures and protocol. Procedures and protocol that only exist because they are here and are the only thing they have as a structure to follow other than what they have with the Spirit of Fire.

With a reluctant sigh, Cutter conceded to Cortana's point. "Alright, where do we start?"

The AI only beamed happily.

"I've already compiled a list and narrowed down some of the candidates, all I need is your approval."

A list of names along with photos, species, occupations and so on began appearing before Cutter who held a grim expression.

"This is gonna be a long day." He said to himself, picking out the first file and getting to work.

Office of Naval Intelligence (civilian consultant) Professor Ellen Anders SN: CC-500493 Star Log: Entry number 124

It's been some time now since arriving in this new universe and I'm glad that my expertise in Xenobiology is being expanded upon here.

I have learned much about all the alien races here and their cultures with much more to discover it seems. There's too much for me to study.

There may be an existential extinction level threat just on the fringes of this galaxy but at the very least, there's still time to prepare as well as learn.

In the meantime however, I've recently wrapped up conducting a test on Sergeant Forge. And I must say the results are astounding.

First are the standard rehabilitation tests such as arm, leg, and eye movements. Then we moved on to exercise and he crushed his previous records. We then brought in a Marine, ODST, and Spartans to do a comparison test to see how Forge stacks up.

Forge vs Marine: 10:5

Assemble/disassemble weapons: 8:5

Exercise: 10:4

Obstacle courses: 10:3

Firing Range(Accuracy, and quickdraws): 10:1

Hand to Hand combat: 9:3

No surprise for the most part in regard to these results. Sergeant John Forge was always an exceptional and standout marine even with his track record not reflecting this matter.

Having a common marine, skilled as he may be, go up against a newly augmented Forge would have resulted in similar results had he not been augmented though at a lower scale perhaps.

Forge vs ODST: 10:7

Assemble/disassemble weapons: 8:6

Exercise: 10:7

Obstacle courses: 10:5

Firing Range(Accuracy, and quickdraws): 10:4

Hand to Hand combat: 8:5

It appears that the ODST's, especially some of the more well trained and experienced fighters appeared more than capable at keeping up with Sergeant Forge at times. There were several instances where the ODST's truly showed their worth and training by best Forge on those occasions yet it appears that Forge is just as fast a learner as he is a talker.

He adapted quickly and capitalized on his losses in following rounds and tests yet the ODST's were not so easily beaten. Their near suicidal and indomitable training clashed well with Forge's stubborn hardheaded attitude. I caught Forge remarking how much he enjoyed taking on the ODST's as he felt himself get truly pushed to his absolute limit.

On a side note, in a shocking display of resilience; during the training session of hand-to-hand combat, one of punches Forge delivered to the ribs of an ODST had broken it yet the Shock trooper fought on until he began complaining about having problems breathing. It turned out that the rib punctured a lung and the ODST was sent to the medbay to be taken care of.

Frankly, these ODST's are just as bullheaded and suicidally stubborn as Sergeant Forge. No wonder they appear to get along so well.

Forge vs Spartan II/III: 1:9

Assemble/disassemble weapons: 2:10

Exercise: 3:10

Obstacle courses: 3:10

Firing Range(Accuracy, and quickdraws): 2:10

Hand to Hand combat: 2:10

It appears that whilst Forge has garnered significant enhancements of his own, the Spartans have still proven to be the peak of the super soldiers we have upon the fire.

Tried as he might, The Spartans were too well trained and augmented for Forge to even have a chance. Their machine-like accuracy, precision and strength is simply far above what Forge has. Though he has been on ice for some time, Commander Jerome has proven to be just as able to keep up with his contemporary Noble Six that has been engaged in warfare for just as long as he had when the war started.

Multiple times, I could tell the Spartans were holding back for the most part with Forge begrudgingly admitting to himself and me privately that had they not, he would have been defeated on every occasion.

On the times they did display their full capabilities, Forge was hard pressed to even make an attempt at competing with them.

I had heard many rumors about the Spartans during my time in ONI, even as a "Civilian Consultant". How much they were tied with… that woman.

Though I have never gone into what exactly the Spartans were or where they came from, I was able to at least learn of their purpose and the fact that they were augmented to superhuman levels.

Their showings speak for themselves. And speaking of super-soldiers.

The results conducted from the tests on Sergeant Forge show what Cerberus is capable of with augmentation. I just hope the Alliance put a dent into their operations. We don't need any more super-soldiers going around causing troubles as it is.

I have learned a lot from the data files Cortana and Dot that they had extracted from Cerberus about other projects and such on the matter of enhancements. But some of them have been rather… disconcerting to say the least.

I'd rather not delve into it until I have a clearer image on what exactly all these enhancements are for.

Currently, the only known "Super-soldier" or should I say "Enhanced Perfect Human Being" under Cerberus rule is the woman known as Miranda Lawson. Comes from her background with her father it seems.

Oh… I'm getting off topic again.

All there is left to say is that Forge's tests are done and I look forward to seeing his performance on the field when the time comes.

And it seems one of my projects is ready to begin its starting phases. Looks like this is it for now until more follows.

Professor Ellen Anders logging out

Days later.

Professor Anders Laboratory

To say the Spirit of Fire's crew had been busy from the time Cutter declared the red alert would be an understatement.

Non-stop training drills from the beginning to bolster weaponry and vehicles from both UNSC and Covenant dominated the majority of their time overall on the planet of Autumn.

The Spartans departed as soon Jerome and Six finished conducting tests for Professor Anders once she was satisfied with the results. As for the sergeant, he left to grab some chow seeing it's been literally twenty two years since he last had a good meal.

He deserved that much. Afterwards he went to work on seeing and upgrading his Grizzly tanks.

Currently, Captain Cutter and Sergeant Forge once again stood in the laboratory with them being called by the Professor to meet them here.

"So what is it this time, Captain?" Forge inquired, crossing his arms. "I swear if it's to conduct another one of those tests then I'm bailing out."

Cutter only stood firm.

"Come now, Sergeant." Cutter said calmly. "If I'm here with you, I'm confident we could rule that option out."

The doors to the lab opened and Anders walked right past the two to her workstation, activating the holodeck.

"Sorry to keep you two waiting, I was checking on my other work and have got something to show the both of you. I believe it will be pivotal in our efforts here within this universe against the Reapers."

She brought up multiple Cerberus stations and facilities along with a particular resource that they have a massive bulk of at the moment.

"As you know, months ago Noble Six and Legion began conducting raids upon Cerberus research facilities across the galaxy. During said raids, Dot had discovered that this organization was creating a powerful virus that is able to infiltrate into any military defense network without notice and take complete control of it from the inside. It is called Celerium. Since then, Noble Six provided the data sample for me to use and I must say I was impressed with the leveling of coding Cerberus was able to cook up."

"And all of this matters because…?" Cutter awaited her answer.

"Because I was able to use this data as a template to create a brand new smart AI." Anders revealed, momentarily stunning the two before her.

Cutter blinked, gathering his wits about him. "How is this possible, Professor?"

"Yeah, I ain't no egghead but I sure as hell know that maken an AI be it Smart or Dumb ain't no easy feat." Forge commented.

Anders nodded in the marines' direction.

"For the most part, you are absolutely correct. Making a UNSC AI is usually difficult with specific circumstances. A dumb AI is much more easier with it being coding and simple routines and functions implemented." Anders explained. "Smart AI however are trickier due to them being copies of a human brain. But with the Celerium that Noble Six and Legion have acquired overtime, Cortana and I have made a work around. To put it simply, the Celerium was the groundwork and with Cortana's notes on Doctor Halsey journal I was able to procure a brain from a dead ODST from Cryo. Using the brain with Celerium, Cortana and I were able to start creating a new AI under the name of Project Rising Sky."

Anders used a holotable to bring up a list of projects, scrolling through them names that caught Cutters and Forge attention such as Project Null, Project Vorto, Project Operimentum, Project Domum, and Project Integral. It finally landed on file Project Rising Sky.

"Project Rising Sky is what Cortana and I crafter to create a new Smart AI that will infiltrate even the best security that this galaxy has and go undetected." Anders said with a slight tinge of pride. "When I wasn't working on waking the Sergeant, me and Cortana worked on getting this AI running and putting him through simulation until he was ready."

"Him you say?" Cutter remarked.

"Yup, him. The AI identifies itself as a he. So given the name of the project we decided to name him, Atlas." Anders stated.

"Atlas?" Cutter repeated. "As in one of the Greek Titans if I recall from Greek Mythology."

"Correct, it's fitting since once he completes his trials. He will be taking a fragment of Cortana placed just like Atlas who held up the skies for eternity on the Citadel to essentially be our eyes and ears of the galaxy." Anders declared.

Forge gave her a strange look which made Anders pause in her little presentation.

"Wh-what?"

He scratched his chin while squinting his eyes at her. "I thought you didn't like AI? What was all that crap from before about harping on and on about them taking the spotlight when you wanted to work?"

Cutter actually chortled aloud with Anders' face lighting up, flustered at being called out in such a manner.

"I… yo-you… wha-what does….?" She stammered in embarrassment. "Wh-what does that have to do with the situation at hand?"

Forge only shrugged.

"Nothing, thought I'd just ask is all." Forge said casually. "Wonder what Serena would have said about all this."

"Th-that has nothing to do with the situation at hand." Anders said defensively, making Cutter smirk in amusement.

"Alright, Sergeant, you've had your fun. Leave the Professor be." He said, looking back at Anders. "So where is our newest friend?"

Giving one last annoyed look in the direction of Forge, she turned to the holodeck. "You can come out now."

Materializing from the holotable was a green AI dressed up in simple ODST gear, shoulders, chest piece, helmet and all.

"Spirit of Fire New Infiltration AI, serial number ATL 2517-8, designation Atlas reporting for duty sir." the AI saluted crisply, slightly surprising the two men before him.

"An ODST AI?" Forge remarked with clear interest. "Would have figured using the whole Greek name and all, you'd use a different look."

"He chose this look." Anders said plainly.

"I like the look and armor." Atlas declared with him raising his arms to flex. "Makes me look tough."

Forge laughed aloud at that proclamation. "I kinda like him."

Anders smirked. "That's good to hear, Forge. You won't have a problem introducing Atlas to everyone in the base then."

The Sergeant jolted at that sudden statement with Cutter nodding in approval.

"Agreed." Cutter said. "It'll keep you well enough out of action until needed. Get to it, Sergeant Forge. There's a lot of new faces for Atlas to meet."

Forge could only gape in disbelief as the Captain turned and left with Anders humming in amusement as she went back to work.

The enhanced marine looked down at Atlas, the holo-visor of his helmet staring up at the Sergeant with a patient air around him. He gave the human a two finger salute with Forge sighing in resignation.

"Alright little guy. Let's get to it."

"Little? I'm made up of countless data encryptions and functions." Atlas countered in an affronted manner. "In my eyes, you're the small one."

"Right, whatever you say pixie."

"Pixie?!"

-Scene Cut-

A couple days have passed since Atlas was brought online. With Sergeant Forge, Atlas was introduced to the personnel on the base, including Red. The Geth was certainly intrigued in meeting yet another new AI. Atlas was just as interested in the Geth and how they operate differently from what he understands from his lessons and studies under Cortana about the AI of this universe in comparison to the ones back home.

Back in the Command Center, everyone has been working nonstop in preparation for the coming days of the inevitable Reaper invasion. Though the likeliness of it coming seemed in the distance, the fact that they are there waiting for the time outside the galaxy was more than enough of a motivator.

They were also preparing and making space for apparent future allies that will be stationed on the base.

Captain Cutter announced days ago that they will open their base to allies who will be brought in to prepare them for the Reapers arrival. It was rather obvious that the personnel were hesitant to allow people or aliens within their new base due to protocol but after hearing from Cortana that the UNSC allowed Elite Separatist on Earth and UNSC bases, an exception will be made because they can't fight a war all on their own. Besides, this ain't even their own galaxy to begin with so having people familiar with territories and knowledge of events happening, they can be a huge asset to the Spirit of Fire.

Currently, Captain Cutter stood within the observation deck of the Spirit of Fire as he was speaking with Spartan-092 on his mission debriefing.

"Jerome, how is the mission proceeding?"

The Spartan stood at attention on the other end of the line, going over what he and the others had accomplished.

"The team made some headway. We've halted another attack on a human colony just before they could send the majority of their troops to the surface. Some did manage to land on the colony but it wasn't too much that we couldn't handle. The colonial defense forces were already waiting for them. The Alliance are certainly stepping up their defenses since Tasu."

James only hummed in thought on the matter of the Systems Alliance bolstering their defenses.

"Seems the Alliance is finally taking the Batarian Hegemony more seriously after so many colonies being raided. Though the attack force seems smaller from the last one." Cutter noted.

"The attacks as of late from my observation are starting to look more uncoordinated, weapons and equipment models are a downgrade then previous attacks sir." Jerome stated. "It appears that our mission on Tasu was a turning point. Cortana and Dot have notified us of the growing Anti-slave faction within Hegemony space."

"The Hegemony support for the Pirates and Slaver are losing steam." Cutter said confidently. "Without any profits coming in, the Pirates and Slavers are becoming desperate to get some form of income. It seems they believed the Alliance distracted being distracted would give them the chance to acquire more to make up the loss in income to get more support for future operations."

"At the rate we're going sir, it will only be a matter of time before the Hegemony have no choice but to cut ties with the Pirates and Slavers to focus their effort on consolidating their own defenses within Batarian space and focus their attention at their own doorstep."

Cutter nodded approvingly. "We'll soon bring the fight to them, Commander. In the meantime continue your efforts and destabilize the Pirates and Slavers."

"Will do sir, Jerome out."

After the transmission ends, Anders walks in with a data pad in hand and right behind her is Forge.

"Got anything for us Captain?" Forge asked straight away. "I'm getting bored waiting around for something to happen. Even the annoying lady is starting to get boring."

"Do you happen to want to conduct more tests then perhaps Sergeant?" Anders inquired with an annoyed tone. "Cause I'll gladly collect more data from my favorite new guinea pig."

Forge only grunted, crossing his arms while silently looking away. Anders only grinned cheekily at the jarhead.

"What can I do for you Professor?" Cutter inquired.

"Just happened to be passing by when I ran into the Sergeant on the way. Any luck on scouting for recruits, Captain?"

Cutter shook his head in the negative.

"Not even close. I've barely scratched the surface of candidates that Cortana recommended for me." Cutter held up his personal datapad. "I'm still sifting through who I could possibly allow on the base."

"Shit Captain." Forge remarked. "You still sure about asking those other aliens for help?"

"You should already know that this is going to be their fight as much as we took it upon ourselves for it to be ours."

"I know but-"

Before Forge could finish his rebuttal, alarms start going off the base and Atlas materializes on the holotable.

"Captain, I just received a message from a fragment of Cortana from the Citadel." Atlas said in a sharp tone.

Cutter's expression changed into one of intense focus as he addressed the newly created AI.

"What is going on Atlas? Why put the base on alert?"

"It's the content of the message Captain." Atlas said, his tone slightly panicked. "An asteroid is heading towards a human colony."

This certainly got the occupancy of the room attention.

"Wait, hold up." Forge spoke up. "What are you talking about? An asteroid? What's so special about this asteroid?"

"This isn't an ordinary hunk of rock, Sergeant Forge." Atlas elaborated. "This asteroid is designated X57 by the Alliance. It is an orbital port facility designed to mine out the asteroid for resources to finish out interior for habitation. It has fusion torches to steer the asteroid away from the human colony known as Terra Nova. Recently, communications with the engineering team on X57 have been lost. The fusion torches have reignited, and the asteroid is accelerating towards Terra Nova."

This news has caught the Captain, Professor, and Sergeant off guard. The entire colony is now in danger with an asteroid being hurled at with millions of lives certainly will be lost.

"What do we do, Captain?" Forge asked with an intense look in his eyes.

"The Spartans are currently undertaking their own mission." Atlas reminded. "Even if they were to divert from their current objective, it leaves colonies unprotected."

"That should be simple, Atlas." Cutter said as if it were the most obvious thing. "We're a military crew. The Spartans aren't the only ones here who can fight."

The Captain turned towards the Sergeant who snapped at attention.

"Round up an ODST squad Forge, you have a mission on hand."

Forge only saluted his Captain. "SIR!"

Alright, another one written and done.

Lots of stuff beginning to go down as well as setting up the next set of chapters and future events to come.

Hoo boy, let me tell ya, I've been kinda neglecting writing my stories both by myself and with my comrades online but that's cause the quarantine has lightened up and me and my friends have been catching up on lost time.

My body is trying to die from all the activities we've been doing. Still, feels good to do that cause sometimes you need that space away from stories so that when you come back you'll feel refreshed and ready for more.

BSX: I've been waiting for this moment for the Spirit of Fire Crew to shine. Will be taking a short break from the Spartans to let the SOF finally get some action. Don't worry they will come back but for now it's time for the men and women of the ODSTs to get their moment.

FMW: Yup. We've got an entire crew of people and lots of personalities that we can create and explore. We've gotten stories with ships arriving in the ME universe with an entire crew of people but they aren't really as explored as they could be. This I feel is a missed opportunity for the most part and where there can be more stories to be told through them.

BSX: For reference on Sgt Forge augmentation, it's cited on Chapter 6 detailing his augmentation. If some parts felt off and such that would be me so no excuse on my end.

Anyway, we've got a lot of work to do and we've only just really started with the story.

We've essentially finished our introductions cause now it's time we start planting the seeds for the major events to come.

Before we go I'll leave you with this. Many have spoken up about their excitement and want for other UNSC ships and such to appear in the ME universe.

Let's just say that BSX and I have something extremely special in that regard that you'll see within the story of ME2.

And I can proudly say, it's not gonna be someone off event.

No, what will happen will play a large role in ME3 then it just being a cool little gimmick.

Other than that…

Rate Read and Review and as Always Have Nice Day.