Hello. So I'm sure you're wondering 'What is this going to be about?' Particularly if the picture is anything to go by.

Well, it's an AU Mass Effect story, with the same characters but with some rather large differences. It's a fusion of Mass Effect characters with various elements from games, books and movies I've read, watched and played over the years, and also influences of European history and culture too. Hopefully it all works and you find it interesting.

Never written an AU before. Apart from the characters and some minor elements, shared with the OT is the idea of another race of people hell bent on the destruction of everything and everyone else.

Feedback is appreciated. If it's complete shite, I'll take it on the chin and try again. I won't be writing more than one chapter at a time, so if it span complete shite, I won't have wasted my time too much.

If you don't like person perspective stories, you won't like this either. I no longer write from the person perspective.

Hope you enjoy.

Year 2183 of the Empire (since Foundation Year)

Year 979 of the Third Era of Empire (Dragonheart Line)

Lunae, the first day of Morning Star

About 10am

The incessant banging reverberated around my head and I thought, as my brain slowly kicked into gear, that it was simply the start of one hell of a hangover. From somewhere deep within I groaned, instantly smelling the gods only knew what on my breath. Definitely the remnants of whatever I was drinking the night before. And certain other tastes, pleasurable at the time, did not produce pleasant morning breath.

The banging didn't stop, and as my ears started to work, I think someone was shouting my name. I groaned again, and would have sat up, except I had one body to my left, one body to my right. Both appeared feminine, and the fact I could see the skin of their backs suggested they were naked. So it must have been a rather good night. Shame I couldn't remember much of it. One appeared to be a redhead, which was standard, considering I adored redheads, the other a brunette.

"Whoever was banging on the door was insistent so I finally found my voice, shouting, "What?"

"Captain, you'd better get your arse into gear, er, respectfully, sir. You're meant to be facing the Admiralty Board in less than an hour."

Shit, I'd forgotten all about that the night before. All I remember is a tavern, music, plenty of booze and a lot of women. I looked at the two women again and wondered if they were whores or not. Knowing my track record, they probably were. "What times it, Moreau?"

"A little after ten am, sir. You'd better get dressed and out here in a hurry if you want to make it on time."

"Give me ten minutes."

Managing to crawl over the brunette, I fell off the bed with a thud onto the wooden floor, neither woman even stirring slightly. Crawling to the nearby chest of drawers, I grabbed the pewter jug and poured what I hoped for and soon saw was water, gulping down the glass before simply drinking from the jug itself., even pouring a little over my head. Leaning back against the drawers, I took a few deep breaths, wondering if I needed to vomit. If I did, I'd rather not be wearing my uniform.

The urge vanished and I somehow got to my feet, the room immediately starting to spin. Grabbing the drawers for stability, I again let that feeling pass before I began the search for my clothes. I found my coat on a chair, my cream coloured trousers and underwear on the floor, my shirt underneath the brunette. I gave her arse a gentle slap so she'd move, rolling onto her side as she looked at me with bloodshot eyes. "Well, how are we this morning?" she asked softly.

"Hungover and going to be late for my meeting."

My white shirt was creased to hell but there was little I could do about that now, nearly falling over as I put on my underwear, while my trousers were also creased, thankful there were no stains. The dark blue overcoat was underneath my jacket, throwing that on first, leaving my jacket for last as I searched for my boots. Finding those under my bed, my dark blue socks were currently inside one of them. I didn't try the sniff test as I my stomach still felt unsettled, just rolling those on before sliding my feet into the comfortable leather, the top of the boot stopping just below the knee.

"Who are you?" the brunette asked.

"You don't know?"

"You never told us your name."

"Captain John Shepard. Imperial Navy. Commanding Officer of the Expedition. Which must be a subtle joke, considering we never go further than the reef."

"I heard the gasp. "I've heard of you. You're a hero. The Battle of the Five Apostles. The hell were you doing in that tavern?"

"Some say I am, and I was there for a good time," I replied, throwing on my coat, two lines of gold buttons to do up. Looking around for my hat, I continued, "But what I am now is very late, and from what I've been told, I might actually have a new assignment than just a dull patrol of the coastline."

Finding my hat on the other side of the bed, where the redhead was now starting to stir, I managed to find a mirror to see what I looked like. Definitely hungover, my eyes bloodshot to hell. I needed a shave, running hand down my stubbled cheek and chin, but there was nothing I could do about that now. I checked my breath and pulled a face in the mirror.

"Before I was about to walk out the door, the brunette cleared her throat. "For services rendered, Captain."

"I wasn't sure, and didn't want to presume," I said, finding my coin purse in my pocket a little lighter than the night before, "How much?"

"For Triss and I, let's call it two gold coins apiece. I'm sure a captain of the Imperial Navy can afford that price." I placed four coins on the drawer, and was ready to leave again when she cleared her throat again.

"No goodbye kiss, Captain Shepard?"

"Some girls do, some girls don't."

"We did a lot of that and plenty of other things last night, Captain, some of which you definitely used your mouth for." If she was expecting a blush, she wasn't going to get one, because I'm sure I did exactly what she was insinuating. "I'm sure we'd both like a kiss goodbye. And maybe you could visit us again sometime."

"Make an impression?"

"Better than most, that's for sure."

"Well, I wasn't going to deny what was undeniably an attractive woman, so I kissed her, before the redhead rolled over so I could kiss her too. Before I finally left, I did turn back and ask, "The redhead is Triss. What's your name?"

"Cerys."

"Hmmm. It suits you. Well," I tipped my hat, "May we meet once again in the future."

Exiting into a hallway, I figured I was still in the tavern from the night before, my footsteps echoing on the wooden staircase as I hurried downstairs. Moreau was sat at one of the booths, immediately getting up and saluting upon seeing me. His appearance was markedly better than mine. The first question I had to ask is, "How did you find me?"

He kept his face straight as he replied. "Do you think you're not watched, Captain?"

"So you mean spied upon?"

"I mean minders, sir. Considering who you are and all, and this part of Arcturus isn't exactly the nicest…"

"Some would call it seedy, Moreau," I said, gesturing to the door though flinging another coin at the barman as thanks. No doubt I'd drunk, eaten and whatever else the night before. I'm sure I'd start to remember soon enough.

Stepping out into the sunlight, I had to take a deep breath. Arcturus, the largest city of the Empire, home to the largest dockyard of the Imperial Navy, capital city of the Empire of the Twelve Realms. No-one knew the exact population, the city spreading across both sides of the Red River, though the city spread down towards a natural harbour, where ships that patrolled the length and breadth of the Empire were based. If you had a fast horse, it was possible to ride across the breadth of the Empire is five days, but you needed a good horse. It usually took a week.

Moreau fell in alongside me as we strode towards one of the main thoroughfares of the city. The part of Arcturus I was in was close to one of the main dockyards, full of taverns that sold cheap beer and cheap women. It was the sort of place I loved, full of life and atmosphere, reminders of my early years in the navy, though it was not a place where a person of my current standing should be. I'm sure if any of my superiors found out, they'd like to have their say. A subtle warning perhaps. Though all men under my command were warned the only thing I won't put up with is a breakout of venereal disease.

Despite it being the day after the new year, the roads were already full of people, horses and carriages, and all other manner of traffic. Putting two fingers in my mouth, I whistled and waved down a taxi carriage, gesturing Moreau to get on as I told the driver to head to Imperial Square, home of the Admiralty. I always thought they'd situate themselves closer to their ships, but no. The lords liked to be close to the centre of power, as the Imperial Palace was at the end of the Imperial Walk, flanked on either side by grand buildings of the Empire. It was simply an exercise, a statement of how rich and powerful the Empire was, despite the fact people did wonder who we were proving it to. Apart from a people we had discovered to the north, who had proven warlike so we made sure they learned their place, we were alone in the world. Or so we thought…

The carriage rattled and rolled, despite the fact stones was used to build the main roads of the Empire. The old saying 'All roads lead to Arcturus' was true, as the Empire spent centuries ensuring the Empire was connected, particularly during the formative years, when each realm was conquered and assimilated into the Empire. We were now one people, who spoke one tongue, and worked for one goal. The safety and security of the Empire, his lands and the Emperor himself, Uhtred III.

"New assignment, sir?" Moreau finally asked.

"To be honest, I hope so. Patrolling the Gold Coast can be rather dull most of the time."

"There are rumours the Batarians are building up their forces again."/p

"Good for them. But they can't cross the Grampians by foot. Too cold. Far too much snow. We'll know they're coming. And it's been our natural border against any other threats for millennia."

"You're from the north, aren't you?"

""Tromso, to the north-east, the very edge of the Empire, no more than half a day from the Grampians. It was the first town the Batarians tried invading. They obviously failed, fools that they are. How they managed to navigate the reef, I'll never know."

"Shallow bottomed craft, sir. That's what all the reports said."

"The only thing they can do is come by sea again. And they'll be fools to try. Admiral Anderson has based himself on the Gold Coast, at Portsmouth. He's polite enough to forward the occasional report in my direction. He is receiving the same word but he has more than enough craft to see them off. They might try another raid or two, but they never usually succeed."

"So what do you think this is about? An invasion of their lands?"

"I shook my head. "Doubtful. Taking their lands would be pointless and add nothing of value to the Empire."

""You've heard the rumours otherwise? About the new ship?"

"I have. I doubt they'd give something like that to me, in all honesty." I paused, before adding, "I certainly wouldn't refuse it, particularly if they finally released us out of the reef. Yes, it's kept us safe all these years, but who knows what else is out there? It's the reason why I joined up. The chance to actually explore this world."

"The vastness of the Empire not enough for you?"

"Our land has been explored. This world we call Europa needs exploring. There are no more secrets here. Well, only the secrets that men keep."

Moreau finally quieted down as I rubbed my temples, the dull ache in my head refusing to leave. My own damned fault, and there was nothing I could do except drink water, eat a little food and hope it went away quickly. The ride of the carriage smoothed out the closer we approached Imperial Square, this part of Arcturus certainly far more affluent and near the centre of Empire. The sound of hooves on stone echoed a steady rhythm, and it almost lulled me to sleep, only stirring when the carriage finally came to a stop and Moreau dug me in the ribs.

Thankfully he paid the carriage-man as I bounded up the steps of Admiralty House, hearing him wish me good luck. He'd return to his quarters immediately, no doubt in preparation for what we'd be doing next. We'd known each other years, and he had always maintained he was happy in his position.

Calling it the Admiralty House was a misnomer. It was a palace, not as grand as the Imperial, but with twelve stone columns, a broad façade, and the most intricate stonework around each column and even on the doors, it was another statement of power and prestige.

The doors were thankfully open and I strode in quickly, the heels of my boots clicking on the marble floor. The ceiling towered above us, walls covered in enormous paintings of long ago battles at sea and, a little bizarrely, at land. I made sure I saluted those of seniority as I passed but I certainly received more salutes the closer I approached the meeting room.

Coming to a stop, I took a deep breath, made sure I looked at least I wasn't nursing a hangover, before stepping into the small office, where the Admirals' clerk was waiting for me. She looked up from her desk, and I noticed the eyes look up and down. "Captain Shepard." Not a question, a statement. I'd seen her before and people knew who I was. "You're here just on time. They're waiting inside."

"Thank you," I replied, tipping my hat before removing it, sliding through the open door into the large office of the Lord Admiral of the Navy.

The room was enormous, a sign of status and position, not only in the Navy, but of position in the Empire itself. The Lord Admiral reported directly to the Emperor. His office reflected his position, though many knew he had not changed the office since rising to his position. I couldn't help look around, particularly the large picture of his predecessor against the far wall, before striding towards the enormous mahogany table in the middle of the room, where three men were waiting. In the middle was Lord Admiral Hackett, the lone man entirely responsible for the welfare of the Imperial Navy. To his right was the First Sea Lord, a man by the name of Ryder. To his left was the Lord High Admiral, a member of the Imperial family, the son of the Emperor himself, sharing the same name of his father. I immediately took a knee, crossing my right arm across my chest. "Apologies, Majesty. I did not expect…" I trailed off, utterly embarrassed I hadn't recognised him straight away.

"Rise, Captain Shepard," the High Admiral requested, meeting my look with a small grin, "My presence here was not initially intended, but was requested by my father."

"Please, take a seat, captain," Hackett asked. He was a veteran of the navy. Grey hair topped a serious face, his eyes boring into mine. Scar down the cheek, reportedly from a fight during a pirate attack. He was immensely popular with the men who served, having instituted many ideas that made life better for the most ordinary of seamen.

Taking a seat across from the three of the most powerful men in the Empire would be intimidating to any man. Anything said in this meeting would be reported to the Emperor if his son was present. And I certainly didn't want to make a bad impression in front of Hackett and Ryder. I yearned for something new, something different, and I had an idea that perhaps, just perhaps, that is what would be on offer.

"Did you enjoy the festivities last night?" Ryder asked. His voice was harsh, gravel, a sign of a long life at sea, shouting orders at others. His face was slightly weather beaten, and he maintained a beard, though kept neat. Unusual for an officer no longer at sea.

"I did, sir." I kept my answer short, to the point. They wouldn't really want to hear, and I had an inkling they probably already knew what I'd been doing, if Moreau had been right that I had watchers. The Empire didn't spy on its people, as far as I knew, but even I thought that people such as myself would be watched on occasion.

"You have been the commanding officer of the Expedition for three years now, Shepard. Do you mind if I call you Shepard?" Hackett asked.

"No, lord."

"Three years, Shepard. A long time patrolling the coast, and I can only assume a man of your history and capabilities is keen for something more." I didn't reply, as I wasn't sure if I should be completely honest. So he added, "Speak freely, Shepard."

"It can be a little dull, lord. Our coasts are kept safe by the reefs that ring our land, and the only people that have ever made contact, we beat back rather easily. We have an enormous navy that spends a lot of time at sea, appears to be rather strong, yet does nothing except patrol." I cleared my throat. "Respectfully, lord."

Hackett shared a brief glance with the two men alongside him. "Anne?" Hackett called. I turned to see his clerk appear at the door. "Please close the doors. And please vacate your office. Lock the main doors. No-one, and I repeat no-one, is to approach nor enter. Have two men stand guard. If anyone dares try to enter, they are to be arrested immediately. I don't care who it is."

"Of course, lord."

Nothing was said as we heard those doors closed and locked, before the outer doors were then banged shut. Only then did Hackett clear his throat. "You've been summoned here today for two reasons, Shepard. What you are about to hear today has been a secret held by the Empire for near one hundred years. The only reason we are sharing it now is due to the second reason, which will be told afterwards."

Ryder leaned forward, handing across a battered folder. Taking it from him, I noticed the stamp stating 'Confidential', and the other stamp stating 'Top Secret'. Immediately wondering what was contained within, I untied the cloth binding and opened the folder. The paper within was slightly faded, though the writing was still legible. I didn't read anything at first, as there were only a few sheets, instead look at the three men across from me.

"Only four men alive know this secret, Shepard. The three men in front of you, and the Emperor. You will be the fifth man shortly. After that, more will learn once you share your mission," Hackett started.

Looking at Ryder, he took up the conversation. "Near one hundred years ago, Shepard, the Imperial Navy built a new class of ship. It was enormous, weighing it a little over one thousand tonnes, a crew of four hundred men, two decks with fifty-five guns. It was the largest and most powerful ship ever built. We called it the Dunkerque." That made sense, as it was the scene of one of the greatest battles of the Imperial Wars, where the people of Normandy held out against a more powerful foe for six months before they finally surrendered.

"I've never heard of it, the ship I mean," I admitted.

"It's been purposefully written out of history, Shepard," Hackett stated, "The Dunkerque was sent out past the reefs, the first warship to be sent to explore the world in generations. It was expected to be gone no longer than one year. We had studied old maps from centuries before, of great lands to the west. They were little more than rumours and whispers, but while the Empire is large, if we can discover more land on which to expand, to feed our people and project our power, then they should be claimed by the Empire."

"The ship never returned," Ryder confessed, "Once it hit five years overdue, the ship was written off as missing, lost at sea. And it was covered up. Anyone alive when the ship was built then disappeared would have long since passed away."

"Four hundred men lost and it was covered up?" I asked, unable to hide the accusing tone in my voice.

If they took offence, they made no mention. "To announce the loss of such a ship, Shepard, would have stoked a fear in the people of the Empire that might have been impossible to keep a lid on. Who out there could possibly have taken down a ship of such magnitude? My predecessors felt that same fear, Shepard. So everything about it was stricken from the records. Even the men."

I couldn't believe what I was being told. I knew the Empire kept secrets, but this was something else entirely. "The ship was sent out alone?" I wondered.

"Yes. The ship dwarfed anything else in our navy. It was assumed, perhaps incorrectly, that a lone ship of that size and power would have sailed the seas without incident, and hopefully would have returned home with stories to share. New lands, maybe even new people. We are almost alone on this world, Shepard. It would be nice to know if other people were out there."

"One hundred years, and no-one knows? How do you know, lords?"

"Each Emperor is passed certain secrets," the Lord High Admiral stated, "Of which the loss of the Dunkerque is one. My great-grandfather took the loss of the ship personally, knowing the idea to explore had been his. He felt the loss of each man, all four hundred, on his very soul. My father was informed when he ascended the throne, and I have been informed due to my position."

"And each Lord Admiral and Sea Lord is also informed upon assuming their position," Hackett added.

"So why am I being told, lord?"

"That is the second secret, Shepard. A new ship has been built in complete isolation, anyone working on it warned they must not divulge information under threat of the most heinous punishments imaginable. It is even larger than the Dunkerque," Ryder replied, handing across a second folder. This one was crisp and new. Untying the cloth, the paper was new, the ink almost drying as I slowly read what the new ship was. To say it would enormous was an understatement.

"We have coined a term for such an advanced ship, Shepard," Hackett continued, "A man-of-war. It will be the first of many, what the Admiralty will be loosely terming as 'ships of the line'. As we explore, we hope to meet friends, but we know we will also meet foes. The Batarians were a sign that not all people we meet or who discover us will prove friendly. We must prepare ourselves for any eventuality. Even divisions within the Empire itself."

"You are talking rebellion, lord?" I wondered.

"The twelve realms appear to be peaceful, Shepard. But some still bristle at the power of Arcturus and the Emperor himself. But the most concerning is the rise of this new faith to the east."

"The Church of the Burned Man," Ryder added, "They could prove dangerous if left unchecked."

"I'd heard of them. I thought they were a bizarre sect, believing a man burned at the stake for heresy against The Five centuries ago, was actually a saint and some sort of prophet of who they called the One True God. I generally avoided getting involved in such conversations, though my faith in The Five, and the old gods, remained resolute. So far, the Church of the Burned Man said a lot but didn't dare challenge the power of the true faith of Empire.

"That's by the by," the High Admiral said, "What is important is why you are here, Shepard, and why you are being told all this."

"Thank you, sire," Hackett said, "This new ship is the beginning of a revolution in ship technology, Shepard. But it is also an opportunity for you, and you may also help lay old ghosts to rest. You will be given command of this new vessel. You may choose your crew apart from those designated by the various boards. Your mission is simple, Shepard. Investigate the disappearance of the Dunkerque and continue their original mission of exploration. We must know what is out there. Are we truly alone or are we surrounded by friends or enemies?"

"When do I leave?" I asked straight away.

The three men shared a glance. "So you accept?" Hackett asked.

"I've been waiting for this sort of opportunity all my life, lord," I replied, before adding, "When can I see her?"

"We can leave immediately. It is currently dock around the south headlands, out of view of nearly everyone. It has been taken out for sea trials and, by all reports, performed remarkably well."

The three men rose to their feet. I followed their example, sharing a handshake with each of them, sealing the fact I would take their offer. The trio then filed out of the room, making sure I grabbed the folders before following them out. I was surprised to see I was taller than the Lord High Admiral, the same height as the Lord Admiral, and only just shorter than Ryder.

Striding down the marbled hallway towards the front of the building, I heard someone call for the Imperial carriage, as listed men and not leapt out of way, crisp salutes as we passed. The hallway was almost silent, only the clip of our boots on the marbled floor, quiet conversation between the two Admirals. I walked behind, wanting to read more about this new ship but I didn't want to trip over.

At the bottom of the stairs was the Imperial carriage. It looked rather sinister painted black, with many gold trimmings and patterns, including the symbol of the Imperial crest on the door, twelve small flags of the realms in the shape of a shield, a red dragon to either side. The carriage was also huge, pulled by half a dozen horses. The High Admiral climbed aboard first, and I was last to take a seat, sitting next to Ryder. Instructions were yelled for our destination, and I settled down to read about my new ship.

It would be larger than any frigate I'd ever served or sailed by double. Bigger than the Dunkerque. Seventy-five guns on two decks. Six hundred men. A little under two thousand tonnes. I wondered how something that heavy could possibly be buoyant, thinking it would simply sink to the bottom of the sea. Reading about its configuration, the top speed when at full sail was mind-boggling. Reports were that it handled like a dream, taking into consideration its weight. I looked at the cost to build and couldn't help whistle at the number.

"It'll be worth every penny if you're successful, Shepard," Ryder murmured beside me.

The journey took a couple of hours, the southern headlands not incorporated as part of the Imperial City of Arcturus. There was no danger following the dirt road as there was no doubt it would be patrolled by the Imperial Army, and we passed by more than one column of men. Rising over the crest of a hill, the carriage turned to follow the road and I could see a vast village laid out on the shoreline. But that wasn't what took my breath away.

"By the Five," I whispered, "How has no-one…"

"Patrols keep any ship from heading this far south. And the harbour is a natural hiding point, the cliffs helping keep the masts hidden. We spent a lot of money building the dock specifically for this one ship, Shepard," Ryder replied.

Descending into the outskirts of the village, if anyone recognised the Imperial carriage, they either didn't care or were too focused on whatever they were doing. The closer we approached, the larger the ship loomed, sitting at anchor only a few metres from shore. It wasn't just the fact it was large. It was probably the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen. The sheer number of trees that would have been felled and transported… An entire forest must have been cut down. Add to that all the iron required to keep all the wood together…

The carriage pulled up and it was only when the High Admiral stepped out that people suddenly seemed to realise who had approached, as nearly everyone now took a knee and gestured. Part of me wanted to be rowed out and board the ship right away, but I would wait until officially assuming command. Having already been taken out to sea, it was back and anchored in the harbour only for the finishing touches. From what I could see, it would only be a couple of weeks or so until she looked completely ready./p
"Being at least fifty metres bow to stern, twelve metres at the beam, a trio of masts, we did have to stand back to appreciate the full size of the vessel, and I immediately made for the bow, wondering what sat on the very front of the bow. I was pleased to see it was the god of the sea, Neptune. The men would take comfort in its protection. As would its future captain. Prayers to the god of the sea are invoked before the commencement of any sailing. The sailors I would choose for my vessel would likely visit one of the many Temples of the Five throughout the city before joining.

"Two weeks, Shepard, before you will set sail," Hackett stated, the four of us gazing out at the ship. We could see men working all over it. "Between now and then, you'll need to recruit. We understand you'll want many of those who served on your previous vessel. The Admiralty will appoint you a new Lieutenant, as your current will assume command, temporary or not, of the Expedition. Other officers will be appointed at the pleasure of yourself or the relevant boards of control, though we will accept any recommendations and requests. Considering the mission, we understand you will want people you can trust."

"One other thing, Shepard," Ryder added, "This will be a unisex crew. Women will serve alongside men. It has been trialled before, but considering the possible length of this assignment…" He trailed off. The innuendo was clear. Men would get lonely, and if women were also present, relations would be possible. In fact, on a ship at sea, with no land in sight for weeks, it was guaranteed.

"You are suggesting that I can allow fraternisation, sir?"

"Yes, Shepard."

"Very well. What about pregnancy? It's a potential war vessel, no place for pregnant women nor children."

"You will be assigned two surgeons, one with a history of birthing."

"You're kidding… er, sir?" I asked, simply unable to hide my surprise.

"Your mission will be unique, Shepard. And we are merely thinking of any eventuality."

""You are unmarried, Shepard?" Hackett wondered.

I thought he'd know all my history, so I wondered why he was asking. Shrugging, I replied, "Not married, lord. No real relationship in a long time considering all the time I spent at sea." I paused before adding, "Well, I'm sure you've probably been informed of what I do get up to at times, lord."

Hackett actually glanced my way and smirked. "We all have our weaknesses, Shepard. And you have been on furlough since Celebration Day of the Five Gods. You haven't been arrested, at least."

I cleared my throat, so I guessed the three knew exactly what I'd been up to since arriving in Arcturus a week ago. "Anyway, my parents still live in Tromso, though I haven't seen them in quite a while. Father is obviously a retired officer. One sister. She currently serves on another vessel."

"Jane Shepard, correct?" Ryder asked.

"Yes, sir."

"Would you like her to serve on the same ship?"

I shrugged again. "Only if it's her choice, sir. She has her own life and career."

"She has been summoned to Arcturus and should be here within the week. You may offer her the opportunity and, if she's interested, we will accept her commission without hesitation."

"Thank you, sir." I glanced back out at the ship before looking back at the paperwork. There was one thing missing that I'd only just realised, and I couldn't see anything on the side of the ship. "What's her name?"

"We've called her the Normandy, Shepard. Named after the last realm to hold out against the Empire, and they still provide the bravest warriors for our army to this day," Hackett replied.

"Considering we named the last ship after their capital, I'm not sure if it's a good sign or not, lord. I jest, of course. She is simply… magnificent."

We eventually returned to the city itself, the carriage dropping the Lord Admiral, the Sea Lord and myself outside Admiralty House, the High Admiral wishing me luck, sharing a warm handshake, before he returned to the Imperial Palace. I was told I could return to quarters and start preparing lists of people I would like recruited to my vessel. Other than that, if I was required, I would be summoned by either man. After a round of handshakes, I was soon strolling down the wide boulevard back towards the busier, livelier parts of the city.

Of course, I didn't return to quarters, not just yet. I had two weeks, or so they said, before I would be commissioned as the commanding officer of the Normandy. I figured a final night of revelry, of boozing and whoring, wouldn't be so bad before I put my mind to preparing lists of people and thinking about the future. I found the prospect of finally sailing beyond the reef an exciting if not slightly daunting prospect. No-one sailed beyond the reefs, not in a warship at least. Smaller vessels did, only sailing craft, and they never ventured too far. Too many ships had tried and shipwrecked. There was only one rumoured path through, and no-one had figured it out. No-one dared try, as they wouldn't want to be responsible for losing an Imperial vessel.

Finding myself in an area of the city by the docks that was rather familiar, considering I'd been there the night before, gas lights were starting to illuminate as I strode along the narrow seats, earning plenty of curious glances, no doubt people wondering why someone dressed as myself was in that part of the city. I heard plenty of catcalling, particularly from girls in windows and doorways, wondering if I'd enjoy their company.

I eventually found the perfect tavern, situated just off the main road, though the noise suggested it was already very busy. Walking inside, the place did quiet down a bit, again people probably wondering what some like myself was doing in there. I ordered an ale and held my tankard up to the room. "An ale for all my fellow revellers, barkeep!"

The roar of appreciation was almost deafening and I knew I'd be in for quite a good night, as I was soon surrounded by plenty of friendly people, many asking who I was, and once my name did slip out, I didn't have to buy myself a drink all night. Apparently everyone knew of me at least, which was still a surprise. By the end of the night, I was walking upstairs to a room I hastily booked, flanked by a couple of women. Amazingly, the same two girls as the night before. I think they had noticed and followed me inside. I wasn't going to complain, particularly as they suggested I'd be in for another good night.

My life sometimes.

A/N – So if you found this interesting, hopefully you'll follow. For anyone who knows about sailing, I've done my research but I know certain things are probably incorrect going forward.

If you're wondering:

Days of the week - based on Roman names

Months of the year - based on Elder Scrolls lore

The Emperor - named after my OC from another story

Dragonheart line - I wanted to call it the Dragonborn line. I still wanted to reference dragons, so called it what I did instead.

The year - obvious (hopefully)

Ryder, the Sea Lord - a nod to ME: Andromeda

Triss and Cerys - names of characters from the Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt (In TW3, Triss is waifu (#TeamTriss) while I absolutely adore Cerys as a character, and I always support her becoming queen)

Empire of the Twelve Realms - cooked up in my mind. Holy shit, I do have an imagination. Not so imaginative will be most place names, which will mostly be based on names found in Europe, though I might make further references to other things.

There might be a few OCs, but characters from any other game, book, film, TV show or whatever I think of, might make an appearance in this story.