Hello everyone. My name is Godospartan, and I am here to bring a NEW crossover to you. This is a Mass Effect and Naruto crossover.

I am sure you all have seen this kind of thing before... 77 stories of this in fact, but I guarantee you it will be somewhat original, as original as I can make it. Trust me, and give it a try.

Also, here with me is Arch-Daishou, a good friend, Beta of Naruto Hellsing, and CO-writer of this story, Care to say a few words?

Arch-Daishou: Yo! This should an interesting twist to the game we all know and love. Hope you all enjoy this tale and take the first step along with us. Hope you enjoy!

Merry Christmas, and let us begin this wondrous new story...

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

In a darkened room, with a table casting light above it with pictures and files of history showing the onlookers what they want to see, three human men stood in determination on who they would choose to present as their best hope in furthering humanity in the universe. Alongside them was one Turian, the one charged with helping choose based on all requirements for the status that was above anything Humans gained so far?

One File showed up in particular amongst the rest. A man in a white suit and a static demeanor spoke first. "Well, what about Shepard? Earthborn, no relatives of any kind..."

Another man beside him in blue military dress uniform shrugged. "She doesn't have any. She grew up on the streets, ran with gangs for a while. She learned how to fend for herself."

Another man in military uniform was straighter forward, a calculating eye and authoritative stance. "She proved herself during the Blitz. She held off ground forces until reinforcements could come in full circle."

The first man in uniform nodded. "That's the reason Elysium is still even colonized and prospering. Well Councilor Udina?"

Udina, the man in white, put his hand up to his chin. "We can't question her courage, that's for sure."

The Turian walked up and looked to the first man in uniform. "Captain Anderson, you've also got one more candidate that has everything we are looking for."

Anderson looked to the Turian. "What do you mean, Nihlus? This is a war hero, and it's not just for show either."

Nihlus scaled the files to another candidate, and Udina nearly choked. "Him..! You must be joking, he doesn't have any particular talent that you require in the Spectres, and he got his whole team killed on Akuze! Hackett, You know he isn't worthy of this honor."

Hackett, the man with authoritative stature, hummed at this. "It's true, he was unable to help any of his team escape Akuze. He was found as the only survivor, I wouldn't be surprised if he has major emotional scars. But Anderson knows best about that..."

Anderson nodded and looked at the file. "Naruto Uzumaki, elite covert operative of N7. Same level and rank as Emily Shepard... Whilst Emily is more technical and tactical in a defensive position, Naruto is a wide user of power in offense, with incredible power to boot. Besides, all soldiers carry scars like that, but that is exactly why he is useful, he is a survivor. We found him as a baby in the wreckage of Detroit, so there is no question about his ability to survive, even though impossible odds."

Udina scoffed. "Is that the kind of man we want protecting the Galaxy?"

Anderson looked to Nihlus. "He is probably the only kind of person who CAN protect the very Galaxy. He was even the leader of the gang Emily was in. When we finally caught him, he surrendered to us if we made sure not to harm his gang."

Nihlus used his Omni-tool to make a copy of each file. "Both sound considerably talented in their own rights, and both show up every requirement the Spectres give. Even the guidelines we keep secret... With your permission, I would like to put forward BOTH names for consideration."

That caught the three humans off guard. Not only was a Turian putting names forth for a high privilege position, but a Turian SPECTRE who was willing to make two humans into specters at once. Turian's and Humans were always tense after the First Contact War for the humans, and never got along in large groups of each other, so this came as a huge surprise.

Anderson turned to Nihlus. "Why would you put both names forward?"

Nihlus smiled. "Because I think they are BOTH ready to become Spectres. Being human has nothing to do with it. I will have to talk to my fellow Spectres about them both, but I have every confidence that they will agree with me."

Nihlus turned and left to do just that. As he did, Anderson and Hackett, along with Udina looked over both files again. Hackett hummed at them. "I can understand Shepard, being one to never give up, a strong soldier with a mind for tactical advantage, but not Naruto. Even if his Biotics are unmatched, even by Asari standards, He let his whole team be killed in the attack on Akuze."

Anderson disagreed. "But you forget, he owned up to his failure without any evidence he was the one responsible for their deaths. Any leader worth their salt would feel that the blood of their dead comrades is on their hands for making a bad call, but we don't know the full story of what happened on the ground."

Udina sighed. "Still… If we just go by his pre-service history, he is no different than Shepard. Both were in a gang, and both willingly joined the alliance to serve for the good of the Galaxy. Shepard defended a planet single-handed until help arrived, and all we know is Naruto was strong willed enough and smart enough to survive on Akuze, even after the horrible things that happened to his squad."

Hackett shut the table's data screen off. "A survivor and a war hero, both could meet expectations. Naruto sure has in his own way. Both are close, and whenever they are put together, even the most impossible mission becomes possible. Their tactics together are something else, so having both in the same squad and status would be cliché, but also something very good for the Alliance, as well as Humanity. Nothing thrown their way when they become Spectres will be left standing. Hell, nothing is left standing anyway even when they are both commanders."

The ambassador nods. "You have a point... We will send them both, then. Captain Anderson, get the new Frigate ready to leave. When Nihlus and the Council make their final decision, we should have a ship worthy of the test being done up to speed."

Captain Anderson saluted and went off to do just that. Hackett started to leave as well, leaving Udina in thought. "Now, how to further this without any complications. We are already having trouble with Spectre status as is, after Anderson's screw up years ago, but if we succeed this time, maybe we can get on the Citadel Council earlier..."

XxX A Week Later XxX

A young man with spiky blonde hair was yawing as he was walking through Arcturus Station, a bag of his clothes slung over his back. He was told only to bring basic essentials, no armor or weapons as they would be provided for him.

On his chest was his name tag that said his name proudly, Naruto Uzumaki. Naruto was ordered to take a flight from Earth to Arcturus only a day ago, and it took nearly four hours ago just to arrive, and there were no sleep pods in that ship. So he was thoroughly exhausted. Besides, there was no reason to stand ready for an attack on him in the halls of a human station in space; it wasn't like the Turian's wanted war again.

As he walked through the halls, he seen a familiar face, and almost went from sagging on the floor to bouncing off the walls as he rushed to the person he saw, walking the same way as him, but slower.

"EMILY!"

The person he called turned around to see who was calling her, and she smiled, stopping and turning to see him. Her brown hair with a tint of red long enough to reach the top of her back, and her brown eyes kind but firm. "Hey, long time no see, Naruto."

The blond smiles as he stood straight and proud. "Man, it's been forever. A year ago you were sent off to oversee a squad retaking Mindior. How did it go?"

Shepard sighed and looked down sadly. "We couldn't... The Batarian slavers are held in there tight, not to mention some stupid gang sprouted up called the Blue Suns. It's a hellhole. We managed to save twenty enslaved people, mostly young women. They are still pigs."

Naruto put his hand on her shoulder and gently pulled her into a hug, Emily burying her head in his chest as she hugged him back. "Hey, you did well. Saving a single person is way better than saving none. Remember how I felt after Akuze?"

The brunette nods and sighed, looking up at Naruto. "You have a point. Still doesn't get easier."

Naruto nodded at that and smiled. "But we move on and keep going forward. Isn't that what I always taught? I was on earth just recently; our old friends in the gang are doing very well for themselves, actually having great peaceful lives. Now come on, they wouldn't want my sister feeling useless for saving twenty slaves from a horrible future."

Emily chuckled at that and nodded, letting Naruto go and straightening up. "I only just got here myself. Was on the Citadel when they called me. Still an uptight place as usual."

Naruto looked puzzled. "Think they have another suicide mission for us?"

Emily rolled her eyes. "If we weren't together I would say the mission would be normal, but when have we ever been together in a mission and it not go straight to hell?"

Naruto nodded. "That means you have the same place and time to be at? In ten minutes I need to be at gate seven on floor five. That's a Frigate level."

Emily nodded as well and sighed. "Suicide mission on a Frigate. Go figure. Let's go, might as well humor them." She looked down in misery. "Hope it's nothing like the hell we had to deal with on Earth..."

Naruto looked down sadly, remembering every bloody moment of it all. He remembered his childhood, he and Emily being in a gang of kids just looking to survive and live happily. Being kids, they were always playful, but sometimes their pranks got others mad... This made him who he was today.

XxX Seventeen years ago, Naruto: Age 12 Emily: Age 11 XxX

Naruto smirked as he looked at the older man who is currently upside down, hanging from a rope. The older man glared daggers as he folded his arms.

"I am going to kill you one these days brat..." The man spoke in an agitated tone.

The blond's smirk never faded as he folded his arms across his chest. "Serves you right for bringing drugs into my territory. This area is for kids and I won't have them knee deep in Red Sand. Tell Marcus to keep his drugs and people away from The Black Foxes."

The man scoffs. "Like you can fight Marcus. Boss will rip you apart and tear your little gang to pieces. Mark my words Naruto, The Black Foxes die today."

Leaning forward the blond smirks deepens. "Like to see you try, Finch."

Turning he walked away never looking back at the man cursing his name. Still, he could not shake the ominous feeling he felt since this morning. Shaking it off Naruto walks through the broken alleyway of old Detroit. Unlike the utopia above, with towering skyscrapers. The beacon of hope, while down below, the old world slowly becomes ruins that people want to forget.

And even more so for its poor or orphaned children.

Walking through the old warehouse district the blond made his way to the make shift home for him and his surrogate family.

XxX xXx XxX

"Come one guy's time for lunch!"

In a broken down warehouse twelve children between six and twelve gather around a makeshift dining table an eleven year old Emily Shepard finished cooking lunch. Helping her getting the other kids to the table and put out plates a ten year girl with platinum blond hair in a ponytail with a single bang cover her left sapphire eye, wearing a slightly rough sundress. With her another ten year old girl with unique rosette colored hair and jade eyes, like her friend she also wears a tattered red sundress.

"Sakura, Ino, make sure everyone is ready and washed up okay?" Emily said bring out the large plate of food.

"Yes big sis!" The girls say in unison.

As she set the food down with two girls helping the younger kids, the warehouse doors open. Everyone grew tense until they looked over and faces' lit up with large smiles.

"NARUTO!"

Soon the blond in a black unzipped hoodie with a red shirt and black jeans is tackled by down by several kids in a hug. Emily chuckles while Ino sighed, Sakura ran over with a blush on her face. Looking down she sees the whiskered cheeked blond smiling back at her.

"Welcome home big brother." Sakura smiled. "Have fun today?"

Naruto smirked with his fox like grin. "Oh, seeing Finch flung around by rope was always entertaining."

Emily frowned. "Thought we told him and his Tenth Street Reds this is our territory?"

"Some idiots are too thick-skulled to learn once. Luckily pranking his ass never gets old." Naruto chuckled at that, but smiled seriously.

Sakura sighed as she had the kids let go of their surrogate big brother and help him stand. "Honestly, Naruto, you need to be careful. The Tenth Street Reds are really dangerous."

Naruto smirks thoughtfully. Sakura never liked it when he fought against the other gangs. Mainly she just never wanted him hurt; she was just scared like everyone else. And he could never fault her for being afraid.

Her cheeks blush as he touches her shoulders and kissed her forehead. "I'll be fine little sister. I promised I'd always keep everyone save, I never break a promise."

However both turn cheery red in the cheeks hearing the other kids singing. "~Naruto and Sakura sitting in a tree. ~"

XxX xXx XxX

After both blond and rosette chase some of the kids half around the warehouse, everyone finally settled at the table to eat. The atmosphere is warm and loving with bright conversation and laughter. Mostly the younger kids listening to Naruto's tall tales of his pranks against the other gangs.

–Though Emily makes Naruto swear to keep things a G rating -.

As everyone was finishing up the doors of the warehouse were violently slammed open. Like the wind Naruto stood in front of the others as he growls seeing the intruders' before him.

"So this is the Black Fox Gang huh?" A man's voice spoke with mock sarcasm.

Emily quickly rounded the others behind her as Naruto clinched his fists. How the hell did they find them?! More importantly what the hell was 'he' doing here? Standing arrogantly with that weasel Finch beside him, the leader of the Tenth Street Reds locks eyes with Naruto.

Marcus Cane, former alliance soldier who was discharged for misconduct of prisoners and drug possession. Least that is what the blond could dig up. Standing about 6'1 in height and in his late twenties, Marcus wears of all things a suit and tie, but with fingerless gloves. Well-built with short dirty blond hair, lit tan skin and grey eyes.

Those same eyes look at the make shift family with arrogance. "To think, the infamous Black Foxes were nothing more than brats. Have to say you know how to spin bullshit Naruto."

"It's a gift." The blond retorts.

Naruto eyes the windows outside the warehouse, he sees people, Reds most likely surrounding the place. 'Damn it! I can't get Emily and the others out of here.'

Marcus chuckled darkly. "Did you think you could not face the consequences of against fighting me Naruto? Now you get to see how I get rid of fleas."

"You have me Marcus let the others go." Naruto speaks up.

Finch scoffed. "Like hell we let them go! Piss off you whiskered cheeked brat! They get punished just like you!"

The children held to each other tightly with Ino, Sakura, and Emily safely around them. "Just leave us alone damn it!" Ino yelled out.

Marcus waved a chiding finger. "Tsk, tsk, we all pay the piper. Now, Naruto let's see what you can do."

Taking a deep breath, he realized he could not hide it anymore. Even if his family may hate him or thought he was a monster.

In a heartbeat crimson ethereal-like flames cover Naruto's body as his eyes glow red. Soon the men surrounding the build are swept up, screaming into a swirling energy which throw them around like ragdolls that also ripped through the metal walls of the warehouse like butter.

"WHAT THE HELL!" Finch half squawked.

Marcus only smirked. "You're a Biotic. That explains a lot." 'But never seen anyone with this much power. This kid's a natural. But never seen red before, that's new.'

The girls along with the other children watch in awe. Their big brother is a Biotic? However Emily, Ino, and Sakura soon thought some pieces were fitting into place. There were many things that happened around Naruto that just could not explain.

As soon as Marcus' men hit the ground unconscious Naruto pointed his hand forward. The crime boss's instincts shine as he moves out of the way of a biotic throw which sent Finch flying into a wall of building with the force of a car. Lowering his hand his glowing eyes turn sharply to Marcus.

Neither the other kids nor Naruto heard the shot. They only saw the smoking barrel of a pistol in that bastard's hand. Looking down, the younger blond felt something warm. He saw a small hole in the left side of his chest, blood slowly pulsing from the wound. His head was spinning as he barely heard Sakura screaming.

Her body reacted on its own as she saw Naruto fall to his knees. Sakura caught him before he fell further. Holding him as tightly as she could she felt her eyes burn as tears fell from her eyes. The red glow faded as his cerulean eyes look almost blank, unfocused.

Hearing footsteps she turned her head sharply seeing Marcus coming toward them. Stopping he towers over them with a sadistic smirk. Sakura, fearful as tears grew with fervor, all she ever wanted was to just help her big brother as she closed her eyes, waiting for the end.

Just as Marcus was about to pull the trigger, he stopped, hearing a click right behind him. "That's enough Major."

A deep rough male voice spoke as a pistol was pointed at the back of Marcus's head. All eyes widened as the children at a man in his forties, wearing an alliance uniform and cap. In his firm grip is the newest Raikou Pistol, the barrel at the center of the back of Marcus's skull. The said man was also wide eyed and paled.

"What the hell is the alliance doing here?" The older blond spoke with venom.

"None of your concern Major, now back away and take your men with you. Or my men will gladly put holes in your head."

Marcus snarled as he lowered his weapon. Of course he was not alone; no doubt snipers are in well placed positions on the high ground. Opening her eyes Sakura looks up at an angry Marcus looked down at her.

The former major growled a bit as his hushed voice promised a venomous end. "Tell your boyfriend. One way, or another, I will find him and kill him."

The rosette said nothing as she glared at a leaving murderer. Walking over the alliance man kneels down beside Sakura and unconscious Naruto. With his free hand the man check the blond's neck. Soon the other kids run up to them, all concerned with their beloved big brother.

Emily knelt down beside the alliance man, "Please, will he be alright sir?"

The man looked at her and then to the crying rosette. "We need to get him to a hospital. And you all are coming with me."

XxX xXx XxX

With a Groan Naruto slowly opened his eyes. Unfocused he rubbed his eyes as he slowly sat up. His cerulean eyes widened seeing that he is in a hospital room. A well cleaned and probably military by his guess. Looking down he sees the upper left half of his chest is bandaged up. But that was not what worried him.

"I see you're awake." A soft, yet firmly toned voice called.

Sharply turning his eyes widens seeing a man who he only read about. Average in height, at least in his forties, with a scar on the side of his face, wearing the Alliance uniform of a high ranking officer. His blue eyes gaze sternly at him

"Admiral Steven Hackett." Naruto nearly stuttered.

Nodding, the Admiral stands from his chair. "You heard of me son?"

The blond nods with a smile. "You're a legend, when you fought in the First Contact War with the Turians. I read up on everything I could find on you. I've been a fan of yours since I could remember. Admiral, where is my family?"

"The other children? They are currently being checked over by our physicians. Though we had to pry the girl with the pink hair off you." Hackett was almost ready to chuckle at that, but kept it together.

"Sakura… she was always protective of me." Naruto gave a soft chuckle and looked down at his hands.

A small coy smile curved at the side of the Admiral's lip. "You sure it's not love?"

Blushing, Naruto rubs the back of his head. "I know she does, but I only see her as my sister. That's how The Black Foxes were. Just a family."

Walking over to Naruto the old soldier pats his right shoulder. "I am impressed how you keep all of them together and protected. But being a biotic of your class, I see why."

Quickly the blond's eyes narrowed. "How did you know that...?" He whispered.

The admiral crossed his arms over his chest as he leaned back a bit. "A soldier who lives in old Detroit. He saw your talents when dealing with some thugs. He never had seen the normal blue be red. You peaked my interests. I was coming to see you today and speak with you."

Naruto looked at him solemnly. "You want me in the alliance... Don't you?"

Hackett nodded, standing at attention. "Exactly. We have seen how powerful your Biotics are, especially as just a child, but like other Biotics, you run the risk of losing control. We can help you get that control. If we left you alone, and your Biotics went awry, you'd destroy what remains of Detroit's old homes and everyone in them still."

Naruto looked down at his hands, remembering how powerful he could be if he didn't try to keep a handle on himself. Whenever he used his Biotics, they always threatened to overwhelm him, use more than he wanted to use, so he had to hold back whatever he could and control, but it was straining him way too hard. He closed his eyes. "I won't join..."

Hackett put his hands on the bed railing, getting closer to Naruto, looking determined to help. "You must understand what that implicates. If you can't gain control, what you see as family will be crushed by your own hands when you're Biotics runs wild."

Naruto turned and looked determined at Hackett. "I won't join. Not unless you promise me that none of my family will be harmed!"

Pulling up a chair, Admiral Hackett sits down looking Naruto in the eye. Both stare at each other with unwavering gaze. The older man is very impressed seeing this young teen showing no ounce of fear or hesitation.

Hackett smiled, thinking of a way to help civilians using his status, as well as making sure Naruto knows who the one who gives the orders is. "How about this. You willing to hear out my deal for you?"

XxX Present XxX

Sitting on a bench near the docking bay for the freighter to go on. Naruto sits beside Emily as they look at an old photo of the old gang. The blond remembers taking the deal made by his idol as he became enrolled into the Alliance. Of course he had to wait till he was eighteen to become trained as a soldier. So before that he was put into the best schools and lived at the military base in Detroit. It was made a challenge by Hackett, show the upper class that an orphan street urchin can surpass the supposed elite.

And Naruto had surpass all the Admiral's high expectations.

"Hard to believe that happened so long ago. Feels like a lifetime." Emily speaks softly. Her own little secrets kept in check as she smirked on the side, remembering her own invitation when she came of age.

Naruto sighs in nostalgia. "And Admiral Hackett kept his word. Everyone is safe and doing damn well for themselves. I still can't believe we both made it to N7."

The brunette looks at Naruto with dedication. "We earned that Naruto. And training and fighting beside my brother was a plus to it all."

"You two have done impressive feats." A familiar voice sounded behind them.

Looking up both quickly stand at attention and salute as Admiral Hackett walks up to them. "At ease you two."

Both relax as the Admiral picks the picture Naruto dropped. "It's hard to believe that you two came from nothing to be both Commanders in the Alliance. I know Anderson is damn proud of you Shepard. Same way I am of you Uzumaki."

"Sir." The blond said with a small appreciated smirk.

Emily stood at ease, but still respectful. "Admiral. Why are myself and my brother summoned? We don't even know the name of the frigate."

Putting his hands behind his back Hackett looks sternly. "You both will be on a shakedown run on the SSV Normandy SR-1. Captain Anderson will fill you in on the other details."

Both siblings share a surprised look. "The new advanced frigate designed by both Turians and humans. Heard that it is the fastest ship in the entire fleet. Captain Anderson commands it." Naruto spoke in shock.

On cue, the trio sees the galaxy relay open as the said ship comes into view. Emily let her curiosity get the best of her as she walked over near the glass to look at the sleek and beautiful ship. Looking back at each other the Admiral hands Naruto a pistol size case which he slips into his bag.

"Just so you know, getting that finished took effort." Hackett whispers.

"But will be worth it in the end." Naruto whispers back. "My orders admiral?"

Admiral Hackett Smirked as he tipped his hat and started off the corridor. "Check your bag when you get some rest in the Normandy, make sure everything is in order. Good luck Commander."

XxX xXx XxX

Sitting in his private room in the Normandy, Nihlus turned on his lab top as an image of a Salarian appeared.

"Ah, Kryik. How are things progressing?" The Salarian asked.

The Turian Spectre shrugs a bit, relaxing in his chair. "Shepard and Uzumaki are now on board the Normandy. We will see what people they are like."

The Salarian shakes his head. "Still, unexpected that you named two humans for a rank into the Spectres. Do these two really fascinate you that much?"

His mandibles twitch as he narrowed his eyes. "What do you really want to say, Jondum?

XxX xXx XxX

The tour of the ship was amazing. As soon as they got on board, they met Emily's teacher and Captain of the Normandy. Meeting the man for the first time, Naruto was quite impressed by Anderson's sense of honor. Their guide for the tour was the Navigator Charles Pressly, who is an acquaintance of Emily's during the Blitz. From the debriefing room, to the hanger and engineering, they both groaned seeing that damn abomination called the MAKO. The two finally settled in with two sleeping pods. Both decided to check their lockers later tomorrow.

Watching Emily fall to sleep Naruto pulled out the case the Admiral gave him. Opening it up a smile graces his lips. "Exactly as it should be, an SMG with the range of a pistol, and the effectiveness of an assault rifle. The SX-7 Eclipse eh? Catchy."

The Eclipse SMG, a newly designed prototype weapon. Before Mass Effect fields, Humans used SMG rifles all the time, but as soon as they got into space with the other races already here, their technology jumped, and so did the weapons. There were Assault Rifles, Sniper Rifles, Shotguns, and Pistols. But nothing else, not even heavy weapons.

The SMG was always a good lightweight alternative to an Assault Rifle back before Mass Effect fields and Eezo drive cores, so Humans have been thinking of ways to make the SMG a part of galactic weaponized superiority.

This particular one was very well made. It had a sleek Stock, one that was very similar to the one Kassa fabrications uses on their rifles, like their prototype the Falcon, although the Falcon was YEARS away from being completed. He only ever saw the thing backfire in the test lab when Hackett walked him through to make the SMG. It also had a bulky muzzle over the top of the gun, to maximize range and heat reduction. Lastly, it had a stock grip that could be an underside grip for more personal handling, or be snapped downward as a handle grip for more tactical precision.

"Settling in well?" Called a sudden reverberating voice, the same vibrating sound a Turian makes when they talk.

Blinking as he sits in his pod, he turns to see a Turian in Phantom Armor by the Serrice council. He had to say one thing, those Asari knew what they were doing. Meeting a few Turians in his time of service, this one has to be the tallest he ever met.

'But why is a Turian on an Alliance ship?'

"Yeah, this has to be the most beautiful ship I ever seen. Commander Naruto Uzumaki." The blond says holding out his hand.

Returning the gesture the Turian shakes his hand. "Kryik Nihlus. Council Spectre."

A Spectre?! What the hell is a Spectre doing here?

Nihlus smirks with his mandibles twitching. "By your shocked face, you're trying to figure out why I am here yes?"

Letting go of their firm handshake Naruto lifts an eyebrow. "I have been on shakedown runs before Kryik. Never had one with a Spectre on board. I don't mean any disrespect, it's just…"

"Out of place?" Kryik finished.

"Kinda, yeah." Naruto sighed.

Nihlus chuckled. "Perhaps you might figure why I am here Commander. Have a good night."

Nodding, he noticed Kryik's eyes on a sleeping Emily. "Commander Emily Shepard. Hero of the Skyllian Blitz, and awarded the Star of Terra. Heard she has been looking for the one responsible for the attack on Elysium."

Naruto snorted. "My sister can be tenacious. I almost pity the idiot if did not want to kill the bastard myself."

"You are also known for quite a feat yourself Naruto." Kryik said in an admirable tone.

The blond's eyes slowly grew distant. "Surviving while everyone else died from a pack of Thresher Maws is not a feat. It's just sheer luck and the will of the Goddess."

Nihlus tilts his head in puzzlement. Never had he seen humans accepting other species religions. "You're a Siari?"

Naruto nodded, "Found more comfort in it and in Athame. Believing in her brought me back from that nightmare. Never could find peace in any Earth religion. Not after Akuze."

Resting his claw-like hand on Naruto's shoulder the two look at each other. Looking into his eyes, Nihlus can see age in the human's eyes. Akuze changed him deeply. But he could tell it made Naruto into a better person and soldier. Even if the blond did not believe it himself.

"Good night, Commander." Kryik spoke with soft warmth.

With a nod, Naruto closed his eyes as he returned the statement. "Good night, Spectre."

XxX xXx XxX

The crew woke up bright and early, everyone preparing for the shakedown run. Naruto and Emily were among the only three to actually prepare for anything to happen. As they went to their lockers, Nihlus came in to grab his own.

Emily looked at him in confusion. "No one told me there was a Turian aboard."

Nihlus grabbed his pistol, Spectre class Stiletto, and put it on his hip before looking to Emily. "Shepard, Names Kryik Nihlus. Spectre. Technically we met when you were already in the sleep pod, but I suppose this is our first actual meeting."

Naruto wasn't distracted by Nihlus coming in and seen their equipment, and slapped his head. "Basic gear? Onyx light armor, a Kessler standard issue, a Storm standard issue, and two grenades. You're kidding me."

That got Emily's attention away from the shock of a Turian Spectre on the ship during its Shakedown run. She slammed her Locker open and groaned. "A Lancer standard issue and an Avenger standard issue."

Nihlus is puzzled by their grief. "I understand its basic gear to you, but if your respective classifications hold true, those are the weapons you are best with."

Naruto grabbed the Storm and Emily grabbed the Avenger. They looked to each other and handed the other their respective guns. Naruto put his Avenger in his locker as he grabbed his armor, and Emily did the same with her Storm before suiting up.

Nihlus was confused by this. "Infiltrators are sniping specialists, so why give your Sniper away to Naruto? And Vanguards are mostly Shotgun wielders."

Emily turned to Nihlus as she straps one leg buffer on. "Because. He's the better Sniper. I can barely hit a target at fifty feet with the thing."

The blond was locking the side straps in place to his torso padding. "And whatever I can hit with a shotgun I can do so better with a pistol, and she always beats me in a shotgun match."

Nihlus hummed at that, making sure to put a mental note for later on how well they do with the weapons not meant for their classifications.

Naruto and Emily were finally suited up before they seen Nihlus walk off. He threw over his shoulder an order. "Meet me at the Helm, we'll be hitting the Mass Relay soon."

Naruto put his Sniper Rifle on his back and the Kessler on his hip, whilst Emily put her Avenger on her other shoulder and the Shotgun along the lower part of her back. With that, they started towards the Helm.

The Helmsman started engaging his warning on their first jump as they passed the living quarters. "The Arcturus Prime Relay is in range, initiating transmission sequence."

They met the Helmsman before they slept, but didn't really get a chance to know him. All they knew was people called him Joker. The two Commanders finally reached the Helm where Nihlus was waiting, as they seen the Mass Relay closing in.

Joker flew through the controls for the ship effortlessly. "We are connected. Calculating Mass and Destination, the Relay is hot." Naruto and Emily seen him at work, and were impressed. The Helmsman was effortlessly steering the ship at the right angle with little to no room for error, as if he was able to think the ship to do something.

Nihlus may not be showing his own impressions, but was truly in wonder at a Humans ability to control the ship when its Core was way more massive than a normal Frigate was supposed to have, with several higher thrust values against the light weight vessel. Not to mention, it still had Turian designs, so a human wouldn't know much about controlling the hull of a Turian designed frigate without severe training, especially to this degree.

Joker finalized the vector for approach and secured all stations for transit through the Relay. "Hitting the Relay in Three..." The Relay was huge in the front window as Joker shifted the ship to the side. "Two..." He engaged the Mass Effect Fields to gain access to the Relay network. "One." In a sharp acceleration, the Normandy shot through space with speed faster than light can travel.

The Initial jump was a pulse back for everyone, a small jolt, but that was expected of a Frigate hitting FTL speeds. A Dreadnaught needed everyone sitting and strapped in for their jump, making it more difficult for them to proceed without caution.

As the ship settled to a smooth cruise, Joker listed off the systems and their conditions. "Thrusters are green. Navigation is online and functional. Internal emissions sink is activated, and stealth drives are online. Drift is under fifteen hundred K."

To say the three behind him were impressed beyond belief was a small understatement. Nihlus, however, was always good at showing his poker face. "Fifteen hundred is good. Your Captain will be pleased."

Nihlus turned and walked off, hoping to keep his cool. Joker seen Nihlus do this and turned back to his controls. "I hate that guy."

A man beside him, by the name of Kaiden Alenko, who they met when putting their off duty civvies in the bottom locker, was a Lieutenant. He was sitting by Joker helping with weapon systems when he heard that comment and turned to see Joker. "Nihlus gave you a compliment. So, you hate him?"

Joker got defensive after that. "You remember to zip up your jumpsuit when coming out of the bathroom that is good, I just jumped us from one Relay to another without hitting any other relays, which is the equivalent of hitting a fly in London from New York with a shotgun, so that is incredible."

Naruto gave a soft chuckle to that, which brought a smile from Joker. He continued before Kaiden could ruin the good mood. "Besides, Spectres are trouble. Call me paranoid."

Kaiden was quick as a whip with that one. "You're paranoid." Emily managed to quietly snicker, which only Naruto could hear. "The Council helped fund this project, they have the right to send someone to oversee their investment."

Joker seen the Normandy start to drift a bit too much to the left and corrected instantly. "That is the official story, but only an idiot believes the official story."

Naruto knows that all too well. Officially, he was a horrible Commander for allowing his whole squad killed. Truthfully, even though he felt it was true he made the call and it was his fault, he was not a bad Commander for something like a Thresher Maw attack and a Batarian raid. Even the most skilled Admirals might have had trouble keeping their troops. It wasn't exactly the best mission for survival.

Emily is the one to comment on this. "Even if the official story is a cover-up, there's no reason to send a Spectre on a shakedown run. Any other officer, or even half the crew being Turian would have been a good scenario. Something is not right."

Joker looked to Kaiden once he corrected course. "That's an understatement. It's an occupational hazard to always assume the worst, and when it comes to Spectres, the worst is always what comes around."

The Captain came on the comms. "Joker, Status report."

Joker linked up his comm. "Just settled in from our jump, Captain, Stealth Systems ready to be engaged on your mark."

The Captain was happy about that. "Good, Find a comm buoy and link us to the Brass, Better to start mission reports before we hit Eden Prime."

Naruto and Emily both looked to each other in surprise and confusion. Shakedown run with a Spectre to the most peaceful world in the human's colony list, with only the most basic gear? There was something horribly wrong here. They were only ever called for big missions, and to have something like this go down, it was hard to believe the official story at all.

They were so busy in shock, they didn't hear Joker disrespect Nihlus. But got the gist of it as Anderson replied in an annoyed tone. "He's already here, Lieutenant. Tell the Commanders Uzumaki and Shepard to meet me in the Comm Room for a debriefing."

Joker looks back. "Got that you two?"

Naruto nodded, and Emily turned, knowing Anderson enough to know when he thinks there is trouble. "He sounds angry. Something must have gone wrong with the mission."

The blond Commander followed her and Joker scoffed. "He's always mad when he is talking to me." Luckily, Kaiden's comment was unheard by the two Commanders.

As the two were heading through corridor of crewmen on the supplementary systems, they heard Pressly speaking to someone on the comms. "I'm telling you he looks like he is ready for war! He just stormed passed with a look of purpose in his eyes."

The answer coming back was nonchalant. "He's a Spectre, He's always expecting war, and going out to prevent it. It's their job."

Pressly sighs heavily. "And we are along for the ride into his war. I don't like being kept in the dark."

As the answer comm from the other guy, Emily turned to Naruto. "I'll handle him. Go on, tell them I will meet them there."

She comes over to Pressly as Naruto went ahead. "Sounds like you don't trust our Turian guest."

Pressly turns and salutes. "Oh, hello ma'am, sorry about that, just a chat with engineer Adams." Then he processed the question. "And you know why I don't like Turians, Shepard. But the reason I don't trust him on this is more than that, it's because he is a Spectre. Their top Covert Op specialists who answer to no one but the Council, and here we are, the first time taking the Normandy on a mission, which is supposed to be balance and testing its new drive core and stealth systems, a Shakedown run if you will, and there is a TURIAN Spectre on board, they don't send their best unless there's something big going on, and this new drive core isn't it. I was helping with an Asari vessel a few years back that was incorporating lighter armor and smaller core for a bigger ship, no Spectres to be seen."

Emily nodded at that, understanding his concern. "I have the same feeling about this mission... Me AND Naruto? In basic gear? To Eden Prime? It would normally sound like a vacation, but to add a Spectre, with Captain Anderson, on the most advanced Frigate to date. There's something they are not telling us. But we can't question orders. Just keep your mind sharp, and expect the worst, if anything goes wrong we need everyone at their best."

The balding Navigation Officer saluted. "Yes ma'am."

Emily started walking to the Comm Room. "And Pressly, I told you. That war was long ago, so do not blame Nihlus for it." She didn't wait for him to salute, just knowing he would. She seen Naruto talking to the Doctor and another soldier just outside the Comm Room, and was overhearing their conversation.

Naruto turns to the Soldier. "Jenkins, just remember, this is just another mission, so do not be playing the Hero. We are a squad, we don't go solo. We might get action, we might not, but that should not make you do anything stupid."

Jenkins salutes, and nodded. "I guess you got a point, Commander, thanks for the Pep talk."

Commander Uzumaki nodded and turned to the doctor. "And you take care of yourself. If Jenkins does get in over his head, we need the best doctor around. That has always and forever will be you, Doctor Chakwas."

Chakwas smiled, and shook Naruto's hand. "I'll try. And I am glad to see you are still doing well. I would never be the same if my favorite patient got killed in combat. I don't need another Akuze."

Emily smiled and pulls Naruto's arm. "Come on, We're keeping Anderson waiting."

The blond followed and they entered the Comm Room, but Anderson was nowhere to be seen. Nihlus was the only one here, and as they stepped up, he turned. "Shepard, Uzumaki. Glad you could join me."

Naruto nodded. "Had to calm an eager corporal."

Emily looked around. "Where's Anderson?"

Nihlus smiled. "He's on his way, but I figured we could have a chat before he did, all three of us."

Naruto was not a fan of playing mind games, or being played by them. Joking was ok, pranks sure, but mind games was something Marcus and his gang always did, so he wasn't about to let anyone play with his. "You know as well as I do, that this isn't normal. A Frigate, on a shakedown run, to a peaceful planet, with a Turian Spectre on board? I respect you, but I won't play with you."

The Turian Spectre hummed at that, impressed. Emily crossed her arms. "Besides, I and Naruto only ever get called together for the really hard missions. Standard gear? Something is not right."

Nihlus grew more impressed. "And most would say Humans aren't ready to face the Galaxy. With the helmsman of Joker's skill, and two Commanders with their skills and intelligence, it's a wonder they haven't already gotten into the Spectres. Well, now is their chance, and they are already climbing over the expectations."

Nihlus stood with his arms behind him. "I think it's time we tell these two what is truly going on. Don't you, Anderson?"

As Anderson comes in, Naruto and Emily turned and saluted. "At ease. And I agree with Nihlus, we won't have much time to talk when we hit Eden Prime."

Emily knows that tone. She had been a part of some blind missions before under Anderson. "So everyone being on edge isn't just a coincidence. This isn't a Shakedown run."

Nihlus smirks. "Oh, it is one, but it is so much more."

Anderson nodded. "We're making a Covert pickup on Eden Prime, straight from the top, this is the reason we needed our Stealth Systems online as a priority."

The blond commander looked over to him. "So we're a human vessel hiding from a human colony to pick up something we have already? There's more to this than you are telling us."

Anderson smiled. "Emily always said you were smart. This comes down from the top, so it's a need-to-know basis only, that's a given. But, you are in that group. Eden Prime Excavation groups found something with galactic importance, something Prothean."

Emily looked surprised. "You're kidding, sir. Prothean? As in the race that died out over fifty thousand years ago Prothean? Last time we found something of that magnitude, we went from fossil fuel engines to faster than light travel engines."

Nihlus chuckles. "And this is more important for not only Humanity, but for the rest of the Galaxy. So, we need to make sure it gets to safety, and fast. So this was the most ideal vessel."

Naruto looked down in thought, cupping his chin. "Sharing this with the council will help improve relations. We still are new to the whole alien species politics idea, the First Contact war wasn't exactly helpful with first impressions."

Nihlus nodded and came up to them both. "The Beacon isn't the only reason I am aboard this vessel. There is also the matter of you two."

That got their attention. Anderson smiled widely. "Nihlus is here to see you both in action. He will be evaluating you both for a very special promotion."

Emily looked surprised, but Naruto was shocked. He could understand Emily getting one, but him? After Akuze, he knew he was going to stay Commander forever. "What do you mean by that? There's nothing about me that says I need Spectre's looking over my shoulder."

Anderson looked to Naruto and frowned. "You've been given a chance for something special. Humanity has been trying to get someone in the Spectre ranks that is from our species. If we can get one of our own in, it'll show how far we gave come, seeing as how the Spectres are the Council's power and authority."

Nihlus looks the two siblings; "Shepard, you shown courage and skill in the Blitz, the tenacity to never give up, and the will to push forward even against all odds, it's a very good trait to have."

Emily beams proudly at that. Nihlus turns to the Uzumaki. "Akuze may very well have been a terrible wrinkle in your record, but to go through something so terrible and come out standing tall, you show a remarkable will to survive, and have the skills to push forward against all odds. A very useful talent indeed. I put both of your names forward for Spectre status."

Naruto looked to Nihlus and had a calculating look. "Why put our names forward? Most Turians resent us. And it's not like our own behavior is any better."

His Mandibles twitching, Nihlus hummed. "I am not like the more closed minded of my kind. I doubt you are either, being a Siari. Not all Turians hate Humanity, and I know not all Humans hate Turians. I don't give a damn what gender or species you two are, all I care about is that you two have every skill a Spectre needs. And it's VERY rare for us to find that. This is why I am going to be watching the both of you. I need to see these skills and talents myself, but I have every hope for you two."

Naruto and Emily look to each other and both smiled. They stood at attention and saluted, and in Unison agreed. "We shall give it our all!"

The captain nods at that and looked to Nihlus. "We should be getting close to Eden Prime, if Joker's course is stable."

As if on cue, Joker came on the comms. "Captain, we got trouble! Emergency distress beacon was set off by Eden Prime just five minutes ago, we didn't get it until now, something must have blocked their communications, or it got delayed until we started getting close. Either way, you should see this distress call they sent just now."

Naruto narrowed his eyes. "Put it on screen, Joker, pronto!"

They step forward and the screen came to life. What they saw Made Naruto cover his mouth, flashbacks of Akuze hitting him as he seen the slaughter on the battlefield that some soldiers were desperate to get away from but couldn't.

When the video ended, Joker told them that that was it, it got cut off after that. Anderson thought a moment. "Go back, 38.5 and pause." Joker rewound the video to that point and stopped, and what they saw was humongous in size, what looked like fingers or something like tendrils coming from the ash and smoke with energy writhing along it.

Nihlus was having a bad feeling about this, his Mandibles quivering along his cheeks.

Anderson glares. "This mission just got a lot more complicated."

Naruto turns and starts to leave. "I'll lead a team in a small cover operation, save as many people we can, Emily, you and Nihlus need to get that Beacon with whoever is left."

Nihlus was about to speak out when Emily followed. "Sorry, Naruto and I will take care of ground troops. Anyone left alive we can save, and we will meet you at the Beacon. We'll try to draw their forces to give you clear passage."

She left as well. Nihlus chuckles at this before looking at Anderson. "I suppose my expertise is moot at this point."

Anderson shrugs and they went down to the cargo hold. Naruto, Jenkins, Kaiden, and Emily were finalizing their preparations. Naruto slapped his SMG along his back where a Shotgun would be, and put his helmet on. Kaiden and Jenkins were suiting up as Emily was putting her Omni tool on. Naruto went with his suits basic functions for now, seeing as no one bothered to suit him up with a good Omni Tool.

Joker calls their approach to the surface, and Anderson came up to the four soldiers. "Alright, listen up, Nihlus will be heading straight for the Beacon. Your mission is to meet him there when you have moved through the last known location of any survivors, and help get them to a safe landing point for us to pick up. Naruto, you take point."

Naruto cocked his Sniper rifle, nodding. "Good to go!"

Jenkins looked over to see Nihlus grabbing his Shotgun, and seen him by himself. "Nihlus, you aren't coming with us?"

Nihlus checked to make sure his Shotgun was activated, and looked back. "I move faster on my own. Besides, Naruto and Emily aren't slouches, you'll make it through this Corporal."

The hangar bay doors opened up and Nihlus ran fast, jumping out. Anderson turned to everyone after seeing that. "Primary objective is to keep moving towards the beacon, searching for any and all survivors, do not divert from the route best to get you there, Civilians are not our major concern. If the enemy gets that beacon, this mission is a failure. Good luck!"

Anderson left and the Normandy landed in a safe zone near where Nihlus jumped into combat. Naruto and his group shuffled out instantly. As the Normandy lifted back off, Naruto was looking around through his Sniper scope, seeing no one nearby. "Clear!"

Emily kept her Shotgun out as Jenkins held his Rifle close, Kaiden using his Pistol. They started going forward when Kaiden saw these bloated alien creatures. "What the hell are those?"

Jenkins looks to him. "Gas-bags. Don't worry their harmless.."

The team kept a sharp eye as they saw a clearing to go through. Jenkins saw charred bodies and covered his mouth. "Oh god... What happened to these people?"

Kaiden looks on grimly; "This place smells like death and smoke."

Emily bent down and checked real quickly. "Quick deaths, no pain. Shot through the head and heart, charred later."

Coming on the comms, Nihlus spoke. 'Whoever this enemy is, they hit the place hard. I'll scout up ahead, but be wary. Whoever they are, they have drones circling around the area.'

Naruto nodded. "Copy that. Guys, we better move, Drones are patrolling, and we better find survivors and a position fast."

They start through a small passageway, and as they came to a cliff and clearing, Naruto stopped, and heard whirring nearby. He stopped and held a hand up making a fist, and everyone dropped. He looked out and seen nothing ahead.

Emily tapped Jenkins shoulder and pointed forward, and he nodded. Jenkins moved forward, but as he did, Naruto heard the whirring become louder and seen drones swiping to come in from beyond the Cliff. "Shit!"

As they start firing at Jenkins, Naruto activates his Biotics. Jenkins was shot multiple times with the drone fire, tearing straight through his shields without hesitation, but Naruto was quick to save the eager young soldier, using his red Biotics to pull Jenkins back behind cover.

Emily activated her Omni tool and used a simple command to override one of the two drones, making it swerve and crash into the cliff. The other was swerving in for the kill on Jenkins, but Naruto sniped it away with his first shot, and blew it up with a second right in the lens.

Naruto runs up with Kaiden as Emily went to the cliff, looking all around. Naruto seen Jenkins was injured badly, a shot to the shoulder, another to the stomach, and two in his right leg. "Damn it, this isn't good. Kaiden, you got medical training?"

Kaiden nodded and applied Medi-gel to the affected areas of scorched flesh, making Jenkins scream in pain. Naruto quickly slapped his hand over Jenkins mouth. After the pain died down and Jenkins finally stopped screaming, Naruto let go of his mouth, hailing the Normandy. "Normandy, Jenkins is wounded. Need immediate pick up at this spot later. Kaiden, you take care of Jenkins, ok?"

Before Kaiden could agree, Emily grabbed her Assault rifle. "INCOMING!" She fired off suddenly and Naruto started sniping. "GO!" Kaiden nodded and hauled Jenkins back to cover as Emily overloaded another Drone, and got behind cover. Naruto fired four shots, killing one and damaging another before his weapon overheated.

Naruto flares his biotic power and caused a Singularity that smashed the other two to nothing. Emily overloaded the last one before the danger stopped. Naruto kept a keen eye through his scope as his Sniper was overheated, his Biotics still flaring. "Clear."

Naruto ejected his first spent Thermal clip, and stuffed a new one in. Emily seen her Assault Rifle was clearly heated to capacity, only a couple more shots before stopping so she did the same. Naruto started moving up, keeping his Sniper forward. Emily followed close as they went through small forage.

The two see some movement ahead and Naruto glared through his Sniper. "Friendly!" Emily turned and looked to see someone tuck behind a rock in front of them, and further along were two beings they only heard about in stories. They looked like machines, shaped like bi-ped species, and had flashlights for eyes, and they see them spike live humans on large jutting spikes.

Naruto gets into good position as he took careful aim. "Emily, get down there and protect the colonist!" Emily nodded and ran forward, which caught the attention of the machines ahead.

Naruto fires without hesitation, clocking one right in the eye before he could activate his shields, but two more came from further ahead as the other one he saw jumped behind cover.

Emily got behind cover and looked to the Soldier. "Commander Emily Shepard, SSV Normandy, We're here to help!"

The woman nods. "Gunnery Chief Ashley Williams, Stationed here weeks ago, part of the 212... What's left of it anyway..."

Emily nodded. "When I say go, you fire at the first thing you see when peeking beyond cover, and I will fire at the same target. GO!"

Ashley peeked out and seen one machine start coming up and she fired quickly, just pulling the trigger and letting bullets fly as Emily did the same behind her. The machine fell easily, shields gone and body ripped to shreds. Naruto managed to catch another machine peeking out, and Ashley saw the bullet hit right in the eye of those things. She turned to see a man on the hill with a Sniper and smiled. "Glad you two are on my side!"

She looks beside her only to see no one. "Where she go?" She peeked out and seen Emily get in close and blast another machine's head off with her Shotgun. After a look around, Emily came back and gestured Naruto over.

The Soldier sighed and holstered her rifle as she leaned against the rock. Emily and Naruto came up. Naruto keeping his Sniper handy. "Naruto Uzumaki, Commander, and leader of the strike team. Two of our men are behind us, one wounded. You?"

Ashley smiled and stood straight, saluting. "Gunnery Chief Ashley Williams. Only survivor of my squad. Sorry we couldn't meet under better circumstances. Anything you need me to do just say so."

XxX xXx XxX

Well here you go! Damn, this took forever... I and Arch-Daishou were working around the clock to get this done. I started the story with Emily and Naruto meeting in the station before the Normandy as well as the meeting with the three humans and Nihlus. I also went from waking up from those sleep pods to the end where we meet Ashley. Arch-Daishou handled the earthborn history, as well as the tour of the Normandy and meeting Nihlus.

Merry Christmas everyone, I hope you enjoy, because this chapter is SUPER long, longer than even my Liger ninja chapters. And that's saying something. Before we go, Arch-Daishou, have anything to say to the audience?

Arch-Daishou: Hope you all enjoy this unique story. I am also the one that made Naruto a religious person. For anyone to face something like Akuze anyone would be shaken to their core of their soul. And the life Naruto came from on Earth, our favorite blond would not be one for faith. This is why I turned Naruto into a Siari believer. As for the red Biotics… Not telling. Have a good a solstice!