Ryker was gone. It felt like the whole world was collapsing around her, and that all the air in her lungs was being taken way...this wasn't real...it couldn't be real.

One thing she knew, she was not done with Cerberus, not by a long shot. And as for Ryker's mother...she will find her.

A week had passed since the love of her life had died...and they were gathered here in the Councilors chamber to honor and tribute Ryker for a life commended of an N7 operative.

They managed to clear Ryker's name and reinstate her to N7 status...a little late but at least her honor would live on.

Le'Nassia looked around the room as they had holos of Ryker on the banners, and she wasn't sure she could do this...a hand came up and grabbed hers, she turned to look at who it belonged to and Naru stood there looking up at the banners with her. Le'Nassia didn't say anything but gripped Naru's hand tighter.

They continued to the ceremony together in silence.

They listened to Hackett give a speech about bravery, selflessness, and honor...just to name a few ways to describe this fantastic being...but she didn't need to hear what others said about Ryker...she knew Ryker and no one will ever be able to replace her.

At the end of the ceremony she looked at Naru, “thank you.. thank you for being here...for her...and for me.”

“Nassia, I know she loved you and you loved her...as did I...she was a good person and my friend...she will be missed...Keelah si Lai.”

Le'Nassia walked to the balcony at their home on Thessia...she had come home with her mother to be around family while she grieved and worked on looking for Ryker's mother so she could find a way to pay back what she lost...and she was close to finding her but the lead ran dry.

It's been almost 2 weeks since she lost Ryker and not a day goes by that she doesn't think of her…she will always have her with her…

...and because of miracles a piece of her will remain with her always...in 9 months, their daughter will know how great her father was.

And wherever Ryker was now, she'd watch over them that she knew for sure...she thought about how blessed she was with this, rubbing her belly...looking off into the Thessia sunsets.

“One day, I promise...I will fulfill your wish, and our dream...and I will go somewhere where no one knows us...just us... together... always….

Siame