Inheriting the Throne

Mordred's time in the Mass Effect world had passed quickly. According to Yinsen's calculations, the "plot" over there should have already run its course.

He did not go over to pick up Mordred. He merely sent her a message, reminding her that she could return.

The results of any assessment no longer mattered. Once Mordred had lived safely until Yinsen deemed the time appropriate, the result was already clear. He believed she had also accomplished the goals she had set for herself during that time.

Mordred's reply soon arrived: "I'm ready!"

Based on Mordred's location, Yinsen opened a transport passage. Then he saw Mordred return to Venus with Galahad, Duke, and the others under her command.

He looked over the people behind Mordred and found that their numbers had dwindled considerably. Aside from familiar faces like Duke, Ana, and Storm Shadow, only four veteran soldiers remained.

"So many fewer people?"

Was the Mass Effect world really that dangerous? Mordred's strength should not have allowed her subordinates to suffer such severe losses, right?

Mordred helplessly shook her head and gave a simple reply. "Some left the team midway, some were bought off and turned around to deal with me, and then there were casualties..."

Yinsen nodded. It seemed the reasons for the reduced numbers were complicated and not purely combat losses. That was understandable.

Everyone had their own thoughts and faced countless choices at every moment. Some chose to continue down the path laid out before them; others chose a different road.

Yinsen had no particular opinion on that. Everyone had the right to choose, but they also had to bear the consequences brought about by every choice.

He glanced at the few veterans remaining behind Mordred and wondered whether she felt frustrated.

Even among those who remained, not all were