The Reapers. What if we just said "fuck that" and cut them from the script? Well, that's my intention here. I'm mixing up Shepard's backstory to the max to try and add on to the gritty side of what falling through the cracks really feels like. Akuze, the Skillian Blitz and the Ruthless origins are all cannon in this personal AU, as well as the Mindoir and Orphan, except instead of being an Orphan on Earth, its Omega. I feel like the space kid is a little too idyllic for what I'm going for. Not to mention I plan on Shepard being a bit on the older side. How long would it take for a disillusioned Commander Shepard to finally cut the red tape and leave the Alliance? Who all will Shepard meet now that the Reapers are out of the picture, not forcing the script in to a funnel? Will she still make friends with our beloved Mass Effect cast? Or will they go completely different routes? Let's find out.