As the Smoke Cleared
The red light faded. The Reapers had finally been destroyed. Commander Christian James Shepard awoke, breathing heavily as he lay in the rubble of the once mighty Citadel. Commander! Commander Shepard! A voice called out in the distance. Somebody, get me a stretcher! I've found the Commander in critical condition! The world once again faded into darkness as Shepard faded back into an unconscious state.
Shepard opened his eyes. He was in a small, cozy hospital room with a window overlooking a ruined street. A familiar face came into the room. "It's nice to see you awake, Commander", she said in a heavy, French accent. Shepard managed a small smile, though it took a great effort just to move the muscles in his face. "It's good to be alive, Dr. Michel". Dr. Chloe Michel seemed to tremble with sheer joy. "I... I can hardly believe it. Of course, there... there is someone who will be even... h-happier to see you". Dr. Michel knew that she was stuttering like an absolute fool, but how could she not. It was, after all, the great Commander Shepard. "In fact, I think that I will go and fetch her now". Shepard didn't exactly have the energy to laugh, but if he did, then he would have gone hysterical. Instead, he just let out a small chuckle as Dr. Michel hurried excitedly towards the waiting room.
Dr. Michel entered the waiting room, panting and, in fact, sweating as well. "M-Miss Lawson? The Commander... h-he's awake". At tall, slim, and beautiful woman stood up, her blue eyes dilated, shining like gleaming sapphires. He jet black hair was somewhat disheveled, and it was clear that she had slept at the hospital overnight. Nevertheless, Miranda Lawson was a marvel of genetic engineering: the perfect human female. If any woman was gorgeous enough to be in a relationship with the galactic savior, it was her. Miranda quickly greeted Dr. Michel and then rushed to see Shepard. The doctor practically fainted out of pure excitement and joy and a group of nurses rushed to her aid.
Shepard could barely believe his eyes as Miranda entered with tears of joy. It was one thing that he was still alive, but to be visited by Miranda? "I thought that I was going to go and find you, not the other way around". Miranda intertwined her hands with his, grinning and crying simultaneously. "I doubt it was first change of plans that you've ever been faced with". He laughed, having finally mustered the required energy to do so. "It's anything but the first time. I love you, Miranda". Miranda's makeup was in a mess as she leaned in and embraced Shepard. "I love you too". She and Shepard cuddled on the small hospital bed as they discussed their future: marriage, home, and children (who would probably be adopted due to Miranda's infertility), as well as Shepard's retirement. In all honesty, Shepard was ready to settle down and spend the rest of his days with Mrs. Miranda Lawson Shepard. Shepard could not be any happier because he knew well that the galaxy was starting anew, without the treat of the Reapers, as the smoke cleared...