This is my first attempt at a FanFict – so I'd really appreciate feedback. Honesty appreciated!
Here's the standard disclaimer – all characters belong to Bioware – thanks for letting me borrow them for a bit.
Chapter 1
Commander Terran Shepard anxiously donned her full dress uniform and quickly glanced in the mirror at her haggard expression. After all the reports, debriefings and ceremonies following their victory, the last thing she wanted to do was meet privately with the Asari High Councilor, Shi'ara. But that was also a request the tired commander could not refuse.
On her way to the patched up Citadel Tower, Shepard had to dodge work crews determinedly repairing walkways and bridges. There was much work to do in rebuilding the damaged Citadel and this time, it would have to be done without the Keepers, all of whom had been unceremoniously destroyed.
That had been her first task, quickly completed. Chorban and Jahleed had been most helpful with that – their detailed data on the Keepers had made their location and destruction that much easier. Shepard was glad that she had assisted their effort early on, that work had proved very beneficial in the end. No longer would the enigmatic workers be able to activate the Citadel relays or assist the Reapers in any way.
Arriving at the Councilor's chambers, Shepard's unease increased. She could not think of any reason for this unexpected request.
"Oh, well" she thought, "there's only one way to find out."
The door was answered by a diminutive servant who escorted her into a comfortable lounge area and quietly retreated.
"Commander Shepard," a soft, yet firm voice echoed from the hallway,
"I fully appreciate your coming to see me, especially on such short notice." The Asari Council Seat was tall and slender as were many of her species, with a commanding air that almost demanded respect.
"Please, make yourself comfortable, I do have a rather unusual request."
"Great," Shepard thought, "another search and find mission – just what I need right now." She quickly started of thinking of creative ways to decline.
"I trust in your discretion in this matter," the Asari tentatively began, seemingly choosing her words with great care.
"I have read all your reports and have found them to be most informative. However, I wish to hear of your mission on Noveria in more detail, particularly of your conflict with Matriarch Benezia." Again, the Councilor hesitated, then seemed to come to a decision.
"Benezia was close friend and I knew her well" Shi'ara started, "I do not understand how she could have betrayed us." The words came out as a quiet plea, the Councilor's eyes downcast.