These stories are not strictly canon.
Like, my Shep has her own story, and she in a relationship with Kasumi, hence it was imperative that she stay on-board the Normandy. Also, I've read some fics which involve Garrus' sister, so I thought I could try and explore a role for her.
Comments, criticism and ideas much appreciated!
-'The impressions of a Primarch' and 'Saving the Vakarians'-
Elia Albarn Shepard greatly surprised Adrien Victus. He supposed he shouldn't be, really. Anyone with her kind of experience was bound to be something… something mythical in their galaxy. Probably.
He considered what her work history would read like. Mentally, he went over what he knew of her, from intel reports, from Vakarian's endorsements and from his own brief interactions with her. "Completed the galaxy's toughest military training program - the N7, in one hundred and sixty seven days flat, less than a sixth of the average time it took to complete the program. (Damn, that was impressive. Victus had read reports of the training; it was so brutal even the Blackwatch respected those that received the commendation) The Butcher of Torfan. The first human Spectre. Savior of the Citadel. Destroyer of the Collectors. Stopped the genesis of a human Reaper. Destroyed the Alpha Relay to stop the Arrival."
There were several other less famous exploits, but no none of them were any less notable for their difficulty of execution. This woman had made a career out of doing the impossible. He suspected he wasn't the first to reach that conclusion. He could see why Garrus and the rest held her in such high regard.
He was brought out of his reverie by the Specialist who had been assigned to integrating and customizing his data-feeds so that he could keep up with the situation on Palaven. She seemed to have finished.
"It should be done, sir", she said.
She spoke in an accent that quite sounded different from Shepard.
"My thanks, Specialist…."
"Traynor, sir. Samantha Traynor."
"My thanks, Specialist Traynor."
"Quite welcome, sir. Though, you can just call me Sam if you like. Commander Shepard will be here with you shortly, though I believe it will only be a brief visit. I heard that she had an important mission to get done while she was around Palaven."
"Er, Specialist...Sam. You refer to Shepard as 'Commander'. She led me to believe that she refused a rank in the Alliance, and is working as a consultant?"
"I'd say she's a god-damn hero, sir. Only, it wouldn't be appropriate to call her that every moment of the day, would it. We wouldn't even be alive if it weren't for all she's done for us over the years. Her crew, too. People like Garrus Vakarian, Liara T'Soni, her little sister, Elisira, even Cerberus operatives like Miranda Lawson... Anyone who's ever served on her squads - they're all legends in our military. As to why we call her by her previous rank, it is probably because it fits, I suppose. She commandeers the Normandy, easily the most advanced warship in the galaxy, not just because of the ship herself, but also considering the combat squad on-board. The Commander tried correcting us at first, but gave up after a while and just let it go. Most of the crew weren't comfortable calling her by her name. Maybe, it's an Alliance thing? Anyway, it stuck. She's 'Commander' to the us, whether she likes it or not. Members of her squad have their own versions of address, though. Most of them just call her 'El', from what I've heard. But, none of us riff-raff are close enough to her to do that."
Samantha laughed as the Primarch himself chuckled.
Then, she took on a business-like tone as she said, "Now, I'd like to tell you how this works…"
Victus listened attentively as Traynor explained how he could get what he needed on the ship. She also gave him the communication codes to get in touch with Shepard, Garrus or she herself, when he was within the ship. She also gave him clearance to walk in and out of the war room, and promised to give him a tour later if he needed it, though she mentioned that Shepard would probably want to cover that herself.
Presently, she said she had work to catch up on, and to contact her if he needed anything. Victus nodded his thanks and set to work, familiarizing himself with the room and the information he could access.
After a time, Shepard entered the war room. She looked around and found the Primarch at one of the side terminals. Traynor had presumably linked the turian datafeeds for him there, so that he could keep track of the state of his brothers and sisters. He was a man who truly cared for his people.
Shepard walked up to him.
"So, Primarch, settling in?", she asked.
She was dressed in a hoodie and military slacks.
Victus was a bit taken aback by her clothing. He quickly hid his surprise, and pushed his mind to other matters. It was her ship after all. Damned if he was going to question this particular human. He wanted to avoid being on her bad side as far as possible.
"Yes, Commander. Thank you for providing me use of this room and for everything your specialist set up. I enjoyed chatting with her."
"Sam is quite capable. Tell her if you need anything else set up in here. We could think of only so much in such a short time. Well, I've actually the time to only say hello and welcome you aboard our little circus. There are some rather urgent duties I've to get squared away. So, I do not want to sound inhospitable, and I'm really itching to talk to you more, give you the tour, and all that...but that'll have to wait for a bit. Sorry if that looks like a slight, but please do believe me when I say I mean nothing by it."
She smiled apologetically.
"I understand completely, Commander. You're running this whole war effort for all of us. I can't begin to fathom how much more difficult your job is", said Victus, in a tone that he hoped would reassure her.
He understood the pressure she was under, and wasn't going to make her feel guilty over a trifling matter such as this. He wasn't a bloody politician, after all!
"I promise I'll be back soon, though. I'd like to hear more about your exploits", she said, smiling at him.
"Oh, I'm sure your stories are a lot more extraordinary", said Victus, laughing.
"Most of my missions were accomplished with small squads, and they still are. You've led armies into battle."
"You will, too. Soon enough. Garrus said that you're the only one who can unite them all. After what I've seen and read of you, I'm inclined to believe his judgement."
"Thanks for the vote of confidence. I do sincerely hope that it won't be unfounded. And it means that I have a vested interest in talking to you more later, then. Nothing like learning from one of the best", she said.
Victus had to laugh again. "I certainly hope I can be of some assistance."
He thought for a bit, and said, "Actually, there is one pressing matter I'd like to discuss with you. It is of some urgency, and I might forget later, so I would like to get your thoughts on it. Like I said on Menae, I would honestly like to help you as much as possible, and to that end, if you would require any more operatives in your squad for your missions, I maybe able to offer you aid on that front. I couldn't personally help much, of course. I'm too old for your type of missions and even at my peak, I doubt I could have kept up. However, we do have dossiers on some of our very best that I can provide to you. If you so wish, I would be happy to transfer them to your command."
"That's a very kind offer, Primarch. Actually, I might have to take you up on that. I've my eye on just one particular operative, though", said Shepard.
"Who did you have in mind?"
"Actually, that's part of the reason I'm rushing at the moment. We have another extraction to do. I'll be taking the shuttle to Palaven for it. The Commander of a certain Turian Blackwatch squad is related quite closely to Garrus."
"Ah yes. His sister. Lieutenant Commander Solana Vakarian. She's one of our most talented."
"Yeah, she's the one. We'll be extracting her and Garrus' parents. I'll probably ask her to join my crew. Her skills will certainly be valuable on my missions. And if she agrees, then I may need your authorization."
"Yes. Most certainly. May I ask you whether this extraction is purely in the interests of your mission?"
Shepard considered Victus for a moment, and shrugged.
"I don't believe in being politically correct. I'm not going to start now, and I think you can handle an honest answer. So, let me give it to you. Garrus is a valued friend. He's like a brother to me. The man even tried to stop us from doing this, but I know my crew. We've also followed his little sister's exploits closely for a good while. I truly do believe that she could be a valuable addition to my team. But, I'm doing this more for Garrus' peace of mind. And this is something I'd do this for any one of my crew. They're all my family, some biologically, and others by association. I owe it to every one of them for having my back."
Victus was surprised by her frankness. "I appreciate the candor, Commander. It tells me a lot about your principles, when you're willing to sacrifice so much for your squadmates."
"I'll take that as a compliment, Primarch. Even if you did not mean it as such, I am not ashamed to admit that I'd do anything for my crew. They're all willing to walk into hell and back for me, and I will do every bit I can for them in return."
Shepard spoke with a curious intensity, similar to the way she'd spoken to the Primarch to convince him to leave Menae.
"Again, Commander, I apologize. Rest assured that I meant it as a compliment. It is a little difficult to convey signals native to our own species across races."
Shepard laughed. "You needn't tell me. I've had plenty of experience."
Victus laughed as well. Suddenly, Joker's voice boomed over the comm. "Shepard, Destination Palaven, ETA 15 minutes. Cortez is readying the shuttle. Who'd you like to get suited up?"
"Hmm, Garrus, EDI, and Javik on this one. Eli, as well. Better get Sumi along too, if she's up and about. Otherwise, I won't hear the end of it. She was pretty peeved that we were on Menae while she was napping. Ask Cortez to put in some heavy armaments. I have a feeling we'll need it."
"Understood. And, you sure about EDI, Commander."
"EDI has to answer that one."
"Joker's worries are unfounded, Shepard. This platform will be ready and waiting at the shuttle", chimed in the voice of the Normandy's AI.
"Understood, EDI. You heard the girl, Joker."
"Yes, Commander", said Joker, unable to hide the worry from his voice.
-0-
Solana Vakarian was not in a good mood. It may be a good time to toss in some information about her. It was commented by several high-ranking members of the Blackwatch that she was quite possibly the most talented infiltrator ever to have been inducted into its ranks. She had risen to the rank of Commander at the very young age of 23. Her battle style relied heavily on her enhanced customized optical camouflage cloak. She was a hand-to-hand specialist, and could slice most any enemy with her trusty modified omni-blade. She was a crack-shot with a pistol and a decent sniper. And there were also the remotely detonatable mines she favored carrying over grenades - unobtrusive, but quite destructive. She was not in a good mood because her left leg was broken.
Her brother had been appointed 'The Expert Advisor on the Reaper Forces' about a week prior, and she'd immediately made her way to the Helos Medical Institute to ensure the safe transport of her ailing mother to their estate in Palaven. The Institute was closing operations, its doctors were being reposted to various hospitals around the galaxy to aid the war effort. They'd arrived at their home just about ten hours before the Reapers started tearing into Palaven.
It had been two days since then. The casualty reports were staggering. Three million lost the first day. Five million the second. They'd been able to evade the Reaper troop patrols for the most part, thus far. The only one that had caught them had been dealt with, quite easily. Reaper troops resembling turians, humans and batarians (those were actually quite unrecognizable, she guessed they were batarian because they had four eyes) had made an appearance. They certainly looked bloody ugly, but still seemed to die if you stabbed them in the heart or sliced off their head, or put enough bullets into them. They didn't worry her over-much. The three had made their way to a safe-house. Basically, it was the cellar of their close family friend, Vernon Perillon. He was a General in the meritocracy, and was naturally away on duty. Her injury had been an unfortunate accident. Solana preferred not to think of it.
She'd been in intermittent contact with her brother. The last time they spoke had been about eight hours ago. He'd been inordinately excited.
He'd told her, "Shepard's here, Sol", like it was the official signal to start dancing and rejoicing.
The way Garrus spoke about the human, you'd think she was some sort of goddess. She'd soon see her in action, she supposed.
Garrus had gone on to say that she'd insisted on coming to Palaven to extract their family. Castis, their father, had protested, saying they were no more important than the others who were struggling to survive on Palaven. Garrus told him they were actually coming for Sol, since Shepard felt they could use her. They planned to drop Castis and his wife, Trianna, at the Citadel so they could him organize the turians in the refugee camps there. It irked Solana that she had possibly been used as a bargaining chip to secure the safety of her family. But at the end, all was fair in war times.
She heard a sudden noise above. Something large. Metallic feet possibly. Suddenly, the ceiling in the room adjacent to them caved in. Castis came over to help Solana into the large closet. Trianna sat beside her and Castis took his place at the other side. He closed the door. They remained as quiet as they could.
Another huge crash sounded. A loud thud in the adjacent room. Whatever had landed there, had been strong enough to break through the fucking ground. Shit! They were in trouble.
Solana and her parents dared not move. Suddenly, another crash sounded, and the wall at the far end of the room they were in, gave way. The dim light lit up a hulking monstrosity. It had a huge metal claw it used as a bludgeon. It broke more of the wall to give itself room to move in. It looked around menacingly. Its face looked a lot like the faces the turian Reaper troops had. It was attached by a length of thick metallic material to the rest of its body. More metallic plates covered large areas of its flesh.
Solana and her parents readied the weapons they had. Solana, a Carnifex hand cannon. Castis, an Avenger rifle. And Trianna, a Predator pistol. They would go down shooting at the very least. The brute paced menacingly toward the closet.
Suddenly, there was a blinding flash, and a mischievous laugh. Then, a figure came out of nowhere, and rammed into the monster. Solana could make out a biotic barrier protecting the newcomer. Then, as the figure fell downwards, the newcomer swivelled and used its hand to smash the ground with an incredible amount of biotic power. The monster, already off balance as a result of the ram, fell on its side.
Solana had gathered enough about the newcomer by then to recognize her as a human woman. An insane, rash, and biotically powerful human woman. She quickly got to her feet after her previous attack, and rushed toward the toppled enemy. As she made a running leap, Solana could make out blue biotic energy in the palm of her right hand. She crashed her right hand on what Solana supposed could be called the monster's neck, and snapped it. The head rolled away, and the monster stopped struggling. The woman then stood still, like she was listening for something.
"I can hear you in the closet. Open the door, and come out, slowly. I'm here to help."
Her voice had a ring of authority. She wasn't to be trifled with. Solana noticed that she wore something that looked like night-vision goggles.
Castis cautiously opened the closet door and clambered out. He still held the rifle.
"Ah, hello. Er, mind putting the rifle away, sir, at least for a bit? I don't want to start a shoot-out", the woman said.
She took off her head-piece and shook her head. Droplets of sweat flew around. Her scars seemed to glow an angry red in the dark. Obviously, she had had extensive cybernetic augmentation.
"Of course", said Castis. "I'll just help my wife and daughter out. My daughter will need treatment."
Another figure suddenly appeared at the woman's side. It was another human. She wore a hood over her head, and was dressed mostly in black. She had presumably been using an optical cloak previously. She had probably been the one who'd used the initial flash-bang to disorient the beast.
She kissed the first woman full on her lips, and said, "Nice job taking out that thing", admiringly.
The other female scratched her head and said, "Oh, it was nothing."
Presently, the first female addressed Bastian with a question, "Can they both walk?"
"My wife can. My daughter broke her leg."
"That sounds like them, Shep", said the second woman.
"It does, doesn't it", the woman called 'Shep' agreed. She fished a pack of cigarettes from somewhere. She offered one to the other human, who accepted. She lit both and took a long drag from hers as she waited for the Vakarians to gather.
Trianna had come out of the closet, and mother and father were attempting to get Sol to her feet. Her left leg was broken after all. It was proving more than a little difficult. Her father provided her support on the weak side.
"Er, are you the Vakarians? Solana, Trianna and Castis? Garrus' family?", asked the first woman.
"Yes, we are. I am Castis Bastian Vakarian", answered Castis. "You know our son?"
"Yes, as a matter of fact. I'm Elia Albarn Shepard of the SSV Normandy. Garrus is a long-time crewmate and, he is like a brother to me. My family. We've been through a lot. I've come here to extract all of you. I'll just inform the others that I've been able to locate you."
She spoke into her communicator, and said, "They're here. Javik, Garrus, EDI - converge on the landing zone. Kasumi, join Eli outside and keep an eye out. I'll see you in a bit."
The other woman, presumably called 'Kasumi' nodded and walked outside, still taking occasional drags from her dwindling cigarette.
"Thank you for coming", said Trianna.
Her voice was higher pitched than Garrus and Victus, but had the same flanging effect. She sounded tired, though.
"Least I could do for Garrus. I've dragged him into hell more times than I can care to count. And, he's decided to stay with me on the Normandy for this fight too." Shepard sighed happily and smiled at the three of them. "Always has my back."
"I suspect that it is where he belongs. Garrus never stayed in one place too long before he joined you. He fell apart when you disappeared. I happened to be talking to him when you reappeared too, you know. Sounded utterly downcast, ready to even die before that, and then magically revived a few moments later, and promised to make it to Palaven. He kept his promise too. I believe I have you to thank for that as well", said Castis.
"He always liked fighting. From what I understand, you get yourself into the biggest ones", commented Solana.
Shepard took another drag on her cigarette and exhaled.
"Not my intention. It's funny- a merc on Omega put it best. Things tend to explode around me. When I chased Saren, I never dreamed I'd find evidence of the Reapers. Three months after that, I almost died. Then, I wake up two years later, and everything had changed. After I woke up, Cerberus was the only party who believed me and was willing to do something about it. So I worked with them, and when I stormed the Collectors home world, I saw a Human Reaper embryo. I destroyed it and the Collectors. Then, I had to sacrifice all those people on Aratoht to stop the Reaper's arrival."
Shepard sighed loudly.
"None of this was just me, either. I had my squad backing me up at all times. The Normandy crew carries so many scars because of this damned war, and Javik even fought in the previous cycle! Sometimes, I wonder how we're able to keep going at it. All the bloodshed we've endured, and all the sacrifices we've made. It's such a fucked up mess, and all we can do is hope that it was worth it." Elia shook her head sadly.
"The measure of an individual is difficult to discern from their actions alone, Commander. It's a famous drell philosophy...And from what I've gathered about you, you take what you believe is the best course. You don't give a flying fuck if people don't agree with it. You take on odds no one else would ever dream of considering, and your squads back you every step of the way. To top it all off, the galaxy is relying on you and your friends, including our son, to lead us out of this nightmare, and to be the heroes it so desperately needs once more", said Trianna.
Shepard looked at Trianna, stunned.
"The decisions you make...I cannot even begin to image the weight they will carry. They will haunt you, forever. It is a burden that you and your squad have been forced to bear. It is probable that you are the only ones who can. Unfortunately or fortunately, it is the way of the world."
"Why so stunned, Commander?", remarked Castis.
"I fear everyone expects too much of me", said Shepard, haltingly.
"That's your fault completely. Garrus talked of how he'd never seen anyone fight like you. Made you out to be some kind of goddess. He once tried to describe one of your fights. What I got was that you charged a Geth Colossus and broke its neck off? I laughed so hard that he couldn't finish the story. It was just so incredible. Now, I'll need to admit that big brother was probably telling the truth."
"Well, it did happen, if my word means anything. But, what changed your mind?", asked Shepard.
"You come in here, charge a monster twice the size of a yahg, covered in metal plates, and literally beat it to death with your bare hands. I'd say if you're insane enough to try something like that, and powerful enough to actually pull it off, then it's quite possible a Colossus could have also faced the same fate at your hands."
"Oh, that thing? I took out three or four of its friends at Menae. Garrus and Vega got them a few times, but Eli and I had to do most of the heavy lifting." Shepard put her ear to the communicator.
After a few moments, she said, "We need to move out. There are some hostiles nearby, so we will need to keep an eye out. Possibly a big Reaper unit approaching."
Suddenly, something seemed to occur to her.
"Er, you had a broken leg, right. You need me to be carry you?"
Solana stared at her in disbelief.
"Umm, turians are rather heavy, Commander", said Castis, carefully.
Shepard waved his doubt away.
"Oh no need to worry about that. I've carried turians, krogan, asari, even a varren. What I mean to say is, I'm pretty damn strong."
"Er, okay. In that, case it'll definitely be faster than supporting her along."
"Okay. How are you for thermal clips, sir?"
"Please. Call me Castis. It's hardly becoming for me to be called 'sir' by you, of all people. I'm fine for now, though. Should have enough to provide covering fire for a while."
"Good. Mrs. Vakarian, can you handle an N7 Valkyrie? It's much easier to provide covering fire with an assault rifle rather than a pistol."
"Trianna, please. I've never heard of the gun you mentioned."
"Oh, damn it. Course you haven't. It's a prototype. Er, its heavier than an Avenger, so if you two could switch…"
"I was one of the founding members of the Blackwatch, Commander. I believe I can handle the weight", said Trianna, a trifle haughtily.
"Oh, all right. No offence intended" Shepard held up her arms peaceably.
She took the assault rifle off her back and handed it to Trianna carefully.
"Here you are. I suggest practising on the wall or something. Get your bearings. Here are some thermal clips. And I heard you were sick. So, please don't over-strain yourself. Garrus would kill me otherwise."
"Understood, ma'am. I will be in the next room, awaiting your command."
Shepard nodded, then turned her attention to Solana. "You can rest for a while. I'll need to finish this", she said, indicating her half-smoked cigarette. She leaned with her back to the wall and took a long drag from it, flicking the ashes that had collected at its end.
Solana commented, "We can't smoke, you know. I've heard though, that it's supposed to be bad for you?"
Shepard nodded. "Yeah, it isn't good for your health. But, if I actually did care about my health, I wouldn't be doing this, would I? Plus, it's a neuro-stimulant, increases your alertness, and well, it's rather addictive."
"Fair point."
"So, that other woman, was she..."
"My lover, girlfriend, significant other, whatever you want to call it...her name's Kasumi, and she's my most important person."
"Ahh, I see." Something seemed to occur to Solana.
"Er, I should apologize, actually. I didn't mean to pry..."
Elia laughed. "Please, it's quite all right. I mean, she did come and kiss me full on the lips in front of you all. Some people back on Earth actually criticize the fact that I'm queer. Being with other women...No chance to reproduce naturally, you know."
Solana seemed surprised. "It doesn't really signify in the case of us turians. Why? Is this a problem in human culture?"
"Nah, its just that I happen to be me, you know, one of the greatest humans to have ever lived and all that jazz...the fact that my genes won't live on in an annoying little brat causes grief for some more religious factions. Idiots, if you ask me...like I have a reason to care what they or anyone else think. The only people who matter to me are my crew and my pets."
Elia laughed merrily.
"I see...also, I heard you refer to an 'Eli' and 'Edi'. Are they different people?"
"Ah yes, they are. Eli is my little sister. Short for Elisira. EDI is a sentient AI. She's part of my squad and also helps us control the ship."
Solana's eyes grew wide with astonishment.
"You have a little sister called Elisira? Funny...I knew a human girl called Eli once. Looked a lot like you, come to think of it. And you mentioned an AI? Is it unshackled?"
Elia nodded. "Yes, I do have a little sister. And damn, I knew I was on to something. No time to explain right now. Anyway, she's three years my junior and I've loved her to bits ever since the day I met her about fifteen years ago. I will protect her until the end of my days and destroy anyone who'd dare hurt her. And to the second part of your question - yes, EDI is an unshackled AI. She is her own person, and a very close friend of mine."
She finished her cigarette and stubbed it out. She then produced a can of beer from somewhere about her person, opened it and chugged it in one gulp. Solana watched on with interest.
"That felt good."
"You normally try to get stoned before fighting."
"Before, during and after, dear girl", said Shepard, smirking. "It's the only way to be."
She seemed to consider something, then shrugged and produced another can of beer. She opened that one and chugged it down as well.
Solana could not keep the surprise from her eyes.
Shepard said, somewhat defensively, "What? There's booze back on the shuttle, and I figured I might as well drink all the stuff I have on me right now. Probably no more stops on the way."
So saying, she crushed both the empty cans and tossed them away.
She tried to reassure Solana. "Okay, I'm ready. And don't worry about the drinking and smoking thing. I'm barely buzzed, you can ask Garrus about my exploits at Omega's bar if you want."
Solana nodded.
"Cool! Let's get prepared. You good with an SMG? Using an slow-firing pistol like the Carnifex when you'll be jolted around isn't the best idea."
"Okay, what do you have in mind."
"This", said Elia, showing her a… Spirits, that was a Kassa Locust!
"That's a Locust, isn't it", said Solana, excitedly.
Shepard smiled proudly, and said, "The one and only original. Got it on a heist. Kasumi played me for it, and lost. I got to keep it for myself. Made several copies for the rest of the squad, though."
She handed it to Solana. "Still, this IS the original. And, it's mine. Don't go getting ideas that I might give it to you. I've been through too much with that gun."
"I understand perfectly, Commander."
"Shepard carefully picked her up on her left side. She got up and balanced the weight the best she could, keeping her left arm tightly around Solana's middle. She armed her Paladin in her right hand, and then created a biotic barrier to protect Solana.
"You okay."
"A little uncomfortable, but nothing I can't manage."
"Good. This is only for a little while."
She walked into the next room, where Trianna was coming to terms with the Valkyrie. Castis looked on quietly.
"Okay, do you feel comfortable using that rifle?"
"Comfortable enough. Are we leaving?"
"Yes. Okay, here's how we go. The shuttle's about a mile away. Kasumi and Eli are currently right outside. Sol and I will be the weakest link, so we'll push ahead with two people covering ahead of us. The other two will follow behind. Javik, EDI and Garrus should be waiting further up. Got it?"
Bastian and Trianna nodded. "Okay, let's go."
They made their way up the stairs, to the front of the General's house. Kasumi and Elisira were waiting on the street. Kasumi looked up as they approached, smirking mischievously when she saw Shepard carrying Solana.
She walked over, kissed her girlfriend again, and said, "Like I said, El. Reaper unit down the road. They're searching houses. That big brute must have been a straggler. We spotted a lot of the turian and batarian things."
"Okay, looks like we need to make a dash for it. Palaven's streets ain't safe. Before that, I'd like to introduce Solana and Elisira."
"Oh. Alright, just a moment", asked Elisira, putting the safety on her weapon and coming over to take a closer look at the turian girl her older sister was carrying.
"Wait...It's you!", exclaimed both of them at the same time.
Then, looking at Elia, Elisira said, "But how...Did you know it was the same person?"
Elia shook her head. "No, I didn't. But I did guess. Truth be told, I was surprised that you didn't think the same thing. Turian Blackwatch Delta Squad Two? Sol may have been short for Solana. Didn't it even cross your mind?"
Elisira shook her head. "No...it never struck me."
Turning back to Solana, she smiled and said. "Well, Sol. Nice to meet you after all this time."
"Likewise, Eli. I don't know what to think, to be honest. But, I hope we can catch up later."
Elisira nodded. "Count on it. My big sister never fails, ever."
Elia smiled and said, "Alright, guys. Reunions complete, here is the plan. Sumi dear, you're on my four thirty. Trianna, on my eight. Castis and Eli, you guys can bring up the rear. Keep an eye out for any movement at all times."
"Understood", everyone chorused.
Shepard nodded. "Let's go."
Solana was surprised at Shepard's speed despite carrying her. More surprised at how she wasn't being jolted all that much. Something to do with the protective barrier she was maintaining?
They encountered no real resistance for a while - just a few small patrols here and there. Small enough that they quickly and quietly dealt with them. Soon, they came to a field. There was a noise in the bushes nearby. A figure emerged.
"Shepard, is that you?", a familiar voice said.
"Javik, yes. You can relax. We got them out safely."
"Good. I would suggest guiding them to the shuttle. We must hold off the harvester."
Shepard looked at him, brow furrowed. A noise sounded behind them. It was Garrus. He ran over to them.
"Ah, thanks for keeping them safe, guys."
He greeted his father and mother and hugged them joyfully.
He looked around, spied Solana on Shepard's shoulder, and went over to flick her nose playfully. Solana reacted angrily, but Garrus jumped out of reach. Solana snarled.
"Er, Sol. You mind not squirming too much." Shepard sounded amused.
Solana subsided, grumbling, and satisfied herself with a murderous glare at Garrus.
His fun over, Garrus told the rest, "Shepard, Cortez spotted a harvester on long range scanner. He said it was headed to this position. It'll be here soon."
There was another noise to their left, as EDI's humanoid platform joined them. "Hello El. There was a Reaper unit patrolling this area. I suggest we make haste."
Shepard took in all this information and thought for a while.
"Hmm. Look, Cortez has the turrets on-board the shuttle. A few rocket launchers and other heavy weapons. Instead of dragging ourselves into a ground battle we'll probably have to bug out from anyway, you think we can make a break for it now? We'll launch a few rockets, throw the unit off track. Keep the harvester off with the turret."
Everyone considered this in silence.
"Big sis is right", said Elisira, eventually.
"It does seem like a sound plan", agreed Kasumi.
"I would tend to agree", added Javik.
"I believe that the course suggested by Shepard has a higher probability of success with a much lower usage of our resources. In addition, Shepard is hardly ever wrong."
"I suppose that's our best shot at this", said Garrus.
"Okay, it's decided then. Let's move to the shuttle", said Shepard.
They made their way to the top of the hill, and behind the rocks where Cortez had parked the shuttle. He hadn't moved, so they quickly made their way inside.
Shepard carefully placed Solana beside Cortez in the front seat. "Steve, make sure she's okay. I'm counting on you."
Cortez nodded and said, "Understood, ma'am."
Shepard went back out and told Trianna to make sure Solana didn't aggravate her injury. Trianna acquiesced and made her way to the front as well. Shepard pushed the turret out and sat at the controls.
"The rest of you, grab your weapon of choice. EDI, Cortez, keep an eye on that harvester. We need to make sure we aren't shot down! Also, hang on to something, everyone. It's probably going to be a real bumpy ride!"
Elisira called out, "Cortez, we're ready to go."
"Understood." The shuttle took off.
"Fire at will. Reaper unit approaching."
Shepard started firing off her turret. Garrus fired off two rockets from the launcher he'd appropriated, and Kasumi a series of grenades from her weapon. Cortez put distance in between them and the ground.
They took a breather. "Where's the harvester?"
EDI replied. "It is approaching on our eight."
Shepard looked around, trying to spot it. Suddenly, it appeared into view with a dreadful, piercing shriek.
"Let's go. Concentrate fire."
Shepard turned her turret around and started firing. Garrus and Kasumi followed suit with their respective launcher weapons. Javik seemed to have found himself a rocket launcher as well, and he joined the fray. Elisira sat herself at the other turret and fired as well. Moments later they heard the harvester make its final cry, and disintegrate with a huge blast of red energy. Shepard turned. "EDI, any other hostiles?"
"None in the immediate area."
"Okay, Cortez. Get us to the Normandy ASAP. Don't want another bird to get a sniff."
"Aye, aye."
Shepard withdrew the turret and closed the shuttle door. She went over to a cooler in the shuttle and retrieved a large bottle of sake. She'd developed a taste for it, especially since she'd gotten together with Kasumi. It was her favoured poison, being of Japanese origin.
"Help yourselves", she announced, before taking her place on one of the shuttle benches.
Garrus and Javik got up to retrieve some alcohol for themselves. Garrus got himself some dextro-ale, and Javik got himself a bottle of wine (Since his empire was destroyed, he could not be punished with death for his actions any more). Kasumi helped herself to another of the sake bottles, while Elisira got herself a bottle of akantha. Castis sat tight, slightly surprised at the scene around him. Getting drunk while on a shuttle back to the ship wasn't something the military used to do in his time. Either the times had changed drastically, or Shepard didn't really run her vessel military style. He suspected it was the latter.
Shepard sat between Elisira and Kasumi. On the opposite side sat Castis, Garrus, EDI and Javik. Shepard raised her bottle, said, "Cheers to a mission well done, and to many more like it" and opened it.
Everyone else raised their bottles, chorusing, "Cheers!", before opening them.
Elia gulped down about a quarter of her sake before stopping to take a breath. The rest (save EDI and Castis) followed.
Javik suddenly spoke up. "Elder Shepard, is it true that you keep pets in your cabin?"
He'd taken to calling Elia 'Elder Shepard' as he was still uncomfortable calling her by her given name. Elisira was 'Younger Shepard', naturally.
Elia was surprised at the question. "Yes, Javik. I Have currently got a space hamster and a load of different fishes, complete with a VI to manage them."
Kasumi and Garrus snorted. Shepard looked at each in turn, questioningly.
Garrus stated, "Yeah. I was with you at the time. You bought a VI to take care of your fish, instead of a top of the line prototype shotgun."
"Well, I don't really use shotguns much, and Tali hasn't joined up with us yet. Besides, I've had way too many fish die on me because I didn't have the time to look after them. They need so much maintenance, it isn't even funny! That VI was a damned good purchase. It looks after them well and ensures no more of them die due to my negligence."
"El obsesses about her fish almost as much as her model collection. I should know", said Kasumi, smiling mischievously, unconsciously taking Elia's free hand.
"What? We all need hobbies, right?", said Elia, rather defensively.
"Yeah, and you seem to have a lot of them, big sis. Let's see - video games, old fantasy books, pets, models, saving the galaxy…", commented Elisira.
"Which reminds me. Where the hell is that copy of 'Dragon Age: The Inquisition' that you promised Eli and me, Vakarian? I'd call this mission an unqualified success", asked Elia.
"Oh, I left it in your room. Have fun!", said Garrus.
"Hey, I got that, Vakarian! Don't take the credit for getting something you're just giving over to my own girls", said Kasumi, rather indignantly.
"Well, I did trade you a copy of that romance novel for it", shot back Garrus.
"The Lord of the Rings is not a romance novel, dude. At the very least, know something about what you traded", said Kasumi, exasperatedly.
"Well, yeah, I don't read books like that. And the sisters have been searching for a copy of that game for a good while."
"I didn't know. I just filched it off that video game store in the Citadel once. Come to think of it, this particular one was surprisingly well hidden."
"Sumi dear, I'd be careful who you say that around. Garrus' dad was formerly a C-Sec officer. A rather famous detective at that", put in Elia, smirking at her mischievously.
Kasumi went red and said, "Oh...err, okay. Can we all forget what I just said."
Castis laughed. "Oh, I'm not with them any more, so you need not worry yourself on that count. And even if I'd wanted to run you in for some reason, I doubt even the entire C-SEC force would have wanted to go up against you and the Normandy squad. It wouldn't be a fair fight for us."
Garrus put in, "For what it's worth, Dad, I'd only use concussive rounds."
"I'm sure C-Sec would have thanked you for your sentimentality, son. Though I really think they'd have preferred it if you'd offered to sit the fight out instead."
"That'd never happen. If someone goes after anyone on this squad, they're wrong. No process needed to determine that", said Garrus.
Castis laughed. "For once, I might have to agree, son." He turned to Elia. "This does not mean that I approve of Spectres, of course. Look at Saren. You guys are too powerful as these stateless entities beholden to almost no one."
Shepard nodded. "It is a very fair point. As far as Saren is concerned, I pity him more than I hate him or anything. I do loathe him somewhat because he was weak, and gave in to the Reapers. Then again, indoctrination is something that is difficult to grasp. He probably thought he couldn't be controlled because he believed he was strong, and that he was the one making the choices. That was his downfall. Though the reports I've read of him suggested that his actions were questionable even before that. Once upon a time, I might have called him a monster. But now, I really don't know. He honestly seemed to believe what he did was for the greater good. Looking at what I've done, I realize that I've also made a lot of similar choices. Maybe we aren't that different after all?"
Castis fancied that he saw a flicker of uncertainty in Elia.
Garrus cleared his throat, and said, "That's bullshit and you know it. Saren made those choices when he had better ones open to him. You made those choices because there was no other option. There's a world of difference in that. He decided that submitting to the Reapers was the only way to survive, the only way we could live. You decided exactly the opposite of that - you wouldn't give in, and you fought it with every fiber of your being. Saren was weak. You are not. If someone was to take an impartial look at your histories, they'd realize that there was a huge difference between the two of you. He lacked the greatness, the determination, and the grit that sets you apart from everyone else. Most of all, he lacked your leadership skills. He lacked the spark that you had...the ability to assemble what could best be described as a ragtag crew of misfits, and mould them into a combat squad, each one of whom are now considered legends in every part of the known galaxy."
During the course of this, Kasumi had put her hand around Elia and begun to rock her comfortingly. Elisira had also entwined her hand with her sister's, to signify that she was available as well, should support be required. Both shot grateful looks at Garrus.
Castis added, "I rarely ever agree with my son. However, in this case, I believe that he has, what do you humans say… hit the hammer on the nail?"
"Nail on the head, not hammer on the nail, sir", said Elisira, laughing.
Castis nodded and amended, "My apologies. He has hit the nail on the head."
"I appreciate the vote of confidence. Let's hope it isn't unfounded", said Elia, unconsciously burrowing closer into Kasumi's comforting embrace, and squeezing her little sister's hand.
Kasumi supported her happily, hugging Elia tighter with her left arm, and leaning her head against Elia's, with Elisira leaning against the other side.
Elia tended to do this a lot - Kasumi and Elisira represented safety, warmth and security to her. Whenever things got too heavy, they'd just cuddle up and ride it out, together. Each offered the other a reason to live, and in a galaxy that seemed to keep getting darker, those lifelines could just not be ignored.
"You know; if this goes south, we could freeze you like they froze Javik, and let the next cycle find you. Then you'd go from being merely legendary to mythical", commented Garrus.
"They'd have to freeze you all too. Need my squad backing me up. Javik can give us tips to pass the time", said Elia.
"Actually, to me, it didn't feel like anything more than a short nap. I was speaking to Victory and fell asleep. Suddenly, I saw you and your sister staring down at me, and I realized how much time had passed", put in Javik.
"I wouldn't need freezing. I could perform the role Victory performed. Watch over you and make sure all of you were safe. And collect data that could be useful to our future success", commented EDI.
They continued drinking, and discussing the finer points of their plan to put themselves into cryogenic stasis and wake up the next time the Reapers came, until the shuttle reached the Normandy.
Castis wondered if he had somehow entered a mad-house.
As they were disembarking, he took his son aside, and asked him, "Er, Garrus, is it always like this on the ship?"
Garrus laughed heartily at his father's discomfort. "Feels unreal, doesn't it? Need some way to relieve all the stress, Dad. Talking about nothing in particular is rather effective. Takes your mind off things. You should listen in on our comm channel during missions. It will certainly give you a few laughs, at the very least."
Castis nodded, unsure.
Elia was at the elevator. She called out, "Garrus, ask James for help with getting your sis to Dr. Chakwas. Javik, EDI, you're both dismissed. Sumi, please provide Liara with the intel we got on Palaven during the mission. And Eli, could you see to it that Miranda gets all the new information we collected on the Reaper troops? After that, you might want to come down to the med bay to check on Sol."
After sending all the squad on their way, she finally turned to Garrus' parents. "Mr and Mrs. Vakarian, welcome to the Normandy. To give you a short introduction, I'm Elia Albarn Shepard, the commanding officer of the ship, Garrus is my XO. Dr. Liara T'Soni is the intelligence specialist, Kasumi Goto, whom you've met, is our electronics expert, and Miranda Lawson handles our mobile research office, along with my little sister Elisira Noel. Please follow Garrus to the med-bay for the time-being. I'll need to give your Primarch, Adrien Victus, the tour too, so I'll be along later, and we can go together. If you need anything, please let Garrus or Dr. Chakwas at the med-bay know. Sorry if I'm being rude, but I'll need to cut this short. I have to put a call through to Urdnot Wrex, and invite him to speak as the krogan representative to the summit."
"Apologies are unnecessary, Commander. You saved our lives. We will be with our daughter", said Bastian.
Shepard nodded and smiled. "I'll see you later, then."
-0-
"She…." said a blurred image at the other end. There was a lot of static.
"EDI, can you clear this up?", asked Elia.
"I will do my best", replied EDI.
The image cleared up a lot in a few seconds. Shepard could see her old squad mate and long-time friend, Urdnot Wrex, the leader of all the krogan clans, at the other end of the QEC. Officially of Clan Urdnot, he had been busy the past two years or so, uniting all the different krogan clans and factions under one banner, and himself rising to become the de-facto ruler of them.
"Shepard, can you hear me?", he asked.
"Sure can, Wrex. How about you?", replied Elia.
"Clear enough. So, how has the fighting been so far?"
"Pretty intense, Wrex. Seems like everywhere I go, something's out to get me."
"Yeah, I don't doubt it. Some things never really change, eh? And you are the biggest threat they've faced in several million years. Grunt told me some bits of what that Reaper leader did, what was his name…Harbinger? Yeah, he showed us all the vids. Seems like you pissed them off pretty badly!" Wrex laughed loudly.
"You could say that, Wrex", said Elia, giving Wrex her trademark lopsided smirk.
Wrex guffawed again.
"Well, I've been expecting a call for a while, El. Garrus, Liara, Miranda, Kasumi, Grunt - everyone really...we've all being getting more and more antsy waiting for you to turn up. Good thing you did, at long last."
"Yeah, Alliance procedures, Wrex. Couldn't risk an inter-species war before the real one...You know how it is."
"Yeah. All too well."
"That aside, let's get down to business, Wrex. I'd like to introduce the turian Primarch, Adrien Victus."
Victus appeared onscreen next to Elia, said "Good day, Adrien Victus at your service", and saluted.
Wrex saluted back. "And Urdnot Wrex at yours."
"I hope we can help each other, Wrex, though Shepard has already warned me that you will drive a hard bargain."
"I have heard of you, Primarch, and I admire your record. I would like to say at the outset that, even though we face a threat that has destroyed a countless civilizations before us, ours is going to survive. Our civilization will endure. The previous cycles did not have the woman standing next to you leading them...But, we do. And she will make the difference for us. I have no doubt. I have personally fought alongside her, and in nearly a millenium of living, I have not come across anyone like her. She truly is a goddess of war."
Elia reddened slightly at the praise. "I do hope your faith is not unfounded, Wrex. We're having a summit, to build alliances for the war against the Reapers. It will be attended by Dalatrass Linron of the Salarian Union, and Primarch Victus, who'll be speaking for the Turian Hierarchy. I'll be representing the Human Alliance, though I'm technically just consulting. The Primarch and I also speak for the Vol Protectorate, and the Elcor Military. In addition, I've also been given leave to speak for the Hanar Illuminacy, and many other groups who have allied with our cause. We'd like to extend you an invitation and be part of this summit."
"I'd be happy to attend as the representative of the krogan peoples. However, may I note that the asari, and the quarians and geth seem to be curiously absent."
"Yes, it is a delicate situation, Wrex. For the moment, the asari are remaining on the sidelines. We don't have intel to comment on the quarian-geth situation yet."
"I see."
Elia shook her head. "It's a definite problem, but they can't remain non-committal forever. Soon enough, they will help us. In any case, we'll come in to pick you up on Tuchanka in the Normandy. Will that be satisfactory?"
"Sure. What's your ETA?"
"Within 2 solar days."
"I look forward to it. Goodbye, Elia, Primarch. I certainly hope we can help each other and get through this."
"Thanks. And goodbye, Wrex", said Victus and Shepard, together.
After the line had been cut, the Primarch and Shepard walked to the war room together.
"Something puzzles me, Commander. It seemed like Wrex was expecting the call", said the Primarch, as they were walking out.
Shepard turned and smiled at the Primarch. "Well, I've known this war was coming for a long time, Primarch. And as you may know, Wrex was with me when I took out Saren and met Nazara. He is an old and treasured friend, and you might have guessed as much when he addressed me by my first name. It was never going to be easy getting everyone on board, working together. So, I laid the groundwork in advance, wherever I could. For you two, the issue will be to get past old grudges and past animosities…."
Shepard ruffled her hair.
Victus said, "Well, he agreed to the summit. That's a positive step."
"I'll get everyone working together whether they like it or not. I have to", said Shepard, her voice hardening somewhat.
"I don't doubt it. I do hope I don't have any major disagreements with you. Mostly for the sake of my health."
Shepard grinned at the Primarch. "So, Primarch. Ready for the grand tour of the Normandy?"
"That sounds nice, Commander."
"We'll just get Garrus' parents from the med-bay first. I promised them a tour as well."
"Most certainly. Castis and Trianna are both close personal friends of mine. I'm happy that they are well."
Shepard and Victus made their way down to the med-bay. Garrus, his parents and Solana were all there. Solana was on the operating table, being tended to by Dr. Chakwas. It seemed like the doctor was finished.
"How does it look, doc?"
"Nothing a bone weave isn't capable of fixing. I'd recommend that she rest for three days, while it heals. You can talk to her now- I only needed to use a local anaesthetic. She'll need pain medication in an hour or so."
"Thank you so much, doctor. We are in your debt", said Trianna.
"Just doing my job here. Oh, and before I forget...you'll be here for a while, Mrs. Vakarian. Better get used to the med-bay."
"Errr...why exactly?"
"Professor Mordin Solus passed me your medical files. And a shipment of your medication was already delivered to my med-bay. We will continue your treatment until such time you are on this ship. After that, I will personally ensure that you are placed in the care of one Dr. Fraelik, currently of the Huerta Memorial Hospital. Mordin tells me he was one of the best at Helos before they evacuated the medical specialists there, to help the war effort. Praise from Dr. Solus is very rare, let me tell you!"
Trianna's face fell, almost comically.
"Aww, don't be like that, Mum. You get to keep me company", said Solana.
"Thank you, doctor. Forgive my wife's rudeness; it's just that she doesn't like doctors very much, having spent much of the last 3 years in a hospital", said Castis.
"I can imagine. We do tend to be all dreary and dull", said Dr. Chakwas, laughing. "I'll be in the mess hall if anything comes up."
As the doctor was going out, Elisira came in.
"Hi, everyone", she said, looking around.
"Ah, Eli. Glad to see you here. Grab any seat that's free."
Elia glanced over at Solana. "Well, Sol, you okay?", she asked.
"Yeah. I closed my eyes through most of it. Hate needles, scalpels, any sort of medical instrument." Solana shuddered.
"Join the club", said Elia, laughing.
Something seemed to occur to Primarch Victus. "Ah yes, Commander. Would you like me to transfer Lieutenant Vakarian to your command?"
"Like I said when I made the request, it depends completely on LC Vakarian, Primarch. She certainly would be a valuable addition, but let's face it, being around me is tempting fate. Every mission brief that gets sent to me, comes to me only because no one else can or will take it on. I don't make a habit of asking people to be a part of my squad. I can't force them to take that risk."
"And once they join, you can't get them to leave", added Garrus, chuckling.
Everyone laughed at that.
Elia turned to address Solana directly. "Sol, if you want to be a part of the Normandy, there's a place for you here. However, it's entirely your decision, and there will be no hard feelings if you don't want to join up with our ragtag crew of bloodthirsty warmongers."
All eyes in the room were on Solana.
She considered for a time, before she finally said, "It's an honor that I'd be considered good enough to be a part of this crew. A part of what is easily the most accomplished squad in the galaxy, under the woman whom everyone rightly believes, is probably the only hope we have of surviving this war. The legends that served here are well known in every nook and cranny of our galaxy...and some of the known operations you guys have carried out are present in the training manuals of every special advanced military program worth mentioning...And somehow, you seem to make incredible things happen out of thin air. I've been able to see Elisira again, and I'd given up hope of ever meeting her in my lifetime."
She fell silent, and then went on after a while. "However, I'd like to know what you and my brother and the rest were up to in the past three years or so. I want details. About you, the one who's leading this war effort. About G, the brother I can hardly recognize now. Even my parents deserve to know. So, if I'm going to join your squad, I'll need to know all of it."
There was silence in the room. Elia then sighed, and said, "A valid request."
She fished out a cigarette and lit it before placing it down on the table. Elisira helped herself to one as well.
Elia took a drag on hers, exhaled, and began. "About what I did before I met Garrus, before I became a Spectre...I'll have Liara give you access to old mission reports, debriefs, whatever you need. I'll also answer any questions that you might have. I know that I've made several interesting choices, but I will field any query you have honestly, and provide full details as to what the situation was, and why I acted in a specific way. As to what happened after Garrus came along - I believe that's what you're most interested in...and it's a really long story. We'll have to be here a while if I need to tell it."
"Actually, Commander. I'd like to hear it too", said Victus. "If you have some free time, then I'd be honoured to listen to how this all came about."
"As will we. We have heard only bits of it from Garrus", said Castis, indicating himself and his mate, Trianna.
Shepard considered for a moment, then sighed. "All right. Might as well make ourselves comfortable. Garrus, Eli, you'll need to fill in any bits I miss out."
"Of course, El", said Garrus and Eli together, taking their places next to her.
So, for the next hour or three, Shepard talked about how she took down Saren - the events on Therum, Noveria, Feros, Virmire, meeting Sovereign, the death of Ashley Williams, the journey through the mu-relay to Ilos, about Vigil, the Conduit prototype relay, the events on the Citadel, and finally, the destruction of the first Reaper, the supposed vanguard of their destruction, Nazara or Sovereign, caused by the downfall of Saren's monstrous form. Elisira then went on to relate how her sister had almost died over Alchera when the old Normandy was attacked and destroyed by the Collectors, and how she had been incapacitated for two long years as Project Lazarus, headed by Miranda and funded by Cerberus, rebuilt her, and how they'd commenced their mission to investigate the activities of the Collectors, specifically their abduction of humans in colonies on the fringes of Citadel space. Garrus then explained his sojourn on Omega, his alter ego, Archangel, his activities and victories, and his ultimate downfall. He talked about how he was close to death, but was saved miraculously by Elia and her squad. Elia then went on with the story, telling them how she gathered a team of talented specialists to stop the Collecters, with several snippets of the adventures they had. She talked of Horizon, the Collector Ship, the derelict Reaper, Legion, his revelations about Geth and how he'd become a valued member of their squad, the Collector ship attack, the crew's abduction, and their subsequent journey that many considered a suicide mission through the Omega-4 Relay, and the Normandy crew's successful rescue with no one left behind. Shepard talked about Harbinger, the human Reaper embryo, the destruction of the Collector home world, and the Normandy's dissociation from Cerberus. She then went on to detail her actions in regard to the Alpha Relay incident, the destruction of Aratoht, her subsequent orders to each of her former crew, and her so-called arrest at the hands of the Alliance, where she'd never stood trial, and spent most of her time providing information on the oncoming invasion, gathering allies, and suggesting ways to prepare for it. Then, the more recent stories, the recovery of the Prothean device blueprints on Mars, Cerberus' offensive against them, the meeting with the unhelpful-as-always Council and their retrieval of Victus, the new Primarch, on Menae. She took particular pleasure in shredding the good Councilor Sparatus' image at every available opportunity. Garrus smirked to himself each time she tore into him. He hated the the man as much as she did.
Elia stopped, and indicated that the story was done. Solana came out of her trance. She'd been so engrossed in the story that she'd not felt the stabbing pains up her left leg.
"Ah, damn it. This is painful", she cried.
Elisira looked at the time. "It's been three hours. Wonder why the doctor didn't come in. I'll get her to give you your pain meds."
The younger Shepard sister found Dr. Chakwas easily enough and came back to the med-bay with her.
"I was surprised you didn't realize earlier. The Shepards and Garrus here must be really good at telling stories", she commented, smiling wryly.
She administered the pain medication and Solana found herself feeling much better.
"Thank you", she said.
Dr. Chakwas nodded. "If you need anything else, I'll be in the mess hall."
After she left, everyone looked over at Solana, expectantly. The question Elia had asked her still hung in the air.
Solana solemnly saluted from her bed and said, "Commander Elia Shepard, if you'll have me, I'm staying here. I will fight by your side, protect our friends, and follow you to any hell you deem necessary."
Shepard smiled and walked up to Solana. She held out her hand. "Welcome aboard, LC Solana Vakarian. Good to have you on the team. And please, I have no military rank. Call me Elia or Shepard. Anything but my middle name."
Solana took Shepard's proffered hand and shook it firmly.
Then, Shepard turned to Primarch Victus and Mr. and Mrs. Vakarian. "Well, if you're still up for it, we can have that tour. Garrus and Eli can watch over Sol and make sure she doesn't get up to any mischief."
"Of course, Commander", replied Victus. Garrus' parents nodded as well.
"If you'll follow me." Elia led the three turians out of the med-bay, giving her sister a knowing smile as she left her and Garrus alone with Solana.
Garrus walked over and sat on the chair beside Solana's bed. He considered her for a moment, and started laughing.
"What?", asked Solana, a trifle indignantly.
"You don't know what you've let yourself in for, Sol. I've been with both Shepard sisters a really long time. Each time I think the older one can get no crazier, she proves me wrong. She is hopelessly insane, but she just seems to infect everyone around her with her insanity and that actually makes our missions fun, in a way. You'll see that soon enough, though. Ask Eli if you don't believe me."
"I've seen some evidence of it. She literally brawled with one of those big Reaper monsters."
"A brute? Big, metal plates everywhere, heavy arm it swings around?"
Solana nodded.
"Ha, there were four of them at the camp we got the Primarch out of. Vega and I dealt with one, and El and Eli took the other three out. Victus could barely believe his eyes."
"I got the feeling she was extremely reckless."
"An understandable but misleading impression. I've seen her long enough to know that she is extremely calculated, even if it isn't very obvious. She's deliberate, manipulative, cold, and ruthless. She takes a lot of risks, but they never fail to pan out. Frankly, I've never seen a better tactician or stronger warrior in the galaxy."
Solana considered. "She has some serious ability. I'd say she was pretty powerful even before all the cybernetic augmentation."
"Oh, definitely. Her biotics were always powerful, and she always had a head for combat tech. She can handle any gun as well as a good commando, though she seems to prefer the faster firing ones. After Miranda rebuilt her, well, let's just say that she's practically invincible."
Solana frowned at Garrus. "G, tell me honestly, do you love her? As in, is she the mate you've marked for yourself? It will end in heartbreak, you know. She seems to love the other girl quite a lot."
Turians were a species that could only really fall in love once in their lives. Unfortunately, if that love was not reciprocated, they could never really recover from the almost physical heartbreak.
Garrus fell off his chair. He looked at his sister, astonished. She looked at him impassively, waiting for his answer.
Garrus got up and took his place back on his chair.
"No, Sol. I love Shepard, but not in that way. She's my best friend and my mentor. She's like a big sister who's always going to be there for me, and whom I'll always be there for. Despite how damnably attractive she is, I'd never look at her romantically. Besides, like you said...she has Sumi. And Eli. They're good together, and they are able to do things for her that none of us can! I'll be there for her if she needs me, but we're always going to be platonic."
Solana laughed. "Just pulling your leg, G. Fun to see you all flustered."
She grew thoughtful. "Besides, knowing you, I'd have said that the quarian mechanic… Tali, was it? I'd have guessed you'd hold a torch for her."
She looked at Garrus, expecting a rebuttal. Garrus only shifted uncomfortably in his seat. Solana put a hand to her mouth.
"Damn, you do have a thing for Tali, don't you, G? Spirits, are you two an item?"
"Not yet, at least. But I've seen some sparks there", chimed in Elisira, who'd been silent till then.
Garrus looked as Elisira reproachfully, then turned to Solana. "No, Sol. I am not an 'item' with anyone. Look, why are you so interested in my love-life?"
"Tali sounds nice", Solana mused. "I suppose I'll meet her in due time. Then, I'll tell her stories of Garrus Vakarian when he was younger and actually took his duties as an older brother seriously."
She smirked at Garrus mischievously.
Garrus looked mortified.
Then, Solana said, "Look, G, I'll help you out with her if you want. Eli will too. Just ask us."
Garrus shook his head, then seemed to think of something. "Wait a minute. What's up with you two? I'm getting the feeling that you know each other from before, acting all familiar around each other. What's the story?", he asked curiously.
Elisira blushed, and Solana turned away, mandibles chattering.
"Why did the atmosphere in here suddenly change so much", asked Garrus, looking at each girl in turn.
"G, remember the human girl I told you about. The one from Zorya...", said Solana, eventually.
"Yeah, of course I do. The one you said you'd fallen in love with. The reason you couldn't love anyone else. Her name was..." Garrus trailed off as it suddenly hit him.
"Eli? Wait a darn minute. Is El's little sister, Eli, that same Eli!?", he asked, shocked.
Elisira nodded and swallowed. "The very same, Garrus."
Garrus jumped up and hugged Elisira. "This is great news, then! You've found each other. And it's Elisira. Spirits! This is so exciting!", he said.
Solana laughed at Elisira's mortified expression. "Settle down, big brother. Or she's going to get scared and run away."
Elisira shook her head, and took a deep breath to compose herself. "Hardly. The last time, I let us be victims of our circumstances. This time, I'm not going to let that happen. I've never ever felt the same raw connection with anyone else", she said, looking at Solana intently.
"I'm glad...I didn't want to burden you with the whole one time love thing back then. It didn't feel right...", said Solana, looking down at the ground.
Elisira took Solana's chin between right thumb and forefinger and forced her to look up at her. "You're still so cute, just like back then...I think both of us were stupid. We just assumed a lot of things we probably shouldn't have. I feel like we've been given another shot...Know however that I have a complicated life and an even more complicated romantic situation. You might have already guessed that with how close I was to my sister and Kasumi..."
"Oh. It was pretty obvious that you were together. But I got the feeling that you were the secondary for both. Yes?"
Elisira looked surprised. "Yes. But how did you know?"
Solana shrugged. "It isn't all that uncommon in turian adults. We usually can have a burning passion for only one person, but that doesn't mean we can't find room in our lives to be very close to more. The concept of primaries and secondaries has always been there in our society."
Garrus added, "Yeah, I never actually found it weird that you guys were together. It was quite surprising to me that Jacob became agitated after finding out."
"I see...Damn, even big sis and Sumi don't think much of it, but then again, they grew up among other races. I spent most of my childhood around my own species, so I guess that I have this ingrained notion that what I have is strange. I don't think its wrong, never ever that...but it is difficult to explain to other humans. I do want to try with you, however. Both my sister and Sumi were supportive of me pursuing you. I want to see if our feelings can take us somewhere beautiful. What I'm asking is...do you?"
Solana nodded and said, "Yes...yes, I do. I may take some time to warm up to everyone properly, but I have a good feeling about it."
Elisira smiled. "Thank you", she said, and started caressing Solana's face gently. Solana nuzzled into her hand and made a happy keening noise.
Garrus shook his head and smiled at the scene. It was cute and heartwarming. He was very close to Elisira and loved her as dearly as he did his own little sister. It just felt so right and providential.
He decided to give them some space and time, quietly walking out of the med bay to his favored workspace at the ship's battery. The coming months were going to be very interesting, indeed.
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