Author Note:
I finally updated! Yay me! Thanks for sticking it out for this one! I'll let you get right to it, but I do want to encourage you guys to check out the song that this chapter is named after as it was the song that inspired this whole tale to begin with. Please forgive any errors, I do not have a beta nor the time to really go back and edit as I ought.
Quick shout out to all those that reviewed, favorited, and are following the story! I appreciate the support. Enjoy!
Chapter 9 - Glowing
And you're trying to save me
From your past of bad decisions
But my decision's always gonna be
To follow you (to follow you)
Never gonna stop 'til the clock stops ticking
Never gonna quit 'til my legs stop kicking
I will follow you and we'll both go missing
No, I'm never giving up 'til my heart stops beating
Never letting go 'til my lungs stop breathing
I will follow you and we'll both go missing
The Script - Glowing
Location: Crescent Nebula/Tasale System/Illium – Information Trade Center/ Dr. Liara T'Soni's Office
2185 CE – February 17, 3:33 pm
Miranda did her best to quench the sudden anxiety and (though she would vehemently deny) jealousy that seemed to surge through her.
"Commander?" Miranda questioned, trying her best not to stare at the asari before them.
"Just give us a moment." Shepard's eyes caught Miranda's, and the woman cursed how easily the Commander could now sway her. Ever since Miranda found out that Shepard was really Eliza, her emotions had become absolutely muddled. They had still not spoken about it since the (delicious) shuttle incident – and she knew that the Commander would still deny it – but that still did not deter her buried emotions to rise with vengeance. "I won't be long, Miri."
Miranda ignored the quiet, but equally questionable expression that fleeted upon Liara's face when Shepard had informally addressed her. Although she would never admit that she felt great satisfaction upon seeing it. That's right, Doctor, she's mine. Miranda's self-satisfied green-eyed monster voiced; she quickly stanched the sudden pettiness. She was not becoming that person.
The operative diverted her attention back to her commander. "Yes, Commander." Miranda forced out, wanting nothing more than to stay by her side and figure out exactly what Eliza and Liara had to speak about in private.
For Cerberus' interests of course…
Miranda left the office with Garrus beside her, feeling slighted that she was unwelcomed and forced herself to sit in the waiting room. She was half aware that Garrus chose to lounge against the wall across from her. They did not speak – trapped in their own musings – nor did Miranda have any inclination to do so while they waited; her mind too preoccupied with the two individuals in the room in front of her.
Miranda had a few ideas on what they could possibly be speaking about. Perhaps Liara would admit how Cerberus procured the Commander's body? She never did tell Eliza how they retrieved her, finding that knowledge unimportant at the time, but also as a personal promise to Liara. The once archeologist had practically begged Miranda not to inform the Commander of her involvement, having wanted to explain it to her when the time came. Come to think of it, the asari was very emotional throughout the whole ordeal; especially when she had helped them obtain the Commander's body from the Shadow Broker…
Miranda's posture tensed at the thought. Liara had seemed emotionally invested when they were on the hunt for the Commander's body…more so than a friend would. It was quite obvious at the time how much the doctor cared for the famous Spectre. The operative gazed at the closed doors of Dr. T'Soni's office. Did her Eliza return the asari's affections? Was that why they needed to speak in private? Were they trying to figure out if the other still felt the same? Had Eliza moved on? After all, nineteen years was a long time…and it would explain why Eliza had never sought Miranda out…
Miranda's stomach plummeted uncomfortably.
I'm sorry, Miranda, but I'm not who you think I am, and for that, I am truly sorry.
Eliza's words in the shuttle hurtled itself into the forefront of the operative's mind, causing the operative's knuckles to go ghastly white as she gripped the forearm of her chair.
Oh, God. Miranda exclaimed to herself as she came to this realization. It explained Eliza's reluctance and admittance. No. Miranda mentally shook her head. There had to be another reason. The Eliza she knew wasn't so cold and detached…she was warm, compassionate…and loyal.
But…
Miranda hadn't been exactly loyal during the last nineteen years, despite herself believing Eliza was dead; she was after all human…and lonely. Various past lovers passed through Miranda's mind, causing her to squirm uncomfortably in shame. Her shame soon turned into disgust, which then turned to nausea as she pictured Eliza and Liara together.
The office doors opened abruptly, saving Miranda from her own imagination and revealing a rather annoyed Shepard.
"You all right, Shepard?" Garrus asked as Shepard marched by them with an irritable scowl.
"Fine. I got some information about the Justicar and assassin, but Liara needs helps hacking some terminals first." The Commander replied bitterly.
"She's not coming?" Garrus inquired as Miranda stepped in place beside her Commander.
"No." Shepard muttered darkly like a spurned lover, making Miranda's doubts increase ten-fold.
Location: Crescent Nebula/Tasale System/Illium – Eclipse Hideout
5:25 pm
The first thing Miranda recalled was pain; piercing warmth that vibrated throughout her whole body – starting near her abdomen and traveling outward into her arms and legs. It took her a moment to register her bodily functions, but once she did, her senses were assaulted instantaneously; her muscles contracted and protested in discomfort; her nose smelt the burning of flesh; her mouth tasted the rustic iron of blood; her eyes were flared with bright, burning colors; her ears took in the panicked shrieking and shrilling noises all about her. All in all, Miranda knew she was not faring well.
Come on, Miranda. It'll be fine! We're just going to get the ship's name for the Justicar; a simple grab and drop and we'll be on our merry way!
Miranda's eyes skewered shut as another wave of immeasurable pain shrouded her.
She was going to have to give Eliza a piece of her mind on what constituted as simple and merry.
"Miri!" A warm pressure pressed against Miranda's belly, causing the operative to hiss in displeasure. "Miri!" There was no mistaking the frantic voice that reverberated above her. She tried to assure the Commander of her situation, but all that escaped her mouth was harsh coughs and blood.
"No! God, no! Why? Miri? Why? I had it!" She heard the commander scold her as her ears began to register the distinct sounds of gunfire and explosions.
Miranda resisted the urge to roll her eyes at the reprimand. Commander Shepard definitely did not have it! She had practically sashayed herself in front of Captain Wasea and a rocketeer – and being the more rational and smarter of the two, Miranda had quickly pushed Eliza out of the way of the simultaneous attack of biotics and screeching rockets.
The operative had barely enough time to construct a feeble biotic barrier after she had unceremoniously shoved her Commander out of harm's way and exposed herself instead. Miranda hazily recalled being flown backward by the attacks and into the Minagen X3 crates. That was not a merry experience at all.
A cloud of red shrouded her instantly as the red sand concoction erupted from its canisters when she had slammed into the crates. She knew that the biotic drug had instantly entered her bloodstream by the enhanced sensation of her biotic aura and senses. She also knew it entered her when she smelt the burning of her own flesh on her lower abdomen.
Miranda's back arched as the burning sensation intensified, along with the warm pressure she had felt earlier; Eliza must be applying the pressure to stay the bleeding. She may have uttered a shout of agony, but it was hard to ascertain over all the overwhelming and sudden overlapping noises about her.
"Shepard, we need to move!" A gruff voice – Garrus – sounded. "They're regrouping!"
"Bastards ar' tryin' ta corna' us in."
"We can't move her! She's bleeding out!" Shepard's hand hovered above her, pressuring the wound on the side of Miranda's abdomen as she shouted off to her right. "I'm going to kill that asari." Miranda barely heard, let alone recognized the dangerous undertones in her commander's voice as a tingling sensation began to implode within her mind. She instantly recognized what was happening to her as her thoughts began to muddle.
Damn! Miranda tried to fight the fogging of her mind and the spectral images that were surfacing in her mind's eye. Minagen was a hallucinogen! She refused to be controlled! To be weak!
"Shep! They're coming!" Kasumi yelled over a barrage of gunfire.
"Hold positions!" Shepard shouted before turning back to the bleeding operative. "Miri! Stay with me!" The gentle cajoling of a gloved hand struck Miranda out of her fuzzy state for a brief moment; the gesture igniting the buried memories of her past. Miranda's vision cleared for a brief moment as she searched the Commander's green, resolute eyes.
"Stay. With. Me."
Blue eyes wavered against her will.
Oh no.
Miranda felt the tug within her brain dragging her into a downward spiral of darkness and phantom memories.
Stay with me.
Location: Local Cluster/Sol System/Earth/Australia – Brisbane/Hawke Estate
2166 CE – June 5, 10:34 pm
"Stay with me."
"What?" Miranda groggily glanced down at the woman that was lazily tracing patterns on her exposed stomach. The night's activities had nearly left her spent as both women had ended up being a ball of blissful tangled limbs.
Miranda adjusted herself against her pillow to gain a better view at Eliza who, not a moment ago, was using her stomach as a pillow and canvas. She slowly became more alert as she made eye contact with stormy blue, resolute eyes. Miranda sighed in defeat as she gained more awareness of Eliza's plea; it was not an unfamiliar one.
"Stay." Eliza mumbled and glanced away in embarrassment. Instead, she gingerly focused her attention on Miranda's stomach once more; however, she removed her finger to place her lips there instead.
"You know I can't." Miranda shivered from the contact as Eliza asked her to stay the night. The teen was trying to be sneaky by distracting her with those kisses, but it wouldn't work. It couldn't work – for both their sakes.
"Why?" Miranda lightly rolled her eyes at the childish tone that escaped from her lover's lips.
"Eliza, you know why." The young Lawson did her best to ignore the pout that had formed on Eliza's lips. They had had this discussion many times already. She couldn't stay the night; her father would kill her if he discovered their dalliance; they were already pushing it when they became true friends.
"I don't." Eliza muttered into Miranda's skin before pressing another light kiss.
"He'll find out." Miranda sighed out delightfully as she fought against the carnal side that was slowly reawakening from Eliza's attention. God, Eliza could be so manipulative sometimes.
Miranda mentally shook her head at their situation. Why was it that she was always the voice of reason in their relationship? Eliza knew that they were already risking far too much when they had escalated their relationship to a more intimate level a few weeks ago. Of course, at that time, Reason had already been tossed aside (along with their clothes) when that occurred. Best lapse in judgment, by far, but Miranda vowed never to be so reckless afterwards – they could not afford it, especially when her Father was demanding more of her time.
"No, Miri." Miranda resisted a giggle when she felt Eliza's soft chin lightly brush back and forth as her head shook. "I mean, stay with me."
Miranda narrowed her eyes, trying to discern the sudden serious tone that had escaped Eliza's mouth.
Did she mean…
"My birthday is in four months. I'll be eighteen then."
Oh God, she did.
Miranda's mind whirled as her mind recalled the promise Eliza had made. She hadn't thought that Eliza was that serious, even if she believed it in that moment. But…it wasn't possible…she couldn't escape her father. He wouldn't allow it.
"I meant it, Miri. I promised that I'll take you away; he won't hurt you anymore." She felt Eliza brush her lips against the thin scar once more; a constant reminder of one man's obsession and a woman's resolve.
Miranda painfully shut her eyes, not wanting to believe her lover. They couldn't run. Her father would find them and kill them both. She felt the mattress shift in the darkness. The warmth around her lower half suddenly shifted up and along her body until she felt a hovering shadow. Miranda instantly knew that Eliza had moved directly above her.
"Miranda. Look at me." Eliza commanded softly.
After a drawn out moment, Miranda opened her blue eyes to her lover. "We can't." Miranda whispered in a bout of fear and insecurity. She felt so out of place – so vulnerable. All because she feared what would happen to Eliza. All because she fell in love and was selfish to keep the one thing she had as her own, safe. No wonder her Father had been so disgusted at the notion of feelings; it made someone feel so pathetically weak. How had she allowed herself to be so deluded? If this was love then she wanted no –
Her practical mind froze as Eliza gently pressed her forehead against her own; forcing her to stare into Eliza's searching eyes. They were so full of adoration...of promise. Miranda shouldn't want to yearn for a life with this woman. God, they were barely considered adults. What did they know of love?
And yet…
Miranda's breath hitched as Eliza softly swept her bangs from her face. "There's no crime in wanting a purpose of your own, Miri."
And just like that, Eliza had not only further chipped away the ice around Miranda's heart, but exposed her greatest desire: Purpose.
Miranda's hands had found purchase on Eliza's forearms, clenching them as if afraid the woman would disappear if she let go. Tears threatened to spill from Miranda's face as she allowed herself to truly indulge in her secret desire.
Yes, that was what she had truly desired: purpose away from her Father; away from his legacy. To live her own life as she saw fit; to be normal.
"He won't let me." Miranda weakly replied. "I can't…" She fought back the emotion to cry as she gripped Eliza harder. A part of her despised how easily Eliza could render her so vulnerable, but another, more dominant part, relished the ability to feel and be human. And yet, she knew that she should not entertain her desires, knew that her father would be merciless and take away Eliza if she continued on this path. She silently begged Eliza to understand her circumstance and leave well enough alone.
"Yes, you can, Miranda." Eliza gently soothed her lover. "You're amazing, you know that? You're intelligent, beautiful and—"
"I'm what he's made me to be." Miranda interrupted with angry frustration. "My father made me—"
"Did he make you love science?" Eliza easily interjected.
"What?" Miranda gazed up in confusion.
"Did he make you prefer Michelangelo's sculptures over his paintings? Or give you your love for reading? Was he the one that wanted to create his own biotic move or train just as hard to impress him with it? Or give you that tell of scratching your neck when you're nervous? Or how you feint left and attack whenever I try to flick my foil from the right, when you should just block like a normal person?" Eliza began to ramble out quickly – defiantly. "Did he make you to read that weird series from the 21st Century about wizards and owls?"
"That was for educational purposes!" Miranda replied with an indignant and embarrassed blush.
Eliza seemed to ignore Miranda's outburst, but the mischief in her eyes made Miranda know better.
"Did he make you prefer milk over honey in your tea, Miri?"
"You're being ridiculous!" Miranda growled out. "You're missing the point!" Frustrated with Eliza' absurd questions and lack of understanding, she tried to take matters into her own hands by getting up and leaving the bed, but was immediately halted by the unmoving woman above her.
"No, Miri," Eliza's eyes blazed with an intense emotion that made Miranda's spine tingle, "you're missing the point." She gently, but firmly cupped the young Lawson's face. "Just because Henry Lawson made you, that doesn't mean he molded you into the woman you are today." She gently coaxed a stunned Miranda back down. "How long will it take for you to realize that you're your own person?"
Miranda's breath hitched as she processed her lover's words. How was it possible that this young woman existed? To have such goodness and love that it was utterly overwhelming and unbearable at times; to be able to see the depths of a person and bring the best to the surface; to make them want to believe that they were worth something? It was a good thing that Eliza had a good heart, for Miranda dreaded to imagine what destruction Eliza could cause with that gift of hers if she used it for evil intentions.
"I…" Miranda was at a loss for words. Everything she had spoken was finally making sense within her mind. Was it possible that she could live her own life?
"Oh, you silly woman," Eliza sighed as her thumb gently wiped a tear that had formed unknowingly on Miranda's face, "don't you know that I fell in love with you – quirks and all?"
It all happened instantaneously within Miranda's mind: 16 years of indoctrination began to tumble to the ground by a woman's sheer tenacity and will; Eliza had finally made her realize that she was more than what a man dictated her to be.
"Are you sure, Eliza?" Miranda allowed her lover an escape route; a chance to flee from all the baggage she had. "My Father will hunt us till we're dead; he's not liable to let me go so easily."
"I'm sure, Miranda. If we plan this right, I promise you'll never have to look over your shoulder; never have to be what he tells you to be." Eliza assured in a soft, but determined whisper. "I promise you'll be free to live your own life; he'll never hurt you again."
Eliza's words made Miranda's heart swell with every emotion that her Father had ever detested in life. "And you'll be there?" Miranda asked, feeling more and more confident in Eliza.
"Until death." Eliza's countenance seemed to glow as she leaned in to kiss Miranda tenderly.
"Promise me?" Miranda whispered the moment their kiss broke, feeling absolutely elated.
"I promise." Eliza whispered back as she coyly pressed herself against her lover.
Location: Crescent Nebula/Tasale System/Illium – Exact whereabouts…hazy.
2185 CE – February 17, 5:43 pm
The sound of pounding feet erupted in her eardrums as Miranda briefly managed to awaken from her delusional state. Miranda resisted the urge to grimace as her body throbbed painfully, but it soon didn't matter as a pleasant sensation numbed it all away. She was unsure of what was going on, as her mind was hard to trust, but damn, did it feel good.
"It's okay Miri; just hang in there, okay?" A frantic foggy voice echoed about her. Miranda squinted up at the makeshift figure above her before her vision cleared briefly. She spotted the Commander's concerned features, but it quickly morphed into her teenaged counterpart and for some reason, Miranda found it extremely hilarious. Her mirth continued to grow as she noticed what the young Commander was sporting: her Dragon Blood armor; giving her such a dashing and chivalrous aura that reminded Miranda of the Knights of old English lore.
"My hero!" Miranda proclaimed before giggling.
"The Princess has fuckin' lost it." Someone spoke from her left, striking Miranda with another bout of thought and laughter. She was the Princess and Eliza was her Knight. How romantically poetic! They should run off into the sunset together now and leave all this crazy Reaper business behind. Perhaps back to Earth? Eliza had promised that they would live in Italy!
Miranda temporarily paused in her laughter as her face scrunched up in thought. Didn't they play this scene out before?
"Shepard. Must hurry. High dosage of Minagen in her blood. Very bad." An obnoxious, rapid voice spoke next, causing Miranda to swat a bloody hand in the air as well as her linger thought; it was interrupting her fantasy with Eliza.
"Go away." – a giggle – "The Princess commands it!" Miranda announced through a fit of snickers.
"She's getting worse, Shepard."
"No shit, Scarface? Even this is weirdin' me out."
"Cut the chatter!" Eliza barked in anger, but if Miranda had been fully focused, she alone would have discerned the worry hidden in her Commander's voice. "Garrus take Zaeed and Jack – go let Samara know what we've found. Kasumi and Mordin – with me. Let's move!"
Miranda felt herself being lifted into a warm cocoon before flying off into the sunset with her Knight. Although, as Miranda began to unwillingly drift back into the cold void she had surfaced from, she had to admit that the flight was very bumpy…and she hated being called Princess.
Location: Local Cluster/Sol System/Earth/Australia – Brisbane/Hawke Estate
2166 CE – June 8, 2:47 am
Her lungs burned as she skidded to a stop in front of the lavish rosewood doors of Hawke's home. Barely in taking a breath, Miranda pounded a frantic fist upon the door, hoping that this was all a nightmare. She knew everything was too good to be true; knew that her Father had eyes and ears everywhere.
Otto appeared at the door, dressed already in his nightgown with a poorly hidden frown on his face. However, the scowl dissipated once he recognized her at the door. "Miss Lawson?" The sophisticated butler had tried his best to remain impassive, but his voice still leaked of surprise. "What in Heaven is the matter?" Concern etched his voice as he regarded her slightly frazzled state; she had visited enough for him to know that she was a calm, collected, and charming young woman that did not harbor any crazed behavior.
"I apologize for the late hour, Otto, but I must speak with Eliza; it is urgent." Miranda did her best to remain her poised self, but her nerves were beginning to seep out of her control as her mind reflected upon her recently discovered news.
Otto regarded Miranda once more, no doubt debating whether or not to grant her request – urgent or not, Otto was duty-bound to protect his young charge of any suspicious occurrences. "Miss Lawson, I cannot in good conscious allow you entry unless you state your business with Mistress Hawke."
"What I have to speak to her about is private." Miranda automatically snapped out. She took a visible breath before speaking in a softer tone. "Please, Otto, I must speak with her." Miranda tried to refrain the begging from her voice.
"I am sorry—" Otto began, but Miranda paid no heed as her eyes flickered behind him.
Miranda spotted a silhouette behind Otto and immediately feared that it was Howard Hawke; she did not want her visit to reach her father so soon. The butler seemed to have sensed the presence – and Miranda's sudden eye movement – and he immediately stepped back to allow the personage to appear before Miranda.
The brawny figure's appearance caused Miranda to relax as she recognized Jarvis. Eliza's mute bodyguard was a sensible and intellectual man that knew Miranda would never harm his charge in any way. He also knew that Miranda was not a woman that would shamelessly call upon Eliza in the dead of night without cause.
"Jarvis, Miss Lawson is calling upon Mistress Hawke regarding an urgent matter, however she—" Otto stopped short the moment Jarvis held up a hand. The protector never removed his attention from Miranda as he regarded her for a moment. He then turned the same hand around and motioned her to step inside.
Miranda wasted no time and quickly entered the household with Otto bowing back quietly before shutting the door behind them.
"Do try to be quiet, Miss Lawson; Master Hawke would be very displeased if he is to be awakened." Otto cautioned before heading off toward the kitchen. "I shall prepare some tea. No doubt Mistress Hawke will need a pick-me-upper."
"Thank you, Otto." Miranda replied, knowing that the butler was merely concerned and protective. He was a kind hearted man, so unlike her own handlers and caretakers.
Miranda followed Jarvis up the stairs and toward the familiar path to Eliza's bedroom. She did her best to refrain from increasing her speed, trying to maintain some semblance of control over her emotions. She couldn't believe that this was happening; it was a nightmare.
Finally, Jarvis stopped before Eliza's door and gestured for Miranda to enter. Miranda gave the man a grateful smile, thankful that he understood her need for privacy and for the trust that he bestowed upon her.
Miranda entered quietly, not wanting to startle her lover from her slumber. She shut the door just as quietly, thankful for the safe haven that she had always found within these four walls. Leaning against the door, she closed her eyes, taking in the familiar warmth that resonated within the room, so unlike the cold presence that seeped within her own home. In that instance, Miranda was able to ignore her devastated emotions; to ignore the fear and vulnerability that was conjured within her by one man. She was able to find a source of calmness, and for that, she knew, would be the motivation for her to move forward; to live.
After a moment, Miranda opened her blue eyes, instantly locating the sleeping teenager. A warm smile – one that only ever appeared for one woman – graced her perfect lips as she gazed upon Eliza. The woman slept deeply – unaware of the tragic news she brought – as the moonlight gently bathed and caressed her with a white glow.
Miranda approached Eliza's bedside and carefully knelt before her. She knew she was being selfish, but she wanted to live; wanted to have a life with a woman that was able to break through all her barriers, see all her scars, and still love her for them.
"Eliza." Miranda softly feathered her lover's cheek with her fingers. "Eliza." Miranda repeated as she continued to stroke the young Hawke. "Please wake up." She whispered, suddenly feeling all her fears rushing back.
"Miri?" Eliza groggily replied as she squinted up at Miranda; she was typically a light sleeper.
"Hey." Miranda replied lamely, suddenly feeling a bout of cowardice. Her apprehension must have registered on her face because Eliza suddenly became wide awake with worry.
"What's wrong?" She blinked away sleep as she seemed to study Miranda's features, making the young Lawson squirm under her gaze; no one but her father seemed to have that ability.
"He means to replace me." There. The truth left her immediately and she did her best not to allow her emotions to surge out of her; she already had a lapse of sanity when she broke down in her room after overhearing her father's conversation with one of his scientists. Suddenly the recent visits to the laboratory, the blood tests, the increased training regimen, and the more than norm aloofness of her father all made sense. He was meaning to replace her for it seemed – from what she had overheard – that she was becoming rebellious, more independent than he would have liked. Her hand unknowingly gripped Eliza's bed covers. How could her father replace her so easily? Was she truly just a commodity for him; something to be tossed aside once she outlived her usefulness? Sixteen years she had been raised (kept) – no – groomed to be his legacy. Did those years all mean nothing? Granted, he never showed any fatherly affection beyond the small praises that she so desperately yearned for. But still…was she not his daughter? Did she…not…mean…something to him?
"I won't let him." A mixture of passion and anger escaped Eliza's lips as she startled Miranda out of her thoughts.
Miranda blinked away her thoughts and opted to stare at Eliza, unsure if she heard correctly. She had been hoping that Eliza's promises were true; had been hoping that the trust and love she had developed for her had not been fabricated. That she meant something to someone.
"I won't let him take you." Eliza's assured, her blue eyes blazing under the moonlight. "We'll leave now." Eliza stated as Miranda stared in silence, wondering if this was still a dream that she had yet to awake from.
Miranda bit her lips, completely unsure of the future. She worried for Eliza's safety, knowing that her father would stop at nothing to hunt both of them across the galaxy. They needed to disappear, if only to grant some reprieve from the egomaniacal man. Miranda's mind began to concoct various plans of escape. Eliza had the money (Miranda's money was all controlled so that would not do), it was true, but they lacked the knowledge to truly disappear…they needed help.
"What are you thinking?" Eliza's curious whisper intruded onto Miranda's thought process.
Miranda ignored Eliza, knowing that she could not be distracted as her mind sifted through all the contacts and connections that she knew of. Her eyes lit up as she thought of the one organization that would protect them from her father.
"I have plan." Miranda whispered out, blue eyes flashing with a burning determination that she never knew she truly possessed.
"Okay…" A perplexed, but accepting expression settled on Eliza's face and Miranda resisted the urge to kiss her; it was not the time.
"Do you trust me, Eliza?" Miranda gently asked as she finalized the inner workings of her plans.
"Yes." The instant response caused the young Lawson to beam.
"We can't leave yet; we need resources. My father is a hard man to evade." She began to explain.
"What do you need me to do?" Miranda resisted a broadening smile to form on her face at Eliza's willingness. The woman was completely selfless and it reminded her of the old heroes that her caretaker once read to her about; knights so chivalrous that their sheer tenacity would overcome any obstacle for their queen. Although, some of those stories didn't end very well for the knights; Miranda would do her best to avoid that end.
"Gather as much money and supplies as you can get without raising suspicion and meet me tomorrow night at the skyport." She informed the Hawke heiress as she forced her mind back on task.
"Wait, what are you going to do? You're not going back there are you?" Eliza sat up, her covers falling gracefully off her shoulders as she tried to pick up Miranda's train of thought.
"I must. We need to gain leverage and protection from my father. I have a few ideas of where we can obtain that, but it will take time. Meet me tomorrow night, 8 o'clock?" Miranda explained, perhaps a bit desperately, hoping that Eliza would agree and not ask further questions; the less she knew the safer she would be in case anything happened.
Eliza bit her lips and Miranda knew she was debating on questioning further.
"Trust me, Eliza." She whispered as she gently kissed her. "Please trust me."
It took a moment or two, but the young Hawke finally nodded. "Okay. Skyport. Tomorrow night. 8 o'clock." Eliza repeated, before adding a final thought. "We need a code word."
"What?" Miranda frowned, unsure what Eliza meant.
"In case anything goes wrong." Eliza elaborated. "If we see anything suspicious, we call one another and state a phrase."
Miranda pondered on Eliza's suggestion before nodding in compliance. Yes, that would be preferable; safe. "What do you have in mind?"
Eliza sat silently for a moment before a grin spread upon her lips. "Death is the only serious preoccupation in life."
Miranda blinked. "Of all the lines, you pick that one from The Count of Monte Cristo?" A teasing lit crossed her features.
"What? It's the only one I can think of that doesn't sound too suspicious." A blush managed to form on Hawke's face.
"Right…" Miranda skeptically replied, feeling incredibly light despite their situation.
"It is!" Eliza defended.
Location: Crescent Nebula/Tasale System/Illium – Exact whereabouts…even more hazy.
2185 CE – February 17, 6:06 pm
Miranda jerked violently against the warm cocoon that held her. A stabbing pain erupted from her stomach and expanded like a tyrant on a conquest; spreading from one origin and attacking everything around it. She screamed as the pain traversed and intensified.
"Miri!" She heard a garbled voice exclaim.
"Oh, dear. What happened?" A stern feminine voice asked.
"She was wounded…flew int-…mina…plea…rry!" Miranda gasped out in pain, her protector's words getting more incoherent by the second.
"—et her on th-…able.."
She felt a cold object upon her back and grimaced as the warmth on her front withdrew. Miranda became frantic realizing that Eliza was leaving her. She knew they should have never separated. She should have known that her father was a step ahead of her. "No! Eliza don't go. He'll kill you!" She clenched at the warmth, fearing her hero would die when she faced the dragon.
The warmth tensed, but gripped her hand with her own. "I'm right here, Miri." Eliza's clear voice penetrated the fog, easing her worries for a moment before another wave of pain shot through her. She screamed once more.
"Shep-…move…-ow." The other voice commanded.
The majority of Eliza's warmth withdrew, save for a hand. Miranda's hand throbbed as it clung to the little amount of heat that it was allotted to have.
Location: Local Cluster/Sol System/Earth/Australia – Brisbane/Lawson Enterprises
2166 CE – June 8, 2:15pm
Miranda craftily entered one of her father's lab rooms. She had only visited the facility when commanded to – usually for medical purposes. She easily remembered the routes and security systems that were in place; the advantage of a photographic memory, and had "borrowed" one of the main medical technician's passcodes and ID badge; a feat she managed this very morning when she was brought in for another round of blood tests.
It had been exactly 12 hours since she had left Eliza's home and returned to her father. She had procured basic supplies earlier in the day and hid them in a safe, but accessible location for when she would meet Eliza. Now, she needed to gain a bargaining chip.
Miranda shifted confidently through the lab. Thus far, she had managed to sneak into the facility dressed as a simple lab tech and rerouted the security feeds with a handy bug that Eliza gave her months ago, before entering the Technology Wing of the facility, where her prize awaited.
She stopped at an open terminal, donning a passing lab technician a smile as she pretended to belong, before accessing the terminal's database. She tried not to smirk as the lab tech she had just smiled at stumbled into a desk; she was a dazzle to be sure – she had worn her hair up in a clip, exposing her neckline as she wore a modest blue dress underneath her lab coat.
Miranda adjusted her glasses with a delicate finger before typing further. She knew the data that she had "stolen" from Eliza was located here; after all, this was the area where they were designing some of the Hawke prodigy's prototypes. And failing miserably at replicating it, she thought smugly.
Of course, Miranda could have gone straight to Eliza to garner a copy, but she needed the data encoded already…and honestly, she wanted to involve her lover as least as possible. She found the files moments later and began checking the contents for authenticity and to determine how much was deciphered by her father's techs.
Her eyes scanned over the codes that Eliza had encrypted her files with, only recognizing a few strands of data. Miranda had to admit, Eliza was one of the best encoders she had ever encountered – even better than herself. Her father's technicians had only managed to extract a few plans from the data and those were the files Eliza had meant for them to find. She continued to browse further.
Miranda's eyes caught sight of one of Eliza's mass relay files. A delicate raise of her slender eyebrow betrayed her surprise. She didn't remember seeing Eliza's research of mass relays and mass effects in the data codes that she siphoned for her father. Where had it come from? She tried to access the file, but was immediately bombarded by a heavily encrypted code that would perhaps take years to crack. It was Eliza's code…but again, Miranda knew that Eliza never allowed this particular file to be taken; she had said it was too dangerous.
Miranda scratched her neck, pondering how the file came into her father's possession. The only logical conclusion was that her father no longer trusted her and had obtained another agent to gather the information…someone close to Eliza.
But who?
Miranda's fingers fidgeted against the keyboard. Something was wrong here. She could feel it and it unnerved her greatly. Whatever it is, she knew that she would have to warn Eliza immediately; this was now bigger than their escape.
Hurrying, Miranda began to download the files onto an OSD drive, all the while wondering what her father was planning and who the other informant was. It took several more minutes before the download was complete. Pocketing the drive, the young Lawson heir easily escaped the facility and headed toward her next destination, trying to shake off the nagging feeling that something bad was going to happen. Trying to settle her thoughts, Miranda carefully rehearsed for the next phase of her escape with Eliza.
Location: Local Cluster/Sol System/Earth/Australia – Brisbane/Lawson Estate
4:00pm
"Miss Lawson." The holographic image of the Illusive Man shimmered briefly as his blue cybernetic eyes studied the perfected teenager thoughtfully. He took a gentle puff of his cigarette before exhaling a thin cloud of smoke, clouding his image briefly.
"Illusive Man." Miranda equally greeted the man with a studious expression. She stood within her father's office, a professional and no-nonsense air about her; she needed to assert the image of control and power.
"I must admit, I am not surprised to find you before me; it was only a matter of time. Shall I assume that your father has no knowledge of this meeting?" He tilted his head thoughtfully at her.
Miranda remained impassive, although her mind whirled at the Illusive Man's implications. How did he know that she would come before him? "I'll get to the point," Miranda ignored the question; she didn't have time for games, especially if her father would be returning within the hour, "I have something that may be of used to you." She revealed the OSD.
"Ah, and what may that be?" The Illusive Man asked, tilting his head in a condescending manner, but Miranda could tell by the way his eyes seemed to alight, that he was curious.
"Let us just say, that my Father hasn't exactly given you everything from Hawke Industries." Miranda shared. It was true, Henry Lawson did in fact share Eliza's data, but Miranda knew better. Her father was a business man, and like most business men, Henry Lawson kept the best of the spoils for himself. Miranda idly twirled the disc before the Cerberus head. "I have come to rectify my Father's mistake." She declared.
"Indeed." The Illusive Man adjusted himself in his chair before putting out the not nearly finished cigarette. "Now tell me, Miss Lawson, why defy your Father?" He asked, seemingly bemused, and suddenly, Miranda understood that she was not the one controlling the conversation.
Not one to show weakness, Miranda plowed forward. "He has forgotten Humanity's interest and has succumbed to his own." She refrained the bitterness to sound from her voice. "We may have never met before, but that does not mean your ideals are not far reaching. I admire your work; your cause." She admitted.
"Hmm." The Illusive Man contemplated the figure before him, no doubt wondering what ulterior motive or consequence would present itself if he defied Henry Lawson. But then again, was it not Henry Lawson that defied him first?
"You admire what Cerberus stands for, so you come bringing information, defying your father all the same. For what purpose, Miss Lawson? From what I understand, you are not so unlike your father: willing to trade something to obtain something in return." Miranda had to admit that the man was very clever…and to the point; it was refreshing. "What do you want in exchange for those plans?"
"Amnesty." Miranda proclaimed. "For myself and another. As you are aware, the moment I deliver this to you, my father will realize that his prized daughter has betrayed him and will react accordingly." She paused in her speech, reining in her emotions, "I am sure you are aware of my origins."
"Indeed. Your father spared no expense in your creation. Your talents have not gone unnoticed; you have a rare gift, one that shouldn't be wasted on business ploys, am I correct?" His eyes bore into her own, and despite it all, Miranda felt mesmerized by his words. How did he know that she desired more than the frivolity of her father's whims? More so, why was he bringing that up?
"I will grant you the amnesty, in return for not only the data, but for your loyalty as well."
Miranda blinked, completely taken aback. Her nerves pulsated and the worry she had felt earlier that day came rushing back. Something was in the air, and it gnawed at her unpleasantly. "My loyalty?" She narrowed her eyes, but made no other gestures to display her unease.
"You are exactly what Cerberus stands for, Miss Lawson. The perfect woman; you hold all of humanity's best within you. Surely you can see the waste if you were to merely disappear from your father? Why not do something better? Be better than the shackles that your Father has ensnared you in? I assure you, your talents will not go wasted. You will be helping the expansion and progression of Humanity. Saving lives." He passionately proclaimed, enticing Miranda further. "Having purpose." He added with a charming smile.
Miranda contemplated the Illusive Man's words, finding it hard not to be captivated by them. He was offering a chance for her to find purpose, to be of worth; it was what she had always dreamed for.
But…
A flash of a familiar, warm smile erupted in her thoughts.
Eliza.
What about Eliza?
Miranda's thoughts whirled quickly as she tried to process a way to get her and Eliza out of her father's clutches. "This is the only offer you would concede to?"
"I am severing a rather lucrative association with your Father, Miss Lawson. You must realize that sacrifices must be made in order to ensure Humanities' best interests."
"And you find my loyalty a best interest for Humanity?" She suspiciously inquired.
"I see great potential in you, Miss Lawson. Even I would be a fool to pass this opportunity." He determinedly replied, causing Miranda's insides to ignite with a giddy excitement at his praise.
"You will offer safe passage of the one coming with me if I agree to your terms?" Miranda asked, wanting to make sure that she did not place Eliza in a position of disagreement. "If I take your offer, my friend will go where she pleases, and I can see her?"
The Illusive Man regarded her for a few moments before allowing a small nod to form. "My offer is simply this, Miss Lawson: your loyalty and that data, for protection for you and your friend. As long as you agree to these terms, you and your friend will remain out of your Father's grasp."
Miranda thought hard for a moment, trying to realize the repercussions of something that sounded too good to be true. The rational half of her knew better than to trust a powerful man like the Illusive Man. In hindsight, she knew she was trading one life under one man's control with another like it. She knew it, but she also knew that she had someone else to care for now. And by God, she would keep her safe. She would do anything if it meant Eliza would be safe.
"I accept your terms." Miranda finally decided. She would do this to keep Eliza safe at all cause. And yet, a part of her desperately wanted to accept the offer for herself – to be able to find purpose and be a part of something meaningful was all she ever wanted.
A thin smile appeared on the Illusive Man's face. "Excellent. Welcome to Cerberus, Miranda."
Location: Local Cluster/Sol System/Earth/Australia – Brisbane/Outskirts of the Lawson Estate
7:00 pm
Miranda quietly crouched near the tree that she had hid her supplies. It was a miracle that this day had gone smoothly. She had acquired not only Eliza's data, but had ensured safe passage for her and Eliza. It was just another 60 minutes to go before she and Eliza would meet at the skyport. They would journey to the Citadel together, and there, would meet a the contact that the Illusive Man had employed.
Pulling out her backpack, Miranda did a quick screening of its contents. She had several days of clothes, a few days' rations of food, some credit chits, and Eliza's book that she had yet to return. Tugging everything back into place, she shouldered the pack before a stilling at the sound of a twig snapping.
Quick to react, Miranda pulled the weapon hidden in her boot; the supposed dagger emerged and quickly elongated before it was pointed directly at the intruder. Miranda stared down the line of the portable rapier she had procured from her home and toward the teenage boy that appeared.
"Damn, Miri, chill." Niket held his hands defensively, trying not to aggravate his childhood friend.
Miranda blinked in surprise (ignoring the nickname he had adopted from Eliza; Eliza had made a jealous observation that he was doing that to annoy her, but Miranda had laughed it off to maintain the peace).
"What are you doing here?" Miranda quickly pushed Niket against a tree with her free hand, before scanning the night for her Father's men.
"I could ask you the same thing." Niket gruffed out from Miranda's rough treatment. Miranda continued to gaze outward before declaring it safe. She retracted her rapier and slid it back into her boot.
"I'm leaving Niket." Miranda's words came out harsher than she had intended. Her expression softened when she caught Niket's hurt look. "I'm fed up with Father and his damn legacy. He means to get rid of me, so I'm leaving before he gets the chance."
"You can't be serious, Miranda; you're his daughter. I know it's been hard for you, but that doesn't mean running away is the answer."
Miranda scoffed. Of course Niket wouldn't understand completely; he never knew about Miranda's origins. She had always been afraid to tell him; afraid that he would find her a freak, leaving her all alone.
"It's not safe for me anymore, Niket." She turned to look at him, suddenly feeling ashamed for neglecting him the past year. He had been her first and only friend for the good majority of her life. A good, innocent foundation for a childhood that was robbed from her. She gently touched his cheek, hoping to quell the anger she saw within his eyes. "Please understand."
Her gesture and words seemed to soften his demeanor. "Okay. What can I do to help?" He asked her, causing her to grant him a grateful smile.
"You can go home and pretend you didn't see me; I won't involve you in this."
"Screw that, Miri! I'm not leaving you to do this by yourself. And what of Eliza? She should know; can't she protect you or something?" He asked, but Miranda could easily hear the accusatory tone when Eliza was mentioned.
"Eliza is coming with me." Miranda sheepishly replied.
"What?" Niket exclaimed and Miranda could have sworn she saw a flash of anger mixed in with something else in his eyes. "You're running off with her?"
"It's complicated, but I need you to trust me." She pleaded, but Niket didn't seem to be listening. His eyes seemed to gaze off to their left and his features were getting angrier by the second.
"You damn bitch! Filling her head with stupid fairy tales!" Niket yelled out and before Miranda could register anything, she saw Niket fling a fist at an approaching figure.
It had happened too fast. Niket propelled himself forward, utilizing all his strength to hit Eliza. Miranda's eyes widened at her lover's appearance, but could do nothing as she saw Niket's fist graze her cheek as Eliza pulled her body backwards, twisting her torso to avoid the brunt of the hit. Eliza was faster than Niket and had quickly recovered from her graze before she crouched down and jabbed an elbow into the boy's ribs, effectively causing him to stumble away.
Eliza staggered backwards from her attack, but Miranda recognized the anger in her eyes, and knew that the woman was not done. She spotted Niket getting ready to charge her lover and before her two best friends could harm one another further, Miranda outstretched her arms and placed them both in a stasis field, anger clouding her features from their childlike behavior.
"Enough!" She shouted. Her eyes darted between the two; her visage hauntingly deadly as her arms glowed with her biotic power. "We don't have time for this!" She released them from their biotic bubble. Niket rubbed his injured side, completely subdued from Miranda's interference. However, Eliza was still gearing to knock some sense into Niket, from the way she clenched her fists.
"Enough, Eliza." Miranda repeated, stepping in her lover's sight. "Calm down." She ordered, forcing Eliza to look her in the eyes. "Just try to stay calm." She soothed, touching Eliza's cheek gently. "Stay calm."
It took a moment, but Eliza nodded and began to visibly relax. "Are you okay?" Eliza finally spoke.
"I'm fine; Niket would never hurt me." Miranda wanted to roll her eyes. Was that why Eliza attacked her friend so viciously?
Eliza snorted. "He could try." She glared over Miranda's shoulder and at the boy, who glared defiantly back. "But no, I wasn't talking about that. Shepard said she overheard your father had sent some men to get you." Eliza explained as her eyes glanced around the edges of the Lawson estate.
"Shepard?" Miranda asked, completely perplexed on how Shepard would have known. Sensing her question, Eliza gestured to her ear, where an earpiece was.
"She's been listening to your Father's communique for me. I asked her to keep an eye out for you while I got us supplies."
"You got her involved?" Miranda featured scrunched up in annoyance.
"Not by choice. She bloody ambushed me with questions this afternoon; it's complicated. Needless to say, she wanted to help." Eliza grumbled.
The nagging worry came back again.
"She's not wrong you know. I spotted some of your security searching the mansion, Miri. That's why I came here; it was our favorite spot to hide things, remember?" Niket spoke, eyeing Eliza with trepidation before settling his eyes on Miranda.
Miranda rubbed her temple with one hand as the other rested on her hip. Their plans were getting clouded. She had not expected to involve their friends. As she thought about how she could safely use Niket and Shepard's help, she spotted Eliza's whole body tense and freeze. "What is it?" She asked as the nagging feeling intensified. Something was wrong.
"Shepard. He…your father…my uncle…" Eliza pressed her fingers onto her ear, trying to hear whatever communication was being delivered in her earpiece. "Miri. Your Father and my Uncle are working together now; they have Shepard at my father's old factory. They know we're trying to run." She gasped out in fear.
"What?" Miranda exclaimed, completely torn away from her planning. Everything had been perfect! "Damn it!" She ground her teeth in frustration as she glanced at the time. She knew what Eliza wanted to do, but time had suddenly become sparse. They had to leave now if they were to make it to the skyport for the 8:30 pm shuttle and then meet the Cerberus contact, Lanteia at 12:30 am.
"We have to hurry, Eliza. My father's men are already deployed; we have to leave now." Miranda's voiced her concerns as she turned to the two people before her, trying to make Eliza understand. However, the scared, but determined look on Eliza's face made her own determination waver; she would do anything for Eliza. "Niket, get the skycar ready." She told Niket, wanting to speak with Eliza without an audience. She gestured behind a tree, where she had managed to procure a skycar. Her friend nodded and rushed off, leaving the two lovers alone.
"I know, but I have to go back; my uncle has Shepard." Eliza glanced over to her after she watched Niket run off, and Miranda could easily see the torn look in her eyes.
"Those evil bastards! We need more time…" Miranda growled out in frustration as she whipped her omni-tool out. She typed furiously on it, trying to figure out another transport they could use for their escape; looking for any additional time. She had calculated all of this perfectly; everything was right on schedule, the only thing that held them back was Shepard! She hadn't calculated that her father would take Shepard.
"For all evils there are two remedies – time and silence." Miranda heard her lover mutter. She snapped her head up to look at Eliza staring off in the distance. She gently touched her ear before taking out the earpiece.
"What?" Miranda asked, confused at the reference as she turned to grasp Eliza's hand.
"Don't worry, Miri. I'll be right back, okay? I'll find you at the skyport." Eliza assured with a forced grin as she ignored her question.
Miranda knew that uncertain grin, but despite the churning in her gut, she nodded, still not getting the meaning of the quote. "You better, Eliza." Her tone spluttered out harsher than she had intended and Eliza gripped her hand tighter out of need to comfort her. The nagging feeling was now overwhelming her, to the point that a part of her actually knew that Eliza would not be coming back.
"Miri, we have to go!" Niket interrupted in a panic upon his return. He sat in the driver's seat of the skycar.
No. This was not how it was supposed to end. She refused to allow it. There was only one way that would ease Miranda's mind. "Promise me, Eliza. You get Shepard and you come and find me." Miranda frantically urged as she sensed the oncoming threat. She needed to hear her say it.
"I will. Now go." Eliza once more assured as they slowly parted, fingers lingering as much as possible.
"Find me!" Miranda stressed, wanting to hear her lover promise; she never broke a promise.
"I promise." Eliza pushed herself forward for a quick, reassuring kiss before bounding off. Her fingers finally slipped away and with agonizing concern, Miranda watched as her lover ran off to aid Shepard without a backward glance.
Miranda stood in the darkness, eyes still latched in the direction of Eliza's path. Her fingers rolled the object that Eliza had placed in her hand just seconds before. She glanced down at the earpiece before placing it in her ear.
I don't care! Just find her! And make sure you secure the lab! I don't want my legacy compromised!
Miranda's brow furrowed as she heard her father's voice over the radio. Wasn't she his supposed legacy? She paused. Unless…no…her father couldn't have done it so soon.
"Miri! Let's go!" Niket's voice rang out.
What am I paying you for? Find her! Search the east side of the estate. She's known to go there.
Miranda paid no heed to the remainder of her father's commands. Her mind had only registered one thing:
He had done it. He had already created her replacement. She had…a sister. An odd protective feeling erupted in her chest, one that she was not aware that she possessed until she became intimate with Eliza; however, this one was far more poignant. Miranda's eyes narrowed dangerously, her eyebrows drawn in an angry slant. She would not allow him to ruin her sister's life as he did to hers.
Determined, she hurried into the skycar. "Take me to my father's lab, Niket."
"Are you barking mad?" Niket guffawed. "I thought you were trying to run away?!"
"There's something I need to do, and besides, if this distracts my father from Eliza, the more pleasure I'll take in it." She explained and was grateful when Niket questioned her no further and propelled the car toward her birthplace.
Location: Local Cluster/Sol System/Earth/Australia – Brisbane/Outskirts of Lawson Enterprises
8:18pm
Miranda breathed a sigh of relief as she carefully placed the sleeping babe in a small carrier.
Oriana.
That was her sister's name. Miranda couldn't help the smile that formed on her face. She had a sister, and from what she gathered from her father's research, Oriana was her genetic twin. It had been a tough battle to rescue her; Miranda was completely exhausted, not to mention bloody and bruised, but nothing that her body couldn't handle. Besides, Miranda thought as she once more made sure Ori was secured, the reward of seeing her sister out of her father's clutches and the look on her father's face was worth it.
Shepard has secured the package. I repeat. Shepard has secured the package.
Miranda froze as the earpiece sounded in her ear. What were her father's men talking about? Her heart began to beat fast as her hands became clammy at the implications of the message.
Perfect. Once you have the package in sight, eliminate her and tell Shepard that our deal is now complete. Her father's orders were finite, allowing no mistake on who the target was. And find Miranda! She has my daughter!
Our men are still in pursuit, sir; we'll have her momentarily.
"No." Miranda whispered. She hurriedly secured Oriana before clamoring into the driver's seat. She suddenly wished she hadn't sent Niket off to distract her father's guards; he would have helped given her some semblance of calmness, and probably would have been safer…
Miranda started the skycar and quickly made her way toward the old Hawke factory. She only prayed she would make it in time.
Location: Local Cluster/Sol System/Earth/Australia – Brisbane/Hawke Skycar Factory
8:37pm
Package has been eliminated.
Miranda stood in her hiding spot, shocked beyond measure as she watched the factory burn. She wanted to scream in despair as she felt her whole world ignite in flames. She wanted to go in there, to save her lover, but Oriana's crying froze her in place. What was she to do?
A loud explosion imploded from the base of the factory, causing violent shudders to harass the ground as the building's fire licked the air. Dark smoke spiraled throughout the area, shrouding it in an eerie glow as the red, yellow, and blues of the fire contrasted against it.
Miranda fell to her knees. She had known. She had known that nagging feeling meant something bad was going to happen. Her Eliza…
It was so hard to breathe. Her chest constricted in agony as she realized the reality of her lover's fate. Miranda stifled back a horrific sob. She couldn't break yet… not yet. There was no time for her to mourn; her father's men were still securing the site. And Oriana needed her. The crying babe was the only catalyst that maintained Miranda to her sanity. She couldn't lose it. Not yet.
She clenched her fists in anger. Her father had done this…with Shepard's help.
Shepard.
Anger now filled her. Shepard was to blame. She had taken Eliza from her. Miranda clenched her fists. If she ever saw Shepard again, she would kill her for taking away the one woman that made her feel human.
Location: Crescent Nebula/Tasale System/Illium – Normandy SR-2/Medical Bay
2185 CE – February 17, 7:12 pm
"Miranda, calm down!" Miranda barely recognized her Commander's voice as her mind was fogged by her haunting hallucination. She thrashed at another approaching figure, not wanting them to touch her. She had enough of the blood tests! Enough of her father's legacy! She refused to help him replace her!
"Get off of me!" She growled out.
"Miri, it's okay! Relax! It's just a sedative!"
"Shepard, help me restrain her!"
"Shepard?!" Miranda's voice came out as a feral growl. "Shepard?!" She did this! Shepard was involved! That bloody scrawny girl ruined everything! She took Eliza away from her! Miranda's eyes glowed bright blue as her biotics manifested. She had never felt this much power all at once before and subconsciously knew that something was wrong, but Shepard was here. She was going to pay for killing Eliza. Her whole body began to cover itself in biotics.
"Miri, no!"
Miranda snarled out as she was consumed by rage and the Minagen X3 drug. Wrenching her hands away from the two figures, Miranda tried to focus on her target. Her vision was cloudy, but it didn't matter. Miranda saw the red hair before her, and that was all she needed. She rose her hands up, allowing the dark energy to form and pulsate in her hands before rushing it at Shepard.
A deafening explosion sounded as the Normandy rattled from the attack. The Med-Bay's lights dimmed as EDI's voice began to repeat the alarm: two high pitched notes repeated quickly before EDI's warning sounded in between:
Warning. Damage in Medical Bay. Warning.
The red warning lights traipsed across the frigate ship, but inside the Medical Bay, it was completely engulfed by the overpowering, glowing blue lights.
Author's Note: Well I hoped you enjoyed this chapter! I'm hoping to work on the next soon, as we will get to see Eliza's viewpoint of the whole ordeal regarding not only Miranda's current situation, but her own flashbacks as to what led to her taking upon the persona of Jane Shepard. My time is a bit unstable lately, but I am hoping to at least update once a month. That being said, please give me some feedback on what you thought of the chapter and/or the story thus far. I'm still new to this whole thing and welcome any constructive criticism that can better my writing, delivery of the story, pace, character development, and any other aspects that you find I need to improve on.
I also want to make it aware that I updated Chapter 2 (We Might As Well Be Strangers) of this story. I just added a scene with Shepard and Jacob in the beginning of it; just Shepard's own musings on life. I also added some more details to a few scenes for Chapters 3, 5, and 7. Let me know what you think of all the additions.
One final note, I changed the rating of the story to M, for the language and suggestive themes. So I apologize if that offends you and that you need to reset your alerts.
Once again, thank you for your time and support!
Until next time!
Peace!
Phantom452