The Shepard
Chapter 10: The Calm Before the Storm
Disclaimer: I don't own Mass Effect. The characters are all happy and having fun. So this must mean very terrible things are about to happen. Or at least game-changing things. But for now, enjoy the calm before the storm.
ooo
"It's a shop," Traynor looked up in surprise as a neon sign with a picture of a person drinking alcohol and then brushing their teeth glowed animatedly above them. "Why is this a shop?"
The girls entered the high end store. Sitting on a pedestal was the toothbrush Traynor wanted. "Better grab that, Traynor, it looks like it's the last one," Shepard chuckled. "Also grab anything we might need for drinks later. I'm on the hunt for something special."
"Are you buying?" She asked.
"Yeah," Shepard answered, sifting through the shelves, looking for one bottle inparticular. "Try not to spend all of my money."
"Alright, then. I know just what we need."
ooo
They left, bags in hand, and stood in the center of the Silversun strip trying to figure out where to go next. "I say we drop these bags off and head down to the presidium and get some grub." Shepard suggested as they headed back to her apartment.
"I don't eat, so my input in this situation wouldn't be the best." EDI's disguise had fooled people, though they seemed to stare at her choice of fashion.
"We could always buy you something more fashionable," Traynor laughed.
Shepard opened the door and Ashley was standing by the window. Shepard set down her bags on the counter. "Ashe! They finally cut you loose?" She walked over to her, shaking her hand.
"Barely. Bakara is making arrangements in her new quarters which includes creating a space for Mordin. Her body guard, the quiet one, seems restless. She didn't say anything the whole time Tevos and Valern were doing most of the talking. Bakara is holding her own, though. I'm already enjoying her more than the other councilors."
"Up for a little girl time out on the town? We were going to get something to eat and do some shopping." Shepard leaned back on the counter.
"You? Shopping? That's not something I thought I'd hear," Ashley looked at her in shock.
"I've done plenty of shopping," Shepard waved the comment away.
"Yeah, for guns, toy ships, and fish," Liara laughed.
"Or that Hanar porn magazine you had laying around," Ashley teased.
"Hey, I bought that to complete a complex cultural library. Saving the galaxy just got in the way of finishing that library." Shepard scoffed.
"Hanar porn?" Norse poked his head from the balcony. "This one did not know you viewed its species this way."
"I got it because I was trying to buy all the literature I came across when I was with Cerberus. I didn't even pay attention to what I was buying half the time. I just wanted to fill up all my extra space. I didn't know what it was until I got back. Then I tossed it in the trash. And apparently it's been circulating the Normandy ever since." Shepard raised an eyebrow at Ashley.
"I had seen that magazine around, come to think of it. I always assumed it belonged to..." Traynor trailed off, trying hard not to look at Liara.
"Why? Because of the head tentacles?" Liara feigned hurt.
"So you are calling them tentacles. Joker will be pleased to hear this." EDI quipped.
"Alright, enough guys, let's save some chat for dinner. You in, Ashe?" Shepard asked, breaking it up.
"Of course. I need a nice night off and there's no one better to spend it with."
"Can this one attend?" Norse asked hopefully.
"It is supposed to be a girl's night," Shepard looked up at the big, pink jellyfish. "Would you guys be okay with that?"
"I've never supped with a Hanar. Oh sure. As long as you don't mind shopping!" Ashley agreed.
"This one does enjoy to browse through the wares of others." Norse made his way down with speed that surprised the commander.
"Well, ladies, let's go!" Shepard started walking out the door.
"Now hold on," Liara grabbed her arm. "If we're going to make this a true girl's night, you can't go out in your usual casual wear. you should dress up." She smirked.
"You just want to see me in that tight dress."
"That might be part of it."
"Oh barf," Ashley pretend gagged, "you two can't be like this the whole night. But I do agree. Let's get dressed up!"
"What are we going to do about EDI?" Traynor asked.
"I am fine in what I'm in." EDI offered.
"This one will put a bowtie on for the occassion." Norse offered.
ooo
In the end, sushi had been their decision. Shepard conciously steered the group away from the more breakable restaurants. It was nice, just enjoying each other's company outside of the Normandy. Norse turned out to be quite the entertainer.
"So you've dated an Asari?" Shepard was still laughing from a previous joke.
"This one has had a long life full of love and loss. That does not bring it down. There are plenty of fish in the sea as the humans say. This one eats fish, but understands the meaning. Blasto isn't the only one with a tentacle in every port. Is this one's humor apparent?"
"Very apparent," Traynor laughed, "I didn't know you were such a lover."
"This one does not wish to brag about its many accomplishments." Norse said modestly. Although in their near monotone, it was hard to tell.
"So Ashe, are you going to join us for the meet and greet?" Shepard asked once Norse's conversation had died down.
"I doubt it. A councilor's job is never done." She groaned.
"You know, you don't have to do this if you don't want to anymore." Shepard offered.
Ashley sat thoughtfully. "I've considered it over and over, but after all the issues we had with the council, I feel like I'm a reasonable voice here and one that won't want until the reapers are on our doorstep before doing anything. I want to see how things are handled with Bakara before making any final decisions. This is a big deal for my family, so I don't want to act rashly." She looked at the bottom of her empty glass. "Never thought I'd be doing this as a kid."
Shepard nodded. "That's understandable." She downed her glass. "Another round on me!" An asari bartender stepped by and picked up their used glasses, taking note of their order and clearing away empty sushi plates.
Liara was still sipping a fruity mixed drink. "I don't think any of us expected to be where we are today. I thought I'd be an archeologist surveying the remains of the Protheans, aiding civilization in my own way and be in solitude for most of my life. And yet," she placed her hand on Shepard's, "here I am; meeting a live Prothean and in love."
"I always thought Jeff and I would be at odds with each other." EDI mused. "I guess I just have a way with humans."
"You two always did fight like an old married couple." Shepard laughed. "Speaking of which..." She turned to Liara. "We decided to go ahead and have our wedding while we're on the citadel."
"Oh that's great!" Traynor clapped her hands. "I'll, of course, be up to mixing the drinks."
"The important question now is who will be your bride's maid and best man." EDI looked at the two of them. "And of course, I'm more than up for the task."
"About time you two," Ashley raised her glass. "That's fantastic! I actually really like weddings. I remember helping my sister with hers. We definitely need to have some nice flowers, blues and yellows. Can you get decent flowers on the Citadel?"
"This one is happy for the two of you."
"This is wonderful news." EDI smiled at them. "The important question now is who will be your bride's maid and best man." EDI looked at the two of them. "And of course, I'm more than up for the task."
"EDI, I didn't know you'd care," Shepard laughed as the food arrived. Norse had ordered the most, some of it still partially alive.
"Of course. Most girls would love the chance, I assume."
"I don't know about Liara, but I think all of your should be our best men, women, and everything in between." Shepard suggested.
Liara laughed, "That will make for a lot of speeches, but I agree. I couldn't see it being any other way."
"This one has always wanted to give a speech at a wedding." Norse mused, shoving sushi in his odd mouth. The others looking on curiously as he ate.
"Well, I'm glad we could make that dream come true," Shepard said, sounding nauseous at the sight.
Liara kissed Shepard, distracting her from the sight, "I'm so glad we're doing this. Having a ceremony and everything."
"We should go buy our dresses tonight!" Ashley clapped.
"Well, I guess I do need to wear something aside from this old thing." Shepard motioned to her N7 dress.
ooo
Shepard browsed through the dresses. She had never been a big clothing shopper growing up. Being in space, she either had her clothes delivered through the extranet or they were alliance issued. Even during her time with Cerberus, all her clothing had come from their organization, sans the dress that Kasumi had bought for her. "Hey, Ashe, I need your help!" She called over the racks of dresses. Ashley had insisted Liara and Shepard shop separately so their dresses would be a surprise. Traynor and EDI were assisting her. Norse was further down the line, looking through the dresses in fascination.
"This one has never worn clothes. What sort of dresses would it wear for the occasion?" Norse asked sincerely.
"Well, Norse, the guys usually wear suits, but if you want a dress, we'll make you the prettiest jellyfish out there." Ashley offered as she rounded the corner.
"Perhaps this one will go look elsewhere before making a decision." Norse wondered off to the men's formalwear.
"Now what did you need help with?" Ashley asked, amused.
Shepard pulled out a hideous dress. "All of these look the same to me. Small differences in the same design and all of them are not my style." She put the dress back, a look of disgust on her face.
"That's because you're in the ugly, poofy dress section." Ashley steered her to a more simple dress section. They were all sorts of gorgeous colors.
"Now these are dresses I can get behind. Are these appropriate for a wedding?" She asked, looking at the reds.
"Sure, they're nice, formal, and expensive. Just find some you like and I'll let you know if it looks ridiculous or not." Ashley offered, taking a seat.
"Okay," Shepard sighed, "sounds simple enough." She picked out several red and black dresses and took them to the fitting room. She stepped out wearing the first.
"Nope," Ashley thumbed it down.
"You didn't even give it a chance!"
"Didn't have to. It's that bad."
"Fine! But you get to put it up." Shepard flung the dress at her. She was still wearing her camo pants and an undershirt under the dress. Ashley rolled her eyes at that.
Ashley disapproved of all of Shepard's dress choices. "Now what am I supposed to do?" She asked, glaring at the former lieutenant.
"Find more." Ashley motioned to the rack.
"I don't like trying on clothes."
"No one does."
"This one has found a nice tie." Norse strolled back, black tie wrapped around his middle.
"That's very handsome," Shepard said, annoyed at the dress selection.
"Are you okay?" He asked.
"Fine. Id be more okay if I didn't have to look through all of these dresses."
Norse considered the racks and then pulled out a green dress that matched Shepard's eyes. It had thin straps and a simple design that grew more complex and flowing to the bottom. "This one likes this dress."
"That's gorgeous!" Shepard took it, looking it over.
"It looks good on the hanger, but we have to see it on. Try it on!" Ashley shooed Shepard into the dressing room. "Good catch there, Norse."
"When working with architecture, the designs are very important. It used this knowledge to pick out its tie and the dress. Oh, but this one doesn't mean to sound like it is bragging." Norse walked over to the couch Ashley was lounging on. Shepard walked out from the fitting room and both Ashley and Norse gasped.
"So? What do you think?" Shepard asked.
"If you weren't taken and I wasn't into dudes, I'd sweep you up myself. You look damn fine, sir." Ashley stood. "Give a twirl." Shepard groaned in protest, but complied anyway.
"Norse, you picked a real winner. Thank you." Shepard smiled, taking the dress off gently. "I'll take it."
"This one was happy to help," he said, sounding very happy in spite of his monotone.
ooo
Shepard woke early. She quietly untangled herself from the bed sheets, making sure not to disturb Liara. She quietly exited the room and noticed that everyone was passed out on random couches and fold out beds. Garrus and Tali had taken the other upstairs bedroom. Downstairs, Shepard noticed EDI bustling about in the third bedroom. She assumed Joker was still asleep. She quietly slipped out the door and walked to transit, requesting a shuttle to the presidium.
Once there, she stepped out and grabbed a cup of coffee from an all-night stand. Aside from a few stands still open, the presidium was nearly empty. The night sky slowly fading into the day lit sky, giving people some sense of day and night while aboard the station, or rather those fortunate enough to stay near the presidium.
She sipped her coffee and tried to see if she could find where the crucible had attached to the Citadel. She had flashbacks to that day, having her body controlled, Anderson, the Illusive Man, and the ghostly image that had told her she was to decide the fate of the galaxy. She held her head in her hands, waiting for the flashbacks to pass. She sighed, feeling tired.
"Shepard?" She heard a voice behind her. She turned and saw a Volus standing in front of her.
"Yes?" She asked.
"I knew it was you. I heard you were giving a speech and I had to come here. You're my hero. My family wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you."
Shepard smiled. "Thank you, sir. I was doing my duty and I'm glad that there will be no more lives lost due to the Reapers."
"You're so modest." He pulled out a poster that had her picture on it. "Could you sign this for me?"
"Hmm?" She considered it, not used to being asked for an autograph. At least it was better than the screeching fans trying to get into her party. "Sure. Do you have a pen?"
"I do!" He handed it to her and she signed. He took the poster back eagerly when she finished. "I can't wait for your speech!" He ran off. Shepard took another sip from her coffee. She wondered how many more people like that would be at the speech. She was used to boosting moral for troops, but speaking to a crowd would be something decidedly different.
As she finished her coffee, her communicator started ringing. "Hello?"
"I didn't even notice you leave this morning. Where did you go?" Liara asked, her voice still thick with sleep.
"I grabbed a coffee on the presidium." Shepard said, tossing her empty cup into a trash can.
"What's wrong?" she asked, being perceptive as usual.
"I'm just thinking about everything that happened with the crucible and enjoying the empty streets before the venders set up for the day."
"Want me to come down there with you?" She asked, concerned.
"Oh, no, I'm heading back anyway. I should probably eat something today." Shepard laughed.
"Okay, then. I'll see you when you get back." Liara cut the communications. Shepard smiled. It was weird being back on the citadel, but it was nice knowing that no matter how lonely or sad she felt, there was someone there that cared about her unconditionally.
ooo
When Shepard arrived back at her apartment, the smell of freshly cooked eggs and bacon met her nose. It smelled divine. And familiar. "Vega?" She asked as she stepped inside.
"The one and only. Seems my cooking left a good impression." He flipped the egg he was cooking onto a plate. "Want some?"
"Of course. Best eggs in the galaxy." She took the plate and began to eat hungrily. Around her, the others were absorbed in their plates. Save Javik and EDI who were absent from the table.
"You flatter me, Lola." He fixed a plate for himself and took a seat beside Steven, who seemed to be much happier than he had been in awhile.
"How's the training going?" She asked.
"Going well. I'm finishing up my last regiments and then I get to be in the big leagues like you. I was given leave so I could come up to the Citadel and visit with you guys. How about you guys? Esteban told me that you've been on quite the adventure lately."
"That's not the half of it." Shepard sighed.
"Noticed EDI's around. What's that about? I thought synthetics were wiped?" He asked, shoveling down the rest of his food.
"Synthetics aren't as 'wiped' as we had thought apparently." Shepard rubbed her forehead.
Liara noticed and took control of the conversation, explaining what they knew. The doorbell sounded as she talked. "Want me to get that?" She asked.
"I better see who it is." Shepard excused herself from the table and run to the door. When she opened it, she saw a familiar Batarian face. "Bray?" She asked, extremely confused.
"Shepard, we need to talk. In private." He said. Behind her, curious heads were trying to see what was going on.
"A Batarian?" Garrus whispered.
"Is he going to rob us?" Ashley whispered to Vega.
"We can hear you. Sure, upstairs there's a private area." She led him up the stairs, glaring at her crew.
"I see opinions on Batarians haven't changed much out here."
"Have they changed back on Omega?" She asked, leading him into her bedroom and closing the door.
"Marginally. The Talons are admittedly doing a great job. Anyway, I didn't come here to catch up, much as I respect you. Aria sent me here."
"Aria?" Shepard raised an eyebrow. There was a name she hadn't heard in quite some time. "Why didn't she just message me?"
"Privacy. An email can be traced. A Batarian tourist going to the Citadel's celebrations not as much."
"What's so top secret that Aria would take all these untraceable precautions?" Shepard asked, confused. She crossed her arms and leaned against the doorway to the armory.
Bray leaned close to her and whispered, "Someone commissioned the Omega 4 Relay to be repaired."
"What?" Shepard stood straight, leaning forward, her eyes widened. "Who? Why?"
"Calm down," Bray held up his hands so she'd back down. "We don't know who did this. Someone with a lot of money or power because the operation is covert. With everything going on as far as repairs and after war recovery, we admittedly haven't paid the relay much mind. We were too focused on getting our own fixed. It's a small operation, just a few salarians from what we've observed, and they've been quietly working on this for some time. Not sure how long. We just noticed them. The relay is nearly finished. Damn if those bastards aren't fast workers. Guess it comes with a short lifespan."
Why would anyone want the relay working? There's a death trap on the other side, probably hundreds of dead collectors or derelict collector ships, and a destroyed collector base. And a black hole. Without Reaper tech, it's impossible to pass through safely." Shepard wracked her brain to attempt to find answers for why anyone would need the relay.
Bray shrugged. "Aria hasn't gotten anything yet. Hasn't figured out a good angle for approaching them. The only reason we even noticed them was because they shot down a ship that got too close to the relay. Probably some dumb ass trying to get a thrill. Aria thought you should know about that. Not even the shadow broker has knowledge on this."
"How do you know?" Shepard asked.
"Simple questions. The shadow broker has been a much more honest person in the past few years, especially after the war. My guess is the torch was passed to a new shadow broker. Nice change of pace. Anyway, we'd like to make sure this information doesn't get out. Either someone with too many credits is just doing this because rich bastards can do what they want, or someone out there has something to gain from whatever the collectors left behind."
Shepard stood silent for a moment. "Thank you for informing me."
Bray nodded. "I'll be sure to bring you any more information that I find. There's nothing to go on aside from speculation at this point. Those Salarians are armed and after the war, Aria doesn't want to expend any troops unnecessarily, so we're just waiting it out until we know what sort of fire power we're dealing with here." He stepped out of the room. "Take care, Shepard."
He left and Shepard sat on the bed, trying to process what she'd just heard.
ooo
"Shepard!" Tali waved as the commander finally left her bedroom. "What'd that Batarian want?"
"His name's Bray. He's one of Aria's men." Shepard took a seat on one of the downstairs couches across from Tali and Traynor. EDI hovered behind them and Liara sat beside Shepard.
"Aria? Why is she contacting you?" Garrus walked over, taking a seat.
Shepard shook her head. "Someone commissioned some Salarians to repair the Omega 4 Relay."
"Are you serious?" Joker shouted, coming over. "Do they not know what a death trap this thing is?"
Kasumi appeared in the room. "Didn't we blow anything worth the trouble up while we were there? Now it's just a black hole and a ship graveyard."
"I don't think anyone would go through the trouble of repairing this relay in secrecy for some credits." Shepard stared out the window behind Tali. "Whatever they are doing it for is worth it to them. Just another thing to report to the council."
"The council is going to love you," Ashley groaned. "You don't think this means the return of the collectors, do you?"
EDI shook her head, "No. The collectors, while at one point organic, were just like the reapers at the time of the reaper's destruction."
"Well there goes that lead," Tali shook her head with a sigh.
"Anyone else have any news to share? I already have quite a list for the council. I'd like to get everything finished up in advance before I have a thousand questions thrown my way," Shepard said tersely.
Everyone looked expectantly around, but thankfully nothing happened. "So what now?" Liara asked, looking to Shepard expectantly.
"Right now I need a drink," she admitted. "and then I think we should take time to digest this information. I'll be presenting it at the end of the week. No sense raising alarms early."
"I have just the thing." Traynor made her way over to the bar.
There was a knock at the door. "I swear, if that's another batarian with alarming news..." Shepard hissed through gritted teeth.
"Who you calling a batarian?" Bailey strode to the door with a smile.
"Bailey!" Shepard grinned, standing up and grabbing his hand, pulling him into a friendly hug. "I see you're off clean up duty."
"Yep. I never thought I'd say this, but I miss the old desk job. Especially with the celebrations, they wanted someone familiar with the procedures. And I got a raise. This time, I took the family with me." He smiled.
"It's good to see you," she said as Traynor brought out a tray of drinks.
"Stressful morning?"
"I brought some for everyone. This'll do the trick, trust me."
"You have no idea." Shepard chugged one of the glasses and grabbed another. "Want one?"
"I have a feeling with the festivities in full force today, I'll be needing a little something." He took one from the tray.
"Isn't it a bit early for everyone to be drinking?" Liara asked, considering a glass.
Traynor shrugged. "We're on a break. Might as well live it up."
"Not sure I'd classify day drinking as living it up." Kasumi chuckled, appearing beside them and grabbing a glass.
"Where did you even come from? I never got to ask you last night." Shepard downed her drink and reached for another. Traynor left to go mix more.
"There are a lot of people here for the 'grand re-opening'," she used air quotes, "and many of those people I've had my eye on for sometime. I'm taking a stock of who is here and possible passwords." She eyed Bailey. "Strictly so I can tell them that they should be more careful."
Bailey waved her away. "Strictly off the record, I'm not going to turn you in. Not after everything you did with Shepard here. Just don't let me catch you."
"They never do," Kasumi smiled, walking away and disappearing.
"So, you going to enjoy any of the festivities, aside from your lovely speech?" Bailey asked as he finished his glass.
Shepard remained silent as she drained her second. "Not really. I just want a nice, calm break until I have to deal with the council."
Bailey winced. "I feel your pain. Well, I better head back to my post. I had to stop by on my way over."
"Always good to see you, Bailey," Shepard smiled, raising another glass. Liara gave her a worried look.
Bailey waved and left as Traynor returned with another tray. "Of course everyone leaves as I finish this. Ungrateful, the lot of you." She grabbed a glass and took it like a shot.
"Shepard, this can't mix well with that coffee you had." Liara cautioned.
She looked down at her third glass and chugged it. "Fine, three will be my limit." She stood fast and wobbled slightly as she felt light headed. "What did you put in that?"
"It's only slightly less alcoholic than a pyjak." Traynor considered her glass. "By a very insignificant percentage."
"Make some of that tonight." Shepard pointed to the glasses and followed Liara out of the room.
"Shepard, are you okay? I'm really worried about you." Liara led her out of the apartment.
She sighed, her breath reaking of the many different alcohols Traynor had used. "I'm fine, really. I just have more questions than answers right now and my mind is pondering possibilities that I don't want to think about."
Liara's look softened. "Shepard..."
She turned and buried her face into Liara's embrace. "What if everything is adding up to the reapers not actually being gone? What if this all means another galaxy shattering war?"
Liara hugged her back. "I can't give you an answer with any certainty, but whatever happens, we can get through it."
The door slid open and Traynor stuck her head out, followed by Garrus and Tali. "You okay, Shepard?" Garrus asked.
"We have supported you through hell and high water. Whatever happens, we'll persevere." Liara encouraged.
"Worried about all of these mysteries?" Tali asked.
"Yeah, and my wandering mind isn't helping matters."
"You know, a few more tequilla shots will fix that." Liara shot Traynor a dirty look. "Oh come on, you know I'm kidding. If you ever need a mass effect generating toothbrush, I'm your girl."
Shepard shook her head with a small smile. "I'm glad I have you guys backing me up."
ooo
She and Vega had grabbed lunch together, swapping stories from their N7 training. Afterward, she and Garrus practiced their shooting skills together, making friendly competition. She finished the night with a romantic getaway with Liara. It was nice to relax with good company, though she knew she could never enjoy a life like that. She would grow restless and miss the gentle and unnoticeable until it was absent vibrations of a ship beneath her feet.
ooo
The day of the speech arrived sooner than Shepard would have liked. She loved giving pep talks to rally troops together during difficult times, but speaking before a crowd of citizens that viewed her as a celebrity was something quite different. She and the others were in a holding room inside, waiting for their volus informant to lead them out.
The door opened, but instead of a volus, a slender figure in white made her way into the room. "Miranda!" Shepard grinned, shaking her hand with firm enthusiasm.
Miranda grinned at the gathered party, Garrus and Tali nodding in recognition. "I made it here as soon as I could. So what's this I hear about a wedding?"
"Ah, so you did get the invite. You're a bit early for it, though. Liara and I aren't tying the knot until after all this madness calms down." Shepard leaned back against the window that overlooked the presidium's gardens and the gathered crowd.
"Of course. Is that all for you?" Miranda asked, observing the unruly crowd below.
"It could also be for you if you'd like to say a few words," Shepard offered.
"No thanks. I'd rather clean a pyjak's cage." She laughed.
"So what have you been up to these past few years?" Shepard asked as Miranda took a seat on one of the beds in the room.
"Well, after Hackett had asked me how you could survive Earth, I've been working odd jobs here and there, all medical related. It seems reanimating you is quite the resume booster. Most places want me to duplicate your results for a fraction of the credits which, especially with the mass relays being in various states on construction over the years, is impossible. The data for the Lazarus project died with Cerberus. Though Cronos didn't..." she trailed off, taking a distasteful glance at the crowd as the shouts intensified as someone took the stage. "Looks like it's about time for you to make your appearance."
Shepard glanced out the window and scrunched her nose in distaste. "We should do lunch after this. Talk more about Cronos and what you might be thinking of doing."
"Sounds good to me. I've been needing to catch up with you. Timing was never my strong point. Good luck fighting that crowd." Miranda waved and left as a Volus walked in.
"Alright guys, it's time!" He motioned for them to follow him.
"So, everyone know what they're going to say?" Shepard asked, feeling oddly nervous.
"Oh something about calibrations." Garrus joked.
Tali shoved him. "I just hope I can represent my people with dignity."
"So long as you don't have alcohol, I'm sure you'll be fine," Joker laughed.
"How did I go from being alone at a dig site to having to face a crowd of thousands?" Liara shook her head.
"How did I go from a great race of people to having to face a crowd of primitives?"
"Javik!"
"It was a joke, Commander."
ooo
Shepard stood, eyes lighting on individual faces in the crowd; faces indistinguishable from one to the next. She had just been introduced and was waiting for the cheering to die down before she began her speech. The council would owe her for this. She saw them sitting off to the side, body guards surrounding them. Bakara gave her a nod and Ashley waved, the others waited expectantly.
"From the beginning, the first beacon on Eden Prime, I knew something wasn't right and I worked day and night to find out why that was. I wasn't supported by many in this endeavor, but I hold no ill will regarding this. It can be hard to acknowledge that everything you know will be in danger from a threat you cannot see.
From Saren and the geth to the collectors to Cerberus and the Reapers, I have faced adversity and have not always taken the popular route, but I did what was necessary to ensure the safety of all that stand before me today and those out among the stars that couldn't be here." She paused, taking note of a video camera that was floating around her. She saw Allers off to the side giving her a thumb up.
"Saren was the first case of indoctrination as he aided Sovereign to bring the reapers here through the Citadel. We stopped him and his followers and saved the council at great cost. I then lost my life when the collectors emerged in council space and attacked the Normandy SR1. Cerberus revived me and I worked with them as a means to an end that we both mutually wanted. The collectors gathered humans from all over the terminus to create a new reaper in the image of a human as they had done with other species in cycles before us for reasons unknown. We took down the collector base in a suicide mission and then stopped the reapers from arriving early once more, again, at great cost to the proud Batarian race.
I was grounded when the reapers attacked Earth. I regretfully made my way off planet to do the impossible and unite our galaxy to fight and take back our home. We worked together and accomplished the impossible. The genophage was cured, the rachni joined our side, the geth and the quarians became allies, the Quarians have their homeworld back, and together, our ships were able to hold off the Reapers until the crucible could finish the job. We all accomplished amazing things to save our galaxy. I'm just one small part of that wonderful whole." The crowd applauded wildly, shouting and jumping up and down.
"It was a tough fight. I lost many friends and loved ones as I'm sure all of you have as well. Loss is never easy, even when it is for the greater good. Even in my darkest moments when I had the catalyst slip through my fingers, I never gave up. It was hard and without my crew backing me, I may not have been able to make it through. It's thanks to them raising me up along the way and fighting just as hard that we were able to stop the reaper threat." She stepped back and held her hand out to her crew that stepped on stage. "And I believe that they would like to say a few words to you now."
She stood as the crowd quieted and her crew stepped forward to give their speeches. She stepped behind the stage, out of view. EDI and Chakwas were back there. "Well done, Commander," Chakwas applauded.
"Now I get to rest until the Q&A at the end." Shepard took a seat beside Chakwas. "So how'd I do?"
"Judging from that applause, I'd say you did very well," Chakwas laughed jovially. "You've always been good at finding a way to raise moral."
"I agree, Shepard. You did well." EDI smiled reassuringly.
"I'm just glad that's over." She sighed with relief. She waited, chatting with the two about the crew's speeches, until Liara motioned for her to return to the stage. "Here goes nothing."
"Good luck. You're going to need it," Chakwas said encouragingly.
"And now, it's time to ask Shepard and her crew questions! We can only take a couple and any ridiculous questions will be disregarded." The Volus moderator looked for waving hands. He released a drone into the air. It flew over the crowd and then shone a light on an Elcor female. "What's your question?"
"Sincerely, there have been rumors that you are getting married. With interest, will the wedding be open to the public?"
Shepard turned to her crew. "How did they know that?"
"You did go to a shop that sold wedding dresses." Traynor pointed out.
"Only two days ago!"
"That's more than enough time, you know," Tali mentioned.
Shepard turned to the podium. "Yes, Liara and I became engaged shortly after I was released from the medical ward following the end of the war. We have decided to marry while we're on the citadel; however, it will be a private ceremony with our close friends and family.
"Disappointed understanding, I see. Congratulations you two."
"Next question!"
ooo
"Is that a real Prothean? Whenever I stop thinking of everyone as primitives, someone comes along to prove me wrong." Javik sneered as they walked back into the apartment.
"How did they even pick who asked questions? I swear if it wasn't gossip, it was stupidity." Traynor flopped onto the couch, burying her face into a pillow.
"That one Salarian seemed extremely interested in my enviro suit. HE kept asking all these questions." Tali motioned to the suit she always wore.
"One hundred credits says he was asking for more perverted reasons," Garrus chuckled as Tali grew flustered.
"I'm just glad that's over. Now all I have to worry about is reporting to the council." Shepard sat down on one of the kitchen's barstools and messaged Miranda using her omnitool.
"Ah yes 'EDI'. We have dismissed her claims." Traynor air quoted.
Shepard's omnitool alerted her to an incoming message. "Hmm, looks like I'm meeting Miranda for lunch in the Zakera wards. Anyone want to tag along?"
"I will!" Tali volunteered. "Hopefully this place will have dextro friendly food."
"If not, we can always find somewhere that is. Anyone else? No? Well, let's go."
ooo
Shepard and Tali arrived via a cab and made their way to the restaurant Miranda had recommended. "Do you see Zoell's Place anywhere?" Shepard asked, trying to locate an Avina unit, if they were even still functioning.
"I think that's it." Tali pointed weakly to a gigantic building in the center of everything. The line outside wrapped around the building and extended nearly to the stairs for the next level.
Shepard sighed, "Miranda sure knows how to pick them. I'm not waiting in that line. By the time we'd get up there, they'd be serving breakfast."
Before they could open communications with her, Miranda popped out of the doors and waved them over. "I've already got us a table. I have connections with the owner." The two followed her inside. The restaurant wasn't that fancy, but the thing that caught Shepard's eye-or rather ear-was how quiet everything was inside. The tables were set aside in glass rooms designed to keep conversations private.
"Ah, now the line makes sense," Shepard mused.
"Trust me, people don't really come here for the food. It's mostly dextro with Zoell being a turian. People pay for the privacy. No cameras, no sound, no records kept, no chance of anyone walking in on you. It was built during the war when there was a need for such places and flourishes today where there's still a need for such places." Miranda guided them toward their room at the back.
"Did you say dextro food?" Tali asked hopefully.
"The best you can get outside of a dextro homeworld or base." Miranda grinned.
"I'm going to grab a menu!" Tali rushed off with a bounce in her step.
"Tali wanted to come along. I'm glad she did." Shepard commented as they took their seats, the door sealing behind them.
"I had wondered if the crew was going to come along. I'm glad it's just the three of us. I'd rather explain myself to a smaller crowd." Miranda watched as Tali chatted animatedly to one of the waiters.
"Straight to business, huh?"
"You know me." Miranda laughed as Tali rejoined them.
"They have dextro cheeses! With herbs!" Shepard didn't know if she'd ever seen the Quarian so excited.
"So Miranda, since you want to get straight to business, what were you insinuating earlier?"
"All my records, all the research I and others before and after me have done, it's all on Cerberus' base. The Cronos Station has all records. I've kept tabs on it. Save for corpses, not a single soul has been on that station since the war ended. The star of the area is reaching the end of its life, so it would be beneficial to make a move sooner rather than later." Miranda paused as the waiter arrived with Tali's food and drinks for everyone. As soon as he left, Miranda leaned forward again. "I can use those records to help. There's no sense in letting them rot. Too many people died for us to not consider at least making good out of the situation."
"That's still Cerberus intel. I'm not sure how people would feel knowing that intel was being used, even for good." Tali spoke around a mouthful of food.
"Is the Cerberus base even safe? How do we know the group isn't rogue?" Shepard asked.
"We don't, but considering their leader was indoctrinated and tried to stop you from saving the galaxy, I don't think too many are keen on keeping the illusive man's ideals alive. There's also the credits. The illusive man never knew being unable to afford something while heading the organization. Even with the cost of you, there is still a sizeable portion of credits there which can be used as a sizable donation to research and medicine."
"Who are you wanting to bring back to life?" Shepard asked.
"If I don't retrieve the information and credits, someone else will if given enough time. I don't want that to fall in the wrong hands or to someone that wants to charge an unreasonable amount of money for their release."
"Who do you want to bring back, Miranda?" Shepard asked again.
Miranda sighed. "There are so many that died during the war.
Miranda sighed. "There are so many that died during the war. So many that deserve another chance. Mothers and children. Fathers and friends. And sisters. It's probably been too long, but I can't be sure unless I have those documents."
"Miranda-"
"And you should know by now that I'm going with or without your blessing and help. I just wanted to let you know my reasons."
Shepard shook her head. That information could be extremely useful and there really was no sense in throwing it away, especially since scientists unrelated to the terrorist attacks had worked on it. "Alright, you have our support. Just promise me that if things get overwhelming this time that you'll let us know. I don't want a repeat of Horizon."
Miranda let out a laugh. "Of course. I've learned my lesson. And it might be nice to see you every once in awhile." Miranda shifted in her seat. "Well, that's all I really had to say for now. I guess I should go ahead and make my way-"
"Oh no," Shepard had a hold on her arm.
"Shepard." Miranda raised an eyebrow at her.
"You're going to relax and enjoy some downtime. You said we should catch up and we should. Although maybe we should go to a different restaurant once Tali finishes. One with food for humans."
"Don't knock it until you try it," Tali said. She had remained unusually quiet throughout the discourse, distracted by all the foods around her.
"You're right. I get so focused sometimes. How about we hit the Silversun Strip tonight?" Miranda suggested mischievously.
"Oh I love gambling. Mind if I tag along?" Tali asked.
"I insist on it!" Miranda laughed.
ooo
Liara leaned into Shepard as they watched the fireworks erupting above the presidium, signifying the last night of celebrations. Shepard had no idea how they were managing to create them, but they were so gorgeous that she didn't care. She hadn't seen fireworks since she was a child and her mom took her to visit Earth. As much as she loved her home planet, it never was truly the place she called home. Ever since she could remember, the view of stars dotting the space around a ship whizzing from relay to relay had been her cradle, her life. She wondered if that really was such a good environment to grow up.
"What're you thinking about?" Liara asked the unusually quiet Shepard.
"Ah, nothing. Just reliving some memories of watching fireworks on Earth. I haven't seen any since I was a kid."
"You haven't spoken much about your childhood."
"Neither have you, well, aside from your adorable sandbox archeologist digs." Shepard grinned at the memory.
"You still remember that?" Liara asked with a groan.
"Of course I do. It's my job to remember all potentially embarrassing details about you. Also the really sweet ones. And the sad times so I can comfort you."
Liara turned to face her. "You really are the best companion I could ever ask."
The two kissed as the fireworks above lit them in a variety of colors. It was moments like this that Shepard wished the rest of her life could be filled with. No more strife. No more reapers. No more worries.
ooo
End Chapter 10
Next up: Weddings and poltical meetings.