Shepard didn't have to know where Miranda was, she could feel her as she got closer to the woman she loved. Knocking on an office door she sensed Miri behind she kept her knuckles to a light rap in case Miri was talking to the Illusive Man. When she stuck her head in she found Miranda standing by the window looking deep in thought.
Miranda was indeed lost in thought. She hadn't actually contacted the Illusive Man directly yet. She had the authority to authorize a cleanup crew then inform him once the situation was under control. It was this authority she used right now as it would be best to both give herself time to think of the best way to handle the situation and to return to the Normandy for a secure connection. She almost didn't realize Shepard was in the room with her, until she felt a light, hesitant touch on the small of her back. Glancing over her shoulder she smiled as Shepard stepped into her field of vision.
"So what's the plan? Are you needed here or can Jacob handle it?" Shepard asked more firmly than intended and winced a little, "Sorry, just want to get you to the Normandy as soon as possible," she murmured.
Ordinarily Miranda would have quickly asserted that she could take care of herself, however, in this particular situation she could understand Shepard's concern. "I need to contact the Illusive Man via the secure channel as it is so Jacob will have to handle the cleanup operatives."
"Any idea what you're gonna say to him?" Shepard scoffed at herself, "Scratch that you've probably got it all..."
"No I don't." Miranda interrupted and shook her head. "I don't even fully understand it myself."
Shepard's eyes widened, that was a huge statement in itself. Miranda Lawson was actually admitting to not understanding something. Shaking herself slightly she slid her arms around Miranda's waist and rested her head on Miri's shoulder, "You will. You can figure out most things."
"Just most things?" Miranda smirked, putting her hands over Shepard's arms and leaning into the strong marine beside her, finding no small measure of comfort in the embrace.
Shepard kissed her lightly on the cheek, "Well it just wouldn't be fun if you could figure out everything now would it," she murmured softly.
Miranda shivered and found herself suddenly liking the idea of not knowing everything, not that she ever thought she truly could but Stephanie made it sound so sexy.
Shepard pressed her forehead against the side of Miri's head, "Let's go back to the Normandy, I've had enough of this place," her voice was a whisper solely for Miranda to hear even though there was no one else around.
Miranda understood what she was feeling perfectly clearly without having to rely on their connection to interpret it, "Indeed, I think we've both had more than enough of it."
"Good, cos I told Jacob and Garrus they're in charge." Shepard smirked, holding Miri a little tighter in anticipation for her response.
Miranda tried to jerk around to face Shepard with a scowl but was trapped in her arms.
"Figured if you didn't come willingly I'd drag your sexy ass outta here either over my shoulder or bridal style." Shepard chuckled, letting her light teasing flow into Miri and was rewarded with a huff and roll of the eyes.
"I'd like to see you try," Miranda scoffed at the very idea of it.
Shepard's eyes brightened and a wide smile lit up her face, she loosened her grip and stepped back, "You know the last time you told me that I punched you in the face, knocked you out cold and had you sedated."
Miranda turned to her in disbelief.
"True story, ask Jacob he carried you back to the shuttle." Shepard gave a nonchalant shrug but still grinning cheekily and backed further out of reach, "Bridal style." She winked then began to saunter away.
Miranda could practically feel the vibrations in her chest from Shepard's internal laughing though the frustrating marine refrained from outright doing so. Her first response was indignation. Until she recalled the state Shepard was in only a short time ago. She let out her pent up breath and followed after Shepard. If the teasing made her smile, and given the fact that she didn't remember the event in question, she'd let her get away with it... this once. She tried it again, however, and it was on.
Neither of them had said a word in the taxi ride to the port. Shepard letting Miranda think and Miranda figuring out the best way to handle this situation. But halfway there Shepard did reach over and intertwined their fingers in a reassuring gesture.
Miranda had glanced over to see that Shepard was still looking out the window, concentrating on driving or at least adequately pretending to. Giving Shepard's hand a gentle squeeze she noted the smile that graced the gorgeous marine's lips and decided to continue holding the offered hand.
Before entering the ship Shepard gently took Miranda by the shoulder and stopped her, "Miri,"
Miranda stopped and turned to face Shepard curiously, it was strange being called that after so long.
"Say whatever you need to say to the Illusive Man." Shepard lightly brushed her fingertips over Miranda's heart, "I know how you really feel," she offered gently, a tender smile reached her darkened eyes.
The relief that flooded Miranda was palpable even without their connection. She closed the distance between them and kissed Shepard soundly, Thank you.
Shepard really wished she wasn't wearing armour right now as she reached up and lightly ran her fingertips over Miranda's cheek, You're welcome beautiful.
Miranda stopped kissing Shepard and pulled back with a startled expression.
Shepard mentally cursed and shrank a little, her cheeks flaming with embarrassment as she should have remembered how Miranda felt about her body, "Uh... sorry I..." She was stopped by a slender finger pressed against her lips.
Miranda smiled, "You're the first person to call me that and I haven't felt like cringing," she admitted softly, leaning in again, caressing Shepard's face and lightly brushing her lips over Shepard's once more.
When Miranda pulled back Shepard was still blushing but smiled shyly, "Right then, I'm gonna clean up this mess, let me know if you need me for anything." She rapped her knuckles against her breastplate and flakes of caked blood fluttered away.
Miranda donned her usual serious face and nodded, "I'm not sure the Justicar would take kindly to meeting you like that."
Shepard sighed, "Yeah, I'd..." she frowned, looking down at herself and not finishing the 'I'd rip me to shreds to' that she'd begun to say, "better get going, this'll take me forever," she sighed in disgust and quickly made her way into the ship.
Striding confidently into the holographic communications link up to the Illusive Man, Miranda assumed her normal rigid posture and looked to him with her usual stoic expression, "We have a situation," she began calmly.
"So I see." The Illusive Man waited for her to continue, he had been keeping a very close eye on the Normandy of late and had been patiently waiting for her to make this call. He had every assurance that she would for he knew the way she worked. Miranda was not one to give half a report or alert him to something she herself wasn't fully versed in first, so he had not been worried only waiting.
Miranda had not gone straight to this meeting. Her first stop had been to her quarters where she'd locked the door and gone right to her terminal to look over her records and recent reports. It had been... enlightening, to say the least. So much had happened in the last weeks and not just what was happening between her and Shepard.
She relayed the relevant information to the Illusive Man, which summarized all the factual data they'd discovered pertaining to herself and the memory blocks put in place on Lazarus and back at the lab. Not having any concrete evidence concerning Shepard's battle with her inner beast she made no mention of it at all, nor of their connection.
The Illusive Man listened to all that Miranda said and considered all that she didn't say. He knew there was something of a more personal development occurring between Miranda and Shepard, he'd been keeping close tabs on it in fact. That Miranda said nothing of it right now could mean one of two things; she was using the blossoming relationship as a tool to keep Shepard under control or she truly was 'falling' for her project. Judging by past experience he would assume the former, however he had not gotten to where he was today by making assumptions.
"How has Shepard been dealing with this development then?" The Illusive Man casually tapped the end of his cigarette.
Miranda knew how to play this game perfectly well and flashed him a secretive smile, "She's become very concerned with my wellbeing and very supportive in assisting my recovery. Shepard insisted that Doctor Rana Thanoptis accompany us and has allowed us time to investigate the matter while she locates the subjects on Illium. It appears that when a member of her crew is faced with a personal situation she opens herself up significantly to help them through it."
The Illusive Man took a drag from his cigarette as he listened.
"She has become more compliant and easier to manage over recent weeks now she has had time to adjust to her new environment." She finished responding to his question with a nod.
"The Commander is not one to be toyed with Miranda, I trust your judgement on this matter but I advise that you be cautious in how you manage her. I shall begin an investigation into who these people are and how they've been able circumvent our security measures to ensure it does not happen again. I'm waiting for your report on the matter. Is there anything else?" He looked at her pointedly.
Miranda met his gaze unfazed by his optical implants, "No."
"Then do what you must to restore your memory but ensure Shepard remains focussed. Don't allow her concern for others to cloud her judgement." He tapped the console on the arm of his chair, ending the communication.
Miranda could only presume that he would put together a small team to investigate and hoped with everything within her that team didn't include Kai Leng. She hated that violent xenophobic man on the best of days and did not want him to learn anything personal about her that wasn't already public knowledge. The very thought of him made her shudder. Turning on her heel she strode out and instead of heading right through the lab which she usually did to avoid Jacob she went left into the armoury.
Shepard glanced up, she was almost done, "How'd it go?"
Miranda's gaze roved over the figure of the marine clad only in her skin tight, black underlay and liked what she saw immensely, "Well enough. He's putting together a team to investigate the people who did this." She tapped the side of her head.
"Good. Hope they find the bastards and let me know where to find them because I'm gonna show them exactly how effective their techniques were," Shepard growled aggressively, polishing the last piece of her armour with vigour.
Miranda strode over to her and wordlessly slid her hand across Shepard's shoulders.
Shepard sighed and turned slightly to press her cheek into Miranda's stomach, closing her eyes as she did and just breathing in Miranda's scent.
"I know you want to stop them, but right now we've got bigger concerns. We don't know how long the Justicar will be here, especially if she's hunting a particular person. You're going to have to convince her to put the fate of the galaxy over the fate of a few victims." Miranda tenderly ran her fingers through Shepard's slightly damp hair.
"Yeah. Plan on scoffing down some food then heading out to find her. Just hope I didn't burn any bridges with Khali's people seeing as I have to go to the police tracking office. Fingers crossed I can bat my eyelashes at the Asari on the desk and she'll be eager to comply with my request." Shepard smiled, snaking her arm around Miranda's waist and holding her close.
"They tend to be more interested in that swagger of yours." Miranda pointed out wryly, a touch of jealousy coming through their connection.
"And I thought it was your sexy ass they were all ogling... wait swagger? You think I swagger?" Shepard pulled back to look up at Miranda with a raised brow but still kept her arm around Miri's waist.
"You tend to swing your hips when you walk, that constitutes a swagger." Miranda clarified for the clueless woman.
Shepard's eyes sparkled, "So you've been watching my hips then have you." She swivelled around to face Miri now and took hold of the woman's sensuous hips, gently massaging them.
Miranda scowled down at Shepard and crossed her arms, but didn't pull away from her, "I have better things to do with my time."
Shepard couldn't help herself, "Like watch my ass?"
Miranda scoffed, "You wish."
"Certainly do, I know I like watching yours." Shepard's thumbs ran up under Miranda's shirt, her eyes twinkling with mischief.
"You are incorrigible Shepard," huffed Miranda though inwardly she smiled then recriminated herself as Shepard's smirk widened because she felt the inner smile.
"You like it," Shepard purred seductively. She pushed up the right side of Miranda's shirt enough to expose the pale skin of her hip and leaned in.
Miranda bit her lip to stop the gasp as Shepard's soft, moist lips took hold of her. Her right hand snapped down to that chocolate brown hair when Shepard's teeth raked across her skin quickly followed by her warm, wet tongue to soothe the scrape. Her heart raced and she could feel herself heating up quickly when Shepard slowly, tantalizingly kissed her way to her navel with one hand pushing up her shirt while the other slid around behind her and firmly massaged, it felt incredible.
Shepard lazily traced a circle around Miranda's cute little navel with her tongue before she pulled back with an impish smile, "Later beautiful?" she purred, the huskiness in her voice even more pronounced than usual.
"God yes," Miranda breathed, groaning because Shepard had stopped but also because they couldn't do this right now and especially not right here where anyone could waltz in on them. They wouldn't hear the end of it if that happened.
Shepard rose to her feet, pressing up against Miranda and kissing along her jaw to just under her ear, "You know I bought something to share with you for when you get your memory back. But it's a surprise," she whispered softly in Miranda's ear, her lips brushing against the sensitive lobe.
It sent shivers down Miranda's spine, "You know I could just search the Loft and find it myself."
"Ah but that would ruin the surprise, beautiful. Think of it as incentive for you to concentrate on beating this mental block into submission while I concentrate on the mission and getting who we need for it." Shepard finished speaking with a nibbling kiss on the soft, tender skin of Miri's ear.
Miranda moaned deep in the back of her throat so that Shepard only really felt the rumble of it and the accompanied gasp, "I think I can work with that," Miranda managed to say coherently.
"Excellent, now would you like to join me for something to eat before hitting the data feeds, give that incredible mind of yours a little sustenance to improve peak performance?" Shepard smiled into Miranda's neck, running her hands up the slender back of the perfect woman in her arms.
"That sounds like a suitable course of action, to ensure optimum working conditions." Miranda couldn't help but smile at the way Shepard had worded her request and hugged the sexy figure tighter, kissing her neck and feeling the bubbling sense of happiness and relief that was washing through Shepard and further rinsing away the horror of the day.
The Illusive Man had seen enough for the time being and clicked off the feed. Miranda was handling Shepard very well considering how rocky it had been between them initially. He brought up another video file that EDI had captured. It had been surprisingly unorthodox and unprecedented the action the AI had taken to assist Shepard, this action had also been able to record what the AI had seen.
Of particular interest to him were a particular quartet of revelations. First that the AI had been able to influence Shepard out of her frenzied state by imitating Miranda's voice. Second that Shepard's real name was Persephone Eve Calleyuss. Third that Persephone had a prior relationship with Miranda that Miranda was unaware of at this point in time. Finally that if Miranda became aware of Persephone's identity then there was the possibility of it being fatal for his top operative.
Just who was Persephone, what was that thing that possessed her when Miranda was in danger, why was Miranda's voice able to control or rather calm that possessed rage and who had programmed them both?
All these questions and more needed answering.
He tapped his console and called a suitable source to begin investigating, "I have a job for you, I think you'll like it." He smirked.
Shepard sauntered into the tracking office with her confident swagger and cool expression, she'd actually taken the time to observe how the Asari responded to her as she strode through the market place to reach the office. Miranda had been right, the Asari did seem to pay her close attention. How had she not really noticed it before? It actually made her feel rather self conscious but it was a useful tool in keeping the Asari more helpful.
At the sound of the door swishing open the overworked and underpaid officer rolled her eyes and groaned to herself. That was until she glanced over and the sexiest human woman she'd ever seen sauntered towards her. Her eyes widened a little at the state of the art black armour, the high end weapons that were clipped on magnetic strips at her hips but thankfully her hands weren't near them for the time being. This was no ordinary merc closing in on her.
"Good afternoon officer," Shepard greeted the stunned Asari with a charming smile and slight nod of her head which caused the bangs that framed the right side of her face to sway forward. Calmly she reached up and tucked them back behind her ear, noting that the Asari was watching her movements closely.
"Well look at you, what can I do for you gorgeous?" The officer beamed up at the merc.
Shepard chuckled and held out her hand over the desk for the Asari.
The Asari eagerly took it and shook hands.
"I'm Stephanie Shepard and I'm hoping you could help me with something." She knew that by omitting the 'Commander' her identity would remain hidden for the time being.
"Dara, nice to meet you Stephanie. I can certainly try to help, shoot... uh not literally I mean." The Asari looked worried for a moment.
Shepard released her hand with another chuckle, "Relax, I don't generally shoot unless I'm being shot at first. So unless you plan on shooting me with more than that gorgeous smile you're pretty safe."
Dara's cheeks darkened with a blush at the smooth talking human, "Good to know."
"This is the Tracking Office yes? I'm looking for someone I've been told you're keeping tabs on." Shepard got to business quickly.
Dara nodded and quickly brought up the search screen on her console, "Name?"
"Justicar Samara." Shepard expected a bit of resistance at that and wasn't let down.
Dara looked up with a frown, "Why are you looking for her?" Dara became a little panicked, "Has she killed someone already? That's the last thing we need," she groaned, a headache starting to form at the mere thought of it.
"She hasn't that I'm aware of. I'm on a mission I need her help with."
Dara was instantly skeptical, "You think you can just ask a Justicar to help you on a mission?" All previous inclination to help gone at the arrogance of a human to think they could just do that.
"I would say it can't hurt to ask... but given the reputation of the Justicars I think this could hurt plenty." She smirked at first but then became serious, "I may not be Asari, but I am aware of the importance and reverence accorded towards Justicars. This is not a request I'm making lightly nor is my mission an insignificant one. I'm asking you nicely for your assistance, I really don't want to have to invoke my Spectre authority."
At that Dara scoffed, "There hasn't been a human Spectre since Shepard..." As soon as she said it her eyes became saucers, "What did you say your name was again?" her voice was soft in concern.
Shepard smiled, "Stephanie Shepard, first Human Spectre, quite a list of associated names and accomplishments I'm constantly trying to avoid mentioning." She bowed her head respectfully.
"But aren't you-didn't you..." Now Dara was utterly floored.
"Die? Yes. Modern science the associated advancements in medical technology are quite something else. I'm not quite as human as I used to be, lot of cybernetics I'm told. But not cloned, memory intact and a few sweet upgrades so I'm not complaining. Just no setting off an EMP near me, I don't think I'll like that." She winked, grinning from ear to ear to put the Asari officer back at ease.
Dara actually smiled and shook her head with a slight chuckle, "I'll keep that in mind, you might shoot me." The skepticism was replaced with wonder as it sunk in that she was face to face with the Commander Shepard. "So what was it like, taking on Saren and the Geth and saving the Citadel like you did?"
The smile faded and Shepard had to fight the scowl she could feel wanting to show itself, "What kind of question is that? What was it like?" she huffed, "It was the hardest mission I've ever been on. I lost good people, friends to Saren and his fucked up..." she stopped herself with a grunt, "Look, that's a really loaded question alright. The Council's done everything in its power to bury what really happened and anything I say on it they make out to be crazy because they can't be bothered trying to comprehend the magnitude of what's coming."
Dara winced, "Alright, I'll give you that was a pretty stupid question. But I'm really curious about what you thinks coming."
Shepard considered her long and hard, gone was the friendly face of moments ago and in its place was the Commander. "Did you see any footage of Saren's flagship?"
"Oh yes, that thing was monstrous!" Dara nodded quickly.
"Did it look like any of the Geth ships?"
Dara thought about it, "Not really, no."
"That's because it wasn't Geth. Now Justicar Samara if you'd be so kind." Shepard nodded to the console.
"But if it wasn't Geth then what was it?" Dara leaned forward on her elbows.
Shepard cursed mentally, "It clearly doesn't matter since the Council have done everything in their power to smother everything about it. Justicar Samara if you please," she put a bit more force into her tone this time.
Dara nodded and quickly brought up the details, "Right, she last checked in to Precinct 4-14, you'll find it here." She showed the famous Spectre the location.
"Thank you Officer Dara, that's all I need for now." Shepard nodded gratefully, really wanting to get out of there immediately.
"You're welcome Spectre, before you go..." Dara became a bit sheepish, "I couldn't get your autograph could I?" the hopeful tone was hard to ignore.
Shepard's thoughts instantly went to a certain Conrad Verner and she cringed. "What would you like me to sign?" She rubbed her neck in resignation chanting good impression, good impression in her head.
Dara's face lit up and she looked around for something now that she was on the spot.
Shepard waited, somewhat impatiently.
Finding a blank datapad Dara held it out to Shepard eagerly.
Shepard had learned the hard way that autographs and official signatures needed to look very different. So she'd made her autograph a larger and flowing CMDR S. Shepard as that's the name everyone knew her by and it wasn't accepted as an official signature as it included her rank.
Dara bit her bottom lip to keep from squealing in excitement as Commander Shepard handed back the signed datapad, "Oh thank you, thank you, thank you! If you need anything else come by and see me!"
"Thank you Dara." Shepard nodded then turned and quickly departed the small office station. She took a deep breath and exhaled in relief when the door closed behind her. That was until someone called out her name.
"Commander Shepard? Is that you?"
Stiffening and cringing Shepard turned to find a beautiful but green skinned Asari approaching her with what looked like relief on her face. After a moment she recognized her, "Shiala!" She beamed and moved to meet her with open arms, "Wow Shiala this is a surprise!"
Shiala chuckled, "Indeed, for me as well. I'd heard you passed on." She hugged the human who'd saved her from the Thorian then spared her life on Feros and given her hope.
"Yeah, long story that one," Shepard sighed, not wanting to get into that again so soon.
"No doubt." Shiala pulled back and looked at the young human woman, taking her in closely and noting the change in her eye colour, the fresh scars. Reaching up she lightly ran her fingertips over them, "Life has not been easy since we met has it," her voice was soft, heavy with sadness.
"Hardly." Shepard rolled her eyes but smiled, she didn't mind Shiala touching her face so tenderly after their extensive melding on Feros to transfer the Cipher. This Asari knew far more about her than just about any other living being, had been in the depths of her mind and seen what lurked there, she had shared the burden of the Cipher and understood the truth of what they were to face with the Reapers. "How's Feros doing?"
At that Shiala cupped Shepard's face, her expression further saddened, "That is why I'm here. I'm advocating the colonists to Baria Frontiers."
Shepard frowned in confusion, the name not really ringing any bells right now.
Shiala withdrew her hand, "They're an exploration and medical research group. Since the infection of Thorian spores the Colonists have been suffering residual side effects."
Shepard fired up instantly, "Is it the Thorian? Did it survive our last encounter? I swear say the word and I'm there, I'll make sure it's good and..."
Shiala chuckled at the human, finding her protective concern endearing, "While I can understand your concern considering all the trouble you and your team went to in destroying it you can rest assured that the Thorian is well and truly departed from this universe."
Shepard relaxed and waited for Shiala to continue.
"But the colonists are still suffering side effects from their time under its dominion. Crippling headaches, muscle spasms, shared sensations and other symptoms. The colonists asked me to represent them and find a suitable medical group to study the effects of the spores and seek a cure." At that guilt crossed her elegant features, "I fear I failed them. I approached several groups but as you can well imagine the colonists had very little financial backing once Exo Geni pulled out. Baria Frontiers responded with what we thought was an agreeable, and certainly the cheapest proposal. However, in the fine print of the contract it appears there was a clause that allows Baria Frontiers to perform invasive procedures without prior consent of the colonists."
Shepard clenched her fists and jaws as anger coursed through her, she could feel her eyes starting to glow.
Shiala's brow rose slightly as Shepard's eyes and scars began to glow a soft red, "I've come here to try and re-negotiate the contract to put an end to this, however, the Baria Frontiers representative refuses to re-negotiate and I've hit a wall I cannot seem to surmount."
Shepard didn't need to hear more, "Point me at'em."
"I had hoped you'd help. Erinya is the representative to speak to, her office is in that building there." Shiala gestured to an office front with large windows that came complete with a sky blue skinned Asari scowling at them.
"That's her right?"
"Yes." Shiala wasn't about to comment on her rather nasty disposition at this point in time.
"I'm on it." Shepard straightened her shoulders and brought out the Commander intimidation walk.
Passing a couple of Asari outside the front of Baria Frontiers she paused as she overheard the conversation between them. One of them was clearly very unimpressed with having to deal with the pureblood bitch Erinya and the other going as far as commenting that Erinya had had pureblood kids and purebloods shouldn't be allowed to breed.
Shepard frowned, that was a bit of an extreme viewpoint, but it did brace her for the fact that if Erinya was a bitch even to her own kind then this was going to be interesting.
The atmosphere in the sparse office as Shepard entered was already hostile, Erinya was already glaring at her like she was a geth to be ripped apart. Those blue eyes were narrowed, her blue skin flushed with outrage, her entire face pinched in what appeared to be a perpetual scowl.
"I know why you're here human, I saw you speaking with that Shiala." Erinya's words were dripping with disdain and she turned her attention to the datapad in her hands, "I've got nothing to say to you."
Shepard's anger flared and it took a great deal of concentration not to allow her biotics to flare as well, she could not control the fierce glow of her cybernetics though. She had to be careful how she proceeded, she could already see herself throwing the Asari against the wall and beating the crap out of her. Whatever she attempted had to be strategic, clearly this bitch didn't like people so appealing to any sense of compassion wasn't going to work without finding out more about her, something that she valued...
"From what I understand the tests you're undertaking on the colonists are needlessly invasive and are not actually aimed at helping them recover from the Thorian Spores, which was why they came to you for help in the first place. What's the point of the tests?" Shepard's husky voice was sharp and to the point, she stood tall with her arms crossed in a posture of you're not worth my time. Mostly the posture was to keep her hands away from her guns, but Erinya didn't need to know that.
Erinya scoffed, "I don't need to explain anything to you human."
Shepard's eyes narrowed, "Perhaps I need to introduce myself. I'm Shepard, Commander Shepard, as in first human Spectre Shepard."
Erinya looked her over with disbelieving disdain.
"I worked my ass off to save that colony, I shed sweat and blood to fight off Geth, Creepers and that fucking Thorian to save those people. And now you're making their lives a living hell with your fucked up experiments. They've tried the nice approach, now you've got me to deal with," there was a definite threat in Shepard's growling tone as she shifted her position to have one hand on her hip while the other lingered beside her gun.
At the mention of Geth, Erinya's entire being darkened, "Geth, Turians, Krogans, Humans, the galaxy would a better off if none of your primitive races ever rose up out of their primordial ooze. If the Asari were the only ones to reach the stars there wouldn't have been all the wars and bloodshed your races have forced us into. Hundreds of thousands of my sisters have been massacred by your bloody and arrogant natures!" Erinya seethed furiously.
Shepard snorted and shook her head at the arrogant and blinded Asari, "Correct me if I'm wrong, Erinya, but Humans have only been in the galactic community for a little over thirty years during which time we've never involved the Asari in any disputes. In fact if it wasn't for Humans the Council and Citadel would have been lost throwing you all into chaos and destroying the peace you're currently enjoying. It was the Human fleet that turned the tide of that battle, that defeated Sovereign and mopped up the Geth."
Erinya waved her hand dismissively, "Humans, Turians, Batarians, you're all the same. Give it time and you'll be tearing each others throats out and my sisters will have to end it for you."
Shepard scoffed, "So you write off those around you for what might happen. What the hell happened to you to make you such a xenophobic bitch that even your own sisters despise?"
Erinya slammed the datapad in her hands, "You want to know! FINE! My bond mate was killed on Rannoch during the Geth uprising. My daughters were both killed on the Citadel during Saren and the Geth's attack! So don't you dare..."
Shepard cut her off, "What, that's it? You lost your partner and kids to the Geth so you hate everyone?" She shook her head and took a menacing step forward, "My father was assassinated by my girlfriends father. My mother was raped and murdered by Batarian Slavers. I had to watch my friends be raped and have slaver chips shoved into their skulls." Her tone was becoming deeper and darker as she progressed, her eyes becoming bright red murderous globes as she advanced towards Erinya.
Erinya's eyes widened and she began to retreat from the irate human.
"I had to lead a bunch of greenhorn recruits against a Batarian stronghold to free hundreds of people, Asari included from becoming mindless sex toys for the fucking Batarians, after my commanding officer cracked under the pressure and got half of us killed. Then for dealing with those fucking bastards I was called the Butcher of Torfan. My entire platoon was wiped out by Thresher Maws and I barely survived myself. I had to leave behind a dear friend to die in a nuclear explosion to stop Saren from unleashing an army of tank bred Krogan along with his Geth. I ordered the strike to protect the Destiny Ascension that cost over three hundred lives and that's something I have to live with every fucking day. So don't you dare think that because you lost your family you have the monopoly on grief, that you can hate everyone else in the galaxy and allow that hate in you to torture innocent people who are just trying to live out their lives in peace!" Shepard's voice boomed in the store, reverberating powerfully and was seemingly a crushing weight as Erinya cowered.
"You hate other races when it was fucking machines, SYNTHETICS that killed the people you love. How does that even work!" Shepard exclaimed in fierce frustration.
Erinya swallowed, "The Quarian's created the Geth and caused the uprising by attacking them. The Geth that attached the Citadel were led by a Turian, Saren."
Shepard blinked, that she could understand a little more, "So what was your bond mate even doing on Rannoch?" She demanded firmly, not backing away yet.
Erinya began to pace, increasing the distance between herself and the irate Spectre, "Studying their art, their music. She loved music," her voice was soft, saddened at remembering even though it was over three hundred years ago now.
Shepard softened a little in response, "And your daughters? What were they doing on the Citadel?"
"One worked in the Embassy, the other as a greeter for the Consort. They were both so like their father, both loved to meet new people, new races..." her voice trailed off and tears filled her eyes.
"So your bond partner loved other cultures, your children loved other cultures... how do you think they'd feel about you right now with your utter hate, disdain and torture for the very ones they loved to be with?" Shepard stood tall and firm, her voice was glacial and merciless in its delivery.
Erinya whirled around to face her with gobsmacked horror etched into her features as that question sunk in.
Shepard said nothing more, she just waited and watched the play of emotions cross that sky blue toned face.
Erinya sobbed and sagged back against the wall, sinking to the ground at the horrifying revelation of what those she loved most would think about her right now and knowing how disappointed and repulsed they'd be.
Shepard waited a moment longer before reigning in her anger, softening her posture and walking over to crouch before she trembling Asari, "You can change that. It probably won't be easy or happen overnight, but you can change. Start looking not for the faults in others but for the beauty they can contain. When was the last time you listened to some of the music your love enjoyed?"
Erinya burst into tears, she hadn't listened to anything of her bond mates since she passed into the embrace of the Goddess.
Shepard cringed, she had no idea what to do with tears! But this was an opportunity to really get her point across, while Erinya was in emotional turmoil... she wasn't sure if she should feel bad about this or to simply see this as an opportunity to open the Asari's eyes. With a deep breath she took off her gauntlets and reached up to gently wipe away the tears. Cupping Erinya's face and looking her in the eye she pleaded softly, appealing to her compassion now that the door had been opened, "You have a chance to make a difference in the lives of others. You can help the colonists on Feros in ways I can only dream of doing. My hands are those of a killer, it's the only way I know how to protect others, by getting rid of those who'd do them harm. But if I could exchange them I'd choose the hands of a healer, hands like yours. I wish I could soothe their wounds and broken hearts but that's not my calling. You have that chance, you can save them from the suffering they still endure from the Thorian."
Erinya reached up and put her hands over the warm, pale hands of the human woman, Commander Shepard, more tears leaking from her eyes, "There's so much suffering in the universe. How can I continue to add to it?" She took a deep breath, "I'll re-write the contract, I'll do everything in my power to help them. Thank you, thank you for opening my eyes and helping me to see again," she whispered brokenly.
"We're not so bad when you get to know us you know." Shepard smiled and pulled back, standing and offering her hand. Relieved that this seemed to have worked out okay so far.
Erinya took it and was pulled to her shaky feet.
Replacing her gauntlets Shepard watched as Erinya went straight to her console.
"You can tell Shiala I'll have a revised contract to her by tomorrow afternoon."
"Thank you Erinya. I really am sorry for your losses, and I wish you all the best in the future." Shepard nodded her head politely.
Erinya looked up, "Thank you, you as well... Commander Shepard."
Shepard smirked, "Spectre actually, no longer an Alliance Officer." She tapped her fingers to her forehead in a mock salute.
"Spectre Shepard." Erinya bade her farewell to get to work on the contract.
Shepard left the office with a small grin and confident stride.
Shiala had been sitting patiently waiting on a bench overlooking the bustling sky traffic of Illium, meditating to calm her mind while she entrusted the fates of the colonists and herself into the hands of Shepard. She felt someone sit beside her and opened her eyes to see Shepard taking in the view.
"So Erinya's gonna send you a revised contract tomorrow." Shepard kept her gaze out at the view but smirked.
Shiala was filled with such relief that she threw her arms around Shepard and kissed her cheek, "Thank you!"
Shepard blushed and chuckled, "You're welcome Shiala. One thing that's been bothering me though..." she turned to look at Shiala as the Asari pulled back, a joyous smile lighting her green face.
Shiala couldn't wipe that smile from her face and waited for the question.
"Last time you were green I had to kick your ass... repeatedly." Shepard's eyes were a little mischievous but the question was a serious one really.
Shiala sighed, sitting back again, "Those health problems haven't been restricted to the colonists. Since my time with the Thorian I've been having vivid dreams, my biotics have been unstable and my skin tone changed. It... has not been easy to deal with," she admitted softly.
The smile vanished from Shepard's being. She reached over and took hold of Shiala's hand to give it a warm hearted squeeze, "I can't imagine what you've been going through but green or not, you're still beautiful and have an amazing heart to still be helping the colonists after so long." She tried to encourage the Asari who'd been a disciple of Benezia's right up until the end when she'd been sacrificed to the Thorian.
Shiala looked upon the beautiful, young human marine and was deeply touched by her sentiments, "Thank you Shepard."
"Hopefully now that Erinya intends to be much more helpful she'll be able to help you figure it all out." Shepard gave her hand a final squeeze before letting it go.
"How did you get her to change her mind?" Shiala asked curiously.
"Pretty much reminded her that the people she loved had loved other races and would be ashamed of the way she's been behaving." Shepard shrugged like it was no big deal and that she hadn't felt like taking the Asari by the throat and shaking the xenophobia out of her.
"Ah, I see." They sat there for a moment in companionable silence before Shiala spoke again, "How do you do it Shepard? Continue on when the problems of yesterday linger on in new forms?"
Shepard took a deep breath at the softly asked question, "By knowing that I can make a difference. I do my bit and others carry on with their strengths to do what I can't." She turned to look at Shiala, "There will always be suffering but as long as there are people standing up to fight it there will always be hope. You give the colonists hope by even just trying to help them. They know that they're not alone, they're not forgotten, that they matter and it's because you're still there, still will them, still fighting for them as they face new challenges." She reached up and gently cupped Shiala's face, "You can do this," she assured her confidently.
Shiala actually blushed, her cheeks darkening at the praise, "Thank you, I... needed to hear that."
Shepard stood, smiling down at Shiala with a nod.
"You know we should catch up when I'm not busy with the colony and you're not busy doing... whatever it is you do." Shiala smiled a little shyly, cringing as she hadn't even asked Shepard how she was, she'd been so distraught over the situation with the colonists it hadn't even crossed her mind until now.
Shepard grinned, "I'd like that. I don't know how much longer I'll be on Illium but let me know if you have a free afternoon or something." She flicked on her omni-tool and they exchanged codes.
"Until then, be safe Shepard." Shiala rose to her feet and bid farewell to the woman who had given her a future and hope with a hug and a kiss on the cheek.
"You too." Shepard was unaware at this point in time that Miranda was very unimpressed with her having started to keep an eye on her through the armours camera after her outburst of anger...
He he he... fun times for Seph when she gets back to the Normandy!
Thanks to everyone who has put in reviews! From my glorious bunch who have faithfully been reviewing for some time now (NightBrainzz, Gemini1179, Cambia Forma, LeeneSR2, Liege Lord, Bluemarlin, Tiaxelto, Ily18, Surfergirl3537, Hopelessly Blue, Sarah Andr3ws, Kaiya Smith, Losa136, yog (where u been lately?), gosh there's so many of you guys and I'm sure there's more I've forgotten) to people who are only just discovering this story and starting to drop in reviews. To all of you, you have my thanks, you make my day and make it so much more enjoyable to post stories and inspire me to keep writing!
Also big thanks to a few people I've been pestering and sending snippets of all kinds to: Cambia Forma/theshepardtwins, Madkatxpress and Gemini1179, been loving your input!
Lastly if you're interested in Star Wars let me know what you think of a new story I've started posting: Dancing in Shadows. (I'll put in here I was totally inspired to write this after reading Elizabeth Carter's 'Knights of the Old Republic: Jedi Secrets' she's done an awesome job, go read em if you're a Star Wars fan and don't mind reading a little femRev/Bastila romance!)
Hope you enjoyed! ^_^
[Apologies for the repost, few typos picked up and thanks to Gemini who pointed out I had my Asari names mixed up! Enyala, Erinya... I was close!]