Note: Can you wait for ME3? I can't! I'm going crazy!I'm keeping away from spoilers and keeping my fingers crossed for lots of gooey Garrus goodness! Needless to say updates will continue to be slow, but that enthusiasm and inspiration will be high. I hope my readers will stick with me for the ride.
All standard disclaimers still apply. Although I don't own the characters or universe, I do work hard on my little stories. Please don't print or repost without my knowledge. Thanks.
And thanks again to all the people who've taken time to encourage me by adding me or my story to favorites or alerts. And, most especially, thanks to those few who've written reviews. I welcome your interest, thoughts, and ideas-even constructive criticism. Your support is always appreciated, and often instrumental to maintaining the inspiration necessary to develop a story.
Chapter-Specific Notes: I really try to avoid posting such small chapters, but I felt like this really deserved to be included in the story in honor of the impending events of ME3. Not sure if this takes place direct after Arrival, or after the suicide run when the Normandy has been refitted enough to head for place following all other currently extant chapters of Parts Answering Parts.
"Garrus...if this trial goes against me...against us..."
"About time we mounted another prison break," Garrus interrupted, the tension in his neck and back belying the humor in his voice. "I'd say we were overdue."
Shepard shook her head. "The thought is appreciated, but the action is countermanded. We can't win this war without the entire galaxy behind us. The common population has to believe I'm trying to protect the best interests of each and every one of us, not just myself or the Alliance. If they don't, they won't fight, and we will lose. I will go to prison, and I will do my time...and you will win this war for us-for all of us."
"Shepard..." there was so much to say...and there were no words to say it. "I know you admire my style, but-"
"I lost my entire unit the first time, too, Garrus. You can do this," she said it simply, her eyes meeting his, level, calm, unwavering. Absolute. "You will."