Chapter XIII
Early next morning, Shepard and Kaidan paid a visit to Admiral Hackett. The reason Hackett had summoned them was to offer both Shepard and Kaidan a promotion, but before Hackett could introduce the subject he noticed they were troubled. They took turns explaining their theory about Praxidikai, which seemed a little far-fetched, but Hackett couldn't take any chances. He made the necessary arrangements to increase security for the event; there was no way an unknown organization would prevent them from this historic moment.
"Above all, there's the matter of your promotions," stated Hackett as he passed them each a datapad. "Of course, you may refuse, but I sincerely hope you regard them as opportunities. Kaidan, you have proven to be a strong leader, and we need a General with your knowledge of bio-amps to be in charge of overlooking several initiatives for biotics within the Systems Alliance. Shepard, although this long overdue promotion as a Rear Admiral is tied to the function of councilor, I promise you it's only temporary. Once the Citadel is back on neutral space, we will have another candidate filling the position," said Hackett, pausing to let it all sink in. "Also, in order for you to fulfil your roles as Spectres, we will permit you to command the ship of your choosing despite your new titles. I would like to emphasize that these positions were tailored to your particular abilities while giving you as much flexibility as possible. All the details are in the datapads I have given you. I will need a definite answer the day before the ceremony."
"Thank you, sir," responded Shepard. "I think I speak for the both of us when I say that we are extremely honoured to have been considered for these promotions."
"Absolutely, sir," continued Kaidan. "We'll have answers for you soon."
They left Hackett's office with lots to think about. Shepard knew this was coming, but she had been living day to day for so long she never stopped to actually reflect on her future. Now that it was staring her in the face, she didn't know how to process it. Kaidan, on the other hand, had never expected this promotion. He was a little overwhelmed with the trust the Alliance had placed in him.
"Kaidan, I'm proud of you," declared Shepard, noticing a hint of doubt in Kaidan's eyes. "I can't think of anyone more deserving."
"I do," replied Kaidan adoringly. "You know you will be a great addition to the Council, and you'll be back on the Normandy before you know it."
"Yeah, Hackett has really thought of everything. He's a sneaky one," joked Shepard. "We should talk about it tonight over supper. I'll cook this time."
"Yes, I would like that."
"Great, so it's a date," said Shepard happily. "I have to go see Daniels and Donnelly. Daniels sent me an email last night. Something about the Keepers. Might be important."
"A date sounds good. Now would be as good a time as any to pack my stuff from the Normandy," admitted Kaidan, when uncertainty suddenly hit him. "Huh, can I stay with you until I figure things out?"
"Why haven't I thought of this before?" asked Shepard rhetorically. "You should move in with me. I'll send the access key to the apartment."
"Move in?"
"Yeah, why not?"
"You mean permanently?"
"Well, unless you plan to be stationed half-way across the galaxy, I don't see why we can't live together. Isn't that what couples do?"
"You're right," said Kaidan, grinning like a goof. "I'll see you tonight then?"
"You most certainly will," affirmed Shepard while grabbing Kaidan to kiss him firmly.