Chakwas, Karin

Oh my dear Shepard.

I never wanted this for you. I so wanted you to see this all through to the other side.

But ever since... since Eden Prime and that awful Beacon... Ever since poor Jenkins...

I've had this gnawing in my gut. I think I always feared that this would cost your life - one way or another - even when it was Saren we had to deal with.

I wish I could have helped you more. It hurts so much to lose you again, and of course the Normandy just isn't the same.

Yes, I'm still on the Normandy, for now. It survived - thanks to Jeff. In fact, I think it's partly down to him that we all survived.

But, Jeff... I think he needs me more than ever, Commander. It's so awful to see him - to see all of us - dealing without you. Or rather, not dealing.

This is the first time that I've really stopped to think about what you being gone means for me. The crew has been my concern; I've been trying to do what you'd want me to do. That's what I like to think.

At least this time, we're together. I think the lot of us are afraid that we'll really lose you for good, if we drift apart.

Oh my dear child...

It's difficult knowing that you won't be coming down to the med-bay to visit anymore.

I've been saving that Serrice Brandy for you...

But I think it's high-time I had a drink, for you.

A/N: I'm not entirely happy with the way that this turned out, which is a shame, because Mass Effect wouldn't be Mass Effect without the good Doctor.

So, as always, I'd love feedback on this.

What I am noticing is that the last two (Joker and this one) entries have been on quite a downer. Trust me, it's not going to get better.

Kirrahe is next up, and I'll probably upload him tomorrow. I had a worrisome moment yesterday when I realised that I couldn't find the his entry, but I've got it next to me now, so panic is over.

I wrote up Hackett and Bailey last night, so they'll be uploaded as part of the next wave, once Cortez is up.

I wanted to write one for Emily Wong as well, until I remembered that she's DEAD. Easy to forget, considering how she was so badly side-lined. Scratch Kal'Reegar too.

Can I retcon?

Anyway. In terms of the living, I have around 14 more farewells planned, and if anyone wants to know who they are, then you're welcome to ask. I won't publish the full list since there are probably people who like surprises?

I'm also throwing ideas for something of a follow-up for these at the moment, but more on that in about... 18 chapters time.

Finally, I have a sort of vague question for everyone: How do you view these? Do you think of them as insular and separate, or as chapters in a connected and wider aftermath to the events of the series.

Let me know if that made no sense.

Enjoy!

-Nevery.