Loyalties:

Mass Effect Trilogy is a Bioware game. For any reference to the Official Game All rights are owned by Bioware. The Fan Fiction "Mass Effect At Dawn Again" is fruit of my imagination and my work, it is a free tribute, passionate and personal to a great video game. It is not allowed any use partial or total for profit and not.

Chapter 1

Nightmare is over ... Future coming alive.

… The endless journey is ended, the Normandy is landing back on Military Airport in London, finally Liara get in shuttle, which will lead her to Admiral Hackett ... Every Street, each palace, any kind of house and historical monument, every vehicle or shuttle survived, bearing the signs of dreadful disaster. Dust and smell of death are not yet completely dissolved, the city is the specter of itself, but wherever there is a lot of ferment. People have begun to go out and gather in the streets ... Who picks up the rubble, who cleans up, who delivers supplies. Everyone is trying to be helpful, they are starting to hope, now ... slowly, they are starting to live...

… Admiral Hackett is a tall man, of about sixties, he has white hair, and his face marked by a deep scar that runs along his right cheek, fading far beyond lips, a legacy of ancient battles. His eyes are blue and detached, inside a proud look, authoritarian and sure. In the war against the Reapers he commanded Galactic Fleets, by escorting the Crucible and coordinating combined attacks of all Allied Air Forces. His deeds will be reminded by future generations as those of a skilled leader. Liara is familiar with Admiral Hackett, he is a wise man, their cooperation has been crux to discovering Crucible existence, and she harbors a deep respect for him. When she enters in his office, she pleased to note that Hackett is well, he is in excellent shape. She stretches her hands and he immediately, holds its in his own as a sign of affection ...

H: Liara, my dear! Glad to see you've completely recovered ... You're in very good shape.

L: Thanks Admiral ... also you are fine ... I'm glad to see you!

H: I guess you will be very impatient for seeing Shepard ... Her injuries are much improved, the Miranda's cellular regeneration therapy, brought incredible results. Her body is healing very quickly. We disconnected its biotic systems, waiting for Dr. Chakwas can make its tests. The neural activity is present, and all vital signs are normal ...

Hackett's words, so encouraging, clash with his worried look, so Liara cannot help herself to feel an unpleasant sensation, which surrounds her stomach without any restraint making fun of her ...

L: but ...

H: but … she has not regained consciousness, yet! Miranda spends a lot of time talking with her, she's sure that Shepard needs strong incentives, to restore cognitive activities and succeeding in wake up! In Miranda opinion, you're the right person to share your memories and emotions with her. She's waiting for you, impatiently, and says you are the only one can bring her back!

L: So, Admiral ... please bring me right away from her!

The trip down the corridor is short, Hackett escort her in silence, while Liara struggles to control herself, clinging with her mind to the echo of her own footsteps, resounding nervously. Trying with all her might to push back away that unbearable anguish, which feels relentless throbbing deep in her soul, shaking every cell of her body, setting off a raging hurricane inside her.

H: here, beyond the door ... I leave you, alone.

… The room is bright and well ventilated, the walls are painted white, such as hospitals. The one on the right, next the door, is completely covered with sophisticated medical equipment. All vital signs are under control: heart rate, pressure, temperature, state of cell regeneration, breathing and blood ... DNA. Nothing escapes checking continuous of terminals, any variation would be immediately detected and corrected. Time is pulsing, by sounds and ticking, rhythmic and periodicals, which follow one another, with metallic sameness. Leaning against wall, facing the door, the bed is large and comfortable ... Wrapped by military bed linen, with a small logo N7, a woman appears, with blond hair, honey color of. She's really beautiful and does not look at all a soldier. Her eyes are closed, her expression peaceful, as if asleep ... The skin tone is still a bit scratched, here and there, she has a pallid complexion, her lips are slightly ajar. Her arms, rested at her sides, emerging from the sheets, her hands motionless have still several bruises, just as, her shoulders bare, left exposed by the sheet. Liara has imagined this moment all the drive back, and every second she seemed endless ... so endless that now cannot believe she's here seeing Shepard with her eyes, alive. Be allowed to touch her, and feel her breath, the warmth of her body, the contact of her skin, the beat of her heart ... She would like to run, jump on that bed and holding her, covering with kisses and caresses, and ...

… However, the lump in her throat melts into tears ... Tears of sorrow and joy, of emotion and pain, helplessness and relief ... of Love. Emotions overwhelming are so intense than her legs are trembling as she approaches to the bed, luckily there is a chair, sits down ... Liara curls up, close to Shepard, delicately taking her hand, weave together her fingers with its, then raises gently her hand. Leaning the back as lifeless to her cheek, closing her eyes and, bending head in a light caress, until it tread the top with her lips that nudges open in a kiss, so delicate as a whisper ... Finally, she calls her, with all the sweetness she can find ...

L: ... Emily! I am here! ... I know you're not sleeping ... you can't talk, but no matter, I'll talk for you until you get better!

Heart rate of Shepard, suddenly increases, for a few long seconds ...

beep beep beep beep ... beep beep beep beep ...

Then, slowly reverts back to normal.

L: you too are happy that I'm here, aren't you?! You made me feel highly worried about you, in all this time, but I knew you were alive! I felt you, you know? When you were, missing in action, asking me for help! I was on Normandy, stuck on the ground for repairs, back on planet unknown, not too far from here ... Ah Emy, I was really in despair! I Felt you in my mind, right when I thought I was having lost you forever. It had been ... beautiful ... almost a resurrection!

… When Miranda enters the room, Liara is still there, in a crouch, so close on Shepard. The head is resting on her pillow, between the neck and left shoulder, her eyes are closed, her expression peaceful. Liara enclose the waist of Shepard with her arm, with the hand instead, she wraps her, just below the shoulder. Miranda smiles tenderly, the long journey and all those emotions, will have sucked up completely any forces that poor "girl". Slowly, she turns trying not to make noise, and took it towards the door, but a gentle and excited voice holds her on the threshold.

L: Miranda! Wait ... don't leave ... stay here!

Liara gets up, still a bit numb, she comes to meet Miranda and holds her hands, before slipping into a very loving embrace. Miranda feels deeply grateful, and reciprocate her affection, with spontaneous intensity. Their eyes meet, they smile and shake their hands again with tenderness, touching their cheeks with a little kiss. Just a few years ago, Miranda would never have thought being able to grow fond, so much with an asari ... It is really amazing, how the lived experiences, can change people so deeply, improve them, making feel close by each other...

M: Liara, you look dead tired! Good to see you! How are your injuries? I find well, you seem fully healed!

L: much better thanks ... I'm happy to see you too, Miranda! You're beautiful ... as usual. If I didn't know the great importance of your contribution in the Reapers' war, I'd say you just came back from holidays!l

M: Eh Eh ... thank you, and you're too kind ... as usual, aren't you?

Suddenly, the voice of Liara becomes more serious, worried and anxious, her gaze darken again, while her eyes become puffy and shiny. She already knows that cannot hold back those tears are furiously scratching at the door of her eyes ...

L: What about Shepard? It's spent two weeks since she was found under the rubble ... Why hasn't she still recovered?! Tell me what's wrong, Miranda?! Why doesn't she wake up?!

Miranda's voice on contrary is full of sweetness, as she tries to comfort her. It looks, like she is talking to Oriana, when with her hand she gently caresses on shoulder of Liara, right down along the arm, trying to smile, even if, seeing her weep over, it is breaking her heart.

M: Hey, come on, calm down now! Shepard undergone a trauma that would kill anyone else on the spot, you understand this, don't you? Believe me, I know very well what you're going through ... I was there, back on Omega, remember? You can trust me, this time ... she is alive! You only have to give her some time. Her progress in physical healing is really exceptional ... Unfortunately ... the shock was so violent that her brain suffered a backlash truly remarkable! Neural activity is not compromised, that's a great news, but restoring cognitive processes, it may take a long time ... In my opinion, the quickest way is stimulating her mind. Her thoughts have to be rebuilt, her emotions and feelings shared ... You are the crux Liara! Do you believe you can establish a mind-meld with Shepard, while she is at this "latency" state? ... Would it be possible, for you?

Liara's voice trembles as she tries to explain, fighting doggedly to ward off also the last tear, wiping her eyes with the backs of her hands ...

L: mind meld usually requires the cooperation of partners and physical contact ... It would be virtually impossible to achieve for any other asari, with any creature in the whole galaxy ... Shepard including!

M: but ...

L: Well, also establish a mind meld at a distance, without any physical contact, such as, the one that I could keep long all the time when Shepard was back on Citadel ... it is virtually impossible! It's a long story but ... Look Miranda, the link between Shepard and me is very special and … it has not equal all over the Galaxy. This is not just of "Love", one day, if you really want, I would discuss that. It's a bond so deep, transcending senses so-called "ordinary" and allows us to connect not only our minds, but also our souls, our vital energies, our essences ... All my thoughts, my emotions, anything that is part of me, mixes with everything that is part of her, and it's shared ... our minds and our bodies become a single creature in complete agreement ... whole myself, and whole herself, turn into a single "One". Do you understand, Miranda? It is a truly exceptional privilege!

Miranda smiles at now. Hope is real, takes on a new consistency, renewed possibilities. There is need for optimism, to minimize ... diluting each worry, and tension of Liara, to keep her calm, helping regain some trust. Miranda oscillates between amazed and amused as she says ...

M: Heck! I said it, you are a lovely couple!

Liara's face brightens and she smiles back ...

L: Oh, right! ... Unique, absolutely!

M: Look, you're very tired, you should rest, take a break now. I asked Admiral Hackett for a room here in the Base, it's useless for you go back and forth from Normandy. Even Dr. Chakwas can stay here, there's plenty of space! Tomorrow morning you will start. Come on, Let me show your room!

L: thanks Miranda, just give me a minute ...

Liara approaches the bed, Shepard's expression has not changed. She runs a hand through her hair, soft and color light, gently glides her fingers drawn on her cheek, brushing her forehead with her lips, and kisses ...

L: bye, Emily, I need to get some sleep now, but don't worry, I'll see you, tomorrow morning ... I miss you! Good night, my star!

Miranda does a really strange feeling: it is the first time she heard someone calls Shepard with her name, probably, it will be the last. However, she is happy that Liara feel so comfortable with her as she did it because, it was a very lovely gesture of love that belongs only for them, and she feels a great satisfaction in having somehow shared it.

… When Liara wakes up the sun is already high, it seems she has not slept so well in years. She feels much better, more rested, with clear head and body regenerated. On the bedside table, next to the bed, she found a tray with breakfast ... milk, coffee, bread, strawberry jam and a handwritten note: "You were sleeping so well that I did not want you to wake ... Having leisurely breakfast, take all the time you need ... I'll wait for you in Shepard's room ... See you later, Miranda.

… Dr. Karin Chakwas, knows Shepard since years. She was assigned to Captain Anderson when Commander was first officer, and she was Crew part during maiden voyage of Normandy back on Eden Prime. When Anderson hand over command to Shepard, Dr. Chakwas always remained at her side, even when she was working with Cerberus to defeat Collectors. She loves Shepard like a daughter, is very proud of her, for all she can do, as a soldier and as a woman. Karin, is fumbling frantically to her factotum, from the first light of dawn. She scanned Shepard from head to foot at least a dozen times ... All the parameters are normal, power-ups received by the project Lazarus, with the valuable assistance of Miranda have been restored and made perfectly efficient. L5 plant has not suffered any damage has been disabled only to accelerate the absorption of any head trauma, however, are no longer present. Medical therapies used, are exactly those she would have given her own. Neural activity is normal, brain synapses were not interrupted, or damaged...

K: Miranda, you and medical staff have done a great job, I would myself not have done better!

M: Thanks Doctor! By the way, how do you explain this delay recovering in cognitive functioning?

K: for the moment I don't explain it! ... Shepard is not in a coma and is not even sleep ... I don't know for sure not even if, it's a brain problem or some sort of blackout of any other kind!

M: do you think she can hear what is happening around her, understanding what we are saying, to recognize people?

Just then Liara enters the room ...

L: Of course she can!

M: Good morning, Liara! I wish I could believe you, but unfortunately, there is no evidence, showing that what you say is true ... all this, I feel very sorry!

L: I think yes, instead! ... Yesterday, when I saw Shepard for the first time, I took her hand, giving a kiss, and when I called her, the terminal recording her heartbeat seemed it gone crazy. I was very scared, I was going to ask for help when, suddenly everything is back normality.

M: by the hell! Are you serious? It never happened recording heart variations since I got here, despite Admiral Hackett and me, we have spoken many times with her!

Dr. Chakwas, connects her factotum to cardiac terminal, extracting out all the previous day surveys, finally performs an accurate comparative scanning ...

K: Liara was right! ... Yesterday at around 16:30, Shepard's beats had peak out of range for about twenty seconds, then back it to 55 / min, without need any corrective action. This is a clear confirmation that she felt a very strong emotion because, she sensed the presence of Liara, near her. I go in my office for studying these data and cross them with the ones of Shepard's DM (Database Medical), so maybe we could find out more. As for you Liara … Miranda told me about her "Mental Merger Theory", at this point I agree with her, and I don't think there are drawbacks ... Just please, do not try too hard, you know how much mental mergers can be very exhausting for you!

L: Of course Karin, thanks! Don't worry, I've learned how to manage my stress, extending the merger time without incurring in any outgrowth ... In these years I had a few opportunities to get practice!

K: however not overdo it, and soon as you start to feel tired, stop immediately and come to me. I'll give you a tonic solution to recover your strength.

… A month has already gone. Liara, every day, joins her consciousness with the Shepard's one, in more and more longer mental mergers, hoping to restore her cognitive processes, reviewing finally, those eyes ocean color of ... open again, unfolding over her, caressing her heart. One of things about her she more misses are the eyes. That look, can piercing you, and gets entangled inside your soul. So deep and sweet, comforting, but at the same time strong and confident, loyal and proud. Eyes that light up, peering you inside, and they cannot lie. Her eyes can read directly into your heart, speaking to you, voiceless. A Look, who makes feel Liara, always be safe, precious and cuddled, protected ... Beloved. Liara think that Shepard has very beautiful eyes, limpid blue and clear. So large, wrapped in long lashes supple, so magnetic and intense ... if you know how looking them, they can reveal a lot of things about her.

L: You know Emily, last night I had a dream: the first time we met back on Therum ... do you remember? Ohhhh!

Liara suddenly feels forces fail her, the room starts to spin around, growing darker. She is breathlessness, and she can't help but letting go, putting her head on the shoulder of Shepard.

Beep beep beep beep ... beep beep beep beep ...

Shepard's beat is out of range from about thirty seconds, and the safety detector, connected to the terminal beeps like crazy on Dr. Chakwas' office. A look at display and it is immediately clear that something is wrong. Karin rushes into the room and finds Liara in a faint, beside Shepard ...

Beep beep beep beep ... beep beep beep beep …

Her confident voice resounds immediately, invading all senses of Shepard and taking control over her.

K: OK, OK I'm here! I'll handle that! It's all right! Don't worry, Commander, she's only fainted ... it's nothing!

Slowly, Shepard's conditions return to normal, while Dr. Chakwas scans Liara with her factotum. Vital signs are normal, the blood pressure is a little low, but it does not seem serious. Doctor approaching her with a small bottle, with a liquid clear to her nostrils, intercepting the breath, and she immediately comes to her senses.

L: By the Goddess! Karin?! ... Oh, I must have fainted, but don't worry, I'm fine now ... Shepard, I'm all right!

K: In any case I would give you a look at the infirmary, so for safety. You're probably just a little tired, due to repeated mental fusions ... Come on, I'll give you some vitamin extract saline, and with a little resting, you'll feel better, immediately.

Liara is still sitting next to Shepard, she takes her hand, talking with the usual sweetness ...

L: Don't worry, Emy, I'll be fine! It's already happened before, remember? The first time we merged our consciousness, after Shiala sent you Thorian's Cipher, back on Feros. I just need to lie down for a bit ... I'll see you later ... I love you!

… Yeah, the Prothean beacon of Eden Prime, Therum, the Thorian's Cipher back on Feros ... Chakwas' memories runs quickly to the day when she met Liara. She understood immediately to be in front a very special creature. Even then, she granted her medical assistance because she had been trapped into a kinetic energy bubble, without food and water, for at least three days. Although she was very exhausted physically, she immediately offered for her help to Shepard, finding the Conduict, by learning about her disjointed visions on Eden Prime. All those emotions, fatigue and absence of sustenance coming on Normandy, she was taken ill. Despite discomfort however, she was really beautiful. All asari are generally nice, but Karin had never seen so beautiful one ... She was tall and slender, of slight build and facial features very delicate. A perfect oval, from which rise up two large blue eyes, colored like sky of Thessia in hot summer afternoons, framed with thin brows, suspended over long eyelashes, sinuous and light. Her eyes were deep, sweet and sincere, but also extremely clever, vibrant and bright. Cheeks barely rounded, enclosed delicately her nose, small and slight, soft upturned and embellished, with brown pretty freckles, who drawn cheekbones outline, in direct conflict with the light blue color of her skin. She had full lips and compact, of an intense hot blue, tapered in the best correlation for that face. The "hair" made up nine skin ridges, which were blue slightly striated with lighter shades, which gave her a certain austerity. But what most struck her, it was not the physical aspect, but her humility, the great education and cultured language, her always respectful attitude, never trivial or pretentious. That her way, so pleasant, to put herself gently in front of any people. Her kindness of manner, the sweetness of her voice, but even more, the courage and great determination, insomuch unthinkable inside a so mild character, which instead, played a key role in her decision to stay on the Normandy, as a full member of the Crew, getting involved herself in a suicide mission, which aimed to stop Saren and Sovereign. Dr. Liara T'Soni was not a soldier, she was not used to battles, shootings or explosions ... Her area of expertise was Archaeology, in which she represented one of the most brilliant living scholars of Prothean Civilization. She spent fifty years studying the Ancient Culture, examining archaeological sites, looking for the most undetectable clues, and writing several books and treatises. She was solitary and shy, would not hurt a fly, purposely, but when necessary she could defend herself very well, thanks to formidable biotic powers of which she was gifted, being part of a very charming and truly unique species: the Asari. The oldest species in the galaxy, known and respected for the great intelligence and unthinkable mental powers, which allow them to combine their mind, with the partner one, sharing some aspects. They are mono-gender and can live for a millennium, defining "by female," only because their appearance resembles women human features. Unlike other species, do not have two different sexes, however, they can fall in love and have children with partners of all races, both males and females. Their particular physiology, allows them to absorb genetic material by father, adding and improving their own. From these unions, only Asari daughters will be born ... Karin was immediately very impressed by Liara, and between them at once established a great harmony, which over time turned into friendship and later became very profound and sincere, solidified more and more by war tragedy, which they have long shared. When Liara confided to her a strong feeling of love born between Shepard and her, Karin was very glad because, she was firmly convinced that no one in the Universe was more appropriate than the two of them to be together: both they were complementary to each other, and close-knit, both their existence seemed impossible, except for together ...

… Dr. Chakwas' office here at Base, resembles the Infirmary of Normandy. Liara is still a bit confused, when she goes in, but she meekly lies down on examination table. Karin scans her with great care, from head to toe, a first time, then a second, so Liara starts to worry ...

L: something wrong? I shouldn't be passed out, it makes no sense! I had not yet begun the mind meld ... what's Karin? I am sick?

Dr. Chakwas smiles, looking up from her factotum and laying it on Liara, with tenderness ...

K: No, I'd say no Liara! Indeed as opposed, you're in excellent shape! You and also ... your child! Congratulations, you are pregnant, eight weeks!

Liara, just cannot believe it! Any phrase or word or expression, remains caught inside her throat ... Her heart is not big enough, to hold all of that emotion, surely it will explode! Her legs are shaking, suddenly they seem turned in water ... then in stone ... then in butterfly wings. She is putting hands both, on her belly, moving them in a light caress ... Her cheeks are burning ... she can't help but smile, and cry, and then ... smile again! She looks around in disbelief, as if she had just seen a ghost. In her mind sounds once more again, Shepard's words that day on Normandy, after defeated Shadow Broker, when she asked her ...

L: So tell me what you want. If this all ends tomorrow, what happens to us?

S: I don't know. Marriage, old age, and a lot of little blue children?

And then ... before final battle with the Reapers … the saddest day of farewell ...

L: All those little blue children will be disappointed I didn't have a speech ...

S: We'll make up a good story for them!

More again, and whispering, lost inside an ocean of sweetness ...

S: Finally, all those little blue babies will arrive ...

What a fool! She would have known, imagining, Shepard also wanted the same! That night, before Cronos, they were both so desperate. They dreamed having a Future Together, with such intensity, exchanging so strong, deep and poignant emotions, stirring their bodies and souls with such passion, so much love, having terrible fear of getting lost again ... However, during those brief and endless moments, they had been extraordinarily happy! Now what she wants more, should Emily to be there, beside her, could talk with her, sharing this joy so incredible, and she would be awake and healed! Liara, feels so hurt! She runs up and rushed into Dr. Chakwas' arms ...

L: Oh Karin! How I wish I could tell it to Shepard, sharing it with her! Living together these unique and special moments will never return! Come back our home, waiting together get to the time! Oh, how I wish she heal and come back to me ... to our baby!

Karin picks up Liara in her maternal comfort, squeezing delicately to herself, gently stroking her back, while she soothingly tells her …

C: Oh Angel, here! Will heal, you'll see! ... She loves you, I'm sure she's doing everything possible to come back ... to you! When you fainted a moment ago, the heart terminal alarm sounded wildly, that's why I realized! Shepard's beats were off scale, and she cannot be calmed down until she convinced you weren't had anything serious.

L: By the Goddess!

C: Don't worry everything will be all right, she will come back, you'll see!

Now, you both have one more reason to stay together. You only need staying calm, and resting you for a while. As you get better, go to her, you have much to discuss!

... While crossing the corridor, Liara turns on her communicator, calling Miranda ...

L: hello Miranda ... have you a minute? I should talk ...

M: certainly, I always time for you Liara. Is everything all right? ... I don't like your voice!

L: no ... oh, yes … Is Just that ... Well, to be honest, I just need ... a friend!

M: I was going to lunch, why don't you join me at the mess hall? I book a quiet table, immediately.

L: All right, thank you, I'm coming.

… In the Mess Hall there aren't many people, lunch hour is just spent, Liara looking for Miranda with the gaze, finally she sees her, sitting at a table on the sidelines, in the far corner of the room. She reaches her, and sits, Miranda smiles …

M: It isn't the Italian restaurant I promised you, but ... what do you take?

L: to be honest, I'm not very hungry ...

M: in this case a good steak will be fine!

Miranda uses the electronic menu sending order. Even if she doesn't show, she very worries, and hope wholeheartedly that has not happened something serious …

M: Come on Liara, why don't you try to tell me what's wrong with you?

Liara's voice is still struggling to get out, she does not know taming emotions, then she hides her eyes, searching for all the best words she can find …

L: you have not seen Dr. Chakwas today, haven't you? This morning, while I was talking to Shepard, before starting mind meld ... I felt sick, and … Ah well, I passed out, next to her, right on her pillow ... She heard me, her heart beats went out of range, until Karin came, and revived me!

Miranda leans out of her chair, looking worried. She is putting on both her hands around Liara's arms, and affectionately squeezes her shoulders ...

M: Damn! Hey, I'm sorry ... how are you now?

L: I'm fine! ... This wasn't due to mergers mental ... Oh, Miranda I ... I am ... pregnant!

Miranda's eyes widen, looking greedily for eyes of Liara. The news is of those who take away the words of your mouth ... or better, it would be great, only if Shepard was not in that kind of "hibernation". She can well imagine what's Liara going through: all the swirl of emotions, which take possession of her ... She thinks it is not fair, so special creature is bound to suffer as well, and even for who knows how long. She would do anything to give her some comfort, so she said ...

M: Hey, Cheer up! I see what you're going through, but ... You know, I'm sure everything that happens, have always profound reasons which stems from … a purpose ... a specific plan! Shepard and you, more than anyone else, you are bound to indecipherable and mysterious forces ... Try to think about all endless list of randomness, have always dotted your union. Even a series of events you faced, which were extremely negative and catastrophic nevertheless have been essentials ... For example, Saren and Sovereign ... without this threat you and Shepard, perhaps have never met ... Think of Cerberus and Illusive Man, without which she would have died almost three years ago ... Lastly, all of inexpressible suffering brought by Reapers ... without which experience, probably, this child wouldn't arrive! And instead, it will! It is a gift of fate Liara, more valuable one, you have had so far! I'm sure, there's one important reason, if you're happening now!

Two lonely tears, shimmering between the lashes of Liara, groping for a moment, then slip down to kiss her cheeks. Her hands trying those of Miranda, because they need tightening them ...

L: Oh Miranda! You can't even imagine how, your words are comforting me! You show me an aspect I hadn't considered. There must be a reason, if this child arrives right now! You're right, of course it isn't just coincidence! Oh, if only Shepard would open her eyes, if she would come back ... to me! I wished so intensely a daughter with her quite a while time, and ... That night, before Cronos assault … Well, now it is clear! She also was longing more than anything else in the world! Instinctively, we were trying to go beyond the tragedy of death, with a real hope of life. Our mutual promise of Eternity, springing by the fruit of our love because ... has been as if, our future together, was finally coming alive!

M: And what could be more fantastic?! So, tell me, two months have passed since you have destroyed Cronos, at least ... How is it possible can't you noticed it? The pregnancy ... how will long?

L: Well, because ... Asari's physiology isn't like human one, it is very different. We have not recurring periods of fertility. When both partners yearn a child, our conceive ability will activate, and it may happens, while ecstasy arrive, a new life will create. Pregnancy duration however, depending on partners species. If they are both Asari it takes thirteen months, otherwise it will change. Considering, I'm eight weeks pregnant, and Shepard is human ... I would say other thirty-one or thirty-two weeks, more or less!

Miranda is very happy for Shepard and Liara, but she fails to prevent a darkness veil enveloping her gaze. Like a torment ever cared for, a never healed wound, who suddenly starts to bleed. This time she is not immersed into twilight of her room ... alone, with nothing but silence around. She looks at Liara, and would not want letting go, while her despair, explodes invincible ... The blue of her eyes is so intense that tears, bringing at her eyelashes seem a wave of the sea, which comes profusely breaking undertow and invading her cheeks with streaks of white foam. Liara looks at her sweetly, she already knows what she worries about. However, she'll wait patiently for Miranda wish talking about ... because what friends this are.

L: Miranda, my dear ... I think you too, need of a friend now, isn't it? Why don't you try pushing out this thing is haunting you? Whatever it is ... Secrets can be more hurt, until not revealed and shared with someone. Having some feelings or pains, will not make you weak ... only more human. Cheer up! Don't be scared!

Miranda lowers her gaze, another tear escapes from the edge of her eyes, she dries it with the back of her hand, as she did when she was a child, then she tries to explain ...

M: My genetic perfection, caused me a benign neoplasm, which condemns me to infertility ... I will never having children and ... well, I was just thinking, how it would be nice if also for humans it was sufficient ardently desire it, in order to have a baby!

Liara approaches the two fingers on Miranda's chin, and gently lifts it up, meeting her gaze, then her hands looking for Miranda's those, once again ...

L: Miranda, you're really wonderful, and I'm not referring to your genes or physical aspect! You're a strong woman, self-confident and determined, brave and clever ... You are sensitive and deep, with a very well developed maternal instinct ... You don't need having biological children to prove it! Just think about everything you've done for your sister Oriana, when she was still a child. Now that at last, after so many sacrifices, we have won ours Peace, and we all can dedicate ourselves to ours lives, you'll find someone who will make you happy, who appreciate all your beautiful talents. You will fall in love with him, building up your family ... having children. This war pulling away many children from their families, leaving them alone in this world, in despair. I'm sure, few of them, more lucky ones, will call you "Mother," one day, if you want it. As, you know better than anyone else, biological parents not always are the best solution for a child!

Miranda, pull gently it towards you Liara's hand, lending support the back on her face, in a sincerely affection and gratitude gesture. Suddenly she is no longer hides herself, and she never seemed so easy to be herself ...

M: Do you know Liara? I've always wondered, how the hell does Shepard sometimes, when everything seems to fall apart, infusing peace and safety, give me back my hopes and optimism, make me see everything in radically different view ... more positive. Well, my dear, I think, she comes to school to you!

L: eh, eh, I can assure, no! She was already as now, before we met! Probably, this only is, one of the million things we hold in common, instead!

M: In any case, you're right! When secrets stay hidden, doing far more harm! You know, I never talked about this with anyone, not even with my sister Oriana, or Shepard ... I'm very glad sharing my greatest sorrow, with you! I think you're right, about maternal instinct and of course, also about the biological parents ... You have instilled great hope in me, I mean really, and I'm very grateful for the nice things you said about me, even, ah … although, I don't think I deserve it ... not all the way, at least … unsaid from you!

Miranda lowers her eyes again and curls her brow in a grimace of suffering, her voice becomes wistful, when she starts talking ...

M: Liara ... I would like to apologize with you! It's a long time I would do so, but I never had the opportunity or the courage, not until now!

L: What are you saying Miranda? Apologize for what?!

M: Do you remember our first meet back on Omega?

L: Oh, how could I forget it!? I was desperately trying to find Shepard, and you and your men saved my life, eliminating Shadow Broker's mercenaries, who were trying to kill Feron and me ... Do you see? I have a debt with you, instead from the day one!

M: Yes, but as you know, in those days I was Illusive Man's First Mate, I was just following his orders. I hated aliens, Asari including, I thought they were persecuting humanity, who want to rid of us, relegating humans as supporting actors to their service, keeping us on the edge of the galaxy. I held you in my sights and ... if Cerberus ordered me, I would not hesitated just a moment, shooting a bullet in your head! Oh, damn ... I might have to kill you understand!? How could I be so shallow and stupid ... so cocky as don't realize how that delirium for humanity safeguard was wrong?! I could eliminate, with no reason, one of the most extraordinary creatures in whole damned galaxy! Fortunately, in the course of time, I had the chance know you better, understanding a lot of things … and learn ... Not a day has gone by that time, I didn't deeply regretted ... I hope, you'll can forgive me, sooner or then. Though, to be honest ... I don't think you should do it!

L: I remember well that day. Mmh, you were very arrogant, you're right! You had no intention of sounding likable and you brandish all your contempt. To be honest, you gave me really on my nerves! But your reasons, were not entirely wrong ... The Galaxy rejected humans, but not for hostility ... It was afraid! Myself, before knowing Shepard, I thought, all humans were a group of aggressive, always willing to upset everything and everyone in order to reach their goals by any means and without bothering to ask permission. All species make mistakes, all people do it, and I too was wrong! You should never generalize. Everywhere in the galaxy there are actually reprehensible and ruthless exponents, representing each breed so wrong, and Omega is its essence. However, most of us are good people and someone is really lot special. I had already understood it, 'cause I had the great privilege of meeting Shepard and fall in love madly with her! At the beginning, with some members of her Crew, coexistence was not easy, but while we knew each other more and more, hostilities and fears given way to respect and mutual esteem ... Today, after all we have suffered Miranda, I feel really lucky, 'cause I can count on many profound friendships, and I'm living a great love story, as I would have never dared to hope, not even in my most secret dreams. Coincidentally, none of these people so precious in my life … is Asari. In fact, now I think about it, I actually can't count on any real Friendship among members of my species. The only Asari who I love since my mother is no longer there ... is my father!

Miranda listens with emotion every word. She feels relieved, all the bitterness and guilt tormented her during these long years, suddenly they seem lighter. Slowly they fade, slipping away like a cloak, and supporting the deep gaze of Liara, becoming easier. She feels gentle touch Liara's hand wrapping the shoulder … tighten her ... comfort her. Then, her voice comes, reassuring her, like a gentle touch ...

L: Miranda ... you shouldn't keep mulling over, it has been three years! You could have killed me, it's true, but ... you didn't! I had just lost, the one I had held most dear in the world, and you, Miranda somehow, you have returned it ... to me. Only this matter to me! We both changed a lot since that day, matured, grown, and ... your Friendship, precisely for this is even more precious to me ... I can assure, you don't have anything to be forgiven!

M: Your friendship means a lot also to me Liara, thanks, for every word!

Liara gets up smiling, she screws up her eye, winking, then she says ...

L: Eh, eh, I owe you for a steak!

Even Miranda gets up, intercepting the strange complacency into Liara's eyes, which it manages to wrest her a wide grin ...

M: You already knew it, didn't you?!

L: Your most secret pain? Well ... I am the Shadow Broker, remember? No secret is ever safe with me!

Returning from Shepard, Liara and Miranda are studying with great enthusiasm best strategy to be carried for tearing her away mysterious slumber, and finally lead her back home. However much, she tries, Liara can't help but keep anxiety ...

L: do you think I should tell it to her, Miranda? Could we shake her, from that sleep? What if emotion is not enough? ... What else remains to do? What if … it is the end?!

M: Liara calm down! We need to think, it isn't a decision to deal lightly. Bad choices, would risk everything goes to the dogs! In my opinion, we'll need more time, doing things quietly. You should re-start walking in your memories with order, from the day when you met, talking about your feelings, what emotions you felt, things you said ... Then, advancing slowly, chronologically, with major events which marked your connection. For example, when you get started on falling in love with her, realizing she returns feelings. Your First Time together, the pain you have suffered, and overcame together. Going through your union step-by-step, using the mind meld, to strengthen sharing memories of your past, making them more vivid and real. Quietly, up to the night before Cronos, relive it with her, let her know that night that, has brought something unique and wonderful, a great special part of yourselves. So, even for this, she must come back. It's time to re-open her eyes ... to meet with your daughter!

L: Well, I think it's a good idea but ... Miranda ... I'm afraid!

Miranda gently wraps an arm around her shoulders as they're walking down the hall, then tenderly, she squeezes her to herself, still walking ...

M: Don't worry Liara, I won't move from here, until Shepard will wake up! You can always count on me for anything, then there's Karin too! ... You're not alone Liara, hold on! We'll make it, you'll see!

Liara tilts her head and laying it on Miranda's shoulder, walking and seeking some comfort ...

L: thanks Miranda ... you're such a darling!

To be continue ...