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.
A/N - Hi, everybody. I apologize for the long wait! It has been too long from the last chapter, I know. However, this story is far from being left unfinished. Unfortunately, I am going through a rough time right now on a personal level. So, other delays are possible in the future. In any case, I am going to write this tale until the very end, I promise. Thank you for waiting patiently. I hope it will always be worth it. Enjoy the reading! :)
Chapter 42
Dawn is about to come
Liara walks alone down the hallway, her breath is getting faster, strained. The soft morning light reflecting on her tentative steps. The infirmary is still absolutely deserted, but the silence all around seems deafening.
Liara's delicate hand nervously runs on her own belly, greedy for immediate relief. Long and tapered fingers move slowly, with a calming tenderness. Though in a completely unwitting way, and instinctive.
Suddenly, the girl realizes that her baby is still sleeping, peacefully. Soft and smooth lips draw a tender smile, unknowingly. A light, barely hint one, but regenerating in its way. However, the pleasant feeling is not enough for Liara to ignore her troubled heart that won't stop to roll in her chest, grievously. That gives her the unpleasant sensation of no longer being able to breathe.
The dread and long-awaited moment has come! Horrible things are about to be brought back to life, and Liara is afraid. In the coming hours, she will recall the last time she saw Shepard. The very last time they talked. When Shepard held her tightly in her own arms, before rushing away towards a cruel fate, unfair and ineluctable.
Liara is well aware that, the full horror and death of that harrowing night are about to resume dramatically life. Each sorrowful thorn planted into her heart in the night of her tragic separation from Shepard is going to fatally start bleeding!
This means that a multitude of awful memories will hit her soul with no mercy, like a sandstorm. That is why, it is so difficult to reach Shepard's room this morning, and to be brave enough for coming in.
Liara holds her breath. Glazed eyes wide-open with apprehension. She struggles not to turn around and run away at full speed. She would like to get the hell away from here. As far away as possible from her unspeakable fears. But, the young mother is brave, and she drives off the bad thoughts from her soul, strongly.
The door opens one more time, then closes again behind her. Liara stays in the doorway, as suspended. Stunning, silent and motionless, like a wax statue with nacreous blue skin. Everything is still, for an endless moment. The young Asari takes a long breath, over which she can count, one by one, the beats of her heart.
She has to make a significant effort to regain control of her own legs, and approaching the bed, slowly. The hand of hers is visibly trembling, while the gentle fingers slip in the softness of Shepard's honey-hued hair, like every day happens, for far too long.
The girl bends down in a tender good morning, affectionately. Brow furrowed with discomfort, she kisses her soul mate, in the magnetic attraction of a seductive smile, so long asleep. The slight touch of lips is innocent, barely hinted, but Liara feels her soul strings vibrating with love. Movingly and deeply, in every cell of her being, right into the core of her heart. She closes her eyes on instinct, sure to pass out.
Before it is too late, she takes refuge in the chair next to Shepard, and grabs her hand. Long blue fingers emphatically intertwined between those, motionless, of the creature she loves, and who gives a deeper meaning to her own long existence. Little by little, the warm perception of Shepard's senses infuses Liara with a great courage, positive energy. Such an unpredictable strength and soothing that only thanks to Shepard, Liara has been able to feel inside, from the beginning.
L: Hi, Emy... this is it!
A light, reluctantly sigh makes Liara's chest vibrating of uncertainty. The young Asari hopes, with every fiber of her being that reliving such a traumatic memory has the effect of awakening Shepard. For that reason, she does her best to stem the impetuosity of her state of mind, and fight her emotion.
She tries to get rid of the unbearable sense of uneasiness caused by the wild ride which has taken hostage of her throbbing heart. Instinctively, she tightens stronger the hand of her soulmate until fully realized she is not alone. The silence is once again dissolved by the muffled sound of Liara's voice. Still feeble, occasionally faltering that is becoming more adamant, breath after breath.
L: Goddess! I'm not ready, Shapard! Not even remotely, but...
Liara pauses a moment. Shepard's presence continues to spread inside her, like a warm caress, which is wrapping around her soul and infusing it with a reassuring inner peace. She blows all the air out of her lungs, confidently. Determination puffs her chest out. Willpower begins to glow in the light blue of her wide open eyes, boldly.
L: Ah, but you're here with me, Love, and we're going to handle it anyway... in our usual way!
She listens to herself saying, with a resolute nod. Once more, Liara's proud glance plunges into the seesaw of memories. She takes a deep breath, and bravely faces the greatest of her fears, with no longer apprehension, nor hesitation. Soon, the warm voice of hers and sinuous pours through Shepard's senses, like a tender tide of love.
L: Well, let's start with the positive notes! Anderson had allowed us some rest, while he was planning for the final assault on the Citadel beam. So, you and I had just spent our precious moments together, intense and unforgettable and were still absolutely inebriated!
However, the little time left seemed to slip away, like sand between our fingers. It was highly likely that the little Aurora was waiting for you to keep your promise of coming and say hello. Of course, I perfectly knew that you were not going to disappoint her. That was only one of the infinite reasons why I was, currently am, and always will be so deeply in love with you, Shepard!
Anyway, we went outside. The crisp and dusty air enveloped our nostrils, vehemently. My fingers still held tightly to yours, like now, remember? And, just like now, clasping your hand made me feel safer, much stronger!
Night had definitively fallen. London was increasingly enshrouded in dust and darkness. However, the yellowish lights of the facility cast a lukewarm light on our silent walking. We both felt satisfied, each one with the presence and the reassuring closeness of the other. At the same time, we could not help but perceive the growing tension of the terrible moments we were about to face, though. Thanks Goddess, we were together, in spite of everything! That was the more valuable prescription to keep any stress, anxiety and almost all the fear in check.
The outpost was large, noisy and heavily fortified. The perimeter was massively protected and constantly patrolled by the Resistance Forces. No doubt, there was no safer place we could be on Earth.
Everywhere a constant hustle and bustle of busy soldiers suggested of a sleepless night. They had a determined gaze, and the fast-stepping, like who no longer have much time. Everyone was concentrated in their own preparations. And yet, every man, every woman we met, no matter what they were doing, wherever they were going. Each one slowed for a moment, and saluted you with eyes full of hope and euphoric admiration.
L: Sounds like your arrival here has caught the troops on fire, Shepard!
I sighed in a soft voice, affectionately. I smiled at you with approval, looking for your eyes. I appreciated this very fact, and I wasn't even trying to hide it.
L: Everybody knows the Commander Shepard is back on Earth to fight the Reapers. They're thrilled! I think that's invaluable for keeping the spirit up!
I stated, in a crystalline voice. You did not answer, and carefully avoided all my glances, though. Your upper lip just tilted with a sheepish little smile, made you look like a red-faced schoolgirl on her first date.
L: The time when the Normandy was taken away from you, and they used to pay your sacrifices with the jail, seems really far away tonight! Now, you're finally considered as the genuine hero that you are, Shepard! Sounds like a victory... must be a sign of good luck!
I pointed out, proudly, as I pretended not to notice your mood. We continued to walk, hand in hand, and you listened to me, silently. Your eyes veiled with a slight embarrassment. However, every time I gently squeezed your hand, your fingers lovingly clung to mine, in response.
L: You know, my star, I'm so happy you're finally getting at least half of all the gratitude and approval you deserve! Besides, your presence here is indeed having a very positive effect on everyone, not only on humans. I am persuaded that's just what we really need right now...
I asserted, passionately. My delicate smile stuck on your lips, as our eyes mingled for a moment. I've been captivated by the sweet embarrassment that caused you the intensity of my praise. However, it only took you a breath to regain the full control of your emotions, and give me a quick smile and, twinkling. Finally, your voice resonated grateful above the noise of the facility. Although you shrugged a little, with some regret, your tone was softened by a slight tinge of approval.
S: Well, actually, we most need weapons than smiles! And, some other million of troopers and ships, but... yeah! We've to stay in the heart of hope. So, at a time like this, whatever helps the spirit is welcome. Just let's hope it'll make any difference!
You ended in a sigh, as lifted your cautious eyes to the dark sky of the night.
L: Oh, it will! You always make a difference, Commander, in everything you do!
I remarked, with candid admiration. My sweet belief, immediate and ineluctable, had the effect of shaping your lips into a smile.
S: Hey, my little Baby Girl. Thanks, I love you too!
You gave me a languid look, as you gently brought my hand to your lips, and kissed it, tenderly.
We pulled for a moment in front of the infirmary door. Although the constant coming and going had not stopped, I felt dragged towards you, in a sweet meeting of glances. A delightful knowing smirk was painting your face, as you pretended to look around. You suddenly pressed your lips to mine, without a word, and kissed me again, tenderly. Instantly, an exciting thrill of sensual emotion got my heart overflow into yours.
The Normandy was in standby on Earth-orbit with Sword. However, all the crew not essential to flight had already grounded, and was preparing to take action. Karin had been the first to land. She was very affected by Aurora's family tragedy, and was determined to do her best for taking care of the child.
We recognized her voice in the distance. It came from a full of light and comfortable little room, obtained right at the bottom of a corridor narrow and dusty. Karin was talking to the little one. Thanks Goddess, as far away as possible from wounded soldiers, and any evident sign of a war more and more senseless and ruthless.
The voice of our doctor was the only sound coming from the room. Soft, warm, and reassuring. The words of hers had the gift of releasing any tension, and converting it into a soothing sensation of calm and positiveness.
K: Don't worry, Aurora. You know, thanks to the medigel of the Commander, your wounds are healing very quickly. Well, I think you should reassure your friend here, and tell him you're all right.
Karin nodded to her own words, with kind eyes. The soft smile that poked out at the left corner of her lower lip, gave her a maternal appearance, caring and comforting.
K: Now, could you please keep his head steady under the scanner?
She demanded right after, in a more professional tone. Karin glanced in the direction of the teddy bear, which the baby had never ceased to hold lovingly in her little and delicate arms.
K: You know, I need to check for brain damage. In addition, I want to monitor the resorption of this little ocular trauma. And finally... if I still have your valuable assistance, we can proceed together to suture that nasty gash on his ear.
The little girl nodded once, standing in front of Karin, without making any sound. She looked older than her age, probably due to the dreadful experience just lived through. The creature rose an eyebrow in concentration. Serious and intent face lighted by large green eyes clear, transparent and keen. The soft chubby hands carefully tightened around the head of the big teddy bear, now firmly placed under Karin's omni-scanner.
The two of us advanced a few steps, being respectfully silent, as our hands parted, reluctantly. The little girl barely lifted her large eyes in the direction of the door closing behind us. As soon as she recognized you, the silent gaze of her was crossed with a slight sparkling light.
K: Stay still, now. Don't move it. That's a critical phase, we can't be distracted.
Karin warned softly, very focused face. She threw a quick glance at the service monitor. Then, she turned the medical device off, and smiled at the little girl.
K: Very good!
She affirmed with a broad smile of appreciation.
K: Ocular ecchymosis has been fully reabsorbed. No signs of brain damage. Even the eye surgery went perfectly well. Once you have finished rebuilding iris and pupil, his eyesight will come back.
Karin's voice was clearly pleased. She held a big brown marker out, along with a smaller black one. Meanwhile, the doctor was testing, with a very professional attitude, the adhesive grip on a piece of white oval plastic. She had carefully glued it herself, to replace the missing eye. Then, our friend spoke again, joyful tone.
K: But, now it's time to treat ourselves to a well-deserved break! It's nice to get friends come over, isn't it? Shepard and Liara have come to greet you. You know, they couldn't wait to see how are you doing!
S: Hello, Sweetie Pie. It's good to see you!
You cheerfully greeted, as you bent over on your knees, next to the little Aurora.
S: Hey, you look great, and your friend looks definitely better too! You know, I always knew that the big boy here was in very good hands with you!
You pointed out, affectionately, as you gave the teddy bear a gentle nudge on its shoulder with your fingertips. Your attitude of elder sister, warm and kind, infused feelings of affection, closeness and protection to the poor thing. The wide light-hearted smile on your face put Aurora at ease. A deep sense of calm and sweetness spread into the room and make her feel safe and sound.
The child, as usual, said nothing, but her gaze was fresh and clear, like young leaves light up by the sunlight. She looked at you in silence with curious, lively eyes wide open on your quiet face. She sounded right. However, something very sad was barely concealed within her look. Some sort of blank and hopeless desolation. A kind of gloominess, dark and distant, which I felt immediately very familiar.
For a moment, I saw myself in a bed at Huerta Memorial, right after your death. A sudden pain bit me deep in my stomach, and I felt extremely close to that poor creature. Empathy was wrapping my heart, and flooding through my veins, like a torrent of chills.
I just wanted to hold tight in my arms that little creature, lost and vulnerable. Promising her everything would be fine, now and forever! Unfortunately, it wouldn't have helped! I knew all too well that kind of despair because had fallen into that same endless abyss myself. I was aware how difficult beginning once more to live it was, after you watched helplessly your whole world falling apart before your eyes. And you feel like there's nothing you can do to prevent it to crumble.
That poor child had escaped from hell, virtually unscathed. However, the deepest wounds of hers were hidden from sight, buried inside her in deepness beyond imagination. The tragic death of her family had left her alone and terrified. In the grip of an emptiness inside, which was swallowing her from within, slowly and inexorably.
Nevertheless, Aurora always appeared to be present and fully collaborative, not like me. She responded to stimuli from the first minute. I can't tell whether it was due to her very young age, or rather to her temper a lot stronger than mine. In any case, I was happy because nothing was more valuable than that for her recovery.
She seemed to find solace in feeling helpful and somewhat important. I thought, if I wanted to be of any help, I had to figure out new positive reinforcements. While I was reasoning on this matter, Karin's tinkling voice and jovial provided me with the perfect chance.
K: All right, ladies, I bet Liara can't wait to assist Aurora in her delicate eye reconstruction process. In the meantime, I'll take care of our Commander here. Come on, my dear, it's doctor's time!
She completed the sentence addressing you in an authoritative voice. Hands on her hips, greedy eyes and penetrating. Karin's approach exuded firmness, and unfortunately for you, was precluding any way of escape. A slight spark of concern flashed for a moment in your astonished gaze, making clear that that medical examination was not planned at all.
S: Thanks doc, but it won't be necessary. I... I'm fine!
You stammered out quickly, in an attempt to sound confident. However, your hand slipped back and forth, between your neck and hair, and revealed a certain unease. Karin seemed amused and not surprised at all. She went on pleasantly kidding, trying to keep a playful vibe for the little girl.
K: Come on, Shepard, don't be childish! You know, our Aurora is a lot braver than you are. So, you can bet in a few years, she will command the Normandy!
She emphasized, half jokingly, as Aurora's eyes were proudly reflected into yours.
S: Fine! So, Sweetie Pie... looks like I've no choice, haven't I?
You sighed, reluctantly, giving a puzzled glance at the little one.
All right, doc, let's do it!
You shrugged with resignation, as you prepared to follow Karin to the other corner of the room.
L: Don't worry, Shepard. Aurora and I will be fine!
I nodded briefly, and gave you a wide, comforting smile, before turning to the little girl in a sweet and joyful tone.
L: I'm ready, Aurora! Just tell me what to do.
The child looked at me, thoughtfully. The smart gaze of hers rested on the two markers over the table, for a moment. Eyes measured the felt pens, carefully. Moving fast from the largest to the smallest. Once, and then once more. Finally, Aurora's little hand firmly grabbed the brown felt pen, and handed it to me in silence.
L: Of course! First, we are going to focus on iris reconstruction. Here, come sit down.
I said, in a resourceful voice, as I gathered the felt-tip pen from her hands. Aurora followed me, obediently. The beloved bear always in her arms. Eyes full of expectations, she allowed me to pick up and place her to sit in the chair next to mine. Reaching out a little, the child placed the stuffed animal right in the middle of the table.
L: Well, this is definitely the hardest part of the process, and I can't do it without your help!
I admitted candidly, as she looked at me full of expectation. My sincere voice and caressing, seemed eagerly absorbed by reactive eyes, willing and hopeful.
L: You know, I would be more comfortable if you were driving my hand. Do you think you can do it for me?
I asked in a natural way by removing the cap on the marker. I was hoping to establish a special connection with the little girl, make her feel how much she was important. It was when a gleam of pure gratification crossed her gaze, as the little hand of hers rested spontaneously on mine, ready to draw.
I began to trace the shape with calm and accuracy, in a concentrated silence. I was trying to obtain an iris, as similar as possible to the one of the survived eye. Aurora seemed to hold her breath, as she accompanied my movements slow and precise, with her careful hand, firmly positioned to mine.
L: Do you like comics?
I demanded, without ever averting my eyes from my work. The little girl didn't answer, but I had the feeling she liked listening to me.
L: Oh, I love them! You know, as a child I always liked to draw. I spent whole days writing stories of buried treasures and ancient and mysterious civilizations that I used to illustrate with colored pencils. We could draw an adventure together, sometime, if you want to.
I ventured in an excited voice.
L: Actually, I've no idea if Shepard can draw, but I bet she will be happy to join us!
I assured, emphasizing the level of my belief with the breadth of my smile. This time, Aurora looked up. A thrill of excitement ran through her eyes every time I mentioned your name.
The instant Aurora came to realize we were about to leave, her gaze suddenly went out, like a candle without wax. Vagabonds and aimless, the wide eyes of hers slid into the void, like two leaves the wind had torn away from a branch. Instinctively, I bent down in front of the child, hoped to give some comfort to her frightened little heart. Instantly, you did the same beside me, as if in a mirror.
L: I know what you're looking at.
I admitted, in a thick voice and tender.
L: You know, once, I used to look at it, me too! No matter how much I kept my eyes wide-open. Sometimes, it happened that I couldn't actually tell if they were open, or closed because... all that I saw was nothing but darkness.
I added softly as I tried to ignore your worried look and desolate. I kept talking, affectionately, as if I knew Aurora was listening to me. You and Karin didn't say a word, just had dark, deep and supportive eyes.
L: I thought that darkness would never fade away, and I was about to become dark myself. I was totally scared! Then, one day, someone came and showed me that even the dimmer light is enough for driving away the darkest night. In a blink of an eye, always and forever.
I admitted, sincerely. Aurora's hands loosened her grip around the body of her stuffed toy. It moved a little into her arms, and I got a sign my words were touching her. So, I got talking to the baby in a calm voice, soothingly.
L: I might take you where the darkness ends, if you want me to. Then, you can see for yourself, in your mind's eye, what happens there after dark. I'm positive you would feel better to find it out. Besides, Shepard and I will be right here with you all the time, I promise.
I said in a touching and sensitive voice, persuaded eyes. You and Karin reinforced my words, silently nodding your approval. The little girl's eyes seemed to regain a little light as they slowly slid in and out of our gazes, one after the other.
I held out my hand, and you did the same, in a wordless communication. Aurora stuck out her little hands toward us, in silence, as Karin was taking care of the giant teddy bear. I smiled at the child, as I took her little hand and gave it a gentle squeeze and supportive.
L: Relax, Aurora. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Don't be afraid, little one. We're not leaving you alone in the dark!
I began a suggestion of mind-meld, just gently and gradually, to ease the little girl. I wanted her to trust me, and to realize that she was able to hear our voices and see our faces directly in her mind. With no need to talk nor open her eyes.
L: Everything will be fine. Shepard and I are right here with you. Come on, luv, can you show us what you're looking at?
My calm voice and encouraging ran through Aurora's senses, as a sense of peace and tranquility spread all around. We waited motionless, holding hands, affectionately. Thanks to our very special bond, I was able to let you take part in the melding. You had a chance to join us and give your valuable support. I could actually perceive a special kind of connection between Aurora and you that made her feel protected.
A few moments later, my idea paid off. The child allowed us to see through her own eyes, meekly. All we saw was darkness. A cold, silent and unfathomable desert of darkness, which enveloped us completely. Emptiness and desolation absorbed the light, swallowed it from within, like fresh air sucked into a bottomless pit.
S: Hey, I'm here... can you feel my hand? I can feel your own, and Liara's too.
You hastened to confirm, reassuring the little orphan, calmly. Aurora felt our gentle hands wrapped around her own, affectionately. Our constant presence, caring and reassuring gave her a tangible signal. No darkness could hurt her. Softly, Aurora's hands started moving in our own, in a spontaneous response and positive, which filled our hearts with togetherness.
A light biotic aura enveloped my hands and yours. Dim light spread all around, gradually revealed the faint details of our faces. Aurora's big eyes emerged from the darkness first ones, curious and wide open. They were staring at us, like two little shimmering stars, with a sparkle of eager wonder.
Chubby little hands began to move inside our hands, with increasing ease, pleasantly. We were able to perceive the loving presence of the baby, which was spreading within us. We shared her own feeling of relief, as it expanded inside her, nicely. We both were crossed by the sound waves of her little heart, as she let herself go with confidence to the emotions.
Dim light wafted all around and softened the edges of objects. When the darkness became less thick and frightening I looked at the child with caring eyes. I gave her a sweet smile, as I looked up at the sky, inviting her to do the same thing.
Suddenly the fear. Cold chills climbed up our spines, transmitting the same distressing sensation to both of us. Dense and black clouds loomed everywhere, reflected in Aurora's eyes who stiffened and clung harder to our hands. We felt her memories starting to emerge, painful and suffocating. We were bitten on the throat by the same sheer terror. Your firm voice and brave faced the dark, fearlessly. Instantly, your words catalyzed all of Aurora's attention, while wrapped her, like a reassuring caress on her hair.
S: Don't worry, honey bee, it's just clouds!
You said, with a comforting smile.
S: You know, just like when it's raining! Clouds are always up there because they belong to the sky. So, they can't go down to hurt you.
You explained, calmly. Your voice cleared the tension, and made anxiety fade away from Aurora's thoughts. The young creature loosened her grip on our hands. There was a great sense of relief while I looked at the sky again. A little tiny point of light was making its way through the darkness.
L: Hey, look up there, it's getting light!
I started saying gladly, as my thumbs stroked the back of Aurora's hand and yours. We cast our eyes through the dense curtain of black clouds that ringed the sky. A dim light silently sprouted up from the dark, like a gentle grain of nacre, which blossoms in the folds of a velvet drape. It looked like a little iridescent pearl. Slowly it widened, swelling with light, carving out more and more space in the clouds. Little by little, the black sky of the night got magically colored in light pink, mauve and indigo, gold and purple. Objects sounded like painted in warm pastel shades, as the air smelled good.
We stayed looking up, silently contemplating the amazing sight that was happening before our eyes. Aurora was motionless, delighted, her mouth wide open in wonder. I let the mind-melt dissolve, slowly. Our eyes opened into the small infirmary room, where Karin was looking at us with the same amount of wonder on her face. Aurora's teddy bear still clutched in doctor's arms.
L: Beautiful, isn't it? That's what happens to darkness every morning. You know, it's called aurora, just like you!
I sighed, shaking my head in amazement. The little girl opened her deep and luminous gaze into my reassuring eyes, and finally smiled. Barely and silently, but she smiled. You and I looked at each other without finding the words, but our hearts were overflowing with joy.
Unfortunately, we could no longer stay. Gazing into Aurora's eyes was enough to realize she had understood. You looked at the baby, appealing face, popped your hand in your pocket, and pulled out a big bag of chocolate.
S: Hey, sugar plum, come here!
You said cheerfully, trying not to show your real mood. You let Aurora sit in your lap, handing her your scented gift.
S: Here, I got something for you. Well, that's really my favorite chocolate, and all my special reserve!
You continued solemnly, staring at Aurora right in the eyes.
S: Listen, I need someone I trust with my life to give it in hand. So, could you please keep it for me, until I get back?
You asked, while you handed the bag to the little girl. A sweet-tooth smile rippled your lips in the silence of awaiting. Aurora picked the chocolate up from your hand, with a nod of satisfaction.
S: Good. Thanks my friend! Of course, you can eat as much as you like. See you soon, Aurora. Be patient and confident. Dawn is about to come, I promise!
To be continued...