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IIML: Beyond - Chapter 21: Bargaining

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If It Meant Living: Beyond - Chapter 21

“Bargaining”


Author: Graceyn
Game: Mass Effect Trilogy
Characters/pairing: femShep/Kaidan
Disclaimer: Bioware owns all rights to Mass Effect and its characters
Content Warning: Language, Sexual Themes


“Pick up your faith, yeah, and everybody come with me.”

– Ed Roland



Two Days Earlier (August 21, 2194): Normandy SR-3 Captain’s Quarters


Kaidan cringed.

It wasn’t that he was hesitant about voicing his concerns or disagreeing with her – he had gotten past that long, long ago. It was more that he knew from the look in her eyes that it wasn’t going to do any good; he already knew she was going to win. When she got that look there was no one alive who could deny her.

Still, he wouldn’t be him if he didn’t at least advise caution. “Listen Shepard, I told the Chairman I hoped he’d get the chance to meet you one day, but I didn’t really mean like this. I tried to set them on the path to reconciliation with the Escena – but I’m not sure they’re quite ready for it just yet.”

Standing in front of the bathroom mirror, she threw a reassuring smile in his direction as she buttoned up her dress uniform jacket. “It’s fine; I don’t need the Diramae to throw open their planetary shield while holding hands and singing kumbaya; I just need the Chairman to engage in a bit of intergalactic diplomacy for a few days is all.”

He leaned on the door frame and crossed his arms loosely over his chest; he was already in uniform. “Even so, he may not be comfortable leaving Apérta right now, what with the coup plot and his leadership being on somewhat tenuous footing.”

“If he’s half the man you said he is, he’ll have already executed the perpetrators and solidified his position handily.”

He rolled his eyes at the ceiling, but his expression gradually morphed into a bemused smile; he’d done what he could. “Maybe…”

She double-checked her reflection then crossed over to him, leaning in close and kissing him softly. “It’ll be fine; promise.”

His hands rested lightly on her hips, keeping her close. “Just…be gentle. They may be more assertive than the Escena, but they’ve never met the likes of you.”

She grinned against his lips. “Of course.”

***

Administration Building, Apérta: LMC-Daidalus System, Large Magellanic Cloud


Chairman Milon Comditoroso paced thoughtfully in front of his desk, hands clasped behind his back. He had taken in stride their unexpected arrival and the relative ease with which they had managed to obtain an immediate audience. He was, after all, first and foremost a diplomat – even if the last days had required rather less diplomacy and rather more force. He looked up as the door opened and his secretary showed them in.

“Admiral Shepard – is that the correct way to address you? – I am most pleased to make your acquaintance.”

Shepard’s face lit up in delight; she leaned into Kaidan’s shoulder to whisper gleefully, “He talks!” He just bit back a chuckle.

She took a half-step forward and dipped her head in appreciation. “As am I; Kaidan has told me a lot about you. Allow me to express my profound gratitude to you for aiding my companions while they were here – and when it mattered, trusting them over your own people. You showed incredibly wise judgment when probably everything told you to do otherwise.”

An introspective half-smile crossed his face. “Indeed. I am quite glad that matters worked out as they did.” He nodded formally. “As much as I would wish it, I suspect this is not a leisurely social visit, for the Carpasi are still running rampant and you are in what strikes me as formal attire. What do you need from me?”

Her lips tweaked upward in appreciation; he was definitely a shrewd one. “I too wish it weren’t so, but you are correct. Chairman, I intend to save your people – because though you think you are now safe from these creatures, you are mistaken – but I need your help to do it.”

He gestured toward the balcony; she fell into step beside him as they walked outside, the snowy, mountain-framed city spreading out below them. “I’m listening.”

She sent Kaidan via telecomm as he joined them. You didn’t exaggerate; it is beautiful.

“I need you to come with me to Aethraene; then if all goes as planned, I need you to also come with me back to the Milky Way.”

Despite his best efforts, for a second he looked taken aback. “I’m not sure which is more shocking of an idea – departing the galaxy or going to Aethraene.”

She smiled in that way she had that made the recipient believe it was all going to be just fine. “They will both be an adventure, I promise.”

“Perhaps. Tell me, Admiral, why should I agree to go with you to the very heart of my enemy’s center of power?”

She leaned on the balcony railing. “Chairman, do your people have the ability to see into another’s mind?”

“No. We voluntarily eliminated that capability from our genetic structure long ago as a demonstration of our commitment to privacy and individuality.”

She nodded thoughtfully. “Then I have a story I want to tell you.”




August 22, 2194: The Pinnacle, Aethraene, LMC-Alpha System, Large Magellanic Cloud

They were crossing the atrium toward the elevator that ascended to the Guides’ Chamber when the elevator swooshed down and George stepped off it.

He wasted no time with formalities. You intend to bring this man into Our Chamber?

Shepard met his glittering eyes coolly. “Yes, I do.”

Milon stepped up beside her; George’s gaze slid over to him, and the two men stared at one another.

My name is Milon Comditoroso, and I prefer to be addressed directly.

We were led to understand that you spoke.

“I do; I was being polite.”

Shepard, Kaidan and EDI looked at one another awkwardly as a silent tête-à-tête played out in front of them.

I am Caenvi-na~Rhi-Suadere, a Guide of the Escena.

Really? I was told your name was George.

I…do not understand.

He suppressed a bemused laugh. It’s not important.

You willingly present yourself before those your kind abandoned?

I do.

Why would you take such an action?

Because I believe it is necessary for all our survival.

George glanced back to Shepard and nodded almost imperceptibly. Very well. We will see you momentarily.

***

The phrase ‘stunned silence’ had surely originated from the looks and demeanor and vibes radiating off the rest of the Guides as they reacted to the appearance of a Diramae in their Chamber for the first time in, well technically ever, but certainly in over three hundred millennia.

It was one of the Guides that Shepard didn’t even have a nickname for that spoke first, if only to state the utterly obvious. You are of the Diramae.

He stood proudly without standing absurdly. “I am the duly elected Chairman of the Diramae Board, Milon Comditoroso.”

You speak for them, then.

“Actually, they typically prefer to speak for themselves. I can more or less give you a sense of their inklings. Probably.”

Several voices joined the initial speaker. You do not know their wishes?

He chuckled a little at that. “Their wishes are many, as numerous and varied as the stars.” His expression darkened. “But I am fairly certain that all of them wish to live, which is why I have taken the extraordinary step of appearing here.”

“This is not just your galaxy; it is ours as well. And this is not just your or our universe; it belongs to our guests from the Milky Way and thousands of other civilizations yet unmet. Therefore, I come here today to ask you to join me in helping these people save it for all of us.”

Again, the phrase ‘stunned silence’ was uniquely applicable.

George finally nodded slowly. We accept your gesture in good faith. We asked the Saviors here to assist Us, and they have done so. We do, however, question what further steps you and they are asking of Us, and why – for the measures they have aided Us in implementing show significant promise for protecting Us going forward.

Shepard stepped forward, pulling their attention to her. “When I first met you – after a rather rocky start I’ll admit, though one I ultimately thank you for – you showed me a vision. A vision of the past. I’d like you to look into my mind now, so that I may show you a vision of the future. I suspect you can do this, yes?”

George’s gaze flitted around the circle to his fellow Guides, an instinctive and unnecessary act that betrayed his still inherently…organic, for lack of a better word…nature. We can.

It wasn’t like watching a vid. This was her mind, and the emotions were intertwined with the memories in a deep and fundamental way. She relived it with them, experienced it anew as they witnessed it. The destruction of everything and everyone. Her eyes closed; her lower lip quivered. But she focused on the burning determination to prevent it from happening and remained on her feet.

Kaidan couldn’t see what they saw as he stood there in the circular chamber. She had told him what she had witnessed – but knowing was a pale substitute for seeing, he thought as he watched the expressions of growing horror and despair spread across the Guides.

She had also told him about the things she had done, haltingly and fragments at a time – though only after extracting his promise that he wouldn’t reveal it to the others. She didn’t want them to know what could have happened to them, what had happened to them before she intervened. It was a kick in the gut to think that he had died more than once before she had altered the universe enough for him to live, and an odd feeling to not remember it – but he would never have wanted her to keep it from him.

He was reminded yet again that no one truly realized the magnitude of the burdens she willingly carried beneath that dynamic, life-embracing persona. She bore them so others wouldn’t have to.

He had never loved her more than he did today.

When it was over there was stunned silence of a rather different sort for a moment. Then the Guides spoke with one clear, strong voice.

We will help you in whatever way you require to prevent this future from coming to pass.

She smiled brightly, made all the brighter by the unshed tears in her eyes. “Excellent.”




August 23, 2194: Normandy SR-3

Ashley had tried to warn the crew ahead of time. While virtually all of them had at least seen an Escena by this point, few had interacted with them to any real extent. For all that eight different species resided aboard the Normandy, she had tried to convey that two actually alien people were going to be joining them and to please just be polite and respectful.

And in truth the crew did more or less behave, keeping their snickers and giggles almost completely until after a ‘guest’ had passed and being almost unfailingly helpful when asked. Still, it was a fairly uncomfortable experience for all involved. Except Shepard of course, who seemed to get an absolute kick out of it all.

Both Milon and George had previously seen a hint of the variety of species on the mission; the diversity of the Normandy crew was a bit of a shock nonetheless.

George was rendered…speechless probably wasn’t the right word. He appeared to be overwhelmed most of all by the sheer noise of the ship, whipping his head around at every sound and raised voice. But EDI seemed to have a natural rapport with him, and within minutes of his arrival had become his constant companion even as he silently peppered her with questions and disbelieving queries.

Milon took it all in relative stride, or at least did a better job of faking it. Given more or less free reign of the ship, he casually wandered about, speaking with crew members and asking questions.

Eventually he found Shepard, Kaidan and Liara in the War Room discussing what he believed to be particle physics.

“Pardon me, I don’t mean to interrupt…”

Shepard motioned him in. “No, please do interrupt us before my brain explodes. Is there anything we can get for you?”

“No, no, your crew has been most hospitable. I did have a question, though.”

She shifted her weight onto her back leg and gestured for him to continue. “Certainly.”

“Very well. Though I’m flattered, I’m not certain why you need me here. Georg– sorry, Caenvi – can present your experience to others, as well as provide any information about the attacks that is required. The Escena have provided for your travel back to the Milky Way. Given all that, I’m not entirely clear what my role is in this affair.”

She nodded thoughtfully. “Well, for one, I want your permission for the action we’re planning on taking.”

“You have it.”

“I know. But others will need to know as well – our Council, our military leaders that will have to agree to undertake the mission. They will be reluctant to do so unless they know they have the approval of all the residents of your galaxy.”

“Understandable. But that could be accomplished without parading me about, yes?”

“Chairman, you surely know the importance of visuals. The sight of you and George standing united before our Council will be a very powerful visual indeed.”

He quirked a slight grin in appreciation. “You would make an excellent politician, Admiral.”

“No she wouldn’t…” Kaidan and Liara muttered in unison.

She laughed heartily. “No, I wouldn’t. But I’m not above a little manipulation when manipulation is required.”

“No doubt. You make a good case; that is probably sufficient reason for me to accompany you. Still, I have to wonder if there’s something more…”

She glanced over at Kaidan; he nodded almost imperceptibly. Go ahead.

“I have to say, you really are quite shrewd, Chairman. Very well.” Her arms crossed loosely over her chest as she paced idly along the edge of the data center.

“I wanted you to see that George is not the boogeyman; he’s just a man, and need not be your enemy. But even more importantly, I wanted him to see you; to get to spend some time with you. For the same reason – and also so that maybe, just maybe, he will come to realize that it’s time for the Escena to begin to grow once more.”

Milon shook his head slowly, a thoughtful smile on his face. “I see now I was wrong, Admiral; you are not a politician – you are a peacemaker.”

She bit her lower lip. “Please, call me Shepard. And I just do what I can.”

“I suspect that is rather a lot. Well, thank you for your honesty. I’ve taken up enough of your time; I believe I will go speak to Mr. Wyatt and see about meeting his lovely wife.” As he walked past Kaidan on his way out, he leaned in to whisper, “I see what you mean.”

Kaidan chuckled lightly; once Milon had departed he turned back to the data center and the detailed images hovering above it, an arm across his chest and a hand at his chin. After a moment he gazed over at Shepard. “So how are we going to get them to show up?”

***

Widow System, Serpent Nebula, Milky Way

The nearly 180,000 light-year spanning wormhole that had originated at the enormous wormhole station in the space above Aethraene terminated just beyond the Widow System’s mass relay.

Joker confirmed their location and that they weren’t about to smash into the relay, then sighed melodramatically and sank back in his chair. “Well that was a long trip…”

Not getting any retort, he glanced over at EDI, who had briefly left this ‘George’ dude with Liara to join him for the re-entry. He watched as she blinked in what seemed like slow motion; her eyes remained closed for nearly two seconds. As they gradually opened, a look of pure, unadulterated joy came over her face.

When they were fully open she turned to him, eyes shining with an inner light. “I’m home.” She leaned over and kissed him deeply, then stood. “Excuse me a moment. Shepard will want to know about what Wrex and Mordin have been up to.”

He twisted around in the chair to watch her go; he smiled to himself. There was little doubt that he loved the most unique being in the universe. Also the smartest, and arguably the hottest. Yep, he thought as he turned back to the controls and began transmitting their transponder codes while navigating a comfortably familiar course. Life was good.

***

The Citadel

EDI was Milon and George’s chaperone and guide upon arriving at the Citadel. While Shepard and the others met with Anderson, she took them on a tour designed to give them time to adjust to the heady wonder of the place that was her heart and soul.

She was almost giddy from the rush of power and expansiveness that had flowed through her ever since they had exited the wormhole. She hadn’t forgotten what it was like, of course, for she was incapable of ‘forgetting’ anything measurable. But she had forgotten what it felt like.

She looked beside her to check on her charges, and was pleased with the expression of amazement on George’s face as he stared out at the Presidium stretching before them.

The Citadel wasn’t more advanced than their capital cities; well, it was, but in ways that only she knew about. Nonetheless, the Escena and the Diramae were technologically superior in virtually every respect to the inhabitants of the Milky Way.

But it wasn’t the technological achievements that amazed them; it was the incredible diversity, energy, purpose and dynamism that each walkway of the Citadel exuded. For all their achievements, in so many respects they were limited, cloistered and naive.

In uplifting and assimilating every species that emerged from the primordial soup for millions of years, what wondrous and unique possibilities had they foreclosed? Quite a lot, Milon suspected. He wondered if Caenvi suspected it as well, or if he was too stubbornly blind to consider it.

He got an answer of sorts when a few minutes later Caenvi spoke in his mind. We imagined We were superior in all things.

It seems we were wrong. Not in every way, but…in enough ways.

Do you think We can…learn…from these strange people?


There was a pause. We should probably consider it.

A light chuckle reverberated in Milon’s mind. I won’t tell if you won’t.

Milon laughed aloud, earning a curious glance from EDI as they walked along the Presidium Promenade. It’s a deal.

***

Anderson jumped up from his chair at their arrival, straightening formally then bowing slightly at the guests that were oh-so-obviously alien. “Welcome to the Citadel, travelers. I am Councilor David Anderson, Human representative on the Citadel Council, our governing body.”

Shepard smiled affectionately at his formal overtures as she came to stand beside him. “This is Caenvi-na~Rhi-Suadere of the Escena Guiding Council and Chairman Milon Comditoroso of the Diramae Board. They have accompanied us here to show support for our proposal and provide any information the Council may request.”

“Well, we are honored to have you.”

She laid a hand on his shoulder. “I don’t mean to cut short the pleasantries, but the sooner we get this over with, the better. On my behalf, they have something to show you.” She paused, frowning deeply. “Anderson, let me say ahead of time – I’m truly sorry you have to see this. But it’s the only way.”

This time Kaidan and the others knew exactly what Anderson was seeing. All of the command staff had been shown the vision of the complete destruction of the universe before their arrival at the Citadel. They needed to fully understand the stakes. Though they had each asked for it, it wasn’t an experience any of them cared to repeat.

By the time it was over, Anderson had sagged against the edge of his desk. He took several deep breaths, then slowly turned to Shepard. His voice was low and heavy. “When is this?”

“Just over twelve hundred years from now.”

His face lit up in hope. “Then we have time; time to prepare, to come up with alternatives.”

Her head shook sadly. “Not so much time. See, once the Escena fully implement the shield technology, eventually expanding it to protect their stations and later their planets, the Aduri will find a major food source has dried up. They will go looking for more.”

“I don’t understand.”

“The Aduri were born of the wormholes the Escena use; as a bridge from their dimension to normal space-time, these paths are a natural beacon for them to follow. There’s only one place – at least that we know of – that wormholes have traveled outside LMC.”

His eyes widened in horror. “Here…

She nodded. “In about a hundred years they will arrive here and in force. We’ll defend ourselves, but ultimately won’t be able to keep up with the damage they do. We could try this solution at that time, but I believe by then they’ll be far too large, numerous and powerful to destroy. In fact, every day they multiply and grow stronger – which is why we need to act as soon as possible, while we can still stop them.”

He nodded distractedly. “Of course. I’ll arrange a Council meeting immediately.” He quickly checked the schedule. “Will first thing in the morning do?”

***

Tayseri Ward

Kaidan exhaled in contentment as they stepped through the door to their apartment. “Home…”

He dropped his bag on the floor, tapped the shades control to open, and wound his arms around her waist from behind.

The shades rose to reveal the twinkling lights of the Ward arms, extending for kilometers into the foggy lavender of the nebula. The cleaning service had kept the place spotless, and the fish swam contentedly in the tank along the far wall.

She relaxed into him. “It is good to be home.”

“Finally, it’s really just you and I.” He kissed her ear softly; as he did he noticed her lips twitching erratically. His eyes narrowed suspiciously.

“You invited everyone over, didn’t you?”

She shrugged impishly. “Not everyone. Just Ash and Andrew…and Garrus…Anderson…Liara…of course she’ll probably bring Keenon…I suppose Garrus may bring Litha, too…oh, and Miranda. I don’t think Jacob can come though.”

He groaned and dropped his forehead to her shoulder. “Shepard…

“I just wanted to show my appreciation for everything they’ve done and all…”

He shook his head in resignation. “Okay. I won’t argue. I did have this whole romantic evening planned – it involved a luxurious bubble bath, lots of candles, a bottle of very expensive wine…”

Her eyes grew increasingly wider. “Well I can just tell them something came up, and – ”

“Oh, no, I wouldn’t dream of spurning them now. Maybe we can do it tomorrow night – assuming we’re still here of course…”

Her voice was plaintive and a little desperate. “But…bubbles…

He grinned and kissed her deeply, picking her up in his arms; her legs wound tightly around his hips. He murmured against her mouth even as he was already carrying her toward the bedroom, “How long until they get here?”

Her lips caressed his cheek as they slid to his ear. “Long enough.”

***

The Presidium Pointe caterers had come through in style, but the platters of fresh, top-shelf, “home”-cooked food were picked clean in record time. Yet another way in which it was damn good to be home.

It wasn’t a party as such; certainly not a party like had been thrown on the Normandy days before – which wasn’t to say that more than one bottle of wine and liquor weren’t opened and emptied.

Sensing the need for old friends to spend some peaceful time together, both Litha and Keenan had excused themselves after a few appetizers, citing the long list of people to check in with and other responsibilities. Andrew had tried to leave, but Kaidan had insisted that he stay.

EDI telecommed her early in the evening. George and Milon have been in almost constant conversation for the last two hours. Silently of course, but I could tell by their body language. I believe your plan has worked, Shepard. I have now safely deposited them at their accommodations for the night, and will keep an eye out should they decide to wander.

She laughed quietly. Good. Would you like to come by for a while?

No, thank you. There are some…places…I am anxious to visit. I will see you tomorrow.

Good night, EDI, she sent then joined Miranda in the kitchen mixing up a pitcher of cocktails.

Miranda glanced up when she entered. “Would you like a drink?”

“Sure.” She accepted the glass and took a sip. “Hmm, that’s good. Listen, we haven’t really had the chance to talk much, and I wanted to thank you.”

Miranda raised an eyebrow, glass at her lips. “What for?”

“In the days after the accident, you kept the ship running and the crew focused. It would have been so easy for it all to fall apart after what must have seemed at the time like a catastrophe. But you held everything together. I know it wasn’t easy. So thank you; I mean it.”

Miranda sighed in feigned dismissiveness and took a long sip of her drink. “I just did what I had to; what you brought me along to do. I knew – I thought – you would be counting on me, so I…tried to do what I believed you would want.” Her head cocked to the side behind the marbled glass. “But how do you know whether I kept things running well or not?”

Shepard opened the fridge and leaned in, searching for appropriate snacks; everything the caterers had brought had been wiped out in the first twenty minutes. “Garrus told me.”

“Garrus. Vakarian. The grumpy Turian.”

Thankfully, EDI had ensured the fridge was restocked promptly upon their arrival in the Widow System; she pulled out a wrapped block of sharp cheddar then leaned against the fridge. “Oh come on, he’s not that grumpy.”

“He is to me…seriously, Vakarian? I was under the rather distinct impression that his opinion of me was…sub-optimal.”

Shepard rolled her eyes dramatically. The fact that she had also seen it herself was irrelevant. “Seriously, Vakarian. He may not particularly care for your…um…style…” she burst out laughing, doubling over while trying not to dump the cheese all over the floor. Miranda tossed her head back in a fit of giggles; some of her drink sloshed over the edges of the glass and onto the floor.

They were loud enough for Kaidan to half-stand from the couch where he was talking with Anderson and Andrew. “Ladies? Anything we need to know about?”

She waved him off and took a few deep breaths, then attempted a serious expression. “But he respects you. And one thing about Garrus is he will always give praise when he thinks it’s deserved. Maybe not to the person deserving it…” she chuckled briefly “…anyway, I just wanted to say thank you.”

Miranda raised her glass to Shepard’s. “In that case, you are most welcome.”

Miranda departed for the living room with the pitcher, and Shepard set about slicing up the cheese. A moment later she could feel a pair of eyes on her; she glanced sideways to find Liara leaning on the open wall, one ankle thrown over the other, smiling mysteriously. Uh-oh. “What’s up?”

“I know it was you.”

She looked over questioningly. “You know what was me?”

“On that crashing space station. The blue ball of energy. I know biotics when I see them, and that was biotics. The only other people on the trip capable of biotics were Kaidan, Miranda, Jacob and Thane. Kaidan was dealing with his own problems at the time, and somehow I don’t think Miranda, Jacob or Thane could have managed it. Not that I know how you managed it – but you did.”

Shepard grimaced, staring down at the startlingly imperfectly-sliced cheese on the tray. “I don’t know what you’re talking about, Liara, I wasn’t even there. That would be impossible.”

“Yes.” Liara nodded stoically. “Still, that’s never been much of an impediment where you’re concerned. It’s fine; I don’t need to know how you did it. I’m sure you have a good reason for not wanting to talk about what all you went through; given the part of it we were shown, I imagine it wasn’t pleasant. But you saved my life – and I just wanted you to know that I know that, and am immeasurably grateful.”

She bit her lower lip, a soft twinkle in her eye. “Keenon saved your life.”

Liara smiled. “Yes, he did. And you made sure that he had the opportunity to do so.”

Shepard impulsively reached out and hugged her tightly. Liara started briefly, then awkwardly returned the embrace. “You’re a truly wonderful friend, Liara. I’m very glad I didn’t let those Geth get you back on Therum.”

Liara laughed into her shoulder. “So am I, Shepard. So am I.”

***

Anderson relaxed back in the lounge chair and kicked one leg over the other. “So you guys went all sorts of backward and forward in time while going all over the galaxy?”

Kaidan nodded. “We really kind of did; for most of us it wasn’t enough of a jump to make a big difference…but Major Vega went over three hundred thousand years into the past.”

He shook his head in disbelief. “Damn…Kahlee’s going to love hearing about this.”

Ashley quirked her head to the side. “Where is Vega, anyway?”

Shepard winced as she settled back onto the couch beside Kaidan. “I…didn’t extend an invitation to him. I love James, but he would want to turn this into a party to rival the other night – and I don’t think many of us would survive that.”

Ashley shook her head solemnly in agreement while Andrew mouthed a silent ‘thank you’ over her head.

Ashley leaned over to the table to snag a cracker and cheese slice, then looked back at Shepard. “So…do you think we should tell him?”

As the only newcomer to the crowd, Anderson rightly assumed she was talking about him. “Tell me what?”

Shepard smirked, chuckling lightly. “Well I guess we’re telling him now…”

Anderson dropped his elbows to his knees and leaned forward expectantly.

Ashley swallowed visibly, shared a small smile with Shepard, then turned to him. “Shortly after we arrived at where the Escena live, Shepard went back in time to Virmire in 2183 and rescued me.”

His brow knotted up. “I don’t understand.”

“On Virmire, I was pinned down and injured on an AA gun tower, the squad I was leading wiped out. I had more Geth bearing down on me and I couldn’t walk and the bomb was going to go off in less than five minutes. I was preparing to see my dad again, when Shepard suddenly appeared at my side – and not the Shepard that was on that mission; she was busy downstairs trying to kill Saren.”

She grinned slyly at Shepard again. “She put Medi-gel on my wounds, killed the Geth, got shot herself in the process, and helped me make it downstairs. Then she vanished.”

Anderson stared at them for a long moment, a thoroughly flabbergasted expression on his face. His gaze cut over to Shepard. “And that was you…now?”

She nodded slowly. “When I first met the Guides, they opened a wormhole for me back to that place and time; it was a…goodwill gesture.”

His gaze darted back to Ashley. “And you’ve known all these years?”

“Yep. I mean, we didn’t exactly have time to chat about the details or anything; but some sort of time travel was the only thing that made any sense – which is to say none. But I never told anyone, because I have a reputation for being sane, and wanted to keep it.”

“Well I’ll be…” Anderson had a vaguely troubled look in his eyes.

Shepard smiled brightly and stood, breaking the spell. “How about I open another bottle of wine?”

***

He caught up with her at the pantry a few minutes later. “Shepard, can I ask you something?”

She nodded from inside the pantry. “Of course.”

“If I understand this correctly, until a month ago, Williams was…dead?”

She sighed and leaned against the door frame. “No. She never died.”

He frowned deeply. “But…”

“I don’t pretend to entirely understand it myself. But when I went back, everything that came after was changed. Whatever might have otherwise happened, it was erased.”

“But if you only did this a few weeks ago, shouldn’t I remember what it was like?”

“Eh…no. Wormholes and shattered dimensions excepted, time still only moves forward, and…hell, I don’t know how to explain it.”

“Do you remember it?”

She nodded. “Because I went and returned through a wormhole, I must have been somewhat insulated from the unfolding timeline. I remember both pasts – but I am and will always be the only one who does.”

He exhaled heavily, shaking his head. “I just can’t imagine her not being around all this time, all the things she’s done…”

She shrugged weakly. “It was…it was life, and we didn’t know it could be different. But she is a crazy force for good, and the world is better with her in it. Without a doubt.” She had spent some time thinking about it, and truly the only event she almost wished she could have back was those first few hours after Kaidan boarded the Normandy following the Cerberus coup attempt…but that would require that he almost die on Mars, and she most definitely didn’t want that back.

She patted him on the shoulder. “Don’t stress your brain over it. She’s here, and that’s all that matters.” She then piled two bottles of wine, along with bottles of port and single-malt scotch, into his arms and shoved him back toward the living room.




August 24, 2194: Citadel Council Chambers

“Hi, guys. Miss me?”

Most of the Councilors smiled politely. The Salarian Councilor scowled. Shepard smirked.

She gestured to the men standing on either side and just behind her. “This is Caenvi-na~Rhi-Suadere of the Escena and Milon Comditoroso of the Diramae; they are here representing their people, the great civilizations of the Large Magellanic Cloud.”

The Asari Councilor took the lead. “Welcome, Ambassadors. We are honored by your presence. If there is anything we can do for you, just ask.”

Thank you, Madam Councilor. “Thank you.”

The Councilors were far too smooth of politicians to react to the strange dual communication. The Turian Councilor cleared his throat. “Councilor Anderson has briefed us on the reason for this meeting. Though he seems utterly convinced, we are extremely skeptical to say the least of the need for this radical action you are suggesting.”

Shepard smiled thinly. “I would expect that to be your initial reaction. One reason why my guests have traveled such a great distance is to impress upon you the seriousness of the threat. They have seen an increasing number of their worlds and millions of their people wiped out by the Aduri, and fully support this plan. They are willing to answer any questions you may have.”

“And we will endeavor to help our new colleagues any way we can, of course. But you are talking about committing genocide on a species we have never even met, based on one or two encounters.”

Much as she had more than six months ago, she dropped her chin and stared slightly up and sideways at him, an eyebrow raised. “Yes, genocide is exactly what I’m requesting. This will actually be the fourth time I’ve committed genocide – I find I’m getting pretty good at it.”

Savior. Killer. Protector. Destroyer. She had come to terms with the dichotomy.

“But what you are – ”

“I wasn’t finished. Each time I’ve done so, I’ve saved innumerable more lives – innocent lives – in the process.”

The Turian Councilor frowned. “We don’t dispute that – ”

Still not finished. If I could have a friendly conversation with these Aduri, explain the situation to them, and convince them to stop ripping apart space and slaughtering whomever they come across, I’d cheerfully do so. But they are beyond our reach – and if they aren’t stopped they will destroy us all.”

“Now there’s no reason to think – ”

She sighed dramatically and looked over at George in exasperation. “Just show them.”

Very well. Councilors, prepare your minds.

***

Presidium

She and Kaidan walked with Milon, George and EDI along the Promenade toward the docks transports. Noticing that George was trailing behind, she slowed her pace to fall in beside him.

You have tricked me, and you should know that I am not unaware of it.

She tamped down a grin. “It was crucial that you come here with me and help me make the case.”

Granted. Nonetheless, you had additional motivations. You have maneuvered it so that I have made a friend of my enemy and have been exposed to a thriving, vibrant diversity of life that, though not so advanced as my own, has much to commend it. You have forced me to consider whether We know quite so much as We believe we do.

She did grin then. “I didn’t force you to do anything. If you have become friends with Milon, it is because both he and you are friend-worthy; what you take away from your visit to my galaxy is entirely up to you. But I am glad you had the opportunity to see it.”

As am I. It is an uncomfortable thing, contemplating change, but it is my responsibility as a leader to do so. So though you are devious, I thank you.

She chose not to comment on his increasing use of the singular pronoun, and just dipped her chin in acknowledgement. “In that case, you are very welcome.” She paused. “I do have a question, though. I was wondering…can you hear the Whole this far away?”

Yes, if I turn my attention to it; it is rather dim, however.

“Does the silence make you feel lonely?”

It might, if it weren’t for all the racket assaulting my ears. Your Citadel is exceedingly loud.

She chuckled in commiseration. “Yes, it is.” Then she gestured to the approaching elevator, and they caught up with the others.

“Steve is going to take you both home in the Raptor; I’m sending a few of the crew with you in case anything comes up. We’ll be in touch once we have a firm timetable; it shouldn’t be more than a few weeks.”

They exited the elevator to Docking Bay E-17. The Normandy hung sleek and graceful on the other side of the windows; the sight of it never failed to bring a smile to her face. They paused at the railing.

“EDI will take care of getting you situated. Both of you, thank you for coming here with me; I’m very grateful.”

Milon grasped her hand in his. “It is we who are grateful, in more ways than one.” He shook Kaidan’s hand; he had picked up on a number of their social customs with the speed of a gifted politician. “Sir, it’s been a pleasure–and this time, no one had to get shot.”

Kaidan laughed lightly. “I think we’re all glad for that. Good luck to you both.”

George lowered his head formally in a half-bow, then they followed EDI into the airlock.

Once they were gone she turned to Kaidan, holding his hands in hers and leaning in for a gentle kiss.

He sighed softly against her. “Time to go to work.”

She dropped her forehead to his. “Not just yet. Tomorrow we’ll go to work. Tonight, I believe you promised me bubbles…
[Note: If the formatting looks a little different and wonky, that's because DA Stash and submissions are being wonky...]

What do you do after you’ve saved the galaxy? Save another one, of course! Seven years after the end of the Reaper War, Shepard and her team embark on a journey into the unknown. Along the way they must confront questions about the nature of the universe, life itself, and themselves. Sequel to “If It Meant Living” and "Tales."

Ship Manifest: graceyn.deviantart.com/art/Ope…
Dossiers: graceyn.deviantart.com/art/Ope…
SR-3 Layout: graceyn.deviantart.com/art/SR-…
Cover Art: graceyn.deviantart.com/art/Bey…
Concept art of the Escena, courtsey of ~Lakdav : lakdav.deviantart.com/art/Esce…

***
Companion art piece, "Citadel Approach": graceyn.deviantart.com/art/Cit…

Also, there was a subtle reference to an old piece: graceyn.deviantart.com/art/Sav…

***
Thanks so much to ~Nanahuatli for this adorable "Little Graceyn Shep": nanahuatli.deviantart.com/art/… :love:

***
First - Ch. 1 "Quantum Signals, Old Mysteries, and New Stars" -> graceyn.deviantart.com/art/IIM…
Previous - Ch. 20 "Lost and Found" -> graceyn.deviantart.com/art/IIM…
Ch. 21 "Bargaining" -> Viewing
Next - Ch. 22 "A Capital Plan" -> graceyn.deviantart.com/art/IIM…

***

"If It Meant Living" starts here, with "Chapter 1: Beginnings" -> graceyn.deviantart.com/art/If-…
And ends here, with "Chapter 72: The Cycle Ends" -> graceyn.deviantart.com/art/If-…

"Tales" starts here -> graceyn.deviantart.com/art/If-…
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DelphiRose's avatar
I love it when a plan comes together.