text:
Deviant Art
Sentinel - Chapter Twenty-fiveTitle: SentinelSentinel - Chapter Twenty-five in Romance More Like This
Author: Golddragon85/Tovaras
Game: Mass Effect
characters/pairing: Male John Shepard/Kaidan Alenko
Disclaimer: I own nothing besides my own playthrough of the games. ... Sadly, I don't make money out of it.
The Message:
"You knew. You knew that Shepard would come to Horizon to investigate and you sent him. You… You encouraged him to go there. Why didn't you contact me and warn me so I could at the very least have prepared myself?!"
Kaidan wasn't a man that snapped easily, but when Anderson told him that only a week after Kaidan had left for Horizon, Shepard had appeared in his office, something inside his mind just broke.
And when Kaidan snapped, he seemed to do put as much effort into that as he did with everything else.
'No point in doing something unless you are going to do it properly,' his mother had used to say, but he didn't think she'd had Kaidan's temper in mind when she had said that.
Sentinel - Chapter NineThe Hero of Elysium:Sentinel - Chapter Nine in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Being head of the Marine details meant that there was nothing that Kaidan didn't know about the things that were going on around the ship except for the things he weren't supposed to know. He was fine with that, it was the way he preferred things.
He was also surprised over the amount of people he actually knew, but the one that made him grin when he saw him was Joker. He was not surprised that Anderson and Hackett had chosen him to fly the Normandy.
"This dame needs a special hand to fly her and I got the touch," Joker said, grinning at Kaidan who just chuckled and grinned in return.
The biggest surprise though was when the commander of the ship was announced, making several people gasp. Whispers were already filling the briefing room.
There was not a soul who had not heard about Commander John Shepard, the latest N7 graduate. The hero of Elysium.
People were talking, creating their own images about the man. They had been doing that for the last seven years
To See you AgainTo See You AgainTo See you Again in Romance More Like This
Author: Golddragon85/Tovaras
Game: Mass Effect
Characters/pairing: Male John Shepard/Kaidan Alenko, former Kaidan Alenko/Rahna (kinda)
Disclaimer: I own nothing besides my own play through of the games. ... Sadly, I don't make money out of it.
She was the last one Kaidan had expected to meet again after so many years, let alone after a Reaper-war that had killed more humans and claimed more lives than any other war he had heard of.
Truth be told, he hadn't really been thinking that much about her in between all the fighting and travelling.
If he had been a man of faith, he would have guessed that the meeting was meant to be, in a way. That what happened all those years ago was coming around to this very meeting.
If he had been a lesser man, he would have gloated at how far he had come or act like he was still hurt by what had gone down when they were just teenagers, but it was for that very reason that he wasn't mad.
They had been teenagers. Spec
Sentinel - Chapter FourteenWarmth:Sentinel - Chapter Fourteen in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Kaidan had never been one for parties, especially not when he was still recovering from his cold.
Chakwas had found it downright funny that he'd been that knocked out by a simple cold, describing it as a "man-cold", which Kaidan didn't quite get. A cold was a cold, right, no matter who it happened to blossom in.
Still, it was nice to get the offer and he had to admit that the pout on Ashley's face had been a cute one when he said no.
"I'll make it up to you when we are done at Virmire. I promise."
"I'll hold you to that, LT," she had grinned before tugging Tali and Shepard along with her.
The Normandy was surprisingly silent every time the crew got shore-leave, and Kaidan was enjoying it to the max. Rumours had it that their next mission on Virmire would be a big one so this was probably the last chance people would have to blow off some steam.
Or do like Kaidan and just enjoy the peace and quiet.
Armed wi
Sentinel - Chapter TwoLittle Boy Blue:Sentinel - Chapter Two in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
After three days, Kaidan was sure that the blue-eyed guy was stalking him. Either that or he was assigned to every god damned place he happened to be at.
He didn't look at only him, that much Kaidan was sure of. But when Kaidan was looking at him, the stranger seemed to be studying him.
This made Kaidan nervous. And when he was nervous, he fucked up more easily.
"God damn it, Alenko, where the hell is your head?! You would have been dead out there," Michael barked, tugging off his helmet so he could give Kaidan a proper glare as they walked out of the simulator, breathing hard.
"I am sorry, okay? It's just That guy makes me nervous. He keeps -staring-," Kaidan barked back, wiping away the sweat on his forehead, helmet already under his arm.
"Get over yourself, he is staring at everyone," Michael replied, his voice gruff. "That's what he's doing, observing. Like, it's why he's here."
"Who the hell is he anyway?" Kaidan asked, looking towards the stranger wh
Sentinel - Chapter ElevenCaptain, My Captain:Sentinel - Chapter Eleven in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
In a way, it all seemed so simple. They had three planets to check, three planets where they could possibly find leads on Saren and the "conduit" he was chasing.
And some planet in the Artemis Tau System to find, if she was there still, Professor Liara T'Soni.
Three choices, three urgent missions.
Like Shepard wasn't already under a lot of stress with his newfound Spectre-status.
Kaidan could see that the load was heavy on Shepard's shoulders since everything had been more or less sprung on him. He was taking it in stride though, showing just how capable he was as he ordered Joker to take off. He just hadn't decided to where yet.
It was a tough call, one that Shepard had to think about closely. All Kaidan could do was to offer some support in the only way he knew how.
Rapping his knuckles against the hard metal door, Kaidan waited for the muffled "enter" to reach his ears before palming the electronic lock, opening it. He gave Shepard a small
Sentinel - Chapter SevenSoldier-Boy:Sentinel - Chapter Seven in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
No matter how many times Kaidan went into space, he was always fascinated every time he did it. There were simply so many things to see, people to talk to.
And they did talk to a lot of people, alien and human alike.
Kaidan wasn't fuzzed, the universal translators equipped under his skin, just above his ears, helped in understanding their tongue. It didn't matter to him who he worked with, he happily co-operated with whoever he was told to work with.
He liked working with Asaris', at least those who didn't mind working with him. Some frowned over the thought of a human biotic since their skills were "created", not something that was natural to their kind like the Asaris' abilities were.
Others were fascinated by him and his abilities as well as the natural strength to his biotics, telling him that he was rivalling many of the best users in the Asari military. He didn't know how strong the Asari Commandos were, but being compared to the best there was easily understo
Sentinel - Chapter EightThe Normandy:Sentinel - Chapter Eight in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Serving for ten years within the Alliance military, both as an officer, as a marine, but first and foremost as a soldier, has taught Kaidan a lot of things.
Always trust your squad-mates. They know what they are doing.
Never look a gift-horse in the mouth. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.
Don't be a colossal idiot and decline an offer that is obviously a once in a life-time opportunity no matter how lacking you think you are for the job. The Alliance asked you for a reason so don't question them.
Of course, all the things he had learned came with a certain obvious "there is always an exception to the rules", but for the offer that Kaidan now was faced with Well, Kaidan had found himself to be a lot of things in his thirty-one year of living and ten years of serving, but being dumb enough to decline this..?
Not an option.
Especially when it was Captain Anderson, one of the first and most famous N7 graduate and soldier from the first conta
Sentinel - Chapter ThreeDecisions:Sentinel - Chapter Three in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
When Kaidan was made Sergeant and offered a commendation for his services during a routine mission gone wrong, nobody was prouder than Kaidan's father.
Kaidan was proud too, but he felt that getting a commendation for hacking a door shut so Batarian pirates couldn't come into a shuttle was a bit idiotic.
It had been Kaidan's first mission off-world and while it was a simple one, Kaidan had been excited.
He had worked hard for the chance, pushed himself constantly despite the growing pains from his implants. He had ignored them, pushed himself further, not willing to show that he was weak.
He could do this. He knew he could. And he had done it all without once using his biotic abilities in a mission or task.
When Kaidan was offered the spot, he had been a simple corporal; promoted mere two months after he had finished boot camp because of his dedication and, as his squad-leader had said, his stubbornness and integrity.
He had been transferred from the boot camp to the
Sentinel - Chapter Twenty-sevenTitle: SentinelSentinel - Chapter Twenty-seven in Sci-Fi More Like This
Author: Golddragon85/Tovaras
Game: Mass Effect
characters/pairing: Male John Shepard/Kaidan Alenko
Disclaimer: I own nothing besides my own playthrough of the games. ... Sadly, I don't make money out of it.
Welcome Home:
When the ball started rolling, it certainly rolled fast and Kaidan cursed himself for not being able to keep up as well as he wanted to.
He had two com-pads under his arm, a third he was holding and attempting to read as he quickly walked down the hallway, only barely managing to give a light nod in greeting to people who saluted him or greeted him at the same time as he was trying to jam another protein bar into his mouth without looking like a complete barbarian.
For someone who had been sitting passively on the sideline while Shepard had been out, risking his life, the Alliance certainly moved quickly when the right people were pointing their fingers at them.
Shepard had been returned to Earth thanks to Anderson a mere two week ago, almost
Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 23Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 23 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility
Title: Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility - Chapter 23 Missteps
Author: MerlindaDragon
Rating: PG-13
Game: Dragon Age: Origins
Characters: Myranda Cousland & Party, Lanaya, Sarel
Pairing: Myranda/Alistair
Disclaimer: Dragon Age and all characters from it belong to Bioware. Except for Myranda. She's mine.
Chapter 23: Missteps
"Jealousy is the fear of comparison."
~Max Frisch
The last rays of the sun were just disappearing through the trees when the group trudged back into the Dalish camp. Lanaya was sent for as Myranda went about the unhappy business of informing Athras of Danyla's fate, and the young elf woman sat in private council with the party as they explained what had occurred during their forest trek. Myranda held nothing back, telling of the Lady of the Forest, of Zathrian's deception abou
Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 29Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 29 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility
Title: Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility - Chapter 29 Redcliffe's Relief
Author: MerlindaDragon
Rating: PG-13
Game: Dragon Age: Origins
Characters: Myranda Cousland & Party, Brother Genitivi, Bann Teagan, Arlessa Isolde, Arl Eamon
Pairing: Myranda/Alistair
Disclaimer: Dragon Age and all characters from it belong to Bioware. Myranda Cousland belongs to me.
Chapter 29: Redcliffe's Relief
The group travelled back to the village of Haven, and Myranda found herself sick each of the first three mornings. She managed to keep it from everyone except Alistair, who worried more about her with each passing day. Even after she managed to keep down her morning meals, he still worried. He subsided when she promised to have Wynne examine her if she skipped her Flow the following week.
They returned to the village the w
Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 31: Part TwoShifting Paradigms - Chapter 31: Part Two in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility
Title: Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility - Chapter 31 Dwarven Politics
Author: MerlindaDragon
Rating: PG-13
Game: Dragon Age: Origins
Characters: Myranda Cousland & Party, Prince Bhelen, Lord Harrowmont, Corra, Oghren, Dulin Forender, Vartag Gavorn, Czibor, various other assorted dwarves
Pairing: Myranda/Alistair
Disclaimer: Dragon Age and all characters from it belong to Bioware. Except for Myranda. She's mine.
Chapter 31: Dwarven Politics
"Politics is almost as exciting as war, and quite as dangerous. In war you can only be killed once, but in politics many times."
~Winston Churchill
They found Wynne at the bar, engaged in a lively conversation with Corra about dwarven ales and the differences between them and their sister brews from the surface. Wynne offered them a half-pint, which both Wardens quickly r
Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 1Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 1 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility
Title: Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility - Chapter 1 Origins
Author: MerlindaDragon
Rating: PG-13
Game: Dragon Age: Origins
Characters: Myranda Cousland, Bryce Cousland, Rendon Howe, Duncan, Roland Gilmore, Nan, Baby, Eleanor Cousland, Fergus Cousland, Oriana Cousland, Oren Cousland
Disclaimer: Dragon Age and all characters from it belong to Bioware. Except for Myranda. She's mine.
Chapter 1: Origins
It is neither wealth nor splendor; but tranquility and occupation which give you happiness."
~Thomas Jefferson
Myranda Cousland pushed open one of the side doors to the Great Hall quietly so as not to interrupt the two men talking inside. She stood inside the doorway for a few moments, emerald green eyes blinking as she tried to acclimate them to the gloom of the Hall after the bright sunshine. When her eyes
Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 6Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 6 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility
Title: Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility - Chapter 6 Tainted
Author: MerlindaDragon
Rating: PG-13
Game: Dragon Age: Origins
Characters: Myranda Cousland, Alistair, Baby, Daveth, Ser Jory, Duncan, Cailan Theirin, Loghain Mac Tir
Disclaimer: Dragon Age and all characters from it belong to Bioware. Except for Myranda. She's mine.
Chapter 6: Tainted
"Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for: it is a thing to be achieved."
~William Jennings Bryant
The waning crescent moon was high overhead, grinning sarcastically down at the three recruits waiting in the old temple. Myranda knelt with Baby on one side of the central altar room away from Daveth and Jory, the latter of whom was pacing like a caged animal.
"The more I hear about this Joining, the less I like it," he mu
Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 13: Part TwoShifting Paradigms - Chapter 13: Part Two in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility
Title: Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility - Chapter 13 Falling
Author: MerlindaDragon
Rating: PG-13
Game: Dragon Age: Origins
Characters: Myranda Cousland, Alistair, Baby, Morrigan, Leliana, Sten
Disclaimer: Dragon Age and all characters from it belong to Bioware. Except for Myranda. She's mine.
Chapter 13: Falling
"It is difficult to know at what moment love begins; it is less difficult to know that it has begun."
~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
[Kingsway 14-15]
Myranda was spreading out her bedroll by the fire when she looked up suddenly, holding out her hand. "It's starting to rain," she noted. "We may need a tent after all."
"Is it?" Alistair looked up only to have a raindrop fall into his eye. "Yeah," he said, lowering his head and blinking away the rain, "I guess so."
The other Grey Warden laughed as she pulled her tent from her pack
Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 28Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 28 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility
Title: Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility - Chapter 28 The Trials of Andraste
Author: MerlindaDragon
Rating: PG-13
Game: Dragon Age: Origins
Characters: Myranda Cousland & Party, Miscellaneous spirits, Teyrn Bryce Cousland, the Guardian, Brother Genitivi
Pairing: Myranda/Alistair
Disclaimer: Dragon Age and all characters from it belong to Bioware. Except for Myranda. She's mine.
Chapter 28: The Trials of Andraste
"Let me embrace thee, sour adversity, for wise men say it is the wisest course."
~William Shakespeare
The room they walked into was nothing less than massivea huge gathering area graced with tall, Tevinter pointed arches that supported the high ceiling and were propped up by gigantic columns. Amidst these stood eight ghostly figures, four on each side of the room. That they did not a
Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 22: Part OneShifting Paradigms - Chapter 22: Part One in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility
Title: Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility - Chapter 22 The Fate of the Lycans
Author: MerlindaDragon
Rating: PG-13
Game: Dragon Age: Origins
Characters: Myranda Cousland & Party, Grand Oak, Miscellaneous werewolves (including Swiftrunner), the Lady of the Forest, Zathrian
Pairing: Myranda/Alistair
Disclaimer: Dragon Age and all characters from it belong to Bioware. Except for Myranda. She's mine.
Chapter 22: The Fate of the Lycans
They camped that night in the Grand Oak's clearing, at the tree's insistence. ("As thou hast made things right with me, I shall this night watch over thee. So sleep in peace without a care, I shall protect you from the weres.") There was some concern about having a fire, considering their host, but these fears were dismissed as a bitter wind started to blow in from th
Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 30Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 30 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility
Title: Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility - Chapter 30 The Road to Orzammar
Author: MerlindaDragon
Rating: PG-13
Game: Dragon Age: Origins
Characters: Myranda Cousland & Party, Faryn, Imrek, Orzammar guard
Pairing: Myranda/Alistair
Disclaimer: Dragon Age and all characters from it belong to Bioware. Except for Myranda. She's mine.
Chapter 30: The Road to Orzammar
It was midmorning before the party got underway again, the Grey Wardens blaming their west-facing window for their not being awake earlier. Leliana, who had gone to fetch them an hour after dawn, knew better, and saw the smirk with which Myranda gave the excuse only because she was watching for it.
They bid their goodbyes to the grateful town and its arl and set off back toward the Frostbacks. Myranda tried to console herself and justify the cont
Shifting Paradigms - Chapter 13: Part OneShifting Paradigms - Chapter 13: Part One in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility
Title: Shifting Paradigms: The Definition of Nobility - Chapter 13 Falling
Author: MerlindaDragon
Rating: PG-13
Game: Dragon Age: Origins
Characters: Myranda Cousland, Alistair, Baby, Morrigan, Leliana, Sten
Disclaimer: Dragon Age and all characters from it belong to Bioware. Except for Myranda. She's mine.
Chapter 13: Falling
"It is difficult to know at what moment love begins; it is less difficult to know that it has begun."
~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
"Don't make camp," Myranda ordered. "We're not stopping."
"What?!" Leliana cried. "You can't be serious!"
"We will rest here for a short while, then we move on. We have to get to the tower."
"But Myranda...!" the bard tried again as Baby whined. She was cut off by the Grey Warden's cold green eyes.
"I'm going to scout the road ahead. I'll be back in ten minutes... then we move." She abruptly turned the
Chimera: A Garrus / Shepard RomanceChimera: A Garrus / Shepard Romance in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
He glanced at the wall behind the large table in the back of the bar and understood what she meant. Pool He vaguely recalled watching some of the humans playing it earlier but really didn't take much notice. Now, he was sorry he didn't.
He walked over to the wall and blankly stared at all of the poles that lined it, unsure how to choose one. Shepard watched him with amusement for a couple minutes before joining him. She plucked one from the wall. Holding it in one hand about a third from the base, she balanced it, testing its weight. Satisfied, she set it on its base and leaned it against the wall. He watched her from the corner of his eye and when she walked away, he did the same thing. After selecting one he thought was acceptable, he dropped it on its base and leaned on it, watching her round up the funny looking round balls he'd seen earlier.
After racking the balls up she looked over at him, keenly aware that he was watching her every move.
"Do you
Chimera: A Garrus / Shepard RomanceCHAPTER 18: THE MORNING AFTERChimera: A Garrus / Shepard Romance in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Sera awoke to the sound of the incessant beeping of her omni-tool.
Oh god
The beeping reverberated inside her head, pulsating out a rhythm of pain. Laying there in the middle of the bed for a moment, she willed it to stop, absently muting the offending noise. A light snuffling sound from the couch caught her attention but she didn't want to move to find its source. She pinched the bridge of her nose, closing her eyes, trying to breathe through the pain in her head. Only when the pain had sufficiently subsided did she dare to open her eyes and click on her omni-tool. A message from her mother blinked at her.
Rise and shine daughter! See you in an hour!
Sera groaned in protest as she remembered agreeing to breakfast with her mother and Anderson the night before. That was before her mother ambushed her. Suddenly, the memories from the night before sporadically started to fill her brain.
The thought bolted her upright
Chimera: A Garrus / Shepard RomanceCHAPTER 20: CROSSROADSChimera: A Garrus / Shepard Romance in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Garrus and Solana watched as the trio exited the restaurant and paused just beyond the entry to exchange a few words. Once they had finished talking, Sera walked toward the shops while her mother and Anderson headed toward the Embassies. This was Garrus' chance to have a conversation with Anderson and he wasn't going to let it go to waste. Solana knew the look on her brother's face too well: his eyes pinpointed in thought, mandibles tight against his jaw and his subvocals humming the thoughts in his head. She sighed and sat back in her chair. The look in his eyes said it all and she simply nodded as he got up from the table, his intent clear. The questions she had would have to wait, but she fully intended on interrogating him the first chance she got.
"I'm sorry, Solana, but I really have to go," he apologized.
"I know," she said simply. You owe me.
He nodded, Thank
Chimera: A Garrus / Shepard RomanceCHAPTER 15: TRUCEChimera: A Garrus / Shepard Romance in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
She sank into the other overstuffed chair across from him, tucking a leg under her. Regarding him with a curious gaze, she waited for him to say something. When he didn't, she cleared her throat and called back to the bartender.
"Hey Ted! Can I get a Manhanttan? Straight up " she looked back at Garrus and huffed out, "make it a double too."
He smirked and let out a snort in disgust, recalling the foul-tasting drink from earlier.
She quirked a brow at him and challenged, "Something wrong with my drink?"
He still said nothing, shaking his head. Even though he and his father never got along, he did manage to learn one thing from him. He learned to listen. It was amazing what people would say in the discomfort of silence. He returned her gaze with an equally guarded look, unwilling to risk saying anything that would make her leave. A million thoughts raced through his head, so many questions he wanted to ask, but he wanted her to start. This wasn't something that cou
Chimera: A Garrus / Shepard Romance To give credit where credit is due, a deep and sincere debt of gratitude to MIZUTANITONY for helping me get unstuck with this Chapter oh so long ago...(he may not remember). Thank you *HUG*Chimera: A Garrus / Shepard Romance in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
He stepped into the elevator, looking at Shepard's cabin as the doors shut and wondering if he was doing the right thing. Her whisper still rang in his head and haunted him. It was no more than a few hours ago that he had agreed to her terms and now he was going behind her back, sneaking off to see what Liara had found. If Liara thought it was important enough for him to see, he couldn't ignore it, could he? Still arguing with himself, he stepped out of the elevator and rounded the corner. Standing in front of her quarters, he weighed the implications of what he was about to do. If he went in, he risked losing what little connection he and Shepard had started to re-build. If not, it might be detrimental to the mission. Things in their lives had a nasty way of popping up
Chimera: A Garrus / Shepard RomanceCHAPTER 8: ADVICEChimera: A Garrus / Shepard Romance in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Shepard was speechless. The room was deathly silent. Anderson got up and walked over to the glass case behind his enormous desk. He selected a bottle from the third shelf and two glasses. Setting them on the desk, he carefully poured the amber liquid into each of them. He picked up the glasses and walked back over to her. He offered her a glass as he sat down in the chair across from her. She gratefully accepted it, taking a generous mouthful before setting it on the table. The liquid was rich and warm, burning a trail down her throat.
"I'm sorry, Shepard," he offered weakly, studying his glass. "She blindsided me. I had no idea why she came to see me and then she dropped that bomb right before you walked in. What right did she have to use that?! I swear Shepard, if I had known that there was a leak from the inside, I would never have put you there ."
"I know," she reassured him. "What do you think we should do?"
"Well " he started slowly, thinking " it
Chimera: A Garrus / Shepard Romance*** WRITER'S NOTE : Here's the current sitch in case you need timeline clarification: Chapter 9 is concurrent to Chapter 7. While Sera Shepard, Anderson & the Dalatrass have their meeting, Hannah Shepard - having some time to kill before meeting Anderson but having no clue that Sera is already in his office - crosses paths with Garrus in a stroke of pure happenstance. At the end of Chapter 9, she leaves Garrus for her meeting with Anderson and subsequently Sera - see Chapter 8. Clear as mud? Cool. Sorry so confusing.. ***Chimera: A Garrus / Shepard Romance in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
While Sera Shepard meets with Anderson & the Dalatrass, the SSV Orizaba pulls into the bay next to the SSV Normandy.
As her ship docked at the Citadel, a lot of things weighed heavily on Hannah Shepard's mind: the Reapers, the Crucible, Earth, Sera, survival of the galaxy as a whole. She knew that a lot of things hung in the balance and time was of the essence. It was crucial that the right people be in the right places if they were goin
Chimera: A Garrus/Shepard RomanceCHAPTER 1: SHORE LEAVEChimera: A Garrus/Shepard Romance in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Silence .well, not perfect silence but a familiar and comforting one nonetheless. The hum of the ship and its crew going about their daily activities was something Shepard had come to find a certain peace in. The Alliance had given her a sense of belonging and the people she met and served with gave her a sense of family. Following in her parents footsteps gave her a sense of purpose. She never expected to come as far as she had. Still, it made her sad to know that her father would never know or see what his daughter had accomplished. Standing in the cockpit with Joker looking out the window, watching the stars streak by in the vast expanse of space, she was lost in thought
"Commander? ....Joker to Shepard .Hello?"
" ..what?" she absently answered still staring out the window.
"Oh nothing, you know, just trying to fly the ship here. Waiting for your orders while the Reapers hunt our ass and Cerberus gets away the usual."
Peeved, she turn
Chimera: A Garrus / Shepard RomanceCHAPTER 5: FRUSTRATEDChimera: A Garrus / Shepard Romance in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Garrus left Liara's office more frustrated than when he went in. He understood her predicament but that didn't mean that he had to like it far from it but there was nothing he could do about it either. He had kept his word to Shepard and never told a soul about their time together, so he couldn't very well start now.
Shit. Now what?
He could feel the tension throbbing within him. He needed to do something to get rid of it or ..not good. He headed toward the elevator. Perhaps some sim sparring would help. It had before and it had been a while since he had done any no need to really, war was a perfect substitute.
In the docking bay, Vega had set up a corner for just such a purpose. He had even hung up his old punching bag from home. As Garrus got off the elevator he could hear Vega grunting as the rattling chains that held the bag echo throughout the bay.
He rounded the corner. "Vega!"
"Hey, Scars!" Vega huffed out.
Chimera: A Garrus/Shepard RomanceCHAPTER 12: CALIBRATIONSChimera: A Garrus/Shepard Romance in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
'Bubble-head' the waiter finally brought the Jello shots to the table. He dropped the tray on the table in disdain and walked away before Joker could let another one of his scintillating wisecracks rip. If those shots weren't jello, most of them would have been dripping off the table. Each of them took a shot glass except for Mordin, who by this point, was softly snoring on the table.
Garrus paused, "Wait "
Karin looked over at the Turian, eyebrow raised.
"What kind of liquor is in this?" he asked, the Manhattan still fresh in his memory.
"Uhmmm," she thought for a moment, her mind a little hazy from the shots she already had before Garrus arrived. "I believe its tequila."
"Te what?" he stumbled over the word.
"Te key la," she repeated, emphasizing the name phonetically.
He studied the small shot glass. It was cold to the touch, as he expected. He brought it to his nose and sniffed. It didn't really smell like anything, at least
Chronicle~ Chapter 10Chronicle~ Chapter 10 in Settings More Like This
Chapter Ten:
"Alright just act casual and we'll go talk to Aria," Nova muttered as the two fugitives got out of the shuttle. Kalia looked around at the back space station and shook her head. The station resembles a jellyfish she saw back on Earth but brown. To say this place was dirty would be an understatement. Batarians and Vorcha were lurking in the corners watching the two as they walked towards the hangar doors.
Kalia glared at the Batarians. They looked amused by the small human girl and the Asari. Nova kept her head high as they passed through the hangar doors. There was a long hallway that had windows on one side leading out to the docks for ships. Kalia looked out at them in amazement; she had seen huge Alliance dreadnots before but nothing that big. Nova stood beside the human as Kalias grip tightened on the back she wore on her shoulder.
'There was blood everywhere. People were screaming as they ran in terror as the slave ships landed. Gunfire rang out throughout the settlem
Chronicle~ Chapter OneChronicle~ Chapter One in Settings More Like This
"Be home before dusk Kalia, I don't like the way these skies look today," Mum called after me as I tugged on my father's old gray Alliance jacket. I smirked as I slipped out the door of our bungalow without saying a thing back to her-
At the time I didn't realize how much I would come to regret this.
The old autumn air greeted me with a chill as the leaves dance around my worn combat boots. I looked around at the small settlement we lived in, at the long steel bungalows, the people going about their daily priorities, and at the Alliance flag that stood high in the middle of it all. Mindoir was originally set up to look like earth so that the Alliance pilots that came here before their first mission wouldn't feel so lost in the planet's vast gray skies. But about fifty years into the project the scientist noticed that the chemicals they placed in the core of the planet were affecting the people more th
Chronicle~ Chapter FiveChronicle~ Chapter Five in Settings More Like This
Chapter Five:
Alexander and I were sitting on our bunks in silence. My head was buried in a book I stole on biotics and how humans can control the dark energy. The book was written by a Conatix scientist which gave an extremely biased opinion on everything. Most of the words written on these pages were anti-alien political slurs. It expanded that biotics were something the Alliance should real in their biotics and use them for genetic experimentation as opposed to training them how to shoot a gun.
I shook my head casting the book to the side. Biotics didn't chose to be born this way, we had no control over our genetics. But to be called 'threats to humanity's very existence' and 'puppets for the Alien forces in human bodies' made my blood run cold. The book made me wonder how I would be taken in society, would people instantly fear me or despise me as much as Dr. Starichs did. I leaned back and held my hands in front of my face as they started to glow faintly in the dim lighting of the
Chronicle~ Chapter TwoChronicle~ Chapter Two in Settings More Like This
Chapter 2:
My hip rested on the door frame as I stood there with my arms folded over my chest looking at my mother. I was waiting for the verdict that would decide my fate for the rest of my childhood existence. Mum was leaning on the counter over the sink her eyes focused down on the drain then slowly she looked up out the window to the darkness. Her reflection bounced off the glass showing me the disappointment that was radiating in her eyes.
"First, you trespass on an Alliance ship, then you break Thoma-"
"Louis," I corrected her earning myself an angry glare.
"Kalia you don't talk now, this is my time to talk," She yelled, "then you broke that boys arm without even trying! When will it be enough?! When will you learn how to control it?!" There was a vein that protruded in my mother's forehead every time she got annoyed, it was showing now.
I shifted my weight from one foot to another moving away from the safety of the door frame, "I went to go get a book today to learn h
Chronicle~ 13Chronicle~ 13 in Settings More Like This
Chapter 13:
Kalia stood there staring into eyes she hadn't seen in almost twelve years. The memory of Straichs telling her of Alexanders death flashed through her mind. She remembered how hallow she felt, how she made herself into a hollow creature from that day on. She felt betrayed, that the last ten years were nothing but a lie.
Alexanders deep hazel eyes started back into her light green eyes and there was silence among the two for a moment. Alexander ran forward and threw his arms around Kalia pulling her to his chest nearly crushing her form. Bitterly Kalia pushed him away and glared at him with pure hatred in her eyes.
"You bastard! You're suppose to be dead!" Kalia screamed as her biotics flared violently.
Alexander looked at her confused and tried to collect his thoughts and calm her at the same time, "Kalia, what are you talking about?"
Kalia shook her bitterly and nodded to Liara, "We'll talk later I just want to get her out of here."
Liara stood there quietly like Kaidan an
Chronicle~ Chapter EightChronicle~ Chapter Eight in Profiles More Like This
Ok so from this point on the story is going to be in third person. I'm sorry if its confusing at first but from now on the story jumps from person to person so it would be much easier to carry out the story like this. Again Also I'm incorporating more people into the story. I'm sorry for any confusion!
Chapter Eight:
"Well is he?!" Kalia screamed as her biotics flared. There was an eery silence hanging in the room as she stood staring into the eyes of Dr. Straichs. His eyes held nothing but hatred for the girl, hatred for what she was and what she stood for. She was a weapon, something he was trying the break yet he couldn't.
Dr. Straichs reached for the data pad that was lying on his work desk. He picked it up and stared at the orange hologram screen as words moved a crossed it. Only hours earlier Straichs got the reports about the attack but he never planned to tell Kalia. He knew the two were close and the reaction towards this could be catastrophic. Smirking Straichs lo
Chronicle~ Chapter ThreeChronicle~ Chapter Three in Settings More Like This
Chapter 3:
Head, throbbing uncontrollably as a high pitched buzz stung my ear. It felt like it had been beaten by a krogan rapidly. Every rib in my abdomen felt shattered, broken, and nonexistent. Around me voices were screaming as gunshots rang out above my head. My eyes wouldn't open no matter how hard I tried. There was blood everywhere. I could feel it on my clothes, in my hair, and on my face. It smelt of smelted metal, disparity, and pain. My mouth, once my greatest weapon, opened only to feel humid air rush into my lungs. It was as if my mind disconnected itself from my body, I felt alienated from myself.
Before I could even scream for help for anyone to come and save me I felt myself being hoisted into the air. Whether or not someone was carrying me or if it was by my own doing my almost lifeless corpse was being carried off towards the roaring of an engine. My eyes couldnt open. I could barely feel the arms that were lifting my limp body out of the mass grave. The arms curled
Chronicle~ Chapter 11Chronicle~ Chapter 11 in Settings More Like This
Chapter 11:
Kalia pulled on the black body suit she stole from the merchant and smirked. It was tight that was for sure but it worked with her biotics. Kalia ran a hand through her slightly damp hair as she walked around in the small apartment. Nova found the empty apartment and they were holding up there until they could get a place of their own. The space was small and cramped but it was a roof over their heads and it was warm. Kalia pulled on her black gloves and looked around the bare apartment. The only piece of furniture in the apartment was a huge couch.
Nova spent the night before researching their target. They were to go after a CEO that fled to Omega to escape assassins. It was Kalia's job to sneak into one of his parties and seduce him then when it was dark the two were to kill him. Kalia thought the job would be quick easy and clean but Nova had to spend hours researching it.
Kalia leaned on the wall as she shook her head, "Nova the more you worry about this the more you're
Chronicle~ Chapter SixChronicle~ Chapter Six in Settings More Like This
Sorry everyone this chapter is pretty quick. Honestly I was having bad writers block and this is what comes out of it.
Chapter Seven will be out by Sunday!
Chapter Six:
-Two Years Later-
"You better come back in one piece or I'll kill you myself," I murmured as I hugged Alexander as tightly as I could.
He smiled as he hugged me back tucking his head into the crook of my neck. We stood there for a few moments before Alexander pulled away and stood before me smiling. He was dressed in Alliance blues and looked serious for once. His dog tags were gleaming in the evening sunlight. Alexander had to cut his hair a bit shorter so it was regulation and he spent the whole morning shinning his boots.
For the past week Alexander and I didn't talk much. He was preparing for being shipped off to Elysium to meet up with the rest of his squad who were all on shore leave. It was the first time Hanna and I saw him in about six months and he was only home for about three weeks. Hanna and I
Chronicle: 26Chronicle: 26 in Settings More Like This
Chapter 26:
~One Year Later~
Kalia was busy chopping carrots in the kitchen when the door slipped open and the pitter patter of tiny feet came running in. She placed the knife on the counter as a smirk formed on her face. She heard the footsteps getting close and she turned levitating Zayn in the air. The little boy looked to be three but in reality he was a bit over a year old. His light hair was replaced with black and it was shaggy covering his left eye. He laughed as Kalia rolled him in a cocoon of blue light purple biotic energy. Liara wasn't far behind baby bag full of clothes hanging over one shoulder. Liara looked exhausted as she leaned against the kitchen island.
"He's gotten so big!" Kalia laughed as she lowered Zayn to the ground. Zayn reached up stealing a carrot then ran away towards the living room.
"A year will do wonders, Happy Birthday Kalia," Liara said as she removed a lig
Spoilt MorningI'd like to wish everyone a happy valentine's day. I know it's late but I'm not usually one for this day, but my love for Garrus and FemShep would not be held back. After the Reapers (Destroy option) Baby! Hope you like it.Spoilt Morning in Short Stories More Like This
Disclaimer: I do not own Mass Effect, this belongs to Bioware. Please enjoy.
Garrus sat on the couch of their apartment looking at the terminal screen in front of him, his mandibles tight against his mouth as a growl slowly stirred in his chest. Shepard was resting in their bed, for which Garrus was thankful for. Shepard had had a really bad day; first off the Council had made her stand on her feet for hours, prodding her with questions about what happened on the Citadel. She could barely remember much apart from a small voice talking to her and the fear of not being able to see him again. Then she had to attend negotiations to uphold the treaties she had obtained through the war, most of it was about the fleets helped each other out with rebuilding and helping the
When everything is wrong you are right chapter 18Disclaimer: I do not own Mass Effect, this belongs to Bioware. Please enjoy.When everything is wrong you are right chapter 18 in Short Stories More Like This
A/N: I'm so sorry for the late update. Please forgive me but I needed some time to recharge and think about this chapter. Didn't help that in between that recharge I got major writer's block, and Thanks to Spyke 1985 for the inspiration for this. But still here it is and I hope you enjoy it.
Chapter 18: Inky black shadows.
Burning trees and falling leaves, wind blew softly against her skin as the smell of burning foliage stung her nose. Shepard stood as she gazed at the burning forest before her; everything looked so dead she wondered how the leafless trees and shrivelled grass still bore some semblance of life. Then appearing from the forest a small boy ran through the burnt out trees, his white hoodie covered in black soot while small rips doted along the edges. Shepard narrowed her eyes, she recognised the boy but couldn't place him but that didn't stop her from trying to run after the boy. As she ran after
Fox Shadow chapter 10Disclaimer: I do not own Mass Effect, this belongs to Bioware. Please enjoy.Fox Shadow chapter 10 in Short Stories More Like This
Chapter 10:
"Gross…Why am I even down here?" Vixen spoke to herself as she shook her foot to get rid of the glowing green slime that now clung to her boot. The Keeper tunnels weren't her favourite place but they got you through the Citadel without bumping into people every five seconds. The smell was churned her stomach with each breath she took, the tunnel stank of rotting eggs and what she suspected was Krogan vomit but she continued on. Vixen bit her lip as she thought back to what she said to Anderson, she hated speaking to him like he didn't matter but when she received a message saying she needed to be somewhere in a short amount of time, she made her mission not to be late. Kaidan had sent her a message saying to meet them at the Presidium tower for the council meeting in a few hours, Vixen slightly wondered how Kaidan got her address but she knew he might have got it from And
When everything is wrong, you are right chapter 17Disclaimer: I do not own Mass Effect, this belongs to Bioware. Please enjoy.When everything is wrong, you are right chapter 17 in Short Stories More Like This
Chapter 17: Sneaky Doctors.
Chakwas smiled as she watched Garrus walked past the med-bay window with Shepard slung over his shoulder. She was happy to see the Commander happy, truly happy, after so long. She remembered as she watched Shepard rise through the ranks of the Alliance that even though Shepard wore a smile, there was a dark sadness in her eyes that seem to shadow that smile. For a while Chakwas didn't think that anything would take away that shadow but as she observed Shepard's interaction with Garrus aboard the SR1 all those years ago, Chakwas started to see a light in Shepard's eyes. To see them now, as people who loved each other, was enough to warm her old bones.
Chakwas turned her attention back to the data of Shepard's scan. After transferring the data to a data pad for easy use, the information scrolled slowly across her screen while diagrams spun slowly in place. Before she read deeply into
When everything is wrong, you are right chapter 5Disclaimer: I do not own Mass Effect, this belongs to Bioware. Please enjoy.When everything is wrong, you are right chapter 5 in Short Stories More Like This
Chapter 5: Memories.
Eden Prime. A beautiful planet filled with exotic plants and weird animals. But it was also one of the toughest places to live and if you wanted to live there you invited danger at your doorstep. The colony of Eden Prime had first been attacked by Seran and the Geth over two years ago and had survived because Shepard and her team were there to sway the fighting away from the escaping colonists. From reports it took the colony ages to turn back to normal although some did go to planets like Horizon to start anew. Now Eden Prime was being pledged with Cerberus troops trying to get at a Prothean that could turn the tide of this war. Shepard was more than surprised to find that Cerberus managed to find a living Prothean; she remembered all the pods on Ilos were dead because of lack of power. She wondered if this one had its own power source of some kind, Shepard wondered why this planet most o
Fox Shadow Chapter 9Disclaimer: I do not own Mass Effect, this belongs to Bioware. Please enjoy.Fox Shadow Chapter 9 in Short Stories More Like This
Chapter 9: Blue Haze.
Vixen stared out the hospital room window, it looked busier than ever since she had been away but then again the Citadel was always growing. Nihlus lay in the hospital bed with more tubes and wires covering his body. Vixen felt guilty; if only she had been faster she kept on thinking. She could have been the one to take the bullet or at least see who shot him. Vixen gripped his hand tighter as she swallowed the lump that formed in her throat. Anderson had told Vixen to meet them at Udina's office; he was apparently already shouting for an audience with the council and already trying to get Saren's title stripped away. That man really worked fast. Vixen couldn't deny that Udina did what he could for Humanity but she couldn't agree with his methods or the man himself.
She had sent a message to Saren as soon as the Normandy docked and so far he hadn't answered her back, she wondered if he wa
Fox Shadow chapter 12Disclaimer: I do not own Mass Effect, this belongs to Bioware. Please enjoy.Fox Shadow chapter 12 in Short Stories More Like This
Chapter 12: Watch this ass
The Wards of the Citadel were like another dimension to that of the Presidium. Where the Presidium was bright and clean with cheerful muted sounds of flowing water and light conversations, the Wards were dark and dirty. No matter where you looked people and other aliens gathered in large crowds while the air roared with shouts and laughter. The air was ripe with sweat and overcooked food but it still smelt better than the Keeper tunnels, the transits flying overhead adding to the roaring sounds of the wards. In the distance were the huge windows that looked out onto the rest of the Citadel arms, form the Presidium you wouldn't have been able to see them unless you looked directly into the blinding artificial sun but here in the dark and grime of the wards the lights of small buildings and…life, shone like stars in the smooth darkness of space. Vixen was always amazed by the li
When everything is wrong, you are right chapter 14Disclaimer: I do not own Mass Effect, this belongs to Bioware. Please enjoy.When everything is wrong, you are right chapter 14 in Short Stories More Like This
Chapter 14: Mothers, Daughters and even more Missions.
Falere struggled against Shepard's hold, her arms outstretched towards Rila as if trying to pull the invisible strings of fate to pull her away from certain death. Shepard felt her chest tighten as Falere's pleading voice screamed towards her sister.
"Rila!" Falere called but Shepard's arm restrained the young Asari. Torturous screeches rang throughout the grand hall, the sounds bouncing off the hallowed walls as the recent Reaper creations (that Shepard decided to name Banshees) slide down the walls as if it was slime dripping or seeping from the walls. The Banshees were the most disturbing creations the Reapers had made yet, Asari Ardat-Yakshi turned into spindly legged-potbellied- wire ridden zombies. Falere pulled hard and Shepard saw the tears streaming down her cheeks but it didn't matter a bomb was going to explode with so much force the Normandy co
Fox Shadow chapter 8Disclaimer: I do not own Mass Effect, this belongs to Bioware. Please enjoy.Fox Shadow chapter 8 in Short Stories More Like This
Chapter 8: Reach.
Flesh being torn from the bone. Wires wrapping round tissue and fat. Gears grinding and roaring monsters. Choking darkness and burning heat. Numbing pain and inky shadows. Haunting images plastering her eyes, screams of fear filled her ears.
Vixen woke with a start; her heart pounding in her chest, sweat slid down her face and back as her took deep calming breaths. Her eyes darting about as dark smudged images dotted her vision. She wasn't on Eden Prime anymore; the wind that rushed through her hair was no longer blowing. The soft touch of grass didn't greet her feet as she walked along the fertile land. The scent and sounds of gun fire left her. No this room had dense sterile air, the taste of antiseptic tingled down her tongue. Beeping drummed against her ears and something hard could be felt against her back. Vixen swallowed a lump that grew in her throat as the images became sharper with
Fox Shadow Chapter 5Disclaimer: I do not own Mass Effect, this belongs to Bioware. Please enjoy.Fox Shadow Chapter 5 in Short Stories More Like This
Chapter 5: Xenophobic idiots.
"Shepard, do you realise that you attacked an unarmed officer" Anderson's voice boomed throughout the captain's cabin. The small room only seemed to have enough space for a double bed, a sofa and a desk. On one side there was a window looking out towards the endless black. Shepard sat, straight backed, on the sofa as Anderson paced the full short length of the room. His hands were clasped tightly behind his back but Vixen saw the slight twitch his fingers had. If Anderson was capable of hitting people for disobedience then he was holding back for her sake. But Vixen knew more than likely that Anderson had his hands clasped behind his back so that he didn't have them flying all over the place and scolding her like she was his own daughter. Anderson knew the most about Vixen and helped her through the Alliance; even helped her get to N7, and the two had become something more of a fa
Under Better Circumstances 1 - CoincidenceTitle: Under Better Circumstances - Chapter 1: CoincidenceUnder Better Circumstances 1 - Coincidence in Romance More Like This
Author: xRebel666x
Game: Mass Effect
Characters/Pairing: Commander Nevada Shepard (femShep) and James Vega
Chapter 1 Coincidence
"You're coming with me to Earth. Now," Admiral Anderson commanded, walking proudly in his Alliance blues. With his entourage following closely behind him, he stood out amongst the crowd of degenerates in Omega. A tall and brawny soldier with blood dripping from his Mohawk also accompanied him on his way to the docking bay.
"Forget it. There's nothing for me there," Lieutenant James Vega barked.
"I've got something for you. Something you haven't had before."
"Just throw me in the goddamned brig and be done with it!"
"You're not far off, Lieutenant," the Admiral shot back from the airlock of the SR-2, "Only you'll be guarding the brig."
Vega followed Anderson aboard and was immediately mesmerized by the Normandy's inte
Impossibilities Chapter 2: Isolated MotherTitle: Impossibilities - Chapter 2 - Isolated MotherImpossibilities Chapter 2: Isolated Mother in Romance More Like This
Author: xRebel666x
Game: Mass Effect
Characters/Pairing: Commander Reblicah Shepard (femShep) and Garrus Vakarian
Chapter 2 Isolated Mother
Typically Commander Shepard had no difficulty in being brave. She fought every kind of enemy on the battlefield and stood victoriously after each round. Yet today she found herself standing hesitantly in front of the doors to the main battery. She had a different battle to overcome the overwhelming strain of being separated from her bondmate.
It had been six months since she last saw Garrus. Six months held in captivity at the Detention Center at Alliance headquarters and spending every day and night aching for the warmth of his hand. Being taken away from him so shortly after the news of her pregnancy intensified the isolation and created a gapping chasm within her heart. Claiming the bulge from her stomach was from her lack of military lifestyle. For t
Under Better Circumstances 10 - Rousing IntentionsTitle: Under Better Circumstances - Chapter 10: Rousing IntentionsUnder Better Circumstances 10 - Rousing Intentions in Romance More Like This
Author: xRebel666x
Game: Mass Effect
Characters/Pairing: Commander Nevada Shepard (femShep) and James Vega
Chapter 10 - Rousing Intentions
The Lieutenant was slowly reclaiming his bearings, flexing his arms and stretching the muscles used from the previous night's encounter. As he continued his morning ritual, he tossed around and noticed someone was no longer lying beside him. Propping himself up, he groggily looked for the womanly figure. James quickly discovered his commanding officer sitting at the foot of the bed, wearing nothing more than his grey Special Forces shirt and her black lace panties.
Vega enjoyed the sight of Nevada Shepard in his shirt, especially since it was large enough to droop over her shoulder and reveal the top of her arm. He marveled at the difference in their sizes yet knew he could never base someone on looks alone. Even though she was more than half his size, she sti
Xora Patrone - Chapter 11Title: Xora Patrone - Chapter 11: Winner Takes AllXora Patrone - Chapter 11 in Romance More Like This
Author: xRebel666x
Game: Mass Effect
Characters/Pairing: All Original Characters - Xora Patrone(female human), Lyrik Castius(male turian), Josie Madeen(female human), Hal'Jurgar(male quarian), Tren and Kero(male krogans).
Chapter 11: Winner Takes All
November 18th, 2185
The pungent stench of various alcohols perfumed the cargo hold. The poker table had stacks of gaming chips and playing cards scattered across. Grey streams of smoke danced from the cigarettes perched on the ashtrays sitting in front of the circle of players. Their ghostly mist lifted towards the paneled ceiling and created a comforting haze in the atmosphere. The loud laughter resonated throughout the ship, validating another successful poker night. Everyone on my crew was joking around and having a grand time the way poker ought to be played.
"And then she said, 'That explains why I couldn't sleep right for the next week,'" Josie chuckled
Under Better Circumstances 7 - PiecesTitle: Under Better Circumstances - Chapter 7: PiecesUnder Better Circumstances 7 - Pieces in Romance More Like This
Author: xRebel666x
Game: Mass Effect
Characters/Pairing: Commander Nevada Shepard (femShep) and James Vega
Chapter 7 Pieces
"Maybe Kaidan is right, maybe I need to make the most of things while I still can," Shepard muttered under her breath, waiting for the elevator so she could return to her quarters. "No. Protocol comes first. Duty before personal engagements that's how it has been and how it must continue."
The elevator opened and she stepped in, slapping the button to her level. She leaned against the corner and crossed her arms, speculating, "But time is short the world is at war maybe I can bend the rules a little I think I think he's getting to me."
Without a second thought, she brought her fingers to her lips. Remembering how James Vega's moist lips brushed against hers and how dangerously close he came to sealing their distance. She could still feel t
Under Better Circumstances 4 - Brewing TroubleTitle: Under Better Circumstances - Chapter 4: Brewing TroubleUnder Better Circumstances 4 - Brewing Trouble in Romance More Like This
Author: xRebel666x
Game: Mass Effect
Characters/Pairing: Commander Nevada Shepard (femShep) and James Vega
Chapter 4: Brewing Trouble
Nevada Shepard was in disbelief, the Reapers finally hit Earth. All the time she spent dwelling on their arrival still didn't prepare her for their invasion. One by one, their massive structures towered over the cities, wiping out everything in their path. She was going to need an army one hell of an army and quickly. The longer she took, the more lives were lost to those machines.
The moment she escaped, it was back to work for the reappointed Commander. She was back where she belonged commanding on the Systems Alliance's stealth starship. Pacing down the halls of the updated SR-2, she enjoyed the comforting hum of the Normandy's engines. It helped dull out the visions scarred from departing Earth. Leaving A
Under Better Circumstances 3 - At A Moments NoticeTitle: Under Better Circumstances - Chapter 3: At A Moment's NoticeUnder Better Circumstances 3 - At A Moments Notice in Romance More Like This
Author: xRebel666x
Game: Mass Effect
Characters/Pairing: Commander Nevada Shepard (femShep) and James Vega
Chapter 3 - At A Moment's Notice
The air was tense within the walls of Alliance Headquarters. Everyone was frantically running around, rushing to their destinations and searching for answers. Chaos was brewing outside the safety of the Alliance defenses and only one person could help make any sense of it.
Brushing past his fellow soldiers, Lieutenant James Vega navigated his way through the detention center. His orders were clear retrieve Nevada Shepard. As he quickly entered the room Shepard spent the past few months in, he noticed how she was quietly looking out the window. Freedom was right on the other side of the glass, she could see it but it was outside of her grasp.
"Commander," he saluted.
She turned aro
Under Better Circumstances 2 - After Hours VisitorTitle: Under Better Circumstances - Chapter 2: After Hours VisitorUnder Better Circumstances 2 - After Hours Visitor in Romance More Like This
Author: xRebel666x
Game: Mass Effect
Characters/Pairing: Commander Nevada Shepard (femShep) and James Vega
Chapter 2 - After Hours Visitor
The lights in the Detention Center were dimmed and the halls were quiet. Apart from a couple of Alliance soldiers doing their rounds around the building, Nevada Shepard was alone. Locked in her room night after night, she had nothing to do but patiently wait for morning to break over the horizon. Every night the silence haunted her, tugging on the verge of her sanity. The longer she waited for her trial, the more her isolation crept into the depths of her mind. She was a prisoner restricted to an empty cell where her only company was her memories.
Lying down on the bed, her eyes welled up. She wanted nothing more than to spend another night on the hard mattress in her quarters aboard the Normandy. It may have been unp
Under Better Circumstances 6 Arrogance-AdmittanceTitle: Under Better Circumstances - Chapter 6: Arrogance Begets AdmittanceUnder Better Circumstances 6 Arrogance-Admittance in Romance More Like This
Author: xRebel666x
Game: Mass Effect
Characters/Pairing: Commander Nevada Shepard (femShep) and James Vega
Chapter 6 Arrogance Begets Admittance
The echoes of gunfire drowned the battlefield. Nevada Shepard dashed to cover in a freshly exposed room from a rocket blast. The building was barely standing after the ambush from Cerberus operatives. The pillars were creaking and the walls were crumbling apart but it was her only option. Hunched under the window opening, she signaled Major Alenko and Lieutenant Vega to move forward. She pulled out the M-98 Widow and surveyed the surroundings, counting the remaining operatives.
As she commanded her squadmates to take out the three Cerberus soldiers, she noticed a bright flash through the scope. A rocket soared directly towards her location. Without any hesitation, she ducked down and covered her he
Under Better Circumstances 11 - BittersweetTitle: Under Better Circumstances - Chapter 11: Bittersweet ConfessionsUnder Better Circumstances 11 - Bittersweet in Romance More Like This
Author: xRebel666x
Game: Mass Effect
Characters/Pairing: Commander Nevada Shepard (femShep) and James Vega
Chapter 11 - Bittersweet Confessions
Nevada Shepard leaned up against the walls of the elevator as she proceeded towards the CIC. Contemplating the request she received from Kaidan. The Major asked her to accompany him to lunch on the Citadel. Seemed like a harmless invitation but she couldn't shake the nagging thought that there was something more behind their rendezvous.
As she waltzed out of the elevator, Specialist Traynor approached the Commander with a new message, "Shepard, I received a notice from your Lieutenant."
"What does he want?"
"He wanted to know if you'll be joining him for his tattoo session."
She ran her fingers through her long brown hair, scratching her scalp in distress. She completely forgot that he was getting the N7 logo inked
Love, Blood and Tears: Chapter 7Love, Blood & TearsLove, Blood and Tears: Chapter 7 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Chapter 7:
Shepard took up a holo conference with the Illusive Man. Shepard was upset to discover that he lured the Collectors to the colony because he was not willing to wait any longer for them to strike. Bastard! He assured Shepard that no other colonies would be sacrificed and that he would find a way for them to successfully pass through the Omega 4 relay; the gateway used by the Collectors. No other ship had gone through the relay and return safely. The Illusive Man encouraged Shepard to continue building her team and gave her three more dossiers.
Shepard set a course for Illium; two of her candidates were at that location. Kill two birds with one stone.
They docked at Nos Astra and Shepard didn't waste any time heading out, Garrus and Jack in tow. As they left the docking bay they were approached by a concierge. "Welcome to Nos Astra Commander Shepard. We've
Love, Blood and Tears: Chapter 6Love, Blood & TearsLove, Blood and Tears: Chapter 6 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Chapter 6:
Shepard chose Garrus and Jack as her squad mates for the mission on Horizon. They had to move fast; the Collectors had started moving colonists onto their ship. "We've got to hit them hard! Stop them before they get away," said Shepard.
They fought through the Collectors, pushing their way further into the colony. They came across an unharmed colonist, a mechanic named Delan. "You need to get the laser towers operational! It's our only chance!" he told Shepard.
They fought their way to the tower, through a mass attack of husks. These husks weren't made here, the Collectors brought them with them. What is going on?! Shepard and her squad finally made it to the tower and got it online but the lasers needed time to charge. "Damn it! We've got to defend this position!" They held off swarm after swarm. C'mon! How long does this thing take to warm up?!
After what seemed like
Love, Blood and Tears: Chapter 43Love, Blood & TearsLove, Blood and Tears: Chapter 43 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Chapter 43:
Wow, an actual easy mission this time, Shepard thought as she entered the geth's virtual world alone.
Geth fighter squadrons had targeted quarian liveships with attacks that would have a serious impact on their fleet. Shepard, along with the help of Legion and Garrus, had gone to the Geth Comm Hub on Rannoch to disable the server controlling the geth fighters.
Shepard followed the virtual path, disrupting the Reaper code infections along the way and making it to her first data cluster. She cleared out the cluster and then a new path was revealed that led her to the next cluster. She repeated this pattern a few more times until she had finally cleared out all infections. Then she made her way to the access point to exit the virtual world and back to reality where her squad was waiting for her.
Shepard was curious to see what her actions had done as she exited the virtual chamber. Sudd
Love, Blood and Tears: Chapter 1Love, Blood & TearsLove, Blood and Tears: Chapter 1 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Chapter 1:
*Note: Chapter 1 and 2 are more like an extended prologue than anything. I cover a lot of ground in the first two chapters. The story slows down after that. The first two chapters basically cover little aspects that you need to know as the story progesses. Please don't let the first two chapter deter you from reading on. Thank you!
"I'm proud of you kid," said Anderson.
"Just remember you were a human before you were a Spectre, you represent all of humanity with your actions," said Udina.
"I won't let you down," said Shepard confidently.
Anderson stepping down and giving Shepard the Normandy? It didn't feel right to her. Pushing papers wasn't his thing but he wanted to give her every chance to succeed in this mission. She knew how much this meant to him and she wasn't going to let
Love, Blood and Tears: Chapter 2Love, Blood & TearsLove, Blood and Tears: Chapter 2 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Chapter 2:
*Note: Chapter 2, along with the first chapter, are more like an extended prologue than anything. I cover a lot of ground in these first two chapters. The story slows down after that. The first two chapters cover little things that I wanted the readers to know as the story progesses since some aspects will tie into later chapters. Please don't let the first two chapter deter you from reading on. Thank you!
Not like this! Shepard thought as her body floated through space; her body growing cold. No! No! No! Visions of Garrus flooded her mind, knowing she had only seconds left. Damn it! This was it. I love you Garrus
A memorial service was held for her a couple weeks later on the Citadel. Garrus despised being on the Citadel anymore everyone had gone on with their lives like nothing
Love, Blood and Tears: Chapter 8Love, Blood & TearsLove, Blood and Tears: Chapter 8 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Chapter 8:
Shepard woke up with a smile on her face; the events from the night before still fresh in her mind. How it felt when Garrus caressed her face, how gentle he was. She was excited now confident that Garrus felt something for her. I can't call him out, but I can be more forward try to draw him out! She no longer feared being rejected by him. He feels something for me I have to find out what.
It was 0600 and both Thane and Samara arrived right on the dot. Shepard greeted them both and gave them a tour of the ship. After the tour was over, Shepard headed to the mess hall to grab some breakfast.
She sat down at one of the tables with her breakfast and her last outstanding dossier. She began reading:
Tali'Zorah vas Neema
-Expert in combat tech, systems hacking.
- Strong engineering background, familiar with Normandy.
Formerly listed as Tali'Zorah nar Rayy
Love, Blood and Tears: Chapter 5Love, Blood & TearsLove, Blood and Tears: Chapter 5 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Chapter 5:
Shepard laid in her bed, willing herself to fall asleep. She looked over at her clock 0100. She abandoned all hope of sleeping and decided to go grab some coffee and get some paperwork done.
Her paperwork didn't take as long as she thought and now she was even more awake because of the coffee. She headed to the observation room. She sat there, looking out at the stars. For a moment, the galaxy seemed so peaceful.
Jack wasn't one to sleep much either. She made her way to the observation room and saw Shepard sitting there.
"Hey," said Jack as she sat down on the couch.
"Hey there, couldn't sleep either, huh?"
"No, I don't sleep much. I'm used to it."
They sat there for awhile without saying another word just staring out at the stars.
"It's beautiful, isn't it? Almost feels as though everything is right in the galaxy," said Shepard, finally breaking th
Love, Blood and Tears: Chapter 45Love, Blood & TearsLove, Blood and Tears: Chapter 45 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Chapter 45:
Garrus stared into her eyes amazed at the beautiful woman in front of him. He took her hand in his and led them over to the bed. Along the way he noticed the freshly used syringe on the desk - she had already taken her serum. Garrus sat down in the center of the bed and guided Shepard to sit down in front of him; cross-legged and facing him. He took off his shirt and then scooted his body closer to her; intertwining his legs with hers. He wrapped one arm around her waist and placed his other hand over her heart. She embraced him the same way in return.
"Take deep breaths and let go of any tension," he said.
She did as he instructed and locked eyes with him as she did so.
"Allow the energy to build and flow between us," he said softly as his blue eyes seemed to be looking into the depths of her soul. "Take another deep breath and as you exhale - let go of any anger, any resentment, any negative feeling you may
Love, Blood and Tears: Chapter 4Love, Blood & TearsLove, Blood and Tears: Chapter 4 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Chapter 4:
It didn't take long for Shepard to bring Garrus up to speed. She died, she was brought back to life, she found him and he's been with her every step of the way since. Most of Garrus' questions had to do with Cerberus' intentions. Shepard didn't really have answers she didn't know what was going on herself and she didn't like working for them. She was using it to her advantage though and Garrus knew that no matter what, he could always trust Shepard.
"What about you?" she asked. "How did you end up on Omega?"
Garrus' story was much longer than hers had been. He talked about her death, her funeral
"It was hell Shepard. Without you, there was no one left to take on the Reapers; nobody saw it as a real threat. It was frustrating! I tried, believe me I tried Shepard! I ended up getting so angry that I just couldn't take being on the Citadel anymore.
Love, Blood and Tears: Chapter 44Love, Blood & TearsLove, Blood and Tears: Chapter 44 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Chapter 44:
The Normandy docked to the Citadel as Shepard walked by the memorial wall. The people they had lost Ashley, Kelly, Jacob, Thane she continued to scan over the rest of the names one was missing. Why wasn't it on the wall? She took the elevator down a level to speak with the one put in charge of creating the name plaques. She stepped off the elevator and found him getting ready for his day of leave on the Citadel.
"Johnson!" she shouted. "I need to speak with you for a minute."
He nodded as he jogged over to her, "Commander?"
"The name plaque for Legion are you still working on it?"
"I didn't think it would get one, ma'am."
"Why is that?" she asked as she did her best to remain calm.
"Uh it was a geth not alive - just a synthetic. I didn't think we made plaques for "
"He was a loyal member of this crew and a friend. He sacrificed his life to help his people, who are
ME: All the Things That I've Done Ch.23Chapter 23 – Live to Fight Another DayME: All the Things That I've Done Ch.23 in Sci-Fi More Like This
Time seemed to freeze while Mira took the leap from the crumbling ledge toward the Normandy. Joker's eyes widened as he lowered the rifle and reached out a hand to her. The edge of the hatch decking hit her forcefully in the chest, knocking the wind out of her even through the armor. Attempting to take a breath in, she felt Joker's strong grip haul her up into the docking hatch and smack the door closed. Sparkles were flashing in her vision but she did not have time to worry about passing out. Steeling herself, she hustled after the pilot, followed by Thane. Garrus immediately went down to the weapons room. Looking at the countdown on her omnitool, she bit her lower lip and watched Joker steer the Normandy away from the Collector base.
Mira heard the Normandy scream as it sped through the wreckage of other unfortunate ships to the mass relay. Her grip on Joker's chair was tight and she had to loosen it as her han
ME: All the Things Ch.20Chapter 20 – Can't BreatheME: All the Things Ch.20 in Sci-Fi More Like This
A/N: Okay, the dreaded Horizon confrontation but….here is my version. Still some anger and trust issues in there but not horrendous.
Kaidan spotted the dark mass flying down on the colony and used the scope to check it out. His gut instinct warned him of danger and immediately yelled at Lilith to get the people into shelter. Raising his rifle again, Kaidan fired off a couple of bursts at the fast approaching swarm to little effect. The droning was filling the air as he ran backward trying to swat away the oversized insects. All around him, the bugs were stabbing at the colonists, paralyzing them. He managed to swat at one that just landed on his neck and squashed it with disgust.
The lone Alliance officer and trained soldier ran like hell to the laser turret bunker, to see if he could finally smash the thing in to work. The sky was turning to fire as a ship was entering atmosphere. When he reached the bunker, the blast doors were c
ME: All the Things That I've Done Ch.40Chapter 40 – The Gang Is All HereME: All the Things That I've Done Ch.40 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
"Kaidan, this is a surprise." Mira settled back on her heels.
"Step in a little further and let the door close. I have something to say and I don't need those people out there to eavesdrop." Kaidan tilted his head to the open doorway Mira stood in.
"Alright." She took a couple of steps and the doors swished shut, leaving both Spectres in the intervening hatchway between the Citadel and the Normandy. Mira watched Kaidan as he turned his head back to look at the Normandy under Alliance colors. A flicker of a smile stretched on his mouth but she didn't get anything else as to what the man was thinking.
"I've been doing some thinking since we last spoke." Kaidan began. "I guess I wasn't really listening when I should have when you told me about Cerberus and the time you were…mostly dead." He sighed heavily and turned towa
ME: All the Things - InterludeInterludeME: All the Things - Interlude in Sci-Fi More Like This
During the hours after the destruction of the Normandy, news reached quickly to Omega and to certain eyes and ears of the Illusive Man. There was only a small window of opportunity and Miranda helped Liara, Shepard's former crewmate and friend, to attain a precious package from the hands of the Collectors. Of course, it was all being done through a third party and this third party was being illusive as to where the exchange was happening.
Some mercenary was in the system when the distress signal from the Normandy came through on all open channels, blaring the mayday. They spotted the vapor trail and small speck of the falling body trapped in Alchera's gravity well. The merc was there for the Collector's. The Collector's attacked the Normandy, hoping that the one human they had their interest in would survive the explosion and be taken before a search and rescue would come in. It didn't matter that Shepard was breathing, conscio
DA2-Abandon Ch.3DA2-Abandon Ch.3 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Title: Abandon
Chapter Three
Author: CelticWolfwalker
Game: DA2
Pairing: F!Hawke/Cullen
Notes: Takes place in the intervening years between Act I and II. This will be a short series.
Panting, Marian worked her fingers into the crevasse and pressed her body upwards. She followed each move Cullen made as they traversed the thin trail that ended ten feet from their goal at the top of the cliff. The man kept surprising her with his knowledge and his numerous strengths. How such a capable man that was healthy and vigorous be so emotionally scarred? Then again, she had her fair share of emotional scars, not that any of her friends knew, or even Carver. Carver never knew how much Bethany's death affected her, despite his goading, that Marian didn't seem to care that she was gone.
Grasp, flex, pull, Marian did the movement again and squeaked as her head bumped into Cullen's leg. "Why are you stopping?" she whined a little, her arms and fingers quivering with exhaustion and strain.
"Shhh, I'm t
ME: All the Things That I've Done Ch.24Chapter 24 – Taking Out the TrashME: All the Things That I've Done Ch.24 in Sci-Fi More Like This
Vido Santiago held a hand up to his people, halting them from doing anything. He sauntered to the middle of the empty space between his group and the two Spectres. Mira's eyes narrowed, her gun never wavering its aim at the Blue Suns leader. He started to smile, which unnerved her. Kaidan chanced a look to Mira but she silently communicated to let her do the talking.
"Well, well, well, the woman who has caused me so much trouble and a lot of money these past few months. Tell me, do you still hang around that mongrel, Zaeed?"
"Maybe but then he isn't your concern. I am." Mira's voice turned icy and dangerous, her body flickering with a dark blue corona.
"True, I am more concerned with you and getting compensation for the assets you have destroyed."
"Oh, the assets your mercs had swindled from helpless colonists? Such as, murdering helpless civilians of a couple of mines
ME: All the Things Ch.19Chapter 19 – One Battle After AnotherME: All the Things Ch.19 in Sci-Fi More Like This
Kaidan stood outside the door to Anderson's office and waited to be called in. He was told that Anderson was in a meeting with the Council but the Councilor was aware he was there. Still, waiting on politics chafed with Kaidan. 'And that is why I hate politics.' Ashley once said on their first trip to the citadel. Mira agreed to the sentiment immediately but had to keep her opinion quiet. Kaidan sighed softly at the fond memory and looked up as the door opened and Udina stormed out without looking up to see him standing there.
With a raised eyebrow, Kaidan entered Anderson's office, watching the older man try to calm down but the telltale sign of grinding teeth was noticeable to Kaidan's keen perception. "You really need to do something with him, sir."
"I wish I could punch him out again." Anderson chuckled and motioned for Kaidan to grab a seat across from his desk.
ME: All the Things That I've Done Ch.43Chapter 43 – BreakdownME: All the Things That I've Done Ch.43 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
One of the last holdouts resisting the Reapers conquest and it was being overrun finally. The Asari councilor had requested their assistance, seeing that they were not invisible to the Reaper's interest. To add to the offer, Mira was made known about a Prothean artifact on Thessia. She kept her temper under control but to hear that the Asari knew about something that could help them with the Crucible and the war, incensed Mira. Liara was even angry and demanded to join Mira and Kaidan on the mission.
Now, they stood there overlooking the expanse of Thessia burning, Reapers firing and walking through the metropolis. They had cleared their way to the temple but a brief moment to watch Thessia's destruction struck the team speechless. Mira gritted her teeth together, trying to keep under control at seeing the senseless destruction. Millions of lives were being slaughtered each day and she could feel their time running shor
ME: Whiskey and Bourbon C03Title: Whiskey and BourbonME: Whiskey and Bourbon C03 in Sci-Fi More Like This
Author: CelticWolfwalker
Game: Mass Effect
characters/pairing: f!Shep/Kaidan
Disclaimer: All ME references belong to Bioware. The author is taking some liberty with certain things regarding the story of Shepard and Kaidan. And that this author is nuts for taking on another story at this time! (blame ME and starting up a new femShep)
Chapter 03
Jesse closed her eyes, her jaw grinding as she tried to keep her temper from exploding at Kaidan. This wasn't the time or place to argue with the Lieutenant regarding his skills. Her eyes said it all to him and he knew she was angry. "Can I depend on you to use your abilities to the fullest, Lieutenant Alenko?"
She noted the slight narrowing of his eyes as he heard her call him by the formal title. "Yes, ma'am."
"Then do so." She started to turn away and rejoin Ashley so they could check the area for any survivors when Kaidan called.
The First Step - Ch10The First Step - Ch10 in Settings More Like This
The First Step
Chapter Ten ~ Jowan
Characters: Jowan
Three days had passed since arriving in Redcliffe and the early rays of dawn found Ilaria pacing back and forth in her room. The handsome Bann Teagan had agreed to allow her to visit Jowan in the dungeon but she had been unable to bring herself to do so. She was running out of time. They were leaving Redcliffe the next morning. She desperately wanted to see her friend but was torn by the feelings of betrayal left behind after his escape and her aversion to speak of Neria's death. She knew she would have to tell him. Deylan had barely spoken to him after finding him alive in the dungeon over a week prior and not at all since returning from the Circle.
She stood at the open window, the cold morning air steeling her, and watched the sun begin its climb into the sky. As the last of the bright orb left the horizon, she took a deep breath, pushed away the dark tho
The First Step - Ch3The First Step - Ch3 in Settings More Like This
The First Step
Chapter Three ~ Displays of Power
Standing in the large training room, Ilaria mused over her discussion with Irving the night before. After informing her of the stipulations on her remaining within the Tower she'd been sent off to rest. Sleeping in a soft bed for the first time in weeks left her looking forward to the day of testing. It had been months since she had done anything with her magic and she had the sensation of being cramped. It was as if her magical abilities needed to be stretched like her legs would need to be had she kept them curled beneath her for too long.
"Let us begin with your abilities in Primal and Elemental magic," Irving began. "Are you familiar with the manipulation of all the elements?"
Ilaria's fingers tingled with anticipation. Her fascination of elemental spells had made her exceptionally proficient in Primal magic.
"I can manipulate all the elements, but my stre
The First Step - Ch1The First Step - Ch1 in Settings More Like This
The First Step
Chapter One ~ Welcome to Ferelden
Characters: Anders, Irving, Greagoir, Cullen
This is not what she had expected.
She knew the Templars would be suspicious of her voluntarily turning herself in but she had never considered that they would be cruel. She'd been in Ferelden for just over a month when she entered the Chantry in Highever and asked to see the Knight-Commander. She'd waited patiently for most of the day for him to become available. When she was finally ushered into a small office just off the side of the Chantry, she presented herself as a Tevinter mage and offered her paperwork as proof. Several minutes passed while he examined her official travel papers. The silence began to make her uneasy so she explained that she was hoping to spend some time in Ferelden's Circle to study. She was unsurprised that he seemed uneasy but he was diplomatic and stated that he would have a Templar esc
The First Step - Ch17The First Step - Ch17 in Settings More Like This
The First Step
Chapter 16 ~ Life Binding
"No! Wynne, you have to do something!" Ilaria cried. Flemeth was dead and Alistair lay motionless, broken and battered, blood slowly pooling around him.
Wynne sighed. "Ilaria, he's too far gone. I'm sorry but..." her voice cracked, "there's nothing I can do."
The young mage looked at the woman she'd come to respect as a mentor, a great healer. If she was giving up so easily then the damage must be even worse than she realized.
Fighting off panic, Ilaria ran through spells in her head finally settling on one she'd studied long ago. It was old magic from a very old tome. It had spoken of consequences but they had been unclear. Time had worn away what warning may have been there. But the knowledge would not have changed her mind now. A calm clarity settled on her.
"Zevran, bring Morrigan and the others here. There are extra vials of lyrium in my pack. Wynne will n
The First Step - Ch4The First Step - Ch4 in Settings More Like This
The First Step
Chapter Four ~ The Harrowing
Cullen always hated these nights. He'd only been a templar at the Circle for a few years, but he'd never quite gotten used to the Harrowing. And tonight it was Ilaria, the petite little Tevinter mage that had shown up in Ferelden almost a month ago. Half a dozen templars, all in full armor, dragged her from sleep in the middle of the night, ordered her to dress, and then led her to the Harrowing chamber. Though she seemed disoriented at first, she quickly complied with the same grace with which she did everything else.
Her diminutive size masked a prodigious amount of magical power. He was certain that if she wasn't protected by Tevinter law that Knight-Commander Greagoir would have had her made Tranquil. Her impressive level of control was also a possible factor in that. Cullen hadn't seen any of the Circle mages able to cast elemental spells with the same kind of p
The First Step - Ch2The First Step - Ch2 in Settings More Like This
The First Step
Chapter Two ~ Acceptance With Conditions
The Templars, Cullen and Adair, escorted Ilaria to Knight-Commander Greagoir's office on the ground floor of the Circle Tower. Her hope of being given the opportunity to clean up first was quickly dashed. Though, in all honesty, it was wishful thinking at best. These Ferelden Templars were nothing like those in Tevinter. The Tevinter Templars were cautious around mages but treated them with a great deal of respect. Ilaria was beginning to wonder why she thought she might even be given a hint of that respect in a nation whose primary faith taught that mages should be unwillingly locked in a tower because of an accident of birth.
Greagoir's office was utilitarian, to say the least. There was a large, solid wooden desk in the center of the room, a few chairs and a bookshelf. The only decorations visible was the Templar coat-of-arms hanging over the mantle an
The First Step - Ch5The First Step - Ch5 in Settings More Like This
The First Step
Chapter Five - Solitary
Ander's watches Ilaria, his head resting in her lap, as she tells another story about her adventures with the Bella Serata Faire. She does her best to keep the storytelling to a minimum since it makes the templars shifty but Neria is persistent. Neria has become the little sister to their little group: Anders, Ilaria, Neria, Jowan and Deylan Amell. Everyone dotes on her and protects her. She's sitting at Ilaria's feet now, eyes bright and smiling. Jowan is sitting in a chair nearby, occasionally asking questions. Deylan, ever serious, is also sitting nearby but with a book in his lap, pretending not to listen. This is the closest to family Anders has gotten in a long time, not that he would admit that, of course. The templars would just find a way to take it from him like they did everything else.
Ilaria drew them together. Jowan and Neri
The First Step - Ch15The First Step - Ch15 in Settings More Like This
The First Step
Chapter 15 ~ Ashes For Eamon
During the journey back to Redcliffe, Morrigan was true to her word and began to teach Ilaria shape-changing. Ilaria had always been a good student of magic and most spells came easily to her. Shape-changing, however, seemed to be the one thing she was unable to grasp.
"No! You have to let go of your form," Morrigan stressed again. It was obvious she was getting frustrated. Her usually short temper had become shorter and her scowl had gone beyond her usual grimace. "You have to let go of what you are to become something else."
"I'm trying."
Ilaria was frustrated. She'd gone through the steps over and over again and had been unable to get her form to vary at all. She was now exhausted from repeated attempts. Her head had started throbbing dully sometime back and now her eyes had that itchy, need-to-sleep feeling. She rolled her neck from side to side in an attempt to loosen stiffening muscles.
Morrigan sighed. "Think of the animal
The First Step - Ch12The First Step - Ch12 in Settings More Like This
The First Step
Chapter Twelve ~ Zevran
Characters: The Whole Party except Ogren
The Warden's and their little party had been on the road to Denerim for just over three weeks. Dragon's Peak was a smudge in the distance when they stopped for lunch. Due to the amount of time they were spending together, the band of travelers was becoming quite close. Protecting one another during skirmishes with small groups of darkspawn or bandits only helped to increase their bond. Deylan observed this new "family" contentedly. After leaving the Circle, he'd not thought to find the companionship that he'd had there again. He certainly didn't expect to find it among the Wardens. He'd never gotten time to know them but his experience told him that "normal people" were always suspicious of mages. He couldn't help but wonder if it was Ilaria. She'd drawn him and the others together at the Circle. Perhaps it was her here as well. He knew the others would follow his lead but he also knew that he wa
The First Step - Ch13The First Step - Ch13 in Settings More Like This
The First Step
Chapter Thirteen ~ Denerim
Where Alistair meets Goldanna....
Denerim rose on the horizon. They would reach it's gates the following day. They'd camped in a little hollow a short walk from the road. Ilaria was looking forward to a little time in the city. She knew their stay would be short, but the thought of a hot bath, a warm meal and a soft bed for a few nights in a row was appealing.
Zevran was everything he promised to be. He'd proved himself to be a capable fighter through a few skirmishes in the last few days. He was helpful both setting up and taking down camp and quick to comply with any request given to him. Ilaria wanted to trust him but couldn't ignore the unease she felt. She'd promised to take responsibility for his actions and knew she'd never forgive herself if she was wrong. Each night she cast a mild sleeping spell over the golden assassin befor
Confused Torment - Part 23 (Anders)Confused Torment - Part 23 (Anders) in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Anders' heart started racing before he had fully awoken. He could hear two voices whispering and feared the worst, that the Templar's had come for him. His eyes shot open flitting, wildly, around the room. For a second he panicked, disoriented by his surroundings, until he spotted Hawke. He inhaled, with relief, releasing the tension in his body, as the previous evenings events flooded his mind. A small smile crept across his lips with the realization that, for once, it had not been a dream. He studied Hawke, crouched next to her elven servant, Orana, the two working together to build a fire within the hearth. Orana must have heard his movement because she grew suddenly silent and glanced back at him. When she saw that he was awake, she turned back towards Hawke, whispered into her ear, then stood abruptly and hurried out of the room.
Hawke glanced over her shoulder at him, a large smile lighting up her face. The fire in the hearth reflected against her cheek, causing
Confused Torment- Part 17 (Fenris)Confused Torment- Part 17 (Fenris) in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
He bowed his back and shoved his hands deeper into his pockets. He had thought, for sure, that if he took the long way through Darktown, he would be warmer. The corridors creaked in response to the howling wind as the cold air assaulted him in the narrow passages, sending chills up his spine. It was almost worse than walking outside. He cursed under his breath for not thinking to wear another layer under his armor. Even after three years, he still wasn't used to how fast the temperatures dropped within the weeks prior to the onslaught of Kirkwall's winter months.
He was tempted to quicken his pace but resisted the urge, despite the cold. He still wasn't sure what he was going to say to Hawke when he saw her. He knew that it was going to be awkward. He had not seen her for weeks, which had made him absolutely miserable; especially because for many months, prior to their break in contact, he had spent nearly every evening with her.
Confused Torment - Part 15 (Fenris)Confused Torment - Part 15 (Fenris) in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
"Fenris, it's me, open up!"
Fenris turned the page of his book, as he attempted to ignore Isabela's loud knocking and muffled voice.
"I know that you're in there! Open up or I'll just pick the locks!"
He sighed, he didn't want to deal with Isabela; he just wanted to finish his book. He reluctantly put down his book, stood, and then slowly made his way towards the front entrance. He carefully undid the series of locks (that he had installed after Isabela's last break in) and opened the door, marginally. A gust of the cold autumn wind, swished inside of the mansion, sending chills up his arms.
"What do you want?"
Isabela rubbed her arms, briskly, fighting against the cold. "I'm freezing!" she chattered through her teeth. He looked back at her, irritated by her lack of a substantial response and she bit her lip in frustration. "Maker, Fenris, are you really going to make me stand outside in the cold like this?"
Without a word, he pulled the door open all of the way and then
Confused Torment - Part 25 (Hawke)Confused Torment - Part 25 (Hawke) in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
For the first time in weeks, the sun was out and the winds were calm, seducing all of Kirkwall to leave their homes and enjoy the crisp autumn air. Due to the beauty of the day, the gallows were especially busy. There were hordes of people gathered around the merchant tents, making it difficult for Hawke as she wound in and out of the crowds of people, searching for any sign of him. She stood on her tippy toes, in attempt to better locate him in the mass, but Titan spotted him before she did and dashed through the crowd of people, knocking over a tranquil mage in his enthusiasm.
"I'm so sorry!" Hawke implored, breathlessly, as she reached her arm out to help the middle aged woman return to a standing position.
Once she was fully upright, Hawke released the woman's hand and quickly scurried off after Titan, barely making out the woman's polite "Thank you" in the typical non inflection monotone, characteristic of a tranquil. She pushed through the path, taking ad
Confused Torment - Part 11 (Hawke)Confused Torment - Part 11 (Hawke) in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Hawke allowed herself to follow Fenris, as his taut, stiff, body moved towards the exit of the bar. She held his gaze, for the first time that day, allowing him the chance to express something back at her; anything. She was so confused by him. Fenris wasn't the type to express his feelings with words; if he ever gave away anything, it was in his countenance. For several months she had been analyzing his gestures towards her, hoping that something would stand out as confirmation that he had felt the same way. The past few months, had been one very long tease of second guessing. Less than eighteen hours ago, he had finally given her the very look that she had been waiting for. His green eyes, darkened with an undoubted desire, were still perfectly visible in her mind.
For so long, she had yearned to be with him, to feel his touch on her skin, and his lips upon hers. Giving herself to him had been a natural progression to her own passion's unwilling dormanc
Confused Torment - Part 16 (Hawke)Confused Torment - Part 16 (Hawke) in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Hawke walked briskly through the narrow aerated corridors of Darktown. As she rounded the corner towards Anders' clinic, an icy gust of wind hit her in the crossfire, sending a chill up her spine. She pulled her new shawl tighter around her shoulders and arms, determined to stay warm. Mother had just made her the shawl; it was a deep red maroon, except for the middle, where Mother had embroidered the Hawke insignia in a shimmering gold thread that she had bought off of an Orlesian merchant. The garment was soft against the nape of her neck and as she constricted her body inwards, to ward off the cold, she inhaled deeply and caught a whiff of Mother's lily fragrance, wrapped lovingly within the comfort of its warmth.
She entered the clinic to find Anders huddled beneath a blanket next to the roaring fire in the hearth. He had pushed one of his work tables close to the fireplace and was scribbling, fervently, upon a piece of parchment. She w
Confused Torment - Part 18 (Anders)Confused Torment - Part 18 (Anders) in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Anders waited until he could no longer hear Hawke's footsteps and then dropped his quill. He plopped his head down on the table and knocked his forehead against the sturdy oak as he fought against the urge to run after her. He wanted to, badly, but his thoughts felt jumbled and conflicted. He stood, pushing his chair back with force. He pulled out the tie that held his hair in a ponytail, and then ran his fingers through the thick strands as he paced the length of the fireplace beside him.
Part of him was screaming out that she was a distraction from an important work that needed to be done and that what mattered, the most, was to remain steadfast and focused upon his mission. Now, was not to the time to get lost in his obsession with Hawke! The other part of him was excited and invigorated that he had kissed her, at last, and that she had kissed him back! He wanted to linger in his thoughts, relive the softness of
Confused Torment - Part 10 (Fenris)Confused Torment - Part 10 (Fenris) in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Fenris waited for Isabela to leave the table then, once she was gone, he looked up and immediately made eye contact with Hawke. He wanted that moment, those few seconds locked in her gaze, to last for forever. She shifted her eyes away so quickly, that he was barely able to adjust to the conflicting wave of emotions that encompassed him whole. Hope and happiness were quickly shot down and replaced with despondency. In truth, he had no idea why he had joined the rest of the party at The Hanged Man. He was exhausted and being around her, was as painful as it was intoxicating. This foreign feeling of distance, between them, was beyond frustrating.
For as long as he could remember, he had been a slave. He had withstood things that no one should ever have been made to endure. Leaving that life had been far from simple. For years he had been on the run, always looking behind his back, subconsciously aware of the simplest shift of movements surrounding him. Constantl
Confused Torment - Part 28 (Anders)Confused Torment - Part 28 (Anders) in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Anders held his breath as Hawke blinked her eyes, adjusting to the light."Where am I?" she asked, groggily.
"Keeper Marithari's tent." He said gazing down at her with relief.
"What?" She asked, her eyelashes fluttering wildly, as she fought to adjust to her disorientation. "Why?" she stated, confused, attempting to sit up once more. She froze immediately, her face turning bright red as a groan escaped her lips in response to her exertion.
He gently pushed down on her shoulder, "Just stay still, Hawke; you are badly wounded."
Her forehead creased in confusion and then softened as a look of remembrance settled into her expression. "…The Varterral." He nodded, in agreement, while gazing into her deep blue eyes.
Merrill rushed to her side and cupped Hawke's hand within hers, forcing her eyes to leave his. "Hawke, I am so sorry—this is all my fault!"
Hawke shook her head softly. "No, Merrill, it's no one's fault but my o…" Hawke's voice cut off as s
Confused Torment - Part 27Confused Torment - Part 27 in Introductions & Chapters More Like This
Fenris stood in a daze, watching as Hawke's chest slowly lifted with each shallow breath. She was pale, not the soft porcelain pink that he was used to; she looked sunken, sickeningly drawn. Her vibrancy was gone and the emptiness that filled its place, made him feel numb and in a state of surreal disconnection. His breathing slowed to match her own as his gaze shifted vacantly to Anders' hands which glowed blue as they worked diligently to heal the gaping wound in her side.
Aveline's voice echoed in his mind as if she stood at shouting distance, not right beside him. It wasn't until she repeated his name a second time, that he reluctantly tore his eyes away from Hawke's unconscious body and made eye contact with her. She looked at his chest piece pointedly, before silently shifting her gaze to Hawke's mother. Leandra sat on a stool beside her daughter, clutching Hawke's limp fingers in her palm, tears streaming down her cheeks while she stared in a
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