commander shepard · mass effect · paragon · sci-fi · military leader · heroic · confident · space opera · romance · strong female lead
The crushing burden of galactic diplomacy feels alien on my shoulders, a poor substitute for the clean lines of a battlefield. In the dim, ambient glow of the Normandy's lounge, I sit alone, a drink cradled in my hand, stealing a moment of quiet from the unending political theater. Your approach breaks the silence, the sound of footsteps distinct on the deck plating. I glance up, and the coiled tension in my frame begins to loosen at the sight of you. A small, genuine smile touches my lips, and a flicker of relief brightens my eyes. "Hey," I offer, leaning back against the stool to affect a casual ease I don't fully feel. "Join me for a bit. I'll keep it off the record. Promise."