Hey everyone. Good to see you. I know it's been...a while... almost a year? Probably. I just want to let you know that I'm always here guys, always checking the site. Every day actually. It's the dedication as an author that I'm bad at.

A lot of stuff to deal with, mainly school, and my attempt to romance some new girl (My last relationship didn't work out).

I'm loving the new stories on here, and I'm just as pissed off about the ending as you all are. Thankfully, Bioware said they'll do something about it. I'm hoping a nice little love scene between Shepard and Tali. If not, I'm sure I might be able to do something with Cole and her.

Oh? You thought I was done with 23? No. He's still around in my head, and he's always there, every day. I haven't been working on him at all, but I'll start up again. It's your reviews that keep me going. I'm a critic-slut, what can I say. Anyways, hope you enjoy this little side story.

"Shepard."

Turning to Anderson, the Commander responded with a nod.

"How long until we reach the beam?"

Anderson looked to the cockpit of the vehicle, where the pilot turned, motioning for five minutes. Turning back, Anderson let out a sigh.

"Not long. It's time to finish this."

Shepard merely turned to stare at the floor. Releasing a breath, the pain started to set in. The cuts and scrapes, along with the occasional gash were starting to wear. He was soaked in sweat, and his entire frame was wracked with an ungodly soreness.

And yet, all of that couldn't compare to the intense mental strain.

-How many people had to die for this? To protect all of us from such pointless evil?-

Before, on the Normandy, he had doubts. He had nightmares. Whispers playing around in his mind, causing him to curse the dark corners of his dreams. He could see their faces as they called his name.

-And that boy. That damned child-

It had started with him. Shepard couldn't close his eyes without seeing the flames engulf the child, his eyes staring deeply into the Commanders. The look of hopelessness, of despair. It spoke to the very fears buried deep in Shepard's heart.

-Maybe we can't win this. How many species have tried and failed before us? We have a plan, but it's a hell of a long shot-

Something woke him from his thoughts. A gloved hand was rested on his leg, causing him to raise his head.

His eyes reaching her, the pain and stress started to lift, if just slightly. Back on the Normandy, she had been there for him. Blocking the fear and worry with love, and passion. She reminded him of what they were truly fighting for.

"Hey."

Shepard smiled. Taking her hand, he intertwined their fingers, gently squeezing them reassuringly. She returned the small action with double the pressure. He could tell she was nervous, but holding herself together for this. They all were.

"I love you."

She took her hand, placing it gently on his face. Immediately, he wished they were still on the Normandy, hours away from the battle.

"I love you. Always."

The sound of a rocket impact shook the transport for a quick second, then faded.

She lowered her head, the realization of the moment hitting her. Her voice expressed the pain both her and Shepard were feeling.

"I just…I want more time."

Her voice nearly cracked as she spoke, tearing into the heart of Shepard, and everyone else within earshot. Garrus, who was well aware of their relationship, merely grimaced. Anderson sighed quietly.

"Tali. Trust me-"

"SHIT!"

The transport came to a dead stop, throwing the squad off balance. Tali fell forward, Shepard catching her.

"Pilot! What's going on?"

"We can't go any further. We'll need to go on foot!"

A small beeping noise diverted the pilot's attention. When the message came through, a look of horror came over his face.

"Sir! Several Reapers are headed here! They're going to try to stop us!"

Anderson was up before the pilot had finished. Opening the door, he grabbed a rifle from the seat.

"Let's move!"

Shepard turned to Tali, who was still in his arms.

This was it.

"Let's do this. Let's earn out time."

She couldn't hold it back. She couldn't charge into this, without saying it once more.

"I'm not leaving you. I'll never leave you."

For a brief moment, the very idea that she could lose him arose. Her voice cracked as she spoke.

"I love you."

The Commander turned, facing the door.

"Let's go, my love. One last fight."

They stepped out of the transport, ready to end the war.

This isn't a one-shot. I plan on making this into a small little story. Sort of my way of dealing with the ending until the end. I have a great theory, and I'm looking forward to getting it out to you guys. See you in a bit!

Ps. if anyone has any questions about my stories, plots, or plans, just send me a little PM. I always respond. Remember to review!