Unseen: Mass Effect FanFiction (ReWritten)

Chapter 32

The air in Mina and Garrus's apartment on the Citadel was lively. Strings of lights, strung with questionable precision by Garrus, shimmered around the living room. Solana had decided to help make the turian food.

The low thrum of the extranet news report was being played in the background. They were waiting for the Council to make their big announcement. All three pairs of eyes instinctively turned to the wall screen as Councillor Tevos began her address to the press.

"...and so, the Council can confirm that the individuals responsible for the illicit development and distribution of the pheromone-based control agents have been apprehended. Their network has been dismantled, and all remaining caches destroyed."

A collective sigh of relief passed through the room. The pheromone case had been a dark cloud hanging over the Citadel for weeks – a chilling reminder of how easily control could be exerted.

Tevos continued, her voice gaining strength. "Furthermore, the Council has established a comprehensive compensation program for all those affected. Therapists, medical assistance, and financial aid will be readily available. For those who, as a result of these heinous acts, wish to separate from their current relationships, comprehensive support and guidance will also be provided."

Mina exchanged a glance with Solana. They'd heard countless stories, some heartbreaking, others terrifying. Solana looked particularly somber. Garrus, his posture stiff, his mandibles slightly flared, was clearly disturbed.

"Good," Garrus finally said, his voice a low growl. "Took them long enough to pin down the bastards. And the separation option... that's important. Imagine being trapped, not knowing if your feelings were even your own." He shivered, a subtle tremor through his armored plating.

"It's a heavy thought," Mina agreed softly.

'Why don't you just ask him?' SAM inquired, reading her mind. 'I know you want to confirm what he meant by you're not separating.'

'I just - this isn't the time to ask,' Mina said, looking at Solana. 'I don't want to bring it up with Solana here.'

'Talk to him,' SAM advised.

'I will, just not right now,' Mina promised.

"Wrex said not to cook anything for dinner," Solana called out from the kitchen. "He's bringing some takeout for everyone."

"Saves me from washing dishes," Mina muttered.

As the sounds of the extranet faded back into the background hum of general news, the three of them continued finishing getting ready for the New Year.

**

"Aster," Wrex greeted as he entered the apartment. "It's good to see that you didn't get kicked out by the pyjak."

Garrus growled. "I wasn't planning on kicking her out."

Wrex laughed. "If you weren't married, maybe you would have."

Garrus growled at him.

"Stop teasing him," Solana said, grabbing the take-out from him. "Let's eat."

Nihlus showed up some time after.

"I heard the news on the way here," Wrex was saying as he stuffed his face. "Good things that's taken care of."

"Now we can focus on the important things," he continued.

Everyone waited for him to continue.

"Who's going to challenge me to a drinking game?"

Mina threw a pair of napkins at him. She thought it was important.