I headcanon that there’s universal baseline additions Cerberus gives Shepard: faster, stronger, more durable. Simon is an infiltrator so I think post-Lazarus he gets even better control over his heart rate. He can make his body entirely calm and still so he can make that perfect shot.
19. What are they like in a bad mood? How obvious is it?
He’s not normally talkative so when he gets pushed to talk in a bad mood he’s much more snappish. It is obvious because you can feel his glare. He also has less time for bullshit. He gets very mean, and does not pull his punches. (Nor physically if it comes to that)
23. Ever had a broken heart?
Not necessarily in the sense of a break-up, but his boyfriend on Mindoir was murdered and that along with the raid, destroyed him.
So, Peak Practice, the 90s British medical comedy/drama set in a countryside GP (doctor’s) surgery, has been showing reruns recently (just finished series 1) and I’m loving it~! <3 It so far has similar vibes to Ballyk, but I’m loving it even on its own merits <3
However, other than a few gifsets for later series, there seems to be almost no existence of the show existing on here (or even any episodes to stream online </3)
SHEP QUESTIONS TIME BAYBEEEEEE -- 31 & 47 for Simon, 23, 44, & 45 for Jenn
from @spookyvalentine fifth Shepard questions list
Simon:
31: Ask Doctor Chakwas: what kind of patient is Shepard?
Terrible. He is really bad at being vulnerable and admitting any weaknesses. But he respects Chakwas a lot (almost like a mother figure to him, though he will never admit that) so me1 he's pretty okay about going to her, but it's when no one else is around. Come me2, he doesn't want to confront the fact that his body is different, is more machine, more monster it reflects who he is in the inside
47: Do they let others take of them?
Begrudgingly and not often. only select people can take care of him. Tali, Chakwas, and Anderson. He would prefer to take care of things himself, but it's only when he is literally keeling over that he will let someone help him. When him and Tali are established in a relationship, it gets easier for her to help her
--
Jenn:
23: Ever had a broken heart?
One true heartbreak, back in her early military days, she was in a serious committed relationship. it ended badly, fucking with her self imagery and then she didn't really give time to romantic relationships. until Kal comes along
44: Does collateral damage matter to Shepard?
Yes. Mostly. Touching civilians is a big no no for her, but she's indiscriminate to her enemies. Naive and affected by propaganda or fully immersed in the bad guys' ideologies, it doesn't matter: if you are in her way, she will remove you
45: Do they vote?
Mainly yeah. She wants to know the policies of the people that are governing her/where she's living. Though, she's normally on star ships so it doesn't always matter.
I did the rest of @spookyvalentine shepard questions. Can find their lists here: Round Two | Three | Four
ETA: The first set of answered questions can be found here!
I’m just gonna put them in one post for easy access. These answers aren’t entirely in depth but they’re good stepping stones and I had a lot of fun doing this!
There are also a couple nsfw questions and answers so here’s your warning for that.
1. Where would your Shepard go back to play tourist? Are they going alone, or bringing someone(s)?
Probably Britain and he’ll bring along Tali.
2. Your Shepard is making a sandwich. What’s going in it?
Chicken, lettuce, hot sauce.
3. What’s Shepard’s love language? What love languages do they respond best to?
He does quality time and acts of service. Is very touch starved so be gentle please.
4. What were Shepard’s opinions of Cerberus before waking up on their table?
Fuck Cerberus. Doesn’t like shadow groups that go off the rails and does not condone human experimentation. He has lines. He can understand where they’re coming from, but they’re messy. He doesn’t like messy.
5. Is your Shepard politically active? Do they stay on top of galactic comings and going’s?
He’s tries to keep up with the news because he likes knowing what’s going on t ll times but tries his best not to doom scroll.
6. What would they be doing, if Shepard never joined the alliance?
He’d probably be in the tech industry. Probably helping make guns/the VI for guns and that sort of stuff.
7. What’s Shepard’s favorite way to let loose?
Working out or a good spar. Give him space to listen to music and read a good book with his tea and he’s golden.
8. Does your Shepard like to be alone? Are they prone to isolate?
He totally is prone to isolate, and he prefers to be alone. Does not like people and being Perceived. Does not want get close to people so when they inevitably leave him (one way or another) it doesn’t hurt.
9. What does Shepard like to wear when they’re out of the armor?
Hoodies jeans/sweats. Covers every inch of skin for the most part.
10. What does TIM think of Shepard at the start of me2? And at the end?
Thinks Shepard would understand TIM’s motives and is glad Simon’s cooperative. At the end, is glad Shep doesn’t blow up the collector base but he does get the middle finger from Simon. Simon bounces immediately afterwards and takes everything he can with him. So TIM gets pissed bc he thought they could work together.
11. What does Shepard think of TIM?
Hates the guy and does not trust him. Works with him because he does believe he’s the best chance to help people during me2. Leaves as soon as he can.
12. Who is Shepard’s favorite non-companion character?
As of right now, its Anderson and Chakwas.
13. What kind of roommate would Shepard be?
Keeps to himself and does his chores and cleans up after himself. His room though? Not entirely messy but he’ll leave his clothes on the floor and pick ‘em up later. Doesn’t really own a lot of material possessions besides from gear so those are just places about wherever. His gear he keeps pristine though.
14. It’s takeout potluck night with the gang! What’s Shepard ordering, and from where?
Alcohol. Bourbon specifically. He’ll get the good expensive shit if they’re doing this properly.
15. If Shepard could have an extremely dangerous and illegal pet, what would it be?
A snake. Or a varren.
16.. What does Aria think of Shepard?
Likes how ruthless he is, how far he’s willing to go for his mission. Sucks that he hates her though. He could be fun.
17. Does your Shepard seek counseling/have a therapist?
Absolutely fucking not. Does not want someone poking around in his head and trying to analyze him. Only goes when he’s forced to and he will be stubborn about it.
18. Obligatory gang beach episode! What’s Shepard doing?
He’s surfing and kicking ass at volleyball.
19. What was Shepard’s first interaction with an alien?
Probably an asari on earth. He was born in Britain and was raised there for a few years because his dad was deployed there, before his family moved to Mindoir. So, I imagine there’s a couple aliens in Earths major cities and such around 2154.
20. List five songs your Shepard is currently listening to:
-Change by Sephe (I am currently listening to this on repeat as I’m answering these)
-Limbo by Freddie Dedd
-On My Hunt by gizmo
-Everything Black by Unlike Pluto, Mike Taylor
-Destruction by Joywave
21. What companion quest did shepard enjoy the most? What was the most difficult one for them to do?
Jack’s. Of course, he wants to blow up Cerberus property. Most difficult was probably Garrus’. He completely understand where he’s coming from and he’s been in Garrus’ shoes and took the shot, but he also doesn’t want Garrus to end up like him. In the end, after Sidonis has revealed how distraught he is about everything, he lets him decide if he still wants to. Afterall, he wouldn’t want anyone standing in his way. Didn’t let anyone stand in his way. He took the shot. He lets Garrus do the same.
22. Any guilty pleasures?
Likes candy. Sour or sweet doesn’t matter. Does not care if anyone catches him sucking on a heart-shaped lollipop. Also loves sending nudes (with permission of course)
23. What does Shepard think of Conrad Verner? How do they handle him?
Annoying little shit and sends him on his way. He doesn’t need fans. He doesn’t want more people like him out in the world. Immediate dismissal, and does not put a gun in his face; he’s a civilian after all.
24. How does Shepard handle house arrest? How do they fill their time?
Hates being cooped up and off the field for this long. Spends a lot of time working out and playing cards. Catches up on the news and his reading. Spends a lot of time reading.
25. How does Shepard react to meeting Javik, a real life prothean?
You mean him if he was frozen for fifty-thousand years? Yeah they get along like a house on fire because Simon understands Javik’s pain. Javik is Simon, but more pessimistic and extreme.
26. What is Shepard’s relationship with Joker?
Joker is Simon’s only friend. Two pessimistic, sarcastic bros who understand each other and don’t talk about feelings. Joker’s just the one who got a nickname out of not smiling.
27. What does your Shepard take pictures of?
Guns, mods, tech, gear etc. Isn’t really a picture kinda guy and avoids them unless he has to.
28. Who is your voice cast for Shepard? Is it Jennifer Hale/Mark Meer? Do they have an accent?
All I know if he’s got a slight British accent that’s very much diminished over the years.
29. What is the perfect day for Shepard?
When he doesn’t get anyone killed and a mission goes how he wants it too. Where he can end the day in the bath with a good book and bourbon. He’s left alone to do as he wishes and no one bothers him with any problems.
30. What did Shepard think of the thorian? How did they feel about killing it? What did they decide for Shiala?
Simon thinks that dealing with sentient plants is not what he wanted to do with his life and idly thinks his mom would have loved to study it. Doesn’t regret killing it as it enslaves others with its mind powers which he does not fuck around with. Shiala dies. Especially, since she went in his head.
31. How did Shepard feel, seeing Legion wearing their old armor? Does that change?
Clocks it as an attachment to him which he is wary and confused about. Wary because he does not need another person idealizing him. Confused because why would the geth, Legion, chose him?
32. Any vices?
Smoking. When he’s Real Sad he breaks out the specific brand of cigars his dad owned.
33. Is Shepard free with affection, or more reserved?
Very reserved but will hold hands or have and arm around Tali’s waist. He lets her do most of the initiating and how much he’s willing to let her do is dependent on where they are. In private where it’s just the two of them? He’s free game for anything. Around the crew is a bit more reserved, but they do occasionally cuddle in front of them. Out in public is just simple hand holding or around the shoulders/waist.
34. Are there any people out there that betrayed Shepard? How do they handle it?
There are! Trusts few and far between but if you get his loyalty, boy would he do anything for you. Some people have betrayed him and he has killed them. Beats himself up for not seeing it/letting it happen. Continues to isolate himself.
35. Is your Shepard a biter? (Interpret this as you will)
Yes. In every way.
36. What is their relationship with Wrex?
They get on as well, both disillusioned killing machines. Knows that he can learn from Wrex.
37. Does Shepard have any friendships that surprise the rest of the crew?
Tali is a surprise given she’s a rather ‘sunshine’ character and they end up together. Not a lot of people expect Simon to have friends, let alone a significant other.
38. If Shepard is dropped into the middle of the wilderness for a week, how do they handle it?
He has training for exactly this. He’s golden. Likes the solitude.
39. Does Shepard have a will? What do they want done with their body after they’ve passed?
In his will, he’s just left everything to his brother, and when he died, to Anderson. Along with a charity. He wants to be cremated before and after his revival. He doesn’t want anyone touching his body.
40. How does your Shepard react, when Liara tells them she’s the one that handed their body over to Cerberus?
Loses all trust he placed in her. Keeps her at a distance and only puts up with her because of she’s a powerful ally.
41. They’ve been caught in the rain! How does Shepard react?
Doesn’t give it enough energy to be mad about. Just immediately accepts he’s gonna get drenched. (he also looks really good wet;)
42. How does Shepard handle the reporters? What are they like in an interview?
Does not handle reporters. PR learned very fast not to let him speak to anyone cause he is an asshole. Does not care. In an interview he is short and to the point, only answering a little as possible. No reporter or interviewer can crack this guy.
43. What was the clone’s fate? Do you think Shepard and their clone could coexist?
Fuck the clone, they’re dying. They’re not going to survive, not after the shit they pulled. He decidedly doesn’t think about it.
44. What’s the perfect date to sweep Shepard off their feet?
Full on romance. Candles and rose petals, draw a nice bath, message and head scritches? Falling in love as you speak. He’s a romantic at heart, just is very awkward and anxious about showing it and asking for it. Luckily for him, Tali is also a romantic.
45. How many unread emails are in their inbox?
He reads his emails. Regrets it immediately, but reads them when he notices he has them. Checks every day.
46. What does your Shepard get competitive over?
Sniping. Garrus never wins. Ever. Sparring: he’s gonna kick your ass. He doesn’t let anyone win.
47. What Museum is your Shepard going to? natural history, science, art… the zoo, aquarium?
Any tech museums out there. Will take Tali where she wants to go as long as he can prepare for the social interaction. That’s pretty much the only thing he will do that day social wise, besides picking up takeout.
48. What kind of a sleeper is Shepard? Sprawl out, hog the covers, octopus…. How many hours do they normally sleep?
Five is his usual, and he’s a light sleeper. Has to be, can’t let anyone get the drop on him. He is a paranoid bastard.
49. Do they have any morning or evening rituals?
Has tea in the morning because he hates coffee. He always showers before he sleeps if he can and that’s when he shaves.
50. What scents in particular draw Shepard in?
Anything crisp. I suck at smells.
+1 what, to your Shepard, is a good death?
A quick one. He always thought he would go in the field and preferred it, he just didn’t want it to be slow. Now, any death would be good is knows for sure that Tali is safe.
1. How often does Shepard use the omni-blade?
Often. He uses knives a lot given he’s an infiltrator. Wants his kills silent.
2. What does the Virmire Survivor think of Shepard?
I’m not entirely sure on which one he saves, but I’m leaning towards Ashley. She sees him as a man who will get things done and they share the same renegade out look on life for the most part. They’re both renegade but he’s bloodthirsty and ruthless, which I don’t really think she is. She’s an Alliance killer, he’s a killer plain and simple. So, I think she kinda uses him as an example of something to not become.
3. Top three comfort movies:
Ponyo. Doesn’t watch movies a lot.
4. How many languages can they speak (without the translator)?
Knows the most common languages in the galaxy for most species and of course, humans. So English, ASL, Mandarin, etc.
5. Does Shepard keep a log/journal?
On and off. It was a trick one therapist told him to do, because if he wasn’t going to talk out loud, he was going to write it instead. He tries but he has a fear someone will find it and read it so, on and off. It helps though. Which is why he keeps going back to it.
6. What kind of driver is Shepard?
Absolute shit. Does not have a license and people wonder how he made it this far. On a bike though, he’s good.
7. Shepard witnesses a petty crime. What is their response?
Either interrupts it to stop it or stays with the person until someone else can help them.
8. Revenge, or the high road?
Revenge baby! Will hunt you down and make you regret betraying him.
9. What will always distract them?
He will get sucked into a good book. Will come too hours later sore from being in the same position and be somewhat disorient because he was too enraptured by the book’s universe.
10. Does Shepard ascribe to any sort of faith?
He lost faith when his dad came back from the Alliance different. When slavers hit Mindoir.
11. Fondest childhood memory?
His mom telling him about her plants as she gardens, he’s cleaning his rifle, and his dad is grilling. It’s nice and calm. His Aunt’s family is going to be over soon and they’re going to have fun.
12. Most embarrassing adult memory?
Fell off his sniper perch. His unit at the time never let him live it down.
13. What does Shepard choose to do about Gavin Archer?
That fucker’s dead as soon as he frees David. He is pissed to the highest degree.
14. Is Shepard the type to gossip?
Doesn’t share but will always listen and gather material. Doesn’t use it quite often btu he always has something on you.
15. How does Shepard react to Garrus’s Archangel reveal?
Dismayed because Garrus is following his footsteps and he doesn’t want that for him. Glad he ahs someone he can trust though, finally.
16. What was the N7 program like for Shepard?
Solitary. Wasn’t there to make friends and didn’t, except one. They’re dead by the time the games start. Pushed himself to make himself better and that’s why he made it to rank seven.
17. Go-to karaoke song?
He doesn’t do karaoke but if he has too, come as you are by Nirvana probably.
18. What choice does Shepard make on Rannoch?
He gets both fleets by shouting cause fuck everything about this situation. But if push came to shove, the geth fleets would have been wiped out. He’s keeping Tali, no matter the cost.
19. Which kind of reaper do they think is the ugliest?
Harbinger. Punk ass.
20. Can they dance?
Can waltz, swing, pole and lap dance.
21. What is Shepard’s relationship with Hackett?
That’s his superior who is… okay. He’s had worse, he’s had better. He doesn’t give a shit unless Hackett fucks him over. Unless that day arrives, he does what he’s told to do.
22. What’s their alignment? Paragon, renegade, a mix…
Total renegade except for some paragon moments. Cures the genophage for example. He’s not about to wipe out an entire race.
23. Got any allergies? How bad?
Mangos and it’s deadly.
24. When’s their birthday, and how old are they?
He’s the canon age and birthday, April 11, 2154. He’s twenty-eight when me1 starts.
25. Trash talk or potty mouth?
Swears like a sailor and will trash talk when he’s teasing and feeling playful. Otherwise its genuine critiques that you should learn from.
26. What’s their temper like?
He will give you one warning and only one when you’re pissing him off. Gets irritated pretty easily but can push it away and move on in most cases.
27. What does Shepard think of Bakara?
Thinks she’s so cool. Loves hearing more about Krogan culture and learning about it. Thinks she’s a total badass and likes that she pushes Wrex around.
28. A reoccurring nightmare:
Tali dying in his arms like Celine (his cousin) did.
29. Which news correspondent/journalist does Shepard bring on the Normandy? What’s their relationship like?
He does not bring any reporters on the Normandy.
30. Who’s got the biggest crush on Shepard?
Besides Tali? Probably James. Learns that no matter how big James is, Simon is bigger and can throw him around. Realizes he likes that, but he’s actually totally cool about his ‘crush’. Especially when he learns about Tali. He moves on. Hes got Ashley to boss him around.
31. What kind of relationship do they have with Dr. Chakwas? Which doctor do they bring her on board for 3, and why?
She is his mother! Won’t admit it though, same thing with Anderson. They’re close and he goes to her for advice, especially in 2. She’s the one to tell him he’s doing the right thing and that he’s okay. So yeah, Chakwas is the doc in 3.
32. Who has Shepard’s grudging respect?
Aria. Hates merc leaders and that’s what she is. She’s good at it though and he knows there will always be people like her. She’s at least instilling some order on the chaos.
33. Reaction to the window over their sr-2 bed?
Fucking hates it but it doesn’t really do anything to him.
34. Does Shepard want children?
No. He doesn’t want to fuck them up and being responsible for people in the military already gives him conniptions does not want to know what a child will do to him. But if that ever changes- BEST DAD. He is so soft and loving. Total push over because he just wants to do everything for them and not give them any traumatic memories.
35. What does Shepard consider their greatest mistake?
Torfan. Hates that he let so many of his men die. The mission comes first for him, always, but he doesn’t like killing his men needlessly. Doesn’t want anyone alone, so if he can he stops that. Torfan made him realize that.
36. Did Shepard enjoy the heists with Kasumi?
Yeah. Let’s fuck over a rich mercenary who robbed you. Does not like dressing up or going undercover, but hey he killed Hock: makes it worth it.
37. Does Shepard ever play matchmaker?
No. He doesn’t want anyone fiddling in his life, he tries not to do the same to others. Now, if two people are being complete oblivious idiots, he’ll slap them upside the head. But other than that, he stays out of it.
38. A silly daydream:
Taking care of a garden like his mom taught him.
39. What kind of media do they consume the most?
Books. Any kind of book really.
40. Favorite ice cream flavor?
Any berry.
41. If Shepard has a LI, what would they say are a couple of Shepard’s flaws? And strengths?
A couple flaws is that he isolates and shuts down, doesn’t let Tali in so they can work on the problem together. He has pretty shitty self-worth and Tali feels almost insulted that he thinks she thinks the same way about him.
A couple strengths would be his determination and intelligence, how much he cares. His loyalty.
42. Are they quick to laugh, or slow to smile?
Slow to smile. It’s a very rare thing, to get a Simon smile. A genuine one, at least. He will snort or smirk if you fail in a spar or something like that.
43. What does it take to earn Shepard’s trust?
Prove your capable and that you share the same goals as him and in how to accomplish them. Show him you’re steady and he’ll be the same with you.
44. Top three people shepard thinks are hotties:
-Tali obviously
-There’s this one asari rapper/singer and he def watches concerts on the extranet of her
-Nihlus
45. What’s the easiest way to gross them out?
He doesn’t like watching needle insertion. He can handle them except for that.
46. What are some of their favorite combo moves with team members out on the field?
Lift/throw someone in the air and will shoot them. It’s very fun for him. Also, setting things on fire and then making them explode.
47. Can they forgive easily, or are they the type to hold a grudge?
Doesn’t necessarily forgive and he definitely does not forget. Prove you’re not going to do whatever again and he’ll let it go but he won’t ever make it clear that he’s okay with whatever happened. He’s willingly to move on, things are just going to be different now.
48. Does Shepard have a good sense of direction?
Yes! He’s a soldier, of course.
49. Did they enjoy their party on the Citadel?
For the most part, yeah. It was nice having the people he genuinely likes literally hanging out.
50. What is Shepard’s ending?
Control. He’s kinda control freak and he feels he can get what he wants accomplished done this way. So, he takes control of the Reapers actually learns about the and kills them from within. That also kills him along with them. (or does it??)
+1 …got any kinks?
Cock warming, biting and marking, come marking too. Wants to tell everyone they’re his. With Tali’s suit he can’t really, but they both know what’s under there. Is a switch. Likes having control so he can make sure everyone is being pleasured correctly but he can let go of the reigns and just go mindless for a little while, where he doesn’t have to worry about anything because he knows Tali will take care of him. Tali called him sir once in bed and he lost it. Size difference.
1. When was the last time Shepard cried?
He last time he cried was right before he died because he doesn’t want to leave Tali but he is. Before that was before they hit the point of no return and he confessed how scared he was about the outcome of the war to Tali. And the time before that was Alchera. He cried at his grave.
2. First impression of Miranda—and does it change?
He doesn’t like nor trust her but can respect her. He does eventually trust her and end up liking her throughout me2 and three.
3. The game Shepard will always win:
Darts and poker. That one game where you splay your head and stab a knife through each finger while getting progressively faster? Yeah. Never misses.
4. Do they like living on a ship?
Prefers to be planet side because most of the time he’ll get an actual room to himself, but he likes traveling and not staying in one spot for too long, so he handles the close proximity. Climbing through the ranks has perks.
5. What skills come naturally to them?
Being still and silent. Despite his rather large stature he can make himself disappear.
6. What abilities have they worked hard to hone?
His tech, he’s constantly learning new things and he’s so good at it because he’s put a lot of time into practicing. He likes it and that’s why he keeps at it.
7. The very first time they killed someone:
It was when Mindoir was attacked. He and his cousin Celine set out to find his parents, slavers found them and he fought back. Killed for Celine and kept killing for her when she died.
8. Shepard walks into a bakery. What do they order?
The most chocolate item they have. Along with cherry tea.
9. How did they feel about being promoted to Spectre?
Hates the publicity it gives him, but if it’ll give him the power to do his job correctly, than how can he complain?
10. Favorite drinking buddy and why:
Chakwas because she gets fun and Jacob because he is also very amusing (Jacob likes doing karaoke and he’s good) when drunk. He doesn’t let himself get drunk with them often.
11. What does Samara think of Shepard?
That this poor guy is fucked up. Doesn’t agree with some of his choices, but he too lives in black and white like her. They’re own codes are actually similar.
12. Where do their thoughts linger? The past, present, or future?
Definitely the past and in how he can be better, not make any more mistakes. Or at least, repeat them. He doesn’t let himself dream of a good future.
13. It’s Shepard’s turn to cook. What’s on the menu? How does it go?
He’s not great but he can take care of himself. Basic stuff and basic ingredients. A main dish with a couple sides, he has everything for your nutritional needs, it’s just nothing fancy. He stopped almost burning the kitchen down a while ago its fine.
14. Describe Shepard’s funeral:
Filled with more people than he thought. Chakwas is actually crying the entire time, both times. She gets his flag for the first funeral, and Tali gets the second along with his dog tags.
15. What draws Morinth to Shepard?
How brutal he is protecting the innocent bar goers. He makes it clear its his way or the highway and she likes a person who knows what they want. He’s also hot and built.
16. How well does Shepard know Kai Leng?
Oh, I’m thinking they served together for a bit and actually became friends. But Leng got slotted for some black ops and he went in a different direction. Come to find out he betrays the Alliance and well, learning it’s the guy who he trusted to have his life back in the day is now trying to ruin him, well, he’s even more angry than Leng usually inspires in people.
17. During a mission, Shepard breaks an arm. Badly. How do they handle it?
He tries to handle it himself and doesn’t make a big production out of it. Refuses help unless he actually needs it and Tali convinces him.
18. Three rumors about Shepard:
-He’s an emotionless monster (he’s not)
-That’s he’s killed people for just touching his knives (he broke their fingers, tow very different things)
- That he doesn’t have any family (he doesn’t. until Tali)
19. Table manners?
He has manners thank you very much but he’s also in the miliary so…
20. What was their first reaction to seeing their glowing scars in 2?
How fucked up is fucked up? That’s fucked up. Hates that he has such visible proof that he died and wasn’t able to rest. That Cerberus has something over him.
21. Why did Nihlus choose to nominate Shepard as a Spectre candidate?
Simon proves he gets results, and that’s what he’s looking for. He’s also not afraid ot get himself dirty for the greater good.
22. Describe their posture:
Pristine. Stands at attention or parade rest all the fucking time. He’s disciplined extremely well.
23. Was Shepard born to lead, or was command hoisted upon them?
He doesn’t want to lead but it comes naturally to him, and others noticed. He can take that position, but he can also follow.
24. Do they fall in love easily?
No. But falls very hard and with everything he has. Very loyal and truly tries his best which is noticeable.
25. Does Shepard dream of the starchild, or does it take a different form?
If we’re keeping the youth factor, it’ll probably be his cousins, Celine and Colin. But if not, it just cycles through the people he got killed or the people he’s afraid of losing.
26. A lesson that was hard to learn:
Some price’s aren’t worth paying.
27. Who was their first crush?
A boy from the colony in his classes. They would study together and his name was Riley. Nothing ever happened before Mindoir.
28. How do they feel about all the new cybernetics Miranda installed?
Doesn’t like that his body is not the same but enjoys the boosts and that he’s better (harder, stronger, faster~)
29. Does Shepard remember dying?
He remembers every second of it up to him losing consciousness.
30. One of the dumbest things they’ve ever done:
Getting into drugs. Hindsight, he hates that he let himself do and go through that.
31. What is their favorite story to tell? The one that they get such a kick outta sharing that the gang could probably recite it from memory by now.
Probably a story about this trick shot he is insanely proud of. I don’t really think he tells much about his life, but he has go to jokes. They crew could probably recite those.
32. What kind of drunk is Shepard? Affectionate, weepy, belligerent…
Gets super affectionate and emotional. Wants love and needs to make sure the people he cares about knows he cares because he can’t let them not know that and have them die. He also reveals how little he thinks of himself so.
33. Describe their laugh:
Short, quiet, and husky. Sharp sometimes. Hard to get him to have a belly laugh. But he also silently laughs at his own jokes cause he thinks they’re hilarious (they’re not) and it took a while for the crew to notice. They don’t really jab at him about it cause they want him to laugh.
34. What was it like, facing a reaper on foot?
Exhilarating as it is terrifying. Just because he’s used to staring death in the face doesn’t mean he likes it. He doesn’t let himself freak out until later, when everything is said and down and he can let his hands shake.
35. Are there any friendships that form among the crew that surprises Shepard?
Zaeed and Samara, because he truly doesn’t think Zaeed is worthy of Samara and that she knew that.
36. What sort of thrills do they purposely seek out?
Anything with adrenaline. He’s a junkie about it.
37. The first speech Shepard ever gave. How’d it go?
The speech was fine, if dry. Before and after he had anxiety attacks about it, but no one ever knew.
38. Do they celebrate holidays? Which is their favorite?
Doesn’t really, but he can be persuaded to go to a party. Probs Saint Patrick’s day ‘cause everyone drinks.
39. Longest friendship?
Joker. They met before the Normandy though, serving on another ship.
40. What does Udina think of Shepard?
Thinks he’s a bastard (it’s mutual) and doesn’t want to deal with him (also mutual). Wants to use him for his own agenda and figures he’ll try to stay on his bad side if only because he genuinely afraid of Simon coming after him (which he does).
41. If they were sent back to any moment in time, when would it be, and what would they change?
Mindoir or Trofan. Save the people he lost. His family and his unit. Tries to save them and not be so alone in the galaxy.
42. What song is their anthem?
Paint it, Black by The Rolling Stones
43. They come into an insane amount of money. How do they spend it?
Gear and then charity.
44. What sort of relationship does Shepard have with the council?
Fuck ‘em. Professional though. He’s their subordinate and he acts like it. Mostly. He hangs up on them though.
45. Three things Shepard is bad at:
-Telling a good joke
-Art
-Driving
46. Favorite candy?
Anything hard and cherry
47. Who is Shepard’s date to the Citadel party?
Tali! They have a good time together.
48. What is Thane’s fate?
Simon intervenes in his fight with Leng but he still ends up dying because he’s sick and running around the Citadel from Cerberus put too much strain on him.
49. What’s the perfect lazy-day shore leave?
He sleeps in, as a home-cooked breakfast after his jog and gets to read in his comfy clothes while cuddling with Tali.
50. What’s do they think of the leviathan?
Fucking assholes. They got too arrogant and decided to pay god and got fucked in the process. Shouts at them till they agree to help and then washes his hands of them. Does not care if they die out.
I am using @spookyvalentine first list of questions which you can find here. Enjoy!
ETA: the rest of the answered questions can be found here!
1. Why did Shepard enlist? Any regrets?
He enlisted bc his dad was former Alliance and after the attack on Mindoir, he was feeling untethered and he wasn't as interested in plants like his mom was. He already had the skills (sniper and self defense training from his dad (admittedly not as in depth as your regular soldier of course)
2. How does your Shepard feel about having a yeoman assigned to them in 2? And in 3?
Chambers he doesn't like. He doesn’t want someone analyzing him, especially not Cerberus. She's good for administration stuff but her psychological part of her job? Get away from him.
Traynor is great, eager and hard working, he doesn't mind her.
3. What’s their relationship with Anderson?
Captain Anderson? Nah captain DAD. Simon won't admit it, and the one time he did call Anderson dad he almost punched him as he tried to retreat. Anderson is the one that found him on Mindoir and has been watching his alliance career since.
4. Is your Shepard any good at poker?
Yes, and he has one of the best poker faces out there. Cleans his crew out and does not have any mercy
5. How well does Shepard know their crew? Not just the companions, but the folks making up the Normandy.
Not entirely well, he's very anti social but he's a great listener, especially when you think he isn't. The definition of the guy that knows everything about you, but you know next to nothing about him.
6. Initial reaction to EDI? Does it change?
Doesn't trust EDI bc of Cerberus, not bc she's an AI. Eventually warms up to her. When she's proven himself, he's ready to go to bat for her.
7. Does their love interest move into their quarters?
Tali moves in around halfway through me3 after she joins. He very much likes his space but he loves her and wants her with him always so he's worked on sharing his space.
8. What is their reaction to the Alchera mission? And after?
He’s pissed because the Alliance didn’t care for their dead but he doesn’t hesitate to go there. He spends a long time in the wreckage of the Normandy, being reminded of Mindoir and the burned wreckage of his colony and family. After, he’s even more reserved and quiet afterwards, dealing with this entirely alone. He died but he’s here now, when out of everyone, there were better people to bring back. Worthy people. He deals with a lot of hate and survivor’s guilt.
9. What type of fighter is your shepard? Do they fight with honor, or do they fight dirty?
Absolute dirty fighter. Will do practically anything to win the fight. Biter, scratcher, will kick you in the balls. Uses knives/omni-blade a lot. Pops into existence next to, stabs you in the neck and disappears again.
10. Does Shepard keep any pets? The hamster, fish, something else?
No. Doesn’t have time and doesn’t want to risk not being able to properly take care them and have them de because of him.
11. What order does Shepard pick up companions in me2?
Zaeed, Garrus, Mordin, Grunt, Kasumi, Jack.
12. Does Shepard have any nicknames? What do they think of ‘em?
Some people can call him, Shep. Lets people call him the Butcher of Torfan bc it helps his reputation and dissuades people from talking to him. He doesn’t care what people think of him (except when he does) and if they want to be afraid of him- fine. He’ll use it to his advantage. Same thing with people calling him ghost or specter like bc of how good he is with stealth despite his size.
13. How does your Shep react to teasing/ribbing?
Shuts it down for the most part, and only certain people can tease him. Lets Joker, and Tali. Wrex immedaitely has a pass bc it’s *Wrex* and because Simon likes him. Garrus gets there in me3. Anderson is allowed to but he doesn’t really.
14. Any good at flirting?
Can dish it out but gets flustered if anyone he actually likes (whether platonically or romantically/sexually) does it back. Can actually be suave and charming when he wants to
15. What colors does Shepard prefer for their armor?
Black.
16. Is Shepard a drinker? History of other substances? Do they struggle with sobriety?
Yes, he does drink. Doesn’t get drunk bc he likes being n control of his faculties. So, it’s very rare to actually see him drunk. He did do drugs when he was a teenager, after Mindoir but managed to get clean. Smokes when he’s truly stressed.
17. How does Shepard react to attention? Do they enjoy it?
Does not like attention. Would rather stay in the shadows and not be noticed. If people pay attention to him, they’ll learn about him, and he doesn’t want that.
18. Who’s the dream team? Which companions does Shepard fight best with and why?
Me1: Ashley and Wrex. They’re both tanks and good at what they do, he’s got their backs with his sniper. They’re both also renegade but he does enjoy sniping lifted enemies, curtesy of Liara and Kaidan. He can work and play off of just about anyone.
Me2: Jacob he works really well with, with his biotics and military training, along with Samara. Thinks its very cool he’s working with a Justicar.
Me3: Loves working with Javik.
He can work with just about anyone, he’s used to fitting into whatever team he’s assigned.
19. Are there any companions your Shepard just absolutely cannot vibe with or relate to?
20. Does Shepard enjoy looking for resources and upgrading gear, or do they see it as a chore?
Sees it as a chore but knows if he wants the good stuff he’s gotta go looking for it. It’s simple and easy though, so he enjoys the quietness of the task.
21. Do you have any AUs for your Shepard?
Not really an au, but Simon and @jtownnn Celine are cousins. With Celine dying in Simon’s during the Mindoir raid and Celine not even meeting Simon in her canon.
22. What’s the last thing Shepard ate before the final reaper showdown?
Had his favorite tea (cherry) and a nice ass steak.
24. Who does Shepard turn to for advice? For comfort? Who do they like to gossip with?
Goes to Anderson for advice and then Chakwas when he’s not readily available. This is of course, when he finally gets over himself and asks. For comfort, he goes to Joker the guy will lift his spirits in some way along with Tali. He gossips but in the sense that he listens to everything but doesn’t contribute anything unless it helps him in some way or he thinks it’s funny. So, Kasumi is great but Mordin also is very well versed in what’s going on.
25. How emotionally articulate is your Shepard? Do they emote well?
He totally doesn’t. Does not like talking about his emotions and would rather avoid than deal with them. He’s not very vulnerable often and only when he feels he’s safe. Or if he feels he has too.
26. Does your Shepard have a romance? Who are they, and what drew Shep to them?
Tali. What drew Simon to her, especially since he doesn’t do romance, is her intelligence and her drive. She’s unapologetically kind while also kicking your ass.
27. Do they have any pet peeves?
Does not like small talk. Will just not say anything until you get the hint and stop trying to engage conversation with him. Loud chewers too. Fuck that.
28. What about hyperfixations? What’s the topic that will get Shepard rolling no matter the person or place?
Snipers. Can go in depth about them and their manufacturing. Also, his tech. Like ask good questions, he will answer them.
29. How active is Shepard? Are they hitting the gym, playing sports, or do they prefer quieter downtime?
Working out is how he calms down and relaxes himself for the most part. He likes it and is Built because of it (think James but 6’4)
30. What will always make them laugh?
Puns and dad jokes.
31. Who can always make them laugh?
Tali and Joker.
32. What do they do when they have hit their limit angry, just incandescent with rage?
Just completely shuts down. This is after the shouting and the pacing, just shuts down and depending on the situation, walks away.
33. What skills do they have that are a surprise to the people around them?
He knows all about plants and specifically flowers because of his mom. He just also knows random bits of trivia- like if you have question about something, chances are he knows the answer or knows how to get the answer.
34. Got any tattoos?
He’s got a half-sleeve on his left forearm but I’m not entirely sure what its going to be of.
35. Which companions have they lost? How do they cope with it?
I’m thinking he chooses to save Ashley on Virmire along with the canon deaths: Mordin, Thane, and Legion. He doesn’t like losing his men under him, and truly does his bets to bring everyone under his command back. Mission comes first though, so he tries to minimize casualties. He carries their deaths with him always, making his survivor’s guilt worse and they haunt him. It validates him in staying away from others and to continue to his best even though he think he’s horrible.
36. Do they like to style their hair, wear makeup and jewelry? How do they feel about getting dressed up?
He keeps his hair cropped military style, lightly buzzed on the sides and just long enough to flop onto his forehead but not in his eyes. Gels when he has to for like formal shit. He wears greasepaint when he’s out in the field around his eyes. Has numerous piercings in his ears, tongue, and nipples. He wears his helmet a lot so he can hide his piercing most of the time. He also only shows skin to others when he has to. (I am debating whether he has his dick pierced or not)
Doesn’t really like getting dressed up but does like the attention Tali gives him when he does. He likes it when she stares back at him.
37. Got any bad habits?
He smokes, he drinks, he avoids emotions and people.
38. Does Shepard do any activities with the companions and crew during downtime?
Card games. Working out. Sparring. He takes care of his gear with the others but it’s mainly just companionable silence.
39. Do they keep around any sentimental items?
Has a friendship bracelet with Celine. Dog tags from the people that he was close to.
40. Does your Shepard actually like to collect model ships? If not, what do they display?
He’s like Thane in displaying his snipers. He does collect the ships but not as an avid collector. He likes using his hands to make them.
41. How is Shepard with a gun? What about hand to hand?
Phenomenal with weapons and hand to hand. The guy you want training you even though he’s a complete hard-ass. The field isn’t going to be nice to you to show you mercy, neither will he.
42. Favorite weapon?
Loves the valiant and black widow from 3, and the Punisher from 1.
43. Which version of the Normandy do they like best?
The first because the second reminds him of how he fucked up.
44. Do they like to rotate out companions for quests? Who do they bring the most?
He does try to rotate people out so everyone get experience in and get their adrenaline out or whatever. But if he feels the mission calls for a specific someone, he’s gonna bring them with him. Brings Wrex the most in 1, Samara in 2, and Javik in 3.
45. Do they approve of curing the genophage?
Normally, he wouldn’t care but he’s put in the position of deciding its fate and no matter how ruthless and cutthroat he is, can’t justify destroying a whole race. He has the power to change this and does. He trusts Wrex.
46. Does Shepard allow the rachni to live in me1?
Again, can’t justify destroying a whole race even though everything in him is screaming at him to kill the rachni.
47. Does Shepard practice any kind of self-care?
No. He doesn’t not take care of himself, but he doesn’t go out of his way, like face masks or whatever. He does splurge on his favorite tea though.
48. What abilities do they rely on the most in a fight?
His cloak. He can disappear with or without but the cloak gives him that assurance no one can see him. Knives too.
49. What is Shepard’s happy ending? What’s the dream that keeps em going?
At first, he doesn’t have a dream. For a long time, he just expects to go out in combat; that he won’t make it to retirement. Then he falls in love with Tali and her dream is now his. He’ll fight so she can continue to live, to build that home on Rannoch.
