This build was heavily inspired by THeMooN85's Clear as Crystal! [Gara] build with some small changes. I highly recommend checking them out, they have some really deep insights on what makes [Gara] good.

With this configuration of [Gara], we rely on Nourish to boost energy gains from orbs and other sources to fuel [Gara]'s abilities. Archon shards are very important to make this build work and will be discussed later. Our primary source of damage reduction is [Adaptation] and, more importantly, Splinter Storm. At just 130% ability strength, splinter storm grants us a 90% damage reduction that stacks with [Adaptation]. Even better, we can cast Splinter Storm on allies and defense objects (the damage reduction is capped at 50% on defense objects). When the duration of Splinter Storm is nearing its end, cast Mass Vitrify to refresh Splinter Storm's duration. Then, use shattered lash to destroy Mass Vitrify and add to Splinter Storm's damaging aura. Rinse. Repeat.

You'll want no less than 130% ability strength. If you wanna max [Overextended] and [Narrow Minded] like I have; you'll need two "+ Ability Strength" archon shards to make up the difference. If you're struggling with energy management, a "+Effectiveness on Energy Orbs" archon shard can help. "+ Ability Duration" archon shards are always nice if you don't know what else to socket but probably unnecessary here. Molt Efficiency also helps with ability duration and is supported by [Brief Respite]. I'm experimenting with Arcane [Guardian] but keep in mind that armor does not reduce damage to shields, only health.

Here's my recommended archon shards for this configuration:

• 2x "+ Ability Strength"
• 2x "+ Ability Duration"
• 1x "+ Effectiveness on Energy Orbs"