W.i.t.G
What's up guys?
Hope you're all enjoying the story so far!
This chapter will act as a transitional part of the story. To address the fears of some readers:
No. I don't mean for Tali to become some sort of isolated Shepard addict. She will bond with the others. My story will try to emphasise that transition. For example, did anybody else notice how, in the games, after a few missions, everybody was believed to be close friends? I don't get that personally. So! I'm going to try and show how it came about. Hopefully...
Onwards and upwards!
"You know..." Joker began, his voice dripping with sarcasm as he launched a verbal attack through the comm at Shepard:
"It's been scientifically proven, that star-ships don't function that well when exposed to freaking lava! What was that, Commander?! Come on! That was way too close! My baby can't land in exploding volcanoes. The lava tends to melt the hull, and fry the sensors. Just putting that out there, you know... For future reference!"
As soon as the squad had been brought aboard the Normandy, Shepard and Tali had both been escorted to the med-bay first.
Under the supervision of the motherly Doctor Chakwas, the commander had been given an epinephrine adrenaline shot to help relieve some severe symptoms of exercise-induced anaphylaxis. In addition, Chakwas had also begun to treat the commander's shoulder wound after his skirmish on Therum. Although the wound had been tended to for the most part, Shepard had made his excuses to leave the med bay as soon as possible. His sudden burst of energy wouldn't last for long; just long enough for Shepard to complete his briefing, as well as to try and gain some information from Dr T'Soni.
After that... Shepard would need a long rest to combat his fatigue.
'Adrenaline's good at keeping you awake, but my shoulder stings like a bitch... I should have taken Chakwas up on her offer for some additional painkillers.'
Tali, however, had been simply left to rest in the med-bay, the ordeal completely draining her. Once the commander had checked that she was fine, he had ordered a full mission debriefing in the communications/briefing room. All squad members, apart from Tali, were to attend including Dr T'Soni.
Once in the briefing room, the commander had placed himself in the centre of the room, so he could better position himself so as to speak with his squad mates. Everybody was still armoured and armed, and all were waiting for Shepard to begin. When he was about to begin, Joker had decided to intervene, both verbal barrels aimed at Shepard.
'Apparently, pilot's don't like their ships being put near environmental hazards. Should remember that for next time.' Shepard could only chuckle quietly before he spoke up in the room:
"Alright Joker, I get it. You can catch your breath now. Get us near a communications array, and get me a secure line with the Council."
Joker simply retorted, "Yes sir. Oh! And another thing!"
'Here we go...' Shepard placed his face in his hands, as he waited for another attack from the pilot:
"I prefer gold to silver! Y'know, for the medal I'm going to get for pulling your ass out of the fire... I am going to get one right? It's only fair after all."
Shepard smirked as he folded his arms across his chest, humour lacing his words as he replied, "I'll get you a chocolate medal if you want. You can have both silver and gold, Joker... I know that pilot's get distracted by colourful things after all; like Fornax..."
A few chuckles came from the direction of Garrus, Wrex and Kaidan. Ashley was simply not amused, and Liara just looked bewildered.
Joker barked out a laugh before he replied, his tone suggesting he had been beaten, "Aye aye, Commander smart-ass. Let me know when you want the Council."
"Don't you forget it either Joker! Shepard out." Shepard cut the comm in the briefing room, as he turned around to face his squad mates once more.
"Now, for the debriefing... I want to start with-" Shepard was cut off, as at that moment, a loud echoing knock came from the locked comm room door. With a puzzled expression, Shepard moved towards the door to see what it was.
Tali stood outside the comm room door, one of the rooms Tali could remember due to the tour that the commander had given them. Tali stood with her hands at her sides, and her body as stiff as a board. She had just knocked on the door, as was the proper thing to do.
'I hope I haven't missed the meeting. I should do what the Gunnery Chief did as she approached Chris. It's the right thing to do...' Tali thought, as she waited for the doors to open.
After a few moments, the doors opened, revealing a sight that Tali would never tire of... Her saviour.
Chris looked at Tali with confusion on his face, as the young Quarian remained stood in her position. After a few moments, with nothing happening, Chris spoke up, "Tali? Why aren't you getting any rest in the med-bay?" His tone held genuine concern, flushing her body with heat, as the usual emotions she had around the man came flooding in.
Tali could only stand and continue to stare at Shepard.
'He has such wonderful eyes, deep and warm, and... Wait! He asked a question Bosh'tet! Say something! Do what the Gunnery Chief did!'
Stuttering, Tali began to speak, her posture not relaxing, "T-Tali'Zorah nar Rayya; reporting for duty, Captain. I-I didn't want to miss the meeting."
Chris continued to stand in puzzlement, before a grin was plastered on his face, his features softening. A bark of laughter could be heard from Ashley, as she watched the spectacle with rapt attention. Everybody was now watching the Quarian woman standing at the doorway, who had become nervous and embarrassed in the presence of the man, in addition to the laughter emanating from Ashley's lips.
Tali felt humiliated.
'Stupid Bosh'tet... You're not human! Why try and be like one?!'
'S-So I can feel wanted...'
Tali's gaze fell down towards her feet, not wanting to look at Chris; not wanting to see the obvious disappointment on his face.
She began to shuffle her feet, her posture slumping; her fingers coming together at her waist in a mad frenzy.
What came next however, made Tali's spirits soar.
Chris simply stood at attention, and while giving a salute to Tali, he spoke, "Permission granted, Tali. Fall in." It was the whisper that came next, that truly turned her face into a furnace, "Better than Williams as well... You're showing humanity up Tali."
Tali's head rose at this, to regard the man's face. He was grinning at her, and with a wink, he moved to the side, allowing entry for her.
Tali beamed behind her mask, her depressing feelings having been forgotten.
Although she had become elated, a growing sense of sadness had crept up on Tali, a sadness that had been building. And with the thoughts, she nearly lost her elated mood altogether.
'There would never be anything between us... He's Commander Shepard. And I guess I'm just some vagrant, lousy Quarian. It's impossible...' A tear escaped her eye at this, as the logic of the situation supported that argument.
Sitting down next to Liara, Tali tried to perk herself up.
'At least I have my hopes... Immature hopes, but hopes nonetheless.' Tali did feel a bit better at this thought, the overwhelming sadness that was approaching had been forced into retreat.
Chris spoke up now, dragging Tali out of her inner turmoil once again:
"Right, now that we're all here..." He glanced across to Tali, giving her another wink. Tali's heart fluttered, and her mood became elated once more.
"To start off with, I just want to say how impressed I am with all of you. We were sent straight into the thick of it there, and I'm pretty happy with how the squad worked together. Saying that... I think I can help improve certain areas for each of you. Yes, even you Wrex." Chris chuckled as he looked towards the Krogan. Wrex smirked at the human before speaking:
"We'll see."
Shepard nodded his head as he continued, "I'll be coming around and talking to each of you individually. I don't have a schedule but I'll try and fit you in, in my spare time. Some people may need more help than others, so be patient with each other. You're not all up to my standard just yet." Shepard chuckled as he thought in his head who would need the most help. Some of the ground team smirked at the commander, taking his words seriously.
Those in the Alliance knew his accomplishments and feats.
It was standard legend for the grunts.
For Garrus, a quick extra-net search had brought up all he needed to know.
For Wrex, the commander's merits and accolades didn't measure up to Shepard's stand at Akuze against a pack of Thresher Maw's.
That, was what had gained Wrex's respect. For now.
Tali and Liara were the only ones who had no idea who the man truly was. Tali had a little bit of knowledge about him, but not as much as she would like.
Liara however, didn't have a clue what was happening.
Speaking quietly and meekly, Liara addressed the commander, "Commander, please forgive my insolence; I have little experience with your kind. Earlier, before the Quarian appeared..." Tali visibly tensed at the way the Asari had said her name, but looking across towards Chris, she calmed herself, allowing for the Asari to continue, "Why did the pilot make 'fun' of our near-death situation?"
Everybody turned towards the pair, unsure of what was to come next. Chris simply barked out a laugh, before folding his arms again, the wound in his shoulder starting to become excruciatingly painful now. He hoped nobody had seen the discomfort that had passed across his features for just a split second, "It's because he's an arsehole. But he's the best pilot in the Alliance. I suppose he's allowed to make shitty jokes every now and then. Keeps him happy at least..." Shepard said, as he simply smiled at the Asari woman.
Liara nodded her head, as she stared into Chris' face, almost as if she was evaluating it, before she replied, "I see... It must just be a human thing."
Chris just smirked at her, as he continued, "I suppose it is."
Silence reigned for a small amount of time, before the commander continued his conversation with the Asari woman, a serious tone underlying his next statement, "Well, Doctor T'Soni. I think its best if I introduce my self properly. I'm Commander Shepard, Alliance military."
Dr T'Soni bowed her head as she regarded the large marine, "Please Commander, just call me Liara."
Tali chirped up at the end of this, "And he's a Spectre! Humanities first!"
Chris bowed his head slightly in Tali's direction, "Thank you, Tali."
Tali simply nodded her head, as Liara looked upon the Quarian next to her in what appeared to be disgust, "Yes, well..." Turning her attention back to the more interesting human man in front of her, "I want to thank you Commander, for risking your life to save mine. I am truly grateful." Liara said, her tone thankful and full of gratitude.
Chris just smiled at Liara, his voice soft as replied, "You're welcome Dr T'Soni. I just did what needed to be done; everybody else deserves that thanks, not me."
The Asari woman nodded her head in response, before she turned slightly, addressing everybody in the room, "Thank you. All of you. I can't ever repay you for your generosity."
Ashley was getting annoyed now, and spoke up, her tone impatient, "Alright! Now that we have that out of the way, I think you should come clean about your involvement with Saren, Doctor."
'About as subtle as a brick to the face Ashley, Christ...' Chris mentally face-palmed at Ashley's comment. The commander relieved his throat, as tried to salvage the situation:
"I think what the Gunny's trying to say is," Chris glared at the woman, to which she shrunk into her seat, allowing Chris to continue, "I've been tasked with hunting down the ex-Spectre Saren Arterius, and it appears that your mother, Matriarch Benezia, has sided with Saren." Liara was physically taken aback at this, and was about to protest these absurd accusations, before the commander continued, "To this extent, I have come to find you in the hopes that you may know what Saren is planning."
Liara's face looked as if she had been physically hit.
Hard.
Reeling back, the Asari stuttered out her response, "I-I... Goddess... I haven't spoken to my mother in nearly twenty years. I-I had no idea..."
Shepard moved over towards the Asari; placing a hand on her shoulder, he spoke reassuringly, "I'm sorry that I had to break this news to you."
Liara chuckled nervously, before looking up into the face of the human, his features striking.
The main thing that the Asari could notice was the commander's eyes. They were simply comforting; sincere and warming to look at. The severe scars on his face should've been considered repulsive, and yet...
They were exotic.
Liara dragged herself out of her thoughts, and softly smiled in the direction of the commander, before she quietly spoke up, "You didn't know Commander. You don't have to apologise."
Silence reigned again once more, as Shepard nodded his head slowly in response; giving Liara's shoulder a gentle squeeze before moving back into the centre of the room.
Tali visibly bristled at the action, and silently seethed.
Something that didn't go unnoticed by Kaidan...
'Shepard! Keelah! Why do I... Why do I feel so angry at seeing that?! He's not even my mate! He's just my captain'
'Because he's your Nehya... Because you're starting Pemla'tiyl with him.'
Tali started to wring her fingers together, but a smile had still crept onto her face, as she regarded her oblivious Nehya.
'He may never want me... But, he's still my Nehya. It's down to him, whether or not that changes...'
Tali simply sat and listened to the conversation that was occurring, never taking her eyes off of Shepard.
'Blue Bosh'tet...'
"Now, Liara, do you think you could possibly offer me some assistance?"
"Of course, Shepard. I'll do anything I can to help." The Asari's voice was as sweet as Thessian honey as she regarded the man. Tali couldn't help her hands tensing into fists at this, and was oblivious to the actions of the Gunnery Chief, as she too visibly tensed.
Chris simply remained oblivious.
"Do you know anything about something called the 'Conduit'? Saren wishes to find it. It's imperative that we find out what it is first, and stop Saren from doing whatever it is he's planning."
Liara straightened at this, and spoke excitedly, her interest evident, "Only that it was somehow connected to the Prothean extinction. That's my real area of expertise. I have spent the past fifty years of my life trying to figure out what happened to them."" Ashley and Kaidan took on a bewildered expression; Garrus leant forwards, paying rapt attention to the conversation that was occurring; Wrex simply began to clean his shotgun, his interest having been lost a while ago.
Shepard nodded his head, as the painful images from the Prothean beacon started to return, making the pain in his shoulder barely noticeable. He tried to keep his voice level as he regarded Dr T'Soni, "Well, I think I might have something that could help you with that-"
Liara suddenly cut in, not allowing the commander to finish, "With all due respect, Shepard, I have heard every theory out there. The problem is finding evidence to support them. The Protheans left remarkably little behind. It's as if someone didn't want the mystery of their disappearance to be solved." Liara paused for a moment, before she spoke up again, her voice still portraying her excitement and pride, "But! Here is the incredible part! According to my findings, the Protheans were not the first galactic civilisation to mysteriously vanish! The cycle began long before them!"
Garrus snorted in disbelief, "Excuse me? Did you just say cycle? Yeah, that sounds pretty crazy to me..."
Liara replied patiently to the Turian, her countenance not expressing any anger or impatience, "The galaxy is built on a cycle of extinction. Each time a great civilisation rises up, it is suddenly and violently cast down. Only ruins survive. The Protheans rose up from a single world, until their empire spanned the entire galaxy. Yet even they climbed to the top on the remains of those who came before. I believe that their greatest achievements - the Mass Relays and the Citadel - are based on the technology of those who came before them. And then, like all other forgotten civilisations throughout galactic history, the Protheans disappeared. That is why, I have dedicated my life to figuring out why."
Everybody simply looked at the Asari, before Shepard spoke slowly, "So... If I said I knew what had happened to them, would you believe me?"
Liara stared incredulously at the commander, "Like I've said Shepard, I've heard every theory there is. Whatever you know, I have probably heard it before."
Shepard smirked at the woman as his growing headache from the beacon's images started to filter in, "It was the Reapers, a race of machines, that wiped out the Protheans."
Everything was silent, as everybody regarded the duo, with the exception of Tali, who was simply lost in her own fantasies. Liara spoke next, her voice slow and cautious as she began, "How... How do you know that? What evidence do you have?!" Liara practically demanded an answer at the end of her question as she began to stand up.
Shepard began to rub his neck with his right hand, as he began, "I don't know much, don't get me wrong. I just know what the beacon put into my head. It's all a bit fuzzy to be honest."
Liara fully stood up at this final statement, her voice displaying her passion, "Beacon?! Y-You don't mean... You were exposed to a Prothean beacon?!"
"Ta-da..."
"W-What? How? The beacons are not designed to interact with human physiology! I'm surprised you're able to understand any of it!" Liara exclaimed, as she began to get closer to the commander.
Tali was preparing herself to intervene.
"Is is really that bad?" Shepard said as he weakly chuckled.
"I-I am truly amazed, Shepard... A lesser mind would have been utterly destroyed in the process..." Liara got as close as she could, laying a hand on Shepard's arm, before in a quiet, almost seductive voice, she spoke, "You must be remarkably strong willed, Shepard. If you want, we could meld; if you need some assistance in ordering your thoughts, I can help."
The large marine simply stood, frozen to the spot, unsure of what he should do.
Tali stood up from her place, and crossed towards the pair, before slapping Liara's hand off of Shepard, a snarl emanating from her vocaliser.
Ashley joined in as well, "This isn't helping us find Saren! Or the Conduit!"
Liara glared at Tali, as she turned around and faced the Quarian. Tali's cognitive functions shut down, as something primitive took over. Splaying her feet, wide apart, Tali looked ready to pounce the Asari.
Kaidan could only watch in fascination, and understanding.
'That's my Nehya! Back off!'
Tali snarled behind her mask, as she regarded the Asari, an azure glow beginning to encapsulate the Asari.
Shepard moved towards Tali, and whilst placing a hand on her shoulder, he spoke softly, "Tali, what the hell's the matter?"
Tali instantly relaxed at the touch and at the sound of the voice speaking to her. Tali simply looked towards Chris' worried face, and mumbled meekly, whilst stumbling slightly, "I'm sorry, Captain. It was nothing. I'm just tired is all."
Chris just chuckled as he regarded the woman, "I did tell you to stay in the med-bay to get some rest... You should've listened to me."
Tali nodded her head, as she whispered to the man, "I'll go and get some after the briefing."
The young Quarian stood back up, and moved towards her seat, and as she sat down, her hands became engaged in a furious frenzy.
The only sound in the room was the quiet chuckling of Kaidan, as he watched the Quarian.
"So... That was a thing..." Shepard mumbled, as he looked at Liara once more, noticing what appeared to be a purplish tinge in her blue cheeks.
"We should be on our way to the Citadel now Dr T'Soni. Once we're there, you're free to do whatever you wish. The Normandy will only be docking for a short while, but feel free to stay aboard till we're about to disembark."
The Asari spoke quietly to the large human in front of her, her own feet shuffling nervously, "If it's at all possible, Commander, could I stay with you?" With a puzzled look from the commander, and another growl from across the room, she hastily added, "On the ship of course. My knowledge on the Protheans could be useful at a later date. And if we ever find Saren I wish to be there to confront my mother."
"Her biotics will be useful Shepard. Take that into consideration as well." Wrex added, his gravelly tone piercing the near silence in the room.
Shepard simply nodded his head. His headache, at the remembrance of the beacon's images, had become a dull, throbbing ache, and the wound in his shoulder had become almost unbearable.
"Welcome aboard, Liara." Shepard said quietly.
"Thank you, Commander. I am extremely grate- Oh!" At this Liara raised a hand to her forehead, as she stumbled backwards. It was only because of the commander's reaction times, and his grip on her arm, that prevented Liara from falling over.
Liara simply mumbled as she began to stand uneasily, "I-I... I'm feeling rather light-headed all of a sudden."
The commander spoke into the room hastily, hoping that his pilot was paying attention, "Joker?"
There was a click of the comm initiating, and then the pilot's voice filtered through, "You rang, Commander?"
"Send the Council a message. Tell them that they'll have to wait till we reach the Citadel for my debriefing. I've got things to attend to. Oh! And by the way, just to make sure, you did set course for the Citadel, right?"
"Of course I did! I'll let them know, Commander. Anything else?"
"Let Doctor Chakwas know that we have an added guest to the ship and that the room at the back of the med-bay should be prepped for her. I'm on my way down now anyway, for some painkillers."
"Aye sir Messages have been sent. Joker, out." With that, the comm cut out, and the room was engulfed in silence once more.
"Okay everyone, dismissed." The commander said, as he guided Liara to the door of the comm room.
Ashley, Wrex and Garrus simply got up and walked towards the door. Kaidan stayed behind for a moment, before leaving as well.
Tali, Liara and Chris remained in the comm room, and it was the large marine that regarded the Quarian woman first.
"I'm going to take Liara to the med-bay now, Tali. She'll be checked by Chakwas, for any problems. I want you to get examined as well. Come to the med-bay in about ten minutes. Is that good with you?"
Tali nodded her head, as she spoke up quietly, just enough for Shepard to hear, "Okay, Chris. I'll be there."
"Good." Chris softly smiled at the woman, as he guided the Asari to the med-bay, out of the comm room's door.
When Tali was left alone in the room, she couldn't help but place her head in her hands.
'Chris is ashamed of me, I can tell... Why did I get up?! Why did it hurt when I saw Liara move towards him?!'
The answer that came next flooded her body with emotion, both positive and negative:
'He's my Nehya... Well, at least I think he is. I remember what I was taught by the elders when I was younger, but they never mentioned it would be ever like this. I thought it would be relatively simpler... I need to talk to someone about this. Maybe Auntie Raan might know...'
Tali tried to imagine the scene that would occur, but the thought of Auntie Raan chastising her for having 'feelings' for her human captain caused her hands to unconsciously wring together.
After a few minutes, Tali was still sitting in the comm room, her mind racing as she began to prepare a message.
As she began to finish typing, a message suddenly came through on her omni-tool.
Checking the message, Tali began to softly smile.
The message was from Chris, and it read:
"Tali, Liara's in the back room of the med-bay now, getting some rest. You said you were tired earlier, could you please come down and get some of your own? I'm worried. I'll see you down in the med-bay. Chris."
Tali smiled as she saved the message to her omni-tool's storage, and picking herself up, Tali moved out of her chair, and towards the comm room door.
Walking out of the comm room, her body physically exhausted and in need of rest, Tali moved towards the med-bay. That was, until she was suddenly ambushed by Kaidan outside of the comm room.
"Is everything alright Miss Zorah?" Kaidan said, as he stood in the path of the Quarian woman.
Tali began to move around him, as she replied, "I'm fine Lieutenant. I'm just tired. That's all."
Kaidan, not missing a step, fell in beside Tali, as they continued towards the staircase. "So... What happened earlier? You didn't seem tired then. In fact, I'd say you were practically bursting with energy."
Tali stopped, and as she rounded on the lieutenant, she couldn't help the anger that laced her words. "I said, I'm fine Lieutenant. What happened earlier was a mistake. One that I wish I hadn't made." She hesitated before she ended her statement, not believing herself that her intervention was a mistake.
Kaidan smirked at the woman, as he crossed his arms over his chest. "Mistake, huh?"
Tali was now beginning to seriously lose her patience, "If you have something to say Lieutenant Alenko, say it."
"I'm just wondering why you're not admitting it. I mean, I know your race wears exo-suits, but you seem to have a lot more in common with humans than you realise."
'W-What does he mean by that?!'
Stuttering nervously, Tali gave voice to her inner conflict, as her fingers began to frenzy at her waist. "W-What do you mean, Lieutenant?"
Kaidan chuckled before he spoke softly in reply, "You know what I mean. I'm not as oblivious as Shepard is..."
'Ancestors... How does he know?'
"H-How? How do you..."
Kaidan smirked slightly as nonchalantly stretched his arms, "I can just tell. You're not exactly inconspicuous with your emotions. I guess you could say I had a hunch."
Tali nodded her head at this, unable to speak, as they began to walk down the stairs.
What Kaidan said next however, caused Tali to stop at the bottom of the stairs. "If you have these emotions for him, why don't you just let him know? Just tell him. What's the worst that could happen?"
'Is he being serious?'
Tali spoke incredulously at the marine Lieutenant, "Tell him?! How could I?! He would never take me seriously! He would never look at me like I look at him! H-He's Commander Shepard. Why would he want me?! He's probably got somebody already... It would never work out."
Kaidan barked out a laugh, whilst regarding the woman. They had moved over to his station, and he had drawn up the logistics reports for the marines stationed on the ship, as was his role; logistics officer of the marine detachment.
Tali glared at the man, causing him to speak up, "You're being serious? Goddamn... You're as dense as he is."
The young Quarian moved forward, her fists balled, ready to strike the insolent man, until he spoke next:
"I'm not going to say anything Miss Zorah. But I'll tell you one thing: He has no one right now. I'll tell you something else as well: you may not notice it, but I've known him longer-"
What came next, nearly drove Tali to the depths of her despair, her heart reaching out for Chris.
"-He's lonely. He puts a brave face on, but, underneath that cold hard exterior, The man's broken. Broken and alone. You won't realise it from the way he acts, but he's never really had anybody, except for one person. And she was brutally taken away from him."
Kaidan became passionate at this point, his tone colder, "So, don't ever think that the man would reject you. He needs somebody to be there. I'm his friend, and the way he lights up when you're near, tells me a lot. I learnt something about the man, that has driven my respect for him to higher levels. Don't ask me what it is; I'm not going to tell you. That's his choice. But know this: don't think that you're 'not worthy' enough for him. If you could see what I could. You'd realise how ridiculous you really sound."
Tali was simply speechless.
Kaidan sighed heavily, and spoke next, his voice warmer, "Anyway... I just wanted to let you know. I know what's going on. I think the Commander wants to see you in the med-bay. You must be exhausted after the mission. I'll let you go."
Tali mumbled out a reply, as she turned towards the med-bay, "I-I-I didn't even know..."
Kaidan reached out, and grabbed the Quarian's shoulder, spinning her round to face him. Kaidan spoke up now, his voice quiet and yet deadly serious, "Remember what I've said. You think he doesn't watch you? You think he doesn't brighten when you enter the room?! You should have seen the expression on his face before you came in the room. It was as if somebody had just died. He cracked a slight smile when he was speaking to Joker, but that was about it."
Tali held her breath, as what came next, shut Tali's brain down.
"You matter to him. If you matter to him, then don't think you're not worthy. He's just like everybody else. His blood's red; he's got two arms and two legs; he's got one heart and one soul if you believe in that kind of stuff. But he's broken. He needs somebody to fix him. To make him like he was."
Kaidan seemingly had tears in the corners of his eyes, as he inhaled heavily. He smiled and nodded his head, before he turned around to face his reports, the conversation meeting an abrupt end.
Tali turned towards the med-bay, and began to walk towards it. Her mind reeling.
'H-He's lonely?! Who? Why? W-Who broke him?! Is It true? Do I matter to him?'
There was no simple answer.
But yet... Life didn't seem as bleak as it had done.
There was a new light at the end of the tunnel for Tali.
Her soul, and heart soared.
Hope refreshed her.
With a final thought, Tali gained a bounce to her steps.
'If I matter to him, and he's broken and alone... T-Then I'll be there for him. I'll help fix him. It's the least I can do for my Nehya...'
Her mind refreshed, and her heart full of purpose, Tali moved her hand to the holographic panel on the door, meaning to gain entry to the med-bay.
What came next, made Tali's heart soar further, her face erupting in a furious blush, as tingles danced upon her sensitive skin, beneath her suit.
Inside the med-bay, was her saviour, her broken human.
With a slight improvement.
He was shirtless.
His armour was in a pile on an adjacent bed, and the man was stood in tight fitting shorts, as Doctor Chakwas rubbed medi-gel into his shoulder, facing away from Tali.
The sight was simply...
'Keelah... W-Well. Uhh...'
Heat surged through Tali's body, as she continued to absorb the sight before her.
His muscled body looked like it had been sculpted by the ancient Quarian artists Tali had read about... His back was covered in scars, and yet it was extremely attractive to the young Quarian woman. His skin looked so soft and warm... It looked immensely inviting...
Tali continued to stare at the man, her jaw wide open, before he turned around, revealing more of his body to the woman. Another wave of heat surged through Tali at the sight.
'My Nehya...'
The commander simply smiled at the sight of Tali, the pain in his shoulder abating instantly. He couldn't help but notice her figure: her feminine form. Her strong toned legs, with an elegant curve. She was simply exotic to the man... Her wide hips were enticing, and her narrow waist accentuated her curves... Her entire form was simply gracious, elegant and beautiful.
Chris smirked at the thoughts that surged through his mind, as he gazed upon the young woman, his face reddening from a heavy blush...
It was true. He did feel something for the quirky young woman. He hadn't known her for very long, but just talking to her soothed him of his pains... He didn't feel alone when she was around.
He felt...
He felt whole for a change.
He had nearly lost her on Therum... He honestly couldn't think how he would feel with her gone. Her appearance brought him a type of happiness that he'd not experienced for a what felt like an age; like sunlight to a dwindling plant. He was galvanised in her presence.
Something that hadn't happened since Lucy was around...
And yet, Tali was different to Lucy. They were very similar, but, Tali was different. In her own special way.
Lucy would always be in his heart, but...
'C-Could I maybe... Could I-I fall for someone again?'
Bringing himself out of his inner turmoil, Shepard smiled once more at the woman, his feelings slotting into place.
The two were beginning to understand now. They were getting a little bit closer...
It was Doctor Chakwas that spoke up now, her tone humorous, "Commander? Normandy to the Commander? You can put your shirt back on Shepard. I've finished with your shoulder."
Shaking his head whilst chuckling, Chris replied jovially, "Alright Karin. Thanks for patching me up. Again..."
With a brief roll of his shoulder, the large marine began to speak to the newest occupant in the med bay, "Tali, could you pass me my shirt please? It's kinda cold in here."
Tali continued to stare at the man's torso, her mind floating away into blissful ecstasy.
Doctor Chakwas began to take note.
Chris began to laugh, a beautiful sound, drawing Tali back to reality.
The commander asked his question again, "Hey Tali! Can you pass me my shirt please? Seriously, it's getting cold in here..."
Tali hesitantly reached forwards, and grabbing the man's shirt, got closer to him.
That was when instinct took over.
Opening her omni-tool, Tali synced the controls of her suit to the device, and selecting the olfactory receptors, she engaged her lecherous, and extremely dangerous act.
Opening them just a few nanometres, just enough to hopefully prevent any bacteria in the room from entering her helmet, Tali inhaled deeply.
The smell of the man, his pheromones, wafted into Tali's nose, infusing itself into her very being.
Because of the fact that Quarians used to be nocturnal predators back on the plains of Rannoch, their 'hunter' senses were more evolved than most races in the galaxy. They were faster, more agile, had better hearing, relied on smell to a great extent etc... The use of smell for Quarians, was for hunting, or for identifying a potential mate. The specific pheromone given off by the mate, would be infused into the natural chemistry of that Quarian. Their smell was like a physical memory. Tali, now had Chris'.
It was only for a couple of seconds, but that was all that was needed.
Shutting the receptors, Tali stood away from the man, getting used to the new smell.
Chris nodded his thanks with a smile, overloading Tali's systems. Her brain shut down once more in the presence of the man, his smell accentuating her feelings one thousand times over.
Before Tali had even realised, Shepard had left the room.
Tali looked about, confused, before Doctor Chakwas spoke up, "If you're looking for the Commander, he's just left."
Dejected, Tali spoke quietly, "Oh..."
Doctor Chakwas tilted her head, confused, as she regarded the Quarian in front of her. She remembered the conversation she had had with Shepard, before Tali had come in.
'"Everything alright Commander? You seem a little bit more worried than usual."
"I-I'm alright, I suppose. Just a little concerned is all."
"Concerned about what, if I may ask?"
"Well... I guess I'm a little worried about Tali."
"Oh?"
"Yeah. I think she's pushing herself too hard. She seems exhausted. I can't help but feel that it's my fault..."
"Have you tried talking to her about your worries?"
"No. No, I haven't. I just asked her to get some rest after the meeting; she should be here in about five minutes."
"Commander. May I ask you a question?"
"Go on."
"Why are you worried about Tali so much?"
"I-I-I guess I just don't want to see her hurt."
"So, in that case, would you say you care about her?"
"I care about everybody on my ship."
"Enough to personally ask them to get some rest? Because you're concerned?"
"Well... She... Maybe..."
"You're not a very good liar Commander. Just admit it."
"Admit what?!"
"You care for Tali's well-being. And from my years of experience, that means one of two things:"
"Which are?"
"You either feel extremely guilty about something you've done to her. Or... You may be experiencing feelings for the girl."
"We're just colleagues..."
"I'll say it again, Commander. You're a very bad liar."
"Huh... Have you finished psycho-analysing me yet Karen?"
Chakwas simply laughed.
Smiling at the thought, Chakwas addressed the nervous woman, "Is there something you need, dear?"
Tali spun around, and spoke hesitantly, "Shepard asked me to get some rest in the med-bay. But I don't want to be a burden. I can sleep in my pod."
Chakwas just smiled at the woman, before speaking, "Well, if the Commander has asked you to rest in the med bay, then I think it would be best if you listen to his request and stay here. It clearly matters to him. Get some rest dear. Use the bed in the far corner if you so wish..."
"But... I have a pod... Someone might need to use that bed..."
"Yes, but those pods don't compare to an actual bed. And nobody's injured. Yet. Trust me dear, get some rest. You sound exhausted."
"I-I am..."
Smiling at the Quarian, Chakwas turned around, prepared to tackle another report that would be filed into the commander's medical records. It was Tali that spoke up however, drawing her away from her task:
"Doctor?"
"Yes?"
"D-Do you think you could teach me about humans?"
Turning around and smiling, Chakwas nodded her head, "Of course I can. I'd be happy to help you in whatever you would like to know. But, you must get some rest first. I'll tell you afterwards. Deal?"
"Deal." Tali replied happily, as she walked over towards the medical bed in the corner of the room.
As Tali laid down on the bed, Chakwas' voice filtered over.
"Is there anything you would specifically like to know? Something about an individual perhaps?" Karen couldn't help but smile as she said the words, hoping that Tali understood her meaning.
All that could be heard, was a sleepy reply, as Tali rolled over, and mumbled, "I'd like to know about someone in particular... I'd like that very much..."
With that, Tali drifted off into a well needed sleep, her mind escaping, as it floated lazily off into her blissful imagination, her Nehya's smell embedded in her thoughts.
She slept soundly, for the first time ever on the Normandy.
There we go!
Post mission wrap-up!
Guess where I got the pheromone concept from? ;)
Shout-out to 1054SS325MP and Calinstel for being Awesome!
So, Tali is happy now, she has a purpose: To fix her broken Bosh'tet of a Nehya.
Sounds like fun!
If you're wondering, or if I hadn't made it very clear. Tali does believe that she's beginning to feel certain emotions for Shepard. And Shepard is starting to contemplate his feelings for Tali.
Fluffy stuff is getting pulled together!
Just to let you know, I was listening to Mockingbird by Eminem when I wrote parts of this chapter. Give it a go! Trust me! :D
Here's some Quarian terms for you:
Bosh'tet: Animal. Native to Rannoch. Basically, is the Human equivalent of an extremely stupid dung beetle. The term is primarily derogatory, meant as an insult such as, 'Son of a bitch' or 'Bastard'.
Nehya: Term of endearment. Similar to 'Sweetheart'. In Quarian, it translates as, 'Interesting one'. It is usually used at the start of a relationship, and is used to express deep interest within a person.
Pemla'tiyl: Term for courtship. Translation in Quarian = Pathway to the mind, the first of three phases that lead to bonding. In this respect, Tali has begun her bonding process with Chris. Usually, both Quarians would need to express a desire or deep interest to each other, before this phase could commence. Due to the fact that Chris is Human, Tali may begin her bonding process without his parallel desire. This can end with either the second phase of bonding, or a deep seated frienship between the two involved.
Based off of Calinstel's concepts.
(It's there though. Don't worry about that!)
Any queries? Any comments? Don't like what I'm doing?
Let me know in the reviews! Or, just message me! My inbox is always open! :D
Cheers!