Tali sat down in the mess and breathed out. Her thoughts were dominated by a deeply felt sense of success and accomplishment. She had just returned from the mission on Nepheron. Shepard had immediately went to the conference room to report to the Council, to finalize his success. She was not as emotionally invested into the whole business as him; to her personally Cerberus meant nothing. However she knew how much it meant to Shepard, and she was very glad that she had been able to contribute to his triumph.
Now, she could focus on the next item ahead of her. The geth data.
She still had it saved on her omni-tool. After all, it had been her who had downloaded it. However, it had been on one of Shepard's missions. She merely had acted as one of his agents. She could just grab the data and return to the Flotilla, but that was a mere theoretical possibility and not something actually thinkable: Such behaviour would only serve to reinforce the stereotype of quarians as thieves, and besides, she just couldn't steal it from Shepard. And since the data was rightfully his, it would be a sort of theft.
Yet, she needed the data. And it was on her omni-tool. She really needed to talk with the Commander about it. She had held back during the missions against Cerberus, because Shepard's mind would surely be on other things then. However, now the issue returned to her thoughts with great force. It seemed a bit odd even to herself how quickly this came up in her mind, but she supposed she simply had held back with that too long already. This was very important for her.
She leaned her elbows on the table. Automatically her fingers began to fiddle with each other. She was impatient and a bit nervous.
Eventually, she saw Shepard appearing. He looked very content. One could even say that he looked smug, with a rather stupid smile on his face. Tali could not help it, though, she found it somewhat adoring. She had to admit, she liked the rich diversity of human facial expressions of humans more and more in general. Quarians were a bit more limited in that anyway, and after generations of wearing their envirosuits they generally did not place great importance on them any more. But what range of emotions they can convey! She liked that. Especially of course on Shepard.
However, how he looked now also near-automatically triggered her sense of humour. She remarked ironically: "Shepard. You look like you've found Saren in your locker and are now transporting him to the Citadel."
He stopped at that, looked dumbfounded, and then broke out in laughter. "Nearly as good, Tali, nearly as good."
"The Council has agreed to hunt down Cerberus?" Tali asked.
"Agreed? They were utterly shocked by my findings, just as I thought they'd be," Shepard answered. He walked to the table, and leaned his hands on the back of a chair "Ah, Tali, when I set out to fight Cerberus I never thought I could bring this to such a perfect conclusion."
"It does seem to be your usual method," Tali disagreed, "bring down an enemy and find somebody more competent to finish him off."
"Heh, put like that, you're right," Shepard admitted.
"Very few manage to get the Citadel Council to do that job, though," Tali remarked. "I wonder who'll mop up Saren after we're done with him. There isn't much more above the Council any more."
"Ah, I suppose we'll have to finish up Saren ourselves," Shepard said. "That is what I initially was named Spectre for, after all." He grinned. "But how difficult can the hunt for him still be now?"
He really is in good spirits now. It was complete transformation, compared to the gloom that had held him after Earth, or after he had received the Cipher. It was a really nice to watch that transformation, too. She tried to get her thoughts away from that. Today I'm hit rather hard, it seems.
"I think the Council will consider you a good choice as Spectre now anyway," Tali pointed out. "And to the Alliance you've proved your worth in the Armstrong Nebula." It would have been a nice potential transition to asking about the geth data. Speaking of which... But Shepard had just now come back to reporting back to the Council. In fact, he even still was in armour. He should still have his moments of triumph. I can bother him about the data later.
Shepard chuckled lightly "I never thought of the latter. Maybe they're both off my neck now for a while." He paused, and his facial expression became softer. "Anyway, I suppose I should thank you. You... well, you said you'd be at my side against Cerberus, and you were. You led us to Nepheron, and you captured all that data in the end, despite Cerberus' anti-tampering security. So, thank you."
Sometimes, like at the moment, Tali was grateful for her envirosuit. It was probably a good thing that Shepard could not see her own facial expressions at the moment. "I don't think..." she began. Somehow that always happens to me a detached part of her analzyed I wonder if I'll ever get to end my first sentence in talks like these. "You shouldn't thank me. We're a team." Speaking calmer she continued: "Ship crew. In quarian culture, ship crews always have to form strong bonds, it's practically a necessity."
To her surprise, Shepard smirked at that. "Well, this isn't a quarian ship, but it sounds like a good tradition." His grin looked different from before. Where did that come from?
"As I've said: It's a quarian tradition," Tali joked. As much as she had enjoyed Shepard's gratitude, she was glad the conversation had gone away from that. She continued: "I think I'm going to rest now. It was a difficult battle - though I think you didn't notice it much."
Shepard smiled somewhat sheepishly. "I guess I, ah, fell into a fugue there, maybe." He shrugged. "But I had a level-headed team at my back, didn't I? Well then, see you around, I hope." With that he turned and went.
This might prove to be difficult.
…
The Normandy had reached half the way to the Citadel, and Tali's shift had just ended. Most likely some time after her next shift the ship would reach the station, the political and social centre of the galaxy.
She chatted with some other people at Engineering whose shifts had just been ended, too. There still were some few people on the ship who looked oddly at her, but her own ship section had always been friendly and supportive. A true crew.
However, her mind was elsewhere. Quarians were a sociable people, and due to ship overpopulation and hence overstaffing had always much free time they could fill with little else than talking. As such, Tali was apt enough in idle small-talk. However, after some time of it, the group dispersed and Tali took the elevator leading upward from the cargo bay.
She had thought of a clear destination, but when she reached the door of the CO's cabin, she hesitated. She knew she had to talk with Shepard about the geth data, but - what if he declines? It was unlikely in her estimation, but possible.
However, she also had become somewhat fed up with her own hesitation. It's a valid request, and I'll present it as such. She chimed the door bell and announced herself to Shepard via her omni-tool. The door opened.
She saw Shepard raising from the chair at his desk. "Tali. What can I do for you?" he asked.
"I hope I'm not disturbing you here," Tali answered. She still was somewhat self-conscious in entering his cabin.
"Not at all," Shepard assured her. "Do you have something on your mind?"
"I have in fact," Tali anwered. Her thoughts now focused, she managed to be and appear much more self-certain. "The data we collected on Solcrum. It's on my omni-tool, but I acquired it on an Alliance mission under your command. So it's rightfully yours. However, I wanted to ask whether I could keep a copy. I can understand if you reject that request, the data is very valuable, but I think my people especially could make good use of it. "
" So you want to take it home as a pilgrimage gift?" Shepard asked.
"Yes," Tali confirmed. "It would be perfect for that. A way how I can fulfil all expectations and serve my people."
"What... what would you do then, if you have it?" Shepard asked. He sounded surprisingly uncertain.
It was a good question. She had wondered that herself. She would eventually return to her people, but leaving the Normandy would be a sad occasion. However, she did still have a good reason to stay on board: "Return to the Migrant Fleet, eventually. But not before we've stopped Saren. I will see this through to the end either way."
Shepard smiled, but he still seemed somewhat insecure. "Well, good." He sighed. "I never really thought about it, I must admit, but you're right - the data was acquired on an official Alliance mission. I probably couldn't even claim my team acquired it assisting me in my function as a Spectre. So, I guess, strictly speaking it's Alliance property..."
Some part of Tali was annoyed at how he brought up Alliance regulations now, after all he had done, but that was unfair. This time there was no great injustice involved, so of course he would keep to Alliance regulations. It's just a pity that...
"However," Shepard went on, interrupting her thoughts, "I am an Alliance CO in the field. I can make command decisions, if need be also on the strategical level. The geth are a common enemy of humans and quarians, and as such it's in the best interest for us both to share any data that can be used against them. Or, at least, I can justify my choice that way and call it a field decision." He grinned and added more softly: "Besides, I don't think I could deny your request. Not after you've helped me all those times."
Tali was relieved. Focusing her thoughts again she replied: "Thanks, Shepard. My people - I owe you a great debt. All I can offer in return is what you already have: My full support in catching Saren, and in whatever else you deem necessary."
"I never asked for more," Shepard said softly. However, then he grinned and continued somewhat cockily: "That is, there's one thing. I'll let you have the data under one condition. Outside the battlefield and official functions, how about you call me Jonathan, or Jon?"
Tali had read on human naming traditions. Mostly because they were so different from the rest of the galaxy. Family or clan names were a wide spread concept, but only humans seemed to insist on focusing on them so much. Using personal names was usually something reserved to friends among humans. But then, he has said before he considers me his friend.
"You drive a hard bargain," Tali joked, "but I think it's an acceptable condition. I think I can manage to do so, Jon."
"See, there you go," Shepard commented grinning. "In return I'd like to hand over the data in some grand gesture, but as it is you already have it. Hah, you probably could just have kept it and I wouldn't even have noticed it." He paused. "But that would be wrong, of course," he added jokingly.
"I'm moved by your dedication to property rights," Tali answered dryly.
"I'm a Spectre, I stand above such petty concerns," Shepard claimed.
"Yes, and you've given the Council plenty of opportunities to rue that fact already," Tali pointed out. Of course also opportunities to make them glad about it. She grinned beneath her mask. But that isn't the point now.
"I'm sure more will follow," Shepard prophesized.
I won't bet against that. But of course, she wouldn't want Shepard to be any other way.
000000
Tali's request had been a bit surprising to Commander Shepard. Mostly because he had not thought that such a request was necessary at all. As far as he was concerned, she had earned herself the data, and he had thought it agreed upon already that it would be her pilgrimage gift.
That she had bothered to ask spoke well of her, though. So much for stereotypes of quarian thieves.
And how could I ever deny such a request to her? He just could not, in fact. It had been necessary to invent an official line as for why she could have the data, but even without that he did not think he could have denied it to her.
He knew he could never be together with her. Even though she probably felt the same for him, he was pretty sure about that. However, he could at least be a friend to her, be nice to her, make her stay on the Normandy as comfortable and unforgettable for her as possible. And hence he would do so. So that after she would return to her people, at least both would be able to look back at that time with fondness. That maybe was not much, but it was the best Shepard could hope to achieve regarding the situation.
At least he had gotten her now to call him by his first name. And they both kept up effortlessly with each other's banter.
"I'm moved by your dedication to property rights," Tali commented Shepard's stated surprise at her having asked for the data at all.
"I'm a Spectre, I stand above such petty concerns," Shepard responded.
"Yes, and you've given the Council plenty of opportunities to rue that fact already," Tali pointed out.
Oh, that's just all too true. "I'm sure more will follow," Shepard prophesized. He paused and then added: "That reminds me - we'll reach the Citadel in less than thirty hours. I think the squad has deserved some celebration. I'm thinking about my Spectre entourage and probably Alenko and Williams from among the marines. So, how about a visit to the Flux when we arrive? I think you should have a free watch then." He grinned. "I know, it's not Chora's Den, but it sure does have better meals."
"Sure, that sounds like fun," Tali replied. "Though with us seven people - I think we might be quite the attraction to the other clients there."
Shepard laughed. "Yes, probably. The Flux is visited by all sorta people, but we might still manage to stand out. But we've earned it, I think. Besides, there are issues to discuss in a relaxed atmosphere. So we've beaten back the geth in the Armstrong Nebula, and defeated Cerberus practically on the fly, but what now? There are still no new hints about Saren. So, I might as well try to get feedback from the squad about that."
"I understand," Tali replied. "I'm a bit worried where you get your advice, though. A krogan, a quarian, a lady with questionable family ties, a loose cop..."
Shepard chuckled. "I don't think I'd have it any way." He looked at Tali, and very tender thoughts filled his mind. "No, really not." A sort of awkward pause ensued, which interrupted the so far rather pleasant banter. However, what Shepard has said was true, and regarding Tali - he wished he could reach out to her. Ideally even touch her, hold her. Every time he saw her now, every time she was standing in front of him like at the moment, he realized there was also was a physical attraction. Despite all alieness. And there certainly was a mental attraction.
You're hit pretty hard today, aren't you, Jon? It could of course never be. Even if he could get used to the fact that he had feelings for an alien, there was the fact of her weak immune system, of the absolute necessity for her environmental suit, and the fact that she was only temporarily away from her very secluded and insular people.
All I can do is help her, support her, whenever that should be necessary. Goddamn, but I am melodramatic today.
He coughed. "So, yeah, glad to hear that you can make it. I guess you want to take a look at the geth data now?"
"It's heavily encrypted," Tali explained. "It will probably take years to decipher it, if not decades. But it'll be worth it. So, once again -"
"Don't!" Shepard quickly and decisively interrupted her. "Don't thank me again. Or at all, I guess. You really earned it."
"I understand," Tali answered. Shepard recognized the inflection in her voice that indicated her usual humour. He had gotten quite used to it by now. "I'll henceforth make without expressions of politeness."
"Hah, well, maybe you were right about all the bad company and influences on you which you are exposed to on your pilgrimage," Shepard joked.
"Then I better should remove myself from those influences," Tali said. "Until tomorrow then."
Shepard chuckled again when Tali left the room, and turned towards the datapads lying on his desk again.
…
Shepard found Garrus pacing around nervously in front of a console in the CIC.
"Garrus," he greeted the turian.
"Commander, I..." Garrus began, but then interrupted himself: "What can I do for you?"
"Is something the matter?" Shepard asked. "What are you up to?"
"Nothing, really," Garrus answered. He went to the console and logged himself off. It might have been comical or even suspicious, but he did not do so in an hurried manner. "I should probably go to the cargo bay, to check out the Mako."
"I'm on the way there myself," Shepard answered. He fell in line with the turian, and walked towards the elevator.
"It's Saren," Garrus admitted after a while. "I've looked up every source I know on the extranet, every contact I have - still nothing. No new developments on Noveria, either. I'm starting to wonder whether we'll ever find him. We were so close to him on Feros, but it seems we have no further lead towards him any more."
I kinda did let that lead get cold, didn't I? Seeing Garrus feel so fiercely dedicated towards the cause of catching Saren made Shepard feel somewhat awkward. "Ah, sorry. We... well, I had to take care of several things, and I, ah..."
"Don't worry, Commander. You had to do it," Garrus reassured him. Both stepped inside the elevator leading down to the cargo bay. "You couldn't let ExoGeni or Cerberus get away with what they've done. You made sure they'll pay the price for their crimes. That's good. But now I'm worrying Saren will get away, and that after everything he has done. I just can't stand the thought of that."
"I understand, Garrus," Shepard answered. It was meant as a mere reassurance, but as he said so a thought hit Shepard: What the turian had said, it was the exact same as his own attitude. His anger at ExoGeni, Cerberus and at times even Alliance - it all boiled down to that he could not stand anybody getting away with their crimes. And thus, he did everything to prevent that, and even if it meant tangentially going against Alliance interests. He had not realized it before, but he felt the same as Garrus.
"I know if anybody can catch him, it's you," the turian went on, "but... "
He paused, and Shepard used that chance to interrupt him: "Saren must be brought to justice, there's no question about it. You're absolutely right. He can't get away with what he's done. And I won't let him. We've always know he'd be several steps ahead of us and that we'll have to catch on. Nothing about that has changed. We'll find him"
The two stepped out of the elevator and into the cargo bay. "I wish I had your confidence," Garrus answered, "If there's anything I can do to help. Anything. Just tell me what you want me to do, and I'll do it."
Garrus' agitation surprised Shepard. This can't be healthy. The dedication to the cause was good, but Shepard though that maybe it should be better channeled. "If there's anything I'll need you to do, I will tell you. I know you really want to contribute to this and that all this waiting makes you nervous, to say at least, but I can't change that. However, I can assure you that we'll find Saren. And once we do, I need you to be ready."
"Yes, sir," Garrus confirmed, "you can count on me. Thanks for hearing me out. I appreciate it." He began to walk towards the Mako's maintenance terminal. He hesitated slightly but then went on: "Can I ask you something, Commander?"
"Sure, go ahead," Shepard prompted him.
Garrus looked around and finished walking to the maintenance terminal before continuing: "Are you worried that the Council might be protecting Saren? I mean they were really dragging their heels before. What if we find him, bring him back to the Citadel, and they refuse to act?"
"Sounds doubtful to me," Shepard answered, "but it seems you've had some thoughts about it, so speak your mind."
"Well," Garrus answered hesitantly, "maybe we shouldn't give them the chance, Commander. In my opinion, Saren is too dangerous too be kept alive. He could escape, or the Council might let him go..." He trailed off, but then went on more decisively: "If we find him - when we find him, I say we make sure we stop him. Permanently."
"Ah..." Shepard answered. He was surprised by that comment. He had never seen the issue from that angle. "I think you look at it from a wrong perspective, Garrus. As much as the Council would like to pretend to, this is no police case. The geth have attacked several human colonies. We're at war with them. And Saren is their supreme commander. That's not a matter of proper procedure for criminals, rather the laws of war apply here - and as military commander Saren is of course a valid target. So, yes, if we get the chance, we should shoot him."
"I'm glad you see it that way," Garrus remarked.
"However, the most ideal situation is to have an enemy commander captured alive, of course," Shepard went on. "For interrogation. Who knows what he could tell us about geth plans, or about Reaper plans. I won't risk everything to get this optimal outcome, but if it is within our reach... then we should try to capture Saren alive."
"But do you really think we could get any additionally knowledge out of interrogating him?" Garrus asked. "Other than the fact that he's a raving lunatic. It's too much a risk in my opinion. He could escape or convince the Council. And what about the geth? They might free to free him. It's your call of course, Commander, but I wouldn't take that risk."
"Saren is the only one who might give us information about the Reapers," Shepard pointed out. "And you've heard Liara. You know what's on the line. I say killing a potential source of information about them is a risk we can't take. He may be absolutely insane by now, but we just must use every source of information about the Reapers we can."
"I see your point, Commander," Garrus replied, "You seem to have thought this through, too. Makes me glad to be part of your team."
"I'm glad to have you on the team," Shepard answered. "Despite our... early disagreements. But I think we'll have need of you in the end. And besides, I consider those disagreements a thing of the past now. Speaking of which - the reason I wanted to speak with you is that we dock at the Citadel in a few hours. I want the squad to discuss our future strategy, and I thought it best to do so in a relaxed atmosphere. So, if you have time we'll meet this evening, Presidium time, at the Flux."
"Right, I'll be there," Garrus confirmed.
"Until then, Garrus," Shepard said and turned to go.
The reason he had wanted to go to the cargo bay was to speak with Wrex and Williams. That he had met Garrus on the way had of course simplified things, though; it meant he would not have to go look for him afterward.
He walked towards Williams' console. He would ask her next. She saw him coming and turned around from her console with a smirk on a face.
"You've talked to Garrus, skipper?" she asked, "He's been twitchy and nervous all day. I hope you've calmed him down some."
"He's just eager and dedicated," Shepard explained, "Something I think you of all people should understand."
"Ah, guess so," Williams answered, "So what brings you here? I thought you'd be busy preparing the ship for docking."
"I am, in fact," Shepard replied. "Thing is, we have no idea where Saren is at the moment, so I kinda appreciate any input on what to do. So, I'm trying to arrange a meeting for the usual ground team at the Flux this evening. So, if you have time..."
"Today?" Ashley asked. She sounded surprised. "Well, that's one way to mark the day, I guess. Then again, Garrus will be there, too, won't he? I, that is, I have nothing against him, but today..."
"Ah... I don't understand," Shepard said, "What's so special about today?"
"It's Armistice Day," Williams answered, "When the First Contact War ended. My family always marks it."
"Seems like an odd thing to celebrate," Shepard remarked, "That was 26 years ago,"
"In our family, it's not really a celebration, more like an obligation." Williams stated. She hesitated. "Don't tell me you don't know about my family. My commanders always find out. It's not in the files or something?"
"There's almost nothing in your files," Shepard explained, "Just technical scores and a list of crap assignments."
"There's a reason for the crap assignments," Williams said, "I'm General William's granddaughter. The commander of the Shanxi garrison in the War. 'The only human ever to surrender to an alien race'."
That explains so much, on so many levels. Shit, and that's the reason for all the crappy deployments? "I know about General Williams, of course," Shepard remarked, "but I never thought of a family connection. It's not exactly an uncommon family name after all. So, damn, you get blamed for that?"
Williams shook her head. "Not formally. Dad got passed for promotion over and over. And I think my record merits more than garrison duty on a backwater agri-colony." Her voice was unusually serious and calm for her. "It takes a special kind of thickheaded to march into a job where your family is blacklisted. I did it anyway. I'm not going to let our name go down with Arnold or Quisling. Granddad deserved better than that."
"Whoa, hold on!" Shepard stopped. "General Williams was a hero. 'The only human ever to surrender aliens', bah, how very easy to say for people who hadn't been there. From all I read about it, it's not like he had much choice. No supplies, cut off from Alliance Command, turians threatening civilians... yet some would have those civilians die and the troops get themselves killed rather than them losing face."
This had Williams absolutely stumped. Finally she grinned slightly, "Jeez, the way you put that you sound even more passionate about it than me,"
Shepard laughed sharply. "Probably not, no. It's just how I always argue, I`m sure you know that by now. And I'm sick to the bone of that mentality. People who'd rather see others, always others, suffer rather than them losing face or appearing weak. It's just selfish as hell and cruel besides." He shook his head and continued calmer: "It's the duty of us military personal to protect people. Many of us are willing to give up their lives for that, and that's good and recommendable. But that wasn't required at Shanxi. General Williams instead sacrificed just what was necessary sacrificing: His pride. He swallowed down his pride, and saved countless civilians that way. Just what a soldier should do. If people want to pin blame, they should blame the turians, who leveled entire city blocks from orbit."
"And yet, now we're all cozy and friendly toward them," Williams remarked snidely.
"Yeah, it's a disgrace," Shepard agreed, "you won't get any disagreement from me there."
"So I take it you won't kick me off the ship, skipper?" Williams asked. Despite the way she had formulated the sentence, she still sounded unsure.
"To hell with that," Shepard answered aggressively. "Yes, I fully support what General Williams did, but in the end it's absolutely irrelevant. I could also have talked about that with a random person off the street, instead of his granddaughter. It shouldn't matter that you're related to him, it shouldn't matter at all who is related to whom in general." He paused and went on calmer: "So, no. You're a good soldier, Williams. In terms of sheer combat prowess you're probably the best among my crew, besides Wrex, and he's a krogan with centuries of experience. Besides, you're dedicated, fair in dealing with your fellow soldiers, and able to exercize command as seen on Therum. Excuse my French, but - kick you off the ship? Because of who your grandfather was? Fuck that."
"That was blunt," Williams remarked, "but I like blunt. Not to get all cheesy, but you're the first CO who ever said that to me. And the first person within the military I've met who really defended my grandfather. There's always been talks about exonerating him, but nothing ever comes out of it. The navy blocks like crazy. So, thanks, skipper."
"Really?" Shepard asked. "That's a sad state of affairs. Seems then like everybody would rather have bragging rights than to avoid other people suffering. And not only regarding that issue, either. Maybe humanity has gotten a tad too vain."
"Sorry, skipper, but those considerations are way above my pay grade," Williams answered. She again hesitated. "I think I can come. However... My grandfather would probably turn over in his grave if I shared drinks with a turian. And on Armistice Day nonetheless?" She was visibly troubled about that.
"You don't have to come," Shepard assured her. "But Garrus is part of the team. Do you really want to have nothing to do with him, just so you can prove a point to everybody about your family?"
"I don't know," Williams admitted, "Sometimes I do think about showing it to everybody. Some sorta big service or big sacrifice. But at other times..."
"Don't," Shepard interrupted her, "General Williams refused to sacrifice his men to save face for the people who weren't even there. And he did right in doing so. So are you planning now to throw yourself on a sword to save face for him?"
"Would it make a difference?" Williams asked, "He's gone now. Dad's gone, too. And who would it impress? I'll never be good enough for the Alliance."
"Or maybe they are not good enough for you," Shepard disagreed. "I know, probably heresy to you, but I don't think loyalty should ever be a one-way street. And for what it's worth - for whatever reasons you chose to sign up, even if they were incredibly thickheaded, I'm glad you did and I'm glad you're here. And you are on the most important mission any of us will ever have, don't forget that." He grinned lopsidedly. "However, so is Garrus."
"I... I'll have to think about what you've said," Williams said, "Now I'm definitely sounding cheesy, but it's a lot of new stuff for me. I guess you'll see whether I'll be at the Flux or not. I'd like to give you a more definite answer, but..."
"It's all right," Shepard assured her, "this is in comparison rather unimportant, after all. Get your head clear, that's more important."
"You're probably right, skipper," Williams said. "It never was my best body part, though."
"But certainly your hardest," Shepard commented grinning. "Well, I better go then. Just think about what I've said. You do deserve a fairer treatment."
"Will do, skipper, and thanks," Williams said. "See you around either way, whether I'll be at the Flux or not."
…
The Citadel, glorious centre of the galaxy, nexus of cultures, glittering metropolis in space - but eventually one hardly regarded that any more. After the Normandy had returned once again to the giant space station, Shepard, Tali, Liara, Garrus, Williams and Alenko were now walking through the best parts of the upper wards. Noble shops, glittering light and elegant people surrounded them, but they had pretty much become used to it.
They were on the way to Flux. Everybody had agreed to come, though Wrex had said he would join up later. Even Williams had, after a lot of dithering, decided to come along. However, Shepard noticed how she regularly shot glances to Garrus now. She still seemed somewhat uncomfortable.
"The Flux is great," Alenko said, "I like the atmosphere there, and the food and music are very good."
"Expensive, though," Williams noted, "but I guess we can afford to go there once in a while."
"Yes, it's not that bad," Alenko opined. "I don't think they... ah, what's that noise?"
Shepard heard it now, too. It sounded like shouting. Human shouting. As he walked on, he could see a crowd of some dozens that had assembled at the Ward's space view deck.
"Ah great, a political rally," Williams said sarcastically.
"Isn't that the Terra Firma symbol?" Alenko asked as they came closer and could get a better look.
"This just gets better and better," Williams commented, "Must be their..."
She got interrupted by a person standing in front of the crowd though. It was a man with well styled full beard, and he shouted: "Ah, Commander Shepard, the Spectre. Please, could I have a word with you."
Shepard looked first at Williams, then at Alenko, and then shrugged and walked towards the man.
The man shook Shepard's hand. "Commander Shepard, it is an honour to speak with you."
"Thanks," Shepard replied, "Who are you, and what's this demonstration about?"
"I'm Charles Sarracino of the Terra Firma Party," the man explained, "We're marking the end of the First Contact War by making our voice heard by the alien appeasers in the Presidium. Can I count on your support in the next election? I must say, your interview with Ms Wong was just magnificent. It showed just what is wrong with the Council, and why humanity should go alone.
Feeling a bit steamrolled by that explanation, Shepard answered: "I don't think humanity can. Of course, that doesn't mean the Council is perfect. But I don't think isolationism would help. Look at what it has done to the batarians."
"Not enough yet," Saracino muttered.
"Well, I'll grant you that," Shepard answered with a grim humour. So they're celebrating Armistice Day here. In their own way. Seems like everybody does. He gave Williams a short glance. I just hope this doesn't get too uncomfortable for her. He concentrated on Saracino again."So, Terra Firma?" He had heard about the party, of course. Every politically halfway educated human had. Their chairmen and candidates changed quicker then he could keep up with, and generally they were also too unimportant to do so, but he knew about the party at least. "Eh. If you really want to know my opinion on you then I can tell you that I think you have some right ideas, but most of your members seem to be little more than racists to me."
"Some of our members do hold extreme views, yes," Saracino said. He gets a few points in grace for that. At least he didn't freak out at my frank opinion. But then, I guess he's used to that already. "But which other party or faction stands up for humanity? Terra Firma believes that Earth must 'stand firm' against alien influences - politically, culturally, and in the worst case militarily!"
The 'culturally' part got Shepard's attention. "Cultural purism?" he asked. "That has never ended well in human history. I don't see why it should be any different for humans in galactic history. Personally, I don't think we should reject potentially very good ideas, just because others might have happened to have them first."
Saracino tilted his head. Shepard was somewhat impressed how he managed not to shot any aggressive glances or the like to his team of aliens. Either Saracino had himself very well under control, or unlike the majority of his party truly was not racist. "But you do agree that the aliens push humanity far too hard," he said. "You've basically said so yourself. So, somebody has to defend it."
"No disagreement there," Shepard stated. He could not quite agree with Terra Firma as a whole, but he could agree purely with that statement, at least.
However, now Garrus spoke up: "It's not unreasonable, but you make this a point of race, not politics."
Oh, this is going to get interesting.
"Excuse me," Saracino said to Garrus and waved his hand dismissively, "but I don't think human politics are any of your concerns."
"Turian space borders yours," Garrus justified himself, "Of course we're concerned about your leadership!"
"What the Alliance does affects everybody around it," Liara supported the turian.
Seeing how Saracino's face darkened, Shepard intervened. He turned toward the squad and said: "Let's not make this a riot, people," Turning back to Saracino, he continued: "She's right though, Mr Saracino. We live in this galaxy. We can't pretend what we do will affect nobody else."
"No, of course not," Saracino conceded, "My apologies. I only meant to point out that other species have no rights to interfere in Alliance politics."
Before Shepard could reply, Williams spoke up now. She sounded aggressive, but then she quite often did: "Then let me say it. Terra Firma started out with noble goals, but these days it's all about racism."
"You exaggerate the issue," Saracino defended himself, "I do disagree with our more extreme members, but I won't silence them. They have a right to their opinion. However, they're only a minority anyway. Our platform is also supported by economists, sociologists and medical professionals."
"That's not enough, though, in my opinion," Shepard replied, "I mean, you're right about some things. Some people would just like to forget about Shanxi and the crimes committed against humanity there. But -"
"Ah, with all due respect, Commander..." Garrus interrupted him, but then apparently had not enough courage to finish.
Instead, Alenko intervened now, in his usual role as a voice of reason: " What happened in the First Contact War was a misunderstanding. If you saw a child handling a gun, wouldn't you take it away from him, too?"
"I would take the gun away. I wouldn't shoot the child," Saracino argued.
"Besides, the Alliance wasn't bound by Council rules back then, we were not yet an associate member" Shepard supported him, "Their rules didn't apply to us. We had every right in the galaxy to open that relay."
"A very good point. Commander," Saracino lauded him, "You see, I'm running for one of the five space seats in Alliance Parliament. Franchise rules for it are very complex, but you'd apply. So, can I count on your vote? So that people won't forget Shanxi."
"Oh stop it about Shanxi already," Williams blurted out, "Were you there? If not, shut your piehole"
"Easy there... Chief," Shepard said. He had wanted to call her by her name, but had realized in time that given the surroundings and circumstances, announcing her as a Williams on an Armistice Day rally might not have been the wisest thing to do. It does seem to get uncomfortable for her now. I can understand her. "It's not worth it."
"True, skipper," Williams agreed, "His kind rarely is."
"I can assure you, I'm only interested in the betterment of humanity," Saracino claimed. Shepard thought his voice already had gotten somewhat more cutting. "We all serve that goal one way or another, soldier or not. You, Commander, do so in battle. I do so by informing the public why they should support you."
"Among my people, everyone is a soldier," Garrus remarked, "Even the infirm volunteer to serve behind the frontlines."
"Ah, I..." Saracino began. Clearly, that argument had somewhat impressed him.
It did not impress Shepard, though: "With all due respect, Garrus, but personally I don't find militarism all that admirable. Of course, I recognize that this might be different among your people. But in my opinion it's not something one should be able to score points with concerning human politics." He added in a rather venomous voice: "Of course, Mr Saracino, you did seem impressed enough by his comment."
"Terra Firma certainly does see the value in a strong and honoured military," Saracino said. "To defend ourselves."
"Your platform is a hodgepodge of excellent points and repugnant ideas," Shepard summarized, "I'm sorry, that' why I certainly couldn't vote for you. Maybe if your party finally got its act together and expelled the racists. But certainly not before. Humanity needs to stand strong in the face of other races - but that shouldn't make us blind to the benefits of cooperation. I can tell you, Mr Saracino, aliens can be friends. There here are mine. And no, we shouldn't forget about the crimes committed against us, but we damn well should take care to keep this a point of justice, not racism."
Saracino did not seem very impressed: "A stirring speech, Commander. But I don't think you'll find much support for your positions among the established parties."
"That's all too true," Shepard admitted, "Still, I can't support you while half your party consist of racists."
"That's too bad," Saracino commented, "Can I at least ask you for a public statement of support for my candidacy? As a way to push your views and make them public."
"Sorry," Shepard apologized, "You have the right to your opinion, Mr Saracino, and the right to use political means to support it - but I disagree with it. I won't vote for you and I won't support you."
"I understand," Saracino stated, "I'm glad you support the democratic process at least. Thank you for your time, Commander. Remember Terra Firma on election day, because Terra Firma remembers you!" And with that, he turned to his followers again.
Shepard looked at his squad, shrugged, and continued walking towards Flux.
"Commander," Garrus spoke up after a while. Shepard had not expected him to remain silent, "do you really think what you've said about Shanxi."
Shepard stopped, sighed, and addressed Garrus: "I do. What the Hierarchy did there against us was a crime. However, unlike Terra Firma, that doesn't mean I'd hate turians out of principle. But the Hierarchy did wrong. It attacked us out of the blue and its soldiers indiscriminately killed civilians on Shanxi."
"Well, they operated according to turian doctrine, both in attacking any race opening unchartered primary relays, and in the treatment of civilians," Garrus replied. He sounded rather awkward.
"I don't think that justifies anything," Shepard stated. "If we go by that logic, than the krogan were just following their own doctrine when they tried to conquer the galaxy. There's right and there's wrong, and what the Hierarchy did was wrong."
Garrus remained silent for a while. Then he remarked: "You're a man of strong convictions, Commander. I respect that. I don't agree with you entirely, but maybe you're right in that even the Hierarchy might need some reforms."
"I wouldn't have expected you to agree with me," Shepard said. "It's enough if we can understand where each other comes from, I think."
"Oh, I certainly can," Garrus stated.
"As can I," Shepard agreed. "So, hence I hope this disagreement won't create any hard feelings between us."
"No, Commander," Garrus confirmed, "It's better to meet somebody with concepts of justice you disagree with than meeting somebody with no concepts of justice at all."
Shepard grinned and padded Garrus' shoulder. "Good. Then let's go."
Flux was a pretty spacious establishment, consisting of a restaurant area, a dancing area and a gambling area. All of it was well cared for, tidy and glamorous. It was expensive, but the owner, Doran, a volus, made sure that they customers got their money's worth.
Tali had been right: The group did stand out, especially as soon as Wrex joined them. Krogan and quarians were rare enough in the better parts of the Citadel. To see one of each, plus an asari, a turian and three humans, all armed, was indeed highly unusual and drawing attention. However, Shepard managed to ignore the odd looks they received from everybody.
Wrex joined the conversation in the middle of a further small political debate.
"Just too bad what Terra Firma has become," Williams remarked. "Surely there must be some people out there who are not racist bigots yet also don't want the aliens dictating to us!"
"I don't think they even want to," Alenko disagreed. "I don't think we should assume the worst of them. I mean, it's only been twenty-six years since First Contact, that's not a long time to get to understand them."
"Twenty-six years in which they've held us back time after time," Williams remarked, "And yet we are in full make-nice modus."
"I don't think you can call Udina's antics that," Alenko said, "But in any case, I'm a soldier, just as you are. I have to believe our superiors can tell foes from people simply disagreeing with them."
"I think many of the Council's actions go way beyond mere disagreement," Williams stated, "Just think of the sanctions after the Sidon Incident!"
"Yes, but what about the Sidon Incident itself?" Alenko asked. "If the Alliance misses its chances then it's because of people like those who instigated that project, or people like Udina - not because the aliens are holding us back."
Shepard watched the argument with great concentration. Having Williams' and Alenko's political opinions meet was quite fascinating. He was about to speak up when instead a very low, dark voice commented dryly: "No, she's right, it's all my fault"
Wrex took the remaining free seat at the table and looked at Williams. She made a dismissive hand gesture and leaned back, causing the rest of the group to grin.
Now that everybody was there, and all except Wrex had drinks, Shepard began: "Right, enough banter. There's a reason I called for this meeting after all. If it can be called that. Thing is, does anybody have the slightest idea what to do now?"
"We could just wait for the next geth attack," Alenko pointed out, "but that wouldn't be very productive. Ideally we should manage to prevent the next potential geth attack."
"What about Noveria?" Williams asked. "I thought we had a lead there."
"We do," Garrus said, "But this might not be the best time to use it. I, ah, got access to the logs of Port Hanshan, Noveria's main space port. In the last years, Benezia visited it several times, always as Saren's plenipotentiary. And her visits are getting more frequent." He looked awkwardly at Liara. "It might be best to wait for her next visit, so we can catch her."
"I understand," Liara assured him, "Benezia is... has become an important ally of Saren. It would be helpful to us if we could capture her." Quieter she added: "Maybe we could also help her then." And more decisive again: "However, the main priority would be getting her knowledge about Saren's activities."
"That makes sense," Shepard judged, "but we have no idea when Benezia will next visit Noveria, do we?"
"No, of course not, Commander," Garrus admitted, "Unfortunately. I have uploaded programs onto the Port Hanshan systems, so I'll get an alert as soon as Benezia arrives again. But of course they can't predict when this will be next."
"So, can we afford to wait for that?" Shepard asked again.
"I don't think we can, skipper," Ashley advised, "We have no idea just what Saren wants to do with that 'Conduit', exactly. It's well possible he finds it next week, and poof - Reapers. We can't risk that."
"On the other hand, if we go to Noveria now and find nothing we're destroying the only potential lead we have," Garrus cautioned.
"The entire problem is that we have far too less information," Alenko said, "So securing ways to gain information should be our top priority. I hence agree with Garrus. We should use Noveria to get Benezia."
"Great," Williams scoffed, "and what do we do in the meanwhile? Sit on our arses? Fiddle while Rome burns?"
Garrus looked confused at the cultural reference, causing Shepard to smile slightly. "Both points have their merit," he stated. "Getting a chance to capture Benezia should be our priority, but we can't invest too much in it. Williams is right, nobody is served if we do nothing. So, I'll give it a week, say. If we haven't found any other clue until then, we'll go to Noveria, whether Benezia is there or not. Or does anybody disagree here?"
"It's your call, skipper..." Williams began.
"Obviously, but I'm looking for input here!" Shepard declared.
"So, what are we going to do in that week?" Williams asked.
Shepard shrugged. "I know one or two things I could turn my attention towards. It would essentially be keeping ourselves busy, but that's why I'd limit that to a certain amount of time."
"It sounds like a good compromise," Alenko said, "Williams is right, we can't just wait for eternity for something that might not even happen, but we can wait some time on the hope of getting a better result."
Shepard raised his glass, a non-alcoholic drink, and grinned. "I drink to that. So that seems settled." He took a sip and shrugged again. "Any other issues anybody wants to bring up?"
There were some issues. For example, Alenko brought up the status of the other marines and Garrus reminded the Commander again to take care of a Engineering schedule that would leave people over to also take care of maintaining the Mako. However, as time went on, the conversation became less serious and official, and more friendly banter and tales telling.
Everybody seemed to be in good spirits. Garrus and Alenko seemed a bit awkward at times, but both were loosening up, as was Liara, who had been somewhat quiet in the beginning. On the other hand, Williams and Wrex were as boisterous in their tales and banter as expected, while Tali could score points with her humorous dry remarks.
They all held back with the alcohol, though. There was no telling how quickly they would have to leave the Citadel again, so they might need a clear head. Besides, Shepard still had another appointment this evening.
"..so I simply threw the turian at the group. Hit them square, they all fell down. I could pull a gun to me and escape," Wrex was just finishing up a story.
"I do see why we have him on the team," Tali remarked.
Williams laughed. "See, that's how it's done!" she proclaimed loudly. "Don't you agree Shep?" She paused. "Err, I mean..."
Shepard laughed. "Now, that's language progression. 'Shep' now?"
"Uh... I mean, Shepard. Commander." Williams corrected herself.
"Shepard-Commander?" Shepard laughed again. "Well, that's certainly unique. I don't think I've ever been called that, or that I will ever be called that again."
"I didn't mean to..." Williams began.
However, Shepard interrupted her: "Don't sweat it. It's no problem... Will." He grinned.
The squad laughed, and Williams harrumphed. "Okay, don't ever call me that again, skipper. Ashley, Williams, Chief, but please not 'Will'."
Shepard shrugged. "Okay, Ashley."
"Ah..." Ashley made unsurely.
"Oh come on, I think we all have been together through enough fights to go to first name base," Shepard declared.
"If you truly have no problem with that it works for me," Kaidan said, "but expect it to take some time for me to get used to it."
"I think I'll opt out of that," Garrus refused, "There's probably just too much ingrained turian hierarchical training in me."
"It's only fair enough," Wrex said, "You never once called me Urdnot, either. Though 'Shepard' has a certain sound to it. Your first name is kinda lame."
"Why thank you, Urdnot," Shepard joked flatly.
"Very well, Jonathan," Liara said. "Maybe it's time to synchronize addresses to personal names. After all, you call your entire Spectre entourage by personal names already."
"She has a point there, Jon," Tali agreed.
Williams raised an eyebrow at that. She must've noticed how causally Tali has already used my first name. I wonder who else did.
"It is a good point indeed," Kaidan joined the consensus, "so I'll join that 'address standardization', too." He grinned at using the term.
"Oh fine," Ashley said. "We're one big happy family now where everybody uses everybody else's first name. Or second name in Wrex' case, but that amounts to the same."
Shepard laughed.
Ashley shot an overly 'hostile' glance towards him: "But don't think I'll forget this episode, skipper."
Shepard gulped in a jokingly exaggerated manner.
The conversation turned to other topics again. Everybody was still a bit unsure about using the humans' first names, including they themselves, but they gradually got the hang of it, and the talk became more lively. Tali especially seemed to get ever more enthusiastic, until she finally declared: "What are we all sitting here, anyway? The Flux seems to have a truly great dancing area."
"That sounds like fun," Wrex remarked. "Imagine how quickly the dancing floor would clear if I entered it. However, I'll pass."
"Yeah, that's not exactly my forte, either," Ashley said.
"Looking at the customers of the dance floor, I don't think they require highly sophisticated dancing skills here," Liara observed.
"It sounds like a great idea, in any case," Kaidan commented. "I'm in."
"Then let's go," Tali urged, "You, too, Liara?"
The three rose from the table and made their way to the dance floor.
Tali and Kaidan had the first dance, while Liara danced by herself. Shepard saw how the asari elegantly used her moves to reposition herself away from an all too direct admirer. It was a well executed and graceful maneuver. Meanwhile, Tali and Kaidan seemed to have found some common dance routine. Both actually looked very skilled in doing so.
"I never knew the LT, Kaidan, I mean, can dance so well, " Ashley remarked.
"Me, neither," Shepard agreed.
He wondered what it was like dancing like that with Tali. Last time he pretty much had rather only watched her (or maybe stared at her) rather than having joined in the dancing. He was not jealous of Kaidan or anything, that would have been highly silly, but he did wonder what it would be like to be in his place. Well, one way to find out, isn't there?
"Well, I can't let myself be outdone by him, now can I?" he asked Ashley rhetorically, and stood up.
He walked onto the dance floor and began to move. Truth be told, he had not done so in some years now. He probably was a bit rusty, and not doing all too well - however, as Liara had observed few people in Flux seemed to be dancing experts, so he did not stand out. He did not want to push Kaidan away, so at the beginning he danced alone.
Tali eventually spotted him and danced her way towards him.
He smiled at her rhythmic move and her graceful pose. He tried to match her movements, but he did not have much success in that. It did not matter, though. It was enjoyable to see Tali so lively in front of him, and to at least try to reach some synchronization with her. There was a certain fascination in trying to keep up with her, to move in accord with her.
He wondered if he had missed out on something the last years, or whether it was just her. He rather assumed the latter.
However, eventually Tali apparently just could not tolerate his insufficiencies any more. Her right arm reached out and slightly corrected the positioning of Shepard's left arm. Shepard was surprised, but after a while rather pleasantly so. She expanded her dancing aides to both his arms and his torso. Her three fingers always found the right spot to correct his position. Her fingers thus wandered all over his upper body, if only periodically so. It was not at all an unpleasant experience.
A new music track began to play. Shepard let his arm fall down at his side. Tali grabbed it decisively and brought it up again. He in turn grabber her arm. She looked up. He grinned. She looked down again. I should control myself more, but that's at times rather difficult. They let go of each other arms again.
He returned to making some rather uncoordinated movements that might pass for dancing in this environment. Two hands grabbed his shoulders. He was surprised that it were Tali's. She looked up, and there was something cocky in the gesture. He had no doubt that now she was grinning. Her hands slided down his arms, three strong, gloved fingers that grazed over his shirt. He faintly grinned himself now. Tali took hold of his lower arms, and he in turn now grabbed hers. In that position, they resumed to dance.
A small part of Shepard wondered how it might look to others, especially the squad, but by the largest part did not care and did not even think about it. The largest part of Shepard's mind was busy keeping hos body to move in tact with Tali's, and another large part just did not work at all, too captured by the moment.
Eventually, though, he was snapped out of it.
Kaidan was next to him, and practically shouted into his ears: "Ah, Shep... Jon. Emily Wong is here."
She was Shepard's other appointment for the evening. Now that he had returned to the Citadel, it was time for the longer interview proper. He stopped moving and looked somewhat sheepishly at Tali. She looked downward again, and both let go of each other. Shepard left the dancing floor, but not without looking over his shoulder constantly. Tali shortly after left the area as well.
Emily looked stunning. She was wearing an even more risque dress than last time he had seen her. Basically, it were just some stripes of cloth covering the important parts plus some more, but there were more holes between the stripes than stripes themselves. And all of it was held in flaming red, orange and yellow vying for attention.
Maybe for too much attention.
"Commander Shepard!" she called out as he came near her, "I..."
She did not finish. Could not finish anything any more.
A shot rang through Flux. People screamed and threw themselves at the ground. Shepard saw blood spilling from Emily's head. The reporter fell slowly down, as in a slow motion recording.
Shepard's instincts took over. He knew the phenomena from battle experience. Bullet time.
He leaped towards the ground, too, rolled himself over and then ran in a covered position toward the next table. He threw the table over, so that it would face into the direction the shot came from, and then crouched behind it.
Where is Tali, damnit?
He looked frantically around. People were still moving surreally slow in his perception.
There she is.
In fact she came running towards him, around the by now emptied dance floor, jumping from make-shift cover to cover. She had a pistol drawn. He ran towards her.
"You brought a pistol along, too?" he asked. She just nodded. "I love your paranoia!" he exclaimed grinning and drew his own pistol.
"We need to get to the others," Tali said.
Shepard nodded, and began to move, followed by Tali. He rushed to his toppled table, but as he reached it he heard Tali shout: "Jon! Behind us!"
He whirled around. Some people he had though to be just normal visitors to the bar had banded together into a group. A group in an all together too well organized formation. They drew weapons and began to open fire. Tali, who had not yet reached the table, threw herself at the ground and responded the fire.
Several shots hit her.
"Tali, no!" Shepard shouted. He assumed she had brought a shield generator along, seeing as she had brought a weapon along. He had. However, it had been a hail of bullets, and he knew that potentially even a single bullet penetrating her envirosuit could be fatal to her.
Fatal. To her.
He was kneeling on one knee when he saw it. With an inarticulate roar he jumped up from his position and threw himself at the attackers. All humans, as he saw, about four or five people with rifles. While he had just a pistol.
He could maybe have defeated them, with the help of the others, had he stayed in cover. But he did not have the same time. The longer Tali would lie there with suit penetrations, the more likely was an infection, the more likely was a deadly infection. So, instead he charged against superior numbers and equipment.
He kept his roaring battle cry, while flickering, blue dark energy surrounded him. He formed it to a warp which he threw against his enemies. Immediately pain ran through his head. He had never experienced that before, but he ignored it. He was amazed at the scope of the warp: To his utter surprise, it seemed to affect them all. That's utterly impossible.
Of course he did not dwell on it. Instead he kept firing his pistol until it overheated to the point of nearly burning his hand after he had removed all security locks. He threw it away and instead picked up Tali's pistol to continue firing. Most of all, though, he used biotics. A constant storm of swirling dark energy seemed to surround him now, protecting him against all enemy fire and allowing him to toss his enemies aside without many problems.
All the while the pain in his head intensified. Shit, shit, shit. In another situation Shepard might have wondered what this was, but now he was too busy. Enemies fell down around him, but he could hardly pay attention to that anymore as the headache grew ever stronger.
A shot pierced through his biotics and shields. The sniper. He turned around and saw a movement behind one of the Quasar gambling machines. He sent out his biotic energy and lifted the sniper, a salarian surprisingly, into the air, where a hail of bullets riddled him. However, that sent Shepard over the edge.
The biotic maelstrom around him faltered, and his vision began to gray out. His head seemed to nearly explode in pain. Is that what Alenko is feeling constantly? Shepard wondered.
Then everything became black.