Huh.
Conversation context · String 159726
InvisibleGaming
Making the invisible visible
This initial LE1 page is generated from the explicit Henchman_Ash plot-data group (element 8382).
Time_for_3_aliens_discussed (conditional 906, element 9632)Time_for_4_sister_story (conditional 907, element 9635)Time_for_5_armistice_day (conditional 908, element 9636)Time_for_6_discuss_situation (conditional 916, element 9665)Time_for_10_sister_story (conditional 920, element 9682)Time_for_9_aliens_discussed (conditional 921, element 9683)Time_for_11_armistice_day (conditional 922, element 9684)None
Set_romance_active_True (transition 2486, element 8387)Check_Ash_and_Liara_Active (conditional 848, element 9197)Time_for_7_empty_locker (conditional 901, element 9609)Time_for_4_sister_story (conditional 907, element 9635)Time_for_5_armistice_day (conditional 908, element 9636)Time_for_6_discuss_situation (conditional 916, element 9665)Time_for_10_sister_story (conditional 920, element 9682)Time_for_11_armistice_day (conditional 922, element 9684)Time_for_8_culmination (conditional 931, element 9705)Check_Romance_Buddy_dialog_count (conditional 851, element 9257)Romance/Buddy_less_than_3 (conditional 852, element 9263)Time_for_7_empty_locker (conditional 901, element 9609)Time_for_3_aliens_discussed (conditional 906, element 9632)Time_for_4_sister_story (conditional 907, element 9635)Time_for_5_armistice_day (conditional 908, element 9636)Time_for_6_discuss_situation (conditional 916, element 9665)Time_for_10_sister_story (conditional 920, element 9682)Time_for_9_aliens_discussed (conditional 921, element 9683)Time_for_11_armistice_day (conditional 922, element 9684)Time_for_8_culmination (conditional 931, element 9705)Cancel_Romance (transition 2770, element 9029; inferred from shared feature name and ancestry)Set_Romance/Buddy_count (transition 2858, element 9255; inferred from shared feature name and ancestry)Start_Ashley_Romance (transition 2859, element 9279; inferred from shared feature name and ancestry)Advance_Romance_Buddy_Count (transition 2981, element 9637; inferred from shared feature name and ancestry)1,182 distinct lines in 214 conversations. Search all dialogue records. Open a conversation below to read its lines.
Huh.
Hmm.
Oh.
Mm-hmm.
Commander. You have a minute to talk?
All right.
I figured since the crew was so small, you might be more permissive.
I mean, that helmsman of yours. Most places, he'd be at captain's mast every day.
No, ma'am. Well, maybe.
No, sir. Well, maybe.
I know things are different aboard the Normandy, but-- I'm concerned about the aliens. Vakarian and Wrex.
I know things are different aboard the Normandy, but-- I'm concerned about the turian. Vakarian.
I know things are different aboard the Normandy, but-- I'm concerned about the krogan. Wrex.
With all due respect, Commander, should they have full access to the ship?
With all due respect, Commander, should he have full access to the ship?
This is the most advanced ship in the Alliance Navy.
I don't think we should give them free reign to poke around the vital systems.
I don't think we should give him free reign to poke around the vital systems.
Engines. Sensors. Weapons.
I'm not sure I'd call the Council races allies.
I'm not sure I'd call the krogan allies.
Sir! No, sir!
Ma'am! No, ma'am!
I'm sorry. I was out of line. I'll get back to my duties, Commander.
Under orders to let aliens gather military intelligence? I can't believe that was the Alliance's intention.
I'd be more comfortable if they didn't have access to engineering and the CIC.
I'd be more comfortable if he didn't have access to engineering and the CIC.
We--humanity, I mean--have to learn to rely on ourselves.
I don't think we should turn down allies. I just think we shouldn't bet everything on them staying allies.
No, sir! That's patriotism.
No, ma'am! That's patriotism.
I don't mean we should mistreat them, Commander. I just think we should be prepared to go it without them.
As noble as the Council members seem now, if their backs are against the wall, they'll abandon us.
A pessimist is what an optimist calls a realist.
I don't think it's a grudge. I think it's--
Look. If you're fighting a bear, and the only way for you to survive is to sic your dog on it and run, you'll do it. As much as you love your dog, it isn't human.
It's not racism. Not really. Members of their species will always be more important to them than humans are.
My family's defended the Alliance since it was founded.
Terra Firma is a pack of jackals. The founders had ideals. These days they just play off xenophobia and bigotry.
I hope my reasons are more rational.
My father, grandfather, great-grandmother -- they all picked up a rifle and swore the Oath of Service.
I guess we just tend to think of Earth's interests as our own.
Couldn't say, Commander.
We probably have a lot in common. You join up to carry on the tradition?
You're lucky. I spent most of my career as groundside garrison.
I read about Mindoir. The Alliance screwed the pooch on that one. Should have had a bigger garrison.
Is that why you're out here? To take the fight to the pirates?
Amen to that.
So why are you out here? Just trying to get away from Earth?
Glad to hear it. I'd hate to think you're out here for a free college education.
Yeah. I still remember my first field exercise on Titan.
When we hit mud, the reality hit me: "I'm the first person who's ever stood here."
Then my drill instructor kicked me in the ass. I went face-first into the muck. He spent the next five minutes chewing me out for "goldbricking."
Oh, Lord. You went to the Macapá boot camp too?
Yeah, Gunny Ellison's still reaming out recruits down there. Kicking ass and using words like "inveigle" and "pusillanimous."
Most satisfying part of the job, Commander.
But right now, it's not the best place to be. I guess without a family, you had no reason to stay.
No, sir.
No, ma'am.
Mainly I've been groundside. Part of the surface garrison forces.
I did get a rotation on a space station for training. "Every marine, a rifleman; every rifleman, zee-gee certified."
I-- No, sir!
I-- No, ma'am!
Anyway, that's why I haven't served with many aliens, Commander.
Aye, aye, Commander.
It won't be a problem, Commander. You say "jump," I say "how high." You tell me to kiss a turian, I'll ask which cheek.
You never know, Commander.
That depends, sir. If you ordered me to kiss a superior officer, that would be a violation of the regs concerning fraternization.
That would make it an illegal order. I'd be required to decline, and relieve you of command.
Sir.
Anything else you need, Commander?
Tell me you didn't hear that.
Oh, shoot me now.
One of my sisters.
Uh, I should be inspecting my firearm.
No. You don't.
Sorry about that. It won't happen again.
Until I get home and kill her.
That's Sarah. The youngest.
Surprised to see you here, sir. Thought you'd be chatting up what's-her-name. T'Soni.
It's not. I just thought we were getting along pretty well. Sir.
Hmm. All right. But I'm the jealous type, Commander. Just so you know.
No worries, sir. Probably for the best anyway. The regs frown on fraternization.
I read you, sir.
I won't keep you any more. Have fun. Commander.
Scuttlebutt says you've got a bit of thing for her.
I could understand why. The crew's off-limits, with the regs against fraternization. And at least she looks like a woman.
So you are interested in her.
'Course, it could just be politics. Alien diplomat's daughter? Us under orders to make nice with the bug-eyed monsters?
So what's up, Shepard?
Anyway. Interested in a quick drink? It's a special occasion.
What's up? You didn't come by to eavesdrop on family mail.
Sorry, Commander. Too much in the family mindset. My sisters and I have always been close.
Yeah, we've always been close. Me and my sisters, especially.
With Dad on duty so much, I had to help Mom raise them.
Sorry. I forgot about your family situation.
Boom goes my promotion.
Ask me to clear a bunker of armed hostiles, no problem. Dealing with the foot in my mouth? Not so good with that.
Yeah. Military families, eh? With schedules like that, it's a wonder we ever have kids any more.
Yeah. I'm the oldest, then Abby, then Lynn. Sarah's the youngest. She's still in high school.
With four girls, Dad used to say he felt more outnumbered at home than on maneuvers.
Yeah. Took any crap posting he could get that offered space time.
You know what? He worked his ass off trying to get recognized. But he never made it above Serviceman Third Class.
He was real proud when I made Chief. First thing he did was salute.
You must know what military wives are like. Strong because they have to be. Able to raise kids while Dad's away on a six-month cruise.
She has a degree in planetary geology. She and Dad both wanted to see new worlds.
She gave up her career to raise us, though.
All over. Same as you, I expect.
All over.
We transferred a half-dozen times before I finished grade school. You go where Personnel Command sends you, right?
I guess that's why I'm so tight with my sisters. We'd have to leave all our friends every two or three years.
Don't knock show tunes. I might have to take exception.
Things were tense between Sarah and me for a while. Then we... bonded.
Sarah got herself a boyfriend who wanted to go faster than she did. Mike.
I didn't think he was a bad kid. Just pushy. Lynn would send me these worried vid-mails, and I'd tell her to relax.
Yeah. 'Course, if he didn't ask at all, I'd wonder if he thought Sarah was ugly. Damned if you do, damned if you don't.
I was on active duty. Sarah's graduating high school this year. This was only a couple years back.
They were on Amaterasu. At the time, I was assigned to Czarnobóg. Same cluster, but a dozen LY away.
Close enough to talk regularly, too far to make it back in an emergency. I couldn't afford a fast-packet flight.
They're going to keep their jeans on around my sisters. Unless they want to get up close and personal with pruning shears.
They have their uses, ma'am. Not all of them keep their brains in their pants.
Mike thought they'd go for a romantic walk in the woods. 'Cause he figured it was past time they did the deed.
She levered Mike face-first into a tree and left. Didn't have a scratch on her. Good thing Mom and Dad had us all learn some kind of self-defense.
I took emergency leave and walked Sar to school for a few days.
It was only a dozen light years. Like a day's cruise. It's not like I was going to Earth or something.
Lynn did pistol practice, but didn't like it. She's kind of nervous. Sar took aikido.
Abby decided to learn the sword. She always was a little weird. Likes big skirts and tops you have to tie her into.
They do great things to her figure, though...
One of Dad's friends taught me marine hand-to-hand.
She said it wouldn't solve the real problem. And she and Mike would both become household names. It was a small colony.
I said it was her call to make. That we should let her do it her way. Mom was pretty pissed about that.
Embarrassed the hell out of her. But it was worth it in the end.
My last day out, Mike was waiting for us. Sar had told her friends, so everyone at school knew what he did. He wasn't happy.
I wanted to snap him in half. But Sar gave me this look. This "let me handle it, I need to do this alone" look.
She kept her cool--God bless her--as he screamed in her face. She just let him vent. Then he tried to punch her.
I swear, she just flowed around him. Next thing I know, he's face-down on the sidewalk, and there's blood everywhere.
Better. I'm more or less a straight-up puncher.
When he swung, she just-- she wasn't there anymore. And he fell.
She helped him stop the bleeding, and had me call an ambulance. She told the paramedics he fell.
Before they took him to the hospital, Mike touched Sar's arm. I thought he was going to end up on the ground again.
But he hung his head, whispered "I'm sorry," and started crying.
And she hugged him.
The Williams women are a decisive bunch, Commander. We do things when we're ready. Not before, not after.
Dad always wanted to serve in space. But he wanted us to have real ground under our feet. He'd say, "Space is beautiful, but you can't raise a family there."
"I cannot rest from travel: I will drink life to the lees. All times I have enjoy'd greatly, have suffer'd greatly, both with those that loved me, and alone."
"For always roaming with a hungry heart. Much have I seen and known. Cities of men, and manners, climates, councils, governments..."
Just because I can drill you between the eyes at a hundred meters doesn't mean I can't like sensitive stuff.
Just don't spread it around.
Not everyone can bust up a slaver ring on their first tour, Commander.
Not everyone goes through the crap you had to, Commander.
Not everyone can win the Star of Terra, Commander.
Some of us just live ordinary lives.
Doubt it'll work on geth, sir, but I'll give it a shot.
Just like to remember why we fight.
"Ulysses" was Dad's favorite poem. Every time he shipped out, he recorded me reading it. He had a dozen versions when he retired.
He also brewed his own beer and played a mean baritone sax.
I sure hope so. I read it to his grave every time I go home.
Dad passed on a few years back. He's probably still watching, though.
So behave.
Dead on, skipper. He's with God now.
You know. From heaven. Wherever that is.
That's not a problem with you, is it? That I believe in God?
I'm glad you're open-minded about it.
Yeah. Guess you have.
I've met a few people who were really weirded out by my faith. Because I work in space, I can't believe in a higher power? Geez.
Hello? Have you people looked out the window? How can you look at this galaxy and not believe in something?
Commander, I'm not some kind of zealot. I believe in God. What everyone else believes is their business.
Just my commanding officer, huh? We'll have to see about that.
You should.
Mm. Too bad.
Me? I'm not saying anything, skipper.
I appreciate that, skipper.
I should double-check my gear before we move out. Those krogan aren't going to kill themselves.
I should get back to my duties. Didn't mean to take up so much of your time.
Hey, skipper. Figured you'd be busy with tactical briefings and whatnot.
Don't know what I think about us attacking today, of all days. Kind of an ill omen.
The end of it, yeah. My family always marks it.
Just don't wave it around, skipper. Wrex might be hungry.
Hey, skipper. Any interest in a small drink? It's a special occasion.
You're always on duty, Shepard.
I only have enough to toast the day, not the captain.
All right. But you know, a 'still is the first thing the engineers install after engines.
It's Armistice Day. When the First Contact War ended. My family always marks it.
I'm the only Williams here. I guess you'd be the only other one interested in it.
Since I'm the only Williams aboard, I thought I'd ask you.
Maybe not. Maybe I'd rather share this with you. You ever consider that?
Nah, you just happened by at the right time.
In our family, it's not really a celebration. More like an obligation.
Don't tell me you don't know about my family. My commanders always find out. It's not in my files or something?
There's a reason for the crap assignments.
I don't always play games, sir.
I'm General Williams' granddaughter. The commander of the Shanxi garrison in the War.
"The only human ever to surrender to an alien race."
"A Williams has to be better than the best, if only to avoid suspicion." That's what my Dad told me the night before he retired.
Cowardice. That's what the Terra Firma Party calls it.
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.
It takes a special kind of thickheaded to march into a job where your family's blacklisted. I did it anyway.
I'm not going to let our name go down with Arnold and Quisling. Granddad deserved better than that.
Would it make a difference? He's gone now. Dad's gone, too. And who would it impress? I'll never be good enough for the Alliance.
Look at who I am, Shepard. Do you ever hear me ask for help?
It's not that bad things don't happen to me. If you stay with me long enough, maybe I'll tell you about some of them. But I deal with them myself.
I don't need a shoulder to cry on, a knight to rescue me, or a man to make me happy. This is who I am. I like her. And you better like her, too.
The turians wrecked the orbitals in the first wave, and occupied the major cities. They sat in orbit, dropping rocks on anything that moved.
Granddad dispersed the troops. But when they went into the cities for supplies, the turians would wreck a block to eliminate one fire team.
Civilians were dying. His troops were starving. And he couldn't contact Alliance High Command. So he surrendered the garrison.
He was relieved of command as soon as Shanxi was liberated. They brought him back to Earth in irons, but there was never a trial.
They quietly demoted him, and stuck him behind a desk. He retired a year later, and spent the rest of his life working construction in the colonies.
Sometimes we hear about attempts to get him exonerated in some official way. Nothing ever comes of them.
No, sir. I'd die to stop him, if that's what it takes.
Him, and anyone else who tries to screw with the Alliance.
If everyone else can look at Shanxi and say, "This is why humanity needs to be stronger," then so can I. I'm entitled.
So. You still interested in me? Baggage and all?
That's awful. Tell me you got that out of a fortune cookie.
Awfully smug, Shepard. What makes you think you can keep me in line?
Maybe I'm not. I guess you've been too busy saving the galaxy to think about it.
But hey, once we save the galaxy, maybe the Alliance will get its act together. Start acting like an actual government.
Have to disagree with you there, skipper. Giving aliens the run of our most advanced ship? Kowtowing to the Council?
That came out wrong. We may not always agree, but you get the job done for the Alliance.
How can you say that, given everything we've seen out here? They're already acting like Saren is our problem. Already siccing us on the bear.
The Council races will always think of themselves first. It's-- human nature. We can't afford to trust them. Not if the survival of humanity is on the line.
I don't know what God intends, Shepard.
I don't think humans have some divine mandate, if that's what you mean. I don't think we're superior.
That's-- Huh. I guess I never thought of it that way. All "big picture," I mean.
It doesn't make what happened to Granddad any better, though.
Well. At least somebody knows that.
And a Star of Terra recipient, no less. Granddad must love that.
I thought you'd understand. You've had your back against the wall, too. You did what you had to.
You and he would have gotten along. He was a tough old bastard.
The brass will think I'm trading you favors for promotions. My favors don't come that cheap.
You have to do better than that to keep me by your side, Shepard.
I know. It's hard to be a patriot and pissed at the government, though. Who am I supposed to vote for?
Shepard, I'm a soldier. You're my commander. If you give me an order, I'll follow it.
I don't expect you to treat me differently from anyone else under your command. And if you have been -- quit it.
I thought you knew me better than that.
I'm a little complex, but I'm not some Freud-case.
I never intended to "undermine" you, Shepard. I believe in you. I wish you'd believe in anyone but yourself.
With your permission, sir, I'll return to my duties.
You're probably right. It still pisses me off.
More than you know.
I have a feeling things will come to a head soon. But don't worry, Shepard. I'll protect you.
So now you know. Gonna kick me off the ship, skipper?
I also play a mean game of pool.
Just consider me a fire-and-forget missile.
Not to get all cheesy, but you're the first C.O. who's ever said that to me. Thanks, skipper.
I'm sure Kirrahe wants to brief you. I should get out of your hair.
But anyway. I've got things to do before we land. I'm sure you do, too.
I hope we can get the Council to give us a hand, skipper.
Alenko-- the lieutenant. I'd hate to think his loss meant nothing.
I'd hate to think we nuked a perfectly nice world for nothing.
We've got our suit recordings. That's something.
Hey now, Mr. Negativity.
You gave me a damned good reason to think we should give the Council a shot. Don't tell me you've changed your mind.
Some things you have to take on faith, Shepard. There's a reason for everything. Even if we don't understand it.
You always this mood-swingy? Or do I just bring it out in you?
Ah, the three little words every woman wants to hear from a man. "I was wrong."
All right. No harm done.
No. Usually when some smug bastard jerks me around, I just clock him.
But that would be striking a superior officer. Sir.
So you used my faith to manipulate me. That's great, Shepard.
I thought you took me seriously. Guess I was wrong, huh?
Maybe I do, Commander.
Oh, so now we're a couple? Couples don't manipulate each other.
If you don't mind, I have duties I should be attending to.
Commander.
Genocidal sentient battleships do kind of grab your attention. Got mine, anyway.
Hey, skipper. Seems like everything's coming together.
After what we saw on Virmire, it better come together.
Alenko-- the lieutenant. I'd hate to think his loss meant nothing.
If we get Udina on our side, he'll tell the Council to take a flying leap. If necessary.
The bigger they are, the more megatons we chuck. We've got warning now. We'll be ready.
And they say I'm cynical.
There's a reason for everything that happens, Shepard. Even if you don't understand it at the time.
What you did on Torfan. It was a hard call, but it gave you the strength you needed on this mission.
What happened on Akuze. It's not easy to lose your unit. I know. But it gave you the drive you needed on this mission.
Your assignment to Elysium. It put you in the right place at the right time. Your character made you rise to the occasion.
And that got you here. Commanding the finest tin can in the Alliance fleet. This is exactly where the galaxy needs you to be.
No pressure.
Wouldn't mind a foot massage, sir.
God, you're awful! How do you come up with these things?
About a meter away. Maybe 1.2 meters.
Sorry. I'll be serious.
I-- I need time to think. We've been focused on the mission. When we're done, it'll be different. I swear.
You all right with that?
The cheering mobs will never know how much you've sacrificed, Commander.
Glad to hear it, skipper.
I hope you can wait.
You are totally shameless. You need your own line of greeting cards.
That's the spirit, skipper. Keep a stiff upper something.
I'll warn you, though. I'm a hellcat off the battlefield, too.
Sleep tight, Shepard.
Hey, Commander. Guess everything's gonna hit the fan soon, huh?
I hope we'll have some free time after all this is over.
You make me sound like some kind of math problem. Geez.
Heh. Yeah, you're right. I just hope-- Well, my sister Sarah always says, "Don't miss tomorrow for thinking about today." Smart kid. Not that I'd ever tell her that.
You're so dense. Sir.
Good luck, skipper. We have to convince the Council to act. No pressure.
How you holding up, skipper?
You're an optimist, Shepard. I guess we'll have to consider this part of humanity's learning experience.
Don't start second-guessing yourself now. The Alliance needs you more than ever.
I hate being right.
You're an optimist, skipper. Times like this, I'm glad I'm not.
Shepard, if you ever need to talk-- Hey, you listened to me bitch about my granddad.
You can talk to me, too. It's only fair, right?
Right. And why would anyone want to live with that? May as well just give up and wait for the Reapers, huh?
I've got equipment to check on.
If you get done with your "goldbricking," just let me know.
Gunny Ellison'd be real disappointed if you give up now, Commander.
Me too. What you said before, about the Council being part of God's plan? I'd love a peek at His map right now.
You know my feelings on the Council, skipper. I just can't believe Udina sold out the Alliance.
I was surprised Udina bought into it. I guess he's like any other politician.
The Council is used to being the biggest kid on the playground. They don't want to believe Daddy's coming to pick them up.
And eat them, I guess.
That's the spirit, skipper.
Whatever you come up with, you can count me in.
I know I'm not the easiest person in the world to get to know. So I'll do you a favor, just this once.
I... want you to be happy. Whatever you need, I'll help.
There, you made me say it. Boom goes my feminine mystique.
Oh, I can take charge if you want.
You better.
Well now. That's a whole new spin for "on the floor and give me twenty," huh?
Yes.
Tsk. Now, what will it take to prove I'm in prime condition, skipper?
Well, geez, Shepard. If you can't laugh after that, when will you?
Well, duty calls. Get up to the bridge, skipper. I've got other weapons to check out.
Hey, Shepard? Whatever happens down there, I just wanted to say...
Wait. You know what? I'm not telling you. You want to hear this, you'll just have to come back to me.
Skipper?
We had to do this, Shepard. You know that. There was no other way.
And you'll always be the skipper to me. "O Captain, my Captain..."
Dad loved all those sappy poets. Mom was more into Plath.
Next time, I'll stick with Tennyson.
I'm not a "word person," Shepard. Other people say what I mean better than I do.
We're mutineers, sailing a stolen warship into the most hostile system in the galaxy.
I couldn't blame the Council for calling us reckless or aggressive.
I've had some things to think about since coming aboard.
You're assuming anyone on this ship will survive the next week. Optimist.
Falling on your sword for the politicians? God. Stop being noble.
Just call us humanity's best and brightest.
Believe me, then. "You're doing the right thing."
And if we don't, at least we won't have to face the firing squad.
"Death closes all. But something ere the end, some work of noble note may yet be done, not unbecoming men that strove with Gods."
We'll get home again, Shepard. I believe you'll lead us through. "O Captain. My Captain."
No. I see a strong, passionate man. With a great ass.
Trying a frontal assault? Hm. All that training, you'd think they'd teach you the best approach is indirect. To draw the enemy out of their fixed defenses.
There are regs against this, you know. You ready to deal with the consequences?
Is that an admission of something, Shepard? I have a better idea. How about I lead?
I've spent my whole life fighting to get what I want. To get it done, I had to bury a lot of things.
During that whole time, not even once did I feel like I was worth what I was fighting for.
You make me feel good enough.
Bold words, Shepard. I like bold.
You've only scratched the surface. Scratch a little deeper.
You're worried about the crew, aren't you? All right. We'll put a pin in it. Just so they don't get all jealous.
After, though--assuming we don't get the firing squad--I'm going to blow your mind.
Guess I'll head back to my bunk and, um... find something to entertain myself. Sleep tight, Shepard.
Mm. No, I think you're gonna have to come here.
This isn't an act, Shepard. But you'll learn.
Make me.
I don't think of you as one. But I won't be all squishy and submissive either. This is going to be a give-and-take. I'll show you what I mean.
Sure. I was hoping to get a minute of your time. Off the record.
Sure. I was just watching some mail from home.
Let's pretend this never happened.
No, ma'am. And anyway, scuttlebutt says he's already sweet on someone.
Of course not, sir. Fraternization is against regulations.
Fraternization is against regulations, ma'am. Don't ask, don't tell.
It won't happen again. And, uh, I have no interest in the lieutenant.
Sure, if you have time. Figured you'd be busy with tactical briefings and whatnot.
I'm off duty until tomorrow. I was going to have a small drink. Bit of a celebration. If you're interested.
I should get back to my duties, skipper. Rifles don't maintain themselves. Not yet, anyway.
I'm sorry, Commander. I need to get my duties squared away.
I wouldn't mind talking more later, though.
I don't care what you sleep with. Not after you tried to get me to do a threesome.
I respect you as an officer. But keep me out of your egocentric little fantasies. Sir.
All right? You mean, did you break my heart?
My heart doesn't get broken, Shepard. Bruised a little, maybe.
Just use, um, protection. Tinfoil hat, maybe?
Can't say I'm better. Sorry for anything I said back there. I just-- I don't want any deaths on my hands. And it's my fault.
I know. If we hadn't gotten pinned down, you would have been there to help him.
It's funny. I don't have any fear of dying for the Alliance. But when I think of someone dying for me--
If you don't mind my asking, how did you deal with the losses on Torfan?
Uh, if you don't mind my asking, how did you deal with the losses on Akuze?
If you don't mind my asking, how did you deal with the losses on Elysium?
Yeah, I guess that's all we can do.
I could never do that. Not before, and definitely not now.
I have to be worth Kaidan's life.
Yeah. A good guy like him must be with God now, huh? So nothing to be sad about. He must be happier.
Thanks for the advice, skipper.
Thanks for the advice, Commander.
We've got a hard fight ahead.
Fleets of AI dreadnoughts? Who've exterminated all life dozens of times over?
I think the odds are against us.
Damn straight we will, skipper.
I don't plan to lie down and die, skipper. Don't worry about that.
I don't plan to lie down and die, Commander. Don't worry about that.
But I'm infantry. Against Reapers, my rifle may as well fire spitballs. I won't have a place in this war.
That's what pisses me off. Not being able to shoot back.
A little spooky how you handled that Jeong guy.
Didn't figure you'd know how to speak corporate.
You make it sound easy. Frankly, I just wanted to put a few rounds in him and leave.
That would be a waste of a fine ass, sir.
Painful. Think I'll leave that to you. No offense.
Remind me never to play poker with you.
We lost a lot of the colonists. I don't see how we could have done more, but I still feel bad about it.
You all right? That must've been like what you saw on Elysium.
I didn't think of that. I'm sorry.
Amen, skipper.
Amen, sir.
Amen, ma'am.
I mean, we are out here to protect them.
I think those people will probably be happier someplace else.
I can't figure why anyone would live groundside if they didn't get grass and blue skies.
Gotta admire those colonials. That's about the worst place for a colony I've ever seen.
Given the option, I'd get the hell out of Dodge.
You mean the rachni, right?
Like I said, the rachni are dangerous. They proved that two thousand years ago.
I think it was a mistake to let them go. But that wasn't my call to make. It was yours.
Like I said, killing a whole race isn't something I want on my conscience.
You made the right decision, skipper.
You made the right decision, sir.
You made the right decision, ma'am.
I think wiping them out was a mistake. But that wasn't my call to make. It was yours.
You know, you really should talk to T'Soni about her mom. She has to be hurting.
If you haven't talked to Dr. T'Soni, you probably should. She just lost her mom. That has to hurt.
You know, when we pick up that asari scientist, we'll have to tell her we killed her mom. That's going to suck.
Just saying, skipper.
Just saying, Commander.
They were dangerous, skipper.
They were dangerous, Commander.
They proved that two thousand years ago.
Not sure I buy Dr. T'Soni's story. About her and her mom not talking. They're family, right?
Yeah, she's probably really bad at it.
Hey, want me to ask her about her sex life? Might be illuminating.
Aw, no fun, skipper.
No fun, Commander.
I read you, Commander. I'll behave.
Hm. Scuttlebutt says otherwise.
That makes sense.
Yeah, that's true. It's funny, I never really thought about that before.
No, I guess not.
I know. But I'm not going to bet she's on our side just because Benezia didn't hug her enough. I'll keep an eye on her.
Too bad those ruins got destroyed. I mean, they lasted thousands of years. That's impressive.
Kinda wish you'd got there sooner, Commander.
No offense. I appreciate the rescue. I just wish...
Yes, sir.
Yes, ma'am.
Yes, Commander. Believe me, I understand that.
You did the best you could, Commander. It's my fault.
If I'd been more alert, we wouldn't have been cut down by an ambush.
Sir, they have flashlight heads.
They have flashlight heads, ma'am.
Our training's supposed to make us able to adapt.
I'll make sure it doesn't happen again.
Looking forward to it, skipper.
Looking forward to it, sir.
Ma'am.
No, sir. You don't.
He worked his ass off trying to get recognized. But he never got above Serviceman Third Class.
Don't knock show tunes, sir. I might have to take exception.
Lynn did pistol practice, but didn't like it. She's kind of nervous. Sar took to aikido.
If you get done with your "goldbricking," you just let me know.
I can take charge if you want.
Well now. That's a whole new spin for "on the floor and give me twenty," hm?
Tsk. What will it take to prove I'm in prime condition, skipper?
Duty calls. Get up to the bridge, skipper. I've got other weapons to check out.
Trying a frontal assault? All that training, you'd think they'd teach you the best approach is indirect. To draw the enemy out of their fixed defenses.
Guess I'll head back to my bunk and find something to entertain myself. Sleep tight, Shepard.
Mm. No, I think you'll have to come here.
Just use, uh, protection. Tinfoil hat, maybe?
This makes Jump Zero look like a porta-john. And it's the largest deep space station the Alliance has.
They must figure us for one more gang of FNGs looking for a handout.
Or maybe they just don't like humans.
You don't take much shore leave, do you, L-T?
I'll walk drag, ma'am.
Heh. Oh Lord.
If you expect to get me in a tinfoil miniskirt and thigh-high boots, I want dinner first.
Sir.
Damn straight you can't.
Yes, sir. Sorry, sir.
Aye, aye, Commander.
That your professional opinion, sir?
Looks like Saleon is doing more than cloning organs.
We know what kind of work you do here, doctor.
Garrus won't be happy we killed this guy without him.
I'm a little busy here!
Not in the middle of a fight!
Time for payback!
Saren can't run any more.
Come on! We're running out of time!
Damn geth have us at a disadvantage, Commander. Synthetic bastards don't even need space suits out here.
You can't sacrifice human lives to save the Council! What have they ever done for us?
This is bigger than humanity. Sovereign's a threat to every organic species in the galaxy!
Exactly! We can't throw away reinforcements trying to save the Council. We have to hold them back until Sovereign's exposed!
I hope you know what you're doing, Commander.
You're willing to sacrifice the Council? I sure hope you know what you're doing, Commander.
Quick! Open the station's arms. Maybe the fleet can take Sovereign down before he regains control of the station!
Looks like Saren got more than he bargained for with those upgrades.
He's dead.
I'm so glad you've decided to help us.
Of course he is.
His what?
Commandos? You didn't think that was weird?
Forget him, Commander. If he won't play ball, I'm sure someone else here will.
You better show some respect.
Rock gardens and waterfalls. Very Zen.
Why would they have so many windows if all they see outside is snow?
Your call, Commander, but I say we help.
Saren's second-in-command. She's here?
Commander? Maybe we ought to tell Liara that her mom's here. Or bring her along. It might take Benezia off-guard.
What a load of crap. You're here off-duty, breaking the law for bribe money.
Young men have funny ideas of what asari are like. I blame the extranet. And computer games.
What's your interest in Binary Helix? They do genetics work.
Yeah, I've heard that before.
Aren't we all?
Back away. Nice and slow.
Aye aye, Commander.
Safe money says Benezia had them in those shipping containers she arrived with.
Your funeral, pal.
Guess we know what Benezia had in the crates.
Just like winter back home.
Nobody lick any poles.
All this for one damned asari.
Turn off the heat, and hope the cold puts whatever you've unleashed to sleep. Nice.
Sniper! Everyone down!
Why are the turrets facing the wrong way?
They want to keep their people in as much as they want to keep others out.
A backup power system, Shepard. Must be for the station mainframe.
Can we fix it? Get this place back online?
What was that?
Animals? Wind? This place is in bad shape.
We'll need to get main power back.
The He3 fuel line's cut.
He killed himself because he was part of whatever happened here?
Damned shame. God only gives you one life.
They're locked in.
We could hot-wire the door. Looks like the trams to the subsidiary stations are beyond it.
What the hell were those things?
Hard to kill. That's all I need to know.
"Rachni?" I think I've heard that before.
Who?
She was a commando in Benezia's service. A squad of geth were with her.
Knowing the relay's location isn't enough. We need to know where to go from there.
This is gonna be a fun conversation.
Makes sense. A baby left alone in a closet until she's sixteen won't be sane.
Commander, I don't trust this thing. We know its kind are killers. The tank is rigged with acid. I recommend using it.
We'd be making a whole race extinct. I don't want that on my conscience when I go to the final judgment.
There's a reason their kind were hunted to extinction. It's better to be safe than let a dangerous race loose.
If this had happened in Tokyo, or Armstrong, or on the Citadel, the death toll would be...
If you can trust them to stay there.
I don't want to trust the safety of my little sisters to this... alien. It's better to be sure.
Let me guess. Saren, the Spectre?
Things like that never get out of control.
What the hell?
Commander. Looks like that asari "doctor" killed the guard.
Who would have those codes?
It's always a good idea to RTFM, Doctor.
Okay, that's bad. Important safety tip: don't hit big red buttons.
She must be at Rift Station, Commander.
I'm not sure I would qualify this as a miracle.
No. They're far more dangerous.
So what are we supposed to do now?
Yeah. I wouldn't be so worried if it wasn't for Wrex. He looks like he's going to blow a gasket.
It wouldn't hurt. Well, it might, actually. Just do it carefully.
I'm always ready.
If you say so. But I'm gonna keep my eye on him, if it's all the same to you.
So? Messy is our specialty. Or are you getting soft on us?
Nice. Drop that nuke from orbit and Saren can kiss his turian ass goodbye.
Not so fast, LT. Commander Shepard will need you to arm the nuke. I'll go with the salarians.
Why is it that whenever someone says "with all due respect" they really mean "kiss my ass?"
Aye, aye, Commander!
Well, this is it. Don't do anything stupid while I'm gone, LT. You too, Commander.
Yeah, I just... good luck.
I don't know. It's just weird. Going under someone else's command. I've got used to working with you... all of you.
I know. I, ah... it's been an honor serving with you, Commander.
We'll be fine, LT.
Don't worry so much. We'll see you on the other side.
You bet, Commander.
Hey... look. Kirrahe's going to say something.
Hooah, Commander!
Better him than the commander.
Not today, friend.
I decided to aim. You know, since you were standing right behind him and all.
I kinda figured.
Commander's orders.
I don't think so, friend.
I'm sorry, sir.
I'm sorry, ma'am.
I couldn't take the risk that he might injure you. Or worse.
Understood.
The guns. Over there.
There's the salarian camp.
Got an alarm hub, Commander. Think we can get some heat off us with that?
Alarm hub, Commander. Might come in handy if things go south.
We need to shut down the alarms!
Ready to move, Commander.
That did it. We shouldn't have any more trouble reaching the camp.
Nothing like a nice, relaxing stroll on the beach... blasting bad guys with my boomstick!
Mannovai is under coordinated crossfire. Check for long-range turrets helping the geth target!
Aircraft heading to perimeter stations to recharge. Bunker up before they come back!
We're getting pounded! Bunker up before the aircraft return!
Captain Kirrahe's down! Aegohr, form up with Jaeto. Hold that line!
Holding ground. Jaeto, around me. Shadow team must be getting close.
On your order, Commander.
Geth flyer. I think it's refueling.
We should take it out before it can go after Lt. Alenko and the others.
The geth obviously don't want us getting near that outpost.
Let's clear this place out.
I hope we can count on those salarians.
Saren's not here. You get to deal with us.
You helped him and you don't even know why?
I enjoyed that.
Something's not right here, Commander.
If that's what you want, Commander. I just hate leaving them like this.
You sure, Commander? Just leave them wandering? Can't stand the thought of being like that. I'd want to be put out of my misery.
Okay, Commander, but it's not right. I'd never want to end up like that. Never.
I'm with you, Shepard. No way I'd want to end up like that, and they can't outrun the blast anyway. It's all you can do.
I'm with you, Commander. The blast would get them anyway, and damn if I'd want to end up like this. No way.
Why did Saren do this? This is just wrong.
No threat here, Commander. This is... horrible.
This thing is fried. Orders, Commander?
What is that? Some kind of VI interface?
I don't think this is a VI...
Cycle? What cycle?
They're harvesting us! They're here to wipe us out!
Commander! Are you okay?
Commander, look over here. It's another beacon. Like the one on Eden Prime.
Aye, aye, Commander. I hope Alenko's paying attention.
We've got access to base security. Should be able to cut the alarms from here. Might even be able to trigger alarms on the far side of the base.
It'll clear the guards out for us, but they might be too much for Lt. Alenko and the salarians to handle.
Salarians? Captain Kirrahe said something about losing some men.
This more of that indoctrination we've heard about, Commander? What's going on here?
The captain was flanked. Aegohr, form up with Jaeto. We need to stall for time!
Krogan reinforcements! Jaeto, hold your ground! Damn it! We're being flanked!
Okay... can we hold them here? Damn it, fill those holes! Come on, Shepard. Hurry it up.
This must be where they're researching the cure for the genophage.
The geth are turning! Shepard must be getting close. Jaeto, circle around! Keep them here! Keep them....
If we keep stragglers from spreading the word to additional teams, we should be able to handle things.
Go, Commander. I'll be fine here.
You've got to hurry, LT. I can't hold out forever.
Don't worry about me. Just go.
You've got to get to the AA tower before it's too late.
What are you waiting for? Go!
Commander, set that nuke and get out! We can't hold them.... Damn it!
Suppressing fire! Cover your flank! Cover your--
You need to move fast, Commander. We can't hold them off here much longer.
Watch the corners! Suppressing fire!
This thing's ticking, Commander. We don't have a lot of time.
We're all clear on this end, but that nuke's set to go. We don't have much time.
That's the order I was waiting for!
That turret could punch some nasty holes in the Normandy.
Nice work on that gun, Commander. We've got the other one in our sights.
There's the gun. Clear those geth and get the charges set.
Charges are set. Everyone get low. Now!
Aye, aye, Commander.
Commander, can you read me?
Negative, Commander. The geth have us pinned down on the AA tower. We've taken heavy casualties. Captain Kirrahe's dead!
Negative, Commander. The geth have us pinned down on the AA tower. We've taken heavy casualties.
We'll never make the rendezvous point in time.
Bomb is in position, we're all set he--
Negative. It's too hot! Can't risk it. We'll hold them off as long as we--
Negative! Just make sure that nuke is set. We'll hold them as long as we--
It's okay, Commander. I need a couple of minutes to finish arming the nuke. Go get them and meet me back here.
Watch out. More hostiles incoming.
This route's a no-go. They have height and cover.
The L-T's right. We should bypass, see if we can take them in flank.
Hold on, Commander. Her mother's working with Saren. Can we trust her?
Like an oven here.
I think my eyeballs are dried out.
Dare you to spit over the side.
Protheans built to last. Looks like a lava flow poured in here.
This would make a hell of a weapon. Anything that can vaporize rock could maul an armored column.
Saren's looking for the Conduit. Think fast, Ms. Prothean Expert.
What the hell was that?
Gonna be close, skipper.
I wouldn't touch anything.
Feels like we're being watched. And not by the geth.
Let's just find the Conduit and get the hell off this world.
We have to get inside this bunker before Saren finds the Conduit!
There's no way we're getting past that door with brute force.
Saren found a way to open it. There must be some kind of security override somewhere in this complex.
We'll have to find some way to get it up and running again.
Looks like we've got power. Now we just have to find the security override.
Looks like shutting down the security system wasn't enough. We'll have to restore the power if we want this door to open.
Who votes we take the vehicle into the creepy, underground bunker?
Good idea. The firepower will come in handy.
Those armatures out there look like they're up and running again.
When we disengaged the lockdown, the automated defense system must have kicked in and reactivated them.
This might work to our advantage. If the Prothean defense programs are controlling them, the armatures might actually see the geth as invaders.
Come on. Saren's already got a headstart. We have to go find him before he reaches the Conduit.
Unless he's already found it. Then we're just walking into a trap.
That's a chance we'll have to take.
This place still has power. It must be running off its own generator.
I bet this is the command center for the entire complex. Saren's troops must have sealed the doors from here after he went inside.
We'll have to figure out how to disengage the security lockdown if we ever want to get inside that bunker.
What is this? Some kind of defense bunker?
Probably. The Protheans could have used this elevator to deploy reinforcements to protect the rest of the complex.
What do you think the geth are doing with those armatures?
Looks like they hooked them into the Prothean maintenance bays to make repairs. The security lockdown must have deactivated them.
I just hope they don't suddenly become active again.
That thing wasn't flashing before. What's going on?
It must have activated when we disengaged the security lockdown. Looks like some kind of operations pod.
The Protheans probably used it to control the automated defenses.
It's a massacre out there! The armatures are wiping out the geth!
They're being controlled by the station's automated defense programs. They're attacking anything that isn't Prothean. If we go out there they'll attack us too.
Hold on... something's happening.
Sounds like some kind of message. But I don't recognize the language.
It's probably in Prothean. This recording must be 50,000 years old. No wonder we can't understand it.
Incredible! The Cipher must have transferred an understanding of the Prothean language into your mind.
What's it saying? Can you make out anything useful?
Hey! Try to remember why we're here. Saren, the Conduit, the fate of the entire known galaxy?
I thought Saren would have set some kind of trap or ambush for us. They must have been in too much of a hurry.
Or we just haven't run into it yet.
What are all those things on the wall? Some kind of containers?
All of them? There must be hundreds of those pods.
What was Saren expecting to find here? There's nothing left but corpses.
It's a trap! Saren must have set an ambush!
Looks like some kind of VI program. Pretty badly damaged.
Wait a minute. How come I can understand you? Why aren't you speaking the Prothean language?
The Conduit's not a weapon. It's a back door onto the Citadel!
There were hundreds of stasis pods out there! You just shut them down? You killed them?
I bet they didn't tell the "non-essential" staff about this contingency.
Wait. Where's the Citadel's master control unit? I've never heard of anything like that.
Nothing's happening. Downloading that data file must have burned the system out.
Hang on. Things are going to get a little rough!
There! The Conduit! It's incredible!
We don't have time to admire the view. We have to get through that relay... and these geth aren't going to make it easy on us.
Joker's waiting for you on the bridge, Commander.
After what happened to Jenkins, the crew could use some good news. They'll be glad to hear you're okay.
I never want to see anything bad happen to a fellow marine, Commander. Let's just leave it at that.
I'm not one to hold a grudge. I think we're all looking to put Eden Prime behind us.
Sir, you questioned my competence through the entire mission.
That's fair. Guess I overreacted. I just get a little defensive when someone thinks I can't hold my own.
You didn't. Captain Anderson did. Sir.
Captain Anderson had me transferred to his command. Must have figured I knew what I was doing.
Captain Anderson had me transferred to his command. I'm just sorry Jenkins had to die for me to get this chance.
I'm glad you're okay, Commander. The crew could use some good news after what happened to Jenkins.
Part of me feels guilty over what happened. If Jenkins was still alive, I might not be here.
Thanks, Commander. That means a lot from you. I've never met anyone who was awarded the Star of Terra.
Held off an entire enemy platoon? Alone? With all due respect, Commander, I think you've got somebody watching over you.
Thanks, Commander. I appreciate that.
That's grim, Commander. I guess I shouldn't be surprised, though. Not after Torfan. That must have been hell.
With all due respect, I'm glad you're on our side.
I won't let the Alliance down, sir.
Do you really believe that, Commander? After what happened to you on Akuze? Are you saying you only survived because of random chance?
With respect, sir, I think you had somebody watching over you.
I don't think it's as simple as that, sir.
I've seen friends die before. Comes with being a marine. But to see my whole unit wiped out...
And you never get used to seeing dead civilians. But things would have been a lot worse if you hadn't shown up.
Thanks, Commander. I have to admit, I was a little worried about being assigned to the Normandy. It's nice when someone makes you feel welcome.
Understood, ma'am.
Understood, sir.
You saved a lot of lives, Commander. It might be hard to keep that in perspective with what happened to Jenkins.
Thanks, Commander.
Goodbye, Commander.
Hey, Commander.
Look at the size of that ship!
Why so touchy, Joker?
Look at that monster! It's main gun could rip through the barriers on any ship in the Alliance fleet.
Get down!
It's my fault. I must have triggered some kind of security field when I approached it. You had to push me out of the way.
The beacon exploded. A system overload, maybe. The blast knocked you cold. The Lieutenant and I carried you back here to the ship.
Aye, aye, Captain. I'll be in the mess if you need me.
Doctor? Doctor Chakwas? I think he's waking up.
Come on. Get to the point. What'd you see?
What did Saren want with you? Do you know something about the Conduit?
Damn! I hope I look that good when I'm your age.
Not to mention your little run-in with Sovereign. I'd call that definitive proof.
Some asari mumbo-jumbo. Supposed to help the commander think like a Prothean. Don't know if it worked, though.
This isn't helping us find Saren. Or the Conduit.
Dear God. I think I actually feel sorry for her.
Or yours. No one likes to feel like they're not good enough to get what they want.
I'm betting you never had your heart broken at fifteen. Rejection hurts, Shepard. Even if you act strong.
Let's not talk about this here. It's not really the right setting for intimate conversation. You know where to find me.
Oh, "awkward", huh?
Because it's been so pleasant between us lately. Look. Somebody in this room needs to make a choice. It ain't me, and it ain't you.
Jealous? Of you? You're not even our species!
Doctor, you keep smart-assing me, I'll show you what my hostile reaction is like.
This is stupid.
Sorry, Commander. That fantasy's not going to happen.
We're not married, Shepard. You want to get involved with some alien, go ahead. It's none of my business.
Yeah? Kind of hard to feel special while you're always "chatting" with your little blue friend on the side. Or is that my role?
I've heard enough. We're resolving this now, Shepard. Me or her?
Hey. We're all grown-ups here. Right?
I hope you two will be happy together.
In your dreams, Commander.
I hope you two--or however many you end up with--will be happy together.
If you don't mind, I need to clean my gear.
Commander - we need to talk. You, me and the asari.
I'm betting you never had your heart broke at fifteen. Rejection hurts, Shepard. Even if you act strong.
Hope you two will be happy together.
Sounds important. You'd better go.
Come on. Get to the point. What did you see?
It's that damn Cipher! That asari messed you up good! And for what? We still don't know where to find that stupid Conduit! What a waste!
We'll never make it in time on foot. Get us something closer!
Twenty meters? No way we can make a drop in there.
Find another landing zone!
It's not an option! It's a suicide run! We don't--
What's our next move, Commander? Head for the Mu Relay?
Yeah, right. Her mother was working for Saren. I bet she is, too.
Who put you in charge? Did the commander resign when I wasn't looking?
Sorry, Commander.
I... I can't believe Kaidan didn't make it. How could we just leave him down there?
It should have been me, Commander. You know that.
I know. And I'm grateful. But Kaidan died because of me. Because of us.
I-- I'm sorry, Commander. You saved my life. I'm grateful for that. But it should have be me. Alenko was a superior officer. I would have gladly stayed behind.
That's not fair.
Aye, aye, Commander.
Aye, aye, Shepard.
Yes, ma'am. I'm-- We'll get it done.
Yes, sir. I'm-- We'll get it done.
What about that beacon? The one in the base? Did it give you another vision? Did it show you where the Conduit is?
Thanks, Commander. Things got pretty hot down there. You saved my life.
If they don't court-martial you. You endangered the entire mission. Why didn't you just leave one of us behind?
Kaidan's right. Nobody else could make a stunt like that work. Put anyone else in charge and someone gets left behind. Or the mission fails.
I-- I'm sorry, Commander. You saved my life. I'm grateful for that. But it should have been me. Alenko was a superior officer. I would have gladly stayed behind.
We thought this world was safe... until the geth showed up.
It used to be beautiful here.
Somebody's going to pay for this.
Let's get the bastards.
We should move.
Killing us isn't enough. The geth want us to suffer.
Impaling victims instead of just shooting them... there must be some reason behind it.
It must take a few hours for the spikes to turn people into husks.
It must take a few hours for the spikes to turn people into husks.
You're Dr. Warren, the one in charge of the excavation. Do you know what happened to the beacon?
Killing us isn't enough. The geth want us to suffer.
Impaling victims instead of just shooting them... there must be some reason behind it.
The beacon's at the far end of this trench.
Then I guess we better take it back!
This is the dig site. The beacon was right here. It must have been moved.
Hard to say. Maybe we'll know more after we check out the research camp.
If they were lucky. Maybe hiding up in the camp.
It's just on the top of this ridge. Up the ramps.
Looks like they hit the camp hard.
That door. It's closed. Security lock's engaged.
Who's your contact at the spaceport, Cole? What's his name?
No honor among thieves.
What did the geth do to them?
It's a ship. Look at the size of it!
A turian? You know him?
Something's moving! Over behind those crates!
You greedy son of a bitch! We're out here trying to protect your sorry ass and all you can think about is how you can rip us off?!
You're lucky the commander's here, Powell. Hand over those grenades.
You survived because you're lazy?
My God. It's like someone dropped a bomb.
I've never seen a ship big enough to leave a landing imprint like that. Not in our fleet.
Hurry - we need to find them all and shut them down!
Looks like nobody's home.
According to these data logs, the survey team unearthed some kind of alien technology.
Could be answers at the excavation site.
I've heard of this. Machine cultists. They unearth some kind of alien technology, and it turns them into mindless fanatics.
Whatever they found, it's long gone now.
Over there! That monkey-looking thing has it!
Guess we're doing this the hard way.
No weapons! We could damage the data module!
Over there! Don't let the geth catch him!
He dropped the data module!
It's a miracle the data module's still intact. Joker can transmit this info to Alliance Command.
Personally, I would've just thrown a rock at him.
Looks like that machine is keeping him alive.
No brain activity. He's dead. Body's nothing but an empty shell.
Aye, aye, Commander.
Your call, Commander. But maybe we should wait until we know more about what's going on before we do anything.
Understood, Commander. But he deserves better than this.
You did the right thing, Commander.
Oh, god. What happened here?
Guess nobody's home.
Most of the systems are shut down. It's just running on basic life support.
Somebody set that trap. The whole place could be wired.
Hear that? We're not alone.
Watch out!
We've seen this before. It's a long story, Lieutenant.
Commander, you see this? They just received a supply run two days ago. The rachni worked fast.
Hang on. Seems these things are drones, dispatched at irregular intervals from different depots. To reduce the likelihood of tracking.
Got it. It came from Argos Rho.
Aye, aye, Commander.
Whoever programmed that freighter didn't take any pains to scrub or alter their data.
Another batch of experimental rachni get loose. These things need warning labels.
Cerberus. Damn. We should have known.
Cerberus? Is that a corporation?
You wanted your sister dead?
Obviously.
Thank god you're not my sister.
We've got to get in there before they execute the chairman!
That's all of them. Let's give this rock a kick in the ass.
We've got control of thruster alpha.
We've got control of thruster beta.
We've got control of thruster gamma.
Noise coming from that door, Commander. Could be one of the engineering staff.
We've got fourty-five minutes to do this, Commander.
Half hour to the red line, skipper.
Half hour to the red line, Commander.
We've got fifteen minutes to get control of this rock, skipper.
We've got fifteen minutes to get control of this rock, Commander.
Ten minutes, skipper. We better get this done.
Ten minutes, Commander. We better get this done.
Five minutes, skipper. Time to be a hero.
Five minutes, Commander. Time to be a hero.
Two minutes to the red line, skipper.
Two minutes to the red line, Commander.
One minute, skipper! We've gotta go!
One minute, Commander! We've gotta go!
I'm surprised. I figured one of these outposts would be the main base of operations for this incursion.
Hold on. This receiver's picking up some kind of transmission. Based on the signal strength, I'd say it's coming from inside this star cluster.
It's gotta be the main base. We can use the signal to lock onto its location and go take it out!
One down, three to go.
We're halfway to driving these synthetic bastards out of this system.
One more outpost left. The sooner we get rid of it, the sooner this cluster's secure.
The logs show this ship was exploring near the Perseus Veil. Looks like they found some kind of alien artifact.
They brought it on board and then... this is really weird, Commander. They plotted a course straight into the Perseus Veil. Like they wanted the geth to find them.
The entries don't make a lot of sense after that. It's like the captain's mind was falling apart. It doesn't say anything about how they got back into our territory.
Husks. The ship's probably crawling with them.
Not much chance we'll find any survivors.
The geth turned them into husks and left the ship where someone would find it. Trying to show us what happens to organics dumb enough to enter the Veil.
Where is everybody?
I've got a bad feeling about this...
Oh, God. The entire colony must have been... transformed.
These logs place the blame for this on a group called Cerberus, whoever they are.
Cerberus. Should've known they were behind this.
The signal's coming from that downed ship.
Careful, Commander. I've got a bad feeling about this.
Geth! It's a trap!
I don't see any way in. We should just leave them alone.
I bet we can hack the door open.
Joker can have the Fifth Fleet pick Major Kyle up. I just hope you know what you're doing, Commander.
Commander Shepard was there! She knows the truth.
What the hell!
Now what?
Mineshaft. That's the source of the signal.
Smells like ambush, skipper.
Smells like ambush, Commander.
Yeah. This thing didn't crash. Somebody moved it here.
Aye, aye.
Alliance soldiers. Looks like they were lured here by the distress beacon.
These are Admiral Kahoku's men. We need to tell him what happened here.
Looks like Cerberus has other bases on this world, Commander.
I wonder what monstrosities Cerberus has been cooking up at the next base.
Oh, God. It's Admiral Kahoku.
Cerberus must have tracked him down.
One last stop to make, Commander. We owe Kahoku that much.
How are you holding up, Lieutenant?
Maybe you've just got a good stress release. I know that knocking the geth on their synthetic asses gets rid of my headaches.
Am I imagining things, LT, or are your abilities growing in strength?
No, sir. When some distant civilization finds our artifacts, we'll be right there to explain what they are.
I'm not sure, Lieutenant. Every time I think I have a handle on things, the universe banks hard to port.
Trying to take down a rogue Spectre and his army of synthetics? No, they didn't cover this in Basic.
Unless that speed lets them outrun bullets, I'm more inclined to stick with nice solid armor and a big gun.
It's becoming more common, but it took a long time to prove that "ladies" could handle an assault rifle or a shotgun.
Sounds nice, but I don't think I could get used to the uniform.
Sorry to disappoint, Wrex. I'm not the stay-at-home kind.
It's strange. The geth are attacking, and everyone around here is still worried about ordinary business.
The threat? Did they not see the vids of Eden Prime? See, this is why I hate politics.
So, Garrus, any regrets about leaving C-Sec?
True enough. I'd rather be fighting than trust it to somebody else.
Saren was one of the most respected turians in the galaxy, Garrus. Are you going to be okay going up against him?
Just keep saying that, especially to humans. We've got a lot of angry people right now.
The Normandy isn't built for a stand-up fight. I'd rather rely on the IES than the shields.
I don't know, Garrus. I'd rather not be the first one up the ladder when it comes to new tactics.
I'm surprised you're willing to fight krogan, Wrex. I thought you'd stand with your own.
I haven't spent much time with any krogan before you, Wrex. I have to say, you're not what I expected.
Look, I didn't mean--- Just forget I said anything.
What? Commander Shepard is my superior officer. I can't imagine us ever having to fight.
So, Liara, you've spent fifty years studying Prothean ruins and artifacts?
I think you've spoken for scientists everywhere, Liara.
So, Doctor T'Soni, are all asari biotics? I heard Lieutenant Alenko say something about you not needing implants.
To have so many potential biotics that people can choose not to train... I imagine the lieutenant would be jealous.
It must be nice to be back in civilization after so long in those Prothean ruins.
I don't think I could handle that. Eden Prime was as quiet and rustic as I'd ever want.
I've heard some humans are angry at the quarians after the attack on Eden Prime. After all, you created the geth.
Hopefully having you with us fighting Saren will change people's minds.
Hey Tali, I heard a rumor that under those environmental suits, you quarians are partially synthetic.
It still makes you look a little like a geth, though. I'm just saying.
Are you okay, Tali? It looked like you got some dirty looks back there.
That is sort of what I'd heard about your people. I guess you're not in any one place long enough for people to get to know you.
How you holding up, Lieutenant?
Hm. Maybe you've just got a good stress release. I know that knocking the geth on their synthetic asses gets rid of my headaches.
Am I imagining things, LT, or are your abilities getting stronger?
Uh, trying to take down a rogue Spectre and his army of synthetics? No, they didn't cover this in Basic.
I'm surprised you're willing to fight krogan, Wrex. I thought you would stand with your own.
Look, I didn't mean-- Just forget I said anything.
Wow. To have so many potential biotics that people can choose not to train... I imagine the lieutenant would be jealous.
You okay, Tali? It looked like you got some dirty looks back there.
That's sort of what I heard about your people. I guess you're not in any one place long enough for people to get to know you.
The Council isn't going to ask me any questions, are they?
No we don't, sir.
I can't believe the Council ignored all the evidence against Saren!
Oh, so now we just chase leads while this smug turian runs around with his geth troopers.
I hate politics.
I'm going to enjoy the look on the Council's face when they see evidence they can't just ignore.
I'm not putting faith in anybody being on our side. Not any more.
What the hell is down here? Is this just another trap, or did we finally run into some good luck?
We can get there in time. Their plan only fails if we do, and I've come too far to watch Saren win.
I can't believe it. So many dead, and it was all for nothing. The Protheans fell right into the Reapers' trap, just like we did.
I imagine I've been in as many trench fights as you have, Lieutenant... if not more.
Keep your head down out there. Fai Dan said we wouldn't have any cover.
The Council isn't gonna ask me any questions, are they?
I'm gonna enjoy the look on the Council's face when they see evidence they can't just ignore.
Uh-huh. Interesting. Why'd you wanna meet with the commander?
Look at that bug thing over there. What's it doing?
What's the catch?
I can't tell the aliens from the animals.
They've built themselves quite the lake. Wonder if anyone ever drowned in it?
This place is a little too perfect. Like they're hiding something.
Hard to believe the krogan were once seen as the saviors of the galaxy.
You're not like most other krogan, are you, Wrex?
Y'know... art doesn't normally do much for me, but that relay statue? I like.
The Shadow Broker?
Don't get coy. I know what I saw.
That guy's up to something.
The one over by the keeper.
Yeah, right. You expect us to believe none of your officers are corrupt?
What about her? The quarian?
And that's why I hate politicians.
Samesh? I don't know if this helps, but your wife.... Nirali loved you very much.
She missed your cooking, and she played recordings of you every night before she went to sleep.
Mr. Bhatia, I'm Ashley Williams. I served with your wife in the 212. I wanted to tell you how sorry I am.
I know those tests are important, Commander, but we could have found another way.
We could have found another way.
Yes she is, Mr. Bhatia. She died fighting for what she believed in.
She sacrificed her life to keep you safe. I think she'd want to make the most of that sacrifice.
Wait. The 212? Your wife was Serviceman Nirali Bhatia? I'm Gunnery Chief Ashley Williams. I served in her unit.
I'm so sorry for your loss, Mr. Bhatia. Nirali was a good woman. What can we do for you?
Mr. Bhatia, rest assured that we will avenge your wife's death. We're dealing with the people who attacked Eden Prime.
It's a noble goal. Too bad so many of your supporters are just racists.
Of course, Commander.
We should. But you're looking for a reason.
Were you at Shanxi? If not, shut your piehole.
Right. I read you, skipper.
Aye, aye, Commander.
No ma'am. Sorry ma'am.
No sir. Sorry, sir.
Wearing a ribbon on your lapel makes you a hero, huh? You want to help humanity? Get out of your office and pitch in.
This is it. Let's see if we can find out where those stolen credits are being funneled.
What the hell is that?
What are you, crazy? It's an AI, like the geth! It would kill us all if it could!
Not true. Look at this.
C-Sec seems more like a military operation than a police force.
Wow. This is quite the view, Commander.
So peaceful up here. Very romantic... if you're into that sort of thing.
We were there to help her.
Just buy the weapons? That's it?
What about the keeper data?
You should've thought of that before you stole the data.
Chorban? That's the guy who asked us to scan the keepers.
Fist knows you're coming. We'll have a better chance if we all work together.
What about Garrus? That turian? He wants to take Saren down, too.
Ten-hut!
I don't like where this is going.
Those were Saren's men.
I guess we're on the right track.
You can keep the Presidium. This is where the action is!
A lot of traffic here. How fast do you think those cars are going?
You think it's expensive to live here?
Aw, man! My sisters would love this place. Maybe when this is all over, I'll bring them here for a girls' night out.
If we weren't on duty, I'd have to show you some of my dance moves... sir.
Hey, Lieutenant, put your tongue back in your mouth before you trip on it.
Smell that? Fresh blood mixed with stale booze.
A million light years from where humanity began and we walk into a bar filled with men drooling over half-naked women shaking their asses on a stage. I can't decide if that's funny or sad.
There's been a change of plans.
So why is this data so valuable?
Quit stalling. Jahleed told us what you've been up to.
What about Jahleed?
He mentioned someone called Banes. Does that ring a bell?
I wonder if the captain knows him?
He's lying.
Drop the gun, krogan!
That quarian's dead if we don't go now!
Not real chatty, is he?
Warehouse workers. All the real guards must be dead.
I can't believe that worked!
Shooting people isn't always the answer.
Looks like you have a fan.
Just like Wrex told us, Commander.
Yeah, we saw him in the bar.
Yeah, we heard about him.
That looks about right.
Hm. Nobody died.
Nah. I'm good.
Charming girl.
Why didn't Captain Anderson tell us he used to be a Spectre?
You're probably right. Still, I'd like to hear what the captain has to say about all this.
The ambassador's office. It's safe there. He'll want to see this anyway.
Calm down, Private, this isn't an inspection.
Ha! You never went to see her, did you, Private?
Thanks, kid. Have fun. Try not to get into too much trouble.
You don't sound that happy about it.
That your professional opinion, sir?
Maybe you should put your talents to better use.
It sure as hell couldn't hurt.
Why's that?
I don't feel right just leaving like this.
That's because you don't understand women, Kaidan.
What the hell was all that about?
Someone rigged this machine to funnel credits their way. I'll run a trace.
Looks like they bounced their signal off a relay. I'll trace the new signal.
Another relay! Whoever it is, they're somewhere on the Presidium.
Looks like it's shut down.
Fist knows we're coming.
Who knows? Let's just try not to get caught in the middle.
What are those? Cherry trees?
I bet all these staircases aren't just for show. They make for good defensive positions if this place is ever attacked.
So this is where the Council passes judgment on all us little folk, huh? Ever get the feeling we're in over our heads, Commander?
Maybe if they'd listened, we wouldn't be here now.
He's not going to let you waltz into his office and use his computer.
Udina won't let this slide, Captain. You'll be charged with treason, a capital offense.
That's right! He was asking for more time to finish his report. Seems like he was close to finding something on Saren.
Not even a thank you from the ambassador.
Right behind you, Commander.
You bastard! You're selling us out!
Ready.
Say the word.
Charged and locked.
I'm on it.
Nice place to visit, but I wouldn't want to live here. Scratch that; it's not a nice place to visit.
Gotta give these colonists credit; they don't give up easy.
She looks whole, but something's clearly causing her pain.
Let's leave him. There's nothing we can do for him.
The pressure is getting to her. Can't say I blame her.
The geth have set up a transmitter of some sort.
Commander! We've got to destroy that transmitter!
I don't think it's a good idea to head out here on foot.
This valve looks like part of a large system. There are likely others we need to activate as well.
There's another one. Doesn't look like it's been activated yet, though. We should keep looking.
I think we're in business. The water system is back online, Commander.
Commander, I think the tower is back behind us.
Commander, I'll follow wherever you lead, but I think we want to turn around. The tower is behind us.
Nice view of where we need to go.
Holy... it reeks down here.
I bet these things ignored the geth. Can't eat metal.
So, are we ready to roll out to wherever the geth are bunkered? Check in with Fai Dan, but I think we are done here.
All right, heading for the geth base. Let's take it to them.
I suppose we should tell Fai Dan about the others.
Whatever you say, Commander. Let's do it.
I hear that, but what about those nerve grenades we jury-rigged with Baynham?
All right. It's too bad there's no other way. They can't help themselves.
What the hell was that? I don't know what that plant does to people, but that's not human.
They are all over the Borealis. Let's move one of the cargo blocks and see what crawls out.
There's the controls for the crane, Commander. Can you make sense of them?
Yeah, they're bunkered around the Borealis up there. We've got to move one of its cargo blocks once we're topside.
If it's slimy and moving, shoot it.
Smells like compost. Rotten compost.
Are you all right, Shepard? What did she do?
You look a little queasy. We should get you back to the ship.
That can't be good, whatever it is.
Okay, we just have to find this thing and put a couple rounds into....
Okay, that's the cutting for the assayer. Now we just have to... we just have to....
What the hell is that?
I've had it with these plant-people, Commander. Find me a weak spot on this thing.
Commander! Some sort of growth in here. Check it out.
That got its attention. Has to be more of those around.
We've got it on the ropes now, Commander. It has to drop soon!
Looks like it learned a few biotic tricks from that commando it copied.
Too much cover here.
Watch your step.
I bet this place was pretty impressive back in the day.
Deadly for him, fine for us. What could be better?
They're not dead. But the geth have really pounded them.
Dodgy, but it might just work.
Got some kind of comm signal. It's too weak to pinpoint, but someone is definitely out here.
More chatter, Commander. Still no fix.
Shouldn't we be more concerned about the geth?
Sounds like they've spotted us. They must be close.
Sounds like that got their attention.
I think this situation falls under the "shoot on sight" category.
Hey, if they're looking for God, I'd be happy to speed them on their way.
The geth have anchored their ship to the building with these claws.
Maybe we can swat it off. One of these claws has to have a weak spot.
Subtle as a boot to the face. How do we cut the power if it's coming from the ship?
Just like the other one. We don't have the teeth to tear this out. Keep looking.
Whatever. We just need to find a way to break even one claw and that ship is out of here.
What is this, Commander? A containment lab?
That's the way. Doors will be open now. We can go deal with that Thorian thing.
Weak as hell across the whole system. Can we isolate it on a single door?
Damn. I'd like to have seen the face on their pilot when that thing toppled.
Doesn't matter. We're their eviction notice.
The geth don't need much of an invitation to move in, do they?
Ain't getting though this with the gear we have. Has to be another way in.
One-way drop, Commander.
If they're looking for God, I can speed them on their way.
You've got to be kidding me. Are they praying?
Lizbeth must have run when the power dropped. Finding an exit sounds good.
So that's why they were acting weird.
We should warn Joker.
We need to drop that field and get back to Zhu's Hope.