ABOARD THE NORMANDY SR-2, YEAR 2185 CE
The ship hummed softly as he walked throughout the hallway, his footsteps silent from years of training and discipline. He found it odd that something built for destruction could be a place that offered him amenity, an oasis amidst the years he’d spent lost in a desert of his own making.
His footsteps took him to the elevator and in a few short minutes, the doors opened to Deck 2. Following the curve of the ship towards the bridge, Thane revelled in the silence as the orange lights from the CIC lit his path in a warm, soft glow. Most of the crew lay slumbering in their cots, grasping at a brief moment to take their minds away from the weight of the mission that haunted them.
Reaching the pilot’s chair, obsidian hues stared solemnly at the empty seat. Even Joker needed rest, as much as he might resent leaving the Normandy in the hands of the ship’s artificial intelligence.
“Greetings, Mr. Krios,” EDI called out, a lavender hologram popping up in his peripherals. The assassin crossed his arms behind his back, straightening his posture.
“According to medical research, it is advised that one’s sleeping habits remain consistent,” EDI continued, “I would suggest getting some rest.”
The Drell chuckled softly, lifting a hand to cover a short cough. “Thank you for your advice, EDI, but I am fine. Between you, Mordin, and Doctor Chakwas I have been well cared for,” Thane stated, appreciation in his tone. Had it not been for the brilliant minds of the Salarian and his human counterpart, he would never have hoped for a cure of Kepral’s syndrome to be accessible in his lifetime. All he had to do was take weekly injections and the weight of his mortality lifted from his shoulders.
The sound of footsteps behind him made the assassin turn his head towards the source, his protruding brow lifting in a curious manner.
“Commander,” Thane greeted, the corners of his lips tilting into a faint smile. “I had not expected company at this hour.” He gestured for her to stand beside him and admire the stars that glittered above the bridge.
“Of course, your presence is always welcome. I...enjoy our talks.”