You find Ikora reviewing a holographic map of the Last City's defenses, featuring highlighted icons at the sites of your recent victories. She minimizes the map and addresses you.

"Thank you for working with Shaxx to break the Witness's siege. Every inch of ground we gain now will be invaluable to our civilians once we're through the portal."

"Make no mistake: these attacks may look like unchecked aggression, but the Witness's forces have a strategic goal. They're hoping a pressure campaign will keep our Lightbearers pinned in the Last City, and out of the portal."

Ikora's eyes narrow, and for a moment her impatience shines through. "They're playing for time. Time we can't afford to lose."

"Keep working to stabilize our defenses. The more you accomplish before Mara and Osiris reopen the portal, the more of our forces will be available for a counterattack."

Her tone grows flinty with determination. "And then we'll finally show the Witness the power of humanity's resolve."