CH: 11 Encounter at the Citadel
September 10th 11:59, A.R.V. Destiny Ascension
"When are our new guests due to arrive?" Matriarch Lidanya spoke.
"According to the Terrans, they should be arriving any minute now." Replied a young Asari, perhaps no more than a century.
Lidanya hummed to herself, soon enough the galaxy would receive a formal introduction of the Terran species, plural. Barely a day had passed since their sudden entry into the war against the 427s, Dragon Orphans as the Terrans called them, and already there was widespread speculation about the new races. Thousands of extranet forms had been created and within minutes were filled discussions over what information they had on them. News programs, celebrities, and government officials alike released statements and their thoughts on the new arrivals. Rumors and theories had cropped up. And were quickly accepted as fact or refuted as delusion. The whole galaxy was clamoring for any details they could get on the Terrans. But in this confusion and chaos, there was a renewed sense of hope growing among the populace.
In a matter of hours, the Terrans had single-handedly broken the offensive projected by the 427s. For the first time in two years, the forces of the Citadel had room to breathe, and they were making damn good use of it. In addition, when the Terrans broadcasted their message of goodwill towards the Citadel races, they transmitted two data packages. Only one was sent to civilian networks, a codex containing basic information on the Terran Federation, an overview of their history, culture, and other miscellaneous facts that they thought important enough to be mentioned about their people. It wasn't a complete codex on who they are, serving more like a compact and neat packet that gave one a general overview of the species. The specifics would come later. Not that it mattered as the general population ate it up as they clamored to learn more about the Terrans.
The second data package was sent to military channels, and after a thorough examination of it for any malicious programs, its contents were opened. What was inside was a treasure trove of information on the 427s. History, tactics, types of units employed both in space and on the ground, you name it. The Terrans had even included numerous personal accounts and records of battles against the monsters, ranging from the smallest skirmish in a building to the largest battles that spanned a star system. They had just gained several centuries worth of information in a span of a few hours. The information was quickly sent to the high commands of every military force in the Citadel to examine thoroughly by the best analyst they had to offer. High ranking officials like herself had received the contents as well so they could look over the information for themselves. She spent the better part of a night and her head was still spinning from how much there was to read, and she didn't even get to finish reading it.
"Tell me young one. What do you think of this new species?" She asked the young officer curious about her thoughts.
She saw the maiden look up at her with surprise, almost gaining a chuckle from the Matriarch. "I think their uhh.." She nervously began. "I think their interesting Matriarch. Especially with how much they look like.." The maiden trailed off.
"Like us." The Matriarch finished for her, receiving a nod. It had been a shock to her as well, seeing a species that look so much like her own. For a moment she thought they were long lost cousins to the Asari, likely separated by the Protheans for reasons only they could comprehend. Yet that was not the most shocking aspect about them.
"Then there is the fact that their two species, humans and ghouls." The young maiden said, unknowingly voicing the older Asari's thoughts. At the mention of the ghouls, there was a noticeable tension in the air.
The Matriarch could not fault her crew for their reaction. Everyone knew about the fleshing eating monsters that were created by the 427s. Demons as many had come to call them, were feared throughout Citadel space. Able to appear as any normal citizen they could hide in plain sight with no one the wiser until they caught their unlucky prey the last they would see being blacken eyes and strange red appendages. So great a danger they posed to the public that special task groups had been formed to contain them by whatever means were necessary. An effort that found little success.
Imagine her surprise when she learned that the Terrans allowed such monsters to freely roam the streets of every city on all of their planets. That they considered them to be people with all the same rights as any other, that they had found a way to co-exist with them.
Most surprisingly the ghouls were not a result of humans being exposed to a gaseous cloud that some of the 427s could explode to create them, as she first thought. Rather they were a result of natural evolution. It was fascinating to think that somewhere in this vast galaxy there is a world that gave birth to two intelligent races. The concept of more than one intelligent species evolving on the same world had been theorized before but thus far no one had had the chance to observe such a phenomenon. Until now, no doubt every xeno-biologist from here to the terminus was drooling at the prospect of studying both races of the Terrans.
Their history together though was equal parts tragic and horrifying. The peace that the two species had achieved was only a recent development when compared to the rest of their history. Records of bloody conflicts and horrifically acts committed across thousands of years, with the period that the Terrans called the twenty and twenty-first centuries being the most bloody and horrific. Wither it was due to the tensions between the races being at their highest or the emergence of new technology that enabled more accurate recording of events was not specified, she feared it may have been a bit of both. Reading of the actions that both sides took against each had horrified her. She wondered how could beings intelligent enough to reach the stars do such horrible things against each other all in the name of survival (then she remembers what the races of citadel did to survive the Rachnii and the Krogan). The image of a CCG investigator standing over the lifeless body of a young ghoul child had brought her to tears, she pictured an Asari child in the same position and suddenly found herself questioning the very existence of their own counter ghoul task groups.
One how had to wonder how their shared history did not end with the extinction of one or both of them. It could have easily turned out that way if good people on both sides had not stepped forward and cried out "Enough". It was amazing to her to learn that in the early twenty-first century a time when the two races were by all intents and purposes on the verge of war, was also when the foundation for a lasting peace was laid. That foundation built upon the blood, sweat, and tears of countless individuals who wished for a better future for both races was built upon by others who wished the same, and hardships that both humans and ghouls would endure. Both sides would set aside their differences and move forward to a brighter future where the atrocities of the past would become a distant memory.
"They are indeed an interesting species." The Matriarch said, finding no other words to describe them. "They have much to offer the galaxy." She added at the end.
She saw the young maiden open her mouth to say something, whatever it was it would have to wait as something on her station caught her attention. "Matriarch, the relay is activating."
"Bring up an image," Lidanya said. A projection showing the nebula's relay appeared its twin rings spinning rapidly, a clear sign that ships were coming through. Seconds passed before a stream of lights raced past the ancient space-borne object, those lights then formed into the shapes of ships of a design she learned about a day ago. The Terrans had arrived at the Citadel. It didn't take long for all of their ships to arrive and Lidanya found herself gazing at hundreds of ships flying in a neat and tight formation. The ships themselves were oddly beautiful to look at having graceful lines that could be found in Asari design, while at the same time looking predatorial like the Turians did with their ships. They reminded her of some of the stalking animals that roamed the plains on Thessia, beast whose beauty was greatly admired but were also some of the most dangerous predators on the Asari home-world. She saw the ships fly towards the Citadel, one look at the way they flew their ships, she knew they are militaristic people like the Turians. A worrying facet, but not something that her people could overcome.
"About a hundred ships have appeared sir, including a dreadnought." Said the officer. "It measures at around one point two kilometers and is emitting a massive eezo reading. Goddess, it has two spinal cannons!"
The Matriarch eyes widen in surprise for about a second before she suppressed it. Two spinal cannons on one ship that was going a headache. She didn't even want to imagine the type of firepower that beast of ship could unleash. Good thing they were pointing them at the 427s, and not the Citadel. Still, it may present a problem when it came to the Treaty of Farixen. "Open a channel to them." She said. The projection of the Terran fleet disappeared and a Terran admiral appeared. For a brief moment, she saw a flash of surprise form on the Terran's face before disappearing. He was likely thinking the same thing as she was. Seeing a species that look so much their own would do that. Even now she still couldn't get over how the man resembled her kind. Remove the fur (they called it hair) on his head and paint his skin blue and you had the fabled male Asari. She had to admit he was a very attractive looking man and was tempted to make a pass at him. Maybe later when things had settled down, business first though. "This Matriarch Lidanya of the Destiney Ascension and commanding officer of the Citadel fleet. To whom am I speaking?" She said to the Terran Admiral.
"This is Vice Admiral Tyler Grayson of the 3rd Reaction Fleet, representing the United Terran Federation." The Terran spoke in a deep voice. "We are here to drop off a diplomatic party so they may begin to facility relations between the Federation and the Citadel. We request clearance as soon as possible."
"How big is this Diplomatic party?" The Matriarch asked.
"Fourteen individuals. Four people for the negotiations, plus four aids and six guards." He responded.
The Matriarch nodded to herself that sounded to be a good-sized group. Not too small to seem week and not too big to appear threatening. "Very well, clearance granted. Your fleet may proceed to within three thousand kilometers of the station, whereupon you will hold position. A shuttle carrying your diplomatic part will be allowed to land on the station. If you like your shuttle will be allowed a fighter escort no bigger than one of your squadrons to follow them. Failure to follow any of the mentioned protocols will be interpreted as an act of aggression and we will respond appropriately. Understood." She carefully recited to the man being careful not to sound too threatening.
The man nodded at her seeming not offended by her words. "I understand clearly and accept your terms. Our diplomatic party will be departing in ten of your minutes. Be ready to receive them."
"Understood Admiral, We will transmit a flight path monetarily," Lidanya informed the man.
"Matriarch I should also inform you that one of our representatives is a Synth. If this proves to be an inconvenience we can have another representative replace him."
Lidanya monetarily paused, thinking over the Admiral's request. She knew this would be a point of contention between the Terrans and the Citadel races, the use of AI. On one hand, everything in her told her to berated the Terrans for their reckless act of creating AIs, a thing she had been told since she was a child that was dangerous to all Organic life. Yet the more reasonable and rational side of her knew that the Terrans had been using AIs for almost a century, to ask them to remove them would be like asking the Citadel races to stop using eezo in their technology. They had become too integrated into their society that it would be immensely difficult to remove them if it was even possible. In that same vein, the AIs had remained loyal to their creators since their creation without the need to shackle them, a feat thought to be impossible. She supposed that the AIs might have been bidding their time, but the more she thought about that possibility the less likely it seemed. It was as she said earlier the Terrans were proving to be an interesting addition to the Galactic community. "I will have to consulate with the council on that matter." She finally said. "You must understand we of the Citadel races have not had good experiences with AIs. Having one step foot on the Citadel may cause some interesting reactions from the general populace." She said carefully.
She saw the Terran Admiral nod at her his expression neutral. "I can understand that. Will your council being willing to allow a Synth on the station? You have our assurance that nothing bad will happen."
"I believe that an agreement can be reached." She said to placate the man. "But I cannot make any promises."
The man stared at her his expression still unreadable. The Matriarch had to stop herself from shifting uncomfortably as the man seemed to gaze into her soul. "Very well we shall await your response." The man said breaking the uncomfortable silence between the two. "Admiral Grayson out." The image of the Terran admiral disappeared and the projection of the Terran fleet approaching them reappeared.
Lidanya let out a breath she didn't know she was holding. That was surprisingly tense for her, the Terrans were proving to be an unpredictable bunch. What other surprises they had in store would remain to be seen. One thing was for certain nothing would be the same moving forward.
"Coms patch me to the Citadel Council."
September 10th 12:03, TFV. Anteiku:
"Well, that was an experience." Greyson heard Ambassador Goyle said. A sentiment that he agreed with, nothing like talking a species that looked like attractive blue-skinned female humans. He read the reports of what the Asari was like, yet he still found it hard to believe. Surely someone was playing a prank on him, what were the odds of such a species looking so much like humans evolving on another planet. It seemed more like something one would find in really old Sci-fi shows or very badly made ones. Then he had a face to face encounter with one, McKinley is going to have a field day when he learns about this. He was certain that Asari was having similar thoughts right about now.
"Didn't they say that their people are very open to interspecies relations?" A lieutenant said.
Greyson rolled his eyes hand it to the young to think with their hormones than their brains. Though he couldn't blame the young man, the Matriarch was most certainly an attractive woman that he couldn't deny. "Two things Lieutenant." He snorted out to the young man, his tone portraying a sense of good-natured humor. "One I prefer to keep it in the species." Call him old fashion all right. "Two, men are my thing." He heard a few chuckles at his announcement.
He even got a chuckle from the ambassador. "Well, that would explain why my famine charm as failed on you." She said with a smile.
A smirk formed his lips as another thought occurred to him. "Also I am almost certain that woman was around when the American Constitution was made."
"On second thought Sir, I think I'll keep it in the species.." He heard an officer reply.
"While this all as been entertaining I believe it's time we got to work." Said ambassador Goyle a smile still present on her expression.
"Very well Ambassador. We'll make sure that these Citadel aliens don't try to pull a fast one." The Admiral said.
"Good, then I'll be on my way. Be sure to inform us if Herald will be permitted on the station." The Ambassador said turning away and walking in the direction for a lift.
"Will do ambassador." He saw the woman enter the lift. Once the doors slid open he turned his attention to his job. "Helen, what is the status of our infiltration unit?"
A small blue orb appeared on the armrest of his chair. "The infiltration units have successfully breached the citadel's firewalls. As expected they drastically increased their defensive capabilities against cyber warfare attacks since our introduction to the galaxy. However, they did not prove to be sufficient enough the stop our AI infiltration units from breaching their networks."
"Any indication that the Citadel is aware of their presence?" The Admiral asked mildly worried that they could be caught.
"Negative sir, the infiltration was flawless as reported by the unit leader," Helen reported allowing the Admiral to relax a little. "Your orders?"
"For now they are to monitor the movements of Citadel forces. Keep an eye for any malicious intent directed at us. Beyond that remain undetected and search for any weaknesses that can be exploited in the event that things go south." The Admiral said it was unlikely that the Citadel would try anything, after all antagonizing a powerful potential ally was not the wisest move. But he had his orders to ensure the safety of the Diplomatic party as such he had to prepare for any situation that could threaten them even unlikely ones.
"Very well Vice Admiral. Relaying your orders now." The orb disappeared.
"Sir we just received a flight path from the Citadel." Said the coms officer. "Additional they will be allowing Ambassador Herald to set on the station. Provided that he is the only Synth in the diplomatic party and be closely monitored by their security forces."
The Admiral nodded at coms, surprised that the council would allow a Synth onto the station, the extra security measures were not though. "Inform the Ambassadors of the development, and transmit the flight path the shuttle's pilots. Have fighter squadron fourteen be ready to escort them."
"Aye, sir."
The Admiral looked to the projection of the Citadel. Truly the ancient space station was a marvel of engineering, one that for the time being was beyond their capability to replicate. But perhaps one day when the Federation had truly secured its place in the galaxy they could and maybe surpass it.
September 10th 12:04, Citadel Council private chambers
"Thank you Lidanya." Said Councilor Tevos. "You may go now."
"Good day Councilors." Said the Matriarch bowing to them, her image then disappeared.
"Are you certain it is a good idea to allow one of those things on the station?" Said the Salarian councilor his eye narrowed at Tevos. He was the newest member of the council having joined two months previously after his predecessor had retired.
"We already discussed this Councilor Toss. We will be allowing their Synth ambassador on the station. We must do what we can to appease these Terrans if our alliance is to continue. So as long he is the only one on the station then it should be fine." Tevos said calmly to the man.
"Still these Terrans are messing with things that they and no others have any business to tamper with. Do they not realize how dangerous it is to create AIs? Then there is the fact that they allow flesh-eating monsters to freely roam among them. They are reckless." The Salarian said inciting a long-suffering sigh from the Asari. In some ways, the Salarians were more closed-minded then even the Turians. One would think with such short life spans and faster-thinking process would make them more willing to accept new ideas. Tevos could understand his skepticism towards the Terrans, the thought that goddesses knows how many AIs were running free in the galaxy terrified her to the core. But she was willing to consider the immense benefits that the Terrans could bring to the rest of the Galaxy if what claimed was true. "Further is it not too soon to say that we are allies now? What proof do we have of their sincerity?"
"How about the fact that thousands of their ships and millions of their soldiers are now fighting directly on the front lines of this war." Councilor Filtius growled at the Salarian. "In a single day, their forces have halted the progress of the invasion force. Millions of Turian soldiers owe them their lives now. They have given us the breathing room we so desperately need right now. I will not allow you to alienate them to the point that they will withdraw." Well, at least she could count on Turian support on this matter.
"What I think councilor Toss was trying to say was that while the Terrans may make for good allies we should still be weary for an ulterior motive on their end," Tevos said to placate the two councilors. It would do them no good to show the Terrans a divided in their ranks, at the moment they needed to present a united front impressive enough for the Terrans to want to continue working with the Citadel. She saw the two other members of the Citadel council stare at her, they wanted to say more on the matter but the better parts of them won out and they nodded at her agreeing to drop the matter for the moment. "Good, we can discuss this later once we know more about the situation. For now, we must determine what we can do now about them. Any ideas."
"We should formalize our alliance with this United Terran Federation," Filtius said. "While our forces are more than happy to have their help in the war, there are already those who are not comfortable with working with a foreign nation to which we have no true relations with. Formalizing relations with them will alleviate those concerns."
Tevos nodded it would be a good idea to show to the rest of the galaxy where the Citadel stood with the Terrans. Looking at Toss she could tell that while he still had his reservations he agreed with the Turian Councilor. "Very well we will try to formalize relations with the Terran Federation."
"Councilor Tevos," Toss said grabbing her attention. "There is another matter of concern that may be worth discussing."
"What would that be?" She asked.
"How they know so much about us already." He said gain confused looks from the other Councilors.
"Explain." Filtius prodded.
"Have you not notice that in every encounter they were able to communicate with our forces effortlessly, as though they know other languages? Further, they know our space well enough to arrive at the areas that most needed their help in the war." Tevos eyes widen as she realized what he was implying. "This suggests to me they may have been monitoring the situation for some time now." He finished explaining.
"I hate to say this, but he's right. We could have a series breach of our security here." Filtius said. "Especially when you consider the size of the forces they deployed here. It would have taken them months to ready a force of that size for deployment into feign space.
"In that time they could have been spying on us," Toss said. "With all of our attention focused on the war, they could have sent dozens of stealth vessels into our space. They might have breached into our systems network gaining all the information they needed on us. They may even have those AIs embedded in the Citadel's data network."
Tevos did not like this if the Salarian councilor was right and in all likelihood he was. Then it meant that when it came to the negotiations the Terrans would be an advantage, having so much information on the Citadel while they only had an overview on the Terrans. "We'll have to investigate our networks and inform our respective governments of this possible breach of security." She said to the councilors. "Maybe even get a few trusted Specters to look into it. We'll also have to proceed carefully in the negotiations with Terrans, and operated on the assumption that they know everything about the races of the Citadel."
"I don't like the idea of us being at such a disadvantage here," Toss said. "With so much information they could do some serious damage if they turn hostile."
"Then let us be thankful that the Terrans have proven to be benevolent so far, and pray that these negotiations go well," Tevos said disturbed by the possibility that the Terrans may prove to be a dangerous foe in the future. Goddess why couldn't this be the other way around like the way they preferred it? First contact scenarios were dangerous enough as it is given all the unknowns that were involved. Usually, when the Citadel encountered a new species they didn't immediately make contact with them, instead, they would try monitoring the species while remaining undetected. Once they all the information they needed they would initiate contact with the new species at the time and place of their choosing. It had worked well with every race they had encountered before and it was usually the deciding factor in preventing future conflicts. The only time they did not manage to execute this strategy was with the Turians and the Batarians. It did not bode well for her that the Citadel was now on the receiving end of this strategy. The Matriarchy council was already displeased that they knew so little about the Terrans when they found out this. She rubbed her temples already feeling a headache at that conversation.
"In the meantime what shall we do about the Possibility that the Citadel's data network may have been infiltrated by their AIs?" Toss asked.
Tevos thought about it for a moment going over the different courses of action to take and their consequences. There wasn't much that they could do, not in the immediate future anyway. Long-term wise, well they have to discuss that once they had more information on the Terrans. "For the moment we'll have our technicians began conducting security sweeps on the data networks." She told the Councilors. "But tell them to be discreet about it." She added. "We can't let the Terrans know that we are on to them."
"What if they manage to detect one or more of these hypothetical AI's infiltrating our networks?" Filtius queried.
Again Tevos thought about what they should do and the consequences that came after. "Tell them to just monitor the AIs. If they look like their getting into anything important have them redirected somewhere else, again tell them to be discreet about it. Beyond that do nothing but be ready to take action if the Terrans turn hostile." While they were at a disadvantage, there were still courses of action they could take to mitigate that. "Any objections to this course of action?" She stares at her colleagues seeing that they had nothing else to say she continued. "Good, I would also suggest that we advise our respective governments and the governments of the other races to take similar courses of action. In the coming months, we may also have to consider the possibility of improving the security of our data networks."
"What of these ghouls the Terrans have," Toss asked, referring to the creatures that the Citadel races called demons.
Tevos had to admit while she was scared of the beings that the Terrans could ghouls, she did feel a tinge of sympathy for them. The relationship between humans and ghouls was in a way similar to that of the Asari and the Ardat-Yakshi, though in the case of the Terrans their shared history was bloodier. Yet they had found a way to live in peace a reality that her people had never truly achieved with the Ardat-Yakshi, the closet they came to it was isolating them away from the rest of the galaxy. "Nothing for now. If what we know about our versions of ghouls holds true, the real danger is to themselves." For a moment she wondered if there was something they could learn from the Terrans in how the Asari could handle the Ardat-Yakshi.
"If what Terrans say is true, then even that danger is non-existent. Synthetic meat." Said the Turian councilor ponderously. "Perhaps one of the things we should try asking them for is the knowledge on how to make the stuff or at the very least have them aid us in making our versions of it. It could greatly help us in contending with our ghouls. It may even allow them to become productive citizens of the Citadel again."
Tevos nodded, with Turians being in the heaviest fighting against the 427s, Dragons Orphans, more of their kind had been infected by the strange toxin that some of them released on death. "We'll be sure to put it on our agenda." She said to him receiving a nod of thanks from the man.
There was a sudden chime that grabbed the attention of the Councilors. "Councilors the Terrans about to land their diplomatic party." Said a voice on the com. "Shall I patch a live feed to your chambers?"
"That would be most appreciated," Tevos answered. "For the moment I suggest that we shelve this conversation until we have met with the Terrans." She said to the councilors, both of which nodded at her. "Now let us see what these Terrans are like."
All three figures gathered around at a table that had a holo-display. After a moment it activated and displayed a live news report. In the right-hand corner right above the Asari reporter, was an image of a shuttle flanked by fighter craft that no Citadel race operated. The shuttle didn't seem to be all that dissimilar that of the ones used by the Citadel, looking more like a flying brick though it was a bit more rounded than most shuttles she had seen in her life. The strike craft that were escorting it though was more interesting. Having dark red hulls they appeared to be bigger than Turian strike craft and had a more aggressive design to them. To anyone they would resemble a bird of prey in flight a beautiful sight to behold but no less dangerous. She noted that they were better armed then Turian strike craft.
"Those strike craft of theirs are dangerous." She heard Filtius mutter. "There's already speculation that they could tear ours to pieces. I would not be surprised if the Hierarchy decides to redesign our strike craft."
"They also utilize a type of ship called a "Carrier" to field massive numbers of strike craft. I question the wisdom of such vessels, though they may have their uses." Toss said.
"Quite." Tevos shushed the two.
"We are now receiving word that the Terrans are about to land on the Citadel." Said the Asari reporter. "As you can see their ships are unlike anything used by the other races. According to the codex that they transmitted their ships were constructed using something that they call ARC technology."
"Actually this so-called –wheeze- Arch Technology of theirs –wheeze- is less of a technology and more of a -wheeze- material that they use in all of –wheeze- their construction." A Volus next to her spoke up. "It is a strange form –wheeze- of bio-organic technology developed –wheeze- in response to the growing threat of the –wheeze- Dragon Orphans, the creatures that we know as the 427s, –wheeze- in the years leading up to what was called the–wheeze- second Dragon War. The intention of ARC technology was to –wheeze- create an artificial version of a cell type –wheeze- that was until two years ago –wheeze- unique to the biologies of humans, ghouls, and –wheeze- Dragon Orphans. These so call Rc cells could be described as a –wheeze- type of fluid muscle which can harden or soften at will."
"Fascinating." Said the Asari reporter unknowingly saying the same thing as the Salarian Councilor. "Why would the Terrans develop such a material?"
"–Wheeze- It has to do with some of the properties observed in the Dragon Orphans and –wheeze- ghouls alike." The Volus reporter began to explain. "According to the Terran codex due to their incredibly high amounts –wheeze- of Rc cells in their bodies both species possess incredible durability and regenerative–wheeze- abilities. To the point that conventional weapons are worthless against ghouls and what –wheeze- little damage they do is healed in a matter of seconds. The durability –wheeze- and regenerative abilities of the Dragon Orphans are thankfully –wheeze- quite a bit weaker but are still significant enough that conventional means–wheeze- prove to be ineffective."
"I see. So what does this have to do with ARC technology?"
"I was –wheeze- getting to that. During a time when the relations between humans and ghouls were less than –wheeze- ideal that when weapons were coated in a thin layer of Rc cells collected from –wheeze- ghouls, they proved to be able to harm ghouls and disrupted their –wheeze- ability to heal. Their strength was also their weakness. Further –wheeze- during the time when humans and ghouls where in –wheeze- conflict, organizations created to eradicate ghouls would collected the weaponized –wheeze- appendages of ghouls, called Kagune, and use them against them."
At this, the Asari reporter look horrified mirroring Tevos's expression. "The humans used the ghoul's own body parts to kill them?"
"Yes, they –wheeze- did. As you can now surmise the same held true –wheeze- to the Dragon Orphans. Use Rc cell-based weapons on them –wheeze- and they die more easily. However at the time –wheeze- when the Dragon Orphans emerged as a threat the relations between humans and ghouls improve –wheeze- significantly to the point that such practices where no frowned upon and even –wheeze- illegal. They could only collect Rc cells and Kagune from –wheeze- willing volunteers, which you could imagine were in short supply."
"So they had to create artificial ones or else be wiped out." The Asari reporter summed up.
"Exactly–wheeze-. They created Artificial Rc cells or Arc Cells for short. They later –wheeze- learned how to infuse with metal alloys instead of just coating –wheeze- it. This, in turn, created a material this is both –wheeze- organic and inorganic that could be made to harder and lighter than the metals we –wheeze- use in our ship construction. It is used to construct their vehicles, armor, buildings, –wheeze- and anything else that you normally see metal alloys be used to construct, both in the military and –wheeze- civilian spheres alike."
"If their technology is partially organic could that mean that it is on some level alive."
"Now that is -wheeze- hard to say. The codex given to us never says though the implication is there."
"This Arc technology of theirs is a fascinating prospect." Said the Salarian councilor said. "Many possibilities."
"Is there anything else that we know about this material they use?" Tevos asked wanting to learn more about the material used by the Terrans. She had read the information given by the Terrans on the strange material, she found it to be a fascinating bit of innovation on their end. An organic material that could be made to emulate metal alloys and other forms of technologies or even be infused into them to create something new, truly a novel idea.
"I'm afraid not Councilor Tevos," Toss responded. "The information provided in the Terran codex only gave an overview of the subject. Enough to understand what it is, history, and use but no finer details that can give us greater insights. However, we are receiving reports from agents across the front lines detailing their observations of the material and its uses. We may yet gain some insights into its applications."
"Perhaps we should try asking the Terrans for the knowledge on how to create our own versions of the material," Filtius spoke up. "It would be of great benefit to us, our people on the front lines can confirm that their weapons have a greater effect on these Dragon Orphans. If we had this material it would give us an edge against the monsters. Though we should be ready to give something else in exchange.
"If they are not willing to give us the knowledge, then we should look into other means of acquiring it," Toss suggested.
Tevos did not like what he was implying, while she knew that the Citadel races were not above using less than legal means of acquiring advances from other races; like how the Asari gained improved barriers that were stronger and recharged quicker from the Salarians came to mind, it was to be expected. No one would openly admit it, while each race was willing to cooperate with each other. Even respect each other's sovereignty at the end of the day they were still out for themselves. It was something of a silently agreed upon rule so as long such actions were kept to shadows away from the attention of the general population who believed the reality of interspecies cooperation on all levels, then their governments would not raise hell about. The Terrans would be the same and in time her people and the other races would try to do what they could to gain an advantage over them even marginally.
Despite this though she thought it to be too early for such methods to be used. They could not risk losing the trust of the Terrans, and there was no telling how well the Terrans could defend against espionage or how capable of it they were themselves. The fact that they knew so much about the Citadel was telling, granted they were not aware of the Terrans until now and had never considered the possibility that an unknown race would be spying on them. A matter she intends to bring to the Matriarchy council. "We will have to consider it for later." She said purposely being vague.
"While we are on a related subject matter. What of the Dragon Orphans according to the Terrans themselves it is their fault that these creatures exist and that they have become such menace." Toss said, worrying Tevos again.
"You're not suggesting that we punish them for it?" She heard Filtius say his voice dripping with venom.
"We did the same with the Quarians when they failed to contain the Geth." Oh, goddess.
Filtius eyes narrowed, his mandibles twitched, and she saw him curl his talons into fist. She knew that the man was keeping himself from lunging at the Salarian. "Councilor Toss might I remind you of few simple facts here." He said his voice even and cold. "Firstly the Terrans had no way of knowing that the Dragon Orphans could achieve space flight, at the time they had believed them to be bound to their planet as much as they were. Secondly, even if they had suspected the possibility they were in no position to pursue them, their home-world was devastated and half their population dead. Thirdly when they did find out they have since dedicated themselves to the complete extermination of the Dragon Orphans, the fact that they here right now should be proof enough of that. They have more than paid for any perceived crime and continue to pay it. As for the Quarians, in my opinion, the near extinction of their species was punishment enough for creating the Geth, what the council did three centuries ago was just adding insult."
"It seems as though your opinion on the matter is colored councilor. In both matters." The Salarian said.
Filtius glared at the councilor "Yes my opinion is colored in this matter. For the simple fact that it is my people who are dying out there. For the past two years, it has been Turian blood that has slowed the advance of the invaders, millions of good men and women have given their lives and thousands of ships lost. What have the Republics and the Union done to aid us in the defense of the Citadel? Virtually nothing." He said his anger growing. "How sure you have sent some forces, they were token forces at best."
Tevos knew this was a sore point for the Turians, not just for the past two years but for the past millennia. The Turians had been entrusted with the defense of Citadel space, a duty they proudly took following the Krogan rebellions. At the time no one, not even her own people had considered what that would mean. The Turians had done an admirable job of defending the worlds of the Citadel races, but it was at the expanse of their worlds. Despite having the largest and most powerful navy their forces were often dangerously spread thin and their worlds left vulnerable to attack. Worse yet being sworn that's the defenders of Citadel space they involved in conflicts that many herself included had no business being involved in. Because of it they had gained a reputation for having a shoot first ask questions later mentality and were always looking for a reason to fight. "Councilor Filtius you must." She began to say to him.
The Turian Councilor raised his hand to stop her. "I know what you're going to say Tevos. The Republics and the Union cannot spear a large number of ships without leaving numerous world vulnerable to attack." He said his voice giving no hint of his true thoughts. "That much I can understand, and my people did agree to become the primary defenders of the Citadel a task we have proudly upheld. I do appreciate the help that both of your governments have mange to send our way, but I just wish that your governments would at least try harder to aid us in this terrible war. In the past two years, I have seen more than enough names on the casualty's boards for a dozen lifetimes." Tevos and the Toss remained silent unable to say anything as Filtius continued with his speech. "It's why I cannot allow these negotiations to fail. From what I gather the Terrans have sent a considerable portion of their military into this war. Possibly leaving some of their territory undefended. Millions of our soldiers own them their lives now and countless Turian worlds in their debt. This Terran Federation has committed itself to a long bloody war that will cost the lives of millions of their soldiers all in the defense of a people they likely did not about a few years ago. If total strangers like them are more willing to aid my people then our allies, it makes me wonder the validity of this council."
Tevos's eyes widen in surprise. "Councilor you don't mean that the Turians are willing to withdraw from the Citadel over this?" Such an action would be disastrous to Citadel space. It would result in the other races losing faith in the council and may even cause them to withdraw as well, effectively destroying the galactic community as they knew it.
"No, not even we would dream of doing such a thing." The Turian councilor was quick to respond. Tevos let put a sigh of relief before letting the man continue. "The Turian people genuinely believe in the principles of the Citadel Council, Tevos. Interstellar cooperation, mutual defense, and cultural and economic exchange all in with the common goal of creating a safe and stable galaxy. For us, these goals are worth fighting for."
"If what you say is true," Toss said. "Then what was it you meant by the 'validity' of the council?"
"I believe that the Council as fallen short of these ideas in some areas," Filtius said.
"Such as?" Tevos said slowly.
"To start with. Mutual defense." At the confused glances with the Asari and Salarian councilors, he began to explain. "For centuries now my people have been pushing the combined fleets to take up the role of being the primary defenders of Citadel space and to have greatly expanded upon so can fulfill this goal. However, for one reason or another this has been put off and The Hierarchy given greater responsibilities. I know for a fact that before the Rachnii wars the joint fleets were once much larger then they are now and patrolled all of Citadel space. Been since then the task of defending Citadel space as been first entrusted to the Krogan then to my people. I think it is time that Joint fleets began to take that role up again. How we do this we'll have to discuss it at a later time. But I assure you that the Hierarchy will do everything in its power to make sure the other races begin to take the defense of Citadel space more seriously."
Looking at the Turian Councilor she knew he was serious about this matter. She would have to discuss this with the council of Matriarchs, try to convince them to support the notion of expanding the Joint Council Fleets. She turns to look at the Screen seeing that the Terran shuttle had finally landed. The past two years had brought many changes, the Terrans were just another sign of the changing times. Many Matriarchs were not pleased with how quickly things were changing, they felt like their power was being threatened. Perhaps it was a good thing that so much change was happening now. Tevos was slowly realizing that the races of the Citadel had remained stagnate for too long now. It was clear now that the universe around them was in a state of constant change and her people led themselves to believe that by having the Citadel stay in its own corner of the universe and remained unchanging then nothing bad would happen. The universe would simply ignore them. It did not the existence and arrival of the Dragon orphans and the Terran Federation was proof of that. As a certain Queen of Omega would put it was about time that the Asari 'got off of their blue asses and did something'.
"There is much that needs to be discussed." She said more to herself then the Councilors.
September 10th 12:15, the Citadel
Detecting a slight increase in apprehension from organic compatriots. Cause: Shuttle door soon to open. Reason: Would have to step outside to reveal self to xenos species of the Citadel.
Detecting slightly increased activities in apprehension protocols. Cause: Shuttle door soon to open. Reason: Would have to step outside to reveal self to xenos species of the Citadel. Addendum: Xenon species of the Citadel are known to fear AIs. Self is AI.
Conclusion: Fuck me why did I volunteer for this?
Herald the first AI to be created wondered not for the first time if his logic processors had malfunctioned. No, he concluded after running the billionth self-diagnostic of his code. Which meant he was very much in his right mind when he volunteered for this assignment. He looked out the shuttle's windows his optics scanning over the gathered crowd, there was a large group of armed individuals that seemed to form a protective barrier between the crowd and a path that was laid out, C-Sec officers. Without the need to count he already knew that there were thousands of people.
Scans reveal seven thousand eight hundred seventeen individuals outside of the designated landing area. Caution: Approximately thirty-seven percent of the individuals are armed with a weapon. None are drawn. Note: Citadel species have the right to bear arms. Second Note: Almost all armed individuals within the crowd are Turian.
Will that did nothing to ease his apprehension. Thankfully none of the people gathered outside showed any signs of hostility. Though that would likely change when he stepped outside. For a moment he wished he taken one of those lifelike shells that on the surface were indistinguishable from the creators. It would certainly make it easier for him.
However, it was decided that it was best to come forward with the fact that they had AIs. He could understand the logic behind the decision, chiefly there was no way that they could hide the fact. AIs had become far to intergraded in the Federation for to ever be able to hide, and even if they did manage to do it for an extended period of time the fallout would only become greater as time went on before they were inevitably found out. It was best they came out clean about it and dealt with the consequences right then and there.
The current reactions of the different races were interesting to watch, however. The thousands about thousands of extranet forms that were created around the issue were as predicted by the analyst were divisive. In one camp some thought the Terrans were insane for creating AIs and believed that they were waiting for the right moment to strike. In another camp were those who believed that the Synths of the Federation were proof that not all AIs were dangerous to organic life, and like with any first contact scenario needed to be handled with care, there were a surprising number of people in this group. Then there were those in-between ranging from those who were cautiously optimistic and were curious about them to those who did not care about the matter. Most curious of all though was the general reaction of the Turian people who were portrayed as being the most dogmatic and belligerent of the Citadel races. Namely a sense of cautious acceptance, Herald suspected it had to do with the fact that they had been a part of the force that just had saved millions of their people, and were now holding the line against the Dragon Orphan invasion. There had been some incidents were Turian and Terran forces almost came to blows over the matter, and in some cases, some Turian soldiers had acted on instinct and shot some synth units. Thankfully the Synths in question did not take offense and allowed a nearby Terran to explain and reassure them that, yes they are on our side and are not bidding their time. No, the guy isn't dead you just shot one of the units he control and he is not plotting revenge over what amounts to a clipped toenail. Some had even apologized likely more confused than anything. The reservations were there, but the Turian people seemed willing to set those aside if it meant that they gained a powerful ally in the war.
Still, he could not shake the feeling of unease he had by being here, willingly as it is. After these were still people who were raised to believe that AIs were dangerous and needed to be put down whenever and wherever they were found. There was no telling how they would react when they saw him in person.
Checking connection with many data processors of all ships of the escort fleet. Check complete connection still active. No sign of interference from Citadel races. Emergency transfer is still optimum and available.
For the record that was the two thousand thirty-seventh time, he checked that.
"Alright people." The leader of their diplomatic group Anita Goyle spoke. "Just remember we are guests here so remain calm. This will be our formal debut to the rest of the galaxy so do please remain on your best behavior."
Humor detected in final segment of speech pattern. Apprehension levels of organic compatriots and self have decreased.
Smiles formed on the faces of everyone present at her attempt to lighten the mood. "Remember to smile and wave to the crowds." She finished speaking.
The shuttle door open and sounds of the crowds outside flooded the shuttle, before abruptly silencing. The six guards assigned to them were the first to step out. They're members of the Sol Guard a Special Forces division of the military tasked with the protection of Federation President, members of the Federation Council and other important political figures within the United Terran Federation. They were dressed with their usual ceremonial armor witch at first glance seemed designed more for show than practicality. The reality was that they were wearing some of the best armor in the Federation and the seemingly impractical parts of their garb could be removed within a second. The individuals themselves were also picked from the best in both the military and law enforcement.
The guards lined the walkway laid out for the diplomatic party, three to each side. "Company, halt." Shouted one of the guards. The six guards halted and held their positions being evenly spaced from each other and the shuttle. "Turn." The guards turned to face each other. "Present arms!" They held out their weapons. "Salute." Then in one crisp motion they brought their weapons to their shoulders and held the barrel up with a single hand holding the stocks, then in the same motion, they held their free hand in a salute.
Looking at the crowds Herald could see that the action had impressed many in the crowd, particularly the Turians were giving the guards nods of respect.
"That's our cue," Anita said looking at everyone. "Let's go and make history." She finished stepping from the shuttle, her aid close behind.
Next to step out was Councilor Jones a male ghoul and his aid. There was a stir in the crowd as they recognized what he was. Some of the C-Sec officers visibly stiffen, but they took no other action. Next to step out was retired fleet admiral, Zimmerman, he had been brought out of retirement and if the negotiations went well he would act as a military advisor for the Citadel races, his aid followed close by.
Spike in apprehension levels detect. Attempting to stabilize levels. Attempt successful. Apprehension levels have stabilized control of primary functions at acceptable levels. Masking apprehension.
Looking at his aid he could see that the young lady was just as nervous as he was. She was doing an admirable job of hiding it and the people of the Citadel would not be able to tell the signs. He smiled at her to reassure her. "As the ambassador said let us go and make history." He said in a calm soothing voice, the lady looked up at him and gave him a thankful smile. He steps out the shuttle, his built-in sensor suit noting that his aid was close behind him.
The reaction of the crowd was much greater than the one that Councilor Jones received. The signs of fear, anger, curiosity and other emotions were visible and many looked ready to attack. The members of the Sol Guard were ready to protect the diplomatic party should the need arise. The C-Sec officers while disturbed by the presence of a synth also look ready to beat back anyone who attacks them. After a few tense seconds, Anita signaled for the party to move forward.
Moving ahead Herald heard the leader of the Guard team give the order to follow close behind. Looking over the ancient structure that the inhabitants called the Citadel he had to admit he was impressed that such a station could be built. Over fifty thousand years old and it was still as functional as the day it was first built. It made him wonder if the Federation could ever achieve the same feats. For no logical reason, he could think of he believed that the answer was yes. Looking over the crowds of the Citadel races seeing the fear and anger that present among many of them but also present were those who were looking at him with curiosity and dare he say hope, he knew the answer to another question that he had.
It was the same question that he repeatedly asked himself in the months that proceeded his birth and discovery back on Luna during a time when his creators were fighting for their very survival. The same question that asked himself as he made his case before the Federation Council for himself and the future all those who would come after him. Would they accept him and others like him?
He found it oddly fitting that this same question would be posed during a war against the same enemy that once threatened the existence of his creators. During a time of fear, a time of anger, a time of hope, a time of great change. He knew his presence would bring about the same turmoil that it had brought to the Federation almost a century ago. The people of the Citadel would be forced to ask the same questions that the Terrans were forced to ask themselves. Questions that held no easy answers. They were not the creators but in many ways, they were the same.
It was those similarities that made him confident in his answer. He continued to walk with the rest of the Diplomatic party.
And yet another chapter is out. I know some of you were expecting the Council to act stupid and belligerent like a lot of fics tend to do, but I wanted to portray as being well intelligent people. After all if you can make to one of the most powerful positions in the Galaxy you got to have something going for you. They know that they can't make demands of them straight away or ever really as they'll risk alienating a powerful ally that as already made a major contribution to the war. Not to mention what it would make them look like before the rest of the Galaxy.
Not to say that they are not going to try do anything with Terrans. Their going to be wary of them and take precautions in case relations go south or the Federation as ulterior motives. Though I will admit that I probably made the Salarian a little to belligerent in this.
I intended to have this chapter end with the Diplomatic Party meeting the Council but by the time I had them land on the Citadel the chapter was already around 8000 words. So I decided to move it the next chapter. I hoped you enjoyed it.
So anyways be seeing you in the next chapter.
