Chapter 6 As Time Goes By
Sol system
Year 209 ME28
August 19th
A Quarian flotilla slowly made its way to Sol, guided by the humans. It was the first batch of settlers sent by the Quarian Migrant Fleet to prepare the Human gift Craftworld for the settlement and colonization by twenty-five million souls of the Migrant Fleet. The first of these settlers were part of the Patrol Fleet sent to verify the condition and status of the Craftworld and decide upon how to best settle and increase efficiency. On the flotilla were Zaal'Koris and Rael'Zorah who were the first Quarians to confirm the existence of the new race. They both, thanks to their efforts, were given the opportunity to be the first Quarians to visit Sol and set foot on their potential new home.
"You know I'm a bit annoyed at the fact that you had me dragged into this 'shady' business with the Admiralty Board," said Rael'Zorah.
"I'm sorry," Zaal'Koris gave an apology to his friend. "I didn't have a choice. The Admirals wanted to keep this a secret until they can confirm the success of First Contact."
"But is it really true though, about the whole story with the Geth Rebellion?" asked Rael'Zorah. "I find it hard to believe that all this time, all this suffering was all because of an attack by an unknown hostile race."
"It is hard to believe, that I understand." Replied Zaal'Koris.
"But wait, were you even aware of this truth?" Rael questioned his friend. "Sounds to me like they did tell you something."
"They somewhat did," admitted Koris. "They didn't exactly tell me what it was initially, they intentionally left it vague. But I had some idea from their conversations and things I manage to overhear, namely a few keywords that told me that something bigger was happening behind the scenes."
"Well, I suppose it is all in the past now," Rael said as the flotilla exited out of FTL now having arrived at the Sol System.
"By the Ancestors are those rings?!" Exclaimed Koris in shock and awe at what he was seeing.
Rael'Zorah too was speechless but wasn't the only one, as many Quarians that were across the ship and the flotilla was too awestruck at the sight they were seeing before their eyes. The Star System itself was a trinary star system, with two yellow dwarfs orbiting a central system barycenter at approximately 0.16 light years apart from one another. With a red dwarf that is currently orbiting the original star system before it was transformed. The star system had come a long way from what it was originally. It was now the site of mankind's greatest achievement and history. It was the center of their interstellar, in terms of industry, government, and culture. It was also where the majority of humanity lived and is also the site of some of the greatest megastructures ever constructed. The area around Sol, as one would describe a work of art. The arriving Quarians began to understand that when humanity said they were going to remake Sol, they meant it literally.
What the Quarians saw was only the tip of the spear. They were currently in the Reach System, in the Aurora Star cluster of the Sol system. The Sol system is divided into numerous clusters. The two stars orbiting the system barycenter are considered two separate clusters. Other clusters are either a group of stations packed to a single location. Or an area with multiple Dyson spheres powered by artificial stars forming a cluster to clusters of habitats, etc. And like all important systems the Sol system was filled to the brim with defenses and other platforms and facilities. Millions of satellites orbit Sol forming what is known as the Planetary Defense Network controlled by a Warmind humanity's greatest artificial intelligence created for war. It controls a network consisting of hundreds of billions of Warsats, military defense platforms, and other defense installations. Ensuring the protection of the Sol system against any threats. What really catch the attention of the Quarians was the massive ring world that surround and span across the system. It was a construction that was once considered in the realm of science fiction or science fantasy even.
"Keelah…" one of the many spectating Quarian muttered as he stood back up from his seat. Rael'Zorah could not blame his reaction to what he was seeing.
From the outside the star system looked just like a normal solar system but, it was anything but. The inner six planets looked normal. It was what was on the outside that shocked him.
"Is that a… ringworld?" Rael'Zorah said in shock.
A ringworld was a mega structure that thus far has only existed in theory. It was a massive ring-like structure around a star that could be used to house a population or other industries. Having one would equal having the population and industrial output of an entire mass relay cluster. It was a theoretical design that was considered mainly as a thought experiment and a piece of science fiction. But with what they saw here, it was no longer science fiction but reality.
"They must have stripped the materials from... everywhere else in their interstellar empire..." Rael said in shock.
"The size of it... the scale... this is a feat of engineering far beyond anything the rest of the galaxy has," Koris said.
Then a group of transmissions appeared on the Omni-tool, Rael numbly pressed the button on the console, and the face of the pair's other friends appeared on screen and in the call.
"Hey Rael, are you all seeing this?" asked Han'Gerrel his other friend shakily.
"Yes… how many Humans do you think could live on something like that?" Koris asked.
"Probably hundreds of Billion to even trillions perhaps... if you gave everyone a nice garden..." Said another Quarian who the pair identified as Daro'Xen who replied dryly.
"That's not all, they have a Dyson swarm-type sphere. The top and bottom of the star are covered with solar panels. There's just a gap at the equator to make sure the ringworld and other planets in the system don't freeze." Daro'Xen continued.
"Then what's that massive construction on the upper pole?" Raan another friend of theirs asked. Pointing the holographic view of the system's star.
Rael'Zorah shifted his gaze to the top of the star and saw a massive installation. It looked like... a giant sensor... a sensor the size of a moon...
"I think that might be how the Humans are able to detect us light years away..." Daro'Xen replied.
"Where did they get materials for all this? The planets and asteroids aren't enough for all of this..." Rael muttered.
"Humans must have more up their sleeves. The question still stands. They are the youngest of the races, so how are they so advanced? This goes beyond Prothean ruins, this is what a civilization looks like in tens of thousands of years. Even the Asari aren't remotely close to this level of technology.
To a brittle mind, these constructions look divine…" Daro'Xen said.
"Divine... I suppose that's one way to put it." Koris said with a shake of his head.
Rael agreed with Koris, it was really divine. There weren't that many inhabitable planets per solar system even having one was a rarity. Yes, some could be terraformed but terraforming candidates were at most two per system since the planets needed to be in the Goldilocks zone where liquid water was a possibility. In the back of his mind, Rael'Zorah wondered how a race or a group of races in the trillions or even quadrillions confined to a single solar system could possibly field a fleet of this size, they would have to be better at cramming people in tight than the Quarians, and the Quarians were really good at that. Past the ringworld was a massive asteroid belt that seemed to form a sphere around the Star system in a hazardous debris field.
Rael'Zorah watched silently as the Migrant Fleet moved towards one of the ringworld segments. The very fact that as they moved the size of the ringworld didn't seem to get any bigger was a testament to its scale. In space, it was often hard to get a true sense of scale since there was nothing to act as a reference. Technically there was the star but stars come in many shapes and honestly, most minds struggled to fully comprehend anything on the stellar scale. It took hours but finally, they were close to the ringworld. Rael could only watch mutely as they sailed along the massive structure, this place made the Citadel look like a toy. Then they were led to what must have been a dry dock area and Rael'Zorah got the first look at what was to be his race's new home.
The Craftworlds were truly beautiful ships, massive in their construction and dwarfing even the Asari's Destiny Ascension or the Citadel. Their hulls were painted a gleaming white, their defense guns standing tall and proud. These armaments beat anything the other races could bring to bear and from what she had been told these ships were designed for defense, not offense. So these monsters were more than capable of defending themselves from any attack. With a thick hull of reinforced armor and powerful shields, they can weather most blows. Even the Turians would now need to think twice before having a go at the Quarians.
"Hey Rael, we're getting called," said Koris, snapping him out of his thoughts.
"What for?" He asked confused at why they were being called.
"They're actually looking for you," explained Koris. "Since we are about to land on the ringworld, from there we are to travel to the ship. They need someone to confirm its viability for our people to live in and check what is needed for the ship to be livable. Your the best person they got."
I see." Nodded Rael.
Rael'Zorah, having worked in maintenance and life support across the ship, was suitable for the task at hand. Having spent years stationed on the Rayya, a Liveship, which are enormous spacecraft that served the agricultural needs of the Quarian Migrant Fleet. The first Liveship, Rayya, was under construction at an outlying colony as part of a further colonization endeavor at the time of the Morning War; incorporated into the nascent Migrant Fleet, hastily completed and refitted for maximum agricultural capacity, it served as the template for two more live ships. The three ships' combined hydroponic and organic recycling capacity was the linchpin of the fleet, and thus received unqualified priority in defense and maintenance, as the loss of even one Liveship would result in famine and potentially the reduction of the Quarian population below the threshold for viability as a species. Despite this critical need, the fleet was never able to follow through on proposals to construct additional live ships, owing to the demands of general maintenance and renewal of the fleet's vessels as time passed.
Although not warships by any stretch of the imagination, the live ships were fitted with extensive combat systems focused on defense and self-preservation. These were further upgraded with dreadnought-grade main weaponry prior to the Quarian effort to retake Rannoch from the Geth during the Times of Crisis, in which the live ships were deployed in military operations. Although the publically stated rationale for this was that separating the live ships from the fleet would risk their being located and destroyed in its absence, it was common knowledge among the Quarians that the arming of the live ships represented the all-or-nothing nature of the war: either the fleet would be victorious, reclaiming Rannoch's land to make up for any damage to the live ships, or the Quarian people would be wiped out.
Although that plan never came to fruition. The state of the Liveships and their dire position was reflected by the Quarian people's desire to survive as long as possible. No matter the cost or the consequence of their action. Rael"Zorah was one of the many engineers responsible for keeping the Liveship as functional as possible. They worked tirelessly to ensure the Liveship would allow the Quarians to continue living. But now that they have a new home, a massive world ship as he would describe it. He was now making his way there to confirm and check the ship out for any issues that they might have. And hopefully, find a resolution or a solution to fix the problem without much issue. However, nothing could have prepared him for what he was walking into. Rael'Zorah's expectation for the Craftworld was fairly standard. He had assumed it was a massive ship with an interior similar to many space stations across the galaxy. Or to the Citadel, with its massive five wards which contain a fairly sizeable city and city skyscrapers, holding millions all around a main circular presidium area. His initial expectation was more to the Citadel. However, he was blown away at what he saw when he first step foot in the Craftworld biodomes.
It couldn't be described in words initially. His reaction was alternating between shock, amazement, and incredulous, to something completely divine. Where he was standing currently one at a first glance could mistake him for being in a "paradise" garden world. But in fact, he was standing on one of the many biodomes systems that are located throughout the vessel. The Craft worlds are well-named, for they are effectively artificial worlds in space, each a self-contained biosystem, with forested and natural areas as well as urbanized ones. These natural areas provide a breathable atmosphere for the craft world and renewable resources. Rael'Zorah was standing in one of those Biodomes with an environment featuring that of a standard garden world or Gaia world by the human designation, featuring mountains, rivers, hills, plains, and even beaches and vast oceans. All are contained within a single Biodome, but that is just one biodome, across the vessel there were many biodomes, each featuring a different environment with different Fauna and Flora. What is more is that natural resources are gathered by the ship and tend transported to the biodomes, where they would refill the natural "veins" of minerals and other resources for its inhabitant to utilize.
Rael'Zorah couldn't wait to begin exploring. He wanted to visit all the biodomes to see what they have to offer. Never before he had thought it was possible for a spacecraft like this to exist. It was almost as if the deities themselves handcrafted this vessel for the mortal races to use and inhabit. His fellow compatriots and colleagues were too also stunned by the scene in their view.
"What this is insane?" said one
"I must admit this is impressive." said another.
"How did the Humans even create this?" said a Quarian engineer from his department. "This goes beyond creation, this is essentially godhood right here."
"I know, but even then it's hard to believe the Humans can create such ships," Rael'Zorah replied.
"Damn right this ship here was created by our hands." said a gruff voice the Quarian turned to see a group of three human engineers walking towards them.
"She is the pinnacle and the result of thousands of years of ship development. Design for an era where we would utilize Slower-than-light engines and methods. We design this ship as a testament to our ambition our arrogance and our creativity and inventiveness." he continued.
Rael asked "And you are...?"
"Chief engineer Gregory Adams." the newly identified human introduced himself. "Beside me are my fellow colleagues Engineers Kenneth Donnelly and Gabriella Daniels. The three of us will help you get accustomed to your new home or in this case ship. Introducing the essential systems, key facilities, and how to make repairs in the event in case something breaks during travel. You all have lots to learn. I expect your full attention and cooperation."
"I see thank you for your help and guidance Chief engineer," replied Rael. "I was wondering if we were going to be left alone to our own devices. Trying to figure the ship out ourselves."
Chief Engineer Adams laugh. "Well, that would not be nice of us. After all, this ship is magnificent work of art it would be a shame if you were to unintentionally destroy it because of ignorance. But no we are going to guide you on how to operate and run this ship. This ship is one of the largest ships we have ever built and it is our duty as engineers to ensure it works all the time. In all my time working for the military, I thought I saw all kinds of warships. But after the war, I decided to try my hands in the civilian sector. And oh boy, they had ships bigger than what we have in the military."
"You were in the military?" asked Rael.
"Yes, I was." Chief Engineer Adams answered. "Spent most of my life in the military repairing systems and running the ship. It was a job that one cannot get used to. So many ships with different engines of all shapes. You can never get tired of the component that runs the bad boys. Even after transferring to the civilian sector, at the end of the war. I still love listening to the engines. After the war, the military decided to mothball most of the navy as the Reaper threat was no more at this time. We engineers had to go and look for a new job. As such, many joined the civilian sector. But even then our jobs essentially still remain the same. As we engineers are the lifeblood of the ship's engines and key systems. I think you can agree with me on that statement."
"Rightly so, Chief Engineer," replied Rael. "As an engineer myself I was responsible for keeping our ships afloat even after centuries of travel. As you can see from the ships of our flotilla these ships are still space worthy."
"A remarkable achievement Quarian," said Chief Engineer Adams. "It's hard to imagine a ship as primitive to yours, no offense by the way, to survive that long."
"No offense taken Chief Engineer, it is rare to see praise, especially from a species we just only met," Rael replied. "Most species across the galaxy would see us beggars and thieves who live in broken-down decrepit ships. Broken-down ships usually found themselves in the hands of pirates. Therefore, we don't usually get praise but the scorn of the galaxy."
"That is unfortunate." Chief Engineer Adams frowned in response. "Because to me, you are all a bunch of good people. Your species have survived thanks to your ability to adapt, your resourcefulness, and combined with your ability to adapt to any given situation. Makes you a species that is capable and worthy of surviving in my eyes."
"I...I... I don't know what to say," said Rael. "Your the first person to have ever praised us."
"Well, consider this a praise and admiration that should have been given long ago." Replied Chief Engineer Adams. "It saddens me and at the same time makes me disappointed that the races of the present have treated you like this. For that, I apologize for everything you have suffered so far to make it here."
"No need to apologize, Chief Engineer," Rael assured him. "We have already decided to put that past behind us in favor of a newer and better future for our race."
"That's good then, now where were we? Ah, of course, I was supposed to give you a basic tour of the Biodome today so follow me and we'll show you around." the Chief Engineer directed the Quarians.
"Very well then, lead the way, Chief Engineer," Rael said.
Without a moment to waste, the tree human engineers and the Quarian group took off to tour the Biodome. As evident by many Quarians in the group, they were all too excited to be able to view the biodome and have the human engineers explain how it all works. It would seem that the gears of progress for the Quarian people have finally begun to turn once again after so many years, so much suffering and so much stagnation. They had suffered to survive in an uncaring galaxy, and now they were going to be rewarded for their brave sacrifice and suffering.
...
Meanwhile, while the Quarians were busy touring the Craftworld. The Admiralty Board was on the Ringworld having lunch and coffee with the Chancellor of Sol-Gov. Having invited the Quarians after missing out on the initial meeting. Chancellor Francis Noe was hoping to make up for this by having this relaxing meeting and discussion with the Quarian Admiralty Board. As such, he had personally arranged for this working or business launch for the Quarian Admiralty Board. The business lunch took place on the hills located in one of the many habitation sectors of the Ringworld. Located in a small cafe with a picturesque view of the plains below. It was a great location to have the meeting. The peaceful and calm setting made it perfect for the Quarians and the Chancellor to settle in and have a chat.
The Quarian Admiralty was served a delicious six-course meal as a courtesy of the Chancellor's hospitality. They had a wide variety of meals, which includes a Fois Gras appetizers served with bread, cream soup, fresh grilled salmon cooked with lemons and rosemary, the main course consisting of pasta carbonara with ham and chicken, a salad, tea or coffee, and deserts being a wide variety of their own choosing. Meals like this were rare during the wartime rationing situation of the Long War. But now after nineteen years since the time displacement event. Added by a revitalization of the peacetime economy Full-course dinners were once again a common feature to the elites of the Sol System. Taking its place once again, as a showcase of humanity's once vast wealth and plenty.
Although, most aliens such as the Protheans are themselves an imperialistic power. Often find themselves, certainly uncomfortable with the vast display of food during such meals. More often than not the aliens cannot fathom the need to eat what essentially they describe as a wasteful or blatant show of wealth and decadence. Nevertheless, it still remains a core part of the human elite culture. With even the Prothean and countless alien refugee elites of their exile government and alien empires took on this practice to some extent. It is also important for diplomacy, as seen here by the Quarian Admiralty who are given this treatment by the Sol-Gov Chancellor. After all, this is a staple of one of the oldest forms of human diplomacy. As indicated by the Culinary Diplomacy doctrine of humanity: The Power of Food as a Tool of Peace.
Even into the 28th Millennium Food still plays a Huge Part in Diplomacy. Having good food served can shape politics, deals, cooperation, and treaties for peace between respective parties. Food allows for communication and a relaxed mind, allowing the parties to be "humanized" in a way. This is done in order to allow for successful diplomacy to be conducted. This is why today the Quarians today are served with the best of the best of human hospitality and culinary arts. So far say, the effort of the humans had paid off, and the Quarians are enjoying their meals.
"I must say, Chancellor, this is a great view you have for us here," said Admiral Shan'Valay. "It is a rare experience to be in the presence of something so ... heavenly."
Chancellor Noe laugh. "You flatter me Quarian, this is something we had access to for a while now. It's been more than a thousand years give or take."
"Yet no species in the galaxy or species from the ancient past that we know of had even had the idea, motivation, and dedication to building vast megastructures of your caliber." Admiral Shan pointed. "In our perspective, only the deities and the gods could only hope to build such a structure."
"And yet here we are," said Chancellor Noe. "Unless we are in a simulation or simulated world what I see here is enough proof that it is a reality to me."
"I suppose I can agree with that," replied Admiral Shan.
"Once again we thank you for inviting us here today," said Admiral Darien'Xen for the first time. "Your hospitality was the first time our species had experienced since the fall of the homeworld. For that we are thankful."
"No problem," replied Chancellor Noe. "This was supposed to be my apologies for missing out on the First Contact meeting between my race and yours. My duties as Chancellors meant that their busy schedule had to interrupt my plans. This meeting here was to make up for that."
"No worries no worries," said Admiral Darien. "We understand your current plight and issues."
"I see thank you," the Chancellor raises his hand to signal the waiter. "So how are you all liking the food? I hope it is all up to your standards I presumed?"
"Yes, it was," answered Admiral Sharlaya'Rafana. "I was surprised to find out that your foods are compatible with our biology."
"I am glad to hear it, while most of the alien refugees we had taken over the years could eat our food. Some, however, still can't, we can eat foods from both Levo and Dextro protein DNA species without any issue. In fact, our race including the Protheans is just one of the few who can eat foods from both chiralities. This meant our food can be eaten by a wide variety of different species on both sides. Of course, there are still limitations to that for certain species. Our biggest concern was that you might not be able to eat any of the food today. However, it appears these fears were unfounded." explained Chancellor Noe.
"Well, we can consider ourselves lucky then," remarked Admiral Koras'Alay. "Because the food is exceptionally delicious, better than what we had on the fleet. After all, our limited resources meant that our food choices were often limited. I can't remember the last time I had a decent meal like this."
"I also concur," added Admiral Ren'Ilaytic. "The food is probably the best I had. By far this is the best experience I had so far. Can I say how nice this is to have a civilized meal in such a beautiful if not mythical place? It's been so long. I mean, I just, uh, I wanna thank you. Even if we don't end up working together. I really needed this."
"We are working together admiral." interrupted the Chancellor. "Your people have suffered for far too long for a crime you did not commit. This is the least we can do. And now that you have access to a Craftworld you can say bye-bye to all the nutrient paste your people have endured over the last few centuries or so. Consider this as a help from a friend who too had been wronged by them."
"I see," said Admiral Ren.
Before they can continue the waiter walked up to them having been signaled by the Chancellor previously. What was interesting was the fact the Waiter that was currently serving them was a Prothean. That was something Admiral Darien'Xen and perhaps his fellow colleagues had to get used to seeing. The Protheans were the revered ancestors across all of Citadel space and the rest of the galaxy. Thus, it was easy to forget that they too were normal people holding relatively normal jobs and living out their daily lives.
"Is something the matter?" Asked Chancellor Noe to Admiral Darien.
"No, it is just odd seeing a Prothean working in something too mundane. Please forgive, it's just that across the wider galaxy, the Protheans are commonly revered as the great ancestors who gave birth and the rise of modern galactic civilization. Thus, we kinda elevated them to the status of something to revered at."
"I see how interesting," replied Chancellor Noe. "To us, the Protheans are just regular people just trying to survive. Nineteen years after we won our first victory, they have been slowly transitioning themselves back into civilian life as we do. Although from what I can tell you, most Prothean citizens are required to serve in the military for three to four years before being placed into the reserve system in the event of war be drafted quickly again. Other than that they have taken civilian jobs to provide for their families and to pass time."
"Fascinating, it must have been hard for them to come here," remarked Admiral Sharlaya.
"Yes it was, their culture at the time was incompatible with ours, but eventually we both managed to adapt in an effort to coexist. We didn't exactly have much of a choice. Considering both our species were facing extinction at the time. Moreover, their numbers were small when they first arrived in Sol. We had planned for the evacuation of billions of Protheans across the Empire to Sol. Unfortunately, the Reaper advances prevented us from conducting the evacuation leaving us with no choice but to abandon billions to their fate. We only managed to secure a rough number somewhere between eighty-six million to one hundred and two million. Barely even a percentage of their total population before the war. It has somewhat recovered, today its population today is around fifty to eighty billion. But then again, their race had one of the largest numbers of refugees we managed to recover. Some of the races we rescued didn't have numbers that are that high. So in my opinion it was a mixed result in the aftermath of the evacuation attempt." Explained Chancellor Noe.
"I see, that is an interesting history lesson you have given us here. We never knew what it was like to live in those times," replied Admiral Darien.
"You might in the near future." Said the Chancellor. "If the Reapers had given us any indication, their actions against your species can only mean one thing. They are returning problem is we don't know when or how long."
"Then we would have to prepare then. So what do you want us to have to do Chancellor?" asked Admiral Shan.
"It's simple Admirals." Replied Chancellor Noe. "We need hidden eyes and ears across the galaxy. Knowing your race from the first contact package and the codex you have given to us. We have decided to use you as our eyes viewing the galaxy. Your species, given by the vast amount of information you have acquired about the galaxy. The government and the military have considered you to be the best candidate."
"Sounds fair enough. However, what I want to ask you is. Why don't you use your stealth ships or the massive Sentry Array sensors for this matter?" Asked Admiral Darien.
"Good question, as you all know we have access to some, if not the best espionage and counter-espionage systems, equipment, and training in the galaxy. A necessary born from the courtesy of the Reaper's constant usage of Indoctrinated agents within our ranks. For that reason, we have the best sensors, stealth ships, and many more assets at our disposal. However, given the current dynamic, using these systems would be inappropriate in this case. There is only so much our best sensors can glean information from. Thus, we still need physical agents to do the work. And since we haven't made contact with the rest of the galaxy, we intend it to be this stay for a while. Lest we trip off the Reapers to our apparent survival and risk an attack. We had to get somewhat creative, so we decided to have you do this part instead. And once again, I'm sorry we are forcing this on you perhaps against your will."
"I see, but no worries admirals, we have encountered far worse than what you are asking from us," said Admiral Darien. "You gave us a home and a future for the Quarian people. If doing this work will allow us to be one step closer to retaking our home. Then I will gladly take it."
"And so do I," replied Admiral Koras in agreement with Admiral Darien. "No more running, I'm ready to stand and fight for the liberation of my home."
"Then as of now our agreement has been met," said the Chancellor cheerfully. "I expect a good and healthy working relation from now on." Standing up the chancellor raised his glass in preparation to toast. "How about a toast, to our new relations and a brighter future for your race."
"Agreed Chancellor," replied Admiral Darien raising his glass along with his fellow colleagues. "To the alliance and a better future."
And thus, a new alliance between the Quarians and the People of Sol was formed. In time, the Quarians would prove themselves, time and time again as worthy allies to the People of Sol. An alliance that would see a new age for the Quarian people and the people of the galaxy. In time, this alliance would be beneficial to the People of the Galaxy during the second Reaper war.
...
Nineteen months later, the newly christened Craftworld, the Spirit of Rannoch, was ready to depart with its inhabitants and crew of twenty-five million Quarians. It took a while to get the Craftworld ready, but now it was prepared to set sail. During the preparation time, the Quarians had taken the opportunity to dock at one of Sol's massive shipyards. Allowing the Quarians to conduct the necessary repairs and refits turning the once decrepit fleet of ships into new and shining ships, equipped with the advanced technology given by the humans. For now, all the more than fifty thousand ships that were once the Migrant Fleet was docked at the vast dockyards and ports that were found across the Craftworld. Until the moment for them to deploy is required.
So far, most Quarians have settled down into their new home. The interior of the Craftworld itself had more often than not sent many Quarians in shock and amazement. One can't blame them since the interior of the Craftworld was akin to being on a terrestrial planet than an actual spacecraft. This Craftworld in particular was of a standard design meant to hold at least tens of billions of inhabitants within its interior and provide the necessary resources to support them. The Quarian population currently barely even covered a single biodome, to begin with. Thus, allowing the Quarian population to grow after centuries of decline and stagnation. The Craftworld would also allow them to live in peace, as the ship is armed with a variety of weaponry that could potentially take on the entire Turian armada. If the situation gets worse then they can always rely on the Solarians for help. Via their QEC instantaneous communication and several Krasnikov tubes which connects the Craftworld to Sol. Allowing for the rapid deployment of reinforcement no matter the location of the Craftworld.
It was hard to imagine the Quarian people now had all of these advantages at their disposal. But to the Admiralty Board, their task was completed and now they will guide their people to the future. As the Spirit of Rannoch was making the final preparations for departure. The Admiralty was hard at work planning their next course of action for the next few decades. Planned routes were considered, and population growth plans were now in place following the acquisition of Craftworld. The plan would see the Quarian's numbers grow from their meager tens of millions to hundreds of millions within the next few decades and hopefully billions by the end of the century and well into the mid-next century. Moreover, ensuring food stocks are full and plentiful, with hydroponics and vast farmlands that would allow the Quarians to farm and raise livestock to ensure enough food for surplus and trade. To the establishment of nascent industries within the Craftworld to build an economy for the newly, but still under consideration Quarian government. Namely the restoration of the Quarian republic and the formation of a new constitution. To allow for real growth and a new future for the Quarian people.
To the planning of keeping the masquerade. Both the Quarian Admiralty board and the Solar Government knew that eventually, the major powers of the galaxy would discover the Quarian Craftworld. Thus, all efforts were made by the Quarian Admiralty to fabricate a story about the fact they discovered the ship and to ensure that no story, was not about it being a gift by the humans. All Quarians who choose to go on a pilgrimage across the wider galaxy must swear on oath to never betray the Craftworld. If they do then the punishment is death with no exceptions. All of this was done to ensure the secrecy of their benefactors and the consequences were clear if that secret was broken prematurely. Therefore, the Admirals enforce the rule without any real opposition. As most Quarians are thankful to humanity for helping them. As of the present, as the time of the Craftworld departure nears the Crew of the ship began the necessary checks before final departure. As millions of Quarian citizens anxiously waited for the eventuality of the departure of the ship.
There was also a plan to ensure their side of the bargain. Special agents under the disguise of pilgrims will carry out the duties set by them by the Humans. To be their eyes and ears of the galaxy. These agents would scourge the galaxy for any signs of trouble and keep the people of Sol updated on the latest events and news of the wider galaxy. For now, they had only planned for what they had to do initially which was to build the new Quarian nation. There was also another task asked of the people of Sol. That was to create a covert system of Krasnikov tubes leading to the wider galaxy. The people of Sol needed direct access to the galaxy in the event of an emergency. Thus, they asked the Quarians to build the network system without having their own people exposed in the act. Therefore, the Quarians had two tasks they needed to be done in order to secure the trust of their benefactors. A task they were happy to comply with. But for now, they were in the midst of departure and everyone onboard was excited and anxious.
Admiral Darien'Xen was by far particularly anxious to depart right away. He wanted to see what this new ship could do. Being always the active one within the Admiralty, his enthusiasm for riding new ships was well known. Now being on the command bridge of this gargantuan vessel only made the point home as the most unique ship he had gotten his hands on. And now he was excited like a young Quarian waiting to be assigned to a new ship to serve. His fellow admirals themselves based on the few glances he sends their way. They too were just as excited as him for departure. Of course, their time at Sol during the nineteen months of preparations had been one of the countless times happy memories were made for many Quarians including the Admiral himself. The people of Sol now informed of the Quarian's plight did everything they could to help them.
Even going so far as to provide gifts of various kinds for the Quarians and even dragging them into festivals. And even encourage parents to bring their children to one of the many tourist destinations across the Sol system. All of this was their way of showing their hospitality one which the Admiral was very grateful for. As even he found joining the fun when he was off-duty with his family. The same could be said for his colleagues. But after all, the festivity had to end and the Quarians were ready for departure. Just before they left, the Chancellor of Sol-gov on the behalf of the people of Sol. Staged a massive goodbye and farewell celebration that was enjoyed by many. From music, food, and various entertainment. The Quarian was given a hearty sent-off, which they were grateful for. And now the time has come for the day of their eventual departure. The admiral recalls the day of the farewell, as the bridge crew and various engineers and technicians across the Craftworld prepared for launch.
"Sir all crew stations across the Craftworld are reporting green and ready for departure." announce the officer on the bridge, shaking him out of his thoughts.
'R...right." said Admiral Darien. "Have all stations prepare for departure. Have the Ringworld Spacecraft Traffic Control Center notified about our preparations and have them clear us for departure."
"At once admiral." replied the officer.
"So it is finally happening I see," said Admiral Shan'Valay.
"Ha, this ship is amazing," added Admiral Koras'Alay. "I can't wait to see the council's reaction when they find out about our ship."
"We shouldn't be hasty." Admiral Ren'Ilalytic pointed. "We just got this ship, and now we are in the midst of restoring our broken or in this case nothing of an economy and reestablishing a formal government. We should tread with caution for now."
"I agree with Admiral Ren here," answered Admiral Sharlaya'Rafana. "We should wait for a while before sending the Migrant Fleet out of our docks. In that way, we can keep up the masquerade as long as possible while we recover."
"I'll take your suggestion for it," said Admiral Darien. "But for now, let us bask in the magnificence of this ship and its departure."
Nodding the Admiralty Board watch the crew as they are hard at work ensuring the ship's proper departure.
"Spirit of Rannoch this is Ringworld-01 Spacecraft Traffic Control you are green and prepping for departure can you confirm."
"Acknowledge control this is Spirit of Rannoch all systems are green on our end. Permission to depart from the ring, over." said the officer managing the operation of the ship.
"Roger that you are cleared for departure all systems are checked and ready for launch. Releasing docking clamps now."
A stir in the bridge could be heard as the ship docking clamps were released allowing the Craftworld to be free and moving. Slowly the ship's massive thrusters fired up propelling the Craftworld gracefully out of the docking area and into space. Just above the dock area, the Sol-Gov Chancellor Francis Noe and his entourage were observing the day of the launch. They were here to say their goodbyes to the Quarians as they departed Sol for the unknown. As the ship departed from the ring, Chancellor Noe thought to himself, 'Bon voyage friends, someday we will meet again.' he said to himself as the ship slowly left the ports. With him watching the ship gracefully disappearing further and further away into the darkness.
Back on the ship, cheers could be heard as Quarians all around celebrate the successful departure of the ship after so many months of waiting. On the bridge, the officers themselves were cheering. His fellow colleagues were tempted to join in on the fun. However, as the admirals of the Quarian, they had to set standards and showcase their professionalism to their men.
"Control to Spirit of Rannoch, we have reviewed your flight plan, and you have permission to depart. On behalf of humanity, we are glad to ensure the future of your people. This will be our good for you before you embarked on a journey into the unknowns, Bon voyage Quarian may we meet again someday in the future"
"Copy that control this is the Spirit of Rannoch signing out."
The bridge officer turned and looked at Admiral Darien. It was time, the eve of departure was now upon the Quarian people. Admiral Darien stood up from his chair getting the attention of the bridge crew. He looked around and prepared the departure speech he had planned.
"Attention all Quarian on aboard this ship." He begun. "For the last nineteen months, we have waited for this today to come. Nineteen months ago we traveled, far away from the safety of the known galaxy and into the unknown. We were a broken people, looking for new ways to survive this uncaring galaxy. Then finally we met the people of Sol who with their endless generosity gave us for the first time...hope. Understanding our plight and eager to help us they gave us a warm welcome and hospitality, which we for a long time had forgotten to experience. With it, they gifted us a massive ship, the Craftworld, a vessel that will mark a new start for our people."
A cheer erupted throughout the ship as the Quarian people celebrated as a way to express their thanks to the people of Sol. Admiral Darien calmly waited for the cheer to die down before continuing. "Thanks to this, our people now will have the chance to see our children grow in prosperity. We now have a world to live in, despite the fact it is a ship. It is still nevertheless, a world. In the next few weeks, we will be expecting the establishment of a formal government and a new fully functional economy for our race. The first in the centuries after the exodus from our homeworld. As of now, we live as civilized beings, not the scum and suit rats that we are known for in the past. Today we live free from our stigma!"
Another cheer erupted, for so long the Quarian without their government were considered a race of lawless bandits and scums who would roam the galaxy looking for trouble. With the establishment of the Government, the Quarians hope to eventually erase this stigma. Admiral Darien continued on. "And finally, with the new future granted by us from the people of Sol also comes the alliance to retake our homeworld."
The crowd fell silent at his statement. The people by now were well aware of the truth of their circumstances. More than a few wanted nothing more but revenge against the enemy who had wronged them for centuries. Now, there was a chance that they might actually see that happen. Until then, they had to be patient and strike at the right time and moment. "As of now, we are still vulnerable, I understand that you all desire for revenge and to retake our homeworld. But now is not the time for such bold action," he said firmly.
"As you all have seen with the people of Sol. The enemy remains too strong and too powerful for us to fight. We are weak, weakened by the centuries of the exodus. We must rebuild and heal. Only then we can finally take the fight to the enemy and defeat them once and for all. That I swear." continued Admiral Darien, the cheers once again occurred as the Quarians all unanimously support the plan of the Admiral.
"And with that, I issue our first order," announce Admiral Darien. "Helmsman take us out, activate the Interspace drive and follow the flight plan as charted by the navigators to the nearest Krasnikov Tube. From there we will use the network tube to reach the outer frontier of Sol space and then we shall depart into uncharted space. Going off once more into the great unknown."
"Aye Aye, Admiral carrying out orders." replied the Helmsman. "Spooling up Interspace drive system, navigational coordinates lock-on target, all systems are operating as expected."
Admiral Darien sat back on his chair as the ship now spooled up its Interspace drive for the long journey into unknown space far away from the reaches of the known galaxy and the Sol space. As the gradual hum and rumble of the ship's Interspace drive increase, in anticipation of activating the jump. The admiral was left to ponder his thoughts. As of today, the Quarian shall enter a new chapter in their history. For good or worse, only time would tell. They planned a massive trip that would see their journey through uncharted space where no man or species had gone before. It was a risky maneuver, to which both the admiral and the representatives of Sol's military and government had agreed upon. But then again the Quarians were used to that kind of potential danger.
Which Gives them the thrill of the journey and a sense of purpose and determination. This is why many of the Quarian didn't feel too much concern when the trip plan was revealed to the wider public. As the ship was nearing the time of the jump. The admiral had one thought to himself, 'well this is it, a new future begins.' as the massive Craftworld suddenly jumped away onwards to a destination unknown.
A/N:
And finally, this chapter is now completed.
I had fun writing this chapter showing the relations of both sides as the Quarian are introduced to life in Sol along with their hospitality. And finally, the Quarians have journeyed off into the galaxy to rebuild and prepare for the inevitable confrontation with the enemy aka the Reapers. Of course, this would mean building a nation-state and a fully functioning economy and growing out the population. We shall see the status of these efforts as the story progresses further.
Now before anyone can start bashing. As you can see from the exchange between Rael'Zorah and Chief engineer Adams. The Sol Force military seemed to have been demobilized. Which is weird right, yes and no I'll explain. You see Chief engineer Adams only said mothballed not decommissioned, what this meant is that all ships that Sol Force currently has in position are all put in storage and are constantly maintained until further notice. The reason for this is because after the end of the War. Sol-Gov needed to make some hard choices, and some had real dilemmas that they had to consider.
One is how to repair the broken economy. After centuries of war had reduced almost reduced the former economic power of Sol-Gov before the war and siege to the verge of a collapse or a recession. Therefore they made the choice to currently focus on salvaging what is left of the economy and rebuild from there. Once Sol-Gov believes it has a sufficiently strong economy. Then it will begin to refocus back on the Military. For now, the economy and restoring lively hood and prosperity take the top priority.
Also to note, the Solar Government themselves don't actually know how much time they had traveled to the future. Thus, they don't exactly have a direct timeline of when the Reaper's next cycle will begin. It could be tomorrow, it could be in decades, centuries, to even a millennium. Thus, the People of Sol were fairly certain that they were safe. For now, until the Quarian arrived and gave them a full view and timeline they can work on it. And because of that, the initial plan slow and steady approach had been thrown out the window for a more favorable fast rapid militarization in preparation for the Reaper's return in the next few decades or the turn of the century.
And now, as a closing statement. It does really help when the readers enjoy the story. As a writer, it makes me happy to see the Readers enjoying this work. I hope to have more chapters coming out as soon as possible. As of now, I demand that you all be patient.
Anyways, thanks for supporting
And I will see you all in the next chapter.
