11111
Accessing Special Tasks Group File Archive...
Access successful.
Please search for a file.
Searching...
File located. Clearance level required- BASIC
Password Required
P*******1
Password Accepted.
Opening File...
Operation Bronze
In accordance with standard first contact protocols (See Operation Blue, Operation Pink, Operation Grey and so on) the Special Tasks Group, henceforth referred to as STG, commenced information retrieval and threat assessment of the newly discovered species Humanity. The initial plan called for hacking into Human cyberspace, locally known as the 'Internet'. While breaking into their systems was, as one senior analyst glibly put it 'so easy a Vorcha could've done it' (technical details on Operation restricted) the sheer volume of data, built up from over a century of constant use with little or no centralised oversight meant that useful or current information was well hidden behind a mountain of speculations, opinions, videos of human pets, pornography and otherwise useless information. Greater context was required.
Following this assessment members of the government and STG (Names Censored) decided a more direct approach was required; a visitation of the human home world.
Fortunately, the atmosphere of 'Earth', as the Humans called it, proved perfectly compatible with our own people and most of our technology. Various ideas on how to investigate the humans were suggested. Surveillance equipment disguised as indigenous wildlife, in particular insect or avian varieties was the most popular and feasible option. This option however was still limited by our own incomplete knowledge of the local ecosystem, something which had not been considered an information priority up to that point and could have easily expose our investigation.
A more radical suggestion came from (Identity protected) and the R&D division. The blueprints draw up for a 'human suit' would allow an agent, albeit one of diminutive stature, to move among the humans as one of their own in a self-contained vehicle. Unfortunately, the cost assessment, ongoing technical and comfort issues combined with lack of information regarding human behaviour and social graces meant that the idea was quickly rejected. (Identity protected) had to be sedated on being informed of the decision.
The solution to these challenges surprisingly came from humanity itself. A number of human governments (in the fact that there was more than a one was a matter of deep interest) chose to set up Extraterrestrial Tourist Zones or E.T Zones as they became more commonly known, shortly after the conclusion of the Relay 314 incident/First Contact War. The STG leadership decided that an agent would be sent in under cover of plain sight. To maintain the illusion and limit the risks of sensitive information falling into unknown hands a relatively junior operative was sent in posing as a student from Sur'kesh University. The following is his testimonial.
Operation Log- Day One
Operative Solus reporting. Have successfully landed on Human Home world, some signs of heavy security on shuttle and at Roswell Landing Site but seemed to be general rather than hunting down specific threats. Also, seemed to be observing other Humans as often as my fellow passengers and myself why? Fear of anti alien backlash or merely paranoia? Not sure, fortunately all equipment for surveillance and self-defence got through Human security without problems, prepared for any eventuality.
Flight crew of shuttle welcomed us aboard, seemed to be as they appeared. Professional in their manner and very polite, although some also distracted by Asari passengers. Appears humans are susceptible to Asari, will investigate further should opportunity present itself.
Should note that while this is personal first contact with Humans have encountered the species indirectly. Previous contact limited to cultural festival held on Citadel. Saw one of their films, designed to unnerve viewers. Despite questionable biology of the 'Alien' use of fear still worked effectively on some audience members. Several theories why Humans create media designed to scare; will attempt to find conclusive evidence.
Flight comfortable, food and drink provided on board, scanned thoroughly, no sign of tampering or poisoning. Drink alcoholic in nature, mixture called 'Cocktail', name origin unknown. Particular cocktail blend given was called a 'Pina Colada', strange name but very pleasant, will attempt to steal recipe. Food mixture of plant and animal with smaller plants added for flavour. Enquired what the ingredients were, told meat was aquatic in origin known locally as Salmon. Apparently considered a relatively upmarket foodstuff, humans seem eager to be welcoming, although the steward said he would only give the meal four out of five. When I asked how a meal could be assessed numerically he looked confused, at least believed it was confusion, as though as he had never thought about it, curious.
Once landed decided that disguise too formal, needed to blend in more. Found out from nearby merchant Human tourists wear 'Hawaiian shirts'. These garments, designed to cover torso and upper arms have very colourful, plant life patterns on them and helps distinguish Humans on holiday from those who are not. Bought blue and green one, seemed appropriate for Earth. Price seemed reasonable though the use of physical money made me oddly reluctant to see it bartered away, cyber money far easier to spend without concern, though this may just be personal reaction.
Unfortunately attempt to blend in seemed to have opposite effect on Humans, perhaps Salarian in local costume too much of a contrast? Either way lesson learned. Reverted back to standard clothes, with hindsight Human merchant may not have been best source of information.
Will continue report from Hotel.
Assessment-
Although relieved that operative had arrived safely and undetected handlers felt it necessary to send a curt reminder to Agent Solus that he was supposed to be posing as tourist, not actually being one.
11111