Well, I am back with another chapter! Sorry it's taken so long, work is getting worse with fall and the holidays. Manager transferred, new guy is slow…leads to 60 hour work weeks which means I'm usually too tired to write. Plus, I still try to do other activities in my life. But with the coming fall, rain, and shit weather I'll be able to stay in more and hammer away.
Still, hope you all enjoy reading!
Chapter 22: Election Time
Sera, Gerrenhalt. 2nd of Bloom, 426 A.E.
Relatively small compared to many cities on the Seran homeworld, Gerrenhalt's population barely rose to two hundred thousand. Sprawled out along the curvature of a large lake, many of the taller buildings were a neo-gothic gray as they supported stone spires, decorated facade work, and narrow windows modeled after pendulum era structures.
Of course, modern homes, apartments, and condos stood among the dour structures, their glass and steel shimmering as the star of Onyx finally peeked out from the clouds above.
To the south, a winding river lined with outlaying farms and minor industrial businesses thrived, the flowing body of water the same that cut through the ruins of Old Gerrenhalt further south.
Half a mile from the bustling crowds of downtown, a squat, normal looking structure of six stories stood at the corner of an intersection. A mildly successful law firm for civil cases, Hagrove Law employed nearly thirty staff to deal with neighbor disputes, divorce on rare occasions, and property inheritance.
Of course, none of the civilians knew about the secret room used by the D.N.I. at the far end of the basement behind a false wall.
A lone agent occupied the room, its drab, grey walls occupying the same space as a standard office. One wall was lined with a computer station, the light keys plain and dark as the program scanned and rescanned all available data.
Meanwhile, Agent Cliff slowly ate a warmed ration as he watched an ancient Terran movie on a small vid screen.
"So, I see you have found my lair, Mr. Bond"
"Indeed Doctor No. Your plans will be halted today" The handsome, tuxedoed man pointed a small gun, his smile flashing inside the secret base as multiple henchmen surrounded the hero.
Agent Cliff barely listened, the premise ridiculous. "There is no way any spy would do any of this stuff. Flashy cars, beautiful women at every corner, blowing up facilities and endless henchmen…incomprehensible" Slowly shaking his head, Cliff went back to watching, still finding the old spy tale entertaining at least.
Finishing his meal after another ten minutes, the very plain, black haired man would never be compared to the ancient Sean Connery of Terra. His purpose was to be forgettable…to simply blend into the background while working in the field.
Something that would no doubt pay off if Doctor Jea Pi'tol ever actually saw him again. The voice modulator had helped immensely, and the fact he kept in the shadows would ensure he could walk right past the Asari scientist and she would be none the wiser.
The computer console flashed a single red light, indicating the latest session of data had been scoured over.
Agent Cliff moved to the console, taking a hasty seat as he began to review the compiled visual and audio data from the research team.
He watched the entirety of the events, switching angles between numerous people to try and find some fresh intelligence.
Pursing his lips in a low scowl in the final minutes as the team fled from the Serapedes and Heart Leeches, Cliff knew what it meant.
"Inconclusive"
There simply was no additional data on what the Salarian's had done. They simply could have been taking locust relics before things went bad. A few old weapons or pieces of locust armor were hardly worth worrying about.
But Agent Cliff didn't trust the Salarians, at least their government and STG. They not only breeched Coalition borders after the war in a blatant act of espionage, but they've been known to support illegal genetic research, fund splinter groups, assassinate those with vital information. Deep down, he knew that they got those scientists to assist somehow. Through bribery, threat, or simple patriotism, he couldn't say.
"Give them the right tools, a few scientist's with no moral code, and a secure facility and they could revive the locust" A harrowing thought to the agent because he knew that if Seran genetic research could achieve the same nightmarish goal, so could those slimy salamanders.
That was the precise reason why Seran genetic research was simply limited to extending lifespans, curing abnormalities in the womb, and choosing vibrant hair colors. Anything else would be far too dangerous.
But if the STG viewed the COG as dangerous, which Cliff was positive they did, those aliens would be looking for an edge and the locust were the traditional enemies of all Serans.
Knowing he needed more information, Agent Cliff wrote up a proposal to include a civilian asset. Possibly a geologist or botanist. Infiltrating the Council research team would be relatively easy for a civilian, especially one not connected to the military or government. Plus, he was positive the Asari would consider it a great way to interact with a native.
Still, someone with firearms training would be preferred. After all, most Serans did have a working knowledge of self defense so it would actually be problematic to have somebody not able to use a rifle.
"The Turians on site may have a few suspicions, but most have a favorable view of our species. Possible contract with the aliens? If they hired the asset, that would eliminate any suspicion seeing as they would conduct their own background checks" Thinking through his reasoning, the man continued to type in the hidden room.
Agent Cliff smiled, finding the idea of potential enemies paying a third party to spy on them amusing. Typing rapidly, he sent off his full report, his theories of Salarian intent regarding the possible revival of the locust, and next steps to find viable evidence.
Marking it High Priority, the D.N.I. agent knew that the upper echelons of government would want to know of such a risk from an alien neighbor.
"By the Allfathers…what if those bastards come back and manage to get starships?" The horrid thought was rapidly included in the report. After all, he seriously doubted that if the STG had done this, that they could contain those monsters for long.
The last thing the COG needed was a revived locust race flying around in warships.
Hitting send at last, the report flew among secured channels to his superiors, Agent Cliff knowing that any mention of their greatest enemy would be noticed. Returning his gaze to the main screen, Cliff then read through a few data packets, nothing too clandestine or outrageous.
Essentially, he was to continue his cover for the foreseeable future.
Agent Cliff then stood up to adorn his civilian attire of a simple custodian and maintenance worker. After all, the law office above him knew his identity as Derek Morr. A simple man with a simple life that kept the building clean and in working order.
Making sure the passage beyond was clear of civilians, Agent Cliff lowered the hard light wall with a simple voice command. Reactivating it a moment later, he moved to the storage closet down the hall, grabbing a mop and bucket to begin the task of cleaning the main lobby's floor.
Vetus System, Gilead, 10th of Bloom, 426 A.E.
Fragments of shattered asteroids and tumbling rocks hung in a loose orbit around the plant of Gilead, its brown and ruddy surface a far cry from the blue waters and clear skies of Elysium further in system.
Home to barely three hundred colonists, the local inhabitants had found riches in mining the planet's heavy nickel deposits despite the deadly cold surface, lack of air, and minor gravity field.
But…John Shepard didn't have time to admire the sights or watch the tiny dwarf world turn above him. No, his concentration was taking down the targets across the tumbling rock barely half a mile wide and long.
His training had continued of course, even after his transfer to Elysium and its garrison. Having already achieved his second and third ranks for combat diving and close quarters combat, John was now training his body and reflexes in a zero-G environment.
Hence, the stroll along the pockmarked and craggy surface of Asteroid G-312 as it slowly rotated away from the view of Gilead into the darkness.
John slowly panned his vision, his steps slow and purposeful among the micro gravity while the shadows and inky blackness of each crater and crag seemed to get darker.
There was a glint of light thirty yards away, the momentary sparkle coming from a high outcropping of brutalized rock.
Shepard immediately raised his Avenger rifle, firing a short burst of light rounds at the target.
It was destroyed, the man's natural accuracy with a firearm ensuring the target didn't survive.
Moving on, John kept his footing careful as his worked around a deep fissure, the gash a maze of broken shards and sharp angles leading into the asteroid. For a moment, he looked upward, identifying the small support craft keeping watch on his training session. Hovering a mere mile above, the minor crew's only job was to retrieve him if he flew off into space or some unforeseen injury.
Obviously, John Shepard wouldn't let that happen today.
He fired again, the bursts of mass accelerated light slewing through the airless void to the next target that appeared during the rotation and tumble of this broken rock. Rushing in a low gait toward the next outcropping, John could hear his own breathing of exertion. Rising from behind cover with a minimal bounce of his steps, he fired at the next distant target.
It was another hit, the military man giving a minimal grin at the successful targeting. Moving forward, John almost tripped, the staggering of his steps starting to push him away from the tumbling rock drifting through space. His right hand immediately jumped to his jump pack controls, Shepard unleashing a few spurts of fuel, bringing him back toward the mass below.
"Careful John. Even with the ship overhead, this is micro gravity" Mentally scolding himself for the near failure of the exercise, John Shepard moved to the next target as the rusting red glow of Gilead slid into view above.
Several hours later, John Shepard found himself at one of the bars among the bustling sprawl of Illyria, the planetary capital of Elysium. Settled on the banks of one of the great rivers that cut across the continent, Illyria also had the great fortune of being under the gaze of a vast, snow capped mountain range to the north, giving the city another sense of beauty.
With shimmering white spires, clean sidewalks and a vast representation of all corners of humanity, the capital was the picturesque epitome of the Alliance colonies.
Add to that the ever present naval forces in constant patrol within the surrounding systems and the increase of ground forces, Elysium was probably one of the most fortified systems in Alliance space. A necessary precaution since the Batarian civil war continued to rage just beyond the borders a few light years away.
The last thing this colony needed was a raid conducted by some power mad warlord looking for slaves and wealth.
"It would be madness for the Star Belt Nation to attack the Alliance. They're busy fighting the old Hegemony" Thinking of the military situation, Shepard knew that any pirate attack would be dealt with quickly and harshly.
"Here you go, handsome" the blonde waitress said with a flirty smile and wink. Setting down the hefty lunch of grilled chicken, mashed potatoes and a mug of beer, the attractive woman walked away to the next table.
Figuring he had earned a small reward for…not failing his recent zero-g excursion, Shepard enjoyed the aroma of chicken and gravy for a few precious moments among the afternoon throng of customers.
He shrugged, figuring they were drawn to the growing industries and commerce of Elysium. Picking up his knife and fork, John took his first bite as he turned his attention to one of the many video screens hanging around the bar portraying galactic events.
A Turian and Salarian were talking, the program from the Citadel. Both appeared well dressed, at least for their species. The low table held two mugs of beverage, centered between the two as the visual feed played.
"All I'm saying Zeprin, is that the current election cycle is already locked between Diaz and Ghenhurst. Chairman Diaz is well known, but Ghenhurst would be far more favorable to trade with the Council"
"Very true, Bruntillus, but from a historical perspective, upsets do happen. The Green party may be the least likely to win the election, but It's not guaranteed. I have several friends working at the Salarian Embassy on Sera. They've identified at least a dozen systems, including the world of Ephyra leaning toward the Green party during the next voting cycle"
Bruntillus rapidly shook his head, the Turian disagreeing. "You can't be serious. They have no chance. Especially with the war barely a few years old. Here, watch this political ad that's running in the Coalition"
For a moment, the talking show went black before a fresh slew of information played.
A red headed man stood in front of a large COG flag, his smile dazzling before he started his speech. "As you all know, The Green Party is dedicated to ensuring stable, healthy environments not only in the Coalition, but among Terran worlds as well. It is no secret that Terra is overpopulated and polluted, the dire effects of centuries of industrialization, fossil fuels and failure to act pushing the planet toward the brink" Raising a hand, the man smiled, the flag still fluttering among somber music. "I realize many of my ideas are unpopular. But! As Serans, it is our duty as the elder branch of humanity to guide our younger galactic cousins into a balance of stability, life and prosperity. So whe—"
"Enough of that crap" The blonde waitress grumbled, her slender hand holding a small remote as she turned the channel to some show about two Salarians fishing. Reverting to her customary smile, she walked off, letting the patrons enjoy their drinks and meals without the constant reminder of the Coalition elections.
John Sheppard had to agree with the woman's sentiment. Diaz may be a cold hearted bitch and Ghenhurst a middle man for trade and exploration. But Governor Alvren Tilmston? Most of the galaxy already knew he would not become the next chairman of the COG. He may be a competent Governor of the Ephyra System and its few million inhabitants, but it was starting to show he simply did not have the foresight to lead the entirety of the COG.
"The Green Party may have implemented excellent laws during the first wave of colonization for the Coalition, but that was over two hundred years ago. Leaving a full third of every garden world free from development is more than enough. But Tilmston? I have no doubt it's a long term goal of moving into the Alliance. An invasion of technology…not weapons. Fortunately for the Alliance, most Serans have no desire to fund such expenses"
Shepard took another bite of chicken, the meat juicy and flavorful. He really had nothing against Serans. Yes, they made assumptions, thinking his species didn't have the strength nor discipline. But the same could be said about them. Many humans of Earth saw them as warmongering fascists despite the fact first contact occurred during a terrible conflict.
At least the Serans would be opening up the Pandora colony to the galaxy, a promising sign that they were slowly trying to understand and accept other cultures. Yes, it may be limited, but to Shepard, a good first step.
"Still, it's nearly all former soldiers on that planet and their families. Civilians might have a hard time dealing with men and women who fought in the CAG during the war not to mention cultural differences"
John shrugged, taking a small sip of his beer. Pandora nor the Coalition was his problem unless they decided to declare war against the Alliance.
He was quite content to continue his training and making sure Elysium stayed safe and secure from all threats.
Pylos Nebula, Kriseroi System 19th of Bloom, 426 A.E.
Rapidly passing through the Mass Relay in the nearby Nariph System the previous day, D.S.L. naval and infantry forces rapidly secured the lone refueling depot and minor trade hub with barely a struggle. Ensuring the Mass Relay was secured with the separation a minor destroyer screen, the main invasion force lit their engines and jumped to FTL.
Entering the outskirts of Kriseroi a mere hour ago, the naval force numbering one hundred forty warships, including two cruisers burned past the desolate and silent gas giants of the outer system.
Under the command of the rapidly promoted Admiral Gris'goth, the middle aged Batarian with a skin tone of pale green stood at his vessels holo-table, his four eyes scrutinizing the deployment of his forces. Spread out in a wide, arrow like wedge at multiple levels of elevation, his warships had already surged past the pale blue gas giant of Tenoth.
There was an abandoned refinery there, but judging by the scans, it had been derelict for years.
Casting a momentary gaze around his bridge, Gris'goth felt a small amount of pride. All these Batarians were here because of hard work, dedication, and skill. Not because they were some rich merchant's cousin or related to an officer.
True merit at work, just like himself.
The holo table updated sensor data with a flourish nearly at the same moment the crewman at sensors stirred.
"Sir, we've detected the remaining pirate force around the second planet, Theonax"
"Excellent. We will destroy them then begin the invasion" Grousing out his command with a harsh tone, Gris'goth had no illusions. He had overwhelming force against the rabble that had attacked them a month ago at Lorek. Now, they were returning the favor.
He knew it was folly to think so, but the Admiral could have sworn his ships increased in speed for the coming hunt.
Burning across the void toward the inner system, the star was a pulse of yellow, its burning core an engine of nuclear fusion that would no doubt be burning long after he became dust.
"Split the attack into three forces. I want none to escape" Giving the order, Gres'goth studied the holo map, now indicating the second planet Theonax and nearly twenty vessels in dire red compared to his ships identified in blue. Hanging in near orbit of the green and blue planet covered in water and ammonia hydrates, the freezing world would hardly be called hospitable.
The pirates charged in a mass of ships. Either in bravery or stupidity, the outlaws preferred death over surrender, and the D.S.L. navy would oblige.
His three pronged attack was hardly necessary as his forward destroyers ripped into the obsolete vessels, their M.A.C. shells pounding down flimsy shields and hulls in dire need of replacement. In the first salvo, twelve brigand ships broke apart or became sundered, air leaking corpses that spilled bodies into the void.
The remaining pirates fired back of course, an undisciplined stagger of shells that either missed or simply flared against the more efficient shields of his vessels.
It was over in a matter of minutes, leaving twenty tumbling wrecks and floating flotsam over the greenish blue world of Theonax.
"Inform the infantry transports they may begin their offensive. Standard defensive formation" Taking his seat after the brief battle, Gres'goth was satisfied with the outcome.
"Yes sir"
Thinking for a moment, Gres'goth turned to the crewman at sensors. "I want an orbital scan of the planet for possible resources. Current information is limited from the initial survey eighty years ago"
"Sir" striking several glowing keys, the cruiser in high orbit began the scans even as the troop transport slid through the atmosphere toward the frozen world below and the subterranean pirate base nestled among several high peaks.
Private Ja'ton waited in a stacked up line against the wall of the exposed pirate bunker, his breathing heavy behind the helmet. Shifting his feet, his boots crunched frozen water ice as the freezing atmosphere flaked down a fresh blanket of snow.
Even if he was stupid enough to remove his helmet to breathe in the viable oxygen, he would freeze to death first as the temperature hovered around negative seventy standard.
A recent recruit that had been basically a serf in the Hegemony, Ja'ton had joined the infantry for the new Batarian Democracy finding the idea of advancement through merit a favorable idea. Trained for twelve weeks, his last few had been under the guide of Klor'vian advisors, the Amphibians going through the uses of the Lancer Mk. III and the melded armor based on Coalition designs. Fitted with a standard infantry kinetic barrier and fully sealed against hazards, the Gear armor was heavy, something that Ja'ton felt a Krogan would wear.
"Hell, the Krogan do wear it. I hear they love Coalition gear"
Gripping the lancer rifle tighter, he kept it pointed toward the ground as the hacker worked the controls for the hanger door. Yes, it used chemical ballistics, but it was robust, heavy and in his opinion, a brutal rifle with that chainsaw bayonet.
Ja'ton found it slightly amusing that Seran equipment was now helping Batarians fight among themselves, especially after the Toads had stolen the design during the war.
The universe really was strange.
"We're in!" The tech trooper yelled through the comms, his omni-tool finishing the hacking as he stood away from the exterior console.
Already, the airlock door was lifting upwards, giving the first two companies access into the base.
Ja'ton had no illusions that the twelve hundred troops securing this main base and outer minor structures in the region were more than enough to crush these pirates and seize the entire star system for Lorek.
He even heard that the first planet, Neidus was partially habitable despite being tidally locked.
But then the airlock cycled, and the Batarian troops stormed into the main hangar under a heavy fire. Flashes of searing blue bolts pulsed, the slivers of accelerated metals slewing through the air as the pirates took defensive positions among the supporting pillars of the large hangar.
An upper observation deck bristled near the main control room of the hanger near the back elevator, the shouting defenders laying down hell from the superior height. Two pintle mounted machine guns flared with pulses of blue light, the slivers of mass crisscrossing the expansive hanger against the charging Lorek troops. Burning through a soldier next to Ja'ton as the novice ran toward the first place of available cover, the Batarian trooper screamed as his armor and barriers failed to stop no less than eight horrid shafts of laser light.
Two more were killed from the bolts of machine gun light, their bodies nearly cut in half.
Ja'ton scrambled toward a low blast wall, crowded with several other soldiers on the right hand side of the hanger.
"Fire your weapon, soldier! We're fighting for the future of our species!" Briefly popping up, Sergeant Hin'trop fired at a pirate hiding behind one of the nearby pillars. The bullets sparked off the large structural support, but the Batarian was already taking cover as more slewing pulses of light burned above his head.
Ja'ton fired, barely exposing himself to the maelstrom of laser light and cracking bullets sundering the air. Retaking cover, he had no idea if he hit anything or anyone.
Laser light burned above his head by inches, making the young Batarian scrunch up.
Another soldier screamed, the Lorekian trooper having been caught in the open and cut down by more heavy laser light from the upper walkway.
A Batarian crouched on a knee toward the center, his shoulder supporting a large launcher. A moment later, a rocket flew toward one of the machine gunners. Impacting in a mere eye blink, the explosion ripped apart the strongpoint, diminishing the pirate's defenses as pieces of bodies flew among dying screams.
"GO! Up those stairs and kill those bastards!" Leading the way toward the right hand wall and connecting stairwell, Sergeant Hin'trop shot down a pirate as troops followed in a mass.
Ja'ton followed, not wanting to be considered a coward or failing his duties. Following his Sergeant in a staggard march up the enclosed stairwell, the young male kept his lancer rifle pointed toward his front.
A pirate appeared at the top of the stairs, the burning flash of light missing Ja'ton by a mere inch. Instinctively reacting, Private Ja'ton put six rounds center mass, the heavy bullet enough to bypass the pirate's personal shield and armor.
He died spluttering, choking on blood as the Lorek troops moved quickly toward the upper deck. Reaching the upper floor, Ja'ton immediately fired toward a recessed alcove set into the wall, the pirate within taking a short burst to the neck and head. Blood and gore splattering the second defender of the alcove, the pirate screamed in fury and defiance, laying down a heavy staccato of laser fire against the invaders.
Two pulses smashed against Ja'ton's shields, the warning cry of failing spurning him into cover behind some crates stacked in the elevated hallway.
"Keep attacking! These fools dared to attack our new democracy!" Hin'trop yelled out as he shot that defender, crippling the four eyed pirate who fell with a wail. Rushing forward, the Sergeant flipped the switch for the chainsaw bayonet, plunging it into the gasping pirate's chest.
Gore and ichor sprayed the Sergeants boots among horrid screams, the pirate dying a violent death.
Ja'ton gulped as his barriers recharged, the young trooper staying low among the surging charge of his comrades continuing the battle.
"I expect you to use this weapon to kill the enemies of Lorek. Our democracy will have no mercy against this pirate filth" Hin'trop said in a low voice, his face plate partially hidden by flecks of gore.
"Y..yes sir!" Rejoining the fight, Ja'ton pushed forward with the company against the fledgling and diminishing enemy fire.
Outnumbered nearly six to one, the pirates really didn't have a chance. Most died where they stood, with only a small fraction falling back to the bowels of the base via the main elevator.
In all, the battle was over within two hours, resulting in the elimination of the scourge and expansion of Lorek's territory to encompass the Kriseroi System.
Belpharus System, 23rd of Bloom, 426 A.E.
The purple oceans of Belpharus were a stunning view from high orbit, the magnesium heavy bodies of water mixing in the swaths of green forests and abundant life of the garden moon. Slowly turning toward the nightward side, the planetary capital of Embry twinkled with urban lights, its sprawl hugging the equatorial coast of the Belphin continent.
Panning her gaze toward the rust colored gas giant, Izabel Diaz had to admit the view was stunning among the backdrop of stars.
Of course, the view from the ground was nearly as serene, something she could attest to after her week long stop during her campaign.
Lifting the tumbler of Seran whiskey, the leader of the Coalition just enjoyed the drink and view in her private room on the Blowback.
She knew an overwhelming victory in this system was a long shot. The outlaying islands supported Tilmston while the commercial sectors were torn between herself and Ghenhurst. Current polls did place Embry in her camp, but a large band of cites on the Western continent were definitely for Ghenhurst and the promise of expanding trade and tourism.
Diaz had no doubt that Belpharus would be a sought after tourist destination for the galaxy, just like Azura or New Vectes.
Taking another sip of whiskey, Izabel scowled. "Ghenhurst does have the capability to lead our species, but the massive implementation of trade is dangerous"
Sighing, she finished the glass and set it down at her desk near the panning window. "At least Tilmston has no chance. He should've just stayed on Ephyra" Sitting down a moment later, she opened up her incoming files on the computer. Granted, most of the administrative work went to mid level staff or even the ministers back on Sera, but she was the Chairman.
Some issues needed her approval, no matter how busy she was running around the Coalition.
She opened the first file, its status marked as 'Urgent-Classified' from the director of the D.N.I.
Reading the report quickly, Chairman Diaz had to re-read the entire thing just to make sure.
"Are the Salarians insane?!" Shouting from the information and reasoning, Izabel couldn't see why anyone would want to bring back the Locust. Taking a deep breath, she read the details, finding that it was currently a theory and evidence was lacking.
"Madness. Utter madness" Standing up, she needed another drink as the possibility of an old enemy returning reared its head. Pouring more amber liquid into her tumbler, it burned as anger grew.
"Damn…damn fools! Are they trying to control them? To make a client race to wage war on us, what!?" Gulping down more of the alcohol, the first thing Diaz wanted was to announce the Salarians treachery to her people's hospitality. It would most likely doom Ghenhurst's campaign.
About to finish off the rest of the booze, Izabel stared out the window, allowing her anger to calm as the Blowback turned in the void, heading beyond the planet's gravity well for the next jump to CS-101, a mining colony ten light years away.
"No…We don't have actual evidence of them doing anything aside from being slow to run from the creatures of the Hollow. Announcing we know they might have done something will only result in either denial or destruction of evidence. After all, the Salarians aren't afraid to dispose of agents for gain" Frowning, Izabel also had to think of the political implications. Ghenhurst would accuse her of simply fear-mongering and the Council would no doubt be slow on the investigation, if any.
While she was relatively sure the Turians and Asari would condemn the act, the simple fact was that those three species shared an alliance for centuries.
Even a military strike would be out of the question for now, at least without concrete evidence.
She would not drag the Coalition into a new war with the great galactic powers without proof.
Returning to her computer after a few more minutes of restless thought, she sent a reply to the D.N.I. director, giving him approval to follow all paths of investigation, including the development of stealth vessels.
The next few reports were about reconstruction efforts and estimated costs, something that would no doubt take years and endless toil.
Reading the last report about the ongoing Batarian Civil War, Izabel found it a minor concern as she gave a wide yawn.
Belpharus had been exhausting, and she was finally feeling it after days of speeches, touring several bases, factories, and communities across the beautiful moon.
The flow of blues and purples beyond the window were barely noticed by the Chairman, her fatigue pushing her to bed as the Blowback continued to her next stop, even if it was a minor one.
Beta Sarfuth System 15th of Reap, 426 A.E.
Dorren Ghenhurst had never been to Beta Sarfuth, but he had to admit, the planet was a tropical beauty. Lush rainforests, sprawling archipelago chains with rich coral reefs feeding the oceans of this world and vibrant life covered the colony.
If he had time, the politician would have been happy to enjoy a dive among several of the islands.
Instead, he stood in his hotel room, looking outward at the sprawl of Denava, the planetary capital.
Having been founded on the subcontinent of Berra along the equator, the city was a wide crescent of urban planning, hugging the coast while towering mountains stood to the East and North. Bisected through the middle by a river, the flowing water then fed into the ocean.
He had no doubt that increased tourism and commerce would benefit the world, especially from the Asari and Terrans.
Selected as the location for the second debate, Denava wasn't strongly favored by any party, which would allow for a more level playing field. After all, New Ephyra was a N.I. party stronghold politically, and Tilmston's homeworld of Ephyra was a Green Party bastion. Beta Sarfuth was quite balanced among the three, making it an easy choice.
Plus, as observed earlier, it was a beautifully lush planet.
Opening the balcony door with drink in hand, he breathed in the rich air before looking upwards toward the darkening sky. The shattered moon hung up there, along with the ring of rocks that circled this healthy world.
Obviously, the Hammer of Dawn defenses tracked any asteroids or fragments that approached the gravity well, ensuring a rapid destruction of the threat.
"I need to defeat Diaz. We cannot simply hide behind our borders and perceive everybody as a threat. This world is too beautiful and its citizens too hard working" Taking a sip of the blue tinted alcohol, Dorren enjoyed the view, his gaze falling upon the bustling downtown of skyscrapers and condominium as their lights began to blaze a rainbow of neon that lined the river.
Further west, the main freeway passed the mountains, linking to Sarfan City and its multiple logging industries.
A knock came from his door, prompting Darren to step back inside his hotel room.
"Come in"
Taking a seat at the L-shaped couch in the corner, he eyed Danielle Brenheimer walk in, her blue hair once again in a tight ponytail that went well with her clothing. Clutching her personal data pad, she sat down along the main length of the couch.
"Dorren. I'd like to go over the main points of your candidacy before the final debate tomorrow"
Dorren waved her off, taking another small drink of his blue tinted alcohol. Leaning back against the couch, warm air wafted in through the open patio of this twentieth story room.
"That's fine, Dani. But how are the polls looking?"
Typing rapidly, Danielle brought up the latest estimates. "Tilmston is trailing badly at eighteen percent. His proposed mandates of assisting the Terrans are vastly unpopular. It would be expensive, time consuming and brings no benefit to the Coalition" Scrolling, she brought up the next page on her tablet. "Diaz is sitting at forty three percent of the possible vote. Her stance of a strong navy, increased industrial output and security of the borders are vastly popular, especially among systems ravaged by war"
"Where do I stand currently?"
"Thirty five percent. You tanked at Reach like I warned, but several of the border systems with the Asari Republics see increased commerce and trade as beneficial to our species. Your continued support of the military helps too. Unfortunately, that won't play as well here on Beta Sarfuth. It may be near the southern border of the Coalition, but its primarily unexplored systems, pirates, or unknowns beyond our territory"
"Just wilderness and bandits to our south?"
"Pandora is further South-West and draws significant attention from the Council and ourselves, but yes, barely thirty light years beyond this system and its vastly unexplored"
Dorren gave a light smile, taking another small sip. "Ill have to change that after the election. Surveying would only benefit the Coalition and could potentially open up new trade revenue"
"The polls are still favoring Diaz, sir"
Dorren finished the drink, setting the glass down on the nearby coffee table. "Polls aren't everything. I still have several months to win, and I know that the citizens will vote for economic stability and development over warships and fear-mongering"
Dani pursed her lips, not sharing her boss's faith. The war had been nasty, and Diaz was a very capable politician. She may be brash, but the Chairman had turned out to be an excellent war leader. "We just have to show our fellow citizens the time for war is over. Peace and reconstruction will suit us in the long run"
"Very well. Now we really must go over your ideas once more"
"Oh…alright" Leaning back, the two worked on the finer points of the coming debate until the local time hit midnight, prompting the assistant to leave for the night.
The lobby of the Denava Luxuria Hotel was bursting as civilians crowded the lobby among slews of reporters and low level administrators supporting their political leaders. Most were already packing the connected auditorium of the hotel, its domed roof slightly drumming from the heavy rainstorm outside.
Several upper skylights showed the deluge, but it was a common site for the subtropical city as the cameras floated near the main stage.
The Moderator was already set up, this time a brown haired woman in a blue dress.
Within the hour, all three candidates were behind their podiums, waiting the last few minutes for the final debate to start.
Camera's powered up, the floating machines handled by staff and the reporters crowding the front rows from nearly every world in the Coalition.
"Hello, and welcome to the final debate for the office of Chairman. I'm your Moderator, Ashli Gram. The candidates will follow all rules of conduct for the debate" Giving a dispassionate warning, the slim brunette pointed toward the central candidate.
"Candidate Ghenhurst. It is no secret there are strong opinions of difference between Serans and Terrans. How would you bridge the gap between our species?"
He smiled warmly, the bald man eager to answer. "The obvious answer is to seek joint commercial and development ventures. Not only here in the Coalition, but in the Alliance as well. Nothing bridges gaps in understanding than trade and wealth. Once I'm Chairman, I will ensure not only new trade routes, but investment opportunities for all citizens"
"Avren Tilmston, same question" Ashli stated, the brunette clasping her hands upon her desk.
The red head gave his own smile, even if there was a slight strain behind his eyes. "As you all know, my goals for the Coalition have not changed. Simply put, the destitute masses of Terra living in their overcrowded cities choked with pollution and ash need a steady hand. Fixing Earth will not only bring about closer relations, but feed our economic and development sector's"
Most of the civilian crowd milled, not listening to the Governors words.
"Chairman Diaz. Please answer the question"
Grasping the podium with both hands, the black haired woman with smoothly tanned skin stared out at the crown for a moment, letting the drumbeat of rain hammer the domed roof far above.
"The simple answer is to leave them alone. If they choose to emigrate to Pandora, or our own citizens wish to form marriage unions and live on the Citadel or Illium or some other world, let them. We don't need the Terrans to survive and abandoning our core values for a species across the galaxy is foolish. Serans need to look inward, to rebuild and regrow what we've lost" She paused, her dark, somber dress almost absorbing the falling floodlights. "I will admit there are vast misunderstandings on both sides. Societal differences that many won't agree on. But spending vast resources to 'fix Terra' is a waste, especially with the long road of recovery facing the Northern colonies!" Shouting the last words, it created a mild cheer from the visitors, but it rapidly ebbed.
"Next question for Candidate Tilmston. Sensor records captured from the Klorvian Star Republic show without a doubt that substantial forces of the fanatical church escaped into the vast depths of the galaxy. How will you deal with such a looming threat?"
Alvren looked visibly rattled by the question as several beads of sweat began to form on his brow right before his hairline. "Obviously, I would have a reinforced survey flotilla begin to move past the K.S.R. to search for the extremists before they can strike us"
"That's foolish and a waste of military forces" Ghenhurst said with visible annoyance as he leaned forward. "Every school child knows that our home galaxy is comprised of at least…at least Two hundred million star systems! Not only that, but it's estimated that barely one percent has been properly surveyed. Yet you want to send a flotilla into the vast unknown? With no possible idea of direction or location for those Toad bastards? We have a better chance of stumbling into a new war with a new enemy than finding those damn toads" Pausing, Dorren raised his hands in surrender. "I apologize for my interruption, but my opponent is forgetting that the K.S.R. is bound by the treaty to inform us of the zealot's location. I have no doubt they would inform us since their survival would depend on it"
Ashli Gram didn't like the interruption, but moved her gaze to Chairman Diaz. "How would you respond to a renewed Klor'vian threat?"
Izabel remained calm, her face passive. "First of all, Ghenhurst is correct. The galaxy is massive. We simply have no idea where those monsters fled. They could still be fleeing, leaving our galaxy for a new home in Andromeda, they could have gone to the Northern rim to rebuild their forces. But the solution is relatively simple" Leaning forward, her face gained a grin. "We simply let them attack the K.S.R. After all, they might hate us and see us as vermin, but the K.S.R? Those are traitors to their god. I'm absolutely positive that if they return, the church of Klorta will wage war to reclaim their sacred homeland. Once that happens, our fleets fly in and destroy them with minimal risk to the COG. Plus, the B.S.A. is fully integrated and any unknown ships entering our territory will be dealt with"
There was a thunder of approval. After all, nearly every Seran hated the Toads, no matter if they were part of the new republic or the fanatical church. Using them as a buffer zone was vastly preferable to sending fleets into the unknown.
"Dorren Ghenhurst. The Quarian Migrant Fleet is a vast force housing the remnants of their civilization, much like ours faced in the dark days of the Locust war. If they were to arrive here in the Beta Sarfuth system via an unknown Mass Relay, how would your administration respond?"
The man smiled warmly, keeping his cool under the gaze of reporters and local citizens. "Preferably, I would try to open negotiations with the Quarian leadership. Possibly exchanging goods for their technical services which are well recognized in the galaxy. After all, its well documented that nearly a thousand joined the CAG as spotters and analysts"
"TIlmston, same question"
The man was clearly out of his depth now, the question making him perspire despite the coolness of the conference hall.
His campaign clearly was not going well over the last few months.
"I would open up the Southern continent of Dunfarran to temporary settlement. The Quarian's suffered greatly at the hands of the Geth and would need a place to regain their strength. That continent is vastly empty, giving them a home"
"YOU SUCK!" A heckler yelled, from the back before several security Gears wrestled him out of the room.
Alvren simply smiled and waved, his stress visible to many.
Suffice to say, his approval rating would drop three whole points by the end of the debate.
"Chairman Diaz? Your answer?"
"Have them turn around. The Quarians have very little to offer us aside from obsolete ships and a slowly dying species. Not only that, but Beta Sarfuth wouldn't be able to handle the sudden influx of nearly seventeen million refugees. I realize they are facing extinction, but since when is it the job of our government to feed and house an entire alien species?"
"WHAT IF WE FOUND A PLANET FOR THEM!?" A green haired woman shouted from the middle, her voice carrying toward the chairman.
There was a momentary pause from Diaz as she didn't anticipate a random question shouted from the audience. But she recovered in a moment, bringing out her dazzling smile.
"If we located a world for them to settle outside our borders, and they were willing to join the COG as a member state, I would consider a different course of action concerning the Quarians. Thank you for the question ma'am"
"Alright, moving on to the economy" Ashli Gram continued with a level tone as the floating camera's continued to pan and transmit. "The war was extremely costly. Not only in lives lost, but tens of trillions in damages that don't even include military expenditures. The Colonial Economist Party is well established in their stance for more open trade, along with the Green Party. However Chairman Diaz, you and your administration support an isolationist policy. How do you plan to grow the economy with such limitations?"
Ghenhurst smirked, his gaze drifting toward the woman on his right who slightly shifted in discomfort, but rapidly recovered that steel gaze of hers. "Yes, please tell us how you plan on replenishing our economy after such strains and destruction?"
Alvren Tilmston even unleashed a chuckle, sensing the Chairman would be stumped, thus making a fool of herself. He hoped it would distract the masses from his poor showing.
But unlike her political opponents, Diaz and her administration and been working on that problem since the day the war ended.
"The solution will take time, years to be fully realized. After all, I cannot simply snap my fingers and replace all that was lost. But limited trade is welcome, just not to the maddening extent these two propose" Waving her left hand in dismissal of the two men, she continued. "The Reach-Pandora corridor will be a vital trade route not only the rapidly growing Asari colony, Nueva Thessa, but the surrounding region. This is already happening with the trading of Java, Sugar, commercial goods, and Kelto Jel from Pandora itself and the rapidly growing colony. But clearly, having a single point of trade for the entire Coalition could lead to bottlenecks. A secondary trade corridor can be established at Vasgarnia. With the heavy naval presence in the sector and New Vectes nearby, we could open a second line to the Asari planet Illium with little risk so long as the proper measures are taken to ensure our security" Pausing, she looked out at the crowd, daring them to interrupt as her eyes blazed with authority. "The northern colonies were ravaged and devastated. Rebuilding their economies and industries will take years of sweat, labor and effort. But, with the location of Rion Glacias toward our far north, that will encourage a natural growth of settlement in the systems of Halo, Delta Sigmus, and Hammer Ridge as trade between our species and the galaxy grows. With this plan, I believe we can maintain our isolation and limit interactions while still conducting trade. Still…" Her smile turned into a frown, Izabel clasping her podium with both hands. "I will not end the reparation payments that the inhabitants of Reach so desperately need after their suffering. I will ensure that"
"And by doing so, you risk ruining any chance for closer relations" Ghenhurst spat, the man only seeing a warmonger.
"Tell that to the thirty million dead civilians of Reach who paid with their lives because of Asari arrogance and mistakes. Oh wait….you rather make the Asari happy over helping your own species"
"Don't you dare simplify my stance! By ending those reparations, I will increase trade and the outgoing products of the Coalition!"
"And how long until you trade away our military secrets?" Diaz asked with a wry grin as the bald man clenched his teeth.
"You know I would never consider such an act of treason! I support a strong military to protect the Coalition! But you rather hide behind our borders instead of joining the galactic community!"
Diaz heard the words, and immediately spread her arms wide. "You heard him! Join the galactic community! That sounds suspiciously like taking a seat on the council to me"
"Twisting my words won't win you re-el…"
Ashli Gram hit a buzzer, the sharp sound reverberating outward. "That's quite enough! You will conduct yourselves in a respectable manner, not squabble like the House of Sovereigns!" Half rising from her chair, the slender brunette glared at each candidate, her authority as moderator controlling the situation.
"I'm ready to continue" Alvren spoke out, trying to regain a sense of footing.
Ghenhurst grunted, looking away as his temper cooled.
Diaz simply spread her hands in a welcoming manner, inviting the next question.
"Very well. Tilmston. What measures will you take to prevent the Batarian Civil war from reaching our borders, specifically, the newly acquired system containing Ter'sha?"
Alvren struggled to answer as the debate continued for another hour, the candidates squaring off as the tropical storm continued to rage beyond.
The Citadel, Presidium Ward, 17th of Reap, 426 A.E.
Ambassador Ichika Kojima sat calmly at one of the small tables inside the Stargazer Bar House. Positioned in the corner near the expansive display that gave a stunning view of the nebula, she calmly drank some purple concoction, a relatively sweet alcohol that many Asari enjoyed.
While not crowded by any means, the upper levels of Citadel society enjoyed the establishment for its fine foods, beverages, and atmosphere. Most of the patrons right now were Asari, but there were a few Turians and Volus scattered about, including two Hanar in a far corner.
Soft music was playing, bathing the bar in warm sounds as the tapestry of pink nebula clouds swirled with ambient blues and yellows.
Obviously, most of the surrounding aliens were talking about the coming elections inside the Coalition, primarily the coming showdown between Chairman Diaz and Dorren Ghenhurst. Tilmston was already dismissed as a victor, his poor showing revealing that even the Serans could put forth poor candidates.
In all likelihood, he would return to his duties as Governor, never rising above the station.
Kojima was fine with that. Sipping the fruity drink that reminded her of mango's, she mentally assessed her last meeting with Minister Molotov.
Svetlana wasn't seeking re-election, deciding to retire at the end of her term. But the ambassador had to smile at her drive. Arcturus Station would be finished…right on the 33rd of Bounty. A small little twist against the Coalition and their elections. They were just voting, but the Alliance was opening their new seat of government.
Kojima was sure it would ruffle the feathers of Diaz.
"She'll probably win. Ghenhurst may be popular, but Diaz lead them through the fires of galactic war. A bloody one too. She can be a hard person to deal with, but at least we have a measure of her. Ghenhurst just seems…too open about trade and expansion. And Tilmston? That crazy bastard was probably planning on shackling the Alliance with technology. Heal Earth's environment and in a few years, we'd be a Coalition colony. Fortunately, most of his species rather focus on interior matters now that the galaxy has calmed down. Well, aside from the Batarians killing each other, but nobody really cares"
Taking another sip, Ichika enjoyed the flavor and the slight sting of alcohol.
Honestly, she was more concerned about the reservations for colonists. Even still months away, the opening of Pandora is a manic opportunity not only for Terrans, but the vast majority of known species that enjoyed peace and stability.
At this point, the que for the full quarter million colonists had already been filled with nearly seventy five thousand coming from Earth as Turians, Krogan, Asari, Hanar, and even some Volus opted to fill the remaining colony slots.
Kojima wished them luck, but those civilians might have a hard time dealing with Seran's on their home turf.
No matter.
Leaning back in her seat, Kojima enjoyed the swirling view of the nebula beyond the Citadel.
Tri-Ostri System, 33rd of Bounty, 426 A.E.
Scattered pockets of settlement covered the surface of Hastrin, the lone moon locked in orbit of Tri-Ostri. Heavy deposits of Nickel, Magnesium, and Titanium made the celestial body a rich outpost for mining and industrial manufacturing, the vast majority of the goods making a short journey to the garden world and its millions of inhabitants.
A trace atmosphere of argon and helium covered the celestial body, but it was negligible.
Benn Gragarin rode the industrial elevator down the deep cut mine shaft, the Tri-Ostrian surrounded by his fellow miners who were about to start their next shift extracting a large vein of Nickel from the depths of the moon.
Jann bumped him, the short woman standing behind and to his left adorned in the standard vac sealed mining suit. They were packed in like sardines, so hearing her through his helmet wasn't an issue as the elevator continued its descent.
"Hey Benn, you vote?"
"Yeah, this morning. Diaz is a good leader and knows when to make the hard choice's"
Jann grinned behind her faceplate as the lift finally settled with a rumble, revealing the bottom level of the mine shaft. Walking over to a wall of laser cutters, the short woman hefted one along with numerous others miners mimicking the action.
"She'll lose. Ghenhurst will get us trading with the galaxy. I bet within a year, the Terrans will be begging for our manufactured goods since all they make is crap anyway"
Benn shook his head, hoisting his own cutter as the two began making their way down a side tunnel.
"I always forget you're a staunch C. E. party member. It's okay, I forgive you" chuckling at his joke, Benn walked up to a possible vein before squeezing the trigger at the end of the tunnel. An eruption of a high heated beam shot forth, soon joined by Jann as the two cut through rock in an effort to free the valuable Nickel from the depths.
"Bet you my whole bar tab at Flanners that we'll have a new chairman" Grinning as the pulses of laser light ate away the rock, Jann managed to cut several chunks of Nickel free. Placing them into a nearby mineral hauler with tracked wheels, she came back to cut some more.
"Deal" Laughing at the easy bet, Benn concentrated on his job. After all, the sheer size of the Coalition meant that it would take well into the following day to properly tally the votes.
Thus, the two Seran's continued to mine as the election burned across COG space.
Harvest System
Votes continued to be counted across the COG, and Harvest was no exception. From the small communities to the capital of Barleytown, the citizens performed their civic duty in their votes.
Standing at the balcony of his home near the outskirts of the capital, Dorren Ghenhurst looked upon the empty fields of the surrounding farmland of this breadbasket world.
Sadly, it was still early Brume on the local calendar, meaning that crops wouldn't be planted for several more weeks.
Snorting as he lifted the glass of amber liquid, the bald politician drank lightly as his staff waited in support of the votes flowing into his home office.
He found it strange that Sera was now entering another winter, yet here he was on another planet, enjoying the first rays of Brume. That, and the fact it was early morning while Diaz was no doubt suffering through the early hours of the first day of Frost.
Leaving the view of the rolling landscape, Dorren took a seat on a nearby couch, waiting for the next update.
"How are we doing, Dani?" Looking over at his assistant, the blue haired woman simply pointed to the view screen across the room.
"Tilmston dropped out. Barely took sixteen percent of the vote. Diaz took Reach, but you're still leading by two percent"
Dorren watched the large screen, his staff hopeful and cheering when the majority of Borra Borrea voted for him.
But Oceania, Azura, Sera and Prescott hadn't been counted at all yet, and those systems heavily favored his opponent.
"It's going to be close…very close" taking another sip, he felt the sting as the election carried on.
Hours passed for Dorren, the stress and waiting palpable as the smaller colonies, stations, and mining communities sent their votes.
Tired and having loosened his buttoned shirt, Ghenhurst watched in defeat as the Prescott system went nearly ninety percent for Diaz. The harsh war torn world had suffered greatly during the conflict, and the locals had no desire to see their leadership open up to the wider galaxy. They wanted military strength with reconstruction, and they just helped make it happen under Diaz.
Dani looked sorrowful, the young woman resting a hand on his knee in a grasp for reassurance. "Oceania hasn't been counted yet, we can still win this"
Dorren tried to show a smile, but both knew the campaign was lost. "Oceania will go for Diaz just like the Prescott system. We're down by three percent already and the gap is widening with every update of votes from Prescott. No, I lost" Humbled, he made the call from his personal computer, the man weary.
Izabel appeared on the screen after a moment, her own hair unkept but the woman showing a small smile of victory.
"Ghenhurst. I can assume why you called me at nearly four in the morning"
"I'm calling it Diaz. You won. Even if I took all of Oceania, you would still be in the lead"
"You ran a damn good campaign, Dorren. I'll admit that. If it wasn't for the recent war, I'd probably be calling you instead"
Dorren Ghenhurst simply nodded, then spoke. "Good luck with your second term"
"Thank you"
With that, the call of concession ended, leaving the politician slumped in defeat at his desk. Looking up at his campaign staff, the man waved. "Go home, it's over"
He wanted to make a speech, telling them they worked hard, but in the end, it was his failure.
The Citadel, Presidium Ward, 1st of Frost, 426 A.E.
Councilor Tevos sipped the cup of tea, the warm beverage soothing her sour mood among the bustling clientele of the small café. Far removed from the busy entranceway and sprawling parks of the Presidium, the café was located nearly three kilometers from her office.
Which was fine, she didn't feel the need to be near the main chambers anyway.
Seated at an exterior table, the Asari turned her attention to a large wall screen across the large walkway filled with citizens.
The recent news was playing, the familiar visage of Bea Ja'tol smiling among the opening flare of colors and floating letters.
"Hello. I'm Bea Ja'tol at C.N.N. giving you the latest news" Giving a light pause, the camera panned on the Asari, the woman in a dark purple dress as she resumed. "Confirmation from our own embassy on Sera, and numerous independent sources have confirmed that Izabel Diaz, Chairman of the COG, has taken victory in the recent election. Having secured forty seven percent of the vote over Ghenhurst and Tilmston, neither former candidate has the means or legal authority to challenge a recount, as the difference far exceeds the margin of half of a percent required to secure such action"
"Damn. I was really hoping Dorren Ghenhurst won. He seemed a level headed leader who would open up vast trade and improved relations with the Council" Frowning, Tevos sipped her tea once more. "At least Diaz has voiced support of a new trade route near Illium, but I'm sure it will take time"
That bit of information had been surprising since her administration was so hard headed. "Probably a concession to ensure her re-election. She knew that killing any new avenues of trade would destroy her chances, especially with her plans of economic, industrial, and civil reconstruction. Can't have one and not the other"
It did lighten her mood that even in victory, Izabel didn't get everything she wanted. The simple fact was that some Serans wanted to trade and interact with the greater galaxy and unless she went full despot, Diaz couldn't stop it.
Tevos would have to discuss new trade ideas with Procus and the new Salarian Councilor, Valern. He was young at ten years, but then, that was adulthood for Salarians.
"Procus is getting up in years too. I know he's nearing the age of retirement and will want to enjoy the last portion of his life with family" Thinking out loud, Tevos knew the Turian still had a couple years left of viable service, but she should discuss it with him.
Sipping her tea once more, Tevos resumed watching the news as the visual program switched to a video clip of the newly finished Arcturus Station in Alliance Space.
Prime Minister Svetlana Molotov stood on a raised platform, holding a giant pair of scissors near a very long ribbon stretching across a panoramic view of the stars.
"As my final act as Prime Minister, I officially open Earth's new seat of government, Arcturus Station!" Snipping the large ribbon, the fabric fell away among human cheers as the blonde woman turned, her grin mischievous. "Many compare us to the Serans, but what did they do today? A simple cycle of voting while the Alliance, using our skills of industry and engineering constructed one of the most advanced stations in the known galaxy! In the coming weeks, we will be properly moving in the administration, personnel, and security to show the multiple races of the galaxy that we too, can stand with them in achievement!"
The view quickly switched back to Bea Ja'tol, the newscaster smiling. "An impressive feat that no doubt has many in the upper echelons of the Council talking. Now onto more news"
"The Batarian Civil war continues to rage among the southern galaxy. Confirmed reports have Lorek expanding into the Pylos Nebula, the systems within containing mineral rich worlds that will no doubt see rapid settlement and development. Meanwhile, a fierce naval battle between the Hegemony and Star Belt Nation saw thousands dead on both sides at BH-1344-S, a lifeless star system with vast Element Zero deposits. It is unknown who claimed victory"
"Now onto more pleasant news. Nueva Thessa has reported a surging population of Asari, Turians, and small communities of Krogan as the colony is estimated to now hold three hundred thousand. This trend is expected to continue as the planned migration to Pandora at the start of the next Seran year will no doubt result in thousands settling on the Asari colony along the border"
Tevos remained stoic, the female's mind already working through the coming hardships. Not for her own species, but for the vast thousands of Terrans seeking a place on Pandora, The Gateway to Reach as it was becoming known.
Coalition laws were far harsher, and some Terrans, especially with strong political beliefs might find themselves in conflict or even arrested.
Tevos shuddered at what some of the hard lined, fringe anti-fascist groups would do on such a world. She didn't know every political belief from Earth, but knew those groups found the mandatory birth laws of Seran women to be evil and an affront to their politcal code. Hopefully, most would just stay on Earth, letting the COG conduct their own ways.
Finishing her tea, Tevos stood, leaving her table for the long walk back to her office.
Sera, New Ephyra. 3rd of Frost, 426 A.E.
Izabel stood in her office, her victory now assured and established. Standing by the window as a light snow fell upon the sprawling city, she enjoyed a light drink. Nothing too crazy, after all, it was still morning. Just something to celebrate with.
Still, if one looked at her demeanor, they wouldn't see the underlaying anger she felt toward Dorren Ghenhurst.
It finally broke, making her swallow the pale liquid in one gulp, the alcohol burning her throat.
"That bastard. Why did he have to push for greater trade? Especially in the last debate? Dammit" Cursing the last word, Izabel had to think rapidly that day. Millions upon millions of Serans wanted a loosening of trade and keeping the Reach-Pandora corridor as the only link would've been a grave mistake. She had to portray a new idea in the moment, thus the new planned trade routes had been born out of necessity to secure victory.
It wasn't a disaster by any means, but it would take a bite out of her isolationist policy, something the Naval Industrialist wouldn't be happy about.
Izabel found it especially ridiculous that Minisiter Molotov thought she got a leg over the COG with their little space station. She barely considered it thinking about.
"Screw them all" She finally voiced, the leader taking her chair as the snow swirled beyond her office window. "We have the B.S.A. keeping a watch along our exterior, security and laws in place for trade licenses, and fleets ready to react in case of a crisis. I suppose we can afford two additional routes out of the Coalition to Asari space"
Speaking of naval forces, she would need to talk with Jacob Stratton, her new Secretary of the Navy. It was a promotion for him, especially after Herman Kentrelli suffered a minor stroke last month. The man had served well, but he needed to retire or risk dying in office.
She needed to know how far along the engine upgrades for the fleets were proceeding, and the numbers of new Strand destroyers replacing the old Baird Class.
If it was true that the Salarians were trying to revive the locust, she needed the entire navy ready…just in case.
Rubbing her forehead, Izabel sighed with a small outburst of stress. "By the Allfathers, I haven't even given my victory speech yet. But here I am, preparing for a new war with one of the galactic powers"
She would really have to get the D.N.I. moving to finding evidence of Salarian's conducting illegal research. Which was amusing since they were the ones that limited it themselves with their vast council laws.
Her computer was already powered up, the contents holding unread messages, unsigned documents, and reports meant for her and her alone.
The first document was the financial approval to begin construction of a fusion plant on Delta Sigmus, a much needed source for the coming tide of colonists.
Moving the electronic document with a flick of her wrist toward the desk embedded screen before her, Diaz signed with a long scrawl of the light pen across the screen.
It flew into the archives upon closing, no doubt to some low level administrator who would then make hard copies for the physical records.
It may be cumbersome in this day and age, but having a physical backup was essential in case the electric grid ever befell disaster.
The other races may make fun of Serans for this archaic system, but it worked. Plus, nobody can electronically hack paper.
Continuing her morning tasks, Izabel would have to meet with her speech writer at noon for her victory announcement, but until then…unending paperwork.
Snow fell upon the ruins of old Gerrenhalt, the city of crumbling towers, overgrown trees and encroaching ice eerily silent as light snow fell among a stinging wind that howled through the skeletal windows of the city center.
Of course, the Citadel scientific encampment still burned with electricity and purpose, the lone beacon of civilization a chilling reminder how empty Sera could be.
Especially under the blanket of stars and gaze of the moons.
A lone truck crunched over the pockmarked and cratered road, often times running over dormant vines and minor debris. Stopping at the gate of the scientific compound as the forcefield barriers hummed a dark blue, the vehicle stopped as two Turian guards stepped out of a heated hut, their breath smoking from the falling temperature.
They held rifles toward the ground, one moving toward the driver side of the transport.
"Who are you?" the avian asked with a gruff, the soldier wanted to stay in the comfort of the hut. It may be boring, but at least it was comfortable.
The woman behind the wheel showed her identification, her burnt, orange hair peeking out from a simple winter cap.
"Doctor Tifa Silva. I'm the geologist hired to assist in your research"
Private Turellius slowly nodded, scanning the identification with his omni-tool.
"Surprised to have a Seran helping out. I was under the impression that your government wanted nothing to do with this research operation" Handing the identification card back, he waved to his partner to open the gate.
"Well, I'm currently between employment and the financial offer from the Council Research Team was quite generous. After all, a job is a job. Plus, most of my species wants nothing to do with the Hollow"
"And your willing to work below ground?"
Tifa couldn't help herself. "I want to know! I want to know where they came from! The same with the lambent! I want to help discover how two humanities came to be! Maybe the answers are here, maybe among the stars, but I want to find out why!"
"Well, you'll fit in. All those scientists in there want to discover the same. Go on in, Doctor Pi'tol will get you settled" Waving the truck through the gate, the Turian stepped back as Tifa drove through, the large wheels crunching snow and crushed gravel.
Parking near a few other vehicles and the emergency air transport, Doctor Silva stepped out, the slender twenty eight year old wrapped in a warm jacket.
Seeing an Asari approach, she was one of the few still up and about in the encampment.
There were a few gathered around the sinkhole and large elevator cage, but the two Terrans made no move to greet and meet.
"I apologize for the low turnout, but it is quite late. Or early now" Jea Pi'tol informed as she extended her hand, her smile a little strained, but genuine.
"I understand" Shaking her counterpart's hand, Doctor Silva moved to the back of her truck, opening the rear hatch before reaching for a few duffel bags. "Mind if you show me to my own little lab?" Chuckling lightly, it put Jea at ease as the Asari turned.
"Of course" Leading the way, both females crossed the compound toward a line of pre-fab labs set up near the humming security fence and the crumbling ruins of a building. Stepping through the doorway of the left most building, the interior had a recessed bed along the wall, tiny bathroom, kitchenette, and several pieces of equipment for analysis at the far end.
"Unfortunately, the last geologist transferred a month ago, saying the stress was too great. I don't blame him"
"I heard what happened. Hate to say it, but your team tried to do too much, too fast. The Hollow deserves respect and…well, what happened, happened"
"I can assure you, that we are taking far more precautions now. Your employment file mentioned firearms training. Ex military?"
Tifa laughed, the sound rich and feminine as she set down her belongings and removed her hat, letting the rust colored hair fall to her shoulders. Opening one of the bags, it held a lancer rifle, an item fully accepted before hiring. Setting it near the bed, its brutal teeth drew the Asari's gaze. "No, I just happened to take a training course last year. It's not required in the COG, but encouraged. Getting that rifle was easy with all the surplus equipment from the war. My mom was happy about that, but now she's a little cross with me about taking this job"
"May I ask why?" Crossing her arms, Jea leaned against the door frame, the barrier now shut to the winter temperatures.
Tifa began to unpack, but with space mostly dedicated to scientific equipment, there wasn't much she could do with her clothes. At least she could close the blinds on the windows for privacy. "Just the whole helping to repopulate thing. I plan on it, but my mother seems to think I should take care of children now, not later. Don't misunderstand, we still get along mostly, but that's what usually starts an argument"
"That must be difficult to deal with, the birthing laws of your species"
Doctor Silva shrugged. "We're still repopulating from the locust war, and the Toads set us back years in that regard. I'll carry out my duty, but I'd rather find the clues of the past first"
"Understandable" Sighing with relief, Jea turned toward the door. "Settle in and get some rest. We'll be introducing you to everybody tomorrow, then heading down into 'the hole"
"Alright, thanks again for brining me on" Smiling with a wave, Tifa watched the Asari leave.
Once gone, Tifa drew the blinds, quickly changing into night garments a minute later. She doubted the aliens would spy on her changing, but she knew a few Terran men were in the camp, recent arrivals from Earth.
If they were anything like typical males, they would try to sneak a peek.
Fortunately, the blinds were efficient for laboratory work and privacy, making the pre-fab unit adequate. Reaching into her second duffel bag, she pulled out her personal data tablet, rapidly inputting her code before pressing her thumb against the small scanner built into the device.
Typing a rapid message, the secured stream of data would piggyback on the nearby comm array the Council used, then move onward to another secured relay. She didn't know where or who would read it, only that the D.N.I. needed her help in observing the researchers here, especially the Salarians.
Doctor Tifa Silva didn't even know the details, the agent that contacted her stating Need to Know, and she didn't need to know.
Essentially, she was to report everything she observed while in the field.
Tifa hoped it was nothing, that all of the people here were just trying to find answers. Heck, she liked the Asari. But as of right now, she only had to inform of observation. In fact, she had specific orders not to interfere with any questionable activity.
Shutting down the tablet, she quickly found a hiding place for the slender piece of technology, sliding it between the gap of her bed and the nearby wall.
Laying down after dimming the lights, Tifa was actually excited to go down there. After all, she was still a geologist and none of her colleagues were interested in the Hollow.
"Maybe I'll make a big discovery?"
Either way, the civilian was in place to watch the alien scientists on the Seran homeworld.
System SU-483, 1st of Storm 427 A.E.
Doctor Repan Nalu walked along several tall vat tanks, the bubbling blue liquid within holding twisted, gnarled creatures of nightmarish appearance.
Having worked tirelessly among his compatriots in the hidden laboratory deep within Salarian space, Repan ticked off a mark on his electronic tablet, his firm gaze a scowl as his white coat swayed behind his rapid footsteps.
"Damn. More failures"
Looking at the latest attempt at a locust drone in the closest growth vat, the creatures left arm and leg were a twisted, gnarled mass of flesh while the skull clearly showed deformities compared to historical files. Yet, this was the best one yet as the former attempt didn't even have eyes and was missing vast amounts of internal organs.
"A whole year and still no viable drone. A disappointment, but each failure is a chance to learn from mistakes"
Marking them for disposal and dumping into the gravity well of the nearby star, regulations dictated they couldn't just throw genetic failures out the airlock. Protocol had to be followed and the small biohazard shuttle they employed would see to construction in the nuclear fires of the local sun.
Of course, Doctor Repan didn't have to carry out such menial task. A disgraced agent would.
"I need more samples. Or more time. Recreating these locust is time consuming. Perhaps a larger lab? I clearly cannot try to recreate a Beserker in this place. We simply don't have the room. I'll include in my next report"
Walking along the line of liquid filled vats, Repan Nalu gave no indication of regret or remorse as the mounds of ruined flesh were flushed into the bio containment room below, waiting for destruction. "I'll set up the next growth attempt, then take lunch" Grinning, the doctor returned to his work, the ethical implications lost upon him and the rest of the staff.
Beyond, the pulsing local sun and tapestry of stars gave no indication of the evil being conducted under their gaze.
So I think that's a decent cut off. Next chapter will primarily focus on colonization efforts, trade, and exploration. Possibly some cultural strife on pandora, but not sure yet.
Also, as stated before, I don't know much about politics. So if its very simplistic or I made some horrible error, I apologize. I did the best I could
Anyway, next update will be for my other story 'Bisca's Journey' If you read it cool, if not, that's okay too.
This is thehappy signing out!