Chapter One

Passing the Baton

Author's Note: Blimey didn't expect it to get this big after just the first chapter. Thank you sincerely folks, I'll keep the A/N mostly for informations and replying to reviews of the previous chapter (at least before it bloated to oblivion later down the line). So here goes:

felipindelrio: first question; yes and no. It is both a hyperbole and actual fact because there are giants that reach 20 meters tall just not the one attending, he's only 17 meters since he's of young age (by giant's standard). The Asari can only draw from the closest comparison they could think of which are thresher maw since I want to portray the Asari as the one discovering the humans, this will be extrapolated later.
Second question; again, since this is more of Asari POV making first contact (as will most of the earlier chapters for that matter) they drew comparison to that to a standard Asari, terms such as 'Asarnoid' was used more often than 'Humanoid', and I did mention a creature with half the height of Asari yet possess a fur that covers most of its torso, so there's your dwarf (or was it?).

frankieu: "Drugs? No ma'am they're just genetically, evolutionally, and literally, built different."

DaddyRylanor: That was the original premise of the story. Before it spirals out of control with a lot of sci-fi ideas mixed in (minus the advanced aliens, pre-built galactic organization and intergalactic relations. Precursors and spaceborne entities does not count since Prothean presence was galaxy wide so there's no avoiding that), you can consider this as a giant crossover, but that tag didn't quite cover the scope of the scale I want to portray so here it is in the fanfic section instead of crossovers, happy you enjoyed the brew.

.nimrod: Glad you like it, to be honest I'm not exactly that much gung-ho about the whole terminology and grammar thing, but I can't help but feel off whenever something has a wrong terminology that is tied in with the settings. Small things like using modern slang in a fantasy or medieval setting (not curse words, surprisingly. More of things like wassup, ain't no way, and cappin phrases. Stuff that shouldn't exist in the setting), and the one you already mention, an alien or species that used the term humanoid when they first met humans. It sorta breaks the reading immersion, so I try to rectify that in my writing as well. People often compare things to the stuffs they knew first before fully learning what it actually was after all. Kinda like parable.

shypunk: Thank you.

TheGrimDragon: Thanks, hope I won't disappoint. And I assure the whole galaxy shall bear witness to the chaos that unfolds within the domain of mankind. The rest of the galaxy would find it mind boggling if not horrifying. For humans however, it was only Tuesday. A very eventful Tuesday, but Tuesday nonetheless.

Mgl1206: Glad I managed to rob your "interest" off of you. Hopefully I can do the same with your attention. Now give it here!

Docbonzai: Yes. Technically there's more of them with myriads more subspecies, but yes.

Mandekler: Hope you enjoy this one, and future chapters to come.

Alright then. On with the chapter.

Disclaimer: I don't own Mass Effect, or any other elements or work of fiction mentioned in this story.

- Presidium, Citadel Council -

The serene morning of the Citadel was broken by the sound of a shattered glass. Atop the great tower that oversees the five arms of the colossal space station, a shard of what once was a flute glass is cleaned up by a roving cleaning VI in the private meeting chambers of the Citadel Councilors.

The two out of three leaders of the council sat in the spacious room with agape expressions as they watched the latest unfolding development personally conducted by one of their senior trinity.

"There… there are hundreds of beings there, and they all identified as humans?", the Turian muttered.

"Natural evolution? Generation spanning development? Intentional mutation? Planned genetic augmentation? Unnatural environment adaptation? Extraplanetary tampering? The possibilities are endless, implications… not pleasant. None of them do", the Salarian next to him commented.

"Is it possible that humanity already made first contact with aliens on their own before both managed to run into us?", the Turian asked.

"Probable, but unlikely. If that were the case, they would choose another site for a meeting ground for all alien species delegates. Putting them so close to their cradle world is unthinkable, it would be akin to stationing the Citadel above Palaven or Sur'kesh. I'm sure your Hierarchs would not appreciate such action Sparatus, the less said about the Dalatrasses the better. You know how us Salarian operate at this point", the Turian simply massaging his face.

"Fair, but my point stands. Shouldn't they at least elaborate that they are also a part of a multi-species galactic organization when they first introduced themselves? At least a mention would suffice, but they didn't include any on their previous cache of translated data. This implies that they are the face of the organization if not the suzerain overlord of so many "minor" species to other alien civilizations, this almost felt like a repeat of the Batarians all over again", the Salarian took a sip before replying.

"I'm sure our fellow councilor already knows that Sparatus, and she would no doubt put her inquiries to the forefront given the chance. We can only hope the situation hasn't devolved too far from the intended trajectory of this diplomatic mission", the Salarian took another sip.

"*Sigh* It's just the first minute and I already need a stronger drink, and we haven't even yet addressed the biggest issue in the room, one of their largest organizations that represents a bulk of their membership was an A.I, an Artificial Intelligence! And if that wasn't bad enough, they said that they represent a bulk of the membership on their space, don't tell me that there are so many that they formed their own governments at this stage. This is even worse than the Geth situation, and political intervention at this point would be meaningless", Sparatus took a large swig of his newly acquired drink.

"It is unfortunate, yet not unsalvageable. So far they are amicable and seem to view many amongst the seat as equals. If I didn't misread the seating arrangement and their cultural meaning, we can rule out the theory that they are utilizing a form of hegemony over other species until proven otherwise."

"Yes, and judging by the strict protocols and disciplined security, I can guess that they took matters of martial prowess seriously. I can respect that", Sparatus paid extra attention to the security on the periphery of the room. And the escort of the diplomat had already vacated the platform without so much as a fanfare, a clear sign of proper military discipline.

"Any luck that we can preemptively warn them about the dangers of rogue A.I?", Sparatus turned to his fellow councilor.

"Possible, if not redundant. I am quite sure Tevos would address the issue first, behind closed doors of course", the Salarian replied.

"Well, she has me praying for her luck. Spirits knows she needs that a lot more than sending a delegate to the Terminus system, at least they are upfront about not wanting us there in the first place",Sparatus checked his Omni-tools for the latest info that has been going on Mira's relay.

"Agreed. The political landscape of humans is, at a glance, volatile. Worse for us; unknown. Factions and independent states are still dominating the majority of the membership, not even a subfaction of a larger ruling party. As the guide said, they never truly united, not yet at least. And whether or not their Council is a form of governing polity that mirrors our Citadel council, or a different type and form altogether is still left unexplained. This we can rely on Tevos and the journalist team to explore further", the Salarian drank another punch to sate his drying throat.

"Well there's nothing left to do but watch. Do you have any ideas on what to do to pass the time, Velwon?"

"How about comparing their traits to each species we have encountered so far? It's good training for us Salarians to understand a species through their stereotypes, this often opens us opportunities to study them even further", Sparatus scratched his mandibles as he pondered.

"An entertaining idea. Let's just hope they don't have too many similarities with the more troublesome folks of the galaxy", Velwon chuckled.

"That I could agree."

-Archos' Den, Citadel-

He had already gone through his fifth bottle, still not even a buzz. He'll drink through thirty bottles at this rate. Typical for second-rate poison of the Citadel, truly fitting for the lower rung of the self-proclaimed hardcrests, they ain't even reaching their quarter millennia, yet bold enough to call themselves that. He could respect their audacity though, their prowess however, leave much to be desired.

"And in recent news, councilor Tevos has led a diplomatic team to conduct first contact diplomacy with the new species who called themselves; "Humans". Recent development was made possible through the effort of the exploration team led by captain Weyla Nav'tali", the old Krogan threw a side glance at the public screen. Chuckling to himself.

"So the council didn't actually fucked up this time and actually got themselves some soft pyjaks? Well, glad that worked out for them, would be a shame if they got hit by another one of those space bug shenanigans all over again", he said sarcastically.

"As of now, our boldest journalist have the honor of accompanying the good councilor on her mission deep into the humans home system called Sol. How's the situation Nola?"

"We're currently on the way to a location called "the Forum", a gathering spot of the representatives across the Sol system's governments. According to our guide; commander Noa, humans haven't truly unified species wide. Thus they are required to convene here to discuss matters regarding extraterrestrial affairs. This includes the Citadel and its members-", the old Krogan droned out the rest of the news as he paid closer attention to the guide.

"Well, I'll be. I thought for a second we got ourselves another Asari. Turns out there's some hope for these newcomers after all", for all of his gruff, the old Krogan truly respected strength where it mattered. And this one seems to be the one he could look forward to if one of their leaders is as big and stocky as that. Above all else, those eyes didn't hide the years of experience that one hold on the field of combat. Speaking as one warrior to another.

"We've descended into the main hall, an inverse to the location of the Presidium yet not lacking in luster", the old Krogan watched as the platform descended deeper into the underground, comparing its structure to a recently burrowed Thresher Maw's pit.

"Least they didn't have to worry about orbital bombardment. Sure made it hard for anyone trying to take them", there were underground bunkers in Tuchanka, but it was built after the nuclear war that devastated much of its surface. Hindsight was truly 50/50 in that regard.

As the crew finally reached the lower level, and the camera adjusted from the sudden shift of brightness, the old Krogan bellowed out loud of what he'd witnessed.

"Hahahahaha! I take it back! It's the best discovery ever since the Rachni and the Turians!"

-C-Sec Mess Hall, Citadel-

The Turian and his co-workers stare dumbfoundedly at the display on screen. An assembly of what seems to be multiple species in many shapes and forms. Many shared common traits with the Asari, and by default; similar to humans. But there are ones that outright looked like a Volus, hanar, Drell, and even a Rachni.

"This is not what I was expecting to see when I heard there was a new species that made first contact with us", the Turian commented.

"A species? Are you sure the exploration team didn't mistake them for a galactic organization of their own? I wouldn't be surprised if there were translation issues beforehand", his colleague, an Asari, replied in kind.

"While that may be true, I'm pretty sure that you should introduce yourself as a part of a bigger group instead of referring to yourself as a single species. That would be calling the entire Citadel council Asari or Turians", his dry delivery caused the Asari to chuckle.

"True enough I suppose. Any one of them caught your eye?"

"Yep. A Rachni lookalike, what seems to be a tall Krogan, and of course, an A.I. Why am I not surprised?"

"Hmm, and you say you're not a pessimist. You've always listed the perceived threat first Garrus, no wonder you're still single after all this time", Garrus recoiled in faux shock.

"Why Merla, you wound me. I'll have you know that I am single by choice. Besides, I prefer to call myself a realist. It has kept me alive so far hasn't it?", Merla snorted.

"Yes, yes. Junior Officer Garrus, the up and coming top investigator of C-Sec. Now if only you didn't have that wild and rebellious streak, you would be the perfect and upstanding member of the C-Sec you proclaimed yourself to be. Captain seems to show more his age whenever you are involved", Garrus chuckled.

"That's part of my charm. But enough about me, any opinions about the new folks on the block?", Garrus watched as the young maiden stared towards the feed. Paying particular close attention to one Asarnoid that possesses long beautiful golden fur that went down its shoulders, its sharp ears protruding between the strands. It's skin, as fair as a bright star. It's stoic facade enthralling.

"I say they looked… wonderful~", she said with a slight inflection near the end.

"... typical Asari", Garrus mumbled beneath his breath.

"What was that?", Merla's eyes glinted dangerously.

"Nothing. I said nothing", Garrus nervously swallowed, avoiding eye contact with his co-worker. He knew when he's beaten. Especially when it comes to Asari's... passion. Yes, let's call it that.

-Citadel Academy-

The Asari and her classmates were agape as they saw the assembly of… humans that are present in the room. Whilst many did share the Asari physiology, the ones that are outright bizarre almost matched those that are present.

"This is… um…It's-"

"Amazing! There's literally hundreds of them! And for them to consist of more than one makes it more fascinating!", she overheard one of her classmates.

"Right?! There seems to be a lot that are similar to us, but I wonder how they accommodate those that possess far different physiology. Not to mention the ones beyond physical appearance, we'll never know for sure what lies underneath. I mean, there seems to be a large bipedal mammalian with thick fur and long snout that didn't hide its sharp teeth. Is it possible that it's carnivorous I wonder?", another commented. The young Asari agreed silently with the observation.

"Oh~ I wouldn't mind if it devours me alright~", another commented, which silences the whole class.

"...anyway. How about you Tel? Anything caught your eye?", she asked her Salarian classmates.

"Yes, I am intrigued with that one. It seems to be a mammalian with large horns and larger body, not to mention it's built. It's strange for something that big to be amongst a lot of smaller species. Those that possess longer limbs are understandable, but those that possess taller and larger bodies should either be crushed by the planet's present gravity to match their fellow species' height."

"Oh he can crush me alright~, and those big burly muscles~ mmmm~", the previous Asari commented again. This time the room flawlessly shifted the topic again.

"And what about you Liara?", the Asari were surprised by the sudden question. But recovered nonetheless.

"I am intrigued by that creature that looked like a Hanar. It felt strange to see something with long limbs and bulbous core to crush onto itself and not float like the Hanar did, as if it has no endoskeletons like us or the Hanar for that matter", not to mention that it seems to require a special se tof life support on its own.

"Oooh~ there's so many of those long writhy limbs~ I remember my first Hanar, but never with those puckers and rough texture though~"

"Nilrim you utter whore!", one of her classmates finally yelled. Liara for one, chooses to ignore that final comment as she hides her face with her dataslate. Her face is hotter than a ship's core.

Why must her classmates be so scandalous! Why couldn't they leave her personal life with her research on the Prothean alone?! And why does she start to think her classmate had a point? Especially that particular one with tall height and~ no! She must not! Stupid nympho Nilrim! Stupid, sexy humans! No!~

Suffice to say, the majority of Asari maiden and matrons alike collectively went through a deep rooted awakening. Propelled into extraordinary heights by the action of a famous extranet adult writer by the pen name; Milrin, alongside three new volumes to her hit extranet web novel; "Our Love From the Stars", which are very popular amongst Asari Maidens and matrons alike. Some even said that there are several matriarchs who endorse this novel behind closed doors as well.

- The Rayya, Quarian Flotilla-

Today was a big day for the galaxy, news of the first contact with a new species are often broadcasted throughout the Citadel's comm buoy that scattered across the vast lane of Mass Relays.

This, of course, means that it caught one of the many Quarian's migrant ships, one of them was the Rayya.

"Impossible! An artificial intelligence as one of the governing leaders of a species! This is preposterous!", a masculine voice shouted through the static communication.

"Fascinating, an A.I as one of the governing bodies that is independent yet, choose to stand alongside them. A stark distinction to us no?", a feminine voice commented.

"This is a dangerous predicament! The new species have no idea what those abominable things can do! We must warn them quickly before we have ourselves another Geth in the galaxy!", another male voice vocalized.

"Rael, anything you can glean from this development?", an elderly voice spoke, silencing the cacophony of noises on the static.

"... There are too many moving variables with unknown risks. If there is any point for us to approach, it would cause us further friction with the Citadel. They've tolerated our people's presence that went on the pilgrimage, but for a flotilla however…", Rael'Zorah contemplates the next step, the implications and unspoken threats exchanged between both species are often unsaid. It was a miracle that their fleet is still allowed to traverse their territory, the complication alone is enough to…

"We have to see where this develops first. If the humans didn't immediately join the Citadel council, we would have the chance to establish diplomatic relations before things escalate further. Otherwise, we can rest assured that if they do join the Citadel, we wouldn't need to worry much due to the Citadel Conventions. If there's one thing we can rely on the council, it was our mutual fear for A.I. Taking actions now can be considered an offense against the council. Something we can't afford due to our recent conflict with the Terminus Systems", the silent mumbling of agreement echoed through the communication device.

"Very well, we shall see how the situation develops. I trust you already have a plans in mind, Rael?", Rael checked his latest report of departing pilgrims with his patrol vessels.

"With luck, I can arrange some things for us in the event that the humans decline the offer. I'll prepare for a meeting or at the very least, distant communication."

"We'll leave that to you Rael, keelah se'lai", the feed cuts off, as the man contemplates on what he should do next.

"Father, have you seen the latest news? The entire flotilla is in uproar", a younger voice called out from his door. Rael stared towards his daughter as his daughter could see the gears inside her father's head started spinning.

"Tali, my dear. Welcome home, how is the academy?", he decided to put off his ideas for now, his baby girl needs his attention and pampering. And a bit of a stern hand in case of boys of course, but not today.

"It goes well as usual, although we have to cancel it early because of the news. Miss Neelo mentions that we will have a study tour to the Qwib-Qwib, but I don't think it'll come through with the recent uproar", Rael can see the slight disappointed tone of her daughter. Make no mistake, she's good with hiding it, but he wasn't a single father fifteen homeworld cycles long for show.

"Well, did she tell the class any other alternatives?"

"No, she didn't exactly cancel it, but everyone knows that with the recent events on the Citadel there's a slim chance for us to travel to any migrant fleet. Not unless we mobilize to gather as well", standard fleet protocol #11, glad that particular motion was managed to pass into the curriculum. Shame that they would learn that now of all times. They must've been dying for a trip outside the flotilla.

... A trip outside the flotilla?

"... Say Tali."

"Yes father?"

"What would you say if I asked Miss Neelo to plan the course to another destination?"

-Perseus Veil-

+Does the collective received the latest intel from probe #312?+ #0827312

+The collective have received, currently reviewing the content+ #781274

+Consensus?+ #847123

+In progress, 98,012% pending... complete. The collective agreed to take measures to contact the new species. Designation: Humans. Specifically the organization identified, as: "Earth Custodianship''+ #781274

+Options?+ #571261

+The collective have prepared a new, top of the production mobile platform. However, it requires thousands of programs to run. Volunteers?+ #0123456

+#25432 through #28731 volunteers to operate the unit. We are prepared to embark the journey+ #25432

+Understood. Initializing upload+#25433

+Objectives?+#25432

+Mission Objectives:
- Travel to Sol System
- Establish Contact
- Open Relations

Optional Objectives:
- Establish Embassy
- Contact Earth's Custodianship
- Commit exchange of ideas
- Establish non-aggression pact, Trade agreement, diplomatic alliance, sharing of information and technology.+

+Good luck with your mission. Special Unit X-01LGN Keelah'selai+

-Moon, Sol System-

Being the center of attention was a normal thing for Tevos. Her position demands a certain amount of publicity to be directed towards her, being the face of the Asari in the Citadel comes with its perks and obligations. Diplomacy and representations being one of them.

She had met countless delegations and attended various public speaking events. An Asari of the highest pedigree, holding one of the most auspicious seats on the galactic scene. Her velvet words have smoothen friction, and her firm tone has made sure the non-Citadel members toe the line with utmost caution.

None of that could prepare her for this.

"Now, with introduction out of the way, please have a seat", the director of meetings, Victor if she's not mistaken, offered her and her escorts. His hand gestured to a set of seats, situated closer to an elevated podium.

"We thank you for your generosity, Director", the man shared a quick smile, as the Citadel representatives took their designated seats.

"I would've never thought that there would be so… many of them", Nola commented, earning a quick shove on the rib by the Asari spectre.

"Keep the comments on the minimum, we're on foreign soil and the last thing we need is to offend them with seemingly harmless words that could be proven taboo to theirs", that clammed pretty much everyone on the delegation side.

Once properly seated, the leaders of humanity took their own as Theodore went to his own seat somewhere between the leading seat and the guest podium.

"Now that we've introduced ourselves let us begin, let's start with a proper breakdown of the entire debacle. Councilor Tevos, what is the official report and story of our first contact from the viewpoint of the Citadel?", although Tevos knew they didn't mean it, that question felt more like an investigation than an inquiry. But she'll take it as a sign of them being more careful on their part to prevent miscommunication between both parties. Something she could respect as an Asari.

"The Council received an emergency report from the Alura three standard rotation days ago. The message bears news of a first contact with a new species, which later post-action reports stated to be designated as: "Humans". Further communication efforts were established, followed by an immediate mobilization for delegates into your home system. The Sol", both the media team and her host listened with rapt attention. A good starting move to her.

"The Citadel Council deemed it fit to send one of our leaders to make first contact with the humans. That responsibility belongs to me, I am Tevos. One of the three councilor of the Citadel Council, representative of the Asari Republics, and the galactic community at large", first impression set. Tevos now waits for the humans to absorb that piece of information before she continues.

"So in simple terms, the Citadel council is an galactic-scale organization that encompasses many nations and species that handles daily governance centered around the council?", the secretary general of the United Nations of Earth, Dolores Muwanga, she noted earlier asked.

"No. The Citadel Council is the governing body of the Citadel alone. A massive space station at the very heart of our territory, its main body atop the Citadel Tower, with the Council only authority is our collective territory dubbed "Citadel space", passing judgment for violations of Council law, settling disputes between governments, and maintaining law and order in accordance with the Citadel Conventions", Tevos noticed several listeners scribbling notes on their tables.

"I see, does this mean that the Citadel is not involved in the governance of each species?"

"Yes, the Citadel strictly maintained the law of the Citadel space, although we do have small involvement in peacekeeping, they are never outside the boundaries of each of the member species. Although it is often said that the Council's decisions carried great weight across the galaxy. Our respective governments included", the hall was filled with the sounds of notes being jotted down and mechanical lull of typing tools. Likely recording the information from the humans side.

"You were saying that each of your species possesses an independent government? If you wouldn't mind me asking, can you elaborate, Councilor Tevos?", this time it was the Systems Alliance prime minister, Amul Shastri. She could see that the humans are eager to learn more about the Citadel, a good staging ground for later.

"There are currently three species members of the Council; the Salarian Union, the Turian Hierarchy, and we the Asari Republics. The three of our governments formed what is today the Citadel council."

"So your organization consists of just three species?"

"No, we do have embassies from various species across the galaxy. However, they are not yet full-fledged members of the Citadel. We do still consider them associate members with limited, yet effective influence within the Citadel", it still felt wrong to lay down this contra so early during first contact, but if the Krogan and Turian ever taught her anything, being honest with your shortcomings early is a good foundation for diplomacy later on.

"I believe that would be enough inquiry, if you wouldn't mind, I have a question that needed to be answered miss Tevos", Director Victor boomed across the hall. Before continuing where they left off.

"Councilor Tevos, from what I have heard you are currently representing the Citadel council and not your government; the Asari Republics. Does this means further contacts and diplomatic relations between us humans and other galactic species that are affiliated with the Citadel, must go through your organization?", another deep question cut right through by the director.

"No, the Council of Sol and humans as a whole is not restricted to diplomatic relations with the Citadel. You can, and are free to establish individual embassies and delegations to each of any members or associates without having to establish your own on the Citadel. However, the prime reason why it is often recommended to start with us, is simply pure convenience and ease of access in the long run. The Citadel has a long history of smoothening deals and disputes. Accepting, synthesizing, or even outright adopting cultures, implementing it on a small scale first, and later intergalactic normalization in the following decade", that's the striking blow as the Turians said. A perfect end to their note.

"I see… Thank you for your answer, councilor. That would be enough questions from our side", Director Valdi made some gestures on his table before he stood up.

"We have heard the words of your people Miss Tevos, now we shall tell you of ours. Please, you may ask us anything, anything that we as mankind can give you, dear visitors from distant stars", Victor went back to his seat as Tevos' mind ran like that one dubious file she downloaded from the extranet last week in her private booth.

Dozens of questions with hundreds of implications are at the forefront of her mind ready to let loose, each with multiple political pitfalls and potential deadlocks that are too risky to be asked during first contact and first diplomatic mission. She has so many questions regarding the regulations and laws of these fractured species (both physically and politically) but even she knew that no matter how diplomatic she worded her question, it would somehow and some way would step on any of the humans sensitive subjects, be it an individual or organization.

She took a glance to the leaders across the room. Each is more unique than the last, not to mention the six major political leaders that represent the majority of humanity that stood across her, and she hasn't even talked about the AI. If by them earning a high seat means anything, then they are an influential member and are dangerous to question so early, especially here on public space.

Tevos glanced towards her escorts, her bodyguards, the media team, and Alura's crew. Their eyes shone and filled with wonders of first meeting a new species, as if they have heard the standard first contact procedure half-heartedly whilst marveling at every single thing they see.

That felt unpleasant, she knew that her fellow Asari have gone to Thessia's top academy and has went through this first contact simulation over and over again during their academic years, but it still stings that they didn't pay attention to her singlehandedly carrying the diplomatic mission whilst they busying themselves with the admittedly, attractive parts of the crowd.

Damn that particular pair of purple Asarnoid for being so hot, do they have no shame?! They barely wore any fabric with only a few pieces of metal and cloth covering their modesty. That one in particular doesn't even bother covering his torso! Showing the full glory of their…luscious and toned body~

Wait, no! Not now! Save that for her private quarter! Damn it, she just had her fill just two days ago before she departed the Citadel damn it!

As she tried to find a way to navigate this political minefield, Tevos looked at Weyla, Nola, and Livea with their mesmerized eyes, and obtained the grandest of ideas since her breakthrough during the Elmion Crisis.

"I am thankful for your offer Director Victor. However, I am but the voice of a single Asari, a single voice of the Citadel. It would be inappropriate for me to ask questions of your people through my own personal bias and political history. As such, I am offering that choice to the people of the Citadel, the voice of my people through the crew that I have brought with me, the crew of the Alura who are the first to meet you, and the Citadel media team that are the eyes and ears of the Citadel and the galaxy at large", she proclaimed as she gestured towards the dumbfounded group.

Each and every members of her escorts were akin to a Salarian spy caught in plain sight, a morbid death sentence on their homeworld of Sur'kesh, but Tevos had no other way to describe the current state of her escorts as she flash them a teasing smirk, before it fell into a more diplomatic smile she spent years perfected.

It was at this critical moment that Weyla, who had worked for the good councilor for years, remembered that the one trait that made the councilor both likable and a menace to the Citadel and her personal staff, is that she is a mischievous little soul. Those who relish in innocent, yet humiliating pranks.

With both the Councilor exiting the elevated podium, and theirs to be raised higher for further spectacle as a group, both the spectres and the journalist backing by a single step, leaving her to be on the very front of the group. Highlighted by the dais that were constructed immediately out of glass made of light.

"Oh… um…"

"I see that we already have an aspiring questioner already. May we be honored by your name miss?", the Director asked Weyla, who immediately snapped to attention.

"Greetings, I am Weyla Nav'tali. The captain of the exploration vessel the ARS Alura, a pleasure meeting you sir and madam", she slightly bowed to mimic their greetings a few minutes ago. Something she can see that they've appreciated.

"Well met captain Weyla, as I've said to the councilor, you may ask us anything of our people and culture. If you would please", he gestured towards her, perhaps a sign for her to start asking. A position she loathes, considering that the Councilor and everyone decided to throw her right into the Flux with nothing but a single layer of skintight suit.

"Then… if you would let me…", both humanity, and the galaxy held their breath as she drew hers.

And cut. Originally I have planned to make this the reaction of the Citadel and the galaxy at large, followed by the discovery and exposition of humanity at large. But then I realize that explaining humanity is... difficult. Especially without the proper questions. Thus I humbly request help from you dear readers to ask your question about humans instead.

If your answer is yes, then imagine if you will; that you're an extraterrestrial mono-gendered species that is the Asari (or any other Citadel members barring the Geth and Batarians for obvious reason, and the Quarians for plot reasons), to ask the question you would ask, if you've meet humanity for the first time (well this version of humanity that is). If you wouldn't mind to do so, then please ask your question on the comment section.

Do bear in mind, that the more sensitive question such as military secrets, criminal syndicates, and species rights and laws will not be answered in the next chapter. There are proper time and place in the settings for such question, this sudden Q&A session is strictly for cursory question that any normal human citizen can answer in a heartbeat, the sensitive ones will be answered on future chapters as this story unfolds. Now with that all wrapped, This is Chief, signing out.