Chapter Two

[Quantum Rain]

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As the forum auto-splits topics every 50 pages, the next topics will be named further chapters accordingly. This is chapter two, guys, KEEP IT UP!

Post.
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Reeds just kept on whistling as guards and crew cleared out of his path. Eventually, he stopped at a door, the label addressing it as 'Science Lab 2A.' He smiled as he opened the door and Lae saw that the science lab was not small by any means. It was massive, in fact, taking up at least five rooms and two floors entirely on its own. It also seemed to host a massive range of equipment, some of which were entirely foreign to him. With all of the technology, equipment, and stores here, one could only wonder what Reeds' intention was with this lab.

He rolled the cart up next to two others and then proceeded to rummage around for a datapad. "Sit down, my fine lab rat." He said friendly still as he finally found his desired object, turning it own and turning toward Lae, a mischievous grin on his face.

[Roach]

Brusilov leads him to the transporter pad and Kharrov is beamed to the Federation diplomatic corps office were he is met by a old man robed in white leaning on a staff carved from ash.

"Greetings friend I am Gandalf an adviser to the immortal council It is my understanding you wish to discuss setting up and embassy and appointing an ambassador?"

[Quantum Rain]

--Ultra Vires--

Karaed nods. "Certainly, some of the guards can escort you to the mess hall, where they can supply them with sustenance. If you would follow me, Charon, if I may call you that, we shall continue our conversation in my office." He says, as he turns. Four guards immediately appear and the captain motions for them to follow him. The two royal guards wait for Charon to move forward before walking behind him, one at either side. The crew would be shown into the mess hall and given their own tables. The captain explains that the tables have energy-matter converters and that a vocalization of their desires would be adequate. He also provided some of his own suggestions, given that Gal'Gai cuisine is not known quite well.

Meanwhile, Charon and Karaed arrive at the former's office, which was comfortably crafted, complete with a desk at the back, in front of a window showing off the view into the far-off horizon. There were six chairs, two in front of the desk, and two to either side. As well, on one wall was a series of bookshelves, entirely filled with books and datapads. There were several antique, and decorative, pieces as well, giving to the idea that Karaed collects antiques, mostly books. "Please, have a seat." He says, as he moves behind his desk and sits down. The guards took position outside the door.

[darthme]

--Ultra Vires--

Karaed nods. "Certainly, some of the guards can escort you to the mess hall, where they can supply them with sustenance. If you would follow me, Charon, if I may call you that, we shall continue our conversation in my office." He says, as he turns. Four guards immediately appear and the captain motions for them to follow him. The two royal guards wait for Charon to move forward before walking behind him, one at either side. The crew would be shown into the mess hall and given their own tables. The captain explains that the tables have energy-matter converters and that a vocalization of their desires would be adequate. He also provided some of his own suggestions, given that Gal'Gai cuisine is not known quite well.

Meanwhile, Charon and Karaed arrive at the former's office, which was comfortably crafted, complete with a desk at the back, in front of a window showing off the view into the far-off horizon. There were six chairs, two in front of the desk, and two to either side. As well, on one wall was a series of bookshelves, entirely filled with books and datapads. There were several antique, and decorative, pieces as well, giving to the idea that Karaed collects antiques, mostly books. "Please, have a seat." He says, as he moves behind his desk and sits down. The guards took position outside the door.

~Ultra Vires~

The crew members take the guard's suggestions, and would be seen hungrily, although politely, eating their meals.

Charon sits down, waiting for Karaed's next statement.

[Quantum Rain]

"If you desire anything, feel free to ask. The desk has a built in energy-matter converter should you require something to drink or food to eat." Karaed announced politely still.

[darthme]

"If you desire anything, feel free to ask. The desk has a built in energy-matter converter should you require something to drink or food to eat." Karaed announced politely still.

Charon, having only seen books in museums, looks inquisitively at the bookshelves around the room. When he is done inspecting, he asks "I would like to enjoy some of your cuisine. What do you suggest I ask for?"

[Quantum Rain]

Karaed notes his interest in the books, but says nothing. When Charon inquires, Karaed answers appropriately. "Virisian cuisine would be more to your taste than Sovani would be... Perhaps a dish of theirs." He presses a button on his desk and a plate of food appears in response. A golden, stir fried meat of some sort, braised with a red juice of some sort. It smelled sweet, with a slight sour backwash. A standard fork and knife, with a cloth napkin, appeared alongside the plate.

[darthme]

Karaed notes his interest in the books, but says nothing. When Charon inquires, Karaed answers appropriately. "Virisian cuisine would be more to your taste than Sovani would be... Perhaps a dish of theirs." He presses a button on his desk and a plate of food appears in response. A golden, stir fried meat of some sort, braised with a red juice of some sort. It smelled sweet, with a slight sour backwash. A standard fork and knife, with a cloth napkin, appeared alongside the plate.

Charon takes the plate and starts to eat, making a noise usually associated with one's taste buds being pleased. "This is very good. It almost tastes like Jaklu, which is an animal that the Gal'Gai herd and get most of our meat from." Charon then asks Karaed, "Is there anything you would like to know about my people before we delve into yours?"

[Fore Admiral Disayle]

--Aves--

*Ackbar shakes his head at the mention of Trebor.* Ackbar: I don't know of this Trebor, Ambassador. And from what you say of him, I'm glad I don't. My people only recently leapt onto the galactic stage, and in our brief time here, we've already received quite a few shocks. A fair and peaceful people...so were we, before the war. *He lifts the glass to his beak once again, but decides against drinking more.*

Ambassador, listen closely to what am I about to tell you. There is a threat out there, lurking among the stars, that makes everything our races have faced--civil war, genocide--pale in comparison. They're an ancient race called the Primitus, and they are coming--soon. We have at most a year before they launch their assault, and unless the galaxy is prepared, we will fall. Our worlds will burn, our families will be slaughtered, and everything we know and love will be destroyed, unless we stop them. Somehow, some way.

[darthme]

--Aves--

*Ackbar shakes his head at the mention of Trebor.* Ackbar: I don't know of this Trebor, Ambassador. And from what you say of him, I'm glad I don't. My people only recently leapt onto the galactic stage, and in our brief time here, we've already received quite a few shocks. A fair and peaceful people...so were we, before the war. *He lifts the glass to his beak once again, but decides against drinking more.*

Ambassador, listen closely to what am I about to tell you. There is a threat out there, lurking among the stars, that makes everything our races have faced--civil war, genocide--pale in comparison. They're an ancient race called the Primitus, and they are coming--soon. We have at most a year before they launch their assault, and unless the galaxy is prepared, we will fall. Our worlds will burn, our families will be slaughtered, and everything we know and love will be destroyed, unless we stop them. Somehow, some way.

Xarov takes this information in stride. "But of course, Admiral. We have all heard the legends. Most races have a race similar to the Primitus in their earliest lore and history. Personally, we Gal'Gai call them dazs Lakunije, or Hellspawn. Other races, such as the Marentanz, for example, call them the Nar'eeth. The Feyari bestow the name of K'nikt-Aa upon them. I am not saying that I do not believe in them, however, I personally believe it is best to approach all myths with a certain degree of suspicion." The diplomat speaks with a matter-of-fact tone, bordering condescension. He continues, "My people have known about the Primitus ever since we first emerged. Unfortunately, most of us didn't believe in the tale and looked the other way. Now we are finally kicking our shipyards into gear, attempting to prepare as best we can for the storm ahead of us."

Xarov looks around the room before delivering his next statement.

"I should probably tell you this now. We've known about your people since before you arrived on the galactic scene because we had intelligence gathering missions going on all over this part of the galaxy. That is the reason so many despised us; we couldn't keep our prying fingers off of everything." He takes a pause, as if to gather his thoughts. "I find it best to be up front with allies, don't you? Forgive me for my deception, I only had both of our best interests in mind.
If you wish to try and weather out the coming haelstrom with us, please say so. It would seem we are both in need of allies."

Brusilov leads him to the transporter pad and Kharrov is beamed to the Federation diplomatic corps office were he is met by a old man robed in white leaning on a staff carved from ash.

"Greetings friend I am Gandalf an adviser to the immortal council It is my understanding you wish to discuss setting up and embassy and appointing an ambassador?"

"Yes, that is why I am here. Are you the one I should talk to?"

[Quantum Rain]

--Ultra Vires--

Karaed smiles slightly. "We understand that you are a cautious type, as evidenced by the reconnaissance you've seemed to have done onto us to be so familiar with us. We know of your kind, the Gal'Gai, and the other species your kind harbors, the Feyari and Marentanz, in the same manner that you know us. However, we do not have the privilege of intimately understanding your culture. I surmise that will come at the same time of your questions, no?"

[darthme]

--Ultra Vires--

Karaed smiles slightly. "We understand that you are a cautious type, as evidenced by the reconnaissance you've seemed to have done onto us to be so familiar with us. We know of your kind, the Gal'Gai, and the other species your kind harbors, the Feyari and Marentanz, in the same manner that you know us. However, we do not have the privilege of intimately understanding your culture. I surmise that will come at the same time of your questions, no?"

~Ultra Vires~

"Of course. Before any information sharing can start, however, I must ask you: what you would like to know?"

[Roach]

--Arda--

"I have all the proper clearance to provide what you seek i only need to know what type of space you require how many personnel you plan to house and whether you plan to house security forces."

[Fore Admiral Disayle]

--Aves--

Ackbar: I may as well tell him. Best to be up front with possible allies, after all. My people weren't just lucky that the Primitus did not enslave us when they ruled the galaxy before, Ambassador. According to legend, the spirit of our world fought them and stopped them from taking us. I choose to believe it, but the strength of Aves's spirit is directly tied to the planet's health and our own numbers. Both are now in bad shape, and when the Primitus invade, Aves won't be able to protect us again. *At Xarov's mention of allies, he nods.* You're right. We can build ships and machines of war. We can erect as many bases as we can, and lay enough mines to destroy an entire star system. We can fortify our worlds, set traps and ambushes, and prepare as best we can, but in the end...all that will just slow the Primitus down. The only way any of us can stop them is by uniting and facing the destroyers together.

*He pauses, sets his glass into a nearby holder, and then flies down from his perch, landing directly in front of Xarov.* We should start here, then. Ambassador Pav Xarov undul Karoja of the Second Reformed Imperium, allow me to officially extend the offer of alliance on behalf of the Galactic Avian Union. *He holds his foot out in a gesture that is becoming increasingly familiar.* Another question, Ambassador. How long has the SRI been watching us?

[Quantum Rain]

--Ultra Vires--

"We are always willing to learn whatever others offer, ambassador." Karaed replies simply. "And such knowledge will be returned in kind, but I did not answer your question, did I? Perhaps we should start with what drove you to seek us out?"

[darthme]

--Aves--

Ackbar: I may as well tell him. Best to be up front with possible allies, after all. My people weren't just lucky that the Primitus did not enslave us when they ruled the galaxy before, Ambassador. According to legend, the spirit of our world fought them and stopped them from taking us. I choose to believe it, but the strength of Aves's spirit is directly tied to the planet's health and our own numbers. Both are now in bad shape, and when the Primitus invade, Aves won't be able to protect us again. *At Xarov's mention of allies, he nods.* You're right. We can build ships and machines of war. We can erect as many bases as we can, and lay enough mines to destroy an entire star system. We can fortify our worlds, set traps and ambushes, and prepare as best we can, but in the end...all that will just slow the Primitus down. The only way any of us can stop them is by uniting and facing the destroyers together.

*He pauses, sets his glass into a nearby holder, and then flies down from his perch, landing directly in front of Xarov.* We should start here, then. Ambassador Pav Xarov undul Karoja of the Second Reformed Imperium, allow me to officially extend the offer of alliance on behalf of the Galactic Avian Union. *He holds his foot out in a gesture that is becoming increasingly familiar.* Another question, Ambassador. How long has the SRI been watching us?

~Aves~

Xarov takes the foot and shakes it affirmatively. He then nonchalantly replies, "Ever since we first emerged, about 50 years ago. Don't worry, we watched everyone we knew of. It's in our nature to be well-informed before jumping into the fray."

--Ultra Vires--

"We are always willing to learn whatever others offer, ambassador." Karaed replies simply. "And such knowledge will be returned in kind, but I did not answer your question, did I? Perhaps we should start with what drove you to seek us out?"

~Ultra Vires~

"We remembered you from the first time we emerged, about 50 or so years ago. We decided to check up on you again to formally introduce ourselves this time."

--Arda--

"I have all the proper clearance to provide what you seek i only need to know what type of space you require how many personnel you plan to house and whether you plan to house security forces."

~Arda~

"I would be staying here as ambassador for the rest of my term. Once election time rolls around, it will be uncertain if I will stay or not. The SRI does wish to keep a small detachment of guards at the embassy facility. Perhaps only 5-10 soldiers?"

[Quantum Rain]

--Ultra Vires--

"Consider yourself introduced then, ambassador." Karaed replied, a slight smile on his lips. "Still, do you think this is the best time to do so, on the eve of a possible war?" He asked, curious of the SRI's intent.

[Roach]

"very well now we need only find a space for you." Gandalf Searches through his data pad
"Ah here we are there is an abandoned Rohirrim Calvary base about two kilometers west of here ample facilities landing pads for ships its close to Minas Tirith and thus close to the free peoples senate. Needs some slight repairs but other than housing you in this overcrowded city its the best i have on this world at the moment. If yo want i can have some one show it to you."

[darthme]

--Ultra Vires--

"Consider yourself introduced then, ambassador." Karaed replied, a slight smile on his lips. "Still, do you think this is the best time to do so, on the eve of a possible war?" He asked, curious of the SRI's intent.

"Of course!" Diplomat Teklus replies. "We need allies more than ever now. We wouldn't pass for a primitive race, and I don't think the Primitus would spare us even if we did, so we can't just pull back into our shell."

"very well now we need only find a space for you." Gandalf Searches through his data pad
"Ah here we are there is an abandoned Rohirrim Calvary base about two kilometers west of here ample facilities landing pads for ships its close to Minas Tirith and thus close to the free peoples senate. Needs some slight repairs but other than housing you in this overcrowded city its the best i have on this world at the moment. If yo want i can have some one show it to you."

"Thank you, that should do nicely." Diplomat Kharrov says. "It would be nice to be out of the city, since I've lived in one my entire life."

[Quantum Rain]

"Primitus? You must be referring to the automated drones that patrol their now-extinct empire, correct?" Karaed says, raising an eyebrow in interest at Charon's words. Another being that believes that the Primitus are coming? ... interesting, but annoying.

[darthme]

"Primitus? You must be referring to the automated drones that patrol their now-extinct empire, correct?" Karaed says, raising an eyebrow in interest at Charon's words. Another being that believes that the Primitus are coming? ... interesting, but annoying.

"Either, or. The SRI can neither deny or confirm that the actual Primitus exist, but we think it wise to prepare for the worst just in case. Even if they are truly extinct, the situation is a win-win. The SRI will be in good fighting condition, and we'll have many trusted allies. We have known about the Primitus ever since first coming into the galaxy. Most of the Myths coincide with our own legends of old, as do many other culture's."

[Quantum Rain]

"Indeed, perhaps some of our scholars could make take a look themselves to confirm that, but past experience would agree with you." Karaed pauses for a moment. "So you're here for allies? Well, we can discuss the possibilities, but I suppose the first step would be an embassy, correct?"

[Roach]

--Arda--

"Not only out of the city but on of the Federation's most beautiful worlds. Now If that is all you have much to do and I should not keep you." *gandalf extends his hand.* "To the beginning of a pleasant Diplomatic relationship."

[Fore Admiral Disayle]

--Aves--

*Ackbar nods, understanding.* Ackbar: Fifty years ago, I hadn't even hatched yet, and my race was engulfed in the civil war I mentioned before. It had long since reached its height and then devolved into a bloody stalemate that every day took lives and destroyed a little more of our beloved planet. What did you think of us then, Ambassador? *He studies the Gal'Gai's face carefully in anticipation of his answer.*


--Palaven--

*Chellick nods at Roach's request.* Chellick: I will make the arrangements and have some enviro-suits brought so you can walk around without being fried to a crisp by the excess radiation. We were lucky the first time--let's not risk it again.

Fedorian: Indeed, Chellick. Let's go, then. Your Majesty?

Tiamat: I will follow.

Fedorian: Off we go, then!

*The Primarch gets the door and leads the strange troupe along the corridors of the building. They take an elevator down a few floors, walk down some more corridors, and then arrive at the Chamber of the Primarchs. A heated discussion is taking place as they walk in.*

Primarch of Invictus: ...no threat to us!

Primarch of Parthia: So you say. But I remember all too well the stories of the horrors they wrought. Would you risk repeating all that when we have no reason to trust them?!

Primarch of Taetrus: Stories and nothing more, Primarch! And we have more than enough reason to trust the Rachni--they came to our aid twice at great personal risk! They returned our people to us aboard their only ship at the time! How can you question their integrity?!

Primarch of Galatana: They returned our people to us once, yes. Why now do they hold thousands of our brothers and sisters prisoner, then? If they are so trustworthy, let them return all our people!

*Fedorian sighs and shakes his head, whispering in an undertone to Roach.* Fedorian: We've been at this for weeks, trying to shame, threaten, bully, trick, bribe, bargain with, or coerce away enough elements of the war faction to break their strangehold over the peace process. Nothing has worked yet, and if our plan doesn't either, I have a whole slew of long days to look forward to.

Primarch of Kargul: Let's have a vote. All in favor of beginning negotiations with the Rachni Hive to end the war?

*Many hands rise, but clearly not enough, as the measure is stalled. Once again. Afterwards, the debate resumes, only to break off again as Fedorian returns to his position as High Primarch with Tiamat behind him.*

Fedorian: Your Eminences, I beg your pardon, but Her Majesty, Queen Tiamat I the Reborn of the Rachni Hive, is here to present a new proposal.

*The hubbub slows, though many jeer as Fedorian stops back and Tiamat stands before the Primarchs.*

Primarch of Parthia (contemptuous): Hello again, your Majesty. I thought you said you were going to kill us if you ever saw us again?

Tiamat: If it would end the war-song and allow my people to finally live in peace, I would gladly do so. However, I see an alternate path--one that facilitates the cool song of love, not the silence of death.

Primarch of Edessan: Really? And would that involve--I don't know--returning those of my people who you hold prisoner on your hot, stinking planet?

Tiamat: It gives me no joy to hold these singers against their will, especially knowing that I once counted them as friends. But they are all that stands between us and your war-songs. *Pause.* However, I wish to forge a new song--one that looks ahead rather than back. Primarchs of... *She addresses a significant portion of the "Moderate" party of the war faction.* ...if you will support negotiating a peace, your people will come home before we sign any treaty.

*Her proposal almost instantly generates a muted uproar of muttering. The Moderates' faces light up at the prospect of seeing their people returned home to their families, while the Zealots are flabbergasted and outraged at being so outmaneuvered. There is little they can do, however, as the Moderates leave them in droves. Once it is over, the war faction is reduced to tatters, and when Fedorian calls for another vote on negotiations, the measure overwhelmingly passes. Tiamat lets out the Rachni equivalent of a relieved sigh.*

Tiamat: ...at last...at last...soon, I will be home again, and the Great Singers may finally leave in peace...

*Her thoughts are interrupted by Fedorian heartily clapping her on the back.* Fedorian: Well done, your Majesty! You played that perfectly! I've never seen a more shrewd politician!

Tiamat: I believe the correct response in your language is, "Thank you, High Primarch." How do we conduct ourselves now?

Fedorian: We're selecting our negotiators now. I'm sorry, I must attend to matters now that the peace process has finally started. *He strides off toward the exit to the chamber, calling over his shoulder.* I'll send Chellick down to help you coordinate your strategy!

*Soon, Tiamat and the Immortal Council are alone in the now-deserted chamber.*

Tiamat: I am afraid I know little of this kind of song. War-song Leader Roach, what is the next step in peace? And what should we do for it?

[Roach]

Roach: "Peace can only come if the immortal council can once again trust the Turians as friends and we no longer see them as a threat to you. Then we simply need to draw up a Treaty that benefits all parties in some and hopefully we can all receive and pay war reparations to the families of those who lost their lives after peace is set up then we enter into negotiations for other diplomatic programs such as foreign aid and trade and mutual defense pacts such things are prevalent for saving face with the populace. After all that we hope we can begin trading military technology the free peoples technology is superior to the Turians and we need all of our allies ready for when the Primutus strike."

Kane: "Do not worry your grace we shall make a fine diplomat out of you yet."

Putin: "At least we don't have to teach her to be a warrior she has proved her abilities there."

[Quantum Rain]

After Lae left, Lara turned back to Rain. "I don't want to hear it." Rain said, a little harshly and irritated. "I know what you're going to say, 'you shouldn't do that to him.'" He stands up straight, looking from the hologram to Lara now. "Then you must know me too well..." She replied bitterly. "..." Rain walks to the door, stopping right next to Lara. "I don't trust him, I don't like him, he shouldn't be here, especially with that mouth and mind of his." "That's what they said about us at the start..." She shot back, Rain remained silent, remembering what she meant. "Perhaps..." He said, then walked out, not saying a further word.

Lae would begin walking around the local area in the city, knowing he had an hour before they had to head off to fight again. He would walk through damaged and deserted buildings. He stopped in a ruined restaurant, seeing that there were still drinks on some tables half-full. Left in a hurry, obviously. He thought to himself. He would stay on alert, however, in case they had missed some enemies hiding out in the buildings.

The man from before, the one that lead the Regnum Squad, was at the far end, sitting on a table by himself. He seemed to be distracted by his own thoughts as he stared blankly at an empty, ruined wall at the opposite end of the room. He didn't acknowledge Lae's presence at all.

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