Guiding bridges

Praesidium of the Citadel | Citadel Tower

- Good morning. - Tevos sat down at the table and began to massage her temples. She had been showing up more and more tired lately.

- Not enough sleep again? - Quentius, the new Turian representative appointed after the terrible accident that killed the previous advisor, was as polite and calm as ever. Nothing seemed to disturb his composure.

- He had just finished with the information about the Terran ships at Omega. What were they doing there anyway? - She shook her head and seemed to recover. - According to the information, almost a fleet of them were there. Still, it was fifth-hand information, so it was problematic to believe, especially for the people of Terminus.

- It's not our territory, and we can't accuse them of anything. You never know what's flying around. - The Turian returned to his Omni.

- Where's Valern? We're at a conference about the Empire. - Azari whirled around, searching his eyes for the Salarian.

- He had been summoned by Dalatress and would return shortly. - The two advisors returned to their studies and waited for their colleague. A few minutes later, he appeared.

- Sorry for the wait. - Valern quickly sat at his desk and placed a clipboard before him. - I have some information about Omega.

- Anything new? - The two advisors stared at him.

- Not really, more of a confirmation. There was a Salarian SPECTRE on Omega at the time, and the equipment on his ship could give real information about them. There was indeed an Imperial fleet there that had 'jumped' through the relay to the centre.

- Even better! - Azari rolled her eyes and sat back in her chair. - Was that it? They jumped, and that was the end of it?

- According to our information, we need help understanding their technology, so I don't know what happened next.

- I wish we had that..." she murmured softly.

- "Yes, that would be good. - The Turian replied, "Well, I suggest we get on with the important things; that's why we're here.

- Agreed. - Tevos moved closer to the table. - Let's start with the information about the Empire. Who wants to start?

- Not much, very little. We've sent several of our newest scout frigates out, but only one has made contact. They say they've chased them around all the systems for about a week. They have not even had time to reach any inhabited planets. The others seem to have caught up," he said sadly. - They detect them, not immediately, but they detect them.

- No sign of them at all? - Azari looked worriedly at the Salarian because she assumed the mountain must have some information.

- I have pictures of the trading station, Olympus, as they call it. But there's nothing really important there, apart from the decorations in the guest area and the usual terminals. - There were a few more pictures on the table, showing the station's interior, to which the Citadel's inhabitants had been given access.

- Everyone has enough of that. - Azari began drumming her fingers on the table. - Then, we'll move on to the theories. Thessia's Central Analysis Section has compiled a report on the Empire based on what they have learned during the war. - The Turian looked at Tevos with interest. The Hierarchy had kept information about the fighting secret. Still, the fact that it had fallen into the hands of the Azari was no longer a big deal. They were all on the same ship now. - Judging by the number of their ships in the invasion and those that met Jasniya, their fleet theoretically outnumbered our combined fleet by three or four. Possibly more, but that cannot yet be determined.

- Their superiority is less in numbers than in space combat doctrine and ship classes. The Hierarchy has data from the systems of the wrecked ships, which clearly shows how the wreckage of their cruisers scattered after being hit by a dreadnought's GC.

- Any cruiser can take a hit from a dreadnought's GK. - Valerie grinned.

- But that's not the problem. - The screen changed to show a dreadnought many times longer than the Durian dreadnoughts. - As we learned from bits and pieces of information on the station, this ship, called the Imperial Battleship, is the backbone of the squadron, the headquarters, the squadron base and so on - the mobile fortress. Its defences we have not been able to penetrate..." Quentin was silent momentarily but soon 'back in this world' and continued. - These ships form the backbone of the fleet; with the others, we can fight more or less on equal terms.

- Incredible power..." the Azari whispered as she watched the battle tape. - Do we have anything to counter it?

- Only dreadnoughts. The Primarch has ordered all dreadnoughts to be deactivated and returned to the Cortex.

- That's a violation of the treaty! - Tevos frowned.

- The Primarch no longer cares about the treaty; the Hierarchy has lost the war. That means all restrictions have gone to the ghosts. And our analysts predict that when the fighting starts, we can break through their defences fairly quickly, as their forces are spread all along the border, unlike ours.

- The Alliance also believes this is the only way to level the playing field. Sur'Kesh will also resume dreadnought production.

- Aren't you afraid of what that might lead to? - The advisor glanced from one ambassador to the other. - What if they pull their forces back to the outpost or launch a pre-emptive strike?

- Times are hard, so we have no choice. Because of the Empire's "abrupt" entry into Space, weapons and other equipment sales have skyrocketed. The gangs in Terminus have increased, requiring additional troops to be sent to the border. And I'm not even talking about the economic crisis that almost started because of the price of Terran minerals. Only the fact that they sell in bulk and not very much has saved them from collapse. - Quentin fidgeted in his chair, a hand on his head. - No unrest yet, but the growth of the army and Navy is hard enough to hide.

The councillors sat silently for a few minutes, looking at the councillor who had her face covered in her palms, pondering something. Soon she sat up and opened her eyes.

- I'll pass on the suggestion to the Council of Matriarchs. It may be the only way.

- But I am against war. - The Turian spoke up and crossed his arms over his chest. The others looked at him in surprise.

- Since when do Turians not want war? - Valern moved even closer.

- We should not all be treated the same. Just because I am a Turian does not mean that I want more death. - The councillor closed his eyes. "We must make friends with the Empire; no new conflict will come to nothing.

- Still, it's strange to hear you say that. - Tevos smiled. - We had planned to send ambassadors to the Empire but were wary of your reaction. Can we resume the programme if everyone agrees?

- I agree that Primarch has given permission to negotiate, albeit reluctantly.

- I also support it. If only for the sake of peace.

- I hear you. I'll invite their embassy with a brief outline of our proposal. Let's meet in a week, and then we will have time to prepare the room for negotiations. - After the advisors nodded, the Azari rose from the table. - That will be all, then. Have a good day. - She turned and headed for the exit, simultaneously typing something on her omni.

Imperial Embassy | The Citadel

- So they are proposing another meeting? - The hologram showed a warrior in full armour sitting on a throne.

- Yes, my lord. I am currently in the Citadel, so I can come to the meeting. - The warrior in the image was clearly lost in thought. - Is something troubling you?

- I didn't expect them to decide to meet so soon. It is very sudden. - After a few seconds of silence, the image continued. - I assume I know their proposals.

- Then I will agree to the meeting. Are there any special instructions?

- Yes. I will contact you during the negotiations, and I will also be present. I won't be able to attend in person.

- Has something happened?

- We've had two Segmentum rebels at the border. Looks like you have yet to find all the rats, Legatus.

- Allow me to make amends, my lord! Negotiations can wait. - The warrior reached for his sword, but the image stopped him.

- It is not your fault; according to the Sentinel, the rebellion is based on the fear of the destruction of several planets. You are aware of the incident, are you not?

- Yes, Emperor. I am aware of the tragedy.

- Well, the common folk are in the dark because there's still so much we don't understand, and we don't want to panic the Empire. But there are rumours on the border that this is how we deal with all guilty planets. And now these outsiders are out.

- I believe in the power of the Empire, my lord. - The Legate returned his sword to its sheath and bowed.

- And it will hold. You're needed here for now. Negotiations with the Citadel are as important to us as the integrity of the Empire. It is not profitable for us to keep troops on the border; the maintenance of the battleships alone costs millions of tonnes of fuel and other necessities.

- I see your point, Emperor. Then I will give my answer to the Council today.

- I will await word from you. - The image began to fade and soon disappeared.

- I will do your will. - The warrior stared at the silent projector for a few moments, then disappeared into the dimness of the office.

One week later | The Citadel Presidium

The entire ambassadorial district was sealed off by both Citadel and Imperial troops. The latter controlled the approaches to the Tower itself, checking everyone with almost X-Ray precision. Several SPEKTRs had arrived, and the defence fleet concentrated around the Presidium ring. All these measures were necessary to ensure that the negotiations, so vital for the nations, would go off without a hitch or an accident. After all, there had already been several attempts to infiltrate the Empire's embassy, but they had all failed.

- I greet you all today! - Tevos rose from the table and smiled. - Especially you. - She looked in the Legatus' direction, and he nodded back with a smile. The Thurian and Salarian advisors did little more than offer brief greetings.

- We are gathered here today to discuss relations between our nations, as the current state of affairs is not to the advantage of either of us.

- The Empire agrees. - The Legatus speaks, clasping his hands together and resting his head. - The Emperor sees no reason for hostility.

- Then, we should follow the list of questions for clarity. - With the agreement of all present, Azari picked up a clipboard and examined the items. - Let's start with the ability to move through the territories. Can we open the borders to the peoples of the Empire?

- Mmm, there isn't any problem with that, except for the desire of the citizens of the Empire themselves. Terra Imperialis would be interested in links with the Citadel and want to go into Space or start commercial activities here. The Holy Race does not leave the confines of the Core, let alone the borders of the Empire. And the Quarian Imperialists probably won't, given the way they've been treated in the past.

- Quarian... - is that Quarian? - The Azari looked at the Terran ambassador in surprise.

- Yes, her race joined the Empire about a year ago. They abandoned their attempts to return home after disastrous battles with the Synthetics, after which the Emperor granted them the Perseus Segment, where they now reside.

- This is... very unexpected. - Quentin showed his surprise this time. - We searched all over the nebula, but all we found was debris and emptiness. We thought they'd gone into unexplored areas, but here we are.

- Well... I hope for a new relationship with them on behalf of all of Space. - Azari pulled herself together and looked at the tablet again.

- I will convey your hope to the Prefect of Shaal; their attitude depends on her decision.

- Then, we will soon begin building border stations.

- Preferably near Olympus, Councillors. The Adepts believe it's the best place in the region to develop space infrastructure. The Empire is also happy with anything else; we have no objections.

- Very well. Let's move on to military operations and expansion. All countries in Spaceland have a treaty on special operations and mutual military assistance. Any nation's ship or fleet must respond to a distress call if civilians are threatened. Joint raids can also occur in Terminus to destroy large bands of pirates and other criminal elements.

- No question about it. In an emergency, our VCs will help you. Or the Merchant House security fleets will. Expansion is more difficult. The Empire is mostly expanding in the other direction, and a war with Space is neither interesting nor profitable for us. Perseus may be expanding into the Terminus systems. Still, the Empire's development is separate from yours, and we know your settlement plans.

- Glad to hear it. Are there any questions? - The two councillors just shook their heads, watching the dialogue carefully. - Then, let's move on to trade. Is there any chance of new terminals and routes being opened?

- The Emperor will give his approval to the trading houses. It's up to them to decide, but it's quite possible. Trading with you is very profitable for them, and the turnover is quite small because of the one terminal allowed.

- We will discuss the matter with the heads of the trading houses later. - With a nod of agreement from the Imperial, the councillor continued. - One last question. - She sighed and continued. - We would like to sign a technical cooperation treaty for the mutual development of technology. This request comes from all of Space.

At these words, the Legate leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms over his chest, staring at one point, clearly thinking about something. The other advisors stared at him, waiting for his answer. So minute after minute passed, and the man sat motionless, only occasionally moving his lips.

- You see," after ten minutes of silence, his voice came out very loud and harsh. - This is a very difficult request. Imperial technology is the pride of the entire Empire, and its development is entirely the merit of the Emperor and the Adepts. This organisation is shrouded in mystery to all state citizens, and they have maintained a monopoly on the technological part of the Empire for thousands of years. The answer to this request can only come from them. I'll contact the Arch-Fabricator and the Collegium but expect something normal. They won't reveal their secrets unless it's the Emperor's will.

- That's a pity. - A slight sadness appeared on the Azari Councillor's face. The others could have been happier too.

- I will let you know if I can agree with the Fabricator. - The Legate said with a straight face. - Anything else?

- That's all for now; we'll discuss the details tomorrow. For now, the contracts have to be signed.

Soon all papers were signed and approved, and the advisors congratulated each other on the successful negotiations.

- Legatus, excuse me. - The man turned to the Azari. - I would like to speak to the press. Otherwise, we will all be eaten alive if we do not reveal the reason for the negotiations. If you wish, of course.

- I see no reason to refuse; I have no special plans for today. - The man walked off behind the Azari, escorted by legionnaires. At the same time, outside the crowd of station dwellers and every possible journalist could be heard. The sound of cameras, cars and everything else is the final part of any great event...

Segmentum Persei | Ajas Forge under construction

- So. You have excellent grades in almost all subjects. Good feedback from all teachers, even Master Rikaas! - The adept turned his gaze to the young woman in the new imperial light armour. The Imperial insignia glowed brightly from the many lamps illuminating the office. - I am completely surprised. You could say you're the first person to ever do that.

- He's a good man; we've done much practical repair work together. And he is a very interesting man to talk to. - The girl answered clearly.

- The old man has found an interlocutor who doesn't run away after a few minutes. - The Adept grinned and turned back to his file. - Have you had an internship yet?

- Yes, I have. Master Rikaas signed me up for a month on the cruiser Mercury, where I worked as an engineer in the reactor section. The Captain's report is attached.

- Yes, I can see that. No remarks, but a lot of praise from the Captain, describing you as an excellent specialist. - The girl was slightly embarrassed, and a slight blush appeared. - Now, one last thing... an irregularity in handling the mechanisms was noticed. - Her gaze slowly shifted to the girl, and she looked into her eyes.

All joy and embarrassment instantly vanished from her face, replaced by concentration and clenched fists. At the beginning of her training, she had had some conflicts because of her irregularity, sometimes missing certain rituals or approaching creation or repair from a slightly different angle. And this was clearly regulated by the Principles of Mechanics. And if she were to be rejected, everything else would be irrelevant. Her dreams would crumble.

Concentrating, she stared into her handler's eyes and waited for the verdict. There was silence for a few minutes, and then the adept continued.

- Theoretically, I should send you for retraining," the student was about to exhale and leave the office, but the Mechanicus continued. - But I want to make sure your dream is fulfilled. Besides, it would be foolhardy to send someone of your calibre anywhere else. You have completed training and will be assigned to the 56th Raider Fleet built on Terra. The new ships need a relatively small crew, and you'll be in great demand there. - The eyes of the station were already shining, so congratulations on joining the ranks of the Hordo Mechanicus.

- I serve the Emperor! - The girl pounded her fist into her chest and straightened up even more.

- Then here are your papers for transfer to the Navy and confirmation of the rank of Adept. - Several sheets of paper passed into the girl's hands, and she clasped them to her chest with trembling hands. - You'll get the rest from the quartermaster; you can go. - Just as she was about to disappear behind the door, the curator's voice overtook her.

- Good day to you, Tali'Zora, you Rannoch. - The girl smiled, then quickly ducked out of the door. And the Adept turned and walked to the large window that overlooked the factories, bridges, roads and other structures being built across the planet. - Something tells me you'll have an interesting destiny...