Adult-FanFiction.org : Games

Marked Effect (AFF Edition)	By : unrealuniverse Category: +M through R > Mass Effect Views: 22185 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: Mass Effect characters, species, locations and the universal setting are owned by Bioware and not myself. Any other brand names mentioned are property of their respective owners. This work is and always will be free for anyone to read.

Chapter List
- 32
- 33
- 34
Chapter 33 - Citadel
Monday 30th January 2017
-------
"Morning Sam." Amistathya waking to find Sam sat up seemingly pondering something.
"Did you sleep well?"
"I did. I am guessing that you did not?"
"It was not too bad but something bugged me when I woke up last time and I have not been able to sleep since."
"Could I ask what?"
"Usually a bitter taste is to either protect a plant from being eaten or to warn of a toxin. I am not sure how it works out here in the grand scheme of things but you do not look like a plant."
"My slightly bitter saliva is caused by damage to a specific set of cells in my body which allow Asari to metabolise element zero to reduce its potential toxicity. My body now only partially completes the process leaving element zero compounds in my blood. I have been told it will cause me no harm but I will just drink a little more than a normal. I am not sure if it would cause any problems to you."
"How toxic is element zero?" Sam starting to wonder if he should be worried.
"It does not cause any harm in Turians and Salarians in small quantities such as you usually find in food and drink on Thessia. Quite how relevant that is to Humans I do not know."
"What about larger quantities?"
"It tends to attack the nervous system with fibrous growths appearing on the nerves. These depending on the individual may only grow slowly and not really affect them or they can be essentially benign cancers which can kill in a few years."
"I wonder if there is any way of safely testing tolerances."
"I do not want you to offer yourself for testing Sam. You will end up as a test subject if you do that."
"If element zero is considered potentially toxic then surely clinics will have diagnostic equipment to test for it?"
"I would assume so. My point still stands however Sam."
"When I was last on the citadel I met a very pleasant doctor called Thalmara. Actually her clinic is on this ward if I remember correctly. I am sure she would help out if she could."
"Sam, please understand they will want to know everything about you if you go."
"Would you be happier if we had a talk with her first? I could not imagine her doing anything I did not want. I just want to know quite how safe going to Thessia and eating Asari food is."
"You do know you can get food with the element zero removed on Thessia?"
"You can get that everywhere?"
"Not really outside of the tourist areas."
"If element zero is not a big problem then I would not be bothered about having to find element zero free food, which no doubt costs more."
"You have a point. Will you only agree if I feel happy with this doctor?"
"Of course. I would just feel happier knowing for sure it was not going to harm me, thank you Ami for understanding." Sam shuffles over and gives the sombre Asari a hug. "I think breakfast would be an idea." Sam strokes Amistathya on her folds which seems to make her a little happier.
"Before breakfast I should tell you that some Asari find shortening names highly offensive, less so however if the shortened name also follows convention. Athya did follow this Ami does not."
"I will not use it if you find it offensive as it was only a suggestion. Also you may not have been thinking all that well when you responded last night. I did not know it was against Asari social rules." Amistathya blushes slightly.
"From you Sam I find you calling me Ami endearing and not in any way offensive. I am not sure how I would react to anyone else calling me that though."
"That makes me feel special, thank you." She nods with a smile. "It also makes me hungry." Amistathya laughs a little before getting out of bed. The two of them walk to their bags in the corner of the room to get some clothes for the day.
------
"I think we could do with a break like Sam at some point." Kate getting a bit tired of always going to work and Sam being off somewhere.
"Perhaps in a few weeks Kate." Fosanta looks at her Omni-tool which has just beeped at her.
Fosanta,
The shower was really eventful and seems to have brought us both together a bit more. I also learned something else about the unique one which is a bit weird. It got me thinking though quite how toxic element zero is to humans. I was going to see doctor Thalmara (person who looked at Adastra's burns) to see if she had any ideas.
I hope you have a good day.
Sam
"Actually that is a good question."
"What is a good question Fosanta?" Adastra and Seliha walking into the kitchen.
"How dangerous eezo is for humans Adastra."
"That is a big problem?" Kate looking at Fosanta.
"It depends Kate. Most Asari food especially on Thessia contains trace amounts. You have probably noticed in the Skylounge that some foods will have mark next to them, this means they may contain eezo." Kate tries to think if she has ever ordered anything that was marked.
"Trace amounts are considered harmless to everyone Kate. It is usually advised if your species cannot metabolise it that it is avoided if possible."
"Thank you Seliha. So Sam thought this might be an issue for him?"
"Well he did spend a few days on Thessia Kate. He probably did not specifically look for eezo free food but it should not have harmed him. Adastra he is going to see doctor Thalmara about it."
"Oh, she was very pleasant. It is just whether she can do the tests or not."
------
"Where are we off to today?" Hymara walking into the living area from their bedroom with Lianta following.
"Well I had a sudden realisation about something this morning. It is up to Ami when we go but personally I would prefer it earlier than later. Then it is up to sky blue as to where to go."
"Sam, you do know people have been killed for shortening names?" Lianta being a little sharp.
"It is ok Lianta, Ami said she was perfectly happy for me to do so." Lianta looks to Amistathya who nods with a bit of a smile.
"I would really prefer if you used Amistathya's full name, at least in front of others Sam. I think Lianta and I are rather tolerant but if anyone else can hear it is something you defiantly do not do."
"Do you two find it angers you to hear me shorten Amistathya's name?"
"I have killed several people who called me Lia Sam. I even knocked out one individual I was meant to be protecting for using it."
"I did not know how strong the feelings were. I apologise, I will try to keep it private."
"I appreciate it. Could you explain a bit better what we are doing today?" Sam looks to Amistathya who nods.
"Well Amistathya gave me a kiss in the shower yesterday and I noticed her mouth tasted slightly bitter. It was not a bad taste but it got me thinking. On my planet bitter things tend to be plants which do not want you to eat them or toxins. Well after asking Amistathya this morning she has said she can not properly metabolise element zero. That got me wondering, how toxic it is for humans?"
"Actually that is a good question." Lianta wondering why this had not come up earlier.
"I did not want Sam to go but he convinced me doctor Thalmara was a trustworthy individual."
"Amistathya, she is the nicest person you will probably meet. She has treated me on a couple of occasions; she is very good with gun shot wounds. I would recommend going earlier on today as they tend to get progressively busier as the day goes on." Hymara knowing how it tends to work given she has visited on multiple occasions.
"Ok. Could we go to the presidium at some time as I have not been before?"
"Of course Amistathya."
------
It is not too long before the four of them are walking towards the clinic. It was about a forty minute walk but Amistathya insisted she wanted to walk and will cope with her nervousness as she wished to see the Citadel. Sam didn't mind given they had plenty of time and it was not as if it was an emergency.
"Why do I have a feeling we are gathering journalists as we walk along." Sam commenting just loud enough for the three others to hear. Lianta has a look back and notices two individuals that seemed to be following them.
"You could well be correct Sam. It is going to be a constant problem on the Citadel because of it being the central hub for galactic news there are a lot of journalists."
"As long as they do not ask me questions, or start bad rumours about me then I do not care."
"That would be the best way to treat them Sam. When they get bored, they will move on." Hymara delivering her advice as yet another individual moves out of their way.
It is only a few minutes more before they enter the clinic. The same receptionist was on the desk that was on when Sam visited last. She seemed less shocked this time which Sam was a bit happier about given he had long since got bored of the stares.
"Good morning. Could I ask what the problem is?" Sam smiling a little with the fact he did not have to mention his name given he was the only male human. The journalists seemed to be amassing within line of sight off the medical centre's door.
"I am here more for medical advice. I was wondering if doctor Thalmara would be willing to help me out."
"Luckily we are not too busy this morning. I guess you may have to wait half an hour or so." Sam looks to Amistathya who nods then the two commandos who shrug.
"That sounds ok for us."
"Take a seat and she will see you when she is free." Sam nods and the three of them go to sit down in the empty waiting room.
------
Twenty minutes of looking at the white walls had made Sam quite bored. There was a Salarian who came in with a dislocated shoulder which seemed to look painful. He was quickly called in to the emergency room by another of the doctors.
"I am really going to get some games for my Omni-tool." Sam thinking he is probably going to have to write sudoku, tetris and minesweaper himself.
"It is not that bad is it?"
"I quickly get depressed if my brain has nothing to work on Hymara." Thalmara approaches from their left.
"It is good to meet you again Sam."
"I would rather I did not have to come but it is good to see a friendly face." Thalmara laughs a little.
"Who is your friend Sam?"
"This is Amistathya. Could we go somewhere a bit more private Thalmara?"
"Of course Sam. It is good to meet you Amistathya." Amistathya nods. "Follow me please." The four of them follow Thalmara through a door into a corridor, then into the second room on the left. Sam noticing it saying large consulting room on the door. Inside it was indeed spacious with ample seats, there was no desk which surprised Sam but there was a small table in the corner with a potted plant on it.
"So what brought you to meet me today Sam?"
"I hope you do not have to run off in five minutes as it is quite a lengthy story."
"I will only have to leave if we get lots of emergencies arriving. I hope you understand and appreciate why."
"Of course. I hope that everything in here is kept private as the journalists are seemingly keen today."
"It is Sam. Anything said or done is confidential unless it will harm anyone else."
"Well Amistathya was not particularly happy with me coming today. She thinks given I am a bit of an unknown some people may want to run a silly number of tests to try and know everything about me."
"I apologise for asking but are you and Sam fairly close Amistathya?" She looks across to Sam before nodding with a smile.
"Could I ask you how you met Sam?" Sam wondered for a moment why she was asking Amistathya these questions.
"We met on Thessia while I was at Galactic Acceptance." Thalmara seemed to consider that answer for a few moments.
"I deeply apologise for prying Amistathya but would you be willing to enlighten me as to what your symptoms are?"
"Could I ask why you ask?"
"You have some extremely faint scarring close to your eyes. You also are wearing gloves which tends to be to cover something on the skin. Your muscles also do not quite look as robust as I would expect. I apologise if you find my curiosity offensive, however those observations are concerning me a little."
"It is up to you Amistathya." Sam answering her looking towards him. Amistathya sighs.
"I cannot digest protein properly so I am assuming that could cause the muscles to be a little weaker. I also cannot meld with most people, not that I can anyway given I am on the dangerous list. I cannot taste anything as well." Thalmara looks a little intrigued by that admission. "The scarring is from having my skin chemically burnt." Sam thought he saw Thalmara go a shade greyer.
"You sound remarkably unlucky Amistathya. My sympathies."
"No need Thalmara, I have learned to live with my past."
"Is there anything else as you seem very pleasant and kind but you seem to be holding something back. I will not judge you Amistathya." Sam was wondering whether buttering Amistathya up was the best way to make her more comfortable. Amistathya looks to Sam.
"You really need to say yourself Amistathya. Thalmara will not kill you for saying." Amistathya gave Sam a stop being difficult face. "I really need more practice in patience. You are never going to gain confidence Amistathya if you keep asking me." Amistathya just shrugs. "Thalmara Amistathya has natural markings like Adastra. That is what is hidden by the gloves."
"Are you ashamed of yourself Amistathya?" Amistathya nods. Sam was wondering when this was going to get around to the reason why he wanted to come.
"Just a couple more questions but I need you to be truthful Amistathya. Were you always so ashamed of yourself?" Sam wondered quite what was going on in Thalmara's head.
"No. I have always warn gloves and been shy however."
"If I asked if I could see your markings what are your thoughts?" Amistathya seemed to close up. "Amistathya I do not want you to show me anything. I just wish to know what you are feeling."
"I am suspicious as to why you want to see, if you do what your reaction would be and what you would do with the knowledge afterwards."
"I apologise for the questions but I wished to work out whether it was a chemical imbalance or your past. Sorry Amistathya." Amistathya nods. "My apologies for the deviation Sam. Please continue."
"I was curious as to how toxic or not element zero was to humans."
"You were not tested when you arrived?"
"No Thalmara. It might have been because we left the Citadel ahead of schedule I do not know. I believe the other human, Kate, also missed out on a psychological evaluation."
"I am confused as to why you have just thought of this?" Sam looks to Amistathya who gives a small nod.
"Well when myself and Amistathya kissed last night her mouth tasted a little bitter. I asked Amistathya this morning if she knew why that was the case for her. She said she does not metabolise element zero fully which is how the question came up."
"I think you are the most complicated person medically, I have met for a number of years Amistathya. I need to ask, have been in a hospital lately?"
"About three weeks ago."
"I am relieved about that. It can be difficult for people who only have the partial metabolisation of element zero to balance the blood pH. If the individual cannot maintain a balance then it can cause rather rapid kidney failure."
"You mean she has another symptom that is helping?" Sam asking curiously.
"My personal theory Amistathya is you have multiple imbalances just about balancing. Asari have a rather strange interaction between various chemical processes and their ability to meld as well which might be why you cannot with most people. Do you find it difficult to attempt to meld Amistathya?"
"Yes, it is a bit difficult at the start although I have always been like that."
"Could I ask if you have connected with Sam? I will not mention that you have to anyone given it is illegal." Amistathya and Sam look at each other before both nodding at Thalmara. "Sam did you find the neural instability a bit worse than usual?"
"Yes I did." Sam was thoroughly intrigued at this point as to where this was going.
"Amistathya do you find you have a need to drink fairly often?"
"More often than I used to."
"I believe a small nitrogen supplement would make you more comfortable Amistathya. You may also find it a little easier to concentrate for periods of time. It may also reduce your bitter saliva a little although it will not eliminate it." Amistathya seemed a little amazed. Sam gave her a smile.
"Thank you Thalmara."
"No problem Amistathya. I will sort you out with what you need at the end." Amistathya nods. "Sam. The test can only be done accurately in a medical lab and even then it is a bit of a guess. Usually I have no way to do a basic test but today is different, that is if Amistathya would be willing to part with a urine sample."
"What for?"
"The partially metabolised element zero Amistathya. If Sam is unable to metabolise it then it will raise the amount of alkaline compounds in his urine. If he can then I will see fully metabolised element zero."
"Can you not use element zero?"
"No Hymara. If Sam is unable to metabolise it then it will collect in his body and only be excreted slowly over the next month or so, all the time causing potential damage."
"So the partially metabolised variant does not stay in the system?"
"Typically it takes about a week since it is water soluble Sam. It is also slightly less aggressive than the non-metabolised variant so is less likely to cause harm. It may make your tongue feel a little cool but given it will only be a trace amount then I expect no other side effects. Are you both ok with proceeding?"
"I am ok if Amistathya is." Amistathya nods.
"Please excuse me for a moment." Thalmara leaves the room.
"I see you were impressed at her ability to work out what you would be better off with Amistathya. She never even touched you or saw any of your records either."
"I will see if it does make a difference but I am rather impressed." Thalmara reappears carrying three sealable plastic jars, two which were about pint sized and a much smaller one.
"I would appreciate it if you could both try to fill these about half full. Do not worry if you cannot manage that." Thalmara gives Sam and Amistathya one pint pot each. "The toilets are left out of the door, three doors down." Sam nods and leaves with Amistathya following. "Are you two well?"
"I cannot complain Thalmara. Sam seems to be the most active individual out of the Enlighten crew which keeps myself and Lianta fairly busy."
"I would probably be very bored if I was contracted to any of the others. Adastra may not be too bad since she also has a close friend."
"How did Adastra's burns heal?"
"Sam would be the best person to ask Thalmara as we have not even seen her body." Hymara answering as best she can.
"I must ask but have you seen Amistathya's markings?"
"She showed us her hands on the way to the Citadel from Illium. I was rather disappointed that she felt she had to keep them hidden as they do look remarkably pleasing." Lianta showing her annoyance for society seeing it as a bad thing.
"I am not even a fan of art and I found her hands oddly likeable." Sam reappears with his pot just over half full.
"I know it is a bit more than you wanted but there was only a bit left." Sam handing Thalmara the pot.
"That is fine Sam. I really did not want that much from you but I did not want Amistathya thinking I was treating her differently. I remember reading that was a big part of what happened with Adastra."
"Amistathya is not the same as Adastra Thalmara. She seems to want to be seen as different which confused me a little as well at first."
"That is good to know Sam." Amistathya walks in holding an exactly half full pot.
"Did you keep stopping and checking if it was half full?" Sam teasing her a little.
"Maybe." Sam laughs a little.
"I appreciate your help Amistathya. If you could all excuse me for a few minutes I need to get everything ready." Thalmara walks out of the room with the two pots.
"Well this is going to be one of the strangest things I have ever done."
"I am confused Sam."
"I will practically be drinking Amistathya's urine Hymara. The concept just seems a bit, not normal. That reminds me I could do with messaging Adastra."
"How did that remind you to message Adastra Sam?"
"No idea Amistathya. I think I will do it later as I see a lot of sitting around coming up." Sam looks at Amistathya's confused face. "What? You should know that sometimes my mind makes random detours. I need to message her about the large thruster design."
"Adastra did not seem too convinced by the idea."
"I do not blame her as a twenty metre diameter thruster is quite a ridiculous size. That is until you see the size of the hanger then I think it is about proportional."
"Did I hear that correctly Sam?"
"Yes Lianta, twenty metres. We need something which will move a silly amount of air."
"I would have thought you might have tried something a bit more conventional."
"You mean like an electrostatic speaker?" Lianta nods. "I thought it might be too difficult making a twenty five metre square sheet lightweight but rigid enough so it did not sag in the middle." Thalmara reappears into the room carrying a plastic cup.
"You have a point Sam."
"I apologise if I am interrupting. Sam, I would appreciate you drinking this. I have removed most of the waste products but I must warn you it may still taste a little unpleasant." Thalmara gives Sam the cup which Sam has a smell at first. He could smell a slight urine odour but it was very weak.
"You said to expect my mouth to feel cold?"
"It may taste a little cooler than it is Sam. There are other possible side effects as well. I would like you to stay here so I can keep an eye on you but I do not expect anything else to happen."
"Sounds sensible to me." Sam thinks it is better if he drinks it in one so he does so. The cooler feel seemed to take the edge off the urine aftertaste a little. "Well that was strange."
"Sam, I would like you not to drink anything else for an hour." Sam nods. "What was most intriguing was the fact your urine was fairly similar in composition to that of an Asari."
"I guess that could help you get a rough idea of what is happening then."
"It should Sam. Before I sort out Amistathya could I ask you how Adastra is?"
"It was not too long before she was back to her usual self again. Her skin seems to have healed well."
"I am glad to hear that. Amistathya I was thinking of something simple you could use instead of a tablet as it is both a little inconvenient and quite difficult to get the same product on other worlds. I am sure you have seen the bottled water, Aguate."
"Yes it is practically everywhere."
"It is and there are a number of nitrates in that water which would be suitable as a replacement for you. It is just a matter of swapping out water in drinks for that."
"So you mean if you have to dilute something with water you use that instead of tap water."
"Exactly my point Sam. It also would be fine to drink it on its own if you are going to be unable to prepare drinks yourself. You only need about half a litre a day." Amistathya looks to Sam.
"I think it is a good idea but it is entirely up to you. I would to with sending this message to Adastra." Sam opens his Omni-tool and goes to the compose section.
Adastra,
I have a spare hour of doing nothing but I do not have access to a console. Are you working on the large thruster design or are you going to leave it until I get back? She asked how your skin healed which I thought was nice. I will send a another message later.
Sam
Sam sends the message. "Well that wasted two minutes. I am going to have to make more effort not to get myself into situations which require me to go flying around the galaxy. Armali will not be too pleased if this continues."
"You work at Armali Sam?"
"Well I have worked one day in the last week, but yes. You seem a little surprised?"
"I am as they mainly work with biotics but if you have biotic potential then you would not need an element zero test."
"Oh, no I work in their propulsion design facility on Illium. The thruster design I should be working on now will probably have to be completed by early April at the latest."
"Have you been to Thessia recently?"
"Yes Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday last week. Why do you ask?"
"I was just curious as you have trace amounts of element zero in your urine. As does Amistathya I must point out."
"So the fact that it is there is not proof it is a potential problem?" Thalmara nods before seemingly getting another question.
"I am guessing a thruster takes a long time to design. How did you manage to get the time off?"
"Well in a weird way I suppose I am the customer for the thruster, so if it is not done in time then it is not really affecting anyone other than myself."
"I apologise for being curious but why would an individual want a thruster?"
"It is not for personal use Thalmara, that would be silly, especially given the size. All I can say is it will be on Illium in May. I think Armali did not have a massive choice as I have an interesting problem that needs a bit of quiet time."
"You make so little sense Sam it is quite refreshing. Is the problem medical related?"
"If you can read between the lines then all I can say is Amistathya's scaring and us deciding to meld."
"So you are on the dangerous list as well?"
"I am Thalmara, I was on the watch list from previously connecting with Adastra so it is no big deal for me. Being on the dangerous list is going to cause so many problems though."
"I assume they thought that people would not go near anyone else on the dangerous list."
"Technically I was not on the dangerous list until this morning."
"Really Amistathya?"
"Yes I have lived on Illium ever since the event as a servant and so I had not been entered into the system. This is my first time ever on the Citadel."
"You never came on a school trip?" Thalmara thinking it was remarkably uncommon to meet an Asari that had not been to the Citadel at least once.
"My primary school was relatively small so they did not have the budget to take us. I officially never attended secondary school. Unofficially it was four days." Amistathya looked a little saddened.
"I apologise for asking Amistathya. It is difficult to know what I can talk about to help the time pass." Sam had a quick look at the chair to see how well built it was.
"Amistathya, do you want to?" Sam patting his knee. Amistathya gets up and takes a seat on Sam's knee, Sam carefully putting his arms around her waist. "Thalmara I know the feeling of having to be careful. I am sure Amistathya would not hesitate in burying her past in a black hole somewhere if she could."
"There was another human, how is she?"
"You mean Kate. I have not seen her much as I have been away quite a bit but she seems happy."
"Does she have someone she is close to?"
"She gets on well with Fosanta but whether that is just friends or something more I do not know for sure." Sam thinking that lie is just about plausible and he would hate to give the reporters anything. Thalmara nods. "Actually I have just thought why we had reporters following us this morning. The fact we have been added to the dangerous list. I am sure one of them has spotted I was added."
"Actually that could be highly likely Sam. Things in the public domain tend not to stay private long."
"All that means Hymara is it is impossible to meld in public. I am already getting annoyed again at the feeling of being artificially limited by some over applied law though."
"I am sure you would get away with it once Sam."
"I already tried that in front of the Asari Councillor Thalmara, she was definitely unimpressed. I highly doubt I could get away with it again. I only got away with it last time after Adastra was reclassified for a day."
"Thalmara, this would be another reason we are never bored with Sam."
"I will not ask what you talked about while I was out of the room." Sam gets a message which he immediately looks at.
Sam,
I am leaving the design until you are back. I am working on the system to split in intake which is remarkably difficult. I can see why people have not attempted this before. I would appreciate it if you could look over the work when you get time to make sure I have not made any silly mistakes. Say thank you to Thalmara for me.
Adastra
"Adastra sends her thanks for looking at her and asking how she is Thalmara. I really hate Illium for sending messages to as you have to try and keep information out of messages which is impossible to do."
"I hear Adastra has a close friend as well. What is she like Sam?"
"Yet another interesting individual, she has duality syndrome but lives in her recessive personality."
"Are you sure about that Sam?"
"I do not think she has a reason to lie Thalmara. She did flat out admit she wanted me to be her bondmate but I both would have struggled to keep a lid on her outbursts and I already have my choice."
"I can imagine she is a bit of a handful if that is true."
"Well I think difficult but not unreasonable is the best description. I think she respects Adastra given she should be able to beat her in a biotic fight."
"Are we going to have to keep an eye on her Sam?"
"Well she did supposedly attack Kate the other day so it might be wise to be a little cautious Hymara."
"Sam, when you feel ready could you about half fill this pot?" Thalmara handing Sam the small pot.
"I think I can manage that. Could you let me get up Amistathya?" Amistathya goes back to sit on her chair as Sam walks out of the room. Silence descends which is only broken just over a minute later by Sam arriving back with two thirds full pot. "It is remarkably difficult to actually get it half full." Sam handing the pot to Thalmara.
"It does not matter as long as I have enough to test Sam. I will be back in a few minutes." Thalmara leaves the room.
"I can see there being some rumours in the media later about me being ill or whatever."
"You may be right. I really would not bother about them. So the plan for today is to have lunch and then go to the presidium?" Sam looks to Amistathya.
"Yes Lianta."
"I wonder what I am going to feel like tomorrow."
"You will find out tomorrow." Sam rolls his eyes at Amistathya's witty reply. Thalmara appears a couple of moments later. Everyone seemingly wanting to know the news.
"Sam. Your results are rather odd so I have no definitive answer. My only explanation is your body can process trace amounts using a very intensive process. There will be a point where that process will be too inefficient to work properly and cause unknown possibly harmful side effects. That is only my best guess however as without blood tests, a research lab and a good grasp of your species biology it is very difficult to know."
"I was only curious as to whether food and drink are fine to consume even if they are not element zero free?"
"That is perfectly fine Sam, even on Thessia. Oh and just in case you were wondering Amistathya is perfectly harmless as well." Sam laughs a little.
"That was more information than I needed Thalmara."
"You never know Sam. The possibility of your species being able to be naturally biotic is a bit of a revelation though."
"Wait so it seems likely that humans could be biotic?"
"Given you can only process trace amounts of element zero the natural potential would probably not be all that much but with bioamps it could be interesting. I must say now there is no chance of you becoming biotic Sam. The element zero nodes on the nervous system have to be created at the same time as the nervous system itself is."
"That would have been interesting but I am happy enough as I am. If this news gets out of this room though then my species has big problems."
"Why Sam?"
"Hymara, what do you think will happen if people think we are a biotic species. I think it would cause undue nervousness which exactly what is not needed before first contact."
"How come you are here if first contact has not been made Sam?"
"The Enlighten was inadequate for first contact especially after it had been attacked. I was more an unintended but needed contact. Kate just happened to stumble into our meeting which made it difficult for her not to be brought along as she soon knew too much."
"So people think you have just disappeared?"
"I would assume they would guess that we were killed since they would find our homes emptied and lacking in DNA evidence."
"Ok. I will not tell anyone about this Sam as I can see why it would be a problem."
"Thank you Thalmara for your understanding and your time this morning. I could do with something to eat now though." Thalmara nods.
"I agree Sam. Thank you again Thalmara."
"No problem Amistathya, just remember what I suggested and you might feel that little bit better." Amistathya nods.
"I appreciate the effort Thalmara. I hope I do not have to come back again for a while."
"If you have any more problems or questions Sam you know where I am. It is good to see you again Lianta." Lianta nods. "Hymara, It is always good to see you, especially when you have not been shot or injured."
"I will see you again Thalmara." Thalmara nods to Hymara.
"I am sure you can all find your way out. I need to destroy some results before someone asks about them." The four of them nod and Thalmara leaves.
"Ok I can see why you suggested Thalmara Sam even when I was against the idea."
"I am starting to wonder whether coming to the Citadel was a good idea as I have something else on my mind now. I feel we should get something to eat first though." Amistathya nods and the four of them leave the clinic to be very nearly walled in by reporters and journalists.
"Why are you on the dangerous list?" Sam heard one of the amassed journalists shout. Sam stopped Hymara from going on ahead.
"Maybe I do not want people bothering me. Also before anyone asks I was only after advice, I have no health problems." Sam lowers his tone. "Right time to move Hymara."
"I thought I said to be quiet."
"I know but it is funny to annoy them." The three of them shake their heads.
------
Kate, Adastra, Fosanta and Seliha were sat around a table in the Skylounge eating their lunch. Kate had made sure her meal was eezo free. "So what have you been doing this morning Adastra?"
"Well probably unlike you Seliha I have been working on something which I am starting to think will not work."
"Why are you working on it then?"
"Have you ever seen the gas feed for a large plasma thruster?" Seliha shakes her head. "The problem is unlike with the smaller thrusters you have to expand the liquid hydrogen long before the thruster to get the flow rate that is needed without freezing various control valves. We would probably need a fifteen metre diameter hydrogen pipe from hanger five which is ridiculous. I guess we would only need a two metre diameter water pipe, the problem is splitting the water."
"That sounds quite interesting."
"It is Fosanta but it is whether it works. It would really help gas management onboard some of the larger ships." Fosanta gets a message which she reads.
Fosanta,
Trace amounts are ok and do not have to be avoided. Tell Adastra I will have a look at her design this evening. I have having great fun with journalists and reporters now, it is getting annoying already.
Sam
"Kate you do not need to avoid any food, trace amounts are harmless."
"I will remember that as some of the marked food in the Skylounge looks rather tasty."
"At least you know it is safe now." Kate nods. "Adastra Sam said he will look at your design this evening."
"I will make sure I put it in his personal folder. Any other news?"
"He seems to have the media following him around now. He did not say why."
"I am guessing that is because he wants to avoid the Illium media finding out too quickly and annoying us."
"You may be right there Adastra."
------
The four of them get on the shuttle which was about to depart to the presidium. "Well that worked well, the media will be a few minutes behind us now." Lianta happy to get rid of them for a while.
"The presidium is quite a nice place Amistathya. It is certainly not something you would expect in the middle of space anyway." Amistathya nods as she seems mesmerised at the view from the window.
"This is all still a bit strange to me anyway Sam. I have seen the Citadel many times in images and video streams but it is nothing compared to actually being here."
"The fact there is a whole galaxy of different species out here still amazes me. It certainly makes you feel very small and insignificant."
"C-Sec tends to have a strong presence in the presidium so if you could stick to the laws then I would appreciate it."
"Is there a reason you are looking at me Hymara."
"You have a tendency to not do what you are asked Sam. If you would kindly not talk to any more reporters I would appreciate the reduced hassle."
"I will not for today." Hymara nods. The shuttle slows to a stop at the station and they all disembark. "Where do you wish to go Amistathya or would you rather just have a look around?"
"Just a look around. A seat somewhere quiet would be nice so I can take everything in." They all begin walking towards the lake. "The artificial sky looks wonderful."
"It also goes dark at night as well Amistathya."
"Really?"
"Well it was darkened when we walked back from having an evening meal in a restaurant around here somewhere. Quite where it was I do not remember as all these white pathways confuse me."
"You could use the signage Sam."
"Amistathya, that is fine when you have the use of an auto-translator. I did not when I was last here."
"Sorry Sam. I suppose they are so common that you think most people have one."
"Actually thinking about it, the C-sec officers that were protecting Kriana, Emala and Shiala must have spoke Asari as I did not have any real problem understanding them." Amistathya laughs a little at how he managed to dredge up that thought.
"I found that strange at the time to be honest Sam. Turians tend to learn Salarian as a second language as it is easier for them to pronounce the words accurately." Lianta wondering why they did not just speak their own language and let Sam and Kate muddle through.
"I know full well how difficult Asari is. I still do not think I get everything right."
"You do not Sam but we can all understand you. I think it might be your native language which causes the slight annunciation problems as Kate tends to get similar things wrong as well."
"That is good to know Hymara. I remember Fosanta laughing at my pronunciation on the Enlighten. I felt a bit foolish but there was no other way to communicate." The four of them find a quiet bench and take a seat.
"Is that an artificial sky?" Sam seeing his opportunity to play repeat the previous conversation.
"Yes Amistathya. It also goes dark as well."
"Really Sam."
"Yes and we really have had this conversation just ten minutes ago." Amistathya sighs.
"I have had a few things I have forgotten but I managed to keep quiet."
"I find changing the topic to something else quickly helps."
"I guess that is why you have been so random lately?"
"Not really Amistathya. I am always that random, I just usually wait until it is appropriate to say what I am thinking."
"You said you had something else on your mind before we came out of the medical centre."
"I just have something which I feel would be important to provide my opinion on. I am however not quite sure how people will take my opinion or whether they would listen or not. I could just forget about as it will not happen in my lifetime but it would be a problem for you Amistathya."
"Is it about what was discussed after you got the answer?" Amistathya keeping it vague as she thinks she has spotted a couple of reporters.
"It is partially related to that." Sam starts laughing.
"What is funny Sam?" Hymara confused by the sudden outburst.
"I lived for twenty seven and a bit years and not once did I ask, 'it would be so handy if I could mentally connect with the other person right now'. Now after six weeks I cannot seem to live without it. Admittedly I was less paranoid about secrets back then given I was essentially a nobody with nothing interesting to say."
"I would be willing to Sam."
"I know Amistathya but I think Hymara prefers it if I, we behave." Hymara nods. "Also I should really be trying to make the most of today." Sam looked over to the other side of the lake and saw someone who seemed to be taking photos in their direction. "Do you have anything else you wish to do today?"
"Not particularly as the Citadel is not all that large and we do have a number of days yet. I was thinking the botanical gardens may be an idea one day."
"That sounds interesting Amistathya." Sam hears a shuffling from the bushes behind them. "I think it could be an idea to move." Lianta looks confused as Amistathya turns around. "Either I am hearing things or the bushes behind us have a person in them." Lianta gets up and looks through a gap in the greenery.
"Would you like some help out of there?" Lianta being semi rhetorical in her question to the Asari who was clearly on a spying mission.
"There is nothing stopping me being here."
"Would you rather be in the lake? It would at least make a good story?"
"You would be arrested."
"Lianta we are heading back." Hymara giving Lianta an excuse to leave before something bad happens.
"I do not carry guns for show. If people become a problem they will be dealt with. Have a good day." Lianta leaves the Asari to join the back of the group.
"I would have paid to see someone get thrown into the lake but I guess it would not be much of a deterrent."
"You are correct Sam and I also think Lianta did not want to cause too much trouble."
"No it was because we have a bigger problem than I thought if they are willing to go to those lengths to get something." The four of them get into a shuttle back to the botanical garden station. Not a word was exchanged on the eleven minute journey. Amistathya content with looking out of the window. They all disembark and proceed to head back to the hotel. Sam could feel the burn of paranoia on his back as they walked along. Amistathya walking closer to Sam as if he has some kind of protective force field around him. They approach the front of the hotel to see a small mass of waiting media.
"Keep your heads down and just keep walking." Each of them followed Hymara's advice and lead just about getting through the group in one piece and through the main entrance. Amistathya was holding the upper side of her left arm, a notable grimace on her face. Sam carefully moves her to be standing behind one of the pillars out of sight of the front windows before hugging her.
"Amistathya will you be ok?"
"I will manage Sam." An Asari approaches the group.
"Have they hurt you?"
"Who would you be?" Hymara curious as she looked a little too formal for a random person.
"I am Dastana, the manager of this hotel. They have been standing around out there for the last few hours."
"We have been told not to touch Amistathya Dastana. I can understand why now." Lianta leaving Sam to give Amistathya a bit of support. Sam notices Dastana looking a little confused out of the corner of his eye.
"Amistathya be strong." Sam whispers before breaking the hug and turning to Dastana. "Are the media usually quite so aggressive? It is good to meet you by the way Dastana."
"It is also a pleasure to meet you Sam. The media are not usually this bad, I have heard them regularly shout comments to try and provoke a response but not a battle with each other. Are you ok?" Amistathya nods. "If she has a bruise I would happily back up any evidence with CCTV footage to press charges against the individual."
"Sorry Dastana that offer will have to be declined. I appreciate the thought though." Sam turns to Amistathya. "Are you good to go up to the room?" Amistathya nods. The four of them make their way to the lift and up to the room.
------
The four of them get into the house after a days work. Fosanta had just stepped into the house as her Omni-tool beeps.
Fosanta,
Bit of an update. I may be back earlier than planned as the media are causing us serious problems. I would advise you to be on the lookout if you venture into Nos Astra. We have just had a bit of a problem outside the hotel with one of them hitting the sky blue one. I am expecting a bit of a bruise. I will message Adastra later.
Sam.
"Well Sam may be back sooner than he thought."
"That is good news Fosanta."
"Not really Adastra. They are having problems with the journalists, one has just hit Amistathya. Probably not hard and accidently but still. He has warned us to be careful if we go into Nos Astra."
"I suppose it is most difficult for Sam as his security has the most difficult partner to protect as well. I do not even know whether she can actually use biotics or not to protect herself."
"I would be very surprised if she could not manage a push Adastra. Even some with unstable biotics can manage that."
"True Seliha but Adastra does have a point in that he does have the most difficult person that needs protecting." Fosanta wrapping up the topic as they all pile into the kitchen for food.
-------
The four of them walk into their room feeling a little happier they are somewhere relatively quiet and safe. Amistathya makes a move for the bedroom and Sam follows. Hymara and Lianta go for the sofa again. Sam decides locking the door behind him might make Amistathya feel a little happier so he does so as Amistathya sits down on the side of the bed to look out of the window. "Would you let me look to see if you have a bruise Ami?"
"I appreciate you trying to keep my problems a secret Sam." Amistathya talking as she pulls her top off, wincing a little as it slides over her arm.
"That is no problem but that bruise is quite something. I just feel annoyed I cannot help the individual gain some idea what they have done." Sam looking at the purple bruise which although the middle looked small it seems to have seeped out and spread to cover about half of her upper arm.
"I have a feeling I will be sleeping on one side for a couple of nights." Amistathya looking at it seemingly hoping it would magically disappear.
"Is it sore on the edge as it seems like it has spread?"
"I do not want to touch it myself. I will let you if you want." Sam was starting to wonder if she was relying on him too much or whether she was doing it to get more attention.
"Do say if it hurts." Sam carefully moved his finger towards the bruise as soon as his finger touched the bruise Amistathya moved away. "That must be very sore as I was barely touching."
"I hate bruises. I used to get them every now and then when I banged into a desk or fell over something while cleaning the research lab. The one I got on my backside one time was highly irritating."
"I am guessing that was what you did in your contract between the skin burn and the suicide attempt?"
"Yes. To be honest it was about the best I could get given I have had no formal secondary education. I really need to stop moaning as I guess it is depressing to listen to."
"Ami, it is anything but, considering most of this happened before even my parents were born. Also I appreciate hearing you talk about it. I know you do not find it easy to open up."
"I am a little less nervous than I used to be around you."
"I am glad to hear that especially since it is barely a week since I met you in the padded room. I can not imagine the confusion I caused when I walked in." Amistathya smiled at that thought.
"I thought I had worked out how the universe worked and how I did not belong. Then you walked in, an unknown species who both looked similar to an Asari and yet clearly not. I still think you look strange and I still find how you got here a bit of a stretch to believe."
"I really would like to see the Enlighten again someday as it was a rather interesting few weeks. Anyway that is something to think about another day. What do you think we should do given we are practically walled into the hotel now. I am contemplating whether to leave early and just accept the addiction. If we have four days of sitting around in this room I think it could be a bit boring."
"I would like to stay here a while longer. It is nice to have a bit of freedom."
"I would happily change the rules a bit Ami if you feel that bad about going back."
"No Sam, Seliha and Adastra scare me a little. I would ideally like the contract ended but I would like to try and understand those two a little better first. I hope you understand."
"I do but it could be because they know so little about you."
"To be fair I still do not know everything that I would like to about you."
"What would you say to us leaving on Thursday? That gives us a couple of days to get to know each other better."
"I suppose it depends what Holana says."
"Oh I forgot about that. I think we should have a talk to Hymara and Lianta about some food."
"I agree." Amistathya picks up her top off the bed and puts it on trying very hard to avoid the bruise. The two of them exit the room to find Hymara walking towards the door.
"Where are you off to?"
"There is someone at the door. I will happily throw them into the lift if they are a journalist." Sam nods as Hymara opens the door. "Oh I am surprised to see you here Talima." Hymara gestures her in.
"I was meant to be doing something else this evening but there have been some developments."
"Hello Talima. Let me guess are they journalist related?"
"Yes Sam. Holana cannot risk people finding out she may have a client. Sha'ira wishes me to say she is disappointed at what is happening but she is unable to do anything. I was sent to answer any questions you may have."
"Have a seat Talima." Sam gesturing to the other side of the table. Amistathya sits down next to Sam. Talima sits opposite Sam at a slight angle so she can speak to Hymara and Lianta on the sofa. "Does this mean Holana is unable to help now?"
"Unfortunately so, she seemed a little happier than usual today as well."
"Are we ok being here Talima as it sounds a little private?"
"Yes Lianta as long as you will not tell anyone else." Lianta nods.
"Great so they have messed up the plan and hurt Amistathya. I am really not impressed."
"So you do have a bruise Amistathya?" Amistathya nods to Hymara.
"I have no idea what is best to do now as about the only reason I was here was for Holana's help."
"I understand that Sam."
"Do you know what the journalists want from us Talima as they seemed awfully desperate to get something?"
"They have a lot of assumptions about you and Amistathya which they want to clear up. That and the fact you went to a medical centre this morning. Then they would like an interview with one of the new species not to mention one of the Enlighten crew given the rather sketchy news on its reappearance."
"Great, so I am basically target number one. This is never going to go away is it?"
"Not quickly at least Sam."
"Is there some way of getting a bit of a quieter time?"
"Unfortunately Amistathya I cannot see an easy way of achieving that. As long as you are with Sam you are always likely to be hassled by journalists."
"Do you think leaving Thursday to head to Thessia, spend a night there and then head back home would be an idea Amistathya?"
"I actually like the sound of that Sam."
"Good I could do with sending a message to Adastra as we try and find something to eat."
"The hotel has a restaurant downstairs, there may be some journalists there but it would be better than going outside."
"Are you going to join us Talima?"
"If you do not mind I unfortunately have other things I must attend to."
"Would it be possible to see either yourself or Sha'ira on Wednesday?"
"You will get a message tomorrow Sam. I can say it will not be myself visiting as I will be elsewhere. I wish you all a pleasant time." The four of them nod and Talima leaves the apartment.
"Could I ask why you wanted to see Sha'ira Sam?"
"I have a couple of things I would like an opinion on from someone who seems to know all the various kinds of red tape." Hymara nods seemingly happy with that answer. Sam opens the door and the four of them leave and head to the restaurant.
------
Adastra is upstairs still working on the water feed for the thrusters. "Do you not get sick of working on something constantly?" Adastra looks up to see Seliha leaning on the doorframe.
"If it is interesting and seems possible then I quite like the challenge. I am finding it difficult to do any better than just using a smaller standard unit integrated into the thruster. The problem is it adds a lot onto the length which could be a problem." Adastra seems a little frustrated.
"I am sure you will come up with something better soon." Adastra gets a notification on the console screen of a new message.
Adastra,
I deeply apologise for not looking at the design tonight a number of problems have occurred which needed solving. It seems I am going to have quite a bit of free time tomorrow and Wednesday so I will probably be helping you as we are essentially stuck inside the hotel.
Sam
"I will leave it for work tomorrow. It might be better to sleep on it." Adastra giving Seliha a smile as she locks the console.
------
"Hello Kate, I was wondering how long it would be before you noticed."
"It was a little mean not to say I could have showered with you." Kate seemingly a little annoyed at not noticing the bathroom door had been left open earlier. Fosanta smiled as she could see Kate was seemingly fixated as she towelled herself dry.
"Kate I hope you do not feel offended but I need to make sure you do not become addicted. I would rather make sure that if you are the wrong individual for me that you are not left with no one to turn to."
"You think I am the wrong individual?" Kate not sounding offended by that notion.
"While I think you are the right person Kate, I really wish to make entirely sure. I feel it is best to be careful for everyone's benefit."
"We are still ok for Friday though?"
"Of course as I am looking forward to it." Kate jumps in to the shower as Fosanta finishes off drying her feet.
------
"Would you mind if we swapped which side of the bed we have Sam?"
"Do you just not like that side?" Sam figuring out why but deciding to have a little fun.
"No it is that I am limited to what side I can sleep on and I would rather be facing towards you."
"Do I get anything in return?"
"Do you have something in mind?"
"You may be a little apprehensive Ami, but I would like you to express the dark streak in your personality somehow."
"I would rather stay on the other side."
"It does not have to be public or even anything over the top Ami. I can think of a number of things but I would like you to find your own way. Would you reconsider?"
"I will try to think of another idea on my own but I would like one from you." Sam takes a couple of moments to think.
"I am not going to provide specifics but wearing something a little different would be one."
"I am confused."
"Well white, plain and simple is hardly the description I would use for you Ami. You could even start by wearing something which better represents you in private and keep what you wear now for public."
"I will have a think about that Sam." Amistathya walking around the bed and stripping off before jumping in.
"There is plenty of time to talk it over tomorrow. I hope you sleep well."
"You too."
--------
Notes.
Journalists being a pain, who would have thought that would still happen in space? :p I hope the explanation surrounding element zero is logical in how it can be tolerated by Asari through metabolising it into something less damaging. The fact that it is partially broken down into something water soluble would explain how it could be passed to a foetus to enable the creation of nodes on the nervous system. More to come shortly.
- 32
- 33
- 34
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

Marked Effect (AFF Edition)