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
- 39
- 40
- 41
Chapter 40 - Unexpected News
Monday 6th February 2017
------
"Morning you two. Which of you was the looser last night?" Sam possibly being a little too awake for a Monday morning but decided to stick with the cheeriness.
"Kate lost and even though I really wanted to I could not bring myself to do so." Sam laughs a little.
"I thought that might happen."
"Sam Fosanta is a bit more reserved and I quite like that."
"I was not intending to imply anything Kate. I understand you may see me as a bit of a bully after last weekend but it is not my intention." Sam sitting himself next to Amistathya to eat breakfast.
"I do not think last weekend affected me much Sam but I was just making my opinion of Fosanta clear."
"Fair enough. Have you read your messages lately though as I had word you had got some information about the event and I forgot to ask you yesterday." She opens up her inbox to find two messages, one about today's client list from Armali and a second which she opens.
Kate,
You requested to have one piece of help but things are growing. The event will be covered by Vetiras Broadcasting. You will need to discuss in what way this will be achieved by taking a trip to their head office on Thessia before 19th March. I will provide more information later in the week.
Holana
"Who is Holana?"
"One of the Consort's Acolytes that does desk work Kate. She is a little cold but very efficient."
"Ok. Well it seems we need to go to Thessia before the 19th of March to discuss broadcasting with the interested organisation who are agreeing to cover it so that is good news."
"I think that week before would be handy for a visit to them, Galactic Acceptance and any other things we need to sort as it is about the right time to begin producing the promotional material."
"What is this we hear?" Seliha walking in through the door with Adastra barely behind.
"We seem to have got a broadcaster for the event Seliha and we need to go to Thessia before the middle of next month to discuss the plans."
"Do you know which broadcaster?" Adastra curious and Sam looks to Kate who rechecks the message.
"Vetiras Broadcasting."
"Well they are one of three major broadcasters given they have done a large scale live broadcast before. Salarian backers for the technology but Asari run hence why I guess we are going to Thessia and not Sur'Kesh."
"When was live a big deal?" Kate wondering how difficult it could be with such advanced technology.
"Kate. Live broadcasting on a single planet is easy, doing the same over the Galactic communications network covering many planets is considered almost impossible. It has only been achieved four times covering every planet for every species who has an embassy on the Citadel. There is no chance of us getting that kind of support without having tens of millions of people attending."
"So it will be live to Illium and pre-recorded to other planets?"
"Probably Kate. I am sure they will say more when we get there." Kate nods to Fosanta as Sam gets a message.
Sam,
Please could I see you before work?
Usarta
"Well that is never a good sign on a Monday morning."
"What is not a good sign Sam?"
"Getting a request from the boss to see her. I feel like I am in trouble now even though I have barely been there at all. I will ask if you can appear in some kind of a role Ami as I know you will probably get bored being here on your own."
"I would appreciate that."
"Perhaps it is all the time you have had off lately." Kate's face showing she was not serious.
"It is not that as she offered that time off Kate."
"Since you have an appointment are you ready to leave?"
"I am Seliha." She nods before standing up. Sam gives Amistathya a hug. "I will be back this evening. If you can do something for the event I would like that." She nods to Sam as he stands. "See you both at lunch time."
"Will do Sam." He nods and follows Adastra and Seliha out of the door.
"Do you mind answering a few questions Athya?"
"It would depend what they are Kate."
"Sam has been fairly open with saying you have been testing him. How can you be bondmates and in a servitude contract at the same time?"
"It works for us Kate."
"Do you mind me asking why you are different to when we first saw Amistathya? The change has been as different as Seliha is between her two personalities."
"What you are looking at is effects from my past Fosanta and unfortunately there is little I can do about those. I do not have any mental conditions that I am aware of and I will not suddenly turn on anyone."
"I never wished to imply that Amistathya. It was just the shock of you wearing the transparent dress on Saturday. I would never have thought you would do that, not after knowing what Adastra is like."
"Myself and Adastra are different Fosanta."
"I understand that."
"What are you going to do today Athya?"
"Something for the event. I believe Sam mentioned something about the stage area to me previously so I think that would be something I could plan. Could I ask if you two have any input?" Kate looks to Fosanta who shrugs.
"We really have not decided anything for the event Athya. We will work with what we are given for promotional things. We also have no idea how big the actual hanger is so it would be pointless us providing any guidance."
"I understand."
"I think we best be leaving as I have a meeting in forty minutes. We will be back later Amistathya." She nods as Kate and Fosanta leave for work.
-----
"What are you two working on today?"
"Well I asked Usarta to manufacture the twelve metre design for testing. She guessed it should be complete by Wednesday. I guess we should try scaling the design for twenty and see how we go."
"It is not like we have much else to do to be honest. What will you be doing Seliha?"
"I will no doubt be in meetings to go over the test data we received on Saturday. Honestly it is the best and the worst part of the job. The best because you get to throw around new ideas, the worst because there is always an accountant there who says you cannot do something because it will cost too much."
"Ahh so it is basically red tape to progress?"
"Yes. We are trying to get a change through at the moment which will increase the cost of the prototype amplifiers by about thirty percent but should reduce the final product cost by a couple of percent."
"Why will they not let that go through?"
"It is annoying as we could make the product performance much better if we had a bigger budget to spend." Seliha being more on a rant than actually answering the question.
"Can you not ask Usarta to increase the budget for Illium testing?"
"Unfortunately the budget is set from Thessia for bio-amps. Engineering Omni-tools and propulsion budgets are different as those two lines are only made on Illium."
"Ahh, that would explain why Usarta could ok us to produce the thrusters." Adastra parks the shuttle and the three of them get out. Seliha makes no response so Sam decides to keep quiet on the lift journey down. "I will see you both later." Seliha nods.
"I hope you are not too long Sam." The two Asari walk out and to the left. Sam does not have time to respond so just starts making his way to Usarta's office.
-----
Sam walks into the waiting area to find Usarta sitting down on the seats. "Morning. Do you like making me feel as if I am late?"
"No Sam. I like sitting somewhere other than my desk at times and I can also see when you arrive. Would you like to follow me?" Sam follows Usarta into one of the side rooms. She locks the door behind her before taking a seat in the office chair. Sam takes a seat on the opposite side of the desk. "I apologise for this having to be quite so formal Sam but I have something important to discuss." Sam suddenly gains a feeling of dread.
"What about?"
"I looked through our information about Amistathya last Friday after you visited and I noticed she had broken three servitude contracts. It makes me uncomfortable that you are working on new products for Armali and are seemingly partners with such an individual. I would like to hear your thoughts as the council board will be reviewing this later today."
"Great." Sam sighs. "I can only say what she has told me Usarta." She gestures Sam to continue. "She said that basically in the two early cases machinery upgrades made her redundant even though there was still years left on the contract."
"Do you know about the last?"
"Medical grounds are counted as breaking the contract?"
"Abuse of property was essentially the reason."
"That is hardly fair either as she was depressed before that happened." Sam closes his eyes for a few seconds. "I guess you have my contract with Ami in there then as well?"
"It was unnerving reading Sam."
"I guess because terms are meant to be explicitly agreed in advance?"
"Yes. It worries the board as it seems from the documents that you are taking advantage of someone with nowhere to go."
"You can ask Fosanta about how I treat Ami if you wish. I wish I could provide evidence that she did not deliberately break any of the contracts but unfortunately I cannot. I apologise for that but if my opinion has any weight she is an individual who will do anything to avoid anyone hating her. She has had enough in her past and wishes to avoid it happening again."
"I will speak with Fosanta and Adastra as well later today as they have known you the longest. Unfortunately Sam I can only allow you a couple more hours on site until the board agree that you are no immediate threat to the company."
"How long will that take Usarta?"
"Wednesday would be the earliest you could return now Sam. I trust you but the board cannot allow my opinion unfortunately. I can only try and build a solid case for you through interviews."
"Is there anything I need to do before leaving?"
"There is a bioamp being made in your production room. I would like you to place it in that tube and take it with you when you leave." Usarta gesturing to a black tube placed against the wall near the door.
"That is a bit of a strange request."
"I am unwilling to say anything more Sam, just keep it safe until someone asks you for it. Do not use, show or tell anyone you have it."
"I will try my best. I hope this gets resolved soon as without Armali's help there is no way I will be able to help Galactic Acceptance in May."
"I understand that Sam. Again my apologies and I must say your contract is still valid for working here." Sam nods and gets up from the chair. "Could you tell Adastra I would like to meet her at one but you must not say what has happened?"
"I understand. I hope to see you Wednesday." Usarta nods and Sam collects the tube before leaving the room. Outside he finds Kate waiting on the seating. "I am surprised to see you waiting here?"
"I have an unnamed meeting in five minutes. I guess you have just met Usarta?"
"Yes we both had something we needed clearing up so the meeting was handy. I must leave as I have things to do. I will see you later." Kate nods and Sam leaves, feeling a little bad about having to withhold the truth yet again.
"Kate I would like to meet you now." She gets up and walks into the room Sam has just left.
"Could I ask why you needed to schedule an appointment to see me?"
"I needed to follow specific formalities Kate. I do apologise. We were going through our system this weekend and as you know we have a lot of information about millions of people. Your sparse file gave us a bit of a surprise." Kate looks confused.
"How so?"
"I guess you remember something that happened this weekend which was formally documented." Kate has a quick think.
"Oh. It was a bit of a practical joke Usarta." Kate getting a touch embarrassed about her finding out about it.
"I unfortunately need to ask you how you and Amistathya were treated." Kate seems to get a little fidgety. "Kate, nothing you say will leave the room and it will not affect what you do here at Armali."
"Why do you need to know?" Kate being a little suspicious.
"We like to randomly interview individuals who have been in a contract in the past to work out what type of individuals we should consider employing. Since you are already employed then it is good information for us." Usarta managed to keep a professional face throughout even though it was an entirely fictional excuse.
"As I said previously it was a bit of a practical joke and I took it a little badly at first. Given that, I was treated fairly, all clauses were kept to and was allowed all basics. Athya has had seemingly years of practice and was faultless. Given that, she was treated extremely well and given a lot of freedom."
"Does that seem to be generally correct for Amistathya in general with Sam?"
"Athya seems to have a number of physical problems which Sam seems to take extra care over. She also seems very happy to be around Sam and when I have asked about the contract in the past she as been unable to say anything bad about it."
"So you thought it could be a problem and you thought you would see if it was?"
"I was definitely upset that Sam even considered the idea at first. I find the idea of slavery rather horrible but Sam has found a way to show me that it can be kind and much more subtle. You would from looking at them think they are good friends or bondmates, not in a servitude contract. He cares about her a lot and she does her absolute best to reciprocate that by doing as he wishes."
"Do you know if he has ever beaten her or denied her a bed or food for example?"
"She was essentially naked on Saturday and she had no bruises. As far as I know she sleeps in the same bed as Sam and I am definitely sure Sam would allow her to ask for food or drink whenever she wants it."
"So she wears nothing around the house?"
"No she has said she hates being naked and Sam respects that. No one in the house except Sam has seen her naked. She was wearing a transparent dress on Saturday that showed essentially everything. Sam was adamant it was Athya's choice and she was perfectly happy with it."
"Do you think Amistathya would go against what Sam asked?"
"Very unlikely Usarta. She knows exactly what is expected of her and will do what is asked."
"I thank you for your time Kate. Please do not say anything to anyone about this meeting."
"I will not." Usarta nods and Kate gets up and leaves to get back to work.
-----
Sam walks into the manufacturing room and finds the machine with a finished bio-amp in it. He carefully removes it and puts it in the tube before placing the tube behind a machine, hidden and out of the way. He then goes next door to talk to Adastra. "That was longer than I thought Sam. What did she want?"
"We both had a couple of things we needed sorting out with each other. Usarta has said she would like to meet you at one."
"I can do that. Are we going to start on the larger thruster then Sam?"
"Unfortunately not. Usarta has requested I take today and tomorrow off. I have been requested not to say why Adastra. I apologise."
"That sounds about right."
"You are sounding more and more like Seliha Adastra. Please understand I am in a very difficult position as I was asked not to say anything and I guess that included that I was leaving and the length of time."
"Sorry Sam. I keep forgetting you have quite a lot of things you cannot discuss."
"Usarta may be willing to say in your meeting, she may not. I will see you back at the house this evening."
"I will try to increase the size of the design while you are away." Sam nods before leaving to collect the bio-amp from the other room and leaving Armali with it.
-----
Fosanta is going over the weekends test data before this afternoons meeting when she hears a knock on the door. "Come in."
"I apologise if this is an inconvenient time as I know the meeting is this afternoon."
"It is no problem Usarta, what is it that you wish to talk about?"
"I have a few questions after checking our personnel this weekend. It is ok you are in no way a problem Fosanta." She looks relieved. "I hope you can keep what is said now inside this room."
"I can do that."
"I know Kate was with Sam this weekend and I would like you to say how she found it and how she is now."
"I think she found it quite tough and she did say she could still feel the effects of Saturday a little this morning."
"Would you care to say what happened?"
"I only know what I have been told as I was not there. Sam was reasonable given Kate's inability to grasp that it was not a game. She does not cope well when she has no control but that was essentially what Sam was asking. It was a bit of a joke between us all as we all know how much she disliked the idea of Amistathya being Sam's servant." Fosanta decided to leave out Amistathya's part in the weekend.
"Are you willing to give any specifics Fosanta?"
"No as it would look bad on Kate. She did say to me yesterday that she actually enjoyed it even if it was difficult and exhausting at the time."
"Hmmm. Could I ask your opinion on how Amistathya is treated?"
"I guess this is about Sam then given the questions?"
"Yes, but not directly. Please answer the question Fosanta."
"She seems very happy and Sam seems to more suggest Amistathya to do things rather than demanding it. It is a striking contrast from some of the documentaries I have seen in the past on indentured servitude. Sam seems to have found a way to have a bondmate and a servant at the same time, it is nice to see."
"Do you think she would ever go against Sam?"
"If it was something very trivial and only affected Sam then I think she could as a joke. If it was something which involved others, or was something more important then definitely not. She seems to have had many years of practice and I think it would not even cross her mind to go against what was asked."
"What do you think of Amistathya personally Fosanta?"
"I am guessing all of these questions have come from a security check and you think Amistathya could be a problem for Sam?"
"She does not have a good record Fosanta. Unfortunately I am unable to say anything more."
"She seems a friendly individual but she can be a little cold at times. I do not see her as ever being a security problem though. Your best bet would be to talk to her yourself. I am sure Sam would let you and you may get a bit more of an insight. Any questions about her past will not get an answer though."
"I will have to decline that Fosanta as unfortunately I cannot provide evidence from non-employees in this case to the board. I thank you for your time and again, please do not tell anyone what happened or what was discussed."
"I understand." Usarta nods seemingly happy and leaves the room.
-----
Sam walks into the house, tube in hand and looks around to see if Amistathya is around. He walks to the kitchen to find her making a drink. "Hello Ami. Please do not ask the two obvious questions as I have been told not to answer one and I will answer both shortly."
"Would you like a drink since you are here?" Amistathya seemed to ask the first question she had on her mind given the lack of a pause.
"Actually I would as it has been a long morning. I will be right back." She nods and Sam goes to the basement to hide the tube behind the desk his computer is currently setup on. The mass of cables hides its presence well and he goes back to talk to Amistathya. She was sat on one of the chairs when Sam got back up. "I have a little bit of explaining to do. First I know nothing about the tubes contents I had other than I had to hide it from everyone and keep it safe until someone collects it. It may cause bigger problems than I already have if you find and open it so do not. Is that clear?"
"Yes Sam." Amistathya waiting for the second point.
"I am back early because of you surprisingly."
"You missed me?"
"I did but no Ami. After we visited on Friday it seems the management did some digging through their records to see if you would be a problem for them. I am off work today and tomorrow at least while they determine the outcome."
"I apologise Sam."
"There is no need for that Ami. I am glad we had that talk last night as it helped me understand today." She seems to show a little worry in her sombre expression. "I did not say anything but given it sounded as if they had all of your previous contracts to hand. That meant I really had nothing I needed to say to Usarta regarding it."
"Could I ask you why my past is a problem?"
"I think they see you breaching three contracts as a big problem. I explained that they were not your fault but your word against three documents is difficult to defend against."
"It was only two contracts Sam."
"The third at the lab was listed as abuse of property which I personally thought was unfair as it was a medical problem before that occurred."
"I am a little frustrated about that but unfortunately there is nothing I can do about it." Sam puts his arm around her.
"I understand. Anyway because of those and the fact that your contract with me is essentially blank, Armali are also thinking I am taking advantage of someone who has nowhere to go."
"They would be right with the nowhere good to go. One contract breach is bad enough. The only reason I got the third was because my mother's new bondmate knew the owner. My only avenue left now would probably be prostitution if I had to find a job myself."
"I hope you do not think I am taking advantage of you?"
"You are not taking advantage of my situation Sam. You were unaware of it when you agreed to the contract."
"That is what I thought. I am just hoping that they work this out quickly so that I can get back to making the thrusters for the event. Oh and please keep this quiet as I should not be telling you about this."
"I will not say anything. Could I ask a question Sam?"
"Of course."
"How worried are you about the contract between us ending?"
"I am not overly worried Ami. I just feel we are very close to a good balance now and it may well become overly one sided as I full well know you can, will and do manipulate me."
"I was thinking about this earlier once everyone had left and I would be happy to keep everything as it is except it being a mutual agreement. I would quite like to see if a little more freedom would be nice to have Sam."
"So you mean no set rules but if I think you are being too much then you will do as I ask?"
"Yes. As you said it seems to work well at the moment. All I would like is a little more say in what happens and a little more personal freedom. I do not think it is an excessive request."
"Well since there are no limits on the contract would you like to see how it works now Ami?"
"You would allow that?"
"If you wanted to see if it worked I may as well."
"I would really like to Sam but I hope that I am not pressuring you."
"No you are not. So the set rules are there is no need to request my approval for example from now on."
"I appreciate this opportunity Sam." She gives him a big hug. "I guess people may be surprised when they get back."
"Possibly. Have you thought about the stage yet or are we to wait until after dinner?"
"After food would be best as it is not too long before lunch time."
"I see you are wasting no time in using your new found freedom. Just be careful not to go too far too quickly." She smiles before getting up from the table to see what to make for lunch.
-----
"Hello. How has this morning been?" Adastra takes a seat next to Seliha as she drops her tray of food onto the table.
"The meeting is this afternoon. The test data is showing the bias again which would allow us to push this product forward."
"Could you not create a group of ten or so individuals to test a newer product if they were unwilling to allow the whole group to go forward?"
"Possibly. I will bring up that idea as it will mean less outlay and we would still get to test the new idea."
"I am surprised that Sam is not with you two?" Fosanta and Kate walk over after spotting them between two planters to take a seat.
"All he said to me was he has today and tomorrow off Kate. He was definitely hiding something and I will do my best to find out when I meet Usarta just after lunch."
"She will not tell you much Adastra but it should be obvious from the questions. Unfortunately I am in the same boat as Sam that I am unable to say."
"So you have spoken to Usarta as well then Fosanta?" She nods but says nothing more.
"I have too, just after Sam had. He said to me nothing about leaving though."
"So he is in trouble?"
"Adastra may be willing to tell you after her meeting Seliha." Adastra looks at the time.
"I must be going as I do not want to be late given what I know now. I hope your bioamp meeting goes well this afternoon you two. I will see you all later." Adastra gets a nod off Kate and Fosanta and a short kiss from Seliha before leaving.
"I have heard rumours the nebula group are pushing to change the power stage from a two to a four transistor setup. Is that right?"
"It is. The board however dislikes the idea as it would mean automated testing would be inaccurate at best. It would turn the nebula class into something of a headache like the pulsar design is."
"Well my new design of sensors should be able to cope with small power spikes."
"That is fine for the development parts but it would be three or so years before we could manufacture that at 10mm."
"This is all going straight over my head. I will leave you two to discuss this and I will speak later." Seliha nods.
"Have a good afternoon." Kate nods before leaving. "Could they not roll this out as a 12mm design initially and let it filter down?"
"They have seen an increase in uptake after moving to 10mm being standard. They just think oh it is only a few years and it is only a minor increase in performance and a lot of initial development cost as it behaves a little different to the current design."
"We best be going to the meeting." Seliha nods and the two of them leave for the biotics building.
-----
Adastra arrives in the waiting area a few minutes early to find Usarta already there. "I am a little confused by what I have heard."
"I do apologise Adastra, could you come in here with me?" Usarta getting up and walking to the door a few paces to her left. Adastra follows her in and the pair of them take seats either side of the desk.
"Could I ask what is happening as Sam said he was offered to take today and tomorrow off? He gave no reason and I have a meeting with you."
"I am unable to say exactly what is happening Adastra. I just have a few questions to ask. If you would answer them as well as you can then it would be appreciated." She nods with a little reluctance. "We have learnt something happened this weekend in the house. Could you tell me what happened?"
"If you mean between Sam and Kate then unfortunately I know very little. I was testing with Seliha most of the day. We went out for a bit of an overnight break and came back to the house Sunday afternoon."
"So you know nothing of what went on?"
"I know little bits but it would be unfair for me to say as it was Fosanta who told Seliha and myself. I know she was also not there at the time. Kate likely told Fosanta much more than we found out as I do think Kate is still a little weary of Seliha."
"Ok. Did Kate seem fine when you got back on Sunday?"
"A little tired but she seemed quite happy."
"Kate said she saw that Amistathya had no bruises or any obvious injuries on Saturday. I guess that you can not verify that either?"
"I can actually. We were back for a couple of minutes after testing to get some things for the night and we had the opportunity to see Athya."
"Kate said that no one in the house excluding Sam had seen her naked. Is that true?"
"Yes. While her dress left nearly nothing to the imagination it was still clothing."
"What is your opinion of her?"
"She is a rather secretive individual but she has been friendly if a little distant from us. She has seemingly become quite a bit happier since the two of them went to the Citadel."
"Do you know what happened to cause that?"
"No idea. Sam can be unpredictable at times and Athya is not the individual you think she is from meeting her. All I know is that they seem to get on very well together."
"By not the individual you think she is do you mean she cannot be trusted?"
"No, I mean I think her past affects her more than she lets on. I would trust her with something important if I had the need to."
"You made hints that you and Seliha are actively together. Is that right?"
"Yes. Could I ask quite what this is all about though as it feels like you are keeping an eye on all of us?"
"We were doing checks over the weekend and we found a couple of pieces of information which were a little uncomfortable for the company. This has nothing to do with you or Seliha. That was curiosity on my part and I apologise if you thought otherwise."
"I am guessing it is to do with Sam then given his time off?"
"I am unable to answer that Adastra." She nods knowing the answer was between the lines. "I thank you for your time this afternoon. The design you requested to be made will be complete for Wednesday in testing hall two."
"Thank you." Usarta nods and Adastra leaves the room.
-----
"I have been thinking the stage area is quite easy and can be done quickly some other time. What would you like to do instead Ami?" She seemed a little surprised but quickly seemed to think of something.
"Could we watch the film we were to watch last night?"
"I like that idea." The two of them head to the basement. "Can you remember which one I suggested as I have forgotten?"
"I think it was the matrix or something like that." Sam nods before turning the computer on and waiting. "It is still amusing to watch it load."
"I know it is a novelty Ami." Sam opens the video player and opens the matrix before sitting down on the seat next to Amistathya. "I hope you can follow it ok as I know you have not had much practice with English."
"I will ask questions after if I am confused." Sam nods and Amistathya settles her head on Sam's shoulder.
-----
"Pulsar testing again gave us no more useful data. Fosanta has been developing new sensors for the next development version which should give us a better insight into what is happening. Nebula testing has shown this version has a two percent performance improvement on average but it is difficult to verify until after next weeks testing."
"That sounds like progress is being made. Are there any new ideas from this data to progress the design?"
"We as a department still wish you to consider the changing of the design from two to four transistors. It may only show minor or no improvements to begin with but it would allow much more control over the amplification stage."
"I believe we have said this for the last seven months that we are unwilling to go down that route for the nebula design until manufacturing allows its cost to be equivalent to what it is for the current design."
"I must stress that this would allow us to potentially increase the performance by quite a large amount rather than the odd percent or two. This design is getting to its limit and we are going to have to move sooner rather than later." Seliha getting annoyed at the bean counters applying copious red tape.
"Please understand our position. From the data we have received from you all it would initially cost more, be unavailable at 10mm and would be unstable when not attached to someone. A small performance improvement is not worth all of those drawbacks."
"My apologies as I do not know quite how these meetings work but looking over the data it sounds like a plausible and forward thinking idea. Since it cannot be made at 10mm yet then how about diversifying the product range a little."
"We would not consider a new product range and split the market."
"Have the new design produced and tested for only three months. That will limit costs. It could be offered commercially as Nebula-12 to recoup costs after the Thessia refit. It would be higher performance than Nebula-10 and the cost would reflect that. Nebula-10 would continue to be developed until nebula-12 could be made in 10mm. Testing and development then switches to Nebula-12 and Nebula-10 gets minor upgrades every three months and a filter down of Nebula-12 every year."
"So Nebula-10 becomes our standard commercial part and Nebula-12 would be our high performance commercial offering."
"We can already offer Nebula at 12mm anyway for extra performance if the customer wishes so it is hardly splitting the market."
"It sounds a reasonable idea to get this idea into the market with as little financial outlay as possible. I will take this to the board which could allow development to start in a couple of weeks." Everyone in the room seems relieved and pleased to hear it is to be considered. "Are there any updates on the Pulsar development which I should be aware of?"
"Output is a little irregular but until next months design we will not be able to understand why." The board member nods.
"I will meet you all next week and I will attempt to get a preliminary idea as to if your proposal will be accepted." She gets a number of nods before standing and leaving the room.
"Seliha, Fosanta. How did you come up with the idea to run the two designs?"
"Adastra suggested we could run limited testing which would reduce costs and yet still get us the data we need to prove it is a good idea."
"While we were talking over lunch I thought that we could recoup the costs by having a performance and a standard part. Armali have a large market and only using one part to cover it all is a bit silly."
"Maybe getting ideas from others to bring to the table is a good idea. Perhaps we cannot see the logical way forward because we are dealing with this every day."
"Yia. I bet you have thought about doing this but disregarded it because she said that they would not split the market. Sometimes a bit of compromise on both sides can get the same result."
"Still I appreciate the contribution." The two of them nod. "Everyone the deadline for the next testing amplifiers is this Friday." The room stands and exits to go back to work.
-----
"I really need more practice with English Sam as that was difficult for me to follow at times."
"The simple explanation is the real word is not real but a very good simulation inside a computer which is powered by the real individuals in the real world who are mentally living the virtual real world."
"I am confused."
"Is it the concept or the fact you struggled with the language?"
"Both Sam. I would pick up the language quicker if I could practice speaking it. The concept is confusing as it would require so much processing power it would be inconceivable."
"It is fictional and you have to remember that the individuals on Earth know nothing about everything out here. I would not think simulating one planet would be too excessive. I bet all the computers attached to the extranet now could do it with a lot of optimisation."
"A good point Sam." Sam smiles. "I did not say it wrong did I?" Amistathya swapping back to Asari given Sam's smile.
"No Ami. I just really like your wonderful soft, cool voice and it works well for English too it seems. I would be more than happy to speak in English while we are alone from now on if you wish to learn." She nods.
"You are being very, friendly towards me today Sam. I do not know quite what I can do in return." Amistathya tried her best to get the words out correctly and smoothly but not quite managing to do so.
"Just enjoy it Ami. I must also say don't be scared of mistakes. I have, and still do make them with Asari." She nods. "How about a drink?"
"That sounds good." Sam puts his arm around her and the two of them walk upstairs to the kitchen.
-----
"Thank you Adastra for offering your advice this morning. They are considering our request to change the bioamp."
"It is no problem Seliha." Adastra pilots the shuttle out of Armali and onto the route home. "I should not say anything but Sam and Athya have problems."
"Surely that would be something they would have to work out themselves?"
"No Seliha. I think Armali have an issue with those two. I am just hoping it does not impact the event as I can see it making a worthwhile difference."
"Can you not do the thrusters yourself?"
"Maybe but given I have about six weeks to get them all designed, simulated and tested it is a lot of work."
-----
Fosanta and Kate walk in to the house a little earlier than usual given Kate's final meeting was shorter than planned. "Hello both of you."
"I thought you may have looked a little down after this morning Sam?"
"How can I be unhappy with Ami next to me Kate. I got a feeling Armali did not particularly like something they found."
"Usarta also talked to me as well Sam."
"I guess you both know as much as I do then."
"Usarta let slip that Amistathya does not have a good past record. She gave no more details than that."
"You sound a little surprised Fosanta."
"Well up until now I have never seen you break your arm rule and you always seemed the kind and helpful type of person."
"Let me clear this up Ami." She nods to Sam. "We are trying the agreement out that we will use after we end the contract hence there are no fixed rules at the moment. Also I know the basics about Ami's past and I am fine with it all."
"It seems Armali think differently."
"I think they are also worried about me as well as I have not exactly made logical decisions to be with Ami. The fact I have melded with her, her past, the fact she is in a contract with no defined terms. It worries them that I could make bad decisions it seems."
"I am a bad decision?"
"To me of course not Ami. To an outsider they may interpret it that way however."
"I can only hope it all works out ok Sam."
"I am sure it will Fosanta. Could I ask how the bioamp meeting went as Seliha was not exactly happy this morning."
"It went remarkably well, they are considering a request to allow us to design a high performance version." Adastra and Seliha walk in the front door.
"Hello. I have just heard the good news from your meeting Seliha."
"Yes, I am happy they are considering the idea."
"It just sounds like it is the issue surrounding you Sam that is the big problem at the moment."
"I honestly do not care too much Adastra as I can always help you with the thruster design in an evening if you wish. As long as they still support the event that is all that matters for now."
"I will go and make something to eat." Ami gets up and walks to the kitchen, Fosanta and Kate follow.
"Have you two ended your contract?"
"No Adastra. We made an agreement earlier which allows her more freedom hence the lack of rules. We have not yet decided if it will stay this way or not."
"Is this because of today?"
"No, we have discussed this a couple of times since returning from the Citadel Seliha. I admit that this problem may have brought this issue forward but it is not new."
"Could I ask what happened as Usarta asked what caused the change in Athya?"
"Nothing really Adastra, I just asked her to be herself as there was no contract. We seemed to really grow close over the time which was good but I cannot see what caused the change."
"I was given hope for a better future." Amistathya walking to the seating area from the dining room. "Food is ready." The four of them go to the dining room to sit down with Kate and Fosanta who had already started.
-----
"You are not yourself this evening. Is he this much of a problem?" Adastra getting into bed with Seliha not far behind.
"Seliha, you still are struggling to believe we are good friends and nothing else. I do feel empathy for his position however as he seems very happy with Athya and yet that is what has caused this."
"You worry too much Adastra."
"Seliha, will you always be so on edge as I think you are unable to appreciate my point of view. I understand it is not your fault."
"I find it difficult to show emotion towards others Adastra. The other one has no problem and I would if I could, mix the personalities together but it does not work like that. I can understand your worry for him but I do not feel it."
"I know it is something you may not like to talk about but what skills do you actually have?"
"I can get any information out of an individual or remove anyone you wish. My mother taught me everything I needed when she was a mercenary, even giving me some of her jobs." Adastra goes a little grey.
"I am surprised Armali do not know about this."
"We ensured no one knew who we were and we were never paid in credits. I started as a servant at Armali so I did not raise suspicion just to be safe."
"Should I tell everyone else in the house Seliha?"
"What would you be willing to do to keep me Adastra?"
"What are you suggesting Seliha? I will not kill an individual. I have unintentionally done that once and I do not wish to repeat it."
"To leave this house and your job to start a business. Would you willingly do so if the need arose?"
"I guess so. I would at least want to know what kind of business though given your past."
"I would leave that choice to you Adastra."
"Then yes. Why do you ask?"
"I will inform everyone in the house about my past but if Armali start investigating either of us then we have to leave." Adastra nods. "Sleep well and thank you for being so understanding." Seliha gives Adastra a hug.
"I hope you do too."
-----
"I apologise again Sam."
"Honestly it is fine Ami as it was not really your fault. Just get a good nights sleep and we can talk tomorrow." She nods and Sam turns the light out.
-----
"Do you think Sam will find out tomorrow what will happen?"
"Possibly Kate. He does not seem to mind all that much so I do not think we should let it bother us." Kate nods before giving Fosanta a kiss.
"Sleep well." Fosanta nods and turns off the light.
-----
Notes.
I bet no one saw that investigation by Armali coming. You can find out the outcome of that digging in next week's chapter which will be posted on the 11th of August.
I see there are many new readers and I hope you are all enjoying the story to this point. If you have a spare few minutes to review the story or to provide your opinions then it would be much appreciated. You can either do that by review or by visiting the following forum thread where I will reply to reviews if they need an answer.
http://www2.adult-fanfiction.org/forum/index.php/topic/35940-unrealuniverses-review-reply-thread/
- 39
- 40
- 41
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)