Backstage - OOC Forums
EVE-Online RP Discussion and Resources => Player Driven Content => Topic started by: Ché Biko on 26 Aug 2015, 19:29
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This thread is for the in-character portion of this project. Caldari/Gallente roleplayers are welcome to help worldbuild this scarred planet; others are asked to please limit themselves to listening quietly. The coordinating portion of this project may be found here (http://backstage.eve-inspiracy.com/index.php?topic=6802.0); participants may use that area to brainstorm and bounce ideas around without Aria's OOC knowledge.
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Ché flicked a few switches at the command of the pilot to his left, who is piloting this space plane down to Caldari Prime, which is growing increasingly larger in the forward viewscreen. It is less white than one might expect. Ché had explained a number of factors played a part in this: natural evaporation does not play a major part in the water cycle, some vegetation had adapted to grow in snow and on ice, the effect industries and cities and human activities on the surrounding landscape, and in recent years, the planet was close to the periapsis of its fifteen standard year orbit while Luminaire's star is at the high output portion of its solar cycle.
The scar of the planet, the Shiigeru crash site, is clearly visible now. Ché glances to his left, at Aria, who is sitting between him and the pilot, and he notices her looking at it. Ché looks at it for a moment as well before raising his arm to point at it and some other recognizable features.
"Ok so...Shiigeru crash site...that's the southern edge of the Kaalakiota mountain range. The equator runs approximately like this...and that big body of water near it is the landlocked sea Arcurii. North of that is lake Saaika, aaand between the two, roughly at the same latitude as the southern edge of the Kaalakiota Peaks, that grey spot that's a different grey than the other grey spots...the one the ship is sorta pointing to, that is Arcurio."
Ché smiles and glances at Aria for a moment. He's not certain if he was telling her anything she already knew, but he felt like breaking the silence, so he did not care that much.
The decent through the thin atmosphere is quick, and soon the space plane starts leveling off about one kilometer above the plateau of basalt and granite, just underneath a thick layer of hazy cloud cover. The sun is still low in the sky, it appears not much brighter than a moon through the clouds. They pass some of the twelve graviton reactors and pulse generators that make up most of the power network, dark industrial monoliths, definitely of Caldari making, each standing in a small white cloud of vapor, towering over the surrounding tundra at the base of a hill, series of pipes zigzagging between them and into the distance toward. The surrounding buildings are dark as well, few lights can be seen. One of the buildings appears different, a large tube-shaped building, it appears to extend into the hill. The dark grey material is different from the other buildings, but hard to make out in this light. It has no windows apart from a single level, close to the ground.
As the spaceplane turns, Ché points at a greenish patch between the white and brown landscape, which is seemingly the only "green" in the immediate vicinity that appears to have reached the size of a big bush.
"See that?" he says. "Those are Pit-ki-aikanen trees. What you see is only their tops sticking above the snow level. They appear short, but they can actually be over ten meters tall. As they rely on packed snow for support, they grow tallest where there's a lot of snow. If the snow melts, then the thin trunks lie down on the ground, spreading away from the center horizontally, claiming more surface area for the old and new trees to grow when the snow falls again."
The space plane ends the turn, now flying parallel to a series of dark pipes going into the distance, slightly zigzagging over the tundra, a patchwork of snow, granite, evergreen trees and smaller vegetation. Not a lot of signs of animal life can be seen from this height, although an occasional bird can be spotted in the sky.
The underside of the thinning cloud layer rises quite a bit, the light from the sun becoming brighter as the skyline of Arcurio starts to come into view. Ché looks at it, a slight smile forming.
"Behold..." he nods towards the skyline, some buildings appearing over a kilometer in height "...that skyline of highly developed glass and steel...or one similar to it...was the first thing many Gallente saw of the Caldari. I was not alive when we first saw it, but I can imagine that those living in those days...when we saw that...we were sure that we would make new friends."
His smile turns a bit wry before turning his attention to some of the instruments in front of him. The space plane continues swiftly, increasing height while flying over a series of enormous windbreakers housing turbines before reaching the outskirts of the city, that covers over 5800 km2. From above, the city looks remarkably Caldari in style and efficiency for the first city that was exposed to Gallente culture. Its 128 wards, arranged in 32 groups of four according to tradition, can be distinguished. Heated silicate-glass snow canopies protect vast areas of the city's lower levels and non-heated transportation infrastructure. The reconstructed Qaiian Tower, the headquarters of the Nugoeihuvi corporation, dominates the skyline, around 2 kilometers in height.
Ché turns to Aria: "Do you wanna do a circle over the city before we set this lovely down?"
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Aria has sat in silence during the descent, black little eyes ever watchful, outwardly serene. An attentive companion, however, might notice her knuckles whitening on the armrest during atmospheric entry, and the natural pattern of her breathing catching and switching to a calming breathing exercise (in through the nose, out through the mouth, in through the nose, etc.). She listens quietly, but whether she actually absorbs anything is difficult to say.
Her ever-so-subtle death grip loosens as the descent slows, and she sits forward in her seat to get a better view of the planet. She takes in the scenery as it passes, but doesn't speak until Che' asks a direct question.
"Sure," she says. "If ... it's no trouble. There's something ... well. 'Right' about seeing a Caldari city as though from a bird's eye."
Then:
"Hm. Glass and steel ... I would have guessed wood and stone. The Caldari had only just developed the radio, hadn't they?
"Also-- um. About the Pit-ki-aikanen? That's a strange survival strategy-- is surface area really helpful under so much snow? Sorry-- I've ... just been sort of mulling that over since you said it."
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Ché had not payed a lot of attention to Aria during entry, only offering an occasional assuring glance towards her as he was calling out pressure, speed and temperature. His voice was calm, he seemed to enjoy this. Ché keeps looking at Aria for a bit after her reply, raising his left eyebrow to its usual slightly raised position.
He replied "No trouble...its fun!"
Then:
"Well, maybe my historical facts are mixed up with not-so-factual dramatized holoreels, but you don't need radios to make glass and steel. But yeah, I guess the buildings were smaller back then. Anyway, I think we would feel sort of the same if it was wood and stone."
"The Pit-ki-aikanen are usually not covered in snow for very long. When snow falls, they grow upwards, twisting and rubbing around and against eachother, which removes the snow from their tops. If they did not spread outward, there would be less room for more new trees to grow."
He looks towards the pilot at his side as Ché takes the controls. The pilot responds by letting go of his and says "You have control."
"I have control." Ché responds, and smirks at Aria for a moment before rolling the plane left and right abruptly for a second, still keeping his smirk on her to see her response. He then continues to throw a glance outside and over the primary instruments before increasing thrust a little, first turning to the right, then lazily to the left.
As they fly over the city (where cleanup and reconstruction, started after Operation Highlander, is still ongoing), Ché points out various landmarks: First they make a high pass over central Arcurio, known as simply as District 1, housing the Metropolitan government, City Court, and the headquarters of the Arcurio City Security Force.
"Those are the original four wards, named after the atmospheric processing arrays that the city grew around. The arrays have been dismantled centuries ago, but their names live on: Bukkaido...Okuuda...Hiishara...and Kotowaari."
From central Arcurio, Ché turns the plane to slowly spiral outward. Some of the streets between the high rise buildings are barely visible at the bottom of dark and narrow man-made chasms, small spaces between otherwise efficiently build up area. Although there appears to be some framework all the buildings adhere to, there are slight variations or customizations, between the buildings, or between the levels of the same building, or even between neighbouring appartements on the same level. Some appear to have a slightly Gallente style, others appear more like the Raata style, others have taken on a Matari-rusty colour. Mosts adjustments appear to be practical in nature, though, as opposed to aesthetic. Here and there, cables can be seen between the buildings, and even an occasional bridge or corridor. These narrow chasms are not very suitable for hover vehicles, and as such, not many can be spotted there. Most keep to the wider streets, and Ché does not seem tempted in any way to try his cornering skills down there.
As they spiral outward, Ché gradually decreases altitude. As they fly over the Matari district, he points at one of its wards.
"That entire ward is sort of a red light district."
Ché frowns a little, suddenly becoming a bit self-concious about that sharing this knowledge betrays that he has that kind of knowledge.
"Ahemhm...Oh, look. There's park Sarayaa, in district 3."
They fly over an area packed with evergreen foliage and trees surrounding vast areas of parkland and recreational space, clearly visible, the enormous snow canopies protecting it in their rectracted state. The open, light and natural area must be nice place to visit after spending a day in the nearby dark chasms.
"That's one of three "green parks"."
Ché let go of the controls for a second to gesture the quotation marks, the plane banking a bit more as he does. He then takes control again with one hand, correcting the bank, and points in the distance.
"There's also park Akiikala in District 7...and park Horaado in District 11."
The down-and -outward spiral continues, and they pass over the Gallente-Caldari Historical museum in district six...
"Maybe we can do a little fact checking there."
...the Caldari Prime Natural History Museum...
"I guess you can skip that one on this sojourn."
...and some of the city's Mindclash, Gravball and Splinterz arenas...
"That's the New Eden Clash Coalition Gigadrome, with 650,000 seats, it is the largets Mind Clash auditorium on Caldari Prime. And over there is the home of Arcurio's Gravball team, the Arcurio Scorpions."
"I'm sure you can make out the two districts that are Amarr dominated...just look for the places of worship."
Although Ché does not point them out, there are several other districts that, while still retaining a Caldari appearance, are subtly different from the others. These are likely the districts with a Gallente majority. It may be surprising to see that from above, the prolifiration of the Gallente culture seems to be quite limited, even in the city that must have recieved a lot, if not the most exposure to it. The Amarr districts are more recognizable.
Ché looks to the pilot to his side.
"Take this beauty down, will you? You have control."
The pilot nods and takes control, then requests landing clearance, and quickly follows the vectors to the ground, occasionally instructing Ché to do something. After touchdown, Ché thanks the pilot as he quickly gets out of his seat, then helps Aria climb out of her's.
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An indrawn breath, tightening of fingers on armrests, and hardening of posture are Aria's outward reaction to the abrupt maneuvers. She seems to wait them out, more than react strongly one way or the other. Her brief "statue" impression thaws as the craft begins its lazy left turn. She listens quietly to Che', her gaze going where directed, and a few additional places besides.
After landing, she is half-detached from her chair by the time Che' offers his assistance, but she nevertheless accepts, pausing a moment to check her jacket and scarf, and to pull on a pair of gloves.
"The city's pretty multicultural, isn't it? ... So ... this area would be under Gallentean administration, right? ... One of the Federal districts? I don't know all the details of the agreement they hashed out, but I'm sure the Caldari wouldn't like to have Amarrian worship sites here, certainly not visible ones. They're pretty sensitive about this world.
"Um. You mentioned atmospheric processing? ... Were those something left over from the Ancients? Talocan technology? ... And they removed a site like that?"
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"Well, it's no Caille...and Heth's reign did quite a lot of damage to that multicultural side, but yeah. Less than half the population is Caldari, about a third is ethnic Gallente, and the Amarr and Matari are about a tenth, each. Some, if not most worship sites precede the current Gallente administration and were build during our initial...occupation, preceding Heth's reign. I guess Heth...and other Caldari, didn't feel like kicking allies in the shins by having them demolished."
"...Hmm...Well...good question. I initially asumed that it was ancient stuff...I don't know much about Talocan...and I would still think that's the case, but...yeah. I can only assume that throughout the centuries, the Caldari were practical enough to replace broken parts, to the point that there was hardly any original technology present when they were finally decommissioned."
Ché opens the door to the outside apron, which also lowers some steps. A frosty breeze enters the ship, and Ché zips up his coat, then picks up one end of his travel bag, then looks at Aria.
"How long were you planning to stay here?"
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"Hee-- I can just imagine some of the stone, bronze, and iron age 'replacements'. 'The sacred shiny thing is blackened, and no longer a fit home for the spirits! I have put in its place a new home of wood, carved in its image. It does not shine, but I felt the Winds' approval.'
"... huh. Four atmospheric processors, four Winds. I wonder."
Aria shudders as the chilly breeze blows through. She wraps her scarf up over her mouth and nose and pulls up her hood leaving only the bird-bright eyes exposed, peering from beneath her forelock.
"Uh-- I hadn't entirely decided. I'm sort of making this up as I go along. Probably just a few days, though-- I'm here more to explore the Gallente Federation than the Caldari State."
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Ché looks at the hooded Aria, and smiles at her nodding for a bit, perhaps a bit too long, apparently thinking she looks funny/cute.
"...Yeah, I thought that would be the case. I was wondering why you would visit Caldari Prime, but I suspect it is to see how the cultural clash worked out? It's part of why I thought Arcurio would be a good place to start...first point of contact and all...maybe we're not far from where the ISCSS Venture landed. I'm not sure if Arcurio was also the place where the Cultural Deliverance Society landed. Anyway..."
He steps halfway out the door, his free hand sweeping over the skyline before his arm remains stretched and slightly raised in front of him.
"...Welcome to the Arcurio, birthplace of Visera Yanala...and many others."
He waits for a moment, then steps out on the starport's apron, looking around. In the distance, amid the sparkling reflections of snow canopies in the low sun, the dark-grey monoliths of central Arcurio stand in contrast with the blue-ish white, slightly hazy sky, filled with traffic. The starport and its terminal appear largely Caldari in style and construction efficiency, although the use of glass is present in Gallente-like quantities. Apart from that, the lay-out of the starport is quite spacious, not very in tune with Caldari efficiency, although it is obvious that some attempts have been made to improve that.
Ché heads of towards a particular nearby section of the terminal, dragging his bag behind him, which hovers just a bit above the ground. He then looks back at Aria and stops for a moment, allowing her to catch up, then continues with a pace more suitable for those with shorter legs.
"Sorry, I'm used to walking briskly, it's often the only exercise I get." he smiles apologetically.
They enter the terminal and walk down a quiet corridor, and after a couple corners, they end up at a security checkpoint. A single guard sits in the booth, leaning back as he reads from a pad in his palm, quickly sits up as he spots Ché and Aria, putting down the pad and watching them approach with folded hands. The booth is an ovoid shaped tube, the upper two-thirds are made of transparent nano-alloy. Ché bows his head to the guard, then holds his thumb near the ID scanner. This triggers a picture of Ché being projected inside the nano-alloy, approximatly at the height of his actual face. The guard compares the picture with Ché's face, which is behind the picture from the guard's perpective. He then looks to another screen before nodding to Ché.
"Welcome back, Mister Biko."
Ché takes a few steps towards the door, then turns to Aria. The guard turns his attention to Aria as well, then pushes a button, which lowers the booth a bit. The guards stoically sinks along with it, his blank expression returning to Aria after the movement stops.
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Short legs or no, Aria has been keeping up reasonably well-- at least where there's no ice or slush. As long as the footing's good, she has a tendency to scurry (though Ché's long limbs do make keeping up more than an average challenge). Her response to Ché's apology is noncommittal-- it might be a shrug, except that she's moving around enough as she hurries along that it's hard to tell.
She watches as Ché passes through security: apparently there's no need to hide their capsuleer status just yet. Her personal data system analyzes the security network as she steps forward. As Aria presents her thumb, this system presents the security network with her identification and authentication credentials, including her terrible Federal standings, her status as a PY-RE combat pilot formally at war with the Federation, outstanding murder warrant on Saisio III, and the Outlaw security rating that allows her ship to be attacked on sight in space.
It also carries an invocation of an egger's effective sovereign immunity and the usual rules disallowing planetary or stationside law enforcement from moving against purely space-based threats, as well as a sworn declaration of peaceful intent.
She removes her thumb from the scanner and regards the security officer impassively.
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As the ID scanner pick up the information supplied, another scanner, embedded invisibly in the wall opposite the security booth, scans Aria and her stuff, not only for illegal items, but especially for things that could pose a hazard to Caldari Prime's often delicate ecosystems.
Ché watches, his eyes darting from Aria to the guard and back, apparently a little uncertain if there will be any problems with her credentials, but he hides it well, in case the guard would look at him. When the guard takes longer to clear Aria through (because of the amount of information presented on his screen) then was needed with Ché, Ché starts to frown a little, but the frowns is quickly replaced with a slight smile as the guard finally clears Aria with a "Welcome..." This welcome is slightly more formal in tone than Ché's, but it would take a rather perceptive person to notice that.
As they walk away from the guard, the first pair of a set of two pairs of opaque glass doors slide open, and after they pass the first, they close and the second pair opens, revealing a corridor bathed in real light. On one side, there's a wall and a few doors, on the other a transparent glass divider, separating the area they are walking through from the rest of the terminal, clearly visible on the other side. Above them, the heated silicate glass ceiling is definitely of Caldari making, in contrast to the otherwise very Gallente use of glass.
The people in the terminal are as varied as one would expect from Ché's description of the populace, perhaps even more so because of the nature of this terminal. Guards are visibly present here and there, some of them belonging to the ACSF, others to Mordu's Legion. As Ché and Aria approach the end of the corridor, a single ACSF guard steps more to the side of the door-less doorway allowing them to pass. Nothing else separates them from the baseline area, yet Ché stops and turns to Aria.
"...So...I'm not...I guess- We could continue towards the city in various ways...but...if you don't mind b-lining in crowded areas...you might want to make use of the Arcurio Kaanaiisiga Transit Authority network. It's the largest metropolitan rapid transit system in the Federation, and it has an excellent reputation when it comes to punctuality. It connects to Tovil and Pakuri as well, and in my opinion, it's the best way to visit the Nouvelle Rouvenor memorial site. The elevated monorail that goes from here to the city center is quite enjoyable as well...if we can find a seat near a window. I suppose our chances are good in first class, although I'm not sure, I usually don't travel first class."
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"It seems like first class usually comes with a sense of assured well-being that no one else gets to enjoy. We live most of our lives that way.
"If I have a choice, I'd rather try something different."
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/me nods and frowns a little.
"Of course. So...we take our chances in 2nd class, or...?"
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"Well ... I guess it depends on which sort of sights I'm seeing. Architecture is nice, but since second class is going to be full of people...."
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The guards at the Terminal check-in allow another individual through. Clad in a black overcoat, with gold threading betraying the Amarrian origin of its make, he proceeds after getting clearance into the segregated area. A wide smile forms on Utari's face as he notes Aria and Ché, that face a curious mix of sharp Civire features, framed by high Amarrian cheek bones and wrapped in the soft tanned glow of a Ni-kunni's skin.
Stepping beside the two, he listens to the end of the conversation before speaking. "Aria, Mr Biko, how wonderful to see you both here on Caldari Prime. Forgive me for butting in, but it sounds like you're deciding how to travel on further. Perhaps a rental hovercar for seeing the city sites?"
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"Saisieni and salve, Mr. Onzo...." Aria's manner remains serene-ish with obvious difficulty as she restrains her face from beaming and her toes from levitating three inches off the floor. "It's ... good to see you. Um. I don't mind traveling by hovercar, or ..." she trails off with a shrug.
"Whichever way we don't take I might maybe try later."
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Ché smiles at Onzo, and bows his head to him. "Please...call me Ché."
He looks at Onzo and Aria in turn, then nods. "A hover-car may provide a more suitable environment for conversation."
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"... Sure."
Aria's attention is decreasingly on the topic at hand as she goes back to watching her surroundings (though she also tends to be within a couple feet of Utari).
"That last scanner back there ... that was checking us for biologicals. I guess they're worried about invasive species, that sort of thing? ... I guess it's not surprising on such an important planet, though I can't see very many exactly thriving here. Well-- aside from microorganisms, I guess. Those seem to pop up everywhere."
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Utari nods to Ché. "Well, if you two don't mind me bumbling along, we can go see about renting one."
He listens to Aria, then turns back from where they came, his brow furrowing slightly as he contemplates. "I'd well imagine it's that, any invasive flora and fauna that could survive would already be established by now, especially after generations of space travel.. Amoung other things. Microbial would be the biggest threat. A new virus, or bacteria, perhaps a fungus that could enter the ecosystem would cause absolute havoc. It's not like this planet breeds much variety genetically speaking. You grow strong and resistant to cold, or you die. Only a small number of species of plant and animal life, comparitively speaking, endure."
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"Not at all." Ché smiles to Onzo, then looks around the terminal for a moment before returning his attention to the conversation.
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"Well ... put an ocean or a mountain range in the way and I'd think things would look pretty different in a million years, but ... I guess people haven't been here that long, anyway. I'm sure someone's worked out which plants and animals here share a lot of the human genome and which ... well, don't?"
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"Oh I don't doubt that. Anyways, shall we?" Utari gestures further down the Terminal, towards the exit. If they agree, he leads the group to a small desk where he signs the paperwork to rent a hovercar.
"So, anywhere in paticular to explore in this city? I've heard of a few good places if you want to see the nitty gritty of it, but I was interested in your opinions?"
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"Uh ... the list of things that don't interest me is really short?"
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"Alright, well, I think I know a good place. The Akiikala park in Dostrict 7. The canopy is something to see, after that perhaps the business area of District 24. Should give you a taste of the hodge podge of Gallente and Caldari culture here to start off."
Utari smiles as he leads the group further through to the Terminal's exit. Outside, the constant snow continues to fall down from the heavens as a modest hovercar is pulled up. He gestures for Ché and Aria to climb on in before taking the driver's seat.
Driving off at an easy pace, Utari gestures to the buildings of District One and towards the Qaiian Tower. Tall, and proud, the reconstructed spire almost seems to point upwards in an act of defiance against natural laws. A true monument of glass and steel.
"The one thing that surprises me of this city is, for one of the more exposed cities, it retains a lot of its Caldari heritage in the architecture. I'm interested to see if that applies to the local families as well. Considering the majority here still identify as Caldari by heritage if not by citizenship, it makes for quite the melting pot I imagine."
He takes a moment's pause as they travel further down the autoroad from the Terminal, the Gravball Stadium coming in to view. "Of course, the Gallente have still made their mark. As much as that Stadium over there tries to emulate the heritage of the Caldari, it just can't help adding colour."
The Stadium itself arcs upwards like a large birds nest. Steel and glass exterior cover the oval shape, while giant screens around its exterior show advertisement and promotional videos for the Arcurio team and their sponsors.
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"It's interesting that they try, though...."
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Utari nods as he listens to Aria. "Aye, it is. But I think that might have something to do with Gallente culture more then Caldari. I get the impression the Federation seeks to quietly absorb, rather then crush, adding those elements it likes over generations and slowly drowning away those it doesn't. It's like a cultural survival of the fittest. Of course, all Cultures do this to a greater or lesser extent, but in the Federation it's on overdrive."
He pulls off the main highway as they approach District 7, signs in dual Napanii and Gallente pointing the way to various sub districts. Approaching the park, a giant oval shaped building greets the party. Its canopy, bulging slightly up from the sides is made of several glass and metal framed parts, slowly pulling open like a flower bud as the snow subsides. Shining like a jewel in the cold air, the glass 'petals' fold up and back, crowning the long curve of the building. Multiple entrances and carparks dot along its length and it is at one of these Utari pulls up.
"Well, here we are, just in time to see it open up too."
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"Do you think they do that kind of cultural ... drowning away, on purpose? ... Oh."
Aria watches the unfolding structure.
"That ..." she seems to look for something to say, then gives up and goes with "... is really pretty."
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Utari considers Aria's reply as he gets out of the hovercar. "Aye it is pretty, let's see how it looks inside."
He escorts the group to the entrance, a large set of double doors that slide back upon their approach. Immediately upon entering, the group is met with an enourmous park lawn, complete with meandering paths, large groupings of evergreen trees and various citizens relaxing among the grass. What almost appears to be a small wood dominates the center, with the interior walls cladded with reflective mirrors to give the illusion of an infinite expanse. Above, the roof petals continue to shimmer in the cold air, the Caldari Prime sunlight reflecting down on the greenland underneath.
"Do I think it's deliberate? Yes. For any civilisation to survive it requires a fundamental purpose, a core belief that glues it together. As much as a certain amount of cultural osmosis takes place for adaptability, a civilisation still needs to discard those traits that threaten that core belief or be damned to fail. The Federation's core belief is Liberty, almost at any cost."
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"Well ... that's true, but I kind of thought you were speaking more broadly. What about traits that aren't inimical to it that it just doesn't ... really take to? I've heard that the Raata living in the Federation might actually be closer to the old Caldari way of life than the Caldari are."
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He walks steadily along one of the park's paths with the group, enjoying the sights as he replies. "In the case of groups like the Raata, who is to say they haven't yet influenced the Federation in some way? If not now, I can imagine in a few years some fashion designer will rip off the clothing, or someone might make a holofilm about them that'll prove wildly popular. Perhaps tourism afterwards will want to come and see. Just because their way of life isn't something the every man of the Federation chooses for himself doesn't mean that there won't be some form of influence, even if it's perhaps in a twisted form. Still, so long as a trait isn't seen as a threat or detrimental, generally it'll be slowly consumed, or left at the wayside and ignored.
On the counter side, should the Federation turn to a much more nationalistic streak, more anti-caldari in all its forms, do you think they'll spare the Raata simply because they don't associate with the State? What of the small Achur community?"
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"Well ... that's partly what I'm here to see, after all."
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Utari nods to Aria. "Naturally." He stops and gestures to a collection of sarcodes gathered near a pine tree. It looks to be growing strong and healthy, the fringed bracts coloured from a light orange blending out to a deep scarlet towards the edges.
"Consider this flower. It's the Snowflower, so named as it blossoms here just as the worst of the snow stops. But the scientific name in the Amarr tongue is sarcodes sanguinea. It lives in a co-existance with the trees, or more exactly the mycorrhiza fungus that lives off of the trees. Exchanging fixed carbon for nutrients and water, it's a hardy flower. The fungus itself lives off of the tree root, and protects both the tree and the sarcodes from various pathogens. For a 'vampire' flower it's awfully considerate."
He then points out an artificial pond not far off, with a few lily pads floating along the surface. "And over there, we have yellow water lilies from the Federation. These ones have been bred to survive lower temperatures I've heard, lying dormant when the frost sets in as they are still doing now. During the warmer months, they flower quite beautifully. However, one must consider that water lilies left unchecked can be an invasive plant. Pretty, delicate and popular, but allowed to run loose it's able to slowly suffocate out the other plants around it."
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"... huh. Invasive species usually start by being really well-adapted to a place in a different setting. It's not the plant that's the problem; it's where the plant ends up. Though ... I'm not sure how much like ecology the relationship between human cultures is. We're not separate species; we're all just one. Water lilies don't take over your pond by turning other flowers into more of themselves."
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"True but in this case the potential invasive qualities of the plant are already widely known. Not so say these water lilies aren't carefully managed to prevent it, but the risks are still there and well documented.
On the topic of culture and plants, I do confess to some amount of bias. It's bittersweet walking on this planet for myself, so I apologise if that slips in from time to time."
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"True but in this case the potential invasive qualities of the plant are already widely known. Not so say these water lilies aren't carefully managed to prevent it, but the risks are still there and well documented.
On the topic of culture and plants, I do confess to some amount of bias. It's bittersweet walking on this planet for myself, so I apologise if that slips in from time to time."
"Hm."
She's silent for a long moment, looking over the scene.
"... Maybe for me, too, I guess. I'm half Civire, after all. I've been trying to work out ... whether I feel anything special for this place. I'm still not sure."
Another pause.
"Utari? Don't you think the Amarr are susceptible to the very same arguments? ... only if the Federal cultural structure is contagious by nature, it seems like the Empire is contagious by design. And the Gallente keep going around leaving little islands of other cultures inside the Federation, more or less fully intact-- the Raata, the Jin Mei, the Intaki, even some expatriate Achura. I can't really imagine the Empire doing that.
"Isn't the idea that the Federation is a greater threat really just based on a lot of bad blood?"
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Utari bites his lip slightly and takes a while to reply.
"Aria, as someone who visited the Empire I feel like you should know better. While, yes, the Empire is unified in government and faith, each region under each Heir is quite different from the others. The Ni-Kunni continue to thrive culturally in their home planet, the Khanid of the Kingdom, while it's murky how close to the Empire they truly are, they still continue to celebrate their cultures. The Enclaves also exist there where the Caldari are practically blossoming."
He sighs and clicks his tongue. "The Federation believes in the self, liberty, elections. It's a fragile system that works as far as I've gathered on faith, faith in the good of man. It works, for the most part, but it has a chronic vulnerability in that emphasis on the self. I don't think they've ever been truly put under pressure to test their resilience, and I have the feeling if we all follow their ways... We will be found wanting.
The Empire on the otherhand has endured a lot, infact its endured some potentially crippling events all in close sucession and continues to endure. I believe in God, desire a safe and secure home and I know the Empire is a safe bet for continual stability. It won't always be the same kind of Empire, you learnt yourself it can adapt where it needs to, but out of the two, Amarr and Gallente, I think the Empire will prove to be the stronger in the long term."
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"Yes, I was there. Yeah, it was more diverse than I expected. I'm not saying that the Empire's a monoculture. But I have to wonder what you'll have to do to the Gallente, to make them feudal and obedient, and to make them see God like you do.
"I wonder what will be left of them. No doubt they'll still have their own culture when you're done, just like ... the Ni-Kunni do. I wonder how much it'll look like it does, now."
She turns to look up at him, a little unhappily. Her voice is very quiet.
"You know I can't ... see God, when I look at the Empire, Utari. I'm still a heathen. I see most of what you said, but I don't see Him. ... Just a very useful social construct. That difference changes a lot of things, like ...
"... like whether I think a people being revised and edited to fit is something to celebrate, or something really sad. That's the same for me, whether it's the Amarr doing it, or the Gallente."
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"And that, dear Aria, is where we differ. I believe ultimately human society is trying to achieve stasis. In due time, one culture will dominate over others by a long and slow process. It is my belief that it is the Gallente or the Amarr that will end up the foremost in that race, and it should be plain who I'm banking on."
He stiffens a little, the proverbial walls coming up as Aria prods at the subject. Biting his lip once more, he turns his vision back to the park, then upwards to the sky. He takes a slow breath. "Shall we see more of the park or shall we head to the business district? I understand there's more of the Gallentean influence down there."
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"Mm." It's more than half a sigh.
"Well, I'm enjoying the park a lot. Tell you what-- we stay here for the moment, and you try pointing out all the Gallentean bits? The place has been under Federal rule for most of the last two hundred years, and I'm really curious how Gallentean style and culture's been interacting with Caldari."
She pauses a beat, and then adds with an impish grin, "... Even if I'm hearing it from the competing brand's representative.
"I'm guessing those water lilies are Gallentean influence. What else?"
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Utari furrows his brow slightly, his eyes darting around before resting at the wood of evergreen trees towards the centre. "Ah, look over there, what looks a little out of place?"
He gestures to where his eyes are pointed, a copse of evergreen pines, kresh varients and the occasional hardy oak. Rising slightly higher then the other trees, towards the middle, are a collection of deep brown-to-red barked sequoia. "If I didn't know any better, that's redwood. One particular species is known to grow on the Jin-Mei home planet, but the biggest come from some of the more mountainous planets in the Federation."
He guides the group along a path closer, passing beside trees as he continues speaking. "Redwoods are evergreens, just like these Caldari pines. They get their name from the distinctive bark colour, it really stands out from the muddy browns and tans surrounding it. They also happen to grow fast, and extremely tall. Good job they put this thing in the middle."
Most of the redwoods stand only a little higher then their coniferous cousins, swaying slightly in the open air. The 'leaves', composed of needles sprouting in leaf shapes, give a feint almost chittering, rustling sound as they move with the slight breeze. "These are relatively new trees, not much older then maybe fifty, sixty? Might also be Jin-Mei, those ones tend to grow little slower and shorter. Wonderful looking when they reach full height, especially among the oaks at fall."
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Aria's smile is just a tinge melancholy.
"And here I was afraid you might pick something ... troubling. Or sad. Thank you for not doing such a thing.
"Utari? I ... have a question for you. This idea that there's eventually going to be a sort of cultural conqueror, a ... 'winner' that dominates all other cultures.... Coming from a culture that, on the face of it, doesn't seem to have much chance of emerging dominant, and doesn't seem to even want to ... it seems just unutterably sad. Certainly, there's a tendency for things to mix at the edges, and some cultures are more aggressive than others, but ... must it be so simple? New things will emerge. New patterns we can't even imagine from where we are now. There'll be changes, permutations, and they won't be evenly distributed. Even the Ancients don't seem to have had only one culture, one society.
"The Amarr and Gallente both have strong interests in seeing their ways of thinking spread. But why would human society in general be trying to achieve anything at all? It's not as though most of humanity wants either would-be conqueror to succeed."
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"I agree that there is always change, and bleeding between cultures. The Empire of the future might very well be radically different from the Empire of today, as with the Federation. But at their core, they will be the same, faith in God against faith in Man."
He runs his hand down the bark of the redwood, feeling its lumps and bumps under his palm. "Humanity is driven to create civilisation like trees are driven to dig roots into the ground. You, yourself made the argument we construct reasons to believe in something greater then just the raw number of people we can know and care about. Within that concept, the strongest of those unified peoples will always need to compete. For resources, for influence, for power, for a goal. In the end, violence, commerce and diplomacy are simply tools for theshort and long term interests of a state. The Empire seeks to unify man under God, and requires power and dominance in order to do that where it cannot otherwise convince people of its goal simply by its message. Is it a bad thing? To some, but those are the facts of it. We have a mission, and it demands our success in due time."
"As for why we want to achieve anything at all? We all die. Even Capsuleers. Individually, many members of humanity will not leave a mark in history beyond being a number on a population census, or a casualty report from an accident or attack. Not all of us will be able to be remembered by thousands, millions or billions for our exploits, so we project that need to have some sense of immortality in memory upon a culture, a flag. If our nation can be strong and achieve its goals, as citizens of it we can feel we've done our part in creating an immortal history to be taught down the ages. We assisted in creating something that, even if it fails, will leave monuments and records for further research and discovery. It's the closest thing to living forever the base human will get in this world, leaving aside the religious points of Paradise and the afterlife."
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"Is that all you meant when you said that human society is trying to achieve stasis? People trying to create something that will outlive them?"
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"That is one of the pulls that I feel compels us towards stasis. There's also in the Amarrian school of thinking the need to unite Man under God once more, and the Gallentean drive to bring Liberty to all corners. But the fundamental drive is that desire to build something lasting, and the bigger your civilisation, the more likely it'll be remembered through the ages even after it falls. It's an eternal race to the top."
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"... Well ... I guess if I were trying to build something I was sure would last a long time, it would look a lot like the Empire. It doesn't seem like a very fundamental drive to me, though. More like ..." She pauses, wincing slightly, but forges ahead nevertheless. "... like an outgrowth of pride.
"Everywhere I go, most people mostly just want to lead happy, useful lives. Things don't have to last forever, to be worthwhile."
She pauses. Then:
"Maybe ... Utari? Maybe distant, long-range ideas of the future aren't a good topic for us. I ... really don't want to be conquered. It's ... um ... become kind of a nightmare of mine since meeting Lady Rkard."
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Utari bows his head slightly to Aria. "As you wish. It was not my intention to cause any upset, perhaps I speak my mind to blunty sometimes."
He takes another moment to look around the scene. Various families, off duty workers in warm coats and tourists seem to make their way lazily around the park's interior. The usual business attire of the native Caldari is obvious, with the odd garnish of colour in a scarf, or a young adult's rebellious haircut.
"Hmm.."
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"Civire blood. It's ... a quality we share."
She follows his gaze thoughtfully.
"Flares like that-- also Gallentean influence, also, I guess?"
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"Yes. Fashion has a tendancy to get around. That young man with the soiked hair style over there's probably a mixed blood like us. Considering his suit, it seems like he's able to get a steady job despite his heritage. One of the effects of freedom laws I suppose."
The gentleman in question sports the defined brows and cheekbones of a Civire, but with the roundness towards the jaw typical to Luminaire Gallente. His hair is short and spiked up, dyed at the tips a fire red in contrast with black.
"This is of course just a casual observation on first looks. I wonder how truly comfortable his life really is, whether there is still some element of racism in the corporate buildings. Perhaps subtle, rather then overt."
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"It wouldn't surprise me at all. People really seem to think of blood as something important. Matari, Caldari, Amarr ... all of us kind of stuck on it.
"Even that thing I just said about our Civire blood. Civire have a reputation for aggression and bluntness, but how much of that is just people ... expecting Civire to act like Civire? Even us? What's blood and what's culture?
"... I wonder whether the Gallente have gotten past things like that, focusing so much on standing out as individuals. Or maybe they're just more embarrassed about it?"
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"I'm not sure they're immune to racism. Not so long ago, there was a case involving a young Matari man killing several ethnic Gallente. Allegedly it was in self defence against what he percieved to be a racially motivated attack. It certainatly stirred tensions up between erstwhile allies."
He sighs softly. "I think the Gallente strive for individualism more as a rebellion against their hodgepodge of races and cultures, rather then being a progression from base discrimination. When officially 'race' doesn't matter, you've only really got 'the self' to fight back with."
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"I certainly wouldn't say 'immune.' Wasn't there a lot of anti-Caldari ... violence, and vandalism, back at the start of the Pendulum War? Before it even began? ... It doesn't seem like something they want to believe in, though."
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Utari stiffens slightly at the mention of violence. "Yes. I remember that, rather clearly actually." He looks away for a moment, his face darkening before regaining its usual diplomatic composture.
"Officially, the line of the Federation has always been one of tolerance to cultures and faiths so long as they don't cross certain boundaries, such as political, moral or the like. It's an uncomfortable truth for the Federation that they have just as much xenophobia as the other CONCORD signatories. Theirs just lies under the rug rather then up on a poster."
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"If you can slide it under a rug, doesn't that imply that there's maybe a bit less of it?"
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"Perhaps a little less, yes. No doubt being raised to believe in everyone being equal and equally special in their own snowflake way helps in that regard. But that doesn't mean tensions aren't there.
When everyone is made equal, there are always issues that some might be perceived to be more equal then others. Humanity seems to love its hierarchies."
He takes a moment's pause once more. "I must apologise to you both if my ingrained bias is painting a rather grim view of the Federation. I guess I have deep seated reasons beyond just my faith, not least considering my father's blood was spilled on this planet. Please do feel free to interject a counter argument. Both of you."
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"Well ... I think it's one a lot of Caldari share, though, some more strongly still. I know ... or ... think ... you're not a believer in the idea that the True Amarr are the Chosen of God, fated to conquer and rule. You're okay with seeing their power weaken. Otherwise, there's no way you'd be supporting House Tash-Murkon, right? So it's not inconsistent for you to be talking about racialist ideas as bad.
"... but ... like you say, you do seem to have some strong feelings about the Federation, so ... hm. Those paths are pretty well worn. Hundreds of billions of Caldari feet have tread that ... same ground. And that's kind of my background, too.
"I can see the troubles without even having to open my eyes, and that's sort of the problem. I guess what I'm more interested in is ... I'd like to know what you find to admire, here, and in the Federation, generally.
"It's clear what you think is bad about the Gallente, Utari. But ... what's good? Or even just okay?"
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Utari takes the time to consider his answer before replying.
"Well, aside from the plants here? Despite my use of it in a negative example, I actually like the look of water lilies.... Pressed as I am for a proper answer, I suppose art is one thing."
"Bel learned to dance in the Federation, not that club pop stuff of course.. I think.. but classical dancing from all kinds of backgrounds. She's quite the talent at it. And, while I'm not a fan of the extremes that art can take in the Federation, I do admire atleast their love for creating beautiful things. That's possibly the Ni-Kunni influence in me talking, my great grandfather was a sculptor you know. I like that here on this planet as well as far as I've seen, they're trying to keep their additions to the landscape matching with the rest of the city."
"I guess I also respect, if not totally agree to the extent of, their pursuit for inclusiveness. You know I bow to all above me in the Empire, but my main political allegiance is to the Tash Murkon family. Heirarchy needs to be established, but I don't believe one's racial heritage should burden your family forever. If one has capability and talent, one should have avenues for promotion. If one is incompetant, one should have avenues for demotion."
"That's not to say I approve of 'positive discrimination' but none the less, I appreciate they aim to include all in their vision for humanity. Even if I personally think it's the wrong one. Oh, and their love of business, there's good reason the Amarr Empire signed a trade deal with the Gallente."
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"I have been liking the art. It's ... not as formal as it was in the Empire. And, it ... exists, which puts it ahead of a lot of the State. It does take some sort of ... upsetting forms, but I guess if you're going to let people do whatever they want your results are going to vary.
"Business ... I'm not sure any major player doesn't love business. It's a way of getting power without having to fight over it. Maybe if Achura were more materialistic we'd have more real influence in the world.
"We'd be ... really different, though. Harder to tell from the Caldari."
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Utari gives a slight nod as he listens. "Perhaps. The Achur however always struck me as being a little more connected to their spirituality then the Caldari."
-
"Without ... quite disagreeing, each people practices its spirituality in its own context.
"This world taught the Caldari the importance of material resources. Achura has always been reluctant to let us keep ours. The Caldari forever prepare for winter, spirituality or no, but the Achura know that the moment you are happy and well-fed will be the time you lose everything. Roofs will fall, possessions will blow away, people will die.
"Maybe the world will be kinder, after. Maybe not. Either way, you get the transient nature of things stuck in your face a lot. And there's a lot of reason to ... remember ... people you've lost, when death can come so abruptly.
"Of course, now we've got storm and earthquake-proof Caldari cities sprouted all over the landscape, and Achur settlements are looking pretty modern, too. But then, the Caldari haven't really had to fear winter in a few hundred years, either.
"It seems like the Gallente tend even more towards atheism than the Caldari do. I wonder why that is."
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"It certainly seems the Gallente lean more towards atheism. That reminds me of a conversation I had with Mr Lafisques at the PPC. He said the Gallente seem to have faith in man. As in, a faith in the basic good of humanity and their fellow man. I get the impression it's sort of a pseudo-religion founded around an idealised concept of a good person, reinforced by the culture of liberty."
"The Amarr pray at the Altar of God. The Gallente seem to pray at the Booth of the Voting Office, and at the Table of Creativity."
-
"That doesn't ... seem quite right. Sure, they seem to be happier to let individuals be whoever they want, but I'm not at all sure they think that individual is going to make ... good choices reliably at all.
"My antecedent would have agreed with you about worshipping another god, but the one I think she would have identified is the god of 'Rights.' She used to invite Gallentean partisans to catch her a right, saying she wanted to mount it on her wall.
"To which end ... I think maybe it's less about having faith in people, and more about standing aside and letting people make their mistakes if they're going to. Maybe you help them up, after; maybe you don't. Either way, you let them make their own choices, even if those lead to disaster.
"Maybe that implies some sort of faith that they'll get it right, but ... the focus seems more anti-hierarchical than really ... to expect good things from humanity, generally. I guess, to put it another way, it seems sort of, 'Don't you go sticking your stupid mistakes down my neck.'"
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"While I normally wouldn't be one to argue against a Gallente on their views on their own people, what you've presented seems like it might a bit closer to the mark."
Utari stops for a moment, and takes a quick gaze around the park. "I think that's about all this place has to offer untill the warmer seasons start. Shall we go see what the business centre is like?"
-
"Sure!"
-
Utari leads the group back to their vehicle and takes a short drive from the park. Nearby, the Qaiian Tower is visible as they head into the business heart of the city, and the monorail network zigzags over the top of the road, protected by a heated snow canopy.
Pulling up at one of the mass public carparks once more, Utari leads the group on foot into a busy high street. Various shops, stores, offices and the like line a long stretch of walkway, various suited proffessionals moving along. It has the usual hustle and bustle feel of any city's financial complex, with businessmen and women walking past engrossed in their personal communications trying to close their next sale.
Many of the business are Caldari of origin, with both Ishukone and Nugoeihuvi subsidaries present, particularly futures stockbrokerages and Hedgefunds host themselves in this district. Sitting shoulder to shoudler with these State enterprises are corporations of Federal origin, including a branch office of the Garon Investment Bank. Finally, smaller, independant businesses jostle for space in small offices, in some cases just a sign and a small door leading down a staircase advertising for the odd accountant or solicitor's private firm. One such small company proudly advertises itself as a Father and Sons business of Caldari origin, but no sign of the usual affiliation to a State Megacorp.
-
Aria murmurs, as she watches out the window, "The world is certainly full of things.... Hm.
"Is that an actual small business? I guess this city is under Gallentean administration, after all."
-
"I can well imagine it's been passed down from father to son since the Caldari-Gallente war."
Utari considers for a moment. "I wonder how they might react to being incorporated into a megacorp's profile? Right now they're enjoying the priviledge of being able to operate independantly, for better or worse, but if and when the State gets full control of this planet, would they be able to adapt to being part of a bigger machine?"
-
"Didn't the State already have full control of the planet? For ... um. A few years?"
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"To an extent I would describe it more of an occupation then a reintergration. For most of the time this planet was in State hands, it was under Military rule. Let's not forget that Heth in his later years seemed intent on dismantling the Megacorp system, and the Provists had a large presence."
"I can well believe small businesses like this slipped under the radar, and avoided being subsumed by a Megacorp. I could also believe the Provists might have cared little if your business was independant or not, so long as you were seen to be Caldari. The emphasis was more on removing Gallente influences, and pro nationalistic Caldari sentiment, rather then incorporation."
-
"... I suppose that's true. Well ... I guess if it came to that, it would probably be a little like having a small holding on an outlying world absorbed into the Amarrian feudal hierarchy. It wouldn't probably be all bad, but I'd guess it might be kind of hard to swallow, especially at the time."
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Utari nods. "It certainly would need some getting used to. But I suppose as with all things on this planet, everyday life continues regardless of the circumstances."
He leads the group further along the street. Among the various native business people are the odd Ni-Kunni trader and a handful of Minmatar. A holoadvert projects various services before announcing the upcoming elections of local officials for the district.
Next to the holoadvert, a small stand sits stubbornly against the snow. It is manned by a Civire, advertising for evergreen tea to go, which he appears to be making a steady business from. "Thirsty?" Utari asks.
-
"Even if I weren't especially...."
-
Ché had been quietly following a few steps behind Utari and Aria and seemed to just enjoy the sightseeing as he listened to the conversation, although to what extend he was actually listening remains somewhat of a mystery. His responses to the conversation had been subtle and non-verbal; a (sometimes cheeky) smile here, a frown there. Occasionally he seemed about to say something, but never actually did. Only when directly adressed and invited to provide a counter-argument to Utari's bias did he speak, with a cheeky smile.
"We Gallente prefer to let our culture speak for itself, as it does that quite well."
He looks towards the tea stand. "I'd like something warm."
The holoadvert switches to a short clip of the 3 capsuleers walking through the park, the captions mentioning the individuals and the nature of their presence pretty accurately.
"I guess we've been Scoped." he says nodding towards the holoadvert.
He pulls a knit cap from his coat as he looks around at the people nearby, then puts it on his head and pulls it over his ears as he smiles.
"Say, Utari...Onzo-haan..." he started, not really sure how he wished to be adressed by him. "You spoke of seasons...what exactly...is a season...what are seasons on Caldari Prime? I know the rotational axis isn't very tilted...I actually thought the planet was going through a warm phase at the moment due to solar activity and proximity to the sun."
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Passing over some local currency to the stand owner, he watches as three small cups of tea are made. "Utari will be fine as we all know each other, but if you preffer formalities Mr Onzo will suffice. I haven't been Onzo-Haan in some time. Among my fellow Amarr, it's Brother or Sir Onzo."
He passes them each a cup once the brew is done, before blowing his and taking a sip. It's musky, with a sharpness of pine and a warm undercurrent to the flavour. "This planet has seasons of a fashion. They're longer lasting then on most other temperate planets, and the changes are a little more subtle, but they do exist. During the warm periods, Caldari Prime's 'summers', the temperate zone at the equater grows a little and the snows in the tundra areas ease off. It's a calming of the usual ever lasting winter, to the point some hardy plants can even flower in sheltered areas. It's why there's the opportunities for the park's roof to retract.
Winter, on the otherhand, is when the weather turns vicious, especially towards the polar regions. There's a reason why the Caldari emphasise the need to survive the winter, not that it's as dangerous as it once might have been."
-
"Cultural origins ... echo for a long time, at least in the State."
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Che takes his cup and clasps it in both hands, smelling the tea for a moment, then blows over it and peers up towards the sky, a misty white, but very bright in contrast with the dark high-rise buildings lining the streets in this area, their upper parts veiled by the mist. An occasional hovercar manuevers above the capsuleer's heads, between the buildings, careful not to collide with the few cables and wires dangling in the wind.
A monorail rushes past a nearby intersection. It's rather quiet, but the sound of it, as with any sound that manages to rise above the base noise, echos through the chasm-like streets, almost like it's being amplified.
A small group of birds, with white-grey bodies and black tails, feet, wings and heads, is startled by the passing monorail and flies over the group's heads. Ché points at them.
"Look! That's a subspecies of the hooded crow, only found in Arcurio. Hence, they are called Arcuriows."
Ché watches them fly up in the mist with a slight smile while clasping his cup in both hands again, seemingly wishing he could do the same to escape these cold dark busy streets.
-
Aria watches where Ché points, taking a cautious sip of her tea.
"Is the geography so isolating?"
-
Ché cocks his head side to side a little, pursing his lips.
"Hm, a little. I mean, like you've likely seen during our approach to the city, we are on a plateau between two bodies of water, with the Kaalakiota range in the north-east. I thinks it's mostly the abundance of food in the city that compels them to stay here."