Ross stopped by a decorative mirror, taking a second to inspect her attire, before moving on towards the Imperial Library. It was still early afternoon, and the University was bustling with activity. She had a light smile on her face, amused by the constant greetings from the more polite students she passed by. She couldn't help but think of the contrast, between this ordinary day for the university, the meeting that was about to happen here, and the contents of her handbag. It felt almost surreal at first, but she quickly dismissed that feeling. She had to keep her mind clear, and already almost missed the door while occupied with her thoughts. She checked her watch. Just on time, as usual.
She hesitated for a moment, standing in front of the conference room. She let out a sigh, gently knocked, before entering without anticipating an invitation.
- Director. - she announced her presence while slowly closing the door behind her. The room fell into silence, now isolated from the noisy halls outside.
''Lady Ross'', came the reply from the older man seated at the opposite end of the room. ''I trust there is a particular reason of some import that has you wanting to see me today? I have to admit, I was caught off guard at the suddenness of your message.'' He offered a glass of water while pouring himself one ''So how may I help you today?''
- There is indeed, director. Thank you. - she took the glass, then taking a seat. - I'm afraid the matter at hand is unrelated to the war, however. Not this war, at least, no. - she paused briefly, taking a sip. - I will be blunt, director. It's about the Nomads and their masters. Their achievements and knowledge. - another pause. - Something you have plenty of, don't you?
- Because I know you do, director. Sequested away in a certain gas giant, cut off from Bretonia's proper by the gallic advance. I don't know what it is exactly, I'll admit. But I know you have something. Everyone in my circles knows that. I also know of the crown's policy regarding such matters. - she went quiet for a few seconds. - I think your superiours display an extremely... Let's say, ignorant attitude regarding this, no matter how you look at it, treasure trove right at your fingertips. It is wasting away, ignored. A source of knowledge that could, potentially, turn the tide of our war with the Nomads. And I don't think I have to tell you, director, that it is a war we are losing.
He smiled faintly at the mentioned 'we', forgetting that the Gaians were equally interested in defeating the Nomads. ''You say a potential wealth of knowledge, I say I very dangerous remnant of a by gone era that has the real potential to get a lot of good people killed. But I'll humour you for the time being, what is it that you have in mind?''
- You have a virtually endless supply of Daam K'Vosh technology at your disposal, yet also a vested interested in getting rid of it all. My Order, on the other hand, and the Guard too, see the benefit of studying those items. Learning their secrets. Understanding the enemy that wishes our species extinct. I'd like to propose a compromise. - she took another sip from her glass, then going silent for a moment. - I want access to this supply, director. Everything remotely of interest, anything that'd otherwise end up disposed of without study. In return, I will provide the Services with full access to every bit of information we manage to gather. I believe it to be a win for both of us. You will get to maintain the appearances, and rid yourself of actual alien technology, while at the same time reaping all the benefits of studying it in detail. At virtually no expense, unless you would be generous enough to support our part of the endeavour.
It was his turn to sit in silence for a time, considering is directives and the laws which, while not written down, were no less real. He knew that Nomad technology could be powerful beyond measure, but the damage such technology could cause if misused would be disastrous. The question he kept asking himself was could he trust the Gaians? Such a question had no clear answer, and so the default was no.
''You make an interesting proposal, allow me then to offer some insight into my thoughts. I don't need to explain my reservations when it comes to nomad technology, I'm sure there are those within your order who have already expressed a dislike of this plan, but my other concerns revolve around this: How do I know I can trust you? True, I could give you what it is you seek, but what assurance do I have you can deliver? How do I know the information you provide is not only true but the full picture? As it stands I won't have any, I'd be giving away technology, regardless of how trivial it may seem, that has the potential to kill thousands, on your word of honour. Now far be it for me to question another organisations honour or worth, but you must appreciate my stance all the same. So, I ask you, what assurances can you give me?''
She smiled a little, listening to him speak. She took a moment to answer, just regarding him in the meanwhile.
- You have none, director. I have not yet had a chance to prove my reliability to you, nor do I have the ability to do so right away. Given an opportunity, however, I could easily rectify it. In whatever way you deem necessary. Within reason, of course.
He paused for a time, thinking over her words before asking another Question. ''Do the Gaians know anything about the Newcastle-Manchester Jump hole connection?'' While it seemed off topic, he had his reasons for asking.