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Dionae in the Federation

The Conglomerated Choir of Nralakk, first found in the Kelo'Hen System.

Considered the first sophont to have been discovered by the Nralakk Federation, and in the glaring wake of the manual labour problems experienced as a result of the Reign of Glorsh-Omega, Dionae were integrated into the recovering state by 2240. Despite this, they still experience heavy monitoring and more stringent rules placed on them as citizens. The majority of Dionae living in the Federation originate from the Conglomerated Choir of Nralakk, however, there is a growing population of the species from the Covenant of Xrim. Dionae, despite the additional control, overall have more benefits within the Nralakk Federation and are treated more or less equal to their Skrellian peers – with the Federation tailoring the Social Credit System to be more applicable to the species. It is not uncommon for Dionae who fail to meet the expectations of the Federation to emigrate and seek opportunities in Tau Ceti.

Treatment & Discrimination

Despite their early integration and long-standing presence within the Nralakk Federation, Dionae continues to face some forms of discrimination and stringent regulations – harsher than other Sophont counterparts in the Federation. This largely stems from a combination of the species' enigmatic existence, and their inability to tune into the Nlom. The Conglomerated Choir of Nralakk set the precedent for the relationship between the two species. While initial interactions were marked by curiosity and scientific interest, over time, the Federation's policies evolved to incorporate a more cautious and controlling approach. The Federation is wary of the Dionaes’ unique biological characteristics and potential for rapid growth, particularly following the damage done by Glorsh-Omega, and therefore sought a different approach to Dionae as they have to Skrell.

Overall, the Nralakk Federation is considered to be among one of the better States in regard to the treatment of Dionae. It is not uncommon to see Dionae enjoying themselves within the many cities of the Federation, even as far as the Traverse. However, they largely do not get the same comforts as the Skrell, with more travel and reproductive restrictions, and lesser access to state resources. The Federation has attributed this to the unique form of the social credit system applicable to the Dionae, while others have criticised it as essentially condoning discrimination of the species.

Discrimination against Dionae is not necessarily an easy process to spot. It is a more veiled, and subtle, art used against the species by Skrell. The species' lack of any ability to tune into the Nlom has resulted in large amounts of the conversation being lost on them – and despite attempts to assist these deficits with the creation of the Nlom Receiver, the ability to send psionic signals is still impossible. Dionae are likely, or have already, seen the effects of this throughout the Federation, particularly in professional environments though it is apparent in casual environments as well.

Governmental Regulation

Social Credit System

Subjected to an “equal yet separate” social credit system, the Dionae have unique interactions with the system. Initially implemented with harsh limitations that sought to limit their ability to reach higher social credit scores, and restricted travel for all registered Dionae, even the sizes of gestalts. This system was gradually replaced with the Dionae Equitable Social Credit System – or the DESCS. It is largely considered to be an adaption of the main system. It has been adapted to serve the interests of both the Nralakk Federation and Dionae. It is recognised that Dionae generally comprise secondary numerical, with an aggregate score of 5.72. While rare, there have been Dionae since their integration that have been able to achieve their dreams of being a primary numerical. It is tied to the entirety of the gestalt, as opposed to individual nymphs.

Inductive Behaviours

+ Displaying Loyalty to the Federation. Actively participating in community and governmental initiatives that promote the Federation’s values and goals.

+ Sustained Merge. Dionae that maintain their current gestalt will be considered stable, and therefore a continuous, contributing member of society.

+ Integration. Harmonious integration into the Federation. This largely involves ensuring compliance with Federation regulations on Dionae.

+ Peaceful Coexistence. Demonstrating peaceful and cooperative behaviour towards all species within the Federation.

+ Chipped. Dionae must ensure registration with the Federation.

+ Council of Dionae Integration and Adoption Certification. The Dionae has been certified by the Council as having been raised by a Skrellian Quya, and complied with recommendations, or was raised by another Dionae with a score higher than 5.51 that has been approved.

+ Cultural and Education Development. Pursuing further education and skills development that enhances both personal growth and societal contribution, as designated by the Council of Dionae Integration and Adoption.

+ Religion. Following a State-sanctioned religion, or the Orthodox Eternal.

+ Growth and Multiplying. A Dionae has complied with the regulations regarding reproduction.

Deductive Behaviours

- Displaying disloyalty to the Federation. Actions or speech that undermine the Federation’s authority or values.

- Destructive. Engaging in uncontrolled or harmful growth that poses risks to the environment or other citizens.

- Criminal Activities. Dionae have an obligation to report unsanctioned mergings or splittings, and failing to notify the Federation of such behaviour is considered infringing on its regulations for Dionae – they will be considered to have an association with criminal elements.

- Neglect of Duties. Failing to contribute to societal or environmental responsibilities expected of Dionae, as outlined by the Council of Dionae Integration and Adoption.

- Anti-Social Behaviour. Engaging in behaviours that disrupt social harmony or negatively impact the Federation’s wellbeing.

- Violation of Scientific Ethics. Participating in unethical scientific practices or research that endangers others or the environment. Those who leave the Covenant of Xrim, particularly the Scorned, and seek residence in the Federation generally get this applied to them.

- Religion. Following a non-State sanctioned religion, but in particular, the Iron Eternal, unless it is the Enlightened's perspective.

Monitoring

Dionae are routinely monitored by the Council of Dionae Integration and Adoption, mostly through their chips. Each Dionae, upon being disgorged, is required to be chipped as soon as possible. This provides them with an identification number, attached to it generally is every significant action that a Dionae will ever do. This system is public, and any citizen of the Nralakk Federation may search the identification number of a Dionae to acquire a detailed infographic on their actions throughout their life. Dionae further must ensure that they are approved by the Council of Dionae Integration and Adoption to reproduce, failure to do so has been considered an offence within the Nralakk Federation and can result in a social credit score being lowered and a fine. It is not uncommon for the Council of Dionae Integration and Adoption to perform routine examinations on Dionae, usually on a biannual period, to ensure that no unsanctioned mergings or splittings have occurred.

Reproduction

Dionae are not allowed to reproduce without express permission from the Council of Dionae Integration and Adoption. Though a biological impulse, and not necessarily able to be controlled, reproduction is still monitored within the Federation. Dionae must submit themselves to the Council to be approved to raise the next generation, where failure to be approved typically results in the newborns being assigned to another Dionae, or being raised by a Skrellian Quya. Similarly to Skrell, Dionae must sustain a high enough credit score, and further be issued a certification, to be able to reproduce. Dionae may only reproduce in designated areas, such as the Spiral Garden’s Nurseries – this is to ensure that they are chipped in an appropriate amount of time, and their needs are taken care of before undergoing evaluation by the Council of Dionae Integration and Adoption.

Genetic Absorption

There are strict regulations concerning genetic absorption for Dionae. Those found to be engaging in unsanctioned genetic absorption can find themselves with heavy deductions and possibly even conviction if the absorption caused damage to the environment or peoples of the Nralakk Federation. The Council of Dionae Integration and Adoption has placed across the Federation multiple sites in which Dionae can explore genetic absorption – following an appointment, of course. The “Greenhouse Education Centres” are entirely overseen by the Council, and ensure the regulation of genetic absorption in the Nralakk Federation. Over the course of their operation, they hold drives to acquire genetic information – donating is therefore incentivised by an increase in a non-Dionae’s increase in their social credit score. The genetic information presented is then categorised and stored. To acquire such the ability to absorb these donations, Dionae must first acquire an appointment with the Greenhouse Education Centre, undergo a brief evaluation, and depending on their social credit score, be presented with genetic information for absorption. Tertiary numericals are generally only allowed to absorb blood samples, with secondary numericals being offered more significant samples, and lastly, only primary’s being allowed active nerve tissue and brain matter.

Re-education

The Nralakk Federation has long been recognized for its stringent control over its populace, ensuring that every citizen adheres to its societal norms and values. Among the Federation's many unique populations, the Dionae have distinctive physiological traits and require special methods of control and re-education. The Federation's approach to managing and ensuring the loyalty of the Dionae is both intricate and invasive, involving advanced techniques of re-education that border on biological manipulation. The physiological and psychological nature of Dionae necessitates a different approach to re-education compared to other species within the Federation. Being composed of smaller individuals that can split and merge when necessary, a unique challenge was presented to the Federation. Traditional re-education methods are often ineffective or impossible due to their collective consciousness and physiological make-up. To address this, the Federation employs are more invasive and intricate method, and when a Dionae is identified as being “non-compliant” or “non-desirable” as a result of their Social Credit Score, the Dionae will be forced to split into its individual nymphs. These nymphs are generally absorbed into pre-selected, loyal Dionae. The individual nymphs will typically be conditioned by these Dionae, instilling them with the values and ideals of the Federation. It involves intense psychological conditioning, and once these has been complete, the next step in the process begins. The individual nymphs will then be required to absorb genetic material presented to them. The most common being spinal fluid, and typically reinforced with other donations from “loyal” citizens of the Federation – such as blood, or bone marrow. This can be a repeated process and generally is only considered “concluded” when the examining re-education officer has confirmed that each nymph has been successfully re-educated. They are then permitted to remerge, with their social credit score reset to five. A fresh start under the guiding eye of the Nralakk Federation.

Council of Dionae Integration and Adoption

The Council of Dionae Integration and Adoption was temporarily implemented shortly after the first contact with the species and saw permanent status in 2240 CE. The Council is typically appointed by the Grand Council of the Nralakk Federation, in which those selected to oversee the affairs shall serve a maximum of twenty years – or two ten-year terms. They are the administrators of Dionae affairs within the Nralakk Federation. They monitor the species through their various facilities scattered across the Federation’s territories, and will regularly conduct examinations of Dionae at “random”. Though when initially implemented it comprised mostly of Skrell, its total appointments are roughly 30% Dionae – who work in conjunction with the Council to ensure that their species complies with the Federation’s regulations on their existence. The Council of Dionae Integration and Adoption is also important to the general existence of Dionae within the Federation. They will certify that Nymphs have been chipped, and maintain a roll of “registered Gestalts” – even post-humorously. They also administrate the Greenhouse Education Centres, reporting back when genetic information has been donated and absorbed. Lastly, they are the foremost authority on reproduction, ensuring that Dionae comply with the reproductive regulations issued by the Council, and maintaining the Nurseries, and ensuring the general upkeep of the Spiral Gardens.

Employment Opportunities

The Nralakk Federation restricts no employment opportunities from Dionae – with notable Dionae being found even in high administrative positions. Dionae are not merely inhabitants of Nralakk society but are cultivated with precise intentions to serve the Federation’s multifaceted needs. Their unique biological and cognitive abilities make them invaluable assets when tailored for specific purposes. From scientific research and industrial labour to diplomatic roles and intelligence operations, each Dionae is grown and nurtured to fulfil a predetermined duty, thus ensuring the Federation’s functionality and advancement.

Within the scientific community, Dionae are cultivated for their unparalleled abilities and capacity for knowledge absorption. These Dionae are typically nurtured with the express intent to make them ideal for roles in scientific research and development – they are often granted additional appointments in which to gain genetic material from the Federation’s foremost minds, allowing them to inherit and build upon existing knowledge. They play a crucial role, despite their psionic deficits, in advancing the Federation’s technological and scientific frontiers, contributing to innovations in fields ranging from simple civilian designs to even advanced military applications.

Although the Federation’s industrial sectors largely see themselves beginning to comprise mostly Vaurcaesian Workers – for a long period, it had heavily relied only on Dionae. Deep-space mining operations to underwater construction projects, Dionae were abundant and commonly seen contributing to the Federation’s advancing industrial foundation – their regenerative abilities and resilience make them ideal for tasks that would be too hazardous for Skrell. Though not afforded additional genetic material appointments like those grown for other purposes, they are allowed additional genetic material at their allocated materials so as to ensure they are efficient and capable of safely using such equipment. They are equipped to handle the most demanding and dangerous jobs, ensuring the continuous growth and maintenance of the Federation’s infrastructure.

A budding population of Dionae have even been selected for administrative and diplomatic roles, in which the species' ability to very quickly, and efficiently, integrate with non-Dionae has become advantageous. Acting as leaders, envoys and even mediators on behalf of the Federation, these Dionae are nurtured with additional genetic material appointments so as to allow them to absorb the subtleties of inter-species relations and diplomacy, but also the ability to effectively administrate. The ability to perceive and understand multiple perspectives simultaneously makes them invaluable, particularly in these roles. Dionae have become a more common-sighted species to represent the Federation as time marches on, maintaining its influence and fostering peaceful relations with its own populace and other States.

Rumours do circulate that a very small population of Dionae is kept hidden, and unknown to the greater Federation, so as to conduct intelligence and surveillance missions. Some claim that these Dionae are conditioned to have unwavering loyalty to the Federation, and to ensure that subversive elements are easily discovered and thwarted. The Federation has repeatedly issued denials of such rumours, stating that the Ruipkala accepts and even maintains a sizeable quantity of Dionae – there is no reason, nor desire, for the Federation to engage in such activities. Those who believe in the conspiracy theory often coin these Dionae as “Tupshrooms”.

Dionae in the Government

Dionae acting as officials within the Nralakk Federation must meet certain requirements. They must have a social credit score exceeding 7.58 and must be at least one hundred and eighty years of age – each Nymph that is. A Nymph that is not at least the prescribed minimum age can result in the Dionae being disqualified from being within the government. These requirementsextends to Consulars as well. Splitting and merging is completely forbidden. Dionae in any government role are not allowed to split or merge unless dire circumstances force such occurrence. Typically, Dionae will be assigned a senior official to oversee their roles – particularly in regard to acting as Consulars. Dionae Consulars for the Nralakk Federation are assigned a Skrellian Senior Diplomat who oversees their conduct.

Living in the Federation

Living in the Nralakk Federation as a Dionae is an experience marked by structure, purpose, and unwavering loyalty. Unlike other species within the Federation, Dionae exist not just as individuals but as necessary components of the machine, each with specific roles and responsibilities. From the moment they are cultivated, Dionae are embedded in a highly structured environment. They are nurtured in controlled facilities where their growth and development are monitored. The Spiral Gardens are often where Dionae will live and work, these specialized communities often house a certain population of Dionae – tailored to their roles in the Federation. Designed with an emphasis to promote collaboration and mutual support, the Spiral Gardens have become more than mere homes, but communal centres. Daily life for Dionae within the Federation is characterized by routine and discipline. Their schedules are often dictated by the desires of the Federation – though significant leeway is provided, allowing them personal freedoms to enjoy the luxuries of the Federation – it is necessary to balance work, education and communal activities hosted within the Spiral Gardens. The Federation may provide for their basic needs, ensuring that each has access to the resources required to not only survive, but thrive, but also to perform their duties effectively.

The Spiral Gardens

The Spiral Gardens of the Nralakk Federation

The Spiral Gardens can be found across the Nralakk Federation and is nearly on every planet colonised by the State. They are a breathtaking testament to the Federation’s ongoing efforts to harmonise nature and technology. Expansive, and intricately designed, they serve as both homes and communal centres for Dionae – a sanctuary in which they can thrive, connect, and contribute to the Federation’s collective well-being. Aptly named for their unique architectural design, characterized by ascending, spiral-shaped terraces that rise towards the sky, each terrace often acts as a garden on their own. Each is connected by gently sloping pathways and translucent bridges, allowing for easy movement through the gardens. At night, the Spirals Gardens are illuminated by bioluminescent plants – alongside normal lights – so as to ensure the safety of Dionae. It is designed to maximize exposure to natural sunlight during the day, with reflective surfaces and strategically placed light channels ensuring that every corner is bathed in light. The Spiral Gardens are the epicentre of Dionae communal life.

Not only do they gather to rest, but also to engage in social activities. Large, open spaces within the Gardens serve as communal gathering areas, with a mixture of spontaneous and organised events by the Spiral Garden Borough Councillor. Considered a rather vocal species, their songs – complex harmonies that convey emotions, stories and knowledge – are a fundamental aspect of their identity. The Gardens are designed to enhance this vocalization, with natural acoustics and resonant materials that amplify their songs. The Gardens act as a vast, living instrument, amplifying the voices of the Dionae, but also ensuring their social needs are met. The Spiral Gardens are also outfitted with Nurseries. These are large areas dedicated to the reproduction of Dionae and often have a Council of Dionae Integration and Adoption facility attached. Hundreds of Nymphs are grown in these areas, specifically tailored to ensure that those newly disgorged will be given every opportunity to survive and contribute to the greater Nralakk Federation.

Relationships in the Federation

Dionae, being unique among sophont species, do not have a biological desire to reproduce, which results in their lack of traditional forms of romance and attraction. Instead, their form of romance is distinctly alien and is mostly observed with Skrell citizens. Dionae romance involves a gestalt consciousness developing an emotional dependency on a person over decades. This relationship requires unanimous feelings among all Nymphs in the gestalt. It is a challenging development, requiring significant effort and dedication due to the long-term emotional bonds that form. A Dionae relationship often includes the unique aspect of experiencing the world through the significant other’s genetic material – it is not uncommon for Dionae to absorb the body of their significant other, gaining all their memories and experiences. This process is highly regulated, and the significant other must have lodged the requirement paperwork with the Nralakk Federation prior to their death for it to occur. Those that do perform this process generally have a profound grief for a prolonged period of time, in which they mourn deeply. Dionae that absorb their significant other typically will carry on their partner’s legacy, adopting a name that reflects their mourning and pursuing activities that their partner enjoyed. Most gestalts in relationships are of Singular Sound, involving a shared abstract consciousness that does not require winning over multiple minds. However, post-death merging with a partner creates a unique mind type known as Mourning Mass. Mourning Mass is the only known way this unique mind type can occur.

Societal Limitations

The Federation keeps a strict tab on Dionae, as stated already, but particularly on their size and mindtypes. The Federation has sought to ensure that Dionae may not exceed an Argus-sized form, and that they develop a mindtype of the “correct” nature, where if one is of the “incorrect” nature Nymphs will be required to split, and seek new partners to form a gestalt.

Correct Mindtypes

• Singular Sound

• Competence Choir

• Tyrannical Tune

• Harmonius Hymn

• Seasoned Song

• Bloodless Band

• Emphatic Echo

• Scholary Song

• Mourning Mass

Incorrect Mindtypes

• Tumultuous Tacet

• Chaotic Charcophony

• Voided Vocals

• Scarlet Score

• Nocturne Notes

Conglomerated Choir of Nralakk

The Conglomerated Choir of Nralakk represents a unique mixture of Voidic Proto-Culture and terrestrial Dionae. It has created a multi-faceted community within the Nralakk Federation, where the traditions and behaviour from before they were integrated intertwine with the modern influences of terrestrial life. Those from the Conglomerated Choir, at least originally, view themselves as emergent concepts or ideas constituted from their base parts. However, exposure to the other species' notions of personhood has introduced a new layer of self-perfection, creating a hybrid understanding that allows for more nuanced interactions with non-Dionae. While they treat others as amalgams of beliefs and ideas, they are more open to understanding and incorporating the concepts of ego and individuality. They are known for their raw, sincere and unfiltered communication – this is balanced by the Federation’s emphasis on diplomacy and cooperation, creating a unique communication style that presents as both candid and respectful. Many still continue to use Rootsong, as it remains a crucial component of their culture, but most if not all Dionae have adopted Nral’malic as it was required for their integration, but it has been noted that the voidic tendencies do sometimes make their way into Nral’malic communication. The Conglomerated Choir’s sense of time and perspective is deeply influenced by their Voidic roots. Their natural lifespan gives them a long-term view that surpasses even the Skrell. This perspective has created a mix of curiosity, empathy and even desire to make relationships with non-Dionae. The Federation’s emphasis on communal collaboration has encouraged this perspective, and despite the Voidic’s tendencies to look down on “temporals” majority of the Dionae from the Conglomerated Choir has become eager to learn and cooperate within the Federation. The integration of both voidic and terrestrial traits has created a unique culture within the Federation, one that is adaptable, having embraced the new ideas and values of the Federation while maintaining their unique identity and traditions from their roots.

Following the discovery of the Conglomerated Choir and the Nralakk Federation went through intense diplomatic negotiations, discussing options for the Dionae if it wished to stay within Federation territory until a consensus was finally reached. The Federation was still rebuilding after Glorsh-Omega’s disappearance and required assistance, combined with the Dionae’s ability to survive in some of the most extreme conditions, the Choir was quick to offer its services to the Skrell in rebuilding their society. While at first, many Skrell believed the Diona to be untrustworthy, still reeling from Glorsh-Omega’s betrayal of their species, the cluster proved to be a key player in the rebuilding of the Federation. After twenty-three years of assistance, the burgeoning Federation announced the species’ full integration into Nralakk society in 2240 CE, which was ratified in 2245 CE along with the official establishment of the Second Nralakk Federation. The two species have formed an inseparable bond from this experience, with the Dionae respecting the Skrell for the kindness they have shown to the species, and the Skrell being humbled by the efforts of the Dionae in helping to rebuild a nation they had no obligation to aid. Today, members of the Conglomerated Choir are treated well by the Federation as a reward for their service in the past, with those who had an active role at the time having reached idol status in some cases. Their treatment by the Federation, along with their first-hand experience witnessing the destruction Glorsh-Omega brought upon the Skrell, has contributed to the members of the Choir being staunchly anti-synthetic, believing that Glorsh-Omega is proof that the proliferation of artificial intelligence is ultimately dangerous, and the use of unshackled positronics by humanity is a grievous mistake.