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  • 📅 January 2025 is YE 47.1 in the RP.

RP [Open] 1st Annual Kikyo Science and Trade Expo

demibear

demibear

🌟 Site Supporter
🎖️ Game Master
🎨 Media Gallery
Retired Staff
RP Date
YE 46.9
RP Location
Jiyuu, Kumo no Kagayaki Station
Kumo no Kagayaki Station
Jiyuu System, YE 46.9

A halo of light enveloped the massive Kumo no Kagayaki Station as Saskia Redd's Hato Class Courier Vessel positioned itself and the station just right. She was a busy woman working for the Ryu Shipping Lane's Fujiko Express Service. Some fancy FDC official forgets their bathing suit to enjoy some after business meeting shenanigans with the local nekos. Or someone needs a message delivered physically because they don't trust SYNC. Whatever it might be, she makes sure it gets to their destination within several hours or less within the Yamatai Star Empire. Destinations outside of the YSE are much more expensive. Today she had some package for a Sun Horatio. She hadn't the slightest idea who that was or what was in the package and she didn't really care to know. She just had one job, to deliver.

While she was waiting in queue, she couldn't help but not gaze in wonder at the station’s elegant, cloudlike structure almost like it was shimmering against the void of space. Streams of shuttlecraft darted back and forth to the station’s numerous docking ports. Beyond the panoramic viewports, bustling activity made it clear: something might be going on. When she finally got clearance for a docking bay to land in, she arrived at the fast and safest pace she could.

Once within the station, her craft secured from would be thieves (can never be too safe), and the station map downloaded into her digital mind implant; she made way towards the nearest internal tram station. She looked at the address once more: Suite G4319-34-223. Judging by her map, that took her to the Stellarastra Luxe Celestial Hotel. In order to reach it from the nearest tram station without going completely around the station was a cargo holding area with passageways running along it she could use. But instead of the shipping containers she was used to in such locations, she was greeted with a grand scene.

The Fuji Corporation had rented out a central Cargo Hold to serve as the main venue of the event with numerous satellite venues in the closest retail concourse. Towering glass walls bathed the space in artificial starlight, casting subtle reflections on polished temporary floors of Yamataian marble. Holographic banners in vibrant hues hovered above the crowd, each displaying the event’s insignia alongside welcome messages in dozens of languages:

"Welcome to the 1st Annual Kikyo Science and Trade Expo – A Celebration of Innovation, Collaboration, and Progress!"

The location was a living tapestry of diversity. Koerlander artisans from Ukmirt in flowing traditional garb stood alongside corporate representatives in sleek, tailored suits. Iris Seriess Service Dolls in maid uniforms moved seamlessly through the crowd, offering assistance to attendees.

To one side of the hold, the Exhibition Hall stretched into the distance, a labyrinthine collection of pavilions and booths, each meticulously designed to showcase the very best of its occupant’s offerings. Holograms pulsed with dynamic demonstrations of cutting-edge technology, from dazzling new starship systems to innovative consumer goods. Scientists offered live demonstrations of pioneering techniques, while artisans proudly displayed their craftsmanship, from intricate jewelry to durable yet elegant survival gear. To the front, the Central Stage loomed, a sleek platform with lights and holographic displays ready to host keynote speeches, panel discussions, and live demonstrations.

Meanwhile, the station's luxurious amenities ensured a constant flow of activity. High-end restaurants catered to the galaxy’s most discerning palates, while quieter lounges offered reprieve from the energetic crowds. In the Networking Pavilion, business people exchanged data and deals over drinks, with projections of planetary systems and market charts lighting the walls around them.

But none of that mattered to Saskia Redd. Clad in her sleek red-and-blue bodysuit, she cut through the crowd like a focused arrow, the package secured under her arm. Whatever grand celebration of progress and innovation this was, she wasn’t here for it.

She was here to deliver.
 
Pavilion C12, Exhibition Hall

Under the cool glow of display lights, Ryoji Tanaka stood confidently before three sleek life-sized model of Nepleslian Research and Manfacturing's new Last Hope Series of escape pods of various sizes. Each possessed a streamlined, asymmetrical hexagon shape gleamed under the spotlight, with faint emergency markings reflecting a practical yet elegant design ethos. The bustling crowd, drawn by the pod’s rather unique Nepleslian Red vanguardist aesthetics that were spreading since the Ryu Keiretsu entered the Fujiko Region. A Senior Product Engineer at NRM, Ryoji watched the crowds ready to answer any questions the marketing Olivia could not.

Simplified volumetric schematics rotated slowly in front of each pod. “The Last Hope Series Escape Pods are designed to ensure survivability even in the harshest conditions of space and hostile planetary environments. With a lifespan of twenty years, modular layouts, and a range of specialized models—Type A, Type B, and Type C—these pods adapt to the diverse needs of evacuation scenarios.” said a feminine synthetic voice over wireless telepathy when the console identified an approaching woman as a NH-33A neko.

"The series is currently divided into three types, each with impressive capabilities." It continued before showing a video and text to her.
  • Type A, optimized for high-capacity evacuation with provisions for 18 individuals for five weeks.
  • Type B, a balanced model for general-purpose use, supporting 14 individuals.
  • Type C, compact and stealth-focused, ideal for covert or small-scale missions.
The wireless experience then continued into a virtual immersion as a type A's interior came to life, displaying the safety seating, integrated storage compartments, and dim lighting tailored for occupant comfort. “Beyond survival,” it continued, “we’ve prioritized dignity and comfort. Advanced climate control, on-board biosynth protein bioreactors, and UV sterilization systems make prolonged stays as bearable as possible.”

It concluded by showcasing the pod’s standout feature: the CRUX Docking System, which allows pods to connect, share resources, and operate as a coordinated survival network. “With the Last Hope, survival is not a gamble—it’s a guarantee.”
 
Motoyoshi Sayuri found herself immersed in the hum of activity at the trade show, an environment she hadn’t navigated in quite some time. Her involvement with the Yugumo Corporation had taken a backseat in recent years, but when Arisu reached out with news that the company lacked representation at the event, Sayuri didn’t hesitate to volunteer. Most of the Corporation's upper management had went to the Sharie System to assist with "The Wolf."

The Corporation’s exhibit, though not as groundbreaking as initially hoped, was still impressive. Design delays on the Misha and Yūgure 2A models meant no prototypes were available to showcase. Instead, Yugumo pivoted to highlighting their tried-and-true products: gleaming Hoshi III Series Multi-stage Turbo Plasma Drives, presented in both their civilian and Star Army configurations; sleek KAIMON Companion Drones, whose compact design belied their versatility; and the latest Orchidgear and Starshield technologies, both of which had been well-received since their debut the year prior.

Sayuri moved through the bustling exhibition hall with a calm yet observant demeanor, her eyes scanning for points of interest. She paused in front of a booth showcasing the Last Hope line of escape pods. The detailed presentation drew her in, prompting her to linger and listen.

Her mind, always inclined to analyze, considered the implications of the escape pod's features ~ how they might align with Yugumo’s own innovations or fill gaps in existing systems. Though this wasn’t her usual arena, Sayuri’s sharp instincts and natural curiosity quickly drew her into the flow of the trade show. Even here, among the noise and displays, she saw potential for Yugumo to expand its reach and refine its edge.
 
Pavilion C12, Exhibition Hall
Within Pavilion C12, Exhibition Hall—the bustling venue for the International Industrial and Military Expo on Pisces Station—a steady hum of activity filled the air as exhibitors and visitors alike prepared for the event's opening day. Among the crowd, the brother-sister duo of the Solvyn family stood out, maneuvering a large hovering platform laden with Mining Guild technology. The siblings, Pax and Kael, worked in unison, the platform gliding smoothly between booths showcasing cutting-edge industrial and military innovations.

Walking beside them was Beta Zero, the synthetic undercover identity of Astrid Kurosaki. Her stoic demeanor contrasted with Pax’s lively personality, which shone even as she grumbled with a touch of humor. “The others from the Guild Frontier Team have already made it to our booth and left us to lug all this tech. Meanwhile, Rocko gets to snooze in his emitter!” Pax quipped, rolling her eyes as her arms guided the platform.

Kael let out a lighthearted chuckle. “Rocko knows how to pick his battles,” he replied, adjusting his grip on the edge of the platform. “But hey, it’s part of the fun, right?”
Beta Zero’s voice chimed in, calm but directive. “Don’t worry, Pax. Remember, our mascot will be walking alongside you soon enough. You're the face of this operation—our attention seeker. Take this as an opportunity to explore the expo, check out other booths, and, most importantly, guide visitors to the Mining Guild’s exhibit. Rocko will make sure you draw a crowd.”

Pax sighed but couldn’t suppress a small grin. “Fine, but he better do more than just look cute this time,” she muttered, already planning her route to scout the hall and mingle with potential visitors.

The trio finally arrived at the Mining Guild's booth, a spacious and well-designed space featuring banners and interactive displays meant to draw in curious onlookers. The large hovering platform came to a stop, and the team immediately got to work unloading the advanced equipment. Among the first pieces to be set up was the Helix Dynamo Core, an imposing device with sleek, polished surfaces and glowing conduits that pulsed faintly with energy.

Kael stood back for a moment, observing as the others positioned the core on a raised platform designed to highlight its advanced engineering. He turned to Beta Zero, his brow furrowed in curiosity. “So, that thing's the Helix Dynamo Core, right? It’s our primary power tech? The one that uses plasma and ions to generate energy?”
Beta Zero, ever patient and composed, nodded. “Correct. The Helix Dynamo Core is one of our flagship technologies. It’s designed to provide a stable and efficient power source, even in extreme environments. It uses a dual-stage process to ionize plasma and channel it through an electromagnetic field, ensuring minimal energy loss and maximum output. It’s a cornerstone of the Mining Guild’s operations.”

Kael whistled, clearly impressed. “Makes sense why it’s the centerpiece of our booth. That’s some cutting-edge stuff.”
As the team continued setting up, Pax turned her attention to a smaller device she had been carrying—a sleek emitter that housed Rocko, the Mining Guild’s holographic mascot. She grinned mischievously as she pressed a button on the device. The emitter floated upward, its surface glowing faintly before projecting a bright, animated image of Rocko.

The hologram sprang to life, taking the form of a cheerful and slightly exaggerated prospector, complete with a wide-brimmed hat, a pickaxe slung over one shoulder, and an eager grin. Rocko’s voice, upbeat and inviting, echoed through the booth. “Howdy, folks! Welcome to the Mining Guild! Let me show ya the future of frontier technology!”
Pax laughed, stepping back to admire the display. “There we go. That oughta grab some attention.”

Beta Zero glanced at the holographic figure, her synthetic mind already running calculations on its effectiveness in drawing visitors. “He’s certainly engaging. Pax, remember to use Rocko as a conversation starter. His design is meant to represent our approachable, frontier spirit. You’ll need to channel that energy.”

Pax mock-saluted with a grin. “Yes, ma’am! I’ll make sure everyone knows where to find the coolest booth at the expo.”

Kael shook his head with a chuckle. “Let’s hope Rocko doesn’t steal all the spotlight. We’re the ones doing the heavy lifting here.”

As the booth came alive with activity, Pax adjusted her gear and gave a mock salute to her brother and Beta Zero. “Alright, Rocko and I are off to work our magic. Don’t miss us too much while we’re out being the life of this expo,” she teased with a grin.

Rocko’s holographic projection beamed beside her, the cheerful prospector tipping his hat. “Let’s round up some curious minds and guide ’em back here!”
Beta Zero watched them go, her synthetic gaze unblinking as her mind calculated probabilities and potential risks. She turned toward a figure standing silently near the edge of the booth—a sleek, angular robot from the Mining Guild’s Defender Series, designated Edge 41. Its matte black plating and compact frame made it an ideal candidate for stealth operations.

“Edge 41,” Beta Zero began, her voice even but commanding, “your assignment is to follow Pax and Rocko. Engage stealth mode and remain unseen. Your primary objective is their safety. Secondary objective: keep them out of trouble.”

The robot’s sensors flickered briefly, acknowledging the command. Without a sound, its form shimmered faintly as it activated its stealth systems, blending seamlessly into the background. The subtle hum of its processors faded as it moved to trail Pax and Rocko, maintaining a safe but discreet distance.

Beta Zero turned back to Kael and the rest of the team, her expression neutral. “With Edge 41 in place, they’ll be secure. Now, let’s ensure our booth remains the highlight of this expo.”

Kael smirked. “Pax? Out of trouble? That’s asking a lot, even with a stealth bot watching her.”

Beta Zero’s lips twitched in the faintest hint of a smile. “Which is why Edge 41 will be there. Let’s hope we won’t need its intervention.”


Pax and Rocko with a hidden Patroler unit in tow, explored the expo, though they stopped at the Escape Pods display. Pax tilted her head, her arms crossed over her chest, ignoring the breeze on her form as she pondered the implications. “Might be worth exploring.” she said to herself.
 
As the Mining guild booth was set up, they would eventually come upon some oddly marked boxes, though anyone from the mining guild would recognize the markings, however considering how things had been stacked around them the markings hadn't been visible till just now. and one started to wriggle about before the top popped open and a nose poked out and wriggled a bit before out popped the head of a D3 that seemed to be very mole like with the nose and fine layer of fur. Blinking a bit Auger looked around and spotted Beta Zero and Kael and waved one of her clawed hands at them before crawling out of the box and scooting over to them.

Much like Rocko who she tended to share an aesthetic with Auger had on an old Prospectors outfit, she sniffed a bit and looked around not seeing her partner and she looked a bit confused before she held out an old fashioned wooden sign that read "Where Rocko?" the sign of course was much more technological then it first appeared, it was just made to look the way it was to add to the old time prospector aesthetic, it had a little key pad in the handle that Auger used to type in what was displayed on the sign.

But before the two could answer Auger caught a glimpse of Rocko Walking off she she waved to the two she was just talking with and took off after Rocko, weaving through the crowd with the sign held high with the words "Rocko wait up!" on it thankfully the sign helped clear a path since people could see it rather easily.

Meanwhile the other boxes started to wriggle and a few more D3 started to pop out, having finally woken up from their naps, they looked around and realized there was work to be done and so they hopped out and closed their boxes and saluting as they gathered near Beta Zero and Kael, a Still sleepy D4 in tow "Mm... morning... we are ready to work..." the D4 mumbled still clearly sleepy, this was in fact Blinky, the D4 that looked over the little group of D3 that had been assigned to help with the expo.



Auger managed to regroup with Pax and Rocko falling into step beside them and waving to them while the sign she held read "Hello sorry for sleeping in!". the D3 had been busy packing everything up for the expo and had thought they would wake up before to help more with the unpacking and setting up but clearly they had all over slept.
 
Aekara Tenui was hustling to get the last bits of Lo'ken Institute's set up perfect. This was their first time at the trade show and she wanted to make a good impression. At the very least she hoped for things to not be an utter failure. Despite all this she was still very calm and excited about the adventure of it all. They had a special licensing deal with the United Norian Imperium that had come through just in time to get some last minute developments made.

These last minute developments were a project that Aekara was very passionate about. They had just enough time to make a couple of prototypes for the trade show. Norian blood is very acidic, it would eat through most things that it comes into contact with. However, if Norians are in need of surgery or another form of medical care that involved their blood coming into contact with something there was little to no options available in Yamatai. That is, until now.

Thanks to U.N.I's license allowing Lo'ken to make L'ulorsha Weave in addition to a cost drop in niranium a series of medical applications were developed. A medical drape in various sized made out of L'ulorsha weave. Its purpose would be to prevent norian blood from eating away at surfaces it came into contact with. If it were placed over a surgical table, a treatment bed or any surface the unique qualities of the fabric would prevent damage to any surface underneath. In addition to this initial development there were others involving the L'ulorsha's medical applications, but those were not quite ready to bring to this event. Niranium suture needles and scalpels had become less cost prohibitive with the change in trade policy, which had made it easier for Lo'ken to produce them. Nthaulo hospital had partnered with Lo'ken for the project sending one of their representatives to assist with demonstration
 
Pavilion C12, Exhibition Hall

The hum of the bustling crowd and the distant chatter of eager presenters filled the sprawling exhibition space. Hiroshiko moved with a measured, purposeful stride—habitual from years in the Star Army—though there was an undeniable air of casual curiosity in her violet eyes. She had attended the expo more as a distraction than anything else; she was still waiting for confirmation of her transition to the Rikugun as a combat engineer. From the very first time one helped her shut down the aether reactor of the doomed YSS Dawn Hammer, she knew she was meant to be a ground pounder.

Her gaze wandered over holo-displays, product demonstrations, and innovative prototypes—cutting-edge developments that even a seasoned technician like herself couldn’t help but admire. She paused near a particularly lively pavilion for the Athena Foundation, showcasing a number of scientific breakthroughs and products they were publicly disclosing.

A volumetric display caught her eye, a fascinating visualization of a textile made of adaptive nanoweave deforming under pressure and instantaneously reforming. Hiroshiko narrowed her gaze slightly, muttering to herself:
“Interesting. Adaptive lattice reconfiguration... nanofibers integrated with a means to actuate it. I wonder what stress tolerances it has been tested up to...”

Her analytical thoughts evaporated the moment she spotted another presentation: Prometheus Type Clone Body. The volumetric graphic displayed the eerie simplicity of a "spare" body—androgynous, and unmistakably engineered. Hiroshiko’s attention snapped to the information scrolling beside it:

“20-minute finalization… osteoplastic bones… single 'super' X chromosome…”

She stiffened. It wasn’t a secret that the Nepleslian Reds’ clone production lagged far behind other factions like the Yamataians with their Hemosynthetic Reconstruction Tubes. But it looked like they were starting to address that issue from the looks it.

“Twenty minutes?” Hiroshiko muttered, the skepticism evident in her tone.

“Fast, isn’t it?”

Hiroshiko turned her head to see a bespectacled representative of the Athena Foundation, a small blonde woman with a clipboard who had been lingering nearby. Her polite smile barely hid the confidence behind it.

“Twenty minutes to finalize a fully customized clone and ready for deployment. All thanks to our breakthroughs with AquaGenesis Fluid and nanite-guided neural formation,” the representative explained.

Hiroshiko hadn't the slightly clue what the woman was even talking about beyond the word neural. She was a starship technician, not a medic or a science officer. She just merely smiled and merely waved her hand to signal she wasn't a buyer.

"Well if there is anything you wish to know about the Prometheus Type or anything else about the Athena Foundation, just let me know." the woman said, clearly seeing that Hiroshiko did not wish to engage in further conversation. Once she was gone, Hiroshiko breathed a sigh of relief that she didn't have to embarrass herself trying to sound intelligent in subjects she had only passing knowledge of.

She decided to return to the flow of the crowd to see what else the Expo had to offer. She briefly looked at the food stall Skadi Nutrition Systems had set up to showcase their Biosynth Protein products, but she made a hard pass when she saw what could only be described as gunhund chow.

"How could the Reds tolerate that crap?" she said to herself as she continued walking past it. Looking to the right, she thought she saw a kid walking around with a wooden sign. But when she did a double take, the individual was already gone. Must have been the wind playing tricks on the eyes again.

She finally arrived at Nepleslian Research and Manufacturing's (NRM) portion of the exhibition hall. The NRM pavilion was bustling with curious onlookers, most of them eyeing the various prototypes and scaled mock-ups on display. The Last Hope Series Escape Pods easily stole Hiroshiko's attention. Their sleek, utilitarian designs exuded the kind of rugged practicality that appealed to the Nepleslian spirit she first learned during her time in the Imperium.

"Heh, I wonder where they got the idea for these from?" Hiroshiko muttered as she approached, mocking at its similarity with the scapegoat escape pod if you vastly simplify the design and add a heatshield on the top.

She caught the same recorded presentation while overhearing something about “smaller profiles for stealthy deployment” and “automated life support redundancies.” But Hiroshiko’s attention drifted from the marketing jargon to the pods themselves. Her technician’s eye immediately began assessing the layout of the exterior panels, noting where maintenance hatches, docking clamps, and ejection vents were placed.

"Two-man capacity… modular survival kits…" she murmured, wishing she could run a hand along the outer shell of the Type A pod.

“Impressed?”

Hiroshiko turned to see a tall man in a well-pressed onyx suit approaching with an easy confidence. His name badge read Ryoji Tanaka – NRM Representative. The man’s sharp gaze bounced between Hiroshiko and the other curious attendees at his area—a young woman with pink hair and a similar air of quiet investigation, whom Hiroshiko vaguely recognized from earlier. Probably another Star Army techie or officer, Hiroshiko guessed. Then there was the pair of individuals that really drew his attention: Pax and Rocko. He couldn't tell if he was being pranked again or they were employees of another company curious to what NRM was up to. He was leaning towards the latter since he was aware the Mining Guild was at the expo. He quickly pushed his curiosity to the back of his mind as he maintained his professional demeanor.

“I was wondering when someone would really start paying attention to these beauties,” Ryoji continued, addressing everyone in front of him. He then gestured towards the volumetric escape pods like a proud father. “The Last Hope series is the result of years of hardwork to develop a survival system without mentally backing up individuals as the first option. If you wanted to do that, why even escape?”

Hiroshiko raised an eyebrow, folding her arms across her chest. “Escape pods are escape pods, especially the Scapegoat you have taken a lot of inspiration from. Why so fancy?”

Ryoji grinned as if she’d asked the perfect question. “Fair point. The scapegoat is bulky, slow, and easy for an enemy to pick off. These aren’t like those.” He pointed towards the volumetrics. “The Last Hope uses kimiurim for better heat shielding for unpowered atmospheric reentry. In order to ensure its survival long enough to enter atmosphere, the hull is treated with a layer of a stealth alloy and mass mesher EM sensor evasion. Modular interiors allow us to fit anything from med-bay capsules to cryo-suspension units, and—get this—we’ve integrated a Prometheus-compatible storage chamber.”

That last point made Hiroshiko stop. “Prometheus-compatible? You mean the spares the Athena Foundation is making?”

Ryoji’s grin widened, he briefly looked at Sayuri or the Mining Guild pair to see if any of them were going to interject before answering. “You heard right. If you’re out of backup options, the pod can deploy a Prometheus Type ‘spare.’ It’s a lot easier to hide a pod like this when you don’t have to design it around space for conscious evacuees. But we still prefer the option of maximum survival though.”

@Andrew @Charaa
 
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Dr. Naomi Hasegawa stood near the entrance of the Advancer Enterprises booth, its sleek design glowing with the soft hum of cutting-edge technology on display. The centerpiece of the booth, a towering holographic projection showcasing the potential of the mobility skin, pulsed gently as smaller stations demonstrated products like NRM licensed BioSynth Proteins and DaphNE OS in interactive, hands-on exhibits.

Her assistants were busy greeting visitors and guiding them through the various demonstrations. Naomi gave a quick glance to ensure everything was running smoothly, then turned to one of her senior aides, a young professional in a tailored suit.

“Ensure that we maintain engagement on all fronts,” she instructed, her voice crisp but not harsh. “Highlight the medical applications of Adaptive Nanoweave and TheraGel prominently; the right connections could come from any direction today. If anyone needs my input, connect them to me via holo-link.”

With that, she adjusted the cuff of her suit, the material subtly shifting to a deeper shade of blue as she prepared to step out of the booth. “I’ll be back shortly. There’s someone I need to meet. Keep things running seamlessly.”

Leaving the booth in capable hands, she moved purposefully toward the Lo'ken Institute setup, ready to engage Aekara Tenui with her characteristic blend of charm and professionalism.

She approached the Lo'ken Institute booth with a confident stride, her tailored suit subtly reflecting the ambient lighting of the trade show thanks to its Adaptive Nanoweave fabric. Spotting Aekara Tenui in the midst of her final preparations, Naomi offered a warm but professional smile, her voice measured and clear as she addressed her.

“Excuse me? I’m Dr. Naomi Hasegawa, Senior Vice President of Advancer Enterprises. I couldn’t help but notice your display—it’s rare to see someone working so passionately right up until the last moment. That energy speaks volumes about your commitment.”

She paused briefly, her sharp eyes scanning the prototypes on display. “L’ulorsha Weave, is it? Fascinating material. I would love to know more about it.”

@GingerGlitch

Naomi stepped closer, inspecting one of the medical drapes. Her tone shifted slightly, becoming more analytical but no less engaging
 
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Amidst the bustling halls of the 1st Annual Kikyo Science and Trade Expo, the Fujiko Development Corporation (FDC) made its presence unmistakable. Clad in their meticulously designed Type 46 Working Uniforms, Type 46 Pullovers, or the distinguished Type 47 Civilian Servant Uniforms, FDC representatives moved with purpose. Each individual was an embodiment of professionalism, working to establish new social contacts, gather intelligence on the latest market trends, and identify technologies or products of interest to their superiors.

Among the crowd was a striking figure—a silver-haired woman wearing the Type 46 Pullover, her uniform accentuated by its blend of crisp lines and functional design. She carried herself with quiet confidence, her dark orange-red eyes scanning the bustling pavilion with keen interest. Briefly looking at Ryu Heavy Industries digitigrade bipedal Mukumi Drone and assortment of weaponry derived from their superior SAoY enhanced counterparts used by the M19 Ryoko for the sector's mecha market, her focus turned toward the Yugumo Corporation’s exhibit, where a blend of cutting-edge technology and Yamataian elegance was on full display.

Approaching the booth, she paused briefly to observe the gleaming Hoshi III Series Multi-stage Turbo Plasma Drives and the latest Orchidgear. The FDC had been reliant on Ryu Keiretsu M-Series Fusion Plasma Drives and their own developing derivative of older Zen Armaments aether technology; but there had been a growing desire to bypass the Ryu-Mizumitsu attempts to control their development and interface directly with the major corporations of the Yamatai Star Empire without the "help" of the Ryu Keiretsu. With a polite smile, she gestured toward one of the attending Yugumo representatives.

“Good day” she began, her voice even and professional, yet tinged with curiosity.

@Andrew
 
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Standing at a large demonstration area that had been meticulously crafted into a makeshift vehicle proving ground, a pair of yeomen stood guard as a smith was showing off several Grounders-while some would say it was little more than a over-armored tractor vehicle, they'd seen the thing survive getting attacked by a Whip-Lizard and simply mulching it and sprayed by plants spewing toxic sap and spores as it chewed through the tough undergrowth. "As you can see, the vehicle features a fully armored and sealed cockpit, is able to mount individual drive systems, and can easily be reconfigured to harvest crops." He gestured to where one was was going through a field of grain that had been planted for this, "Act as a sprayer-" Water was dispersed from a sprayer over where the dirt patch had been, "Can be used for logging-" A number thick, smallish trees that had been brought in for the demonstrated were held in place, cut down, the branches removed by other personnel and fed into a wood chipper as the cleared logs were loaded. "And can even be used for digging if need be." Another demonstration, this time of it digging up a large pile of dirtt, again having been brought aboard by the yeomen.

Likely the organizers of the event wouldnt' be pleased about the mess they were making, then again they'd had to pay through the nose to get the spot-the miners in the astroid field had been working overtime so they could actually organize this.

"Pardon, while that's all well and good, why would you need a fully armored and sealed farming vehicle." The yeoman said nothing but simply gestured to a screen, and hit play-the cam, which showed a vicious lizard-like creature attempting to pry its way into the vehicle cab-the driver gunning the engine and using the combine to ram into it-it snapped and swiped at the machine, its long whip-like tail hitting like a cannon shot even as it was dragged into the blades-before being sprayed by some vile purplish ichor. The driver muttered something unintelligible before hitting a switch, activating the wiper blades and clearing the mess from the veiwports before lowering the armored panels. The recording cut off as he looked back at the group.

"I see..." The individual who'd inquired about it looked absolutely green, "Anywho, this...Grounder, it definitely sounds like it has potential." The smith nodded, before launching into an explanation of the vehicle's overall capabilities, power plant, and answering whatever questions they might have...
 
When Aekara spotted a woman approaching the Lo'ken booth she wrapped up the last preparation. "I am Aekara Tenui, Project Manager for Lo'ken Institute. Pleased to meet you." she paused briefly and spoke in a clear professional tone, offering a polite smile. "This is an application of L'ulorsha Weave intended for use in a variety of medical scenarios that involve contact with norian blood. It is a unique blend of entangled particles that create a 'quantum-linked' fabric which makes it nearly impenetrable. So far, it is the only solution for treating a norian casualty in the field or in a facility not specializing in their care. The acidic nature of norian blood eats away at nearly everything it comes into contact with. It is light, compact, and reusable after sterilization. Which makes it perfect for use in treating a patient just about anywhere. All one needs to do is lay it over the treatment surface and anything covered by the L'ulorsha Weave will be protected." she said with a controlled passionate tone.

While she had been speaking she watched as Dr. Naomi inspected the medical drapes. It was always fascinating for her to observe how others interacted with with Norians since their arrival. Aekara hoped that this would help further acceptance of their kind into other areas of this universe many now called home.
 
Edge 41, ever calculating and precise, decided that the most efficient way to fulfill its protective duty was to stay concealed within the holographic field of Rocko. Slipping in behind the small emitter, the stealth unit synchronized its movements with the floating device, maintaining perfect cover as it shadowed Pax and Rocko through the bustling expo. Its sensors remained active, scanning for potential threats or unusual activity in the surrounding crowd.

Meanwhile, Pax and Rocko wandered further from the Mining Guild booth, weaving through exhibits and displays showcasing the latest in industrial and military technology. Rocko, as ever, played his part flawlessly. His holographic form radiated cheer and energy, waving enthusiastically to anyone who glanced their way. “Howdy there! Don’t miss the Mining Guild’s booth—cutting-edge tech and frontier spirit!” he called out, tipping his virtual hat with charm.

Pax, on the other hand, was far more focused, her sharp eyes scanning the exhibits with a critical gaze. One particular display caught her attention—a sleek and modern escape pod designed for both industrial workers and hazardous environments. She approached it, her curiosity piqued as a representative from the company behind the design began an enthusiastic explanation.

Pax nodded thoughtfully, crossing her arms over her chest as she examined the pod. “Interesting,” she muttered, her mind already racing with possibilities. “The Mining Guild could definitely use pods like these. We’ve got plenty of hazardous operations where safety tech like this would come in handy.”

She glanced over at Rocko, a small grin tugging at the corner of her mouth. “Right, Rocko?” The holographic mascot tipped his hat again, leaning forward with a cheerful nod. “You betcha, partner! Safety’s as important as striking gold! Pods like these could keep our folks safe while they’re out there pushing the limits.” Edge 41, still hidden in Rocko’s holographic field, silently observed the exchange. Its programming flagged the pods as a potential recommendation for the Mining Guild’s safety protocols, storing the information for later transmission. While Pax and Rocko continued to chat with the representative, Edge 41 maintained its vigilant watch, ensuring nothing could interrupt their work—or their safety.

Pax turned back to the representative, leaning in slightly. “Out of curiosity, what’s the deployment time on these pods? And how do they handle under extreme conditions, like asteroid mining zones or volatile gas fields?” She asked Roji. As Pax and Rocko lingered near the booth, taking a moment to plan their next move, a small figure approached from the crowd. It was Auger, one of the diminutive D3 species and a fellow mascot to Rocko.

Pax glanced down at the sign, her expression flat. She let out a grunt of mild annoyance and crossed her arms. “Sleepyheads,” she muttered under her breath, her tone laced with mock exasperation. “Must be nice to snooze while the rest of us are hauling tech and doing all the hard work.”

Rocko, ever the optimist, immediately brightened at the sight of his fellow mascot. “Auger! Buddy, you made it!” he exclaimed, tipping his hat enthusiastically. His holographic form leaned forward slightly, as though trying to give the D3 a virtual pat on the back. “Don’t worry about it, pal. Better late than never, right?”
 
The D3 were scooting around the mining guilds stall handing out fliers and enticing people to come see what they had set up, true they had slept through the better part of moving and set up but they were working extra hard now to make up for it, it was helping bring people to view what they had to show at least, some even had little snacks to hand out to entice people to stay or to talk about the stall to others.

Meanwhile back with Auger she looked up at Pax and her large friendly eyes met Pax's and she blinked a bit as their words before typing on the little panel on the sign to reply the sign changing to ready "Me and the others fell asleep because we hadn't slept the last three days making sure everything was packed and ready for transport for the Expo, I apologize, had I know we would be so needed I would have informed the others we needed to stay up a fourth day to make sure we could be available to help. I hope we haven't caused problems" she looked up at her hopeful her apology was accepted.

Though Rocko then spoke up and she looked over at him her nose wriggling he was always very kind to her and the other D3 and she nodded rapidly to him quickly typing out so the sign read "Yes sir! sorry for being late though, I hope I haven't missed anything!" at this point the Small mole like D3 was starting to attract a bit more attention for the sheer fact that they were quite the little oddity. Granted her matching style to Rocko likely added to that with the man himself standing there, the already stand out Rocko standing out even more with his Fellow Mascot finally with him
 
Station Interior

Exiting the expo, Saskia Redd navigated the maze-like station with the practiced efficiency of someone who had done this countless times. The grandiose sights and vibrant displays of the expo remained little more than a blur in her memory. She had one job—to deliver her package—and she wasn’t about to get distracted.

Her digital mind implant guided her through the most direct route to the Stellarastra Luxe Celestial Hotel. After exiting the tram, she found herself at the entrance of the hotel—a marvel of Yamataian luxury, shimmering with opulence. As she approached the gilded doors opened to reveal a lobby that seemed to float between the cosmos and reality. Among the finely dressed businesspeople and executives, Saskia's utilitarian red-and-blue bodysuit marked her as distinctly out of place as as part of the "help".

As she scanned for the reception desk, she sniffed the air. It has a subtled perfumed, calming fragrance, that she could not help but like. But her focus was keeping her from taking to much of the scent. She would analyze that another time. Her eyes finally locked on to her target and she began strolling towards it.

The reception desk, carved from sleek Yamataian marble was staffed by immaculately groomed Nekovalkyrja attendants whose tailored uniforms mirrored the hotel’s aesthetic. Behind them, holographic koi fish swam lazily through the air, adding a touch of whimsy to the serene atmosphere.

She approached the marble reception desk with her usual no-nonsense demeanor. “I have a package for Sun Horatio,” she stated, holding up the sealed black container.

“Greetings. How can I assist you?” One of the Nekovalkyrja receptionists said to her, resisting an urge to raise an eyebrow at the most likely lost woman.

“I have a package for Sun Horatio,” Saskia said, producing the slim black container from under her arm. She held it up briefly, allowing the receptionist to see its authenticity seal.

The Nekovalkyrja’s smile didn’t waver, but her golden eyes flicked to a small screen on the desk. “Of course, Ms. Redd. One moment.” After a few keystrokes, the receptionist looked up. “Mr. Horatio is currently attending a private gathering on the Stellar Ballroom Deck. I can arrange for you to deliver the package personally, or would you prefer I handle it?”

“I deliver my packages,” Saskia replied curtly.

With a polite nod, the receptionist summoned a security specialist who escorted Saskia to a private lift. The ride to the ballroom was brief but luxurious, the lift’s walls lined with holographic scenes of serene landscapes. Saskia resisted the urge to roll her eyes, though she had to admit the experience was pleasant.

When the doors opened, she stepped into a space that could only be described as extravagant. The ballroom was filled with glittering lights, elegant attendees, and soft music that seemed to radiate from everywhere and nowhere all at once. Streams of holographic koi fish swam lazily through the air, adding an ethereal quality to the atmosphere.

Spotting her target—a tall, dark-haired man in a crimson formal uniform, Saskia made her way through the crowd with ease, her unyielding focus parting the sea of partygoers. When she reached him, she held out the package.

“Sun Horatio?”

The man turned, his piercing eyes locking onto hers. His sharp features and poised demeanor exuded an air of command, but there was an undercurrent of warmth to his presence. A faint smile curved his lips as he took the package.

“Thank you, Ms. Redd,” he said, his voice calm yet firm. “I’ve been expecting this.”

She gave a curt nod, ready to leave, but Horatio’s voice stopped her.

“One moment, if you don’t mind.”

Saskia turned back, raising an eyebrow.

“I’ve read your track record,” he continued, his tone thoughtful. “Efficient, reliable, and discreet. Those are qualities I value and wasted at Fujiko Express Service. If you’re interested, I could use someone of your skill set for future assignments.”

“I’m not looking for work,” Saskia replied flatly. “But you can submit requests through the proper channels.”

Horatio chuckled softly. “Of course. I respect a professional’s boundaries. Enjoy the rest of your day, Ms. Redd. But remember my offer.”

“I’m not here for the day,” she said simply, turning and walking away, her mission complete. Sun Horatio quickly opened the package to reveal a neural data stick. Handing the package to his assistant to dispose of, he inserted it into a chip socket in the side of his head. Downloading the contents of the data stick into his mind, he pulled up the data he had been waiting for.

He had heard rumors from his contacts int he Ryu-Mizumtsu Clan that they were considering adopting someone to be a more legitimate heir to Ryu-Mizumitsu Yuki than the Lily Type clones she had created. But he was not privy to who until now. "Mikael Harris... interesting." he spoke under his breath, smirking a bit before resuming his previous activity of schmoozing with the Jiyuuian elites.

Docking Bay

Back on her Hato Class Courier Vessel, Saskia powered up the engines, the station’s dazzling lights fading as she set her course for the next destination. Another package, another job, another journey through the endless expanse of space.

As the courier vessel slipped into the void, Saskia leaned back in her seat, allowing herself a rare moment of satisfaction. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was hers—a life of purpose, freedom, and simplicity in a galaxy of noise and chaos.

And for Saskia Redd, that was enough. Though if an executive was tracking her career...
 
Pavilion C12, Exhibition Hall
NRM

Ryoji Tanaka’s sharp gaze settled on Pax, his confident demeanor unfazed by the question. He gestured toward the sleek volumetric display of the Last Hope Series Escape Pod, its holographic schematics rotating slowly to emphasize the intricate design.

“Excellent question,” he began, his voice smooth yet brimming with pride. “The deployment speed of the Last Hope Escape Pod is one of its standout features. From the moment the launch command is initiated and its protective armor layer is ejected, the pod can disengage, eject, and achieve full operational readiness in under 15 seconds. That includes power-up, life support activation, and priming of its electronic warfare protection suite.”

He turned slightly, his hand emphasizing the diagram highlighting the pod’s emergency systems. “This speed is achieved through well protected and self-powered magnetic accelerators on the sides of the pod's enclosure. Should they become damaged in the emergency show how, the pod is capable of quickly accelerating with its own fusion engines. Though this will naturally cause damage to the host ship if it is meant to be salvaged and repaired.”

Pausing to let the information sink in, Ryoji leaned in slightly, lowering his tone to convey a sense of gravitas. “As for extreme conditions—asteroid mining zones, volatile gas fields, high-radiation environments—you’ll find the Last Hope excels. The hull is layered with a combination of osmiridum plating on the sides and kimiurim at the top of the pod. Both offer superior protection against micro-impact. For radiation protection, a coating of Neo-Mercurite nanolaminate is present to address the most common forms of radiation out there.”

He straightened, his polished smile returning. “In short, the Last Hope isn’t just fast; it’s fast and dependable. We built it with the understanding that in emergencies, every second matters—and survival isn’t optional.”

Ryoji glanced at Pax and Rocko, his eyes glimmering with anticipation. “I take it you’re considering how this might fit into Mining Guild operations? If so, I’d be happy to discuss custom configurations tailored to your specific needs.”
 
demibear said:
Amidst the bustling halls of the 1st Annual Kikyo Science and Trade Expo, the Fujiko Development Corporation (FDC) made its presence unmistakable. Clad in their meticulously designed Type 46 Working Uniforms, Type 46 Pullovers, or the distinguished Type 47 Civilian Servant Uniforms, FDC representatives moved with purpose. Each individual was an embodiment of professionalism, working to establish new social contacts, gather intelligence on the latest market trends, and identify technologies or products of interest to their superiors.

Among the crowd was a striking figure—a silver-haired woman wearing the Type 46 Pullover, her uniform accentuated by its blend of crisp lines and functional design. She carried herself with quiet confidence, her dark orange-red eyes scanning the bustling pavilion with keen interest. Briefly looking at Ryu Heavy Industries digitigrade bipedal Mukumi Drone and assortment of weaponry derived from their superior SAoY enhanced counterparts used by the M19 Ryoko for the sector's mecha market, her focus turned toward the Yugumo Corporation’s exhibit, where a blend of cutting-edge technology and Yamataian elegance was on full display.

Approaching the booth, she paused briefly to observe the gleaming Hoshi III Series Multi-stage Turbo Plasma Drives and the latest Orchidgear. The FDC had been reliant on Ryu Keiretsu M-Series Fusion Plasma Drives and their own developing derivative of older Zen Armaments aether technology; but there had been a growing desire to bypass the Ryu-Mizumitsu attempts to control their development and interface directly with the major corporations of the Yamatai Star Empire without the "help" of the Ryu Keiretsu. With a polite smile, she gestured toward one of the attending Yugumo representatives.

“Good day” she began, her voice even and professional, yet tinged with curiosity.

@Andrew
Click to expand...


Sayuri turned from the display of KAIMON Companion Drones just as the silver-haired woman approached. The woman’s presence was striking, her dark orange-red eyes sharp and calculating as they lingered on the technological offerings before them. Sayuri, clad in her own Yugumo Corporation uniform, stepped forward with an air of practiced composure, her expression warm yet measured. Sayuri inclined her head slightly in acknowledgment, the faint hum of the trade show fading into the background as her focus shifted entirely to the new arrival. “Welcome to the Yugumo Corporation’s exhibit,” she replied, her voice calm and welcoming, though tinged with an edge of curiosity. “I hope you’re finding the Expo worthwhile.”

The woman’s attention returned to the Hoshi III Series Multi-stage Turbo Plasma Drives, and Sayuri allowed a small, knowing smile. “I see you’ve taken an interest in one of propulsion technologies. These drives are engineered for a range of applications, from civilian freighters to Star Army vessels. If you’d like, I’d be happy to elaborate on their capabilities or discuss how they might align with your needs.” Sayuri’s tone remained open, professional, and calculated, the years away from public engagements doing little to dull her ability to read the subtle cues of interest and intent. Her curiosity was piqued, not just by the FDC’s presence, but by what might be driving their search for new partnerships in Yamatai’s competitive market.
 
Pavilion C12, Exhibition Hall
Lo'ken Institute

"Quantum intanglement, interesting." Dr. Hasegawa thought to herself as she thought of the reported properties of the Star Army of Yamatai's yarvex material. It too was impenetrable hence the scientists at Ryu Heavy Industries were working on making their own version of the material, highly unsuccessfully though. She made a mental note that she might need to forward this information to them.

She stepped closer to inspect the fabric again, running her fingers gently along its surface with an almost reverent precision. “Have you tested its performance in dynamic conditions? For example, during prolonged surgical procedures or in situations where external contaminants, like battlefield debris, might compromise sterility? The sterilization potential is promising, but its behavior under those stressors will be key to determining its broader application.”

Naomi’s tone shifted, becoming slightly more animated. “Additionally, I can see the potential for expansion beyond Norian-specific care. With further adaptation, this material could become a universal solution for biohazard containment, emergency response kits, or even advanced protective gear for medical personnel.”

She paused, her sharp eyes meeting Aekara’s. “I’d love to discuss a collaboration between Advancer Enterprises and Lo’ken Institute. We have ongoing projects involving Adaptive Nanoweave, which shares some similarities in terms of resilience and dynamic adaptability. Together, we might be able to refine and expand the applications of L’ulorsha Weave, potentially bringing it to a wider market.”

Naomi then turned her body fully towards her to give the proper amount of respect the situation demands. She then looked directly at Aekara, a smile on her face as the xenobiologist in her came beaming out

"Though there were two reasons I wished to talk. Since your people had arrived and established yourselves in the Yamatai Star Empire, Advancer Enterprises has been interested in understanding your biology as we do with every species new to us. Not only to help adapt our medical products to your species, but also potentially advance our understanding and methods of treating individuals regardless of species." she said.

"It has been something hard to do with the lack of Norians in the Fujiko Region to find out the hard way about your acidic blood if it is that much of a problem. As such I wish to propose a detailed biological study on the Norian physiology conducted jointly between your institute and Advancer Enterprises. How a species can have such corrosive blood and not die from it is fascinating." she said as she put a hand on her chin.

"Bio-polymer based blood vessels?"
 
Pavilion C12, Exhibition Hall
Yugumo Corporation

"First time I have been to such an expo, if I am perfectly honest. But there is much to learn." the woman said in response to the first question. The nameplate on her right chest identified her last name as Romero, a rather antiqueted method to convey information in the modern era. Though if one was to send a standard query ping to her, they would get a response back stating the same information plus her affliation to the Fujiko Self-Defense Force with the rank of Lieutenant.

"It is a fascinating piece of technology. Please elaborate on their capabilities please. I am particularly interested in its magnetic mode. Jet mode is a fairly standard application of using fusion drives within an atmosphere since the matter to push a craft is already present." Romero said, turning her attention back to the Hoshi III display.

"The Ryu Keiretsu's M-Type Fusion Drive is adequete for our needs, but I gleamed over some of the deals about the Hoshi III and it seems to achieve a higher acceleration needed for going against foes more advanced than the average pirate" she continued, adding more context into what sorts of capabilities she was interested in.
 
Pavilion D15, Exhibition Hall
Iron Company

The demonstration of the Grounder vehicle had drawn a curious crowd, but among them, one figure stood out—a rugged individual clad in a well-worn utility jacket and clothing typical of Nepleslian Red survivalism. Vedica Radcliff leaned against a nearby railing, her sharp green eyes narrowing as she watched the machine methodically cut through a patch of thick undergrowth.

“Now that’s what I’m talking about,” Vedica muttered under her breath, her tone a mix of admiration and scrutiny. She pushed off the railing and approached the demonstration area, her gaze flicking to the video of the Grounder fending off a whip-lizard.

Once the demonstration paused, Vedica stepped forward, hands on her hips. “Impressive work,” she called out, her voice carrying the confident rasp of someone who knew their trade. “This thing looks comparable to Ryu Heavy Industries' Behemoth Heavy Tactical Truck. So it must be able beating and keep going—but what about maintenance? How easy is it to repair in the field? I’ve been in situations where a busted coolant line can mean life or death if you can’t patch it fast.”

She gestured toward the Grounder’s reinforced hull, her tone shifting to one of genuine curiosity. “And that armor plating—how much is it adding to the weight? You’re running this thing through rough terrain, maybe even steep inclines. I want to know if it’s going to bog down when things get dicey.”
 
Pax couldn't help but soften at Auger's earnest apology. She crouched down to meet Auger's gaze directly, a smirk creeping onto her face. “No worries, Auger! You guys did a ton of work setting everything up. I know how much of a last-minute rush it can be.” She straightened up and mock-saluted, her voice light-hearted. “Now that you’re here, it’s time to shine! Help us draw a crowd!” Rocko, ever the cheerful spirit, bounced on his holographic feet, his animated expression full of enthusiasm. “Absolutely! The more, the merrier! We need to show everyone what the Mining Guild has to offer!” His voice carried a friendly jingle, drawing the eyes of nearby attendees who overheard the trio.

Pax listened intently, her brow furrowing slightly as she absorbed every detail of Ryoji’s explanation. The sense of urgency in his words struck a chord with her; she knew far too well how perilous mining operations could be, especially in unstable environments fraught with danger.

“Fifteen seconds, huh?” she murmured to herself, impressed. “That’s quite the upgrade from what we’re currently using.” She shot a glance at Rocko, whose holographic form flickered slightly as he nodded enthusiastically. “Exactly! That’s a game-changer for our operations!”

Turning her attention back to Ryoji, she pressed on, “Customization is important for us, especially with the environments we work in. We’ve faced situations where reduced pod sizes could mean the difference between getting away or being stuck in the field. Would it be possible to create a version that's more compact, perhaps for solo missions? And how about integrating salvage equipment directly into the pods?”

Edge 41, still concealed within Rocko's holographic field, was quietly analyzing Ryoji's responses, processing the conversational dynamics while taking note of the pod's specifications. The unit's programming was laser-focused on evaluating the potential advantages of the Last Hope series in the Mining Guild’s mission profiles.
 
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