A Pilgrimage into the Hydras' Lair

[Joe Joerson]

System T-078B was completely unremarkable, no mining installations worth building, nor research stations, forget about habitable planets. That was until a certain treaty between Interstellar powers rendered it a trade zone. Now it was busing with new station constructions being built, the local space blasted with advertisement and flurries of guidance information. Aside from the few barren rocky worlds, now having minute storage operations built in their orbits, and a gas giant only important in its gravitational impact, there are countless ships from various Akreonic Corporations and their Septhi counterparts that chose to join them in the system for mutual trade.

However apart from the masses of ships there are few stopping over, to meet with guides to new space before embarking fully into their holy mission. In addition to guidance in navigational areas also offered was guidance into cultural structures, a journey begins now.

[Mthis]

Ashepta is a Diviner, a young one, dedicated throughout her currently young life to the God of Storms and Electricity, a very powerful and important god in the Septhi Pantheon due to the uses of electricity in most pieces of technology.

Being barely 23 Years old (in rough Earth estimates) she would appear like any other Septhi to most peoples understanding, pristine and pure white fur covers her body, apart from a Grey fured pattern along her forehead in a very ritualistic manner to try and emitate the shape of the Temple of the God of Electricity.

She along with many other young diviners of the various Temples of the Septhi Pantheon have undertakken their sacred task of 'Pilgrimage' to find certain locations around the galaxy where the so called 'veil' between the material universe and what lies beyond is thin, thus in their belief finding closer traces to the Gods, sacred areas, to mark them and study them.

As with most of these 'pilgrims' it is a task mostly followed privately, with permission of the temple ofcourse and funded. As such Ashepta was provided with the aptly named 'Pilgrim' class vessel, a small one-three personal vessel made for private traveling, investigaton, and exploration. However lacks any combat ability, then again it was never designed to serve as a battle instruement.

A Pilgrim vessel is relatively small, with the essentials of survival however, it is not the most comfortable of vessels, but it can serve a traveller well, the most striking feature is the personal shrine located inside each, generally used as a fond of power by the Diviner through prayer and worship.

Ashepta ofcourse also have personal equiptment with her for this task:

-A Standard Nano-fibre Robe engraved with the markings of the Pantheon for personal wear and weather protection.

-A Personal 'Soul-Shield' as the Septhi call it, a personal invisible shield barrier that protects against harmful projectiles powered by the subconscious will of the Septhi. The Device appears as a Necklace with gems.

-Channeling Staff, a Simple but highly ritualistic staff made of Wood from the Septhi homeworld, it is literally just a wooden staff with ritual markings in it.

-Personal Computer. A highly advanced digital personal assistant and guide for storage and information, communication and various other services on the wrist.


Ashepta's vessel arrived at the edge of the system, expecting it to have been quieter than it actually was, instead there was plenty of movement in this system from both parties, mercantile interests were growing clearly. However that is not the reason she was here, she had come on her sacred path of the Pilgrimate into this foreign Xengari nation to find any hints of traces of the Gods marking of this part of the galaxy, and for thta she would need information first, of the locals. As such contact with the local authorities might prove smart as to know how to act and where to head.

[Joe Joerson]

Far 'above' in the elliptic plane a small dispersed flotilla of Xengari Patrol ships send guidance information mainly directed at newly arrived ships. It may be wise to contact them considering that seems to be how they are operating in regards to information given that so far they have not sent any transmission to the newly arrived Diviner vessel. There appears to be some stations that might serve as a local authority but as they are currently under construction it might be best to contact the Patrol ships in the interim.

The background chatter increases slightly as a small flotilla arrives, a few large cargo ships and two ships of different construction, four of the group of six head towards the new constructions, the cargo vessels however the two of different construction stay back at the edge of the system slowly scanning among the mess of ships. If one could particularly tell they appear to be scanning the Septhi ships for general construction, likely for identification, however what exact identification they are looking for might be any number of things.

[Mthis]

Ashepta seems to think it wisest to contact the patrol ships, and promptly sends her ships identification codes to the Patrol vessels, requesting permission to speak. Sending a voiced message along it as well.

"Pilgrim 87 of Taskhak Temple requesting cordinates for safe docking location."

[Joe Joerson]

The transmission appears to be received as a return signal is sent.

"Greetings Pilgrim 87 of Taskhak Temple, we are currently processing your request and apologize for the delay, requests currently exceed recommended operating conditions. Are there any arrangements you or your associated organizations may have made in Akreonic space?"

[Mthis]

"I have arrived on a Private Journey of Visiting your space on my Pilgrimage, i have no arrangements but the knowledge that my temple sent word i would be entering your space"

[Joe Joerson]

This time a response is much longer in the making as well one the earlier scanning vessels breaks from the other and continues, heading on a course that would take it to the Gas Giant of the system, on closer inspection the hull design would reveal a flat elongated ship, curving in a 190 degree arc before melding back in a concave shape into a central engine body. The ship might be visually similar to various aquatic animals most visually similar to Manta rays. If one were to scan the vessel they would note sturdy defensive measures however there is a lack of offensive armaments.

"Yes, your file has been located after assistance from the Xengari, there is open docking on Temporary Supply Depot A-7 currently in orbit of the Gas Giant in the outer system. Unfortunately only resupplies of essential materials may be offered, no extensive ship repair, commodities or entertainments are available, we are very sorry for this situation. In addition a ship from Ulwa Information Services has made a request to speak with your own being. Their communications frequency is as follows:" A rather complicated series of identifiers follows, likely not being helped by the vast number of ships in the system. "If you require additional information or assistance please request it."

From the identifiers assigned to each ship one might recognize the Ray-like vessels to be from Ulwa Information Services, the specific code given would refer to the specific one that has departed for the Gas Giant.

[Mthis]

"Thank you for the assistance, i will proceed to the dock and contact the Ulma Information Services. Gods Bless you." After that Ashepta starts turning her vassal towards the Gas Giant and the Supply Depot, trying to maintain an understand off where the potential Ulwa ship is. Afterall they wished to talk with her.

[Joe Joerson]

The supply depot orbits relatively slowly in the upper orbit of the Gas Giant. Appearing as a simple central box with several stalks shooting off for docking, colored in the deep blue that the Xengari seem to prefer, it contrasts with the bright many colored Gas Giant it sits 'above'. After receiving the confirmation signal that the Patrol vessel is finished its discourse the Ulwa Corporation vessel transmits to Ashepta's ship. The transmission begins with a video and audio link to a Xengar wearing a very brightly colored armored vacuum suit.

"Greetings alien! I am the third class reservist, independent Executive and High Lord Zinat s'Ulwa! And I must welcome you Akreonic space! On behalf of Ulwa Information Services!"

Aside from sounding like they are constantly attempting to make everything sound like a once in a lifetime offer, in just three easy steps if you order now, Zinat's heads move constantly mostly bobbing up and down at different rates. A far cry from the normal cautious Xengari.

"In any case I am here to offer you a deal! But first let's meet up! I notice that we are heading to the same Gas Giant, what a coincidence! Let's meet there! Oh and here's my ship id so you know where to reply to! Please have a Terrific day!"

The transmission cuts out after that rather stupefying performance. Shortly afterward a ship id for the appropriate ship is transmitted.

[Mthis]

Simply acknowledges the call and listens, heading for the Gas Giant to meet with this Xengar in person, afterall it would be the wisest to get information of anything first before beginning her Pilgrimage across this foreign part of space.

[Joe Joerson]

After arranging docking conditions with traffic control on the same depot as the Pilgrim ship, Zinat starts making arrangements for both ships arrival on the supply depot. Admittedly this is mostly arguing with the Supply depot's maintenance A.I. about the proper use of maintenance robots, essentially rephrasing all requests in a way that is very specifically related to maintenance but effectively has no relation. For whatever reason, whether it is the max speed of the craft or another factor the Ulwa ship is heading slowly enough that the Pilgrim ship will arrive at the Supply depot first.

In the rest of the system the frenetic activity continues with the rapid transmissions, offers and advertisement. As well during the travel time to the depot several more ships leave, having filled or emptied their cargo hold, as well as several more ships enter thee system ready to fill their holds or empty them. Likely broadcasting brand new advertisements to fill the void left by the advertisements that left with the ships broadcasting them.

[Mthis]

Ashepta docks her ship simply and prepares to head out of her ship for a while, good thing to stretch her legs and tail for abit. However before leaving the Ship she grabs one of the many small personal relics of worship from her ships shrine to carry on her person, a simpe cylindrical object made of metal covered in runes.

Having a look around the station could be in order while waiting for the Ulwa to arrive.

[Joe Joerson]

The supply Depot does have a large amount of open docking space, what little that is already taken up is mostly automated parasite shuttles for larger Xengari Cargo vessels elsewhere in the system. Though the supply depot may be built in a more utilitarian style from the outside the interior is built in the grandiose style of most Xengari constructions. Larger arched hallways often with numerous side passages built to accommodate robots of various sizes to access different areas easily, some could fit Septhi others even an Axtromd might have trouble with. There are around numerous robots of Xengari origin going about various tasks, mostly the smaller spider-like robots though there are a few Bipedal though the floating ones are no where to be found.

After a short while of walking around, the supply depot is built almost maze like in complexity, one of the Bipedal robots approaches Ashepta, behind it several of the small spider-like robots are busy removing a container clearly of Septhi origin from a docking area, the Bipedal robots starts 'speaking' in the Septhi language.

"Honored Guest of the Ulwa Corporation, do you require anything? There are several amenities offered at this station. Alternatively a tour of this depot is offered while you wait. Apologies for interrupting any and all of your own superior plans Honored Guest."

[Mthis]

Ashepta eyes the Robots slightly, automated workforces are generally not prefered in the Dynasty due to its believed it makes the people lax and lazy. However the Xengari are not the Septhi, and one should respect other cultures ways of living their exsistance in the graned cosmos of things. She nows and bows to the Robot before talking.

"A tour of the facility would be appreciated, as well as a place where i can recuperate. I would also like to speak with the Ulwa leaders themselves present, someone here wished to talk with me."

[Joe Joerson]

The robot remains motionless throughout Ashepta's reply. Other robots simply ignore the Septhi and the specific robot except in conditions of navigation. The robot states its reply.

"This weak unit does not question your wisdom, however there are no Xengari currently on this depot. Independent Executive Zinat s'Ulwa is currently on his way and will be here shortly. There are several rest areas. If the Honored Guest does not object to this feeble unit's plans, then it will conduct a tour thus making the great Honored Guest aware of all rest areas and other necessities and amenities. If the Honored Guest would follow this unit."

The bipedal robot turns as though to lead the way somewhere however it was halted mid way through the action waiting for a reply.

Considering the rather self deprecating way their robots and 'servants' act may reveal something about the Xengari, or at least their robot manufacturers.

[Mthis]

Ashepta ponders abit over the submisive attitude of the machine..But it was potentially designed to fully serve its masters..Best not to ask or think such questions yet. She however nods.

"Please do give me such a tour then, i will follow."

[Joe Joerson]

At this the robot fully turns and leads the tour through the depot ending with a room simply called a 'meeting room'. This room is large but mostly bare except for the floor which seems to be covered in a soft blue material reminiscent of some kinds of vegetation which gives some when pressed as demonstrated by the robot. Previously along the tour there were various highlights at which time any questions about them would have been answered.

First various details about the docking bays and other technical parts and aspects of the station as they move inward to the core of the depot. As well parts of the depot are mentioned in little detail as the robot explains it cannot allow her to go there.

Next are the 'amenities' previously mentioned which mostly consist of something called a 'Virtual environment room' however the robot explains that it is limited. As well various consoles are shown which are quite obviously built for Xengari given the height of the controls the rather large field of vision required for it, almost a two hundred and seventy degree field of vision, and the relative difficulty to operate the controls.

At any point if more general questions are asked or if Ashepta stays to look at something the robot either answers to the best of its ability or waits for Ashepta to finish.

(I decided to go with this format so as to not have a long start-stop reply chain on just a tour before even speaking to the Xengar they were going to, I hope you don't mind too much but I think this way of stating the tour will allow us to just touch on the parts that questions would be asked or things noted without going through a lot of posts which just essentially say 'carry on'.)

[Mthis]

Ashepta simply follows studying the facilities of the station, before heading to whereever the Robot would seem fit to wait for the Xengar she is potentially to meet later. She holds the Cyllinder in her hand running fingers along a few of the runes as she waits, silently worshipping.

[Joe Joerson]

The robot simply has her wait in the 'meeting room', it doesn't leave and simply stays there with her if she allows it. In either case the robot would soon alert her that Independent Executive Zinat s'Ulwa, of Ulwa Information Services, has docked and will soon arrive, and assuming that Ashepta does not do anything that would significantly change outcomes Zinat arrives.

He is alone, still in his armored Vacuum suit which is still garishly colored, no robots accompany him and he soon speaks approaching and dipping one head across his chest as he does so. He is able to move with ease across the floor that is rather hard to walk or run on do to how far it can be pressed inward.

"Oh hello! We meet! I am so sorry for detaining you for so long, after all your mission must be very important."

If it translates well that last sentence is likely the most normal thing Zinat has said so far, however his lack of mentioning the deal and apparent intent to speak of pleasantries for at least a little while might be annoying.

[Mthis]

Ashepta dosnt seem to mind the robots presence, but dosnt ask anything of it. As soon as Zinat arrives she bows respectfully briefly before talking.

"Theres nothing to say sorry for Xengar. I was merely wondering what you wished to talk about, a Pilgrimage can be a long journey."

[Joe Joerson]

Zinat speaks.

"Indeed I am sure it can be, however I will speak of why I wished to talk with you. You must understand that Ulwa Information Services specializes as is in its name in information. What I believe we can offer you is essentially a role of a guide, as much as you wish to help meet your needs, in both types of navigation, of space and society. And what I believe you can offer us is again simple information, nothing compromising of course but general information that you can offer so that more Xengari might understand your own people and your temples."

Now speaking directly with him, his tone is a lot more serious than the rather salesman-like pitch he was in earlier.

[Mthis]

"That sounds reasonable..A guide throughout your space would be wise as i travel your stars and worlds in search of the thin veil between the planes of exsistance. I would appreciate such a thing. But what exactly in information would you like to know in return?"

[Joe Joerson]

As the conversation goes on Zinat continues the more serious tone, a small oddity considering how he spoke before.

"Anything that might be helpful, cultural information and other small things that might be gained would be valued but what I am asking for really are those locations where the veil is thin. As well if you would we would prefer that you do not inform other Corporations before at least your journey through Akreonic space is over."

[Mthis]

"I do not know where these areas would be, which is why i am exploring to find them, i will sense then when i am near" Ashepta however raised a brow at the mention of not to inform other Corporations "I am guessing buisness rivalry is big here?"

[Joe Joerson]

"Business rivalry is present among other concerns. However the locations are still highly valued, perhaps a reporting as they are found?"

Zinat has his side heads side onward to Ashepta in the Xengari position of intense interest. The 'Other concerns' might be an interesting subject given Zinat's avoidance of speaking of them.

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