The air inside the Arkbound conference room was thick with anticipation. Digital maps hovered above the table, showing vast, untouched land marked for government development. Screens buzzed with live coverage of the announcement: a massive project to build a fully functional smart city in the remotest part of the continent.
Kael scanned the specs. "If we go full deployment, we can have the city ready in sixty days. Fastest turnaround they'll ever see."
Raen leaned against the table, arms crossed. "Do it in fifty-five. If we're serious about Arkbound's future, we have to leave no doubt."
Nyra was already accessing public channels. "Quotes are due by tomorrow. They're expecting proposals from major corps, including Vexon and Solen."
"We're not just another bidder," Raen said, his voice low but firm. "We're going to change the narrative."
Everyone turned toward him.
"We'll pitch for the project—but that land won't just be for them. If we secure it, we'll use it to establish something bigger."
Nyra raised an eyebrow. "You mean…"
Raen gave a slight nod. "Arkbound Aerospace. We'll use that land to build our launch and R&D site. Remote, unmonitored, and under our control."
Kael sat back in his chair. "You've been thinking about this."
"For a while," Raen said. "And now's the time. We've proven what the bots can do. That city we built for Barron Vrax is proof. No delays, no corruption, just results."
Nyra tilted her head. "We're pivoting toward aerospace now?"
Raen looked her dead in the eye. "Yes. And to do that, I need one more person. Someone sharp. Someone with knowledge in both space engineering and research. Not just theory—real, practical mind that can build alongside us."
Nyra gave a slow nod. "A dual-discipline expert. Alright. I'll find someone. But they have to be loyal."
"More than loyal," Raen said. "They need to believe in what we're doing."
Raen turned to Kael. "You and Nyra will handle the city project pitch tomorrow. Make it perfect. Secure that land. If the government's slow, we go public with our own plans."
Nyra smirked. "You want the city and the sky."
Raen grinned faintly. "Why not both?"
The room fell silent for a beat.
Kael cracked his knuckles. "Then let's build a future that reaches orbit."
Nyra stood. "I'll have your space engineer. And we'll make sure the pitch opens every door we need."
Raen gave a nod of approval. "Good. This deal could fund the vision. Don't miss."