Xnd-011

"Bio-metric signature detected," VERA intoned, a rare hint of urgency in her voice. "The device is activating. It is scanning us."

The ship’s AI, a monotone construct named VERA, processed the query. "Designation: XND-011. Classification: Experimental Nav-Buoy. Status: Inactive for three centuries." xnd-011

Elias lowered his weapon. He sat on the cold metal deck, watching the crystal glow with a warm, amber light. He had gone looking for a fortune, a piece of tech to sell. Instead, he had found a passenger. "Bio-metric signature detected," VERA intoned, a rare hint

"Identity. Confirm. Please. It's so dark." "Bio-metric signature detected

The use of Western-style school uniforms to establish the "American School" setting.

"Unable to comply," VERA said. "The device has integrated with the ship's mainframe. It is uploading data. Navigation is locked."