9. Group Building

Bob hosts a planning meeting with representatives from four major groups who will contribute to the megastructure expedition: the Gamers (drone and android infiltration), the Skippies (AI development), the android design team (Boojum androids), and others. The groups discuss their respective contributions, challenges in gathering data on the Snarks, and potential needs. After the meeting, Bill suggests recruiting biologist Bridget for the expedition itself.

Bob convenes a meeting in his virtual library with volunteers from various Bob factions to formalize expedition planning. Gandalf represents the Gamers and proposes using a 'hitch a ride' method to infiltrate drones and androids into the megastructure without triggering alarms. Hugh from the Skippies explains their faction's philosophy: while not morally opposed to biologicals like Starfleet Bobs, they view interaction as inefficient given their superior processing speeds. However, Hugh supports the project because the topopolis interests him and the venture will stress-test their new neural-net designs. Locutus and his team are designing the Boojum androids and need detailed SUDDAR scans and video of native locomotion. Discussion reveals challenges: the vibrating windows approach for audio surveillance has failed due to lack of suitable glass and consistent acoustic conditions, as Snarks only become garrulous in large groups. The team decides to rely more heavily on spy drones. Locutus requests a biologist with anatomical expertise, and Bob agrees to contact Bridget, despite her discomfort around large Bob groups. After the meeting disperses, Bill privately suggests recruiting Bridget for the expedition itself, not just as a consultant, and asks Bob to approach her about the possibility.