2275 Meeting
On this particular day, Emery left the Academy Hall with two of his acolytes, Blaine and Bellana. Their planned visit to the insectoid queen's world unexpectedly turned into a meeting at a high-end dining establishment in Utopia City.
The moment Emery stepped inside, it became evident that the entire venue had been reserved. There were no other customers, just Emery and a group of insectoids. The atmosphere was tense, with a dozen intimidating magus scattered around, each displaying distinct insectoid features, such as various types of antennae sprouting from their foreheads.
"The queen has been waiting upstairs," one of the magus stated coldly, blocking Blaine and Bellana from following.
Emery, unfazed, confidently ascended the ladder to the upper floor. As he stepped into the room, he was greeted by the sight of a woman with skin as white as snow. Her aura was undeniable—she was a grand magus, radiating a majestic presence. Two other female magus stood behind her, their expressions solemn, enhancing the tense atmosphere.
"Welcome, Master Emery," the queen greeted with a warm, almost disarming smile.
This was more than Emery had expected. The insectoid half-bloods were notorious for their rough and often uncivilized demeanor, so this friendly reception was a pleasant surprise.
Emery responded with a polite nod, offering a small bow before taking a seat across the table from her. The two magus who had been standing behind the queen moved forward, not to intimidate, but rather to serve. They poured drinks with the practiced grace of attendants, their insectoid features contrasting sharply with their refined actions.
"I am Queen Phyllis of the Fifth Colony," she introduced herself, "I am also the birthgiver to both Blaine and Bellana... I am their mother."
Before the meeting, Emery had taken the time to familiarize himself with the intricate details of insectoid half-bloods. He knew that only queen insects could give birth to offspring, often resulting in hundreds of siblings from various mates. It wasn't unusual for siblings to exhibit different insectoid traits, like Blaine's ant-like characteristics and Bellana's worm-like features.
As the conversation began, Queen Phyllis initiated a casual chat, discussing the lives of insectoid half-bloods and inquiring about the academy. However, Emery, with his divine sense, quickly discerned that these seemingly innocuous topics were part of the queen's subtle strategy. She was carefully gauging his truthfulness while subtly releasing her natural pheromones to create a more pleasant and positive atmosphere, aiming to influence Emery's perception of her.
The queen listened intently, her demeanor softening slightly, but her response was unexpected. She chuckled softly, a sound that carried both amusement and a hint of something else. "Master Emery," she said with a knowing smile, "you are more human than I thought..."
Emery was taken aback by the queen's unexpected willingness to let him conduct research on her children, even if it meant taking risks with their safety.
Her conditions, however, were what truly caught his attention. "If the research is successful," she stated, "we would like our share of interest from the results. And if it contributes to your Supreme Gene Project, we wish to be actively informed as well."
Emery paused, considering her words carefully. It was indeed a fair request, but one that carried significant implications. The involvement of the Insectoid half-bloods in the Supreme Gene Project could complicate matters, especially since the project was under the jurisdiction of the Serpent Clan. He would need their approval before proceeding.
Just as Emery was about to respond, the queen added, "There is one more thing we desire." Her tone was calm, yet there was a clear undertone of determination.
"Please, do share," Emery replied.
With a smile, the queen revealed her request. "We... wish for you to accept more of our young acolytes into your hall... let's agree on, ...twenty more."
What do you think?
Avan
Creator's Thought
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