Chrysalis

As a representative of the Colony, the Eldest became an invaluable asset over time. With their unique ability to speak to anyone and hold the family’s interest at the forefront of their mind, the Eldest was a fearsome negotiator.

In many ways, they became the weapon of choice for the Colony in our diplomatic efforts. A stable presence, who never lost sight of the main goal, and who could overwhelm others with the sheer force of their monstrous presence.

Of course, as time passed, it became almost impossible for them to rise high enough in the Dungeon to speak with other representatives, but the Eldest was always willing to serve the family, despite the pain.

That is why we repay them in kind. Regardless of the pain.

- From the private notes of Diplomant.

[Anthony?]

[Hey there, Enid. I thought you were going for a nap?]

The old woman huffs, her hands on her hips as she glares up at me.

[Just because you tell me to go and sleep, doesn’t mean I will. Do you seriously think you’re the boss of me?]

[I wouldn’t dare. However, it does sound like you might be in need of a full medical….]

She draws back in horror, eyes darting to the dark corners of my warehouse.

[You wouldn’t!]

it really that bad?] I ask, amused. She’s been abducted by the healers a few times. It’s important that we make sure she’s getting the best

them with a stick. They didn’t mind that I hit them, but they felt it

a walking stick at the healers is

not sure I believe

it happened. I’m old, Anthony, not

point, old woman. We want to

really expected to. I’m

has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if

mission. All this travel?

smiled, [it’s been very

around, then. More

pestering me,] she scowls, but I can tell she doesn’t really mean it. [I came over here to discuss a serious matter, not to

Serious matters, eh? You know I like to keep those

of the market opening tomorrow.

these people? Is it the head of the fire brigade? Leader of the local ‘Friends of the Grape’ wine society? Or… the leader of the army, or something?

a little troubled, [and I don’t think the Eran knows either. I would

Better roll out the red carpet,

the time our guests arrive, I’ve enlisted the help of Cobalt to get things looking presentable. A nice table is put in place, chairs, all that stuff. The bakers get to work and we have a fine selection of cakes and, of course, the Colony’s finest tea steaming

my tier seven frame. The tea is delicious, I have to say. I wasn’t really partial to tea as a human, unless boiling leaves and weeds counts as tea?

Alis to stick around on either side of me, wearing something semi-official looking. They’re ‘guardians of the sanctum’ or whatever, so they may as well be around. I also take the unusual step of demanding that Protectant and her twenty be visible for the meeting. If someone