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!]

by the healers a few times. It’s important that we make sure she’s getting the best possible care; after all that she’s done for us, it’s the least we

she shudders. [Those healers wouldn’t let me walk unaided until I started hitting them with a stick. They didn’t mind that I hit them, but they felt

swinging a walking stick at the

really happened? I’m not sure

happened. I’m old, Anthony, not

point, old woman. We want to keep you old and not

I accomplished more than I ever really expected to. I’m

unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report

mission. All this travel? Admit it, you’re having a great

am,] she smiled,

More enjoyable things are bound to

can tell she doesn’t really mean it. [I came over here to discuss a serious

Serious matters, eh? You know I like to keep

the city who wanted to come and meet you ahead of the market opening tomorrow. It’s

fire brigade? Leader of the local ‘Friends of the Grape’ wine society? Or… the leader of the army, or

replies, looking a little troubled, [and I don’t think the Eran knows

out the

is put in place, chairs, all that stuff. The bakers get to work and we have

delicious, I have to say. I wasn’t really partial to tea as a human, unless boiling

whatever reason, I decide to get Jern and 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 who shows up can detect them, then