Chapter 255: Collapse
Language barriers proved relatively easy to resolve. By finding mutual reference points, both sides quickly managed to translate their conversations.
However, the female leader of the aliens clearly lacked patience. After a brief appearance, she departed swiftly, leaving behind a female guard in her place.
Later, Reggie learned the guard’s name was Tella, who referred to herself as the Empress’s Chief Guard.
As suspected, this was royalty. Yet, it seemed odd for their Empress to personally visit—did she have too much free time?
Reggie couldn’t make sense of their relationships, but he didn’t dare to ask Tella. This alien female was stoic and unapproachable, making communication nearly impossible.
Reggie’s earlier assumption proved correct: the Riken’s prison was indeed the Cat’s Ear Spaceship. His foresight in suggesting surrender earlier had improved the Riken tribe’s quality of life considerably.
The aliens didn’t restrict their movements. After dismantling a few components from the ship’s engine and disabling the AI, they allowed the Rikens free rein within the ship’s cabins.
The Cat’s Ear Spaceship had been dragged to the asteroid belt near T855. From the windows, one could clearly see small, nearby asteroids. Over time, numerous alien researchers came aboard.
These researchers were much more normal-looking than the intimidating guards. Did the aliens draw such clear distinctions between their scientific and military personnel? Was it that obvious based solely on appearance?