Chapter 418: The Meeting
For Elder Humes, the existence of a Swarm Empress was only mildly surprising. The importance of the treaty itself was debatable—it was both significant and procedural. Ultimately, it served as an opportunity for the Ji to gather more information about the Swarm.
It made sense that such a vast organization as the Swarm would have a supreme leader or governing body to manage its operations. What caught Humes slightly off guard was the fact that this supreme leader was female.
This revelation reminded him of early speculations about the Swarm’s societal structure—matriarchy, eusocial evolution, and so on. These thoughts brought a wry smile to his face, and he couldn’t help but shake his head in amusement.
“Elder Humes, may I ask what amusing thought has crossed your mind?” came a voice nearby. It was aged yet firm, speaking in the Ji language with impeccable clarity.
“I was merely recalling some happy memories, Lord Morgan,” Humes replied, glancing at the speaker.
Though Morgan seemed poised to press further, Humes deftly changed the topic. “Technology always has two sides. It’s been a long time since I’ve traveled this far. How long must we wait before we meet your Empress?”
Morgan, who held the title of Adjutant to the Empress, had been chosen to greet Elder Humes due to the significance of the meeting. Given Humes’ status as a Ji Elder, it was only fitting for someone of equivalent rank and stature to welcome him.
After their introductions, Humes noted that Morgan also bore the title of Empress’ Mentor, a position whose exact responsibilities within the Swarm hierarchy were unclear. Still, Morgan’s role in leading the delegation made it evident that he wielded significant authority.
The trek to the underground palace proved taxing for Humes. The Ji delegation had to abandon their craft at the entrance, continuing the journey on foot through lengthy corridors. While Morgan strode effortlessly without breaking a sweat—seemingly capable of walking another ten kilometers—Humes found himself struggling to keep pace.