Chapter 9: Chapter 8: Queens, Hives and upgrades

Three weeks have passed in the blink of an eye and we have been in orbit around Vahli Prime for most of that time. The Empress is taking care of matters on the planet, leaving the Hive in my...not so capable hands. Aine and I together try to run the Hive, but it seems that a Queen is much busier than anyone would assume. 

 

I think these few weeks taught me much about general Hive business, like resource needs or waste management issues. Not really something a Queen should worry about, but apparently it's my job to think about everything. I seriously underestimated the former Queen. 

 

Last week, the Empress visited the Huntress and told me that keeping a Hive running is one thing, but preparing for battle is another. Yes, you heard that right.

 

The Kakross keep sending Vipers, their equivalent of our interceptors, almost on a daily basis. And the Empress is, and I quote, "sick and tired" of this. She wants to take the fight to them. But we can't. 

 

She expects our Hive to go full throttle: increase the number of our workers without further delay. And implement any improvements I can think of. She practically gave me carte blanche: I can do whatever I want as long as it benefits us. Suffice to say that the war effort is not going well at the moment. 

 

So today marks the first day of Akari's "kick some wasp butt plan." I needed some time to prepare, and I think I now have my plans ready to implement. The Empress wants changes? She shall have them! 

 

Don't complain if you don't like it! Today is going to be a loooong day. Never before in this Hive's history will so much change in one single day. I'm just curious how long it will take before the Empress will knock on my door...and start complaining that I have gone too far...

Let's see, what else has happened? Ah right, three more Hives have joined us, a dozen more are on their way. I'm not even counting the many escorts that are here now. It feels like this is going to be this species' last stand. Or more precisely, our species' last stand. Sad, but true.

 

My eyes are now the exact same blue color as the others'. My wing muscles, or whatever you want to call them are now very noticeable. At least I can now use the uniforms the way they were designed, to show off my wings. My uniform, if you can call it that way, is now a Queen's uniform. But the word uniform hardly does it any justice. They are truly royal robes, reminding me of a kimono-like dress. Even the color is royal red. I hope I can keep my head cool and not become arrogant or start speaking like "we this" and "we that," because I'm no fan of royal speech. But since they refer to these royal robes as "uniforms" too, I am starting to understand the hierarchy a bit better.

 

This hierarchy, or Hive mentality to put it in other words, can easily be compared to a military organization. But one that is not optimized. Far from it. No problem....let Akari worry about that!

 

Ah right, my nose and ears seem unaffected by the changes so far. The doctor says that they will probably stay that way, same for my teeth. Otherwise the changes would already have been visible. Well, he's the doc, so let's hope he's right. The two bumps on top of my head are now indistinguishable from other females' nodes....whatever they are. I subtly asked what they are for, but nobody wanted to give me a clear answer. At least they won't grow into antennas, or feelers as the doc calls them. I don't think I would ever get used to those. Maybe I should just order the doc to tell me?

 

And believe it or not, I just received word that our new Queen is about to hatch!

 

I already know my way around by now, so Aine is visiting the Commander, discussing some of my ideas on my behalf. That should save me some time. Time to spend wisely for a major event.

[ Meeting a new Queen ]

Nothing can stop me from hurrying over to the nursery where the Hive's new Queen will start her new life. Aine was surprised that I was so enthusiastic about this, as Queens are usually cared for by nurses and learn "on the job".

 

But this one simply has to be different. I'm supposed to take her under my wings...literally I guess. So this is the first Queen who will receive another approach when growing up. I intend to give her some Japanese values and give her lots of hugs. 

 

She needs to integrate a new way of doing things into this Hive. My way. Now that many more children are to be hatched, our Queen needs more other values and knowledge. Knowledge that currently only I possess. I know, that sounds arrogant, but their culture really is that different. 

Is it so surprising that I can't wait to meet her? She's going to make history!

 

The nursery where our new Queen is cared for, is the one where Riki is the main nurse. It's close to where my former teammates live, so I may run into them too.

But it's about ten minutes away from the throne room. I know a few shortcuts now, so it's not too bad.

One of these shortcuts lead right through a mess hall. 

 

Why should I walk around it?

I don't care when people see a Queen walking in and out of a mess hall, just because it's a shortcut. Aine doesn't seem to like the idea, but she doesn't complain. So I guess it's okay.

 

I arrive at the nursery and see Riki working. She's bathing the little ones and another nurse is clothing them.

 

Riki spots me and says "Akari...oh...forgive me, my Queen. Wow..you...sure look different...eh my Queen."  She bows to me and so does the other nurse.

 

"Please be at ease. Both of you. I'm still Akari. And not the Queen of this Hive, alright." 

 

Riki smiles and drags the other nurse to me.

 

"Mari, this is Akari. She's the one I told you about. You know, the one who helped me out that day?"

 

"Ah right, nice to meet you! I can't believe I'm speaking to a Queen!" 

 

"Nice to meet you too, Mari. And please don't think of me like that. But you know why I'm here, right?"

 

"Of course, Akari. Our new Queen is about to hatch. It won't be long now."

She points me towards a rather luxurious basket. She hasn't hatched yet and is already treated like a Queen! 

 

I walk to the basket and see that our new Queen is indeed sleeping in a bit bigger cocoon than the others. She's already taller than the other workers.

The fluffy white cotton candy cocoon is moving a bit. Only barely noticeable. 

 

"Ohhh! It's time!" Riki said.

 

Mari runs to us as well and is smiling warmly. This is a rare occurrence, even for nurses. A new Queen is about to hatch.

 

Riki gently removes the outer layer of the cocoon and I see a little hand moving inside. She can at least get fresh air now. Mari then assists Riki to help the little one out of her shell.

 

"Awwww..look at that."  Mari said.

 

We all agreed how cute the little one is. 

 

"What's her name?" Riki asked me.

 

"That's what I asked our Empress..and well...she asked me to take care of it. So...

Welcome to your Hive, little Queen Miwa. It means "harmony" in my language. I don't know how it sounds in your language though?"

 

"Ah, I know that trick. When we say this code word in our language, the next sentence won't be translated. So her name is "Nivaral."  Did you hear it?

 

"Did you say Nivaral?" I said. 

 

"Ehhh...no...I said Nivaral." Riki appears confused.

 

"Yeah, I thought as much. Don't understand a thing. But how does her name sound in your language?"

I just want to know if that is a good name in their own language.

 

"What word do you hear when I say....Miwa...?" Mari asked.

 

"I hear the name I chose. So it's nice?" I still don't have an answer.

 

"Yes, it's a lovely name. We understand it as the word for "working together peacefully." It's an unusual but appropriate name for a Queen." Riki finally confirms that the name is acceptable.

 

"Alright, Miwa it is then. Tell me Riki, did you receive our Empress's orders that you are to watch over her in the nursery?"

 

"Yes, it is my honor. But Mari will help too of course. We will take excellent care of our new Queen. Don't you worry a bit."

 

"Good, thank you. Both of you. I'm supposed to run this Hive for a while. Until she's old enough. But I promise to spend more than enough time with her. Thank you for your hard work."

 

"Ha ha ha, it's our role, Akari," Mari said. 

 

A crap, I said it again. Well, they do work hard. So let's not think about this. I've a Hive to run. Just don't know how yet. The Empress simply said: "you will learn, as have we. There is no way to prepare, you are a Queen and you will learn, that's a fact." It wasn't that helpful.

 

"Alright, please take care of her."

 

"Of cou...awww, she's hungry already." Riki said, while glancing my way.

 

"Huh, I thought you said that they didn't need to eat right after hatching? And that gave you time to help others to hatch?"

 

"True, but Queens are the only exception. They start demanding the minute they hatch. But we are busy now, trust me...she can wait five more minutes. Riki and I need to help the others hatch. Can you hold her?"

 

"Eh...sure...but please feed her soon."

 

"Of course, Akari. Don't worry so much. We know what we do."

 

"Eh..sure...sorry."

 

Both of them smiled when I took little Miwa in my arms. They left me standing here and attended to the other little ones.

 

"waaaaaa waaaaaa." 

 

Oh my god, she keeps crying. Is that normal for these babies?

I feel sorry for her, she's hungry, but the others need help too. 

 

I guess this is going to be her first lesson in life, to respect the lives of others.

 

Maybe I should sit down.....yuck..what is that? I suddenly tasted something strange. Did I just throw up..? No, that's not it.

 

It's...sweet. No no, this tastes like vanilla custard and...banana? Strange. Whatever, it was only for a second. Maybe I subconsciously smelled Miwa's pheromones?

Yeah, that's it. The others can smell pheromones, and with these changes going on inside my body, I must finally be able to notice them too.

 

So THAT's how I "smell" to others. Interesting. I thought the word "Queen" or something would pop up in my mind somehow...but I guess not.

 

I walk towards the nurses but see that they don't have time for me. Miwa keeps crying, little cuddly fluffy Miwa. She's so cute. 

 

I kiss her on her forehead and try to reassure her. But she only stops crying for a few seconds. Is...is she expecting me to feed her now?

 

But I can't! I want to ask Riki, but she already walks over to me. Then Miwa resumes the crying, which makes the other ones cry too.

 

"Akari, I know it's awkward for you, but just kiss her. It is instinct, she will be quiet then. We can't feed all the other ones at the same time....and these here still need help hatching."

 

"But..but..."

 

"Please, Akari...just...just do it..please. It won't harm either of you."

 

"Alright Riki, if you really want me to."

 

"No, not want...need." She puts her hand on my shoulder to emphasize her seriousness.

 

Well, I don't have a choice, do I? Why do I suddenly feel a strong need to protect her?

There's not much left of my humanity, I guess. Oh kami-sama, help me....please!

I sit down near Mari, and Miwa stares at my lips. It must be instinct, she's totally focussed on my lips. At least she stopped crying. But for how long? Oh god, here I go. I gently lower my head and let our lips touch. 

 

"Well done Akari, just breathe through your nose. We're almost done here." 

 

I can't answer them of course, but little Miwa closes her eyes. She seems happy for the moment. I wonder how long it takes for her to start complaining again. There it is again..this strange taste on my tongue. I don't think this is my nose.........what's going on?

 

Miwa somehow creates a vacuum in her mouth...how does she even do that? Don't babies need to suckle for that? But her lips don't move at all.

Weird how these things work. Just a few minutes more and Riki or Miwa will take over from me. Just a bit longer.

Then something happens...I taste the banana flavor very strongly and I feel a few drops rolling down my tongue. I release the kiss and see Miwa looking at me, really surprised. Well, don't look at me!

 

"D...did you just feed her?" Riki asked. She startled me. "Sorry to startle you."

 

I looked up at her, totally bewildered "no way....that can't be..but it did taste the same....but with banana flavor. I thought it was her pheromones?"

 

"Oh, Akari. I don't know what a banana is, but that must be your own nourishment. You are a Queen after all. It all makes sense now...your pheromones."

 

"Yes, yes...I noticed it too. I saw Miwa swallow once. Look at her..she's surprised why you stopped." Mari said, while gently brushing Miwa's cheeks.

 

"Akari, listen to me. You are her...guardian for lack of a better word. The Queen asked you to look after her. She's your responsibility. What greater way to form a connection with her while she's newly hatched?

Please Akari, it will create a strong bond between you two if you are the only one to feed her. I promise that you won't regret it. She will see you as her mother. And I believe that is what our Empress wants." Riki said, trying to convince me to continue feeding Miwa.

 

"You think so? I..I should? Is it safe for her?"

 

"Of course. Trust me...if she didn't like the nourishment....she would have cried insanely loud by now. Look at her, she's waiting for you. That's the look of someone who's bewildered why you stopped."

 

I looked at Miwa again and...did she just smile? She really is cute. Alright then. It's just nature, nothing I can do about it. She looks at my lips again...I know...just give me time for this. It's still unnatural for me. Oh god, I really have to?

 

Riki and Mari are attending to the others again, but keep watching me. They are curious of course, but so am I. No pressure Akari...

 

I gently bend over and kiss her again. I see her close her eyes and feel the vacuum again. Relax...relax....relax.

Nothing? Ah...there it starts...it seems it requires a desire to start feeding. It is not something automatic. This is so weird....I feel liquid gently flowing through my mouth, but

I can't feel how my body is producing this. It just...works. I close my eyes and let Miwa drink, for as long as this...process...works.

 

"Akari, it's alright now, she's not drinking anymore." Riki had to wake me up. I really feel like I just slept for a few minutes.

 

I open my eyes and see Miwa looking at me. I release the kiss and see Miwa smiling at me now.

"Well done, my Queen." I look over my shoulder and see Aine with a very big smile. 

 

"Oh, Aine...sorry...I didn't see...."

"No no. I didn't want to disturb you both. What you did...amazing. It worked! I don't know if Riki said it, but our new Queen will never forget how much affection you showed her when you exclusively fed her."

 

"Yes, she said that. But... is it alright? Did Miwa have enough? Is it.."

 

"Yes..yes. Akari. My little worker...you did well. She's perfectly happy. Look at her."

 

I look at the little one in my arms and see that she's sound asleep. Yes, this is the look of a happy baby.

 

I feel sleepy and hungry now. "Aine, can you please take her and put her in her crib?"

 

"Of course, my Queen.."  Aine is just teasing me, and I show her a smile. 

 

She puts little Miwa in her crib and the nurses promise to look after her. 

But before I could leave the nursery, I had to promise to feed Miwa at least five times a day. 

When Aine reminded me that the hatchlings mature within only a few months...I decided that I would accept the job. It's just for a little while.

 

When she's older she has to learn to eat those waffles, though. I'm not going to feed her for who knows how long. 

 

I follow Aine to our alcove and she asks me how I feel.

 

"I feel fine, just a bit sleepy and hungry, but fine otherwise."

 

"Very good, because this was your first feeding. Sometimes a nurse, or in this instance a Queen, rejects a child. It is something natural and it usually means that the child needs nourishment from another. But Miwa seems happy and so do you. As for your hunger..."

 

Well, you know what happened next. I was looking forward to those waffles again. But not today...Aine's puppy eyes were too strong to ignore.

It's strange that these feeding sessions start to feel so natural to me already. But those waffles...god I want to eat those.

 

After "lunch,"  I decided that I needed a short break from all this Hive business. So I asked Aine about my nails and my hair. They are too long for comfort now. 

 

"Your nails? I thought those claws were retractable?" Aine said.

 

"No, they're nails. And no, I'm afraid they just keep growing. I need to clip them."

 

"Oh, that's not so difficult. It's another thing we seem to have in common. We have to cut our nails every month. Or are your nails really tough to cut off?"

 

"No, not at all. And what about my hair?"  

 

She touches my hair and starts laughing. "Ha ha ha, it's really soft, just like ours. 

That is also something we need to cut, I wonder what else we have in common! So..maybe...tomorrow?"

 

"Eh...sure. But I thought your hair was just that short. I mean, everyone has the same short hair on their heads, don't they?"

 

"But of course we do! It is just the way things are! Nobody would even think about growing it as long as you have."

 

"Well sorry about that." Nope, I didn't pout, you are obviously mistaken.

 

"Ha ha ha, I didn't mean it like that. Trust me....tomorrow... it'll be fine."

 

"So....you will make me look like you do?"

 

"Why? You don't like it?"

 

"Honestly? You would look amazing with shoulder length hair. Maybe some little decorations in your hair."

 

"Really? That's just silly!"

 

"I beg to differ. Wait until you see what's possible. Trust me, women on Earth don't all have the same haircut. Everyone just wants to look their best. Who knows....perhaps someone will find you more than just a little bit interesting. Maybe a lover...." 

 

"Eh...eh...I don't know what to say."  I think she's blushing, pity I can't really recognize that on her face yet.

 

"Just join me for a new haircut, and let it grow. You won't regret it." I'm trying to convince her to grow her hair. Let's start a revolution together!

 

"Alright then! Tomorrow, you and I!"

 

"I'm already looking forward to that, mom."

 

"Awwww. I don't know what it is...but it feels great having a little one."

 

"Aine, I'm taller than you..."

 

"Ha ha ha, true. You know what I meant." She rolled her eyes, and gave me a head pat.

 

"I do. It's even a custom for moms and their daughters to go shopping together. You know, like a haircut together. Or visit a nail salon. Just having a fun day together now and then."

 

"So this joyful feeling of planning events together is natural then? I guess we still have a lot to learn. You never stop to amaze me," Aine said while lost in thought, trying to visualize a life with a daughter of her own. 

 

These poor people have been Hive-focused all their lives. Now they can find their own way in life, as long as it doesn't interfere with their roles.

 

"Ha ha ha. Good! Then let's visit the General. He's probably waiting for us now."

 

"Not us, waiting for you." Aine is teasing me again.

 

"moooom.....duh.."

 

"Wha...what's that supposed to mean?"

 

"Don't worry...you'll understand soon enough."

 

"<sigh> The little workers these days sure are strange."

 

"Ha ha ha, that's just what my mom would say. See! You are already learning! Now let's move!"

[ Visiting the General and Commander ] 

I follow Aine into the General's office and see that the Commander is there as well.

 

"Good morning, General Ekir, Commander Spinak. Nice to see you both again." I switched to Queen-mode...keeping up appearances is important for a Queen, you know?

 

Both of them bow to me and I return the bow. I know, I know, a Queen shouldn't have to bow, but blame it on my Japanese genes if you must.

 

"Good morning Queen Akari. Please, have a seat." The General points to a square seat, those annoying ones without backrests. I really need to do something about those, but not today.

He also motions Aine to take a seat.

 

"Thank you, General." I sit down and Aine takes a seat further away, clearly showing us that she isn't part of this discussion. "Did you contact our Empress already, about the reasons why we are having this meeting?"

 

"Yes, as a matter of fact I did. You don't seem surprised?"

 

"I don't blame you for that, General, it's your job to liaise with the Empress. I take it that she approves?"

 

"Indeed. She told me to fully cooperate, as long as it only relates to this particular Hive."

 

"Excellent news. And Commander, thank you for being here as well. I know you have other matters to attend to, but I would appreciate your input. If you should disagree with any of my proposals, or have other suggestions, by all means do let me know. I'm not here to just order you around. Same for the General of course."

 

"Yes, Queen Akari." The Commander politely said.

 

"Ah, and before I forget, PLEASE just call me Akari and stop the formal stuff, alright?"

 

"But..." the General seems to have difficulties with this part already, but the Commander comes to the rescue.

 

"Of course Akari, now what are your plans for our Hive?"  The Commander says, ignoring the General's confused face for being interrupted.

 

"Straight to business, I like that. Alright then. You know that our homeworld has recently been under attack?"

 

Both of them nod, of course they would know. 

 

"I believe that we shouldn't retaliate at once, but first strengthen our defenses. Our Empress agrees with that sentiment. So here's what I propose."

 

The General and Commander both seem to anxiously wait for what's to come. 

"I noticed that our interceptors have cargo doors, making them perfect for carrying torpedoes."

 

"Torpedos? What are they?" The Commander asked. The General seems to patiently wait until I'm finished before asking questions. 

 

"They are medium to long range weapons. They are long objects, a bit longer than this..."  I open my arms wide to show them their size, "...and they carry high explosive charges. The moment they touch an object, they detonate."

 

"Oh we know about those too, we call them missiles. But they are now obsolete, replaced by our railguns." The Commander replied.

 

"Okay, let's call them missiles then. I plan to have three types of missiles, one with extremely high yield warheads, if possible even nuclear."  

 

The Commander nods. "Akari, before you continue, we won't be able to produce more than 30 a month.

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"I see....less than I had hoped, but, thank you. Then I want conventional warheads, high yield, but not nuclear. Then I want your people to develop a warhead with a biotoxin that will wipe out the Kakross. Those will be released into our enemy's atmosphere."

 

The Commander keeps nodding.

 

"Excuse me...are you seriously planning to wipe out the whole Kakross species? You do know that's genocide, right?" The Commander said with a serious expression.

 

"Yes, Commander, those are my and your orders, given by our Empress. She wants us to strike them, strike them hard and as soon as possible. But she also wants to have sufficient defenses here above our own world. In any case, we won't strike without the Empress's approval." I said. I don't like it either, but this is about survival.

 

"I see. I will obey her commands." The Commander said matter of factly. "But how do you plan to get close to them? They probably have an entire armada waiting in hiding for us. It's a trap, I know it!"

 

"And you would be correct, Commander. I have the exact same view on that. And that's why we are going for a stealth assault."

 

"A...stealth assault?"  The General doesn't seem familiar with the concept. I thought I had already explained it? Luckily the Commander helps me.

 

"We have developed a coating that will slightly hinder the enemy's sensors, so we can approach them without getting noticed. At least until they come into visual range."

 

I nod at the Commander, then focus on the General.

"It is my suggestion to send one of our newly coated NavScan units close to the enemy. They will start scanning with active sensors, drawing only some attention from them. They will relay the exact position of multiple targets to our fleet right here at home. 

 

Once we have a perfect lock on their homeworld, one of our escorts will open a hyperspace window to their homeworld, but won't make the jump. Instead, we will fire 10 missiles with a biotoxin warhead directly into their atmosphere. Each single missile will suffice to eradicate all life on the planet. The more, the better and faster things go for us. 

 

The next part has to be executed immediately after the first assault, timing is critical.

Our scans have detected two huge defensive turrets in orbit. I'm sure they are more than capable of wiping us out in an instant. So we will have to deal with those next. I assume that they are equipped with powerful shield emitters. Our NavScan unit will send the exact coordinates of both targets to 2 of our escorts...also from right here above our home world. The escorts will then fire 15 missiles each with nuclear warheads using the same hyperspace jump technique."

 

"Yes Akari. I understand. But...."  The Commander said, but I interrupted him.

 

"I want to play it safe here, so I assume that our first strike on those turrets only disabled their shields, or at least reduced them considerably. 

 

We will launch 2 remote controlled escort vessels with the best shield emitters we have. Even if they exit hyperspace close to their targets...they will still be under heavy fire, so that's why they are also structurally reinforced on their front to allow them to impact a target, and only detonate once their hulls make contact with theirs. The escorts will be filled with whatever explosives the Commander has left. The more, the better."

 

"Interesting Akari, but that won't work. May I explain?" The Commander asked.

 

"Ookay...yes, please explain Commander."  I said. It sounds like a good plan to me?

 

"I had some doubts when you considered nuclear weapons...they are a bit old fashioned. 

We also can't open a hyperspace window to their planet and fire our missiles from here....it just won't work. Each missile would have to accompany an escort or even an interceptor. Just firing the missiles themselves will cause them to drop out of hyperspace shortly after entering the window.

 

But you do have one tactic which we could adapt to our technology. 

The use of a biotoxin as a method of attack won't work. That method takes too much time to become effective, giving the enemy time to come to us. Instead I propose to only launch the escorts. They will be packed with antimatter explosives. One will be sent to the turrets, the other will try to take out most of the hives." 

 

"You...yeah...I have absolutely no idea what effect those will have, but if you believe it will pack a punch, then by all means do so." I said. I completely forgot about that. They are a bit more advanced than Earth, even though you don't see that when you are in their Hives...they look pretty basic.

 

"And what about the remaining targets? They will be on full alert by now. I'm sure that they will be coming our way." The Commander seems to be visualizing what I just said. The General keeps quiet, I'm not sure what his comments will be.

 

"Simple, we can't reach those from here because by now they will be repositioning themselves away from their homeworld. Indeed, probably ready to jump here. And that's what we need to avoid at all costs. So immediately after the NavScan unit confirms that the two escorts have detonated, we will launch wave1 to their homeworld. They will focus on the large targets. Wave 2 will jump minutes after them and take out whatever is still alive.

 

Both waves have the same setup...mostly interceptors with each 3 high yield explosives and at least an escort vessel. I have no idea how many you can spare. I don't want our home here to become vulnerable."

 

"300 interceptors and 2 escorts in each wave is not an issue. The problem is the number of missiles. We can't manufacture more than 30 a month."

 

"And what if you combined all the resources of our fleet?" I asked.

 

"It...might work. But Akari, please don't forget the time needed to travel from here to their homeworld. While our waves are traveling there, theirs are already en route to us. So we have to launch directly after our initial attack."

 

The General stands up and slowly walks towards the entrance. The Commander and I looked surprised at him and waited for a reply.

 

"It's too complicated. Too many variables. And it....might be too dangerous." The General has a serious expression now.

 

"General, if you have any other..." I tried to ask for feedback, but the General already replied.

 

"Let me summarize what we have so far. We won't use a biological attack in their atmosphere, because that will cause mass panic and most likely an immediate retaliation. Even if they don't know exactly who or even what hit them. 

So instead we detonate two escorts with antimatter, blowing up most of their fleet. 

But our ship's hull markings will point them to our front door. Right here." The general pointed downwards. Yep...that's right here. 

"And then two separate waves focus on the big targets first and then fire at everything else. Correct so far?" We both nod. Then he continues.

 

"You both seem to forget that a planet doesn't have a front side....their ships will also be positioned on the other side of the planet. Perhaps we could launch 4 remote-controlled explosive escorts...each from different angles at the same time. But their coordinates would be the planet itself. That would really pack a punch as you said."

 

"Eh....you want to blow up the planet itself.....right from the start? My god...that's...that's...brilliant" I said. My god, I didn't think that the General was capable of something like that. But now that I think about it.....should we even do this? 

"But....isn't that overkill? Why not just focus on their fleet?" I think it is brilliant, but destroying the planet in the process? That's beyond genocide! Is there even a word for that?

 

"Akari, I understand. But you know that I contacted our Empress. And she was very clear. 

She told us to go for maximum results with minimum risk and loss. I believe that she won't settle for anything else. She also told me that you would likely object to these kinds of extreme measures. 

You look surprised?"

 

"Of course I am. I just...only now start to see the bigger picture. This is no game.....we are actually wiping out an entire civilization."

 

"Akari, if you are truly one of us...."  the General tries to take advantage of my emotions..and it works.

 

I interrupted him while I jumped to my feet. "Of course I am!" I shout and glare at him.

 

He smiles and says "then you will trust our Empress who will have the final say in the matter. 

If it helps you sleep better at night....the Empress knows that you are not used to these kinds of.... disturbing decisions...yet. She made it quite clear that this would be her burden to carry. So don't take it personally, but you and us will all follow the Empress's demands. Whether we like it or not. Our goal is to present options to her...nothing more...nothing less."

 

I sat down again.

"<sigh> I see...General. The Empress...knows me well. I will leave it up to you and the Empress."

 

"Thank you, Akari. If the Empress approves, this will also keep our defenses here in case those enemy Hives survive. I still assume that most Hives will simply blow up due to the planet's destruction." 

 

"I guess we don't know until we see it. What about you, Commander?" I said.

 

"I like the idea, it has never been done before...blowing up a planet. I suggest that we still launch about 100 fighters after our initial attack. They can target their remaining Hives, if any. When they are allowed to leave their homeworld, they might consolidate their attack in the near future." The Commander said.

 

"Good point, Commander. How about equipping Wave1 with high yield missiles and focus only on the big targets? They will drop out of hyperspace just before Kakross space and get an update from the NavScan units. Then, they jump in the warzone and after launching their missiles, they jump out of there." The General said.

 

"That sounds like a plan. But I still recommend Wave2 for support." the Commander said.

 

"Alright, I will discuss this with our Empress as we need the collective resources to pull this off.

Any other thoughts on the matter, Akari?" the General said with a smug smile.

 

"Yes, I have. We need some protection for our NavScan unit, or better multiple NavScan units. They are our weakest link here."

 

"Good point. We will take that into account. Anything else?"

 

"Yes, I don't know how efficient the scanning equipment in our NavScan units is. They are after all only modified Scouts. On Earth these units are equipped with a large, rotating sensor-disc on top of the..eh...scout. That increases their sensor range considerably." 

 

"A rotating...disc? Interesting. I promise to have our specialists run a few tests. The new coating also needs to undergo a few more tests before I put my faith in those. Anything else?"

 

"Well.....we still need a way to defend ourselves if the Kakross return the favor and jump to us for a massive assault. Can we prevent them from jumping in too close to our homeworld?" I asked.

 

"Mmm.....interesting thought, but we don't have any tactics for that. I will try to get some answers. Anything else?"

 

"No, General. But I do have other topics to discuss."

"Alright, let's hear it." The General seems primed for action now!

 

"Okay, now a simple question for you both. I was wondering while discussing topics in the flight simulator. Are our communications protected by an encryption sequence?"

 

"If you mean...unable for the enemy to monitor, then yes. We use the latest methods and keep changing codes every day. Does that answer your question?"

 

"Yes, it does. How sure are you that they can't decode our communications?"

 

"Very sure. You can never be completely sure, but we are sure that our communications are restricted to our own Hive members."

 

"Okay, I won't doubt you then. I was just worried. Sometimes an outside perspective can find weaknesses in one's strategies. That's my only purpose here. 

 

So, next topic. I propose changing how we communicate inside this Hive. I don't want to use messengers for communications anymore. They should only be used if our on-board communications are offline for whatever reason."

 

"Alright, we can do that. Our previous Queen, our new Empress, believes that holding on to traditions reminds us of where we came from. But I see your point, it would increase response times."

 

"Exactly my point. So please switch to on-board comm systems immediately. And in order to effectively communicate, I don't want to address people here as workers who work on engines.

Or workers responsible for communications. I want to give all major departments a proper name and uniform. Communication between departments should be standardized and as concise as possible. 

So please start training people in using predetermined sentences to effectively communicate."

 

"Interesting. You do have a point. Hives have always functioned by using the Queen as the center of communications. Every worker reports to her. The Queen then decides what action to take. That excludes the most common, mundane, routine tasks of course. You now propose that...departments as you call them....contact each other directly?"

 

"Exactly my point, General! We can still provide the Queen with relevant status updates of course. But all routine actions can and should be taken care of by the respective departments at once. That will increase our overall response times considerably."

 

"True. But you are taking the authority from the Queen. It's her Hive after all."

 

"Yes, Commander, but only the routine tasks. Anything out of the ordinary will still require the Queen's approval. The point is to free some of the Queen's time and allocate that to long term Hive development. The Queen should visit other departments and care for her workers, listen to their ideas, not just sit on the throne all day listening to mundane issues."

 

"Interesting, albeit a bit..rude. And how would you like to call these departments precisely?"

 

"Rude? Change is always difficult, and I'm glad you asked, General. Please remember, this is just my proposal. It's just a starting point. You both are free to make changes. As long as the idea for a well-organized hierarchy stands. Oh, I suggest you write them down, so you can change them to suit the Hive's needs."

 

I then explained how I would personally name each department. Think about Engineering, Waste Management, Weapons etc.

 

I proposed to name the remote-controlled escorts "Hivebusters." 

They are just flying bombs in our scenario, but can also be -theoretically- used to fly through an enemy Hive due to their extra shielding and structural inforcement. I guess they need to think about my wild ideas for a while.

 

"You sure thought this through, haven't you?" the General said. The Commander seems a bit worried too. Too many changes? 

 

"Yes, and I want you to implement these standardizations as soon as possible. Choose your own names and uniform colors if you want, as long as you get the general idea."

 

"I do get it. Alright, I can see the benefit of this. It will take some time for our people to get used to this, though."  

 

"Yes, General, but I believe it is necessary. We need a firm hierarchy. I'd rather see that you take your time with this, than to find a mess in this Hive tomorrow. You decide how to proceed. As long as we get a better organization."

 

"Alright, I will take your general idea of this, and modify it to suit our Hive. I believe it will be what you expect. I'm sure the Empress will approve as well."

 

"Very good. I trust you to take care of the matter, General," I said. Seems like things are going to change around here soon.

 

"I will. Any other thoughts? Maybe paint our hull in another color?"

 

"General...you DO have a sense of humor! Please, I only want to help improve things around here. And only with your guidance."

 

"Akari...relax. I was just joking. No need to worry. Anything else?" The General was snickering. Yep, I fell for it.

 

"Well...there's only..." But I was interrupted. 

 

It's...Mari, the nurse who works with Riki.

"Excuse me. Sorry to interrupt." Mari says, afraid to interrupt us.

 

"What's wrong, Mari?" I already assume that something is wrong.

 

"Would you....would you please come here for a moment, Queen Akari?" She looks at me and motions me to walk towards her.

 

"Eh, sure. Excuse me General, Commander." 

 

They both nod.

 

"What is it, Mari?"

 

She whispers to me.

"I apologize for the interruption, but you may have forgotten time. As you are responsible for our Queen Miwa...you need to feed her soon. Please finish your meeting." She gives me an apologetic look.

 

"Really? It's time already? Alright, I'll be there in a moment. But....how did you know where to find me?"

 

"Simple, we have internal sensors. I just asked the computer." Mari nods, bows and quickly leaves.

 

Oookay....silly me, of course they have sensors. It just LOOKS like a stone age design.
"I'm sorry, but I need to attend to our new Queen."

 

"Oh, she has hatched already? What's her name?" The General is interested as this involves a Queen. But the Commander seems to be interested as well.

 

"Yes, she hatched this morning. Her name is Miwa."

 

"Interesting name....working together peacefully....Miwa."  The General replied.

 

Eh....whatever. Sounds about right. 

 

"But before you leave, what did you want to discuss? Maybe continue later?" The Commander reminded me of my next topic.

 

"Ah right, thank you for reminding me. It's about allowing male and female workers to form a bond and..eh...create offspring."

 

"Eh....what?" Both the Commander and the General said.

 

"You...you didn't know the Empress approved my plan? Workers may form a bond now."

 

"I don't think we are the right people for this topic, right Commander?" The General said.

 

"No, no, you're absolutely right, General. And I need to prepare a mission."

 

"Alright, alright, I understand. I shall take my leave and find others to ask. Thank you both for your help. And General...if you need to discuss anything, you know where to find me."

 

"Yes, Akari."

 

Both of them left the room pretty quickly. Does the General know that this is actually his office? 

Shouldn't I be the one to leave? Whatever...men and talking about offspring.....eh kids I mean.

I quickly walked to the nursery and found Aine there, cuddling little Miwa. I took over from her and fed the little one. Riki told me that Miwa already seems to recognize my face after which Mari showered me with compliments for taking so much care of Miwa. 

 

Well, it's just for a few more weeks or a month I guess. Miwa will grow up super fast, so just a bit longer. I just hope she'll appreciate the waffles soon.

 

After my visit to the nursery, Aine and I returned to our alcove where I insisted on eating the old fashioned way. I was strong and resisted Aine's puppy eyes.....the waffles were amazing!

And no...I don't feel guilty about ignoring her at all. Even the Empress understands that I have the right.......    Oh whatever, yes I feel guilty. I give up. At least it worked this time.

 

Aine and I then walked to a nearby medical bay, where Aine made an appointment for me...to discuss...   oh my god I'm actually going to say it  .... bee-mating rituals. 

[ The birds and the bees ] 

We arrive at the medical bay and a female doctor approaches us. 

"Queen Akari and Aine, welcome, please follow me. I am doctor Chiva and I.... excuse me, what's so funny?"

 

"Oh, please forgive me. The translation made your name sound like doctor Chivago."

 

The doctor ignores my reply and simply leads us into a rather cozy office, barely enough room for us to sit in. 

 

"Ah of course you need to use the translator, I completely forgot. That's why you want to discuss this with me. That doctor you mentioned....she must be a well known doctor in your ancestral Hive, yes?" 

 

Ancestral Hive? What? Ookay...just play along.

"Eh, yes, a very famous one, they even made an...eh.. entertainment show about it. Just never mind it."  Just ignore me...I really should show them some more  respect....laughing during an introduction is hardly civilized. 

 

"Right, then please sit down. I heard that the Empress has allowed our Hive to introduce the old ways again. I must say, I'm actually looking forward to mating." She smiled a careless smile, as if this is just the most common topic to talk about.

 

"<pfffff> <cough>   excuse me <cough>"  Oh god, she has no shame. Is my face red? Yes, very!

 

"Are you alright, Queen Akari?" The doctor is worried. She glanced at her tools for a moment, ready to grab something to help me.

 

"Yes, sorry. I'm not used to these kinds of discussions. It's not considered a topic suitable for public discussion back home. Ah, and please call me Akari, just drop the Queen part."

 

The doctor smiles at me and nods.

 

"Yes, I have heard that other species are somewhat....reserved about this, Akari. But it's perfectly natural. I guess you want to learn how this process works, yes?"

 

Oh my god. "Well, doctor, I am actually......what the heck...yes, I want to know." The doctor keeps smiling in such a way that it makes me feel uncomfortable. "But I mostly want every person onboard this Hive to learn about this. Then teach them how to attract a..eh...mate for life."

 

"Interesting. Akari, you must think that having a Queen prevents us from understanding our bodies. Let me tell you that everyone in this Hive instinctively knows how the mating process works. That's why I said I was looking forward to it, as it was a taboo until recently. Thank you for letting us experience this, Akari."

 

So she knows I am the one who asked our Empress for permission...

"Eh....you are welcome, doctor. So....the Empress wants people who are willing to eh..mate...form a pair. Preferably for life. They should however keep respecting the Queen and put their duties first. 

How are we going to inform everyone that it is alright to form pairs? And let's not forget that some people might need some...eh..advice perhaps?"  Oh my god, how the heck am I going to pull this off?

 

"Please, Akari, there is no need to feel embarrassed, right Aine?"

 

"No, of course not. But Akari is still new to most of our ways, so I can relate to that."

 

"Thank you Aine, that's very kind of you to say."  I said.

 

"Akari, don't you worry a bit. As medical staff in this Hive, we are uniquely qualified to spread the word. We will gladly take care of this topic, so you can focus on other important duties."

 

Really? She's going to help me with this?  "Doctor Chiva, thank you soooo much!" I bow to her.

 

"Akari, please don't bow to me. You are a Queen. But I still appreciate the gesture." 

 

Ah crap, those are my Japanese customs again. The act of bowing is programmed into my subconscious.

 

The good doctor then took fifteen excruciating long minutes to explain to me the physical processes involved but also the...eh...necessary rituals these people seem to...eh...need.

 

"Akari, is that what you were looking for?"  The doctor just completed her presentation.

 

"Yes, doctor, that was very....interesting to put it mildly. I have the fullest confidence in you. And thank you again for taking this out of my hands. I believe that it is just too sensitive for me to discuss how you people should...eh...live your lives."

 

"Ha ha ha, well put Akari. Is there anything else?"

 

"Well, just one thing that I noticed. I would like you to tell the people you meet that they can...how do I say this? Tell them to wear informal clothes when they are off-duty. Let them express themselves, perhaps let the women use lipstick or something like that."

 

"Lip...stick? Do you expect us to put a stick through our lips? Is that the recent fashion in your ancestral Hive?"

 

"What? No no no....for the love of god....no. It means that women can color their lips if they please. And wear clothes in other colors if they want. Maybe use other decorations in their hair. Or even let their hair grow a bit longer. That's what I meant with self-expression. Oh, as long as it doesn't interfere with their duties, it should be okay."

 

"Ahhh, like that. Alright, I'll see what I can do. Anything else?"

 

"Yeaaaahhhh. About those nodes on top of my head..."

 

"Yes? What about them? They seem normal?" The doctor doesn't understand that it is difficult for me to ask.

 

"Ah, c'mon! Do I really? Doc, what are they for? There, I asked."

 

"You....don't? Ha ha ha.. Oh, you are serious?"  I nodded. "Of course, Akari. They translate pheromones into information, just like ears and eyes do with sound and light. Males have feelers that have otherwise the same purpose. That's all, actually."

 

"Huh? Oh...that's...interesting. Thank you very much for your kind help, doctor."

 

"It was my pleasure to be of service to a Queen. We will organize some demonstrations soon.  And Akari, you can always visit me if you want to review the mating rituals....oh...I'm sorry." 

 

My face is so red by now that it might as well explode. I just bow to her and leave her office at once.

It took a moment for Aine to find me. I was just trying to take deep breaths, this can't be good for me!

 

"Akari...are you alright?" Aine asked.

 

"I...I am now. Sorry, I couldn't stay there anymore."

 

"It is alright, the doctor understands the reason, trust me. She was smiling when you left, I guess she was just teasing you. You are an easy victim, you know that?"

 

"Whaaaaa? Eh...I guess you are right. Okay, let's leave this place and go home."

 

"Home? Akari, thank you."

 

"Huh? For what?"   

 

"For calling our personal alcove home, it means much to me and our people. We already accepted you when the Queen did, but I guess it took you a bit longer."

 

"Ouch that's deep......honestly...I never saw it from your perspective. I'm sorry, it must have seemed..disrespectful?"

 

"Oh no, not at all. Let's just go....home." She smiled and pulled me in for a hug.

 

During our walk home we discussed what I found most interesting about their rituals.

Did you know that males make noise with their wings? And when the female doesn't instantly walk away, they both let their wings touch. Apparently it looks similar to when they would fly away. 

 

They don't go out on dates...tell her she's pretty...nope. It's just like talking about what groceries to buy for tomorrow's dinner. I don't think they even know what romance is. Or perhaps the doctor left out some..details to spare me. If so, then thank you, doc!