The Eccentric Entomologist is Now a Queen’s Consort

<For now, we should monitor her behavior closely. If there are any signs of distress or rejection of the relay, we may need to intervene. But if this works, Mikhailis, it could pave the way for unprecedented studies in magic and insect evolution. You might actually become a pioneer in this field… even if that field is mainly inhabited by eccentric bug enthusiasts.>

Mikhailis snorted, a gleam of amusement in his eyes.

"You say that like it's a bad thing. I'd rather be a pioneer among bugs than just another noble playing power games. Besides, these little ones are gonna make history. I can feel it."

He turned back to the aquarium, watching as the queen resumed her place among her workers and soldiers. She moved with confidence, her wings folding down as she settled, and the other ants resumed their duties. The queen's presence was undeniably regal now—there was a sense of power about her that hadn't been there before. Her size, her gleam, the faint pulse of magic that even Mikhailis could feel—it all hinted at something remarkable.

His eyes drifted to the four large eggs again. What kind of creatures would hatch from those? What sort of abilities would they have? His excitement only grew at the thought of magical chimera ants that could possess abilities far beyond what nature intended. He imagined them with traits from the frogs—jumping great distances, blending into their surroundings, or even exuding a magical aura that would make them truly formidable.

"So, Rodion," Mikhailis said, his voice laced with anticipation.

"what do you think we should name these variant babies once they hatch? I mean, we can't just call them Ant A, B, C, and D."

<You want to name them? Why am I not surprised? Fine, but let's not forget that these aren't pets—they're experimental subjects. Though if I were to suggest, perhaps something like 'Subject Alpha' or 'Variant One' might suit your fancy?>

Mikhailis shook his head, chuckling.

"Nah, that's too cold. We're not running a lab here… well, not just a lab. I was thinking more along the lines of something fitting their potential. Like... Spark, for the one that might inherit magical properties, or Ribbit for the frog one—assuming we get one that leaps like crazy."

<Of course. Spark and Ribbit. Because nothing says scientific discovery like childishly endearing names.>

"Hey, hey, don't knock it until you see them in action." Mikhailis leaned closer, his gaze fixed on the eggs.

"The thing is, we've already made it this far, right? Who knows, maybe we're creating the first real ant army this world has ever seen. Imagine that, Rodion—ants that can take on magical threats, ants that can become allies to us, a network of insects that can do more than just forage."

Rodion remained silent for a moment, then responded with an uncharacteristic tone of almost genuine consideration.

<I will admit, the concept holds merit—provided it doesn't end in disaster. Should your ambitions for a 'magical ant army' succeed, it could significantly impact our position in Eldoria. It's a resource no one would see coming. However, I would advise restraint. The unpredictable nature of their evolution and magical adaptation poses risks—both to you and the others here.>

Mikhailis's smile softened, his eyes gaining a depth of understanding that was rare for him. He rested his gaze on the queen and her workers, watching the delicate choreography of their movements.

"Yeah, I get it. There's always a risk. But honestly, if I wanted a safe, boring life, I wouldn't be here, right?" He turned his head, looking at the moonlight that filtered through the windows.

"Back in Ruslania, everything was too… ordinary. I was drowning in normality. But here? Here, there's magic, and wonder, and so much potential. And I intend to explore all of it, even if it means taking a few risks."

Rodion responded after a beat, his voice almost resigned.

<Well, then. If we're going to delve into this madness, I suppose I'm along for the ride. Just remember, Mikhailis—I'm here to provide caution. Don't ignore it.>

Mikhailis nodded, a serious edge creeping into his voice.

"I know, Rodion. That's why I keep you around. Without you, I'd be in trouble ten times over. But hey, you gotta admit, sometimes my gut instinct has its moments."

<True. Though, statistically, I would suggest we continue to rely on calculated decision-making rather than reckless gut feelings.>

Mikhailis laughed.

"Fair enough. Alright, let's keep monitoring our queen and her brood. I want detailed reports on those eggs—every movement, every shift, every sign of magic. This is just the beginning."

He gave one last look to the queen, who was now nestled near the four eggs, almost protectively. Her wings twitched slightly, and the bond on his palm pulsed softly. It wasn't just a scientific connection—it felt more like a partnership, a sense of loyalty that went beyond mere control.

"Rest well, my queen," Mikhailis whispered softly, almost as if he were talking to a friend.

"We have a lot of work to do."

He stepped back from the aquarium, closing the lid carefully before adjusting the dim lights of the room. The mechanical arm, which had installed the chip on the queen, retracted smoothly, blending into the side of the aquarium until it was no longer visible. Everything returned to an ordinary state, despite the extraordinary nature of what lay inside.

Mikhailis turned away, looking around his study, which was cluttered with books, tools, and half-finished contraptions—evidence of his curious nature and constant tinkering. He grabbed his notebook from a nearby table, flipping it open and scribbling down some quick notes.

He wrote about the queen's growth, the signs of magic that were now present, the new bond that felt stronger, more meaningful. He noted the way the worker and soldier ants responded to his commands, the new variants that were soon to hatch, and the process of implanting the chip.

"This could change everything," he murmured, his pen scratching across the paper.

"not just for me, but for Elowen and the kingdom too. An ally in the shadows, ants that can see everything, collect information, and maybe even defend us if it comes to that."

He finished his note, a small smile tugging at his lips. He flipped the notebook shut, placing it back on the table, then stretched his arms with a satisfied sigh. It had been a long day, but a productive one. He had a good feeling about this—like he was on the brink of something revolutionary.

Rodion's voice broke the silence.

<Shall I prepare the surveillance monitoring system for integration with your primary setup, Mikhailis?>

"Yeah, do that. I want every detail from the queen. Let's make sure our little experiment stays on track."

<Understood. Establishing data links. And, Mikhailis?>

"Yeah?"

<Despite your penchant for chaos, I must admit, today was... rather remarkable.>

Mikhailis blinked in surprise, then grinned, his expression softening. "Aw, Rodion, are you growing fond of my chaos?"

<I will refrain from answering that. I am, however, adapting to your... eccentric methods.>

Mikhailis laughed, turning towards the window, where the moonlight bathed the study in a gentle glow.

"You better get used to it, buddy. We've got a lot more of it coming."

He gazed out into the night, his mind filled with possibilities, his excitement renewed. He was on an adventure, an unpredictable, dangerous adventure—one that involved magic, ants, and perhaps changing the course of Eldoria itself.

And as long as he had his trusty AI, his beloved queen, and his new army of magical insects by his side, Mikhailis was ready for whatever came next.