[Chapter 13]

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  The enormous doors to Zesza's chambers swung open as a girl who was the spitting image of Zesza fluttered into the room. She could have been a glimpse into Zesza's past, if KiAera had known her in her youth decades ago—and if Zesza were not a wasp imitating the human shape.

  Golden locks with black stripes flowed down the girl's back, and four green eyes glimmered with eagerness and pride. Her outfit was an adorable yet regal dress that gave KiAera the impression of a bumblebee, and the girl's skirt puffed outward like a flower ready to bloom.

  KiAera quickly recognized the girl as Liozel and Denji's friend. Behind her, Gilbud and Liozel entered hesitantly.

  "Have the discussions finished?" Liozel peeked through the doorframe.

  "Who knows? But I do have a request for my mother," the girl replied. "Mother!" she exclaimed. "I heard you talking about the ManaNet! You finally decided to listen to the Chimeron Chief?!"

  Zesza's stern facade cracked for a moment, and KiAera could see a flicker of maternal pride behind her fierce demeanor. "Yes, Veszinah, I am in the process of negotiations," she replied, keeping her tone measured. "You should be more cautious about eavesdropping."

  Veszinah waved her hand dismissively, her antennae twitching with excitement. "Oh! I only wanted to understand what you were planning!"

  The girl gave KiAera a pleading look before looking up at her mother. "The other princesses and I have been discussing the ManaNet and how it could help the hive. But most importantly, I want to visit the Chimeron Sanctum again! If my eldest brother Wazeke can live among the common—" she cleared her throat and then glanced at Liozel with flushed cheeks, "the esteemed warriors of the Chimeron Crew, then it should be fine for me to join him, right?"

  Liozel's expression turned puzzled as he stepped closer to Veszinah. "You were serious about visiting again, Ves? Well… that could be a problem since there are dangerous forces at play right now. Your mother is right to be cautious."

  "Yeah, that's quite true, Lio," Veszinah nodded. "And that danger is my brother's dearest father, yes, Mother?" The girl glanced at her mother, and KiAera acknowledged how sharp the princess was for her age; she clearly understood the implications of the conversation unfolding before them. Either the Royal Vesperian education was far more brutal and advanced than KiAera had assumed, or Veszinah was simply remarkably perceptive for her years. Perhaps the stinger's sharpness did not forge dull in Zesza's lineage. True, Wazeke may have been the stereotypical partygoer prince, but it seemed he had inherited more than just charm from his mother.

  Zesza's expression darkened, and KiAera wondered if a sliver of tension would spark in the air. "You should focus on your studies, Veszinah, not on dangerous affairs beyond your understanding. There are enough threats around the hive without you seeking out more." She glanced briefly at KiAera, an implicit reminder of the stakes they were discussing.

  "But isn't it our duty to be part of that world?" Veszinah challenged, her voice resolute. "If Wazeke becomes a leader, we must learn to navigate it together. Mother, you always say that ignoring our responsibilities is weaker than facing them head-on."

  "I may have said that, but you are still young, and this world is more dangerous than a simple game of alliance and power," Zesza replied, her tone softening slightly. "Your pragmatism is commendable, but you cannot simply waltz into the fray without understanding the nuances at play."

  "I get that," Liozel commented, and he grinned one of his beloved smiles. "But is it exploitation if we work together? The unity that comes from understanding each other is what gives us strength, yeah! Besides, if we could prepare Ves for the dangers while allowing her to gain practical wisdom, perhaps it would bolster your position, Mrs. Zesza... as well as hers."

  Woah. KiAera forced herself to suppress the smile that crept on her lips. Liozel appeared to have been listening more intently than she had realized. His unexpected eloquence and conviction bolstered the argument in favor of integrating the younger generation into discussions on alliances, even amid the rising tensions.

  Veszinah grinned brightly at Liozel's encouragement. "See? Lio gets it!" She turned back to Zesza, steadfast. "What if I train alongside Wazeke and the Chimeron Crew? I could learn how to defend myself and understand our allies better—"

  "Training? With my son?" Zesza interjected sharply, then laughed haughtily in agitation. "There's a reason Hive Kings existences are quite rare—you may be incapable of keeping up with his fighting abilities! And your brother's father, Lord Yzarluzz III, is a threat we cannot underestimate! For now, it is crucial that you and your sisters remain safe within the hive's protective walls. My first priority is your safety."

  "True, but isn't it also about preparing them for the future?" Liozel countered, undeterred. "If Veszinah understands the challenges she may face, she'll be better able to step up when her time comes, and maybe even prevent the spread of fear where you see none."

  Zesza cast a skeptical glance at the boy, her wings fidgeting in irritation. "You think you know better, Liozel? You may have the heart to protect your friends, but it is my duty to ensure the safety of my hive first and foremost."

  "But, Mother, I want to be more than just a princess sitting in the background!" Veszinah argued. "I want to be strong like you! I want to help our hive and understand how to protect it. That's why I want to visit the Chimeron Sanctum—to learn from great warriors like KiAera, her Chimeron Captains, and Wazeke! I promise I'll be careful!"

  KiAera watched the exchange with intrigue, appreciating the way Zesza and her daughter engaged with one another. She cleared her throat to interject, sensing an opportunity. "Zesza, you have a point, but perhaps there lies value in giving Veszinah actual experience. You could still guide her while she learns. If she is to become a part of this world, then she must understand its realities first-hand."

  Veszinah's eyes lit up at KiAera's words. "See, Mother? Even the Chimeron Chief agrees! I would be careful! I can learn so much, and I promise to remain vigilant. Besides, I want to be part of this coalition you're forming. I want to help my people in any way I can!"

  Zesza regarded her daughter with an unreadable expression, contemplating the sincerity in her plea. After a moment, the queen sighed. "If you are to accompany your brother, you must promise to stay close to him and follow his lead. The moment I sense you are in danger, I will call for you to return, and you will obey without question."

  Veszinah practically bounced on her toes with joy. "I promise, Mother! I won't let you down!" She then turned to Liozel and added, "You will keep me safe too, right? I know you’re strong and brave, just like my brother!"

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  Liozel's stern facade cracked just a fraction, and he nodded. "Of course, Veszinah. I'll do everything I can to protect you while you're with us!" Veszinah giggled in response, turning her head away from the boy.

  The relationship between Liozel and Veszinah intrigued KiAera. Was this some sort of childhood crush that Veszinah had on Liozel? The innocent enthusiasm of a young girl flirting with the idea of adventure and camaraderie was charming, but KiAera couldn't shake the feeling that something deeper was brewing beneath the surface.

  Hopefully, this wasn't a parasitic wasp scheme in which Queen Zesza and Veszinah were secretly plotting toward wedding her little brother to the princess. The mere thought made her smile falter for a moment. Queen Zesza would use any means necessary to acquire a foothold in others' empires, and Liozel was highly likely to inherit the Chimeron Sanctum after KiAera stepped down from leadership and governance altogether. She decided to remain an observer for now, allowing the dynamics between the children to unfold while focusing on the larger issue at hand.

  Zesza arched an eyebrow, the slightest smile creeping onto her lips. "Very well, but know that this is a privilege, not a right. I expect you to take this opportunity seriously." She turned away for a moment, her wings fluttering as if she were shaking off anxiety. "But if this venture is to succeed, you must also learn to respect your allies and understand the weight of their burdens."

  Veszinah nodded vigorously. "I will! I promise!" Her enthusiasm was infectious, and KiAera couldn't help but smile at the girl's unwavering spirit.

  "And Monuzica will be joining you, as your guard, Veszinah," Zesza added with a chilling grin.

  KiAera winced alongside Veszinah at the mention of Monuzica's name. The towering female guardian was known throughout the hives for her relentless focus and no-nonsense demeanor. While the presence of a dedicated protector was admirable, Monuzica's stern reputation made her the last choice for mentorship—or companionship—especially for a spirited child like Veszinah.

  "But… but can't it be someone else? Monuzica is so… intimidating!" Veszinah protested, her excitement dimming momentarily.

  Zesza's pair of eyes narrowed slightly. "She will ensure your safety. Monuzica has trained for centuries to protect the hive and its royalty. And you will learn discipline from her. Do I need to remind you of your position? This is not a vacation; it is a mission."

  Her position? KiAera eyes lidded in curiosity mingling with suspicion.

  "If I must, I suppose I can work with her," Veszinah relented, albeit with clear reluctance. "But I think I'd much rather learn from KiAera and Lady Diantha."

  Ah, she wanted to learn from Jalkra's wife. That would be a boon toward the girl's financial knowledge.

  KiAera chuckled softly, feeling a sense of warmth toward the young princess. "I promise, we'll make your stay at the Chimeron Sanctum as enjoyable as it is enlightening. Our variety of teachers is quite… substantial, much like the species of monsters inhabiting the Chimeron cities."

  KiAera noted how Zesza's gaze softened slightly at the camaraderie blossoming between her daughter and KiAera. Perhaps she had accepted that she had made the right decision in allowing this venture.

  Yet it appeared apprehension still loomed over Zesza's heart like a thick cloud. "Just remember that this world is not as forgiving as you may wish it to be," Zesza said. "If Wazeke is to lead, he needs to be surrounded by those who share his resolve. You must be strong, Veszinah, both in mind and spirit."

  Veszinah nodded, determination shining in her myriad of eyes. "I will, Mother. I'll be the best Queen-to-bee that I can be!"

  Liozel stepped forward once again, his tone earnest. "And Big Sis KiAera, I hope we can help Mr. Wazeke prepare as well. We all have to work together. The stronger we become, the better prepared we'll be for Lorgagore and any other threats!"

  "Agreed," KiAera said, feeling the weight of the moment settle on her shoulders. "The more we share our knowledge and cooperate, the closer we'll come to securing our future." She wanted her words to be as true as possible, but the specter of Lorgagore lingered in her mind like a shadow, reminding her of the insidious threats that crept ever closer to their doorstep.

  Zesza straightened. "Then it is settled," she declared, her voice echoing with undeniable authority. "Veszinah will accompany Wazeke and the Chimeron Crew. The council will convene on the matter of the ManaNet immediately after her departure to your Sanctum."

  Her statement left KiAera with a heavy inquiry ever since she arrived at the hive. "Speaking of Wazeke, where is that darn prince? I haven't seen him since his grandfather's demise." Indeed, Wazeke had assisted in the development of the ManaNet, but that was prior to the showdown between herself and Yzarluzz II. KiAera had a modest idea of where the socialite might be. She hoped he wasn't—

  "He's probably celebrating the elder Yzarluzz's death. Well-deserved, honestly," Zesza replied with a huff. "I've only met the toxic monster that was Wazeke's grandfather a couple of times, but if he were anything like my ex-mate, I can only imagine how unbearable he must have been." Zesza shook her head, a hint of bitterness creeping into her tone.

  KiAera felt the atmosphere shift slightly at the mention of Yzarluzz II. The impact of the late lord's demise was not lost on her; Wazeke's grandfather had been a dangerous adversary, and her only encounter with the damn buzzing conqueror proved that the late wasp emperor must have had a truly poor relationship with Wazeke—if he even acknowledged his grandson's existence in the first place. Wazeke had mentioned multiple times that his own father, the cruel Yzarluzz III, had disowned him for not following in his treacherous lineage and for refusing to torture an entire country of captured civilians when given the honor to prove his worth to his family's legacy. With such a legacy of brutality, it was no wonder that Wazeke had distanced himself from his lineage.

  And intel from KiAera's Chimeron intelligence alongside Wazeke's firsthand account detailed that Wazeke's aunt had her wings torn from her back because of her inadequate performance in eradicating a Wanderan colony, leaving an indelible scar on the prince's psyche. There were also horrific tales of the fates of Wazeke's brothers and sisters from Yzarluzz III's side of the family. Those who survived unscathed are apparently the most ruthless, and Yzarluzz stood at the top as Yzarluzz II's successor, so it made all the more sense that he would revel in the fall of the tyrant. Still, it was troubling that such a loss could be so easily overshadowed by a celebration.

  KiAera glanced at Zesza, who was lost in her thoughts, and then turned back to the group. "He may be celebrating, but I hope it's not reckless abandon. We need him focused now more than ever."

  Zesza shrugged. "It was no wonder he sought solace in revelry. On the contrary, I wanted to attend those parties, but that would have been frowned upon if a queen such as myself were to mingle with the raucous guests of a hive where mourning should be paramount. Instead, I've been focused on strategizing against my ex-mate Yzarluzz and ensuring the safety of our realm." Her expression darkened slightly, as if the mention of celebrations only deepened the rift between her duties and her family life.

  Veszinah piped up, "I can bring big brother back! If I'm going to be a good queen, I need to make sure my brother is safe and ready!"

  Zesza shot her daughter a skeptical glance, "It's not just about bringing him back, Veszinah. Despite how awful a wasperson your brother's grandfather may have been… The relief behind celebrating such a milestone in one's demise can often be more complicated than it seems."

  Veszinah crossed her arms, a pout forming on her face. "But if no one brings him back to the hive, he could end up in trouble if the new Emperor Yzarluzz learns of the ridicule toward his family. I can't let anything happen to Wazeke!"

  KiAera felt an ache in her chest at the mention of Wazeke's name. She too had come to care for the prince, and she could only hope he was taking the necessary precautions in light of Yzarluzz III's ascension. "Perhaps I should reach out to him myself," she offered tentatively. "I had hoped to discuss the ManaNet and his role in legitimizing our cause. If he's caught up in revelry, it could complicate things."

  Zesza nodded slowly, considering the suggestion. "That would be wise. You have the rapport with him that many others lack. Just remind him that while he has every right to celebrate freedom, he cannot forget the responsibilities that come with it."

  "Yo… As if he ever did," Gilbud finally spoke up, a small frown forming on his face. "Wazeke's heart has always been in the right place, but sometimes he lets his impulses take precedence over his duties, yo."

  Veszinah shifted her weight from one foot to the other, a determined glint in her eye. "Then I'll go with you, KiAera! If Wazeke sees us together, maybe he'll realize how important this is. You know, like a little sisterly reminder!"

  "Ves," Zesza started, but her daughter was already pulling on KiAera's arm, eyes pleading.

  KiAera chuckled softly. "You can come along if Zesza gives her consent, but you must listen to what I say." Even she was unsure how Wazeke would react when confronted about going against his father's forces and being advised to ascend to the throne as Emperor.

  Knowing the serene samurai-like prince, surely, he would not react volatility. KiAera would visit his estate at Mount Voltgigan.