Page 347 - Demo

347Anton nodded and went into the chamber. He was immediately stunned. The chamber was of a size that was unlike any he had seen in their entire city nest. He lifted his head and could hardly see where the ceiling was.%u201cCome and stand in front of me.%u201d Two extra-long antennae tapped on his.He looked forward and there she stood. The largest of his species, Anton had ever seen%u2014the queen. He took the long walk to the front of her and stood before her, head bowed, staring at the ground.%u201cLook up at me,%u201d she tapped.He raised his head and saw she was studying him. He remained quiet but concerned she would detect his maleness. Her head came down and he heard her sniffing.%u201cAh! I see. How have you got away with it?%u201d She tapped.%u201cAway with?%u201d He tapped down.She lifted her head and laughed. %u201cCome, come. I realise your secret and it is one that would earn you the death sentence. Is it not?%u201d%u201cYes. I guess it would. Will you do it?%u201d He tapped back.%u201cHuh. What me, kill a hero? If you had not hung onto that worm so bravely, we would all starve this coming day. No. I will not reveal your secret. I knew your great Grandfather. It was he who impregnated me. And you are now quite special to me.%u201d She tapped rapidly.%u201cI%u2019m honoured. May I ask a question?%u201d Anton tapped back.%u201cYes. Why not?%u201d%u201cHow old are you?%u201d Anton tapped.%u201cI am fifteen years old. Half way through my life if I am lucky. Which brings me to a small problem. Are you tasked right now to forage?%u201d%u201cNo. They are still dividing up the worm.%u201dWar