X-Men: The Unnatural Omega's Volume 4; Endgames
Chapter 17: Sheep in Wolves Clothing, Wolves in Sheep's Clothing, Part 1
…
In the bustling capital of Paradis, preparations for a grand banquet were underway. Eren and Historia, along with a diligent team, organized the event meticulously, ensuring every detail was perfect. Dignitaries and diplomats from across the world—representing nations from India, the Americas, the Middle-Eastern Alliance, and various European countries—arrived, each being warmly received and checked off the lists. This event symbolized a new era of peace and cooperation, facilitated by Eren's monumental efforts to end the titan curse that plagued Eldians for over two millennia, achieving this monumental task without bloodshed.
Among the esteemed guests were General Magath and Reiner, along with Piek, Falco, and Gabi, their families including Colt, all mingling with various international contacts. The atmosphere was one of celebration and newfound unity, reflecting the world's shifting perspectives towards the Eldians now free from the fear of turning into titans.
Eren, familiarizing himself with the diverse customs of their guests, took extra steps to respect the traditions of the Mid-Eastern representatives by washing himself beforehand—an act that earned appreciative nods from the delegates. Meanwhile, Jean and his partner Mikasa watched over their playful daughter, Mia, a spirited three-year-old with her mother's determination and her father's tactical mind. Mia was happily playing with Eren and Historia's daughter Ymir, who was nearing her fourth birthday, and exuded a curious blend of her parents' strong wills and compassionate natures.
Kruger, the inquisitive son of Eren and Historia, joined the children in their games, his bright eyes and keen sense mirroring his parents' depth of character. He interacted spiritedly with Annie and Armin's twin toddlers, Theo and Lena. Theo, thoughtful and observant, exhibited his father's analytical nature, while Lena, lively and fearless, mirrored her mother's younger, more adventurous spirit.
As the banquet began, more friends and familiar faces joined the celebration. Levi arrived, his face marked by scars but his eyes bright with the softening influence of camaraderie and peace. Reiner commented to Eren how Levi and his mother seemed to be growing closer with each visit, a development that was becoming the subject of gentle teasing among their group.
Levi shared a tender moment with Reiner's mother, her laughter lightening the air around them, creating a moment of warmth that didn't escape the notice of those around them. Guests continued to pour in, including Connie and Floch, and Hange, who had just returned from a challenging diplomatic and humanitarian mission in Jake's world, helping with refugee relief and vaccine distribution.
Finally, the arrival of Laura and Derreck with their children created a stir among the attendees. Orion and Aurora immediately joined the other children, showing off their monolith-like toys that could morph into fantastical shapes. But it was Damien, cradled in Laura's arms, who drew the most attention. His translucent form, swirling with galaxies, asteroids, and cosmic energies, was like a little universe unto himself, his eye sockets alive with an ethereal glow that captivated all who looked his way.
As Laura and Derreck greeted Eren, Historia, Magath, and Reiner, whispers circulated about the legendary couple known for their extraordinary tales and cosmic adventures. Despite the initial shock of seeing Damien's unusual appearance, the hosts quickly embraced the family, welcoming them with the warmth and curiosity that had come to define this new era of openness and understanding.
As the banquet in Shiganshina commenced, the grand hall was filled with the lively chatter and clinking of glasses, signifying the beginning of the feast. The tables were adorned with a variety of dishes, fitting the to the culinary traditions of the many nations now allied in peace. The room buzzed with anticipation and joy as diplomats and heroes alike shared in the celebration of a new era.
At a prominent table, Derreck sat contentedly next to Laura, his plate empty. His unique condition meant that he could not taste food or drink, nor did he require sustenance. Despite this, Derreck was completely at ease, his focus on enjoying the company of his family and engaging in the vibrant conversations around him.
Throughout the dinner, various guests approached Derreck, eager to interact with him and perhaps verify the legendary tales they had heard. One guest, a historian from the Marleyan delegation, was particularly intrigued by one of Derreck's more astounding reputed abilities.
"Mr. Derreck, if I may," the historian began with a respectful tone, capturing the attention of those nearby, "there's a tale among our scholars about your feats. On two occasions, you delivered strikes so powerful that they opened portals in your universe. The first of these strikes is said to have resonated through every world within your reality. Can you confirm if this is true?"
The table quieted, anticipating Derreck's response. He paused, considering his answer, aware of the weight such stories carried.
"Yes, I can confirm that's true," Derreck finally replied, his voice steady and serious. "The impacts of those hits did indeed cause ripples across my universe, affecting multiple realities. It's a capability I exercise with great caution and a deep sense of responsibility."
The historian nodded appreciatively, his eyes reflecting the awe and slight apprehension such a revelation inspired.
Further intrigued, another guest, a young diplomat from the Eastern Alliance, pressed for more details. "It's also said that you've been able to 'punch windows through reality' to teleport to afterlives or retrieve certain items. Could you elaborate on that aspect of your abilities?"
With a slight smile acknowledging the curiosity around the table, Derreck explained, "Yes, that's also accurate. There have been times when I needed to breach the barriers between worlds—not out of a desire for disruption, but out of necessity. Whether it was to rescue allies or secure essential items, each action was taken to protect and preserve balance."
The guests listened, captivated by Derreck's accounts of his extraordinary feats. The way he discussed these actions—so matter-of-fact and understated—underscored the immense power he wielded responsibly.
As the evening wore on, the mood remained light yet thoughtful. Guests continued to mingle, discussing peace, the new roles of Eldians in global politics, and the tales of heroes like Derreck, who despite their near-godlike powers, demonstrated a profound commitment to humanity.
Laura watched Derreck with pride as he navigated the curiosity and admiration of the other guests. Though he couldn't partake in the feast, his fulfillment came from the happiness of his family and the peace that the evening symbolized.
At the grand banquet table, laughter and conversation flowed freely as the dignitaries from across the world mingled and celebrated the new era of peace. Aurora, the young daughter of Derreck and Laura, sat elegantly among the guests, her manners impeccable as she daintily used her fork to enjoy the feast. Suddenly, a jarring sound of metal crumpling echoed slightly above the din of the room, drawing startled looks from those nearby.
As guests turned their attention towards Aurora, they witnessed a curious scene: she continued to eat gracefully, except now, the fork she was using had been bitten clean in half, the broken metal caught between her sharp teeth much like her father's. Unperturbed, Aurora continued to chew the remnants of the fork along with her food, seemingly unaware of the breach in etiquette or the impossibility of her act.
The table fell into a brief silence, marked by wide-eyed stares from the diplomats and other guests who had never witnessed such a display. Their shock was apparent, , a mixture of disbelief and curiosity painting their faces as they tried to comprehend what they had just seen.
Eren Yeager, familiar with the extraordinary nature of Aurora's family, couldn't suppress a grin. "Yep, she's definitely her father's daughter," he commented with a chuckle, breaking the tension around the table. His words seemed to reassure some while intriguing others.
Around the table, some diplomats nervously took sips from their glasses, their minds racing with the implications of what such abilities might mean for their own nations and their world at large. The presence of such a powerful lineage, capable of casual feats that defied the natural order, was both a marvel and a source of unease. Whispers and murmurs began to fill the air as they contemplated the future and the unpredictable impact Derreck's family might have on their global dynamics.
Despite the initial shock, the atmosphere slowly returned to one of festive camaraderie, but with a newfound respect and a hint of wariness towards young Aurora. Her parents, Derreck and Laura, exchanged a knowing look, a mixture of pride and amusement evident in their expressions. They were used to such reactions and took them in stride, confident in their daughter's abilities and her place in the world.
As the banquet continued, the incident became a topic of lively discussion, adding another layer of legend to the already storied legendary family for many.
…
As Derreck, Laura, and their children Orion, Aurora, and little Damien entered the newly inaugurated museum, there was excitement in the air. This wasn't just any museum; it was a testament to the peace and transformation that Eren and Historia had fought so hard to achieve in their world. The building was a modern marvel, combining historical architecture with cutting-edge design, standing as a beacon of the new era on Paradise Island.
The family was warmly greeted by a museum guide who was eager to show them around. The exhibits were meticulously curated, covering the history of the island, the legacy of the titans, and the recent diplomatic victories that had led to lasting peace. As they moved through the displays, Orion and Aurora were captivated, their young minds soaking in every detail. Damien, held securely in Laura's arms, looked around with wide, curious eyes, his gaze following the colorful displays and interactive lights.
One section of the museum was dedicated to the technological advancements used during the time of the titans. It featured interactive models and simulations that allowed visitors to engage directly with the history being presented. Orion and Aurora, both exceptionally bright for their age, interacted with the displays with a maturity beyond their years. They asked smart, thoughtful questions that impressed both the guide and their parents.
One section of the museum was dedicated to the technological advancements used during the time of the titans. It featured interactive models and simulations that allowed visitors to engage directly with the history being presented. Orion and Aurora, both exceptionally bright for their age, interacted with the displays with a maturity beyond their years. They asked smart, thoughtful questions that impressed both the guide and their parents.
After exploring the main exhibits, the family visited the museum's gift shop, which featured a photo studio set up against backdrops of significant historical events. Deciding to capture the moment, Derreck and Laura arranged for a family portrait. Orion and Aurora behaved impeccably, posing with practiced smiles. The photographer captured the moment beautifully, with Damien in Laura's arms, looking directly at the camera, his cosmic energies twinkling slightly in the soft lighting of the shop.
Post-photograph, the family browsed the gift shop. It was filled with educational toys, books, and replicas of artifacts from the island's rich history. Orion and Aurora picked out puzzles and a few historical storybooks, while Derreck and Laura selected some unique artifacts replicas to take home as souvenirs.
Leaving the museum, Derreck and Laura shared a look of contentment and pride. The museum visit had not only been educational for the children but also a reminder of the powerful history of the place they were visiting. They were thankful to Eren and Historia for preserving such a legacy and making it accessible to future generations.
…
After a fulfilling visit to the museum, Derreck, Laura, and their children ventured outdoors to enjoy a day in the lush, vibrant landscapes of Paradise Island. They decided to engage in a light-hearted scavenger hunt for rare flower seeds known to flourish in the region—a perfect activity to connect with the natural beauty of the island.
As the family scattered across the colorful meadows, collecting seeds and laughing together, Eren and Historia joined them, enjoying the leisurely pace of the day. However, as they moved through a particularly dense part of the forest, Eren's sharp eyes caught sight of something unusual—strange tracks on the soft earth beneath the canopy. The tracks were large and oddly shaped, unlike anything native to their world.
Simultaneously, Armin, ever the curious scholar, noticed something peculiar nestled among the underbrush. He carefully picked up an object that was strikingly out of place—a massive feather, at least as tall as Reiner. The feather was extraordinary, with thick quill-like barbs and a texture that was both imposing and bizarre. Upon closer inspection, Armin noted a slimy residue coating the feather, giving it a glistening, almost melting appearance.
"This is unlike any bird I know of," Armin murmured, turning the feather over in his hands. The residue was slightly tacky, and as he held it, the feather seemed to disintegrate slowly, leaving a viscous liquid on his gloves.
Laura and Derreck, drawn by Armin's discovery, approached to take a closer look. Laura, with her keen sense of smell, noted that the scent coming from the feather was both unfamiliar and faintly reminiscent of something she couldn't quite place—a distant memory or a scent from another world perhaps.
Eren, who had been examining the tracks, joined the group, his expression concerned. "These tracks, and now this... whatever creature shed this feather isn't from around here. It's possibly not from our world at all," Eren speculated, his tone serious.
The discovery cast a shadow over the day's light-hearted activities. The presence of such a strange and seemingly powerful creature hinted at mysteries and potential dangers lurking just beyond their knowledge.
"Let's take this back with us and analyze it," suggested Historia, always pragmatic. "If there's something new in our world, we need to understand it, especially if it could pose a threat."
The group agreed, and with the feather carefully secured for further examination, they continued their day with a mix of excitement and apprehension, aware that their peaceful island might once again be the stage for unforeseen events. The light-hearted collection of seeds continued, but now with a heightened sense of vigilance, as the adults kept a watchful eye on their surroundings, ready to protect their families at the first sign of danger.
…
About two hours later, in Hange's lab, Hange was leaning over the table where various concoctions and instruments of science were hard at work. In Hange's laboratory, the atmosphere was thick with the tension of discovery as she and her team meticulously analyzed the massive feather brought in from the forest. With her usual zeal for scientific exploration, Hange had set up a series of tests to unravel the mysteries held within the bizarre specimen. Her Argonian mage assistant stood ready with his magical detection tools, adding a layer of arcane scrutiny to the scientific investigation.
Hange conducted a battery of chemical and biological tests on the feather. The first few tests aimed to identify any potential contaminants but turned up nothing unusual. By the third test, however, a startling revelation came to light: the feather contained genetic markers consistent with griffon DNA. This initial finding piqued Hange's curiosity, prompting a more in-depth genetic analysis.
Her assistant, adept in magical studies, detected an unusually high level of magical residue embedded within the feather's structure. The magical energies were not just potent but also complex, suggesting a deep integration of magic within the creature's very essence.
As Hange proceeded with additional tests, the results began to paint a picture that was both fascinating and alarming. The genetic makeup of the feather showed clear signs of advanced mutations—similar but not identical to the mutations found in Witchers from Geralt's world. This led Hange to hypothesize that they were dealing with a creature that was not merely a griffon but something far more enhanced: a Witcher griffon.
Delving deeper, Hange conducted a comparison of the mutagens found in known Witcher mutations against those in the feather. She discovered that while two of the mutagenic components matched those used in the Witcher mutation process, a third component was entirely unknown. This new ingredient was not recorded in any of their databases or literature, indicating that this griffon had undergone a unique mutation process that could still be active, causing ongoing changes in its biological makeup.
"The implications of this are profound," Hange explained to her team, her eyes wide with both excitement and concern. "This griffon isn't just mutating; it's evolving, adapting at an unprecedented rate. Whatever caused these mutations has introduced entirely new elements into its genetic code."
The lab buzzed with discussions about the implications of such a discovery. The existence of a Witcher griffon suggested a level of magical and genetic engineering that was sophisticated and potentially dangerous. The unknown mutagenic ingredient added another layer of complexity, raising questions about who or what could have engineered such a creature and why.
Hange decided that the next step would be to consult with experts from Geralt's world, particularly those knowledgeable about magical creatures and Witcher lore. "We need to understand the full capabilities and intentions behind this creature's creation," she stated, her mind racing with the possibilities of what they might discover next.
As the gathering awaited Eskel's arrival at the palace, everyone gave them room to work around the mysterious feather and its implications. The arrival of Eskel, accompanied by Avallac'h and two young but notably competent Witcher graduates, Alaric Kiras (Alaric K.) and Tomas, brought a new level of expertise to the ongoing investigation with what they were about to disclose.
Upon their entrance, Eskel and Avallac'h immediately began their examination of the feather, their seasoned eyes scrutinizing every detail. Despite their vast experience with magical and mutated creatures, both were visibly puzzled by the feather's unique properties and the mutagenic complexities it presented.
Eskel handled the feather with a mixture of awe and caution, exchanging looks with Avallac'h. "I've seen many mutations and enhancements in my time," Eskel remarked, "but this... this is unprecedented."
Avallac'h, more attuned to the magical aspects, concurred, adding, "The magical saturation here is unlike anything in our records. It's as if this creature was not just enhanced but fundamentally redesigned at a molecular level."
It was when Alaric K. and Tomas stepped forward that the session took a more technical turn. Both young Witchers had been trained under the new methodologies that integrated more advanced scientific and magical theories into their curriculum and not tom mention that their cognitive skills were naturally through the roof.
Alaric K. began, his voice steady as he outlined their findings, "Based on the degradation patterns and residual magical energies, we hypothesize that the feather's structure is supported by a complex alchemical formula. This isn't just biological; it's alchemical engineering at its finest."
Tomas took over, delving deeper into the specifics. "The feather contains a high concentration of what we term 'Conducting Mutagens.' These are not typical in natural griffon populations. They allow for rapid magical conductance through biological tissues, enhancing the creature's natural abilities and possibly its capacity for controlled mutation."
He scribbled on a notepad, drawing structures and linking them with energetic flows, "See here," he pointed, "the mutagens we suspect are involved could theoretically restructure the genetic material continuously, adapting in real-time to environmental stimuli."
As Tomas and Alaric K. expounded on their theory, they outlined three potential chemical and alchemical formulas that might explain the feather's properties. Each formula was more complex than the last, incorporating elements of both known Witcher mutagens and novel, possibly undiscovered compounds.
Adaptive Regenerative Mutagen (ARM), This formula suggested a mutagen that enabled continuous cellular regeneration and adaptation, explaining the feather's slow disintegration and reformation.
Magical Conductivity Enhancer (MCE), Focused on enhancing the magical receptiveness of the creature's tissues, allowing it to harness and manipulate vast amounts of magical energy without physical degradation.
Genetic Resilience Amplifier (GRA), Aimed at strengthening the creature's genetic material against external mutations and ensuring stability amidst the extensive enhancements.
As the young Witchers finished, there was a moment of silence, everyone processing the depth and implications of their analysis. Eskel looked impressed, while Avallac'h quickly corroborated their findings with magical tests alongside Hange, who conducted parallel chemical verifications.
"Yes, they're right," Avaalac'h confirmed, his expression a mix of admiration and concern. "The spells I've detected intertwined with the feather's structure align with their theories. It's a groundbreaking discovery but also a potentially dangerous one."
…
Some-time later as they ventured deeper into the wilderness, the air grew tense with the anticipation of encountering the unknown creature. Alaric and Tomas, with their specialized training and keen senses, led the group, their eyes scanning the ground for any sign of the trail left by the creature. They explained their findings to the group, pointing out the nearly invisible traces of the creature's path.
"See this slight distortion here?" Tomas pointed to a seemingly normal patch of ground that, upon closer inspection, shimmered subtly. "The residue of its trail is bending light, making it invisible unless you know exactly what to look for."
Alaric added, "It's a clever survival mechanism, evolved or designed to make it nearly undetectable even to seasoned trackers like Eskel here."
The group moved cautiously, each member alert and ready. Eskel and Avallac'h, although unable to see the trail themselves, trusted the young Witchers' guidance and prepared for any encounter.
Eren and the others checked their equipment, ensuring that their rifles were loaded and ready. The special silver bullets, infused with a blood coagulant, were an experimental solution they hoped would provide them with an edge against a creature enhanced with magical mutagens.
Floch, always meticulous, reviewed the contingency plans. "If we engage, we aim to incapacitate and study. No lethal force unless absolutely necessary," he instructed the group, ensuring everyone was on the same page.
Reiner, carrying the weight of his past experiences with monstrous creatures, felt a grim determination. "Whatever this thing is, we can't let it threaten our people. We've dealt with titans; we can handle this."
As they advanced, Levi's sharp eyes and instincts served as an additional layer of security. His experience with fast and deadly threats made him an invaluable asset to the team.
The forest around them grew denser, the shadows longer, and the atmosphere heavier. The residue trail led them to a more secluded area, where the air was cooler and the silence more pronounced.
Suddenly, Tomas held up his hand, signaling a halt. "We're close," he whispered. The group tightened their formation, moving forward with even greater caution.
Armin, always the strategist, spoke quietly to Eren and Derreck. "Once we find it, we need to assess quickly. If it's as powerful as we suspect, we might need to rethink our approach on the fly."
Eren nodded, his expression serious but focused. "Let's hope it doesn't come to that. But if it does, we'll be ready."
As the group approached the nest, the sight that greeted them was unsettling yet fascinating. Nestled in a large clearing surrounded by dense foliage, there were twenty large, obsidian-black eggs, each pulsing with a strange energy that seemed almost alive. The realization dawned on everyone—this was no ordinary creature; it was a mother protecting its future offspring.
Quickly understanding the gravity of their discovery, Eskel motioned for everyone to fall back quietly to the cover of the nearby bushes. They settled into their hiding spots, their breaths quieted, and their movements minimal. The plan was clear: wait for the creature to return and catch it by surprise.
The wait wasn't long. Within minutes, a massive form shadowed the sky above. The royal witcher-griffon descended into the clearing, its size and presence breathtaking. It was indeed thrice the size of any known griffon, with piercing witcher-like eyes and a coat of barbed feathers dripping with a viscous substance.
The creature's arrival was marked by the thud of a large cow it dropped near the nest—food for its unborn. Then, to the group's astonishment, it spoke in a guttural, resonating voice that filled the clearing, "Mommy will keep you safe, little ones." The words, though spoken with a beast's voice, carried an unmistakably human emotion.
The surreal scene unfolded as the royal witcher-griffon, towering and majestic, began to tear into the cow it had brought back for its eggs. Its voice, deep and resonant, echoed again through the clearing, "If you don't mind, I'd like to have a word with you, since you refrained from smashing my eggs when you had the chance... I'm more than willing to talk if you are."
At this, Levi, Eren, and Derreck exchanged quick glances, each marked by a mix of caution and surprise. Understanding the unique opportunity before them, they signaled to their men to hold their positions and maintain a non-aggressive stance. This creature was not just another beast; it was intelligent, capable of communication and, seemingly, of rational thought.
Slowly, with a careful respect for the creature's space, Levi, Eren, and Derreck stepped out from their cover, approaching the griffon with their hands visibly empty to show their peaceful intentions. The rest of the team stayed back, watching intently but ready to intervene if things took a sudden turn.
As they came closer, the griffon ceased feeding and straightened up, its towering form imposing yet still. Its eyes, glowing faintly with an otherworldly light, fixed on the trio as they approached.
"Thank you for not harming my children," the griffon began, its voice a strange amalgam of beastly growl and human clarity. "I sensed your presence earlier but chose to trust your discretion."
Eren, always the diplomat among his group, took the lead in responding. "We're here to understand, not to destroy," he explained, his voice steady and clear. "Your existence is something new to us, and we hope to learn from you, not engage in needless violence."
Levi, whose life had often been spent in the thick of battle, added, "Your abilities and your... nature, they're unlike anything we've encountered. You speak of trust, and that's what we're offering in return."
Derreck, understanding the gravity of the moment and the potential implications of this encounter, spoke last. "We're dealing with forces that might not understand or respect what you are. By communicating, perhaps we can help each other avoid unnecessary conflict."
The griffon listened intently, nodding slightly as it digested their words. "I am called Morwen," it said after a moment, "and I am the last of my kind to undergo the Witcher mutations.
As Morwen's tale unfolded, a distant, pained look clouded her fierce eyes, showing her struggles she had endured. "My mate, another like me, confronted Sinister—one whom you might be familiar with, in one of his notorious labs. During our escape through a monolith from the world of the Witchers, my mate sacrificed himself to ensure my safety. I cannot say for certain what became of him after he fell defending us, but I know he died at the hands of that madman," she shared, her voice catching slightly with the grief of the memory.
She composed herself quickly, though the sorrow briefly shown was telling of her loss. "There were others," she continued, her tone steadying. "A Kikimora queen and a giant centipede, both possessing intelligence akin to mine, also fled. They found refuge in Toussaint, within the same world. Like me, they seek only peace."
Shifting her focus back to the present and the group before her, Morwen addressed their potential concerns with a calm assertiveness. "I assure you, I do not seek conflict. My only desire is to live peacefully on this world, where I can raise and guide my children safely. I have no intentions of harming anyone or anything. All I ask is for the chance to live without fear of being hunted or killed for what I am—a mother, a survivor."
Eren, moved by her story and the sincerity in her plea, nodded understandingly. "Your story is a powerful reminder of the complexities we face when dealing with creatures from other worlds. We respect your wish for peace, Morwen, and we will do what we can to ensure you and your young are safe here."
Levi, always pragmatic, added, "If you need anything, or if there's any sign of trouble, you can contact us. It's in our interest as well to maintain peace and avoid any escalation."
Derreck, reflecting on his own experiences with otherworldly beings and the misunderstandings that often arose, extended a hand in a gesture of goodwill. "You have my word, Morwen. We'll help shield you from those who might not understand or accept your presence. You and your children deserve a chance at a peaceful life, just like anyone else."
As the conversation drew to a close, the group agreed to keep in touch with Morwen, providing her with means to contact them if necessary. They also planned to monitor the situation discreetly, ensuring that her integration into this new world remained untroubled by the past's shadows.
…
A little while later…
As Eren diligently set up a secure perimeter around Morwen's designated nesting and hunting grounds, his efforts aimed to ensure the griffon and her future offspring would face no undue threats or disturbances. He coordinated with local authorities and community leaders, spreading awareness about the importance of respecting the new boundaries for the sake of peace and coexistence.
Meanwhile, Eskel and the other Witchers, Alaric K. and Tomas, prepared for their journey to Toussaint through the makeshift gateway established between Shiganshina and Toussaint. They planned to investigate further into the presence of other mutated creatures like Morwen that might be residing in that famously peaceful and vibrant region of The Witcher's world.
Derreck, before departing on his own mission, shared a tender moment with Laura and their children, who were preparing to return to Krakoa. He reassured her with a loving kiss, promising to rejoin them soon to continue their vacation, which would include a visit to Faerûn—a land they both were eager to explore further.
Hange decided to join the expedition to Toussaint, bringing along her Argonian assistant, He-who-reads. His unique skills as a scientific mystic from Nirn would be invaluable in understanding the magical and biological intricacies of the creatures they were about to study.
Eskel, handling the coordination with Toussaint, engaged in a critical conversation with Damian, the captain of the Duchess's guard. He relayed the unusual but crucial information about their quest to find sentient creatures similar to Morwen.
"Damian, keep an eye out for any unusually calm and communicative Kikimora queens or similarly sentient giant centipedes," Eskel instructed over the communicator.
There was a pause on the line as Damian processed the request. "Did I hear that right? Sentient Kikimora queens and centipedes?" he asked, his tone a mix of disbelief and curiosity.
"Yes, that's correct," Eskel confirmed, maintaining his composure despite the bizarre nature of the information. "We recently encountered a creature named Morwen—a royal griffon that underwent mutations similar to those used to create Witchers. She's not only sentient but also highly communicative. We believe there might be others like her, possibly including a Kikimora queen and a giant centipede, both mutated in a unique way."
Damian, now fully alert to the gravity of the situation, nodded, even though he was only audible through the communicator. "Understood, Eskel. I'll alert the Duchess's guard and keep our eyes peeled. This is certainly a first for us, but we'll be prepared to extend our hospitality or assistance as needed."
With plans firmly set and communications established, Eskel, along with Hange and her assistant, proceeded through the gateway. Their mission was clear: to find and assess the sentient creatures, ensuring they were not threats and understanding more about their unique conditions.