I Am The Swarm

Chapter 366: Terms

When the Swarm arrived at the Twin Star Defensive Zone, the Rikens, who had never communicated with the Swarm before, chose to broadcast indiscriminately to the Swarm forces.

They used a very euphemistic tone, roughly meaning that for the sake of peace between the two neighbors and to avoid further bloodshed, they were willing to make concessions, and so on—a long-winded speech. The central message, however, was ‘we surrender’, delivered in the Riken language.

After receiving this message, both sides entered a period of silence. The Swarm forces did not attack, nor did they show any other response, leaving the native Rikens feeling extremely uneasy.

Several days passed like this. Eventually, the new Riken President, Milton, arrived at the front lines from the home planet and made a more formal broadcast.

Thus, in a small, private meeting, the Rikens finally met the legendary “Swarm people” for the first time.

“I knew it! Those octopus freaks aren’t their true forms! This appearance is much more pleasing to the eye,” remarked Alcer, gazing at the female Swarm figure engaged in conversation with the President.

Her slender physique, armored plates covering vital areas, and spiky joints presented a visage both menacing and beautiful—aligning well with the aesthetics favored by the military’s tough personnel.

As Fleet Commanders of the three main Riken fleets, Alcer and his peers held positions of power and real authority, making them naturally eligible to attend the meeting. The camaraderie they had built during their previous joint operations also drew them together now.

“Shut it, Alcer. We’re the losers here; we need to stay humble,” scolded Hamis.

“What’s there to be afraid of? I didn’t say anything bad. Besides, we’re so far away that even if I had, she wouldn’t hear it,” Alcer said dismissively.

Yet, just as he finished speaking, the female Swarm figure turned her head and gave him a slight smile.

Alcer awkwardly raised his glass in acknowledgment.

When she turned back again, he exchanged glances with the other two and, in tacit agreement, the trio retreated further into a corner of the room.

“Alcer, you really need to curb that habit of yours—running your mouth like that,” whispered Novaul.

“How was I supposed to know they could hear that well?”

“I’m not so sure she heard it.”

“What do you mean?”

“Nothing concrete, just a feeling. Anyone being stared at by eyes like