POV Change: Elinor, our Lich Empress
Recap: Elinor and Tiffany discussed the 3 Pillars of an Empire (the three C’s), and the Five means of Control that an Empire uses to influence its citizens. Tiffany went through many examples to help Elinor understand with her limited high school education and to also put to bed any moral qualms she might be having about the evils she’s contemplating.
Tiffany has begun to show hints about what’s beneath the charming mask she wears and the Witch underneath. She cares nothing for the living, as much as humans think about the insects around them. She lives solely for Elinor and her desires. If that means putting on a masquerade, then she will.
The crowd of Yaltha’ma parted to open up the path for Elinor; she glanced to her right at Tiffany. The Witch was glowing with excitement.
Returning her focus to the spider carcasses, Elinor pursed her lips as an unsettling question crossed her mind. What if I can’t resurrect them? How would I spin it … they’re expecting me to revive them. Well, there’s only one way to find out.
Ordering her minion to lower Tiffany and her to the ground, she stepped onto the cold stone floor. Te’la quickly used the lowered hand on Tiffany’s side to descend, joining El’Co’Ca. Tiffany followed as she walked toward the large Thélméthra remains.
Standing before what she assumed to be the queen, Elinor pursed her lips while studying the metal-like exoskeleton of the creature. They were far more elegant than what she imagined, only resembling a spider in shape. Her arms burst into emerald flames as she activated Herald of the Empress.
The Hidden Ones gasped as four burning butterflies emerged from the fire. The flickering figures fluttered toward the Thélméthra, slowly flying around their subjects of focus, and Elinor’s eyes widened as they fed back information on the Queen and her daughters.
“What’s the verdict?” Tiffany asked, fingers tightly wrapped around each other as her tongue slid across her pursed lips.
Elinor responded by sending one of the blazing messengers into the deceased Queen’s remains. The Thélméthra royalty ignited, causing the Yaltha’ma to dart back to the entrance in panic as the long legs twitched.
A lump dropped down Elinor’s throat as a massive chunk of her energy flooded into the Queen. That was massive … even though I know I still have a large amount of energy left; it was no small sum. I’d say at least sixty-five percent of my current total.
Her green irises flicked to the remaining three. Will I have enough? They’re powerful … I should first ask for the Queen’s blessing. If she’s going to be my loyal servant, then I need to show that I respect her, and it could be extremely disrespectful to just bring back her children. One Transcendent Court Member is worth much more than even a Mythic-Grade minion.
Tiffany’s teeth flashed as she smiled, clapping her hands. “I can feel it! A new member of the Royal Court has been initiated … how, though? Yes! She holds the Royal Executioner, Title, the Assassin Class Transcendent Unit General. I don’t get it … she just instantly accepted the role? I must understand how…”
She paused as a dignified and succulent voice entered their minds. “I felt the pull of a power that goes beyond me … Elinor. That is how you identify yourself?”
Edmon’s pleased tone was the first to respond. “Well, now, how opportune. I welcome you to the Court.”
Tiffany quickly interjected. “What should we call you by? Do you have a name, or was that something foreign to your race?”
A concern that Emotional Loss was dulling was replaced with a wave of relief as she watched the Queen’s body erupt with fire, repairing every damaged section. Her vision moved between the restored parts that appeared more gem-like than organic; a dark red gem-like substance materialized from the green flames.
The Queen’s thin, long legs flexed their many joints as the glow increased, and the plates along her abdomen were renewed, showing a thin layer between each plate that rose and fell as if the creature was breathing.
The Hidden Ones were slowly moving closer, whispering softly as they went.
“Empress Elinor is all-powerful!”
“The rise of the Thélméthra!”
“The Hidden Ones are saved!”
“Empress Elinor be praised!”
The Queen rose to her full three and a half meter height, lifting her restored smooth and elegantly formed abdomen in the air before answering. “We do not give names; we identified one another by scent … however, I sense that a name is important to you. What name will I be known by?”
“Can I express my opinion on this matter?” Tiffany asked in delight.
Edmon hummed lowly within their minds. “Tiff, give the Queen some time to acclimate; she’s being bombarded by information from the system about her own abilities and knowledge, and about Elinor and the Empire.”
“Yes, yes, we both went through the process,” she replied dismissively.
Looking up at the beautiful yet intimidating figure of the Queen’s head, Elinor couldn’t help but feel a little embarrassed by Tiffany’s discomposed behavior but knew it was her personality. A statement crossed her mind; she didn’t know where it had originated but seemed right.
It’s the leader’s responsibility to help their team in decision-making, coaching, mentoring, developing the team’s skills, and managing conflict.
Filtering out the others, Elinor directed her thoughts directly to Tiffany. Let’s step back, Tiffany. Give her a chance to acclimate for a moment, and we can take this one step at a time.
Tiffany’s body tensed momentarily, and her tone became forced as she returned the private communication. “Of course, Elinor … I apologize for my behavior.”
The Queen kept her focus on Elinor, waiting for her response. Clearing her throat, she said, For now, I will call you Queen, but that is subject to change, and I believe it should. That being said, Queen, are you willing to listen to Tiffany’s suggestions?
“I have no objections,” her legs smoothly moved to turn her toward two of her daughters beside her.
Edmon replied with a brooding hum. “I wouldn’t encourage her, Queen. She can be quite…”
“Quite what?” Tiffany demanded with a huff.
Queen cleanly slid between their bickering. “That being said, my memories are returning, and my current circumstance is falling into order. I have been given an understanding of what you are, Elinor, how your abilities function, my place within this Empire, and I am glad to do what is expected of me. Now, what is to be done with my children and horde?”
Elinor’s lips curved into a soft smile, and the Queen’s distinction piqued her interest, but she chose to save that question until later. That is an important decision. My ability to bring them back is quickly diminishing as time goes on. Would you be opposed to the idea of me bringing them back to serve the Empire?
“It would be my pride if they could serve such an establishment.”
Without wasting another word, Elinor directed her butterflies to bring back her three daughters and felt ninety-two percent of her remaining energy leave, and upon inquiry, found her energy pool at a two hundred and thirteen percent and still dropping. Excellent, I still have energy to spare.
The colors on each one shone as their gem-like structure formed, and each one had a different glow within their eyes and between their plates. They were notably less complete than their mother; there were cracks and missing sections of the crystal between areas, except for one that seemed almost as intact as the Queen, standing to her right.
The princess to Elinor’s far left with the red thorny vine-like pattern had a crimson glow, lighter than her mother’s blood red, and was the most damaged of her family. The green flames flashing out of the exposed areas, swiftly changing to represent the red hue. She was of Epic-Grade, and unlike the Queen, was of the Elite Warrior Class.
Right of her, rising to her feet beside the Queen, was the Thélméthra with pink diamonds and a gold teardrop. Her crystal-like eyes reflected her patterns, pink with a gold center. Her slim legs extended, stretching high into the air while yawning as if waking from a deep sleep. Her tone was notably younger than the Queen. This sister was of Legendary-Grade, and in the Assassin Class.
To the Thélméthra Queen’s right was her final and smallest daughter; however, this one was clearly meant to be the next monarch. With a bright white cross across her slightly larger abdomen, she held the most similar color palette to her mother than her sisters. Elinor could sense that she was high Mythic-Grade, bordering on Transcendent, and was of the Assassin Class.
Elinor could tell Tiffany was having a hard time restraining her questions by her hands, trembling a little as she clenched them at her front. She glanced back at the Yaltha’ma; the creatures had grown silent, watching the events with reverence.
She was about to give Tiffany the go-ahead when the daughters began to shoot questions at their mother.
“What happened?” The Mythic-Grade sister asked with concern, glancing around at the piles of Thélméthra remains.
Elinor was a little surprised to hear the Epic-Grade sister sniff, voice more mature and hostile. “You were basically useless!”
The pink-hued sister hummed with a strained tone as she lowered her body back down. “Come now, let’s not throw around blame. We all did little to help mother.”
“What are you talking about?” The Epic-Grade sister asked in a mystified tone. “You did a lot! I opened an opportunity while you cut right through the stupid infernal ape’s leg, but she didn’t do a damn thing. Her threads were useless, and her hesitation cost mother valuable time to deliver any fatal blows.”
“Enough,” Queen stated with displeasure, causing the three daughters to lower their bodies to the ground, and shut-up. “We are not the victim of your sister’s actions; I am the one that is responsible for all decisions. Your sister was inexperienced in physical combat, much less against a Quen’Talrat such as him. It was my failure in formulating that ambush.”
From the soft rumble in the sister’s throat, it was evident that she thought differently, but clear that she would do nothing to challenge her mother.
The Queen turned back toward Elinor; the glow of the spider-like figures looking sinister without light. “We have been raised to be a part of and help grow an emerging Empire. Represent yourselves with respect and loyalty.”
Elinor’s eyes slid over to the Mythic-Grade sister, and by her tucked posture, made the assumption she felt it was her fault, as well. I completely understand if you wish to discuss the past, and I don’t want any lingering issues that might cause problems in the future. That being said, I have a few tasks I’d like to prioritize.
Queen replied promptly, and her tone was the definition of regal. “Your order is all that is needed.”
Excellent. First, names are in order. You had some suggestions, Tiffany?
“Yes,” Tiffany replied with her excitement returning in bounds. “My thoughts were drawn to your statement that you each identify each other by scent. If that is the case, why not name each of you after flowers? I think it would be appropriate and adorable! Oh, can you tell me which of you is the oldest to youngest?”
The Epic-Grade spider hummed lowly. “Names … well, I suppose each of you have names. It’s kind of an odd concept.”
“No objection from me!” The pink and gold one stated, pointing a long, thin leg at her hot-blooded sister. “She’s the oldest, and I’m the middle child. Our baby sister is over there.” She stated, directing their attention to the depressed Mythic-Grade Thélméthra.
“Oh, I love you already! How about Azalea for you,” Tiffany squealed, causing Elinor to release a soft sigh. “It means temperance, fragile passion, and is the Chinese symbol of Womanhood. Although, it can also mean take care of yourself for me, which can be negatively interpreted,” she chuckled.
“I like that,” Azalea said with a bright tone.
“And me?” The eldest asked with sudden curiosity, lowering her body to get a better look at the Witch. “What about my name and it’s meaning?”
“Oh, we’ll need to find a good one for you,” Tiffany hummed, eyes scanning her designs. “Naturally, people … well, humans, might lean toward Rose with that design and color you have, but that’s a bit too common of a name. We want something a bit more unique … oh, I got it! What about Camellia? The red version of the flower means you’re a flame in my heart.”
“Flame … in my heart? I don’t know what that means.”
“Oh, umm—how would I describe it … it means that you are important to me.”
“That’s a nice thing to say!” She brightly stated. “Yes, I like that one. So, I’m Camellia now.”
“Hello, Camellia!” Azalea said, lightly bumping into her sister.
“Hello, Azalea,” she returned with a reciprocal bump.
The youngest crept forward a little, and hesitantly asked, “I—I’d like a name.”
“Be confident in your speech,” Queen chided. “You were designated the next Queen, and though you are young, you must take command.”
“Yes, mother … I’d like a name.”
Tiffany pursed her lips, black hair shifting to the left as she tilted her head. “Hmm … now the colors might not exactly match, but how about Violet. It can mean modesty and the blue and white variants expand the meaning to watchfulness, faithfulness, I’ll always be true, and let’s take a chance. I think it’s a pretty good name for a princess to be queen.”
“Yeah,” she whispered before strengthening her voice. “Violet is a wonderful name.”
Clapping her hands, Tiffany smiled brightly, and Elinor felt a little bad for Edmon as she purposefully broadcast her naming session to him.
“Good! Then, let’s see, for the Queen … oh, I need to figure out a good one … Iris! Yes, it must be Iris! It’s the Emblem of France, my homeland, and can mean faith, hope, wisdom, valor, and your friendship means so much to me.”
“That is sufficient.”
“Wonderful! I so look forward to working with you to advance the Empire.”
“Indeed.”
“Now, I know that your Sub-Class is Shifter, which is quite rare and powerful, and if I am not mistaken,” Tiffany hummed with a thoughtful gleam in her eyes as she glanced between the sisters, “you each have a Racial passive that allows each of you a similar skill. Did your race have the means to transform?”
The spiders spread out a little, and Elinor waited patiently for the reply, interested in the answer. However, the small fox-like Yaltha’ma drew their attention as their heads dropped to the ground, mumbling prayers to the Thélméthra.
Iris rose a little, staring around the area. “I see the little ones have not changed; they are as submissive as I remember, but somehow we can now understand them. This is a part of your power, Empress?” The Queen paused for a moment before releasing a soft hum. “Prose of the Potentate … quite a useful ability.”
Tiffany giggled. “You’re so quick on the uptake!”
Elinor wanted to understand Iris’ emotional state better, but it was hard without knowing her expressions and posture; if there were any indicators at all. One thing was for certain; the daughters respected The Queen’s position; the three of them kept silent, waiting for their mother to finish.
“As to our abilities in life. Yes, we did have the capability to manipulate the color of our bodies, and to a degree, shape our exoskeleton to better adapt to our environment. Is there a reason you asked?”
“Yes!” Tiffany cleared her throat for a moment. “Would it be possible to transform into a human? I believe you will enjoy the benefits, and the traps you can set as a weak, thin human girl cannot be underestimated.”
“Hmm … it is within the realm of my skills; however, I need to touch a creature once to identify their biological structure. Once I have touched a species, I can change my appearance to a certain degree, in relation to the genetic markers within; however, I am currently limited to three forms that I can recall and transform into. If you suggest it, then I can experiment with that form.”
Tiffany held out her hand. “I’d love that! Oh, but can you not be identical?”
The Queen lifted one of her lance-like legs, extending it toward the Witch. “I can gain a rough understanding of what is attractive to your species through your DNA.”
Elinor watched with fascination as her leg, and Tiffany’s hand touched; Iris’ body was wrapped in shadow before shrinking, taking on the shape of a woman, and she couldn’t help biting her lower lip for a moment.
Iris appeared to have selected specific genes that were shockingly close to Melissa Theuriau but had made a few modifications. The first thing Elinor noticed was that the Queen was naked, and she felt a little foolish for not even considering it.
Gasps swept the gathering of Yaltha’ma as they watched the monarch they’d worshiped for so long twist her human arms and waist to experiment with her new form. Iris’ three daughters were quick to gather around her, moving left and right to get a better angle on their mother’s change.
“Wow,” Tiffany breathed, eyes appraising the transformed spider-woman. “That was hidden in my genes?”
Iris breathed out a lush hum while sliding manicured fingernails across her flawless lightly tanned skin, slowly moving down her ample chest, tone stomach, and silk-like legs; the only hair on her spotless body was her layered black hair that cascaded in waves to her tone butt, showing white gradient highlights that fell to the tips and proportional black eyebrows.
Her sculpted face held mild amusement while exploring her new figure, tongue gliding over her naturally glossy pink lips. Her fingertips caressed her cheeks and ears before turning her flaming blood-red irises toward Tiffany.
“This form does have quite an appeal … the flexibility,” she mused, while slowly performing several controlled gymnastic stretches.
“You look … stunning,” Tiffany whispered, seemingly lost for words. “Can you activate any of your other abilities while in that form?”
Iris glanced back as eight long metallic black legs with six joints shot out of her naked back, spreading out below her to lift her body nearly a meter and a half off the stone floor. Her body twisted in the air with the extra support, testing her stability.
“It seems I do have several options.” She mused, fingers converting to shadow before revealing black claws. “I do believe it will take me some time to learn how to walk with two legs properly , but my defensive ability is still fully functional under this fleshy surface.
“My poisons can still be delivered, albeit less effective orally with such a small mouth, and I can coat my arms with … it is called the corrosive element. That being said,” she frowned, glaring down at her large bosom, “how do you tame these meat sacks?”
Elinor noticed a signal in the back of her mind, telling her that Iris’ daughters were communicating personally between each other, and she was able to eavesdrop. The three of them were discussing what they enjoyed about their mother’s change, what they’d do differently, and the reasons why their mother liked the new form.
Forcing a chuckle as she studied the spider queen, Elinor gestured at herself. “That would be support bras and clothing.”
“Bras and clothes?”
“Indeed!” Tiffany cleared her throat to draw her attention before pulling up her shirt to expose the article. “This … there are several variants, but what you want is a fabric with a strong supporting frame that will keep them in place, anchored with your shoulders or back … see, like this,” she displayed, turning and pulling back her hair to show her the back clip.
“I see…”
They watched in stunned fascination as Iris’ hair seemed to move on its own, growing, twisting, and covering her chest in a strapless bra and her lower half with spandex-style shorts; they were of simple design, but the form factor was perfect.
“This is simple enough … it seems to function as you said.”
“Yes!” Tiffany cheered. “I knew it! The Thélméthra are so cool. What about your daughters? I know it may be selfish, but I just want to … I want to have them design all these amazing clothes, and if they look anything like you, then it will be so much fun!”
Elinor giggled, causing everyone to focus on her; she used the opportunity to insert herself. The girls seem super excited to try it out, but they each have their own style that they’re thinking about. Why don’t you spend some time with them, Tiffany, and I’ll take a walk with Iris to better get to know her.
“Really? Is that okay, Iris?” Tiffany asked.
Iris turned her glowing red irises onto her daughters with a slight frown. “I see little harm, but Camellia, Azalea, Violet … you three must be sure this is the form you wish to take.”
She turned back to Elinor. “I can shapeshift into any creature I wish because of this Class; however, my daughters will only have this option once, as a Racial, from what I understand?” She asked, shifting toward Tiffany.
“Eh … yeah, true, but they won’t be these hulking spiders, and as you said, our shape is so much more flexible, we’re thinner, and we have fingers … oh, and like you said, you also keep your defensive gifts.”
Iris replaced her claws with perfect fingernails, examining them while lowering herself to the floor; her eight spike-like legs retracted into her back. “Not so.”
“No? Could you explain … I won’t claim to be the most knowledgeable on the subject.” Tiffany asked with a perplexed expression.
Elinor turned around to smile encouragingly at the throng of Yaltha’ma, watching them studiously while not saying a word; they’d been nothing but respectful.
“There is a time limit for their and my transformation.”
“Oh, no!” Tiffany’s left hand shot to her chin while her right pressed against her chest. “I hadn’t considered that. It will increase with Level and Grade, though. Right?”
“To a certain extent, yes,” Iris stated while stroking Violet’s leg. “The amount of time they’d be able to keep the form of a human depends on their own dedication, and each of my daughters has various degrees of discipline.
“There is a knowledge that is flowing into my thoughts … almost like an instinct that tells me how this change functions. It is as you say, Tiffany; by increasing their Grade, Level, and Ranks, then they will be able to extend that time. The one issue is how frustrating new forms can be.
“I am built to be adaptable and is one of the reasons why my mother chose me to be the Queen ahead of my sisters. Each of my daughters has talents of their own, and a human form might prove valuable for some of those gifts. It is up to them. Well, daughters? Think carefully, Camellia; you are the most impulsive.”
Elinor could feel Camellia’s slight agitation about being singled out, but when she spoke, her tone was perfectly respectful. “I do believe a human form could help…” She paused as Edmon spoke in their minds.
“More than you might realize. If I may make a suggestion, Iris?”
Iris folded her arms, humming softly while glancing at Elinor. “My species is very hierarchy driven. From what I understand, Elinor is above all while the Royal Court, which I am a part of, are second in command; each Royal is over their respective branch, and another Royal would need permission from that branch leader to command their units. Is this correct?”
Tiffany responded. “Yes, that is true.
“I see, then that means that Violet and Azalea are both under my direct command while Camellia has no leader. Does that make her the acting commander of the Elite Warrior Branch?”
Tiffany thoughtfully scratched the side of her head. “Honestly, I haven’t given that one much thought.”
Edmon’s tone was confident. “It does. However, in the absence of a commanding officer, different branches are put under the temporary leadership of another Royal. Camellia can be in charge of the Elite Warriors, but she still answers to an appointed Royal. That being said, I have no issue with putting the Elite Warrior Branch in your direct care.
“I am working with the Fodder to strengthen our defenses, Tiffany has currently taken Gwen and many of the Yaltha’ma under her direction to clean and provide utility, and that leaves you as an Offensive Unit to be determined.”
Elinor broke into the conversation. Then I’ll make it official; Iris, you will be in charge of the Elite Warrior Branch with the Royal Court as council. I will discuss my desires with you when we go on a walk, and from there, we will decide what the best option is.
“Very well,” Iris said, directing a curious smile at her. “What was your suggestion, Edmon?”
“Humans are naturally weak, we haven’t built all the abilities many species have developed to survive, and nearly everything on our world could easily kill us; that being said, we are the apex predator of our planet.
“We accomplished this by our mental ingenuity and adaptability. We created unmatched weapons to attack our natural enemies, crafted forts and armor to defend against their invasions and designed tools to tame the harshest environments, including outer space.
“My suggestion is that if Camellia is an Elite Warrior that can take on human form, then she can use weapons and armor in addition to her natural abilities. Once things start settling down, then we can start learning the new types of crafting in this world and what The System gives us to work with.
“One of the greatest feats of this system we are now attached to isn’t the magical abilities, but the crafters. We need to find a creature to fill the Royal Artificer Title, but any Crafting Class will do what we need.”
Iris’s smile continued to rise as she listened to Edmon’s explanation, and once he was finished, her tongue slid across her lips before expressing her thoughts.
“That sounds … delicious, Edmon. You’re suggesting I can use these tools, as well. I suspect that they can be crafted to fit a variety of different creatures, and I am no stranger to the use of tools. We use poisons, webs, and our body to significant effect as instruments of our trade.
“However … if you can create these items to perform limitless tasks, as you’re implying, then having these types of hands may be of great support.” She mused while twirling her wrist and flexing her fingers.
“Those infernal apes used such tools against us, and ultimately, it was what killed me and my daughters. I love your suggestion, Edmon. It seems you have quite a delightful mind.”
Elinor’s brow furrowed but soon lifted into amusement as she felt a flare of jealousy spike from her link to Tiffany.
“Yes, well, Iris, I think that is a wonderful idea! Now, Edmon, you need to get back to work.” She sniffed. “I remember you telling me that you had little time to converse.”
Edmon grunted. “This is an important discussion to be had. A Royal Artificer would be of significant importance to my work bolstering our defenses.”
“Yes, yes … now, what about you girls? Have you had enough time to make your decision?”
Azalea replied with a bright tone. “I’ve known since the start! I’ve always wanted to have more stealth, like the small creatures.”
“I agree with Azalea,” Violet said with longing, turning to look back at her mother. “Looking at what my mother was able to do with the hair on her head … is it hair?”
Iris responded by moving her hair without touch, spreading out every strand of her thick mane. “Not exactly. You’ll need to give it the properties of your webs and nerves when desiring to transform; thereby, you can maneuver and manipulate the type of web you are seeking to create.”
“That’s so cool!” Violet squealed, causing small quakes to pass through the ground as she bounced up and down, sharp points digging into the stone.
Camellia was a little more curious about Edmon’s explanation. “Edmon, are you saying I can use tools like the infernal apes wielded against us?”
“Most definitely,” he promptly responded. “Far more powerful than what they used as the Empire advances.”
“I’ll do it!”
Iris’ eyes narrowed darkly as she stared between her daughters. “If you choose this path, then there is no going back on your decision, and you must accurately desire for all of your current natural gifts to be a part of this new form. That includes the camouflaging-type skills you’ve honed.”
“We’ll do it!” They cheered. “Can we do it right now? Please?”
“Very well,” Iris sighed. “When changing, you may use many parts of their genetic code in conjunction with your own. That means you have many more options than you might realize if you only use the human genetic outline, and do not match the structure perfectly, let your desires guide you to your final destination.”
Tiffany smiled before raising her hand for a moment. “Elinor, if I might suggest something?”
Go ahead. She responded with a questioning look.
“Might the girls be able to base it off your genetic code? I know your body is a magical construct, but it’s still based on the genetic code from your original body. I just have my French, Italian, Greek, and Scottish bloodline, but you also have your father’s Spanish, Native American, and slight African bloodlines. It could give them a wider range!”
Chuckling a little, Elinor nodded. Alright, I’m fine with giving them more options.” She held out her hand. Who’s going first?
The oldest eagerly came forward, moving around her mother. “I will!”
She reached out her long leg to touch her hand; the texture was smooth as sheet metal, and only lasted a moment before her body was covered in a black smoke-like substance as she shrank.
The parts of Camellia’s naked body that were complete were just as flawless as her mother’s; however, part of her left shoulder and left forearm, as well as a part of the right side of her back that showed bone, muscle, and light red veins.
Other than that, Camellia had a figure resembling a female MMA fighter. Light red hair hung halfway down her back; it was as if there were living embers in it as several streaks burned brighter than the rest. She wasn’t quite as curved as her mother but was far more muscular.
“How strange,” she giggled, bending back and forward. “Why do I feel so light? It’s like … oof…” She leaned a little too far left, right foot leaving the ground, and fell on her face, hair fanning around her.
Her sisters laughed, causing her face to turn red.
“I don’t know how to work this thing yet … how do I do the hair thing?” She mumbled, and her hair moved a little as she rose back to her feet, but nothing was created. A growl left her throat as she ran her hands through it, shaking it out. “C’mon!” It only held still in the air before slowly moving down.
“You were never good with webs,” Violet teased.
Azalea hummed softly. “Well, Camellia was always more of a chase the food down type of hunter. To be fair, she did get pretty good at slinging her webs at things to rope them in.”
“At least I wasn’t a web fanatic that wouldn’t even go out, Violet!” Camellia grumbled.
“I made really pretty stuff!” She defended. “I could run just as fast as you, anyways,” she sniffed. “I didn’t need to do all that exercise.”
“That’s because you’re the third born!” Camellia barked. “You were gifted way more than we were. It’s how it always is…”
“Quit your bickering,” Iris chided, causing them to go silent. A soft hum left Iris’ throat as she studied Camellia, still trying to get her hair to function properly. “It will take some time to get used to it, but I doubt you’ll be proficient enough to create covering as I have for a great while.”
“I can do it! I know I can … I just need to figure it out,” Camellia pleaded, face flushed with desperation as she continued to fluff out her hair to have it slowly fall back down again.
“No, you weren’t proficient with webs when alive, and you won’t be in this new form; your efforts are better utilized elsewhere. Work on your other strengths.”
“Yes, mother…” She said in a discouraged tone. “I’ll try getting used to walking.”
“Me next!” Violet said, rushing forward; Camellia cried out in surprise as the wind generated by her passing threw her off balance, crashing back-first onto the floor.
“Watch it,” she growled, struggling back to her feet. “I’m still getting used to these things,” she mumbled, running her hands down her tone legs while bending up and down.
“Get used to them faster; it can’t be that hard,” Violet said with a hint of amusement.
I guess you’re next. Elinor said with a smile, holding out her hand.
“Thank you, Empress Elinor!” Violet replied, holding out her leg; her massive body was blocked by shadow as her form changed. Once it cleared, Elinor was shocked to see, with a few exceptions, her face was a near-exact copy of a female actor she liked.
Violet’s tongue slid over her black lips as she looked down at her curved body; she had more of a figure than her sister but slightly less rounded than her mother. Her skin was like smooth alabaster, and she was just as flexible as Iris. It was clear that she’d taken a few points of inspiration from Elinor herself.
Violet curled her delicate fingers to examine her manicured black fingernails, and she twisted around to study her long black hair that fell just below her tone butt. It moved around on its own, defying gravity as she played with the silky smooth locks.
Her luminous white irises, framed by her black sclera and thick eyelashes, slid to Elinor before a soft smile touched her face; she performed a slight bow, hair refusing to move from her back with the gesture.
Clearing her throat before swallowing, Violet spoke with a soft tone that held a ruler’s edge. “I appreciate—your patience with my mother and—and my sisters, my grace.” She made deliberate pauses to lick her lips and swallow, playing with her tongue a bit between the breaks, but every word was clear and distinct.
Elinor released a soft chuckle. “I see you do pick things up quickly, Violet.”
Annoyance flashed through her link with Camellia, and she tried clearing her throat before speaking; it was far less elegant, but she had a lovely voice. “T-Thank—y-you … E-E-Emp—Empress El—Elinor.”
Elinor felt a little bad for the oldest sister; she’d seen a lot of her friends with older siblings get jealous or envious of their elder sibling’s achievements to know that it was the opposite here. Camellia, as the firstborn, was destined to live in the shadow of her younger sisters.
“As expected,” Elinor praised. “Camellia, you can also speak. I’m delighted to have your family within my Empire.”
She was a little taken aback as Violet spoke again. “If I may, Empress,” she paused, massaging her throat with a slight frown before continuing, voice still beautiful. “Can I look at your clothes and get some inspiration for what covering I should use?”
Elinor’s mouth twitched with amusement as her green irises shifted to Tiffany; she bit her lip with excitement written across her face. “I don’t mind, and Tiffany can tell you a little about the different styles of clothing we have in our world.”
Tiffany hurried over as Violet slowly circled her, glowing white eyes scanning every inch of her attire, and Elinor suddenly realized just how gifted the spider was. Tiffany began listing off different styles of clothing while Elinor pondered.
I should have expected it from a near Transcendent-Grade unit, but Violet is extremely sharp, possibly close to her mother or likely even surpassing her in some fields. She was made to carry on the next generation … was it because of her broken development process that she didn’t become Transcendent level? Maybe she hadn’t matured before dying.
She’s matching Iris’ handle on changing into human form. She’s walking, talking … her mother hasn’t even tried speaking with her mouth. Maybe she wants to make more intricate clothes than her mother to prove that she is worthy of that responsibility?
Her vision slid to Camellia; her eyes could have burned a hole right through Violet, and it wasn’t hard to guess why. She was completely overshadowed, and Elinor expected the mild-tempered middle sister to be only slightly less competent than her younger sister since she was on the higher level of the Legendary-Grade spectrum.
However … the way Violet reacted before. There is a kiddish side to her, but that was masked once she changed. Perhaps, she hasn’t matured entirely, but if she catches herself, then she can act in a dignified manner. Her mental state seems sound, but her emotional state could be called into question.
How she handles stressful situations will be critical to judge. Even if she’s a genius with amazing instincts … if she loses her temper and can get flustered when under pressure, then she won’t be suited for certain tasks.
After a few minutes of study, and focusing on Tiffany’s explanation of Japanese-style clothes, Violet stopped in front of her before saying, “I believe I have an idea of what I wish to create.”
“I’m so excited!” Tiffany squealed.
Violet closed her eyes and lowered her head; her hair fanned around her, nearly shrouding her entire body before pulling back to reveal a Bandeau black and white bra with the same color and long stripe-like patterns on the panties. There was a tie at the front, which Elinor assumed didn’t need to be there, but added some of the fashion that Tiffany suggested.
“How does this look? It feels nice and elastic,” she added, twisting her torso and shoulders a bit to stretch it.
Her mother and sisters walked beside Elinor to study her as she showed off the clothing, keeping a curious expression.
“It looks beautiful!” Tiffany clapped excitedly. “We’re going to have so much fun!”
“I—is … is that—it?” Camellia asked.
“No,” Violet huffed, putting her hand on her hip; she seemed to be in complete control of her voice now. “This is just the first layer. Tiffany was explaining to me—what was the word, outfit … it is a combination of different clothing. It’s better than not wearing anything at all, and letting things flap about.”
Camellia scowled at her, nibbling on her lower lip.
“It looks so strange but oddly appealing,” Azalea commented, bending down a little to get a better look as Violet stretched out her arms to expose herself more.
Iris cocked her head slightly; her expression made it clear that her daughters’ antics amused her. When she spoke, it was with command, precision, and sounded beautiful. “Violet is not wrong. We do need to do something about covering ourselves; it seems to mean multiple things to humans.”
The Queen stepped closer to her daughter, white highlighted hair extended out, wrapping around Camellia’s upper and lower halves before leaving a set identical to her own.
“I—I’ll … f-figure…” Her mother sighed before cutting her off.
“Learn how to speak aloud when not wasting people’s time, Camellia. I understand you wish to show your own talents, but you should practice before showing us. You can learn how to create your own outfit in time. Be patient with yourself and don’t give up.”
Camellia’s face drooped as she mumbled, “Yes, mother.” She fell silent, tugging gently at the semi-elastic bra to test it out; the article didn’t tear and seemed to be reasonably secure.
Iris turned her eyes back to Violet with a fond smile. “If there was one area you surpassed me, then it is the art of the weave. You’ve learned to change the color of your web from black to white, most impressive. I look forward to your next display.”
Violet beamed. “Thank you, mother.”
Elinor nodded with a slight smile as Violet turned her sparkling eyes to her. “I’m impressed, and I expect to continue being amazed by what you fashion. I was only partially listening to your conversation with Tiffany; so, I don’t know what you have planned next.”
Nodding, she moved onto the next piece; her hair parted to reveal a loose black robe that fell to her upper thighs. It was tied to the side by a white strap and was cut in a way to expose her collarbone but hide the bra.
“Tiffany called this a casual and more modern style to the juban … did I pronounce that right?”
The Witch nodded, positively glowing with anticipation. “It’s perfect! It’s traditionally worn under—what comes next!”
“Fascinating,” Iris mused as Violet turned around to give them a full view of the covering.
“Next! Next!” Tiffany cheered, and the Yaltha’ma had fanned out to get a better view of the strange event.
Violet’s hair fanned around her again, weaving and shifting, and this time it took more than five times as long to finish; once done, Elinor’s eyes widened.
She was clothed in a long white kimono with large intricate black chrysanthemum designs. With what was evident from the inside of the sleeves, the inner lining was black with small white flowers spaced across it. The hemming was black, contrasting the white main body, and both wide sleeves were tied just above the elbow with black petal-shaped bows.
Around her waist was a night-black sash that seemed to have been folded in an intricate way to reveal the black body, and the white trim and petal arrangements. It wrapped around her thin stomach, holding the kimono in place with an exquisite bow at the back.
The entire thing looked like it would have been torture to create.
“No … Tiffany, a Kimono, and like…” She paused as Violet completed the outfit by balancing on each foot while her hair fashioned two Japanese geta shoes; the soles and thick strap was black with white edges. The body was at least an inch thick, and the two blocks would lift her six inches off the ground; an inch was cut out of the center of each block, leading up to a diamond-shaped cut halfway up.
“Unbelievable,” Elinor mumbled, causing Violet’s face to crease with concern.
“Is it that bad? Should I not do the hair thing?” She asked, looking down at her outfit with a deep frown.
Tiffany giggled sheepishly. “No, no, dear, you look absolutely stunning! The Empress is just a little shocked by what I asked you to create. Go ahead, go on,” she urged, left arm held against her stomach while her right pressed against her chin. “I can’t wait!” She whispered before biting her lip.
Violet’s hair lifted up and twisted around until several shining white and black pins with balls, tassels, and beads dropped down their sides, holding up a portion of her hair while leaving the rest to drop down below her butt.
Her bangs were cut just a bit above her eyes, and a braid formed beside her ear, lying atop more locks that framed her face, and dropping a few inches below her chin. White shiny Kanzashi held white flowers on the left side of her head, hiding the start of the braid on that side.
The entire process took even longer than the kimono.
“Okay,” she sighed, looking a little fatigued. “It took a bit more concentration to make the intricate parts. This is what I imagined from your description. What do you think?”
“It looks like a lot of work,” Camellia mumbled, folding her arms as she turned away, seemingly uninterested.
“Superb,” Iris said with a light hum, moving closer to examine the finer details. “It did take quite a lot of work, and especially since you are just learning that form. I see a few spots that could use some more focus, and by doing this, you’ve expended much of your energy. It will take longer than you have time in this form to recover.”
“It does look amazing,” Elinor complimented. “How long can you each stay in that form?”
“Thirty minutes, right now,” Camellia promptly replied.
Violet nodded. “We will need to wait at least two hours before transforming again. That’s one reason why I made these so I can remove them … I don’t want them to be destroyed after all the work I put into it.”
“A very nice touch!” Tiffany praised. “What about you, Iris? Do you have a time limit?”
The Shapeshifter held her hands behind her back as she turned to face the Witch, features neutral. “Yes. I can stay transformed for six hours before needing a day to recover. That will extend, and the period of time it will take to recover decreases as I hone the skill.”
Elinor turned to Azalea, noting how patient she’d been. “Are you ready for your turn?”
“Absolutely!” She replied with a bright tone. I have an image in mind.”
She held out her hand, and the spider touched it with her thin front leg, and once the shadows left, she was a little surprised to find the body of a teenager.
The middle child had chosen to take on a smaller and younger form than her sisters and mother, showing soft features; she could have been seventeen to eighteen by her appearance, and that wasn’t the only deviation she’d made.
Azalea’s bright pink irises were larger than most humans, and so were her eyes. She studied her thin arm as she extended it, twirling it back and forth while flexing her delicate fingers. Her voice was soft and gentle, and she paused a few times to experiment with her tongue and throat. “How—curious. I feel like—I can—fly. I’m so light!”
Her dark blue hair fell halfway down her back and shifted while her body twisted around, examining her new form. The roots of her hair were a sky blue, quickly deepening to a midnight shade; parts of the inner layers by her neck glowed with an aqua hue, and her eyebrows matched the deeper colors of her hair.
Azalea’s cheeks were slightly rosy, and there was a dark blue beauty mark below the corner of her left eye. Her cute button nose and high cheekbones added to her smooth skin, giving her a younger appearance.
Bending to study her markless white skin, she bit the lower left half of her glossy red lips, pulling it back to reveal perfect white teeth. She giggled, sliding her hand down her small chest, smooth stomach, and rounded butt to graze the back of her blue fingernails against her thighs. “It tickles.”
“What a cutie you are!” Tiffany chimed, rushing over to get a better look. “You went for the small cute type, huh?”
“It just felt right for what I wanted,” she said with a bright smile.
They all watched her hair extend, creating a blue bra to match her mother’s simple design and spandex-like covering for her lower half, resembling workout shorts.
“Huh … it does feel somewhat right to wear something,” she whispered.
They all turned to Elinor as she spoke. “I love how all of you look; you really are something special. That being said, I believe it is time we move on; we have much to do.
“So, you girls get to know Tiffany a bit better while your mother and I go have a talk and iron out some details, and all of you,” she said, turning toward the Hidden Ones, “can go up and help the others. You can do it in your own groups if you like.”
Facing her ritualist, she asked, “Tiffany, can you tell Edmon to send word to one of the leaders of the Yaltha’ma? All Yaltha’ma are now under the Empire; any discrimination between the groups will be followed with heavy punishment.”
“Of course,” Tiffany replied. “Would you like me to also add that El’Co’Ca is in charge of the Hidden Ones’ faction?”
“That would be great.” Turning to Iris, she said, “After you.”
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