I present the sticky metal that leaked from the swarmers. It flows and pools in my palms, smelling of honey and iron.

I present the sticky metal that leaked from the swarmers. It flows and pools in my palms, smelling of honey and iron. There is a pulse of recognition from the interface.

CATASTROPHIC ORGAN FAILURE Hive - kzzkktt - uncontained - kzzkktt - unable to iterate - kzzkktt

For a moment, I feel connected to the Atlas. As though it sees every part of me. As though this unknowable entity and I are somehow the same being. The moment is brief. But I am left with one seed of knowledge. The Hive of Glass is coming.