“Shut up. This is your fault. I told you I should go first. I’m not a horrific Ant.”

“This is a world. Everyone levels in it. Humans, lizard people, talking insects, cats, dogs, Goblins…”

“Shut up. She just seems lonely, that’s all. Why else would a Human female want to hang out with a Drake and an overgrown bug?”

“Bet she didn’t know. And her expression when we walked in—she’s never seen a Drake or an Ant before in her life. Well, the Ant part makes sense.”

“Apologies. It is unwise to hug those with exoskeletons. Please, are you hurt?”

“I would prefer that you call my species by their proper name.”

“Fine. Antinium. Happy?”

“Right, right. Let’s tell the Captain and get some sleep. Or rather, I’ll sleep and you do—whatever Ants do to sleep. Sitting-sleeping or whatever.”