Linked as they were to the Hive, navigation of the labyrinthian corridors which made up the Ursa base could be difficult. After all, it'd been some time since they had first maneuvered themselves to the surface. Delicately their way had been picked through slick tunnels then, the countless blank surfaces chill under hand and foot. Truth be told, after birth they'd wandered and whiled more often in those areas a mere few lengths from the whipping winds of the outside than the cradle of life they'd emerged from, nestled deep within the complex. That place had been rendered a fond memory by now, a mere image reinforced by any broadcast fortunate enough to be handed to them by those within these walls.

To be called back here was an experience hard to define. At most, they might describe the emotion evoked almost a stirring of what some might deem heartstrings, or others a soul: an awakening—but to what they knew not.

It mattered little. Focus on the present; the purpose for this pilgrimage deserved their full attention.

The lighting is a nice touch. While eyes remained fixed on the winding path ahead, the remark was directed at the bundle of fur carried in slender arms. Meaningless chatter, but Halcyon had gathered such empty comments were necessary for bonding amongst some of their fellows, so they endeavored to practice it as much as possible until mastery. How very considerate of Mother.

An appropriately accommodating choice, they might say, to hold back the darkness for those of her children less capable of traversing through it. Of course she would have thought of them, as any attentive parent ought to.

The smooth floor began to lose its steep decline and leveled out upon entry into their final destination. Despite their steps risking a brush with the shifting Clearstone, never did their breath stutter from its regular inhale and exhale. They tip-toed around, prim as could be, adjusted their passenger's position the slightest as they did so, and inquired as to her comfort. Are you still well? Our travel has been rather a long one.

Halcyon, mind a bottomless well of patience, awaited Ananke's answer. This did not prevent them from surveying the sight of the slumbering Drones encased in their chrysalises. Throat thrumming with fascination, they examined the features evident in their individual silhouettes. Quite different from their own, perfectly suited to their determined purpose: molded soldiers through and through, whereas they were a utility, fashioned for a more general use.

They wondered what new needs these would have compared to those already active. How might their performance be encouraged to its most optimal? What would ensure the absolute cohesion required for their particular unit, the first of a grand army? As Steward, every possible avenue of concern could not go unpondered, these the duties that fell to them as the watchful gaze over the infinitely branching network of the Hive.

Upon Mother's request that they report their activities, the calculations arising from those unfolding ruminations were suspended until later. As their hands could not clasp together, preoccupied with the Priestess's current place of residence, Halcyon settled on adjusting their posture to its most ramrod straight. Fins glowed golden, unwavering and content.

Greetings, Mother. I, Zero-Zero-Five Steward, and Zero-Zero-Two Priestess have planted the seeds for the expansion of our collective. The territory commonly referred to as Gemini has distributed throughout it multiple examples of Order's influence. These have been flourishing well due to our continued guidance and regular provisions of sustenance. As advised, we have our sights also on spreading our nests to other locations and have taken actions for such. Zero-Zero-Two Priestess can provide further details.

To maintain a sense of accomplishment, one must allow others to speak of their deeds. A joint operation, it was only fair to let Ananke state a portion of this report.