Chrysalis Chapter 1762 - Be At Peace

“Intriguing,” Enid whispered, holding the small glass container of liquid toward the light.

It possessed a stunning, iridescent crimson hue. Brimming with concentrated mana, even the faint aroma was sufficient to cause her head to swim. How extraordinary that the ants had discovered another wonder of Pangera and the Dungeon.

It sparked a warmth in her aging heart, stirring memories of her youth—the thrill of exploring the unknown with her husband by her side, adventuring and making discoveries. While he ventured into the deeper levels, she would wait for his return, excited to analyze the materials he brought back and search for potential buyers.

“Are there truly no side effects?” she inquired, pivoting to face Merchant, who was vibrating with excitement beside her.

“Naturally, there are side effects,” the ant replied, utilizing her pheromone-to-sound synthesizer. “We are still conducting research and analyzing the data, but so far, we have found that excessive application in a short period triggers… mutative results. Unchecked growth, eyes appearing in inconvenient places—even the occasional ear—that sort of thing.”

“That sounds quite dangerous.”

“However, in measured quantities, it appears completely harmless!” Merchant exclaimed eagerly. “This fluid has the potential to eliminate the ravages of age. With careful use, we could repair your heart, your knees, and alleviate your pain. The healers believe you might gain another decade of life!”

Merchant was evidently delighted, her antennae fluttering with vitality. Even on an ant's stoic face, her exuberance was unmistakable. Witnessing such genuine enthusiasm brought a smile to Enid’s tired face. Her student had become a source of comfort and purpose, and Enid felt profound gratitude for their bond. She understood what the ant truly desired, as did everyone: more time. Merchant simply wanted more time with her mentor and friend.

Unfortunately, Enid was a remarkably stubborn woman.

“I will not use it,” she stated softly, shaking her head.

Merchant went rigid, as if her mind struggled to process the rejection.

“B-... wh-... ah-... I beg your pardon?” she stammered, her voice stuttering with every attempt to speak.

Enid sighed and lowered her hand, setting the bottle of precious tonic upon the bedside table.

It would be a blessing to be free of pain, to breathe easily once more, and to regain her independence. Who wouldn’t trade everything they possessed for such a chance at rejuvenation?

Enid, as it turned out.

She waited patiently for Merchant to recover from the shock, ultimately reaching out to help the ant regain her composure.

“I am quite old, Merchant. But beyond age, I am exhausted. I have lived a full and long life. Like anyone, I harbor regrets—things I would change given another chance—but I am satisfied with the path I have traveled. I have no desire to continue. I am ready for the end.”

“N-no. You would perceive it differently if you weren’t in pain. We could restore you, and you would see! We can rejuvenate your memory and your joints. You could return to trading, assisting the Colony and aiding Renewal.”

“I have already performed those duties,” Enid remarked with a gentle smile. “I fulfilled them the best I could. Now, it falls to others to continue the work. Someone like you.”

“I was never prepared to take your place,” Merchant countered, “and even if I were, the task is incomplete! I am not half the trader you are.”

“You simply require experience,” Enid replied, waving away the ant’s worries with a frail, withered hand.

It was alarming how rapidly she was fading. Despite the best efforts of the healers, her health continued to wane. Her skin was marked by spots and was now so thin that any firm contact threatened to cause bruises or cuts that would never properly mend.

Yet, it was not merely her physical condition that drained her; she had simply… reached her finish line.

The world had shifted dramatically in recent years, and she never could have imagined finding herself deep underground, a cherished guest of a colossal colony of monstrous ants. After contributing all she could to help her people, Enid was content to let go. The world would manage well enough without her.

Merchant remained silent, fixated on the vial on the table. Her mind raced through a series of desperate thoughts. Could they compel Enid to take it? Perhaps. But such a violation of trust… it would irreparably damage their bond, not only between mentor and student but between Enid and the entire Colony. Was there a way to persuade her? Could the Eldest intervene? Surely, if the Eldest requested it, Enid would not refuse.

In her heart, she couldn’t fathom her teacher rejecting such a miracle. She could not be in her right mind! Yet, looking into those clear, resolute eyes, Merchant struggled to believe she was anything but totally lucid.

Still… Enid was essential. There was so much work ahead, so much she could help achieve. Merchant had grand designs, plans that could reshape the very face of Pangera!

“Aren’t you being a bit selfish?” she asked, caught between resentment and despair. “How can you abandon us when there is still so much to accomplish?”

Enid reached out, placing a palm atop her student’s head, resting it against the rigid carapace.

“I am permitted to be selfish,” she said, a playful spark in her eyes. “I am only human, after all.”