Kai arrived to the political meeting 17 minutes late. The other world leaders were already assembled on their netscreens, staring at him with disapproval, as well as Torin, looking at him sternly
"Your Highness...how nice of you to join us."
???: "Is it really true that the queen is on Earth?"
"Yes. She, along with her Thaumaturge, are currently residing within the Eastern Commonwealth."
???: "It does seem that she is more amenable to a peace agreement with the Eastern Commonwealth than anywhere else...but has have her terms changed at all?"
"No. Her aim continues to be a marriage alliance with the Emperor."
???: "Ah...well...I think you should see this-"
Images appeared on the screen. They were taken from Luna's orbit, most likely from a space station. The photos showed rows and rows of men standing attention. No-not men. Whatever these were, they weren't men anymore. Their backs were large and broad, hairy. Large, cruel fangs glinted, hands ending in curved claws.