"Don't be nervous. This is Abathur, a master of biological modification and one of our own. He's essential to the Imperium's efforts to master Tyranid biotechnology."
Ron signaled for Kryfis and the others to calm down, lest they cause an unnecessary conflict or get hurt.
Under his influence and modifications, Abathur had evolved from a tiny Worker Bug into a synaptic node organism of the Tyranid Swarms, acquiring extensive genetic modification expertise.
With his true strength, he could easily thrash Kryfis and his bodyguards in this hive ecosystem.
Strictly speaking, Abathur could also be considered a hive mind, though he had never had the opportunity to command a hive of his own.
Especially a Hive Ship of this size.
"Sir, Abathur understands your misgivings about my appearance. But a life-form's true allegiance is determined not by its appearance, but by the heart hidden deep within its flesh."
Abathur scuttled over on his little legs, pressing his slender jointed limbs together before his chest as he looked down slightly at Kryfis and the others.
He was not offended by these Imperial soldiers' attitudes. He even displayed a certain elegance, speaking in an awkward blend of formal and colloquial language.
Clearly, he had studied the Imperium's language diligently, along with the Old Terran idioms and classical literature popular among Imperial nobles.
After bowing deeply to Ron, Abathur continued explaining, "I was once a slave of the Tyranid Swarms. It was the Great Savior,
the Master of the Swarms, who saved me, freeing me from slavery and granting me free will.
Now I serve the Imperium, taking it upon myself to end The Great Devourer's destructive deeds. This is the duty of every loyal soul.
We shall use biotechnology to build a harmonious universe and create a wonderful life for Imperial Citizens-"
Abathur's