I Am The Swarm

Chapter 204: Investigation

The Riken had deployed a dozen small satellites in stationary orbit around the Great Dawn Planet, establishing a rudimentary communication network.

A leading re

“Dr. Lute, the search found an 85% similarity match.” A video showing a pack of Feral Direwolves resting on a plain appeared on Dr. Lute’s terminal.

“These must be them. Wow, there are quite a few of them,” Dr. Lute remarked. Since the Riken lacked prior data on the Great Dawn Planet’s fauna, the reconstructed image wouldn’t perfectly match the original. Still, an 80% similarity was enough for confirmation.

“Satellite data indicates that these creatures are spread across 325 locations on this continent, with a total population exceeding 500,000.”

“That many? What do they eat?” Dr. Lute was stunned. The sheer size of the Direwolves and their carnivorous dentition suggested a significant food requirement.

The AI promptly responded, “Based on calculations, these creatures are likely a food source for others. Probability: 79%.” A picture of a Bull Demon appeared on Dr. Lute’s display.

“Oh, what an intriguing species. If we could breed them on our homeworld, they’d surely sell for a high price. But plant resources are incredibly scarce on the homeworld.”

Dr. Lute quickly realized the economic potential of the Bull Demons. Millennia of industrial pollution had devastated the Riken homeworld’s environment. From birth, his diet had consisted almost entirely of synthetic meat, with rare occasions of real meat being a luxury.

“You’re right, Lute. These creatures are indeed valuable, but unfortunately, our homeworld no longer has any grasslands to sustain them,” Captain Reggie’s voice suddenly interjected through Dr. Lute’s communicator.

“Hey, Reggie, eavesdropping is a bad habit,” Dr. Lute quipped.

“I’m merely monitoring the progress of your work. It’s my duty as the captain and mission leader,” Captain Reggie replied flatly, showing no reaction to Dr. Lute’s jab.

Dr. Lute shrugged. Having known Reggie for years, he understood the captain’s personality. Continuing the topic would strain their friendship and only frustrate him further. “I need your authorization to command the security team—just the group accompanying me.”

“What do you plan to do?” Captain Reggie asked, puzzled.

“I need them to capture a few native creatures and bring them back to the ship for detailed analysis.”

“All right, but be careful.”