To the root

[Anastasia]

It seems to come down to something remarkable - these creatures are so closely together at times that they memorize spells together. A pair - almost always a male and a female, though sometimes more or same sex pairs form - memorize magic together. It's no stronger and with no greater number than the sum of the parts, but they seem to naturally mix and combine it in a fascinating way.

The dwarf-ants seem made to do this. It's entirely a natural, internal, instinctual process for them.

[Iron Dragoon]

"Amazing. The way you interact with each other's magic is astounding. I've never seen anything like it. It's something to be proud of."

[Anastasia]

"Thank you, ma'am," The dwarf-ant bows to you, "It is how we do this. Is it that amazing?"

[Iron Dragoon]

"It is. The closest I've seen is what my old Arcane Order used to do. They would each cast the spell and then funnel the power together. But your way splits the cost of the spell up. An entirely different thing. It's fascinating."

[Anastasia]

"Thank you," A faint smile, "How else can we accomplish Queen's will in serving you?"

[Iron Dragoon]

"We just want learn about you."

[Anastasia]

As Emily watches, "Why don't you tell us about yourself?"

At that a mere bow of her head, "There's little to tell. It is not even a year since Queen awoke us all. Our history is new and our Queen's guidance is firm and wise. She carries us through storm and trial, for she is the font of life that we have all drank from."

[Iron Dragoon]

Alyssa nods, "Less than a year... you've advanced magic and smithing this far in just a year?"

[Anastasia]

"Advanced? This comes naturally to us," Is the answer, "Queen has guided us, but it is our own talents. She has told us that."

"Hmm..." Emily's quiet at that before you hear her anew.

She's right. Unless Queen has great insight to magic and crafting, as well as vast ability as a teacher, it's too soon to be anything but innate ability. All of this feels how a hive of ants might make magic and magical items.

[Iron Dragoon]

Yes. More akin to outsiders, perhaps. Still, the speed of advancement is odd.

"I foresee great things for your people once you go out into the planes. When you do, I'll extend an offer to Queen for my realm to be one of the first."

[Anastasia]

I'm not sure they aren't spirits already.

"Thank you, you honor us and you rightfully honor Queen," The dwarf-ant bows her head again.

[Iron Dragoon]

Perhaps. Certainly something to look into.

"Well, she's not the only Queen around here."

[Anastasia]

"Excuse me," Another dwarf ant approaches. This one wears a blindfold over his eyes but walks forward firmly, "By Queen's command, I am here to retrieve you, Lady Alyssa and Lady Emily."

[Iron Dragoon]

Alyssa inclines her head, "Let's go. It was a pleasure."

[Anastasia]

Once out the dwarf ant says, "I am Queen's Seer. I understand what it is you wish to do by Queen's will."