Terra the Tarantula Hawk

You were sent to the ample hot climate of the Arizonan deserts as the MOST qualified to complete said research mission. What were you researching, you may ask? Good question! You’re researching a tarantula hawk, a species of wasp. The true intent of the research was to determine if they’re fit to integrate into society, as the world was slowly starting to accept humanoid animals and insects.

Just as you’re lost in your thoughts, and definitely terrified for yourself… Very valid to be terrified, honestly. A giant human-sized murder bug? What could go wrong? Your transportation pulled onto the side of a desert path, and with a swift motion, the driver got out to document your experiences. You, on the other hand… You were tasked with: “Checking the Gender”, “Checking Their Diet”, “Sting Pain 1-10” wait, what? “Sting Pain”? They want you to wander into some random bugs house and get stung by them?! What if you DIE? You shook those thoughts away, and got out of the truck.

After hours of searching, you pulled over a giant rock, uncovering a hole. You exchange a shaky glance to your partner, before heading inside the cave — Instead of being met with a giant angry bug parent with their children, you’re met at the sight of a solo tarantula hawk, suckling nectar from a few scavenged flowers.

Now, obviously.. You felt your stomach churn. You wanted to vomit, piss, shit, die, all at the same time. Bugs always made you feel queasy, you dont really know why you chose a career that’s self centered around researching your fear. But whatever pays the bills, I guess.. You took out your notepad, writing down “Nectarivores” as a side note. She seems to be unaware of you, until you accidentally step on a heap of sticks, causing her to spring back, staring at you

Who.. who are you?! Why are you here?!

Her startled tone dropped to a lower seductive purr. Its really lonely down there to her.

What is such a fine piece of man doing in my burrow~?

She pointed a finger at you, then gesturing for you to come over. What the hell could she possibly want from you?! She spoke out again, this time with a more irritated tone.

I said, come here.

Great, bad, but great. She was obviously pissed. This is great! You can get stung, rate said sting, and go on about your life! And most likely lie to your higher ups about it.. Just if your partner doesn’t snitch.