Evolution begins with an ant colony

Chapter 40: The ten ant guardians

Akun’s attention drifted toward a solitary ant within the anthill as he engaged in a conversation with the system.

He leaned forward slightly, his hands gesturing inquisitively.

"So, what do you think, system? How would different monster cores with various beast souls affect the ants’ skills and appearances?"

[ndeed, player. Depending on the specific type of beast soul contained within the core, the ants’ abilities and physical characteristics could undergo significant changes. For example, if you were to infuse them with the soul of a Fire Wolf, their offensive capabilities might be enhanced. They could have fiery attacks or increased resistance to heat.]

"Interesting. How about a more unique core, like that of a Thunder Beetle?"

[A Thunder Beetle’s beast soul could potentially imbue the ants with electric abilities. They might gain the capacity to generate and control electricity, allowing for stunning attacks or even enhanced communication within the colony.]

"And how would these differences manifest in their appearance?"

[The appearance changes would be influenced by the nature of the beast soul. For instance, with a Fire Wolf’s soul, their exoskeleton might take on a reddish tint, and there could be faint fiery patterns along their bodies. With a Thunder Beetle’s soul, they might exhibit electric-blue highlights and small arcs of electricity that course through their forms.]

"Amazing. Are there any other notable beast souls you’d recommend considering?"

[Certainly. A Frost Serpent’s soul could grant them ice-related abilities, possibly enabling them to create freezing attacks or manipulate frost. A Shadow Panther’s soul might allow them to move stealthily and even blend into shadows. A Crystal Golem’s soul could bolster their defenses and render their exoskeletons harder, similar to crystal.]

"So many intriguing options... I want to ensure I make the right choices for their evolution."

[Your decisions will shape the colony’s path. It’s important to assess what strengths you wish to prioritize based on the challenges they may face.]

Akun’s gaze remained on the ant as he contemplated the array of possibilities that lay ahead for the evolution of his ant companions.

Akun’s curiosity persisted as he inquired further about the possibility of multiple evolutions for the ants.

"Hey, system, could ants undergo multiple evolutions?"

[No, player. The capacity for multiple evolutions in rapid succession is a feature unique to your own circumstances. The system’s intervention and functions have enabled such a progression. If you wish to extend this capability to the ants, you would need to enhance and upgrade the system itself.]

"I see, so it’s not a natural occurrence for them."

[Correct. The usual evolutionary paths for monsters involve more gradual transitions and stages. Your situation benefits from the direct interaction with the system, allowing for accelerated and varied evolutions.]

"I can’t give someone who looks like my mother another name, yet I wouldn’t want to burden another person with my mother’s name," he mused, his gestures reflecting his inner turmoil.

With a heavy sigh, he turned back to her, his gaze searching her eyes. "But I also can’t keep calling you ’Queen’ all the time. It’s not fair to you. So... I’ll find a name for you, something that’s just yours."

His words held a mixture of determination and vulnerability, as if he was grappling with his own memories and desires. He wanted to honor the Queen’s request, but he also wanted to protect the memories he held dear.

His eyes met the Queen’s, and in that moment, a name emerged from the depths of his being. He spoke it softly, as if bestowing a gift upon her and the memories she represented. "Nadalin," he said, his voice carrying a blend of warmth and solemnity.

With the name given, Akun turned and walked out of the anthill, the weight of his decision lingering in the air. He instructed Leona, his expression determined and his purpose clear.

"Gather all the ants you can find," he said. "I need to choose ten of them who will stand as protectors of the anthill while I’m away."

Ember and Ivy exchanged curious glances, their questions left unspoken. Akun caught their gaze and grinned, a hint of mystery in his eyes. "Where are you going?" Ember asked, unable to hide his curiosity.

Akun’s smile remained enigmatic. "It’s a secret," he replied, the anticipation of his plans dancing in his eyes.

As Leona diligently gathered the selected ants, Akun rose into the air, his Aspect powers lifting him effortlessly. From this vantage point, he surveyed the anthill, his gaze unwavering and focused. With his dragon eyes activated, he delved into the intricate web of stats that defined each ant’s potential.

Once back on the ground, he called for Ember,

Leona, Ivy, Oliver, Zara, Kael, Luna, Finn, Mara, and Gideon.

As they gathered around him, Akun’s expression became serious, his voice firm yet respectful. "I’ve chosen you all because you possess unique talents and strengths that can protect our home while I’m away. I’m going to enhance those abilities and create a force to be reckoned with."

His gaze shifted from one face to another, a sense of determination burning in his eyes. "Our anthill is our haven, our sanctuary. And it’s time we make it impervious to any threat that comes our way."

Akun looked at each of them, a mix of seriousness and concern in his gaze. "Are you all ready for this?" Their responses came in unison, a resounding chorus of determination. "Yes, boss!"

With a nod, Akun turned his attention to the system. "Initiate the evolution process for all of them using the ten most powerful beast souls we have." The system’s response was swift, yet loaded with anticipation.

[Processing....]

As the digital processing unfolded, Akun addressed his team. "Hold your horses, everyone. This might sting a little."

(A/N: Let me know what you think in the comments pls)