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.]

"Got it. Thanks for clarifying."

With this newfound understanding, Akun contemplated the implications of his privileged connection to the system and how it offered him opportunities beyond the norm for both himself and his ant companions.

As Akun pondered, his thoughts raced in a whirlwind of ideas. "Every kingdom in every game I've ever played had those legendary figures, those guardians who stood at the forefront. Why not create something similar for the anthill?" He considered his plan further. "I'll replace the ants with exceptional talents, ones who stand out.

With the right enhancements, they could become the protectors of the colony while I'm gone.

A determined expression crossed his face as he thought ahead. "I want to step out of this forest using the silver puppet I forged a few days ago, so in a few hours I'll have to put this team together."

Amidst his resolute determination, Akun's thoughts turned practical. "The challenge lies in identifying these exceptional ants among the thousands in the colony," he pondered. "It won't be an easy task, but it's a necessary one."

Suddenly, a realization hit him like a lightning bolt – he possessed the unique advantage of his dragon eyes. A wry smile crossed his lips as he pondered the solution.

"I can gather all the ants together, both the evolved and the not evolved ones, and with my dragon eyes, I can simultaneously analyze their status windows," he mused aloud. The idea had an air of practicality that sparked excitement within him.

"That way, I can quickly identify the cream of the crop, the ones with the most promising skills and attributes."

It was as if a weight had lifted from his shoulders. With this approach, he could efficiently select a small, elite group from the colony, paving the way for their enhanced evolution. "Ten ants, that's a good start," he nodded to himself, impressed with the potential effectiveness of his strategy.

He was now armed with a plan, and the anticipation of seeing his ants flourish with newfound strength filled him with motivation.

"But, before I proceed with this plan, I think it would be better if the queen gave me some space," he suggested, his gaze shifting toward the queen ant who stood behind him.

The queen ant, as if sensing his request, responded with a mixture of wisdom and maternal concern. "As your mother, it is my duty to be attentive to the well-being of all my children," she explained, her voice gentle but firm. "I shall observe from a distance, Akun, for your decisions have a profound impact on our colony."

With a slightly irritated tone, Akun retorted, "Sheesh, I know that. But technically you aren't.

You just remind me of someone from my past, that's all." He shifted his gaze, slightly embarrassed by his slip-up, and continued, "But fine, if you want to hover around, go ahead." It was clear that the familiarity of his past life sometimes blurred into his interactions in this new world, even when it came to the complex relationships among the ants.

As Akun began to walk away, the queen noticed and quickly moved to follow him. Anticipating her actions, Akun turned to her and quipped, "And you should stop following me around.

I might slightly agree with the notion of you being my mother, but I absolutely can't handle you tailing me everywhere I go." His words carried a mixture of amusement and exasperation, as he tried to establish some personal space within the anthill

The Queen responded with determination, "I will keep following you until you give me a name."

Akun's mind raced as he pondered the situation. He thought to himself, "I would have given her a name ages ago if it meant she'd stop following me around." He looked at her with conflicted emotions, the face that resembled his mother's adding a layer of complexity to his thoughts. He raised his hand to rub his forehead, feeling the weight of the situation.

"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 replace 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 replace," 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)