Chrysalis

Chapter 79

Now that I know I can talk to my colony members, even if they can’t talk back, I don’t hold back and start to throw words at every worker I meet on my way into the nest.

"Hey, how are yor?"

Still needs a bit of work on that one.

"Hoos that work goging for yar?"

So close!

"Blice to see you ablarn".

Nearly had it!

As I wander about cheerfully greeting the ants around me they typically respond in the same way, by turning and tapping me about the antennae before going back on their way.

I’m not really fussed by the lack of response to my blather, just talking and getting the hang of my new mutation is reward enough for me.

Checking in on the brood I can see the little grubs are looking a little larger and a little less sad than they were before, pleasingly plump and growing they’ll become new workers soon enough.

After shouting "See you flater!" to the workers I make my way down to the Queens chamber. By this time I’ve gotten used to saying whatever is on my mind to every ant I see so when I walk in front of the Queen, who is standing still and accepting a grooming for her attendant workers I give a friendly wave of the antennae and say "Hey there! How’s it hambing Queen?"

The enormous ant turns her head slowly and ponderously before looking down at me with her large, unblinking eyes.

"Hambing?" she said.

....

"Uhhhh".

.....

She can talk?

The Queen continues to look down at me quizzically as I stare dumbfounded.

"Hambing?" she asks again.

This sensation of talking and listening using scent is very different to what I’m used to. When the Queen speaks I’m finding my antennae are not only able to distinguish the words she is speaking but also the difference in tone and voice. Her voice sounds patient and warm.

not make a mistake in my

your, uh,

away and once again

this as a mutation advancement or is it something that she gets

to

Queen, uh. How are

apparently the best I can come

troubles herself to

Are you well?" she

almost giddy. A conversation! An actual

uh, I’m good! I mean,

am glad" she says, before beginning

I get some

to a giant monster ant is a little more difficult than

isn’t human and unlike me, she never was. I’m not exactly sure how her mind works, what it is that is important to her. She’s probably not even that old, I mean,

evolve! I just wondered if you,

respond for a long moment and I was starting to think I might need to repeat

a strong core in you" she

"Uh.... Yes?" I respond.

wish, and continue

I’m not certain what

in the words

strength will improve the lives of our people. To the colony, it matters

one last pat on the head with her antennae. I think I’ve gotten all the help

make my way

having my first conversation in months, I have to say

give a rats ass which one you pick, as

it just comes down to

want to a commander or do I

general or

mean, when I think about it

are talking about... MAGIC. I could lord over the battlefield like a friggin’ god if I can throw fireballs

want to be a magic user

is the only

the same as I left it. Tiny still sleeping and the traps are prepared but without any prey for

Excellent.

your doubt Anthony! Commence the

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