Chrysalis

By the time the carvers return to finish the defensive works on the platform, I am a wreck.

And I don't mean in the emotional sense. I mean, I am physically and mentally a wreck.

Monster activity rose day by day, and the Krath egged it on, leading hordes and hordes of monsters to descend on us, taking pot shots and using their foul magic when they got the chance. I've been doused in acid and slime so many times I'm worried it's starting to seep into my diamond carapace!

Despite my best efforts, the platform has suffered significant damage. By the time the build teams return, massive chunks have been blasted out of the diamond coating and two of the intakes have been destroyed. I've done everything I could to take the heat off the battalions and keep the Templars safe, but the toxicity levels in the fifth have gotten so high I can no longer step into the mana for more than a minute at a time. That means I'm fighting on the front, trying to take as much punishment as I can to keep the others safe.

It's been… brutal.

The other platforms, without the aid of my magnificent self, have suffered even worse. We managed to avoid losing any ants to capture, but injuries and even casualties have been high. When the walls and defensive embankments are finally done, I can't help but collapse to the floor.

I need a holiday.

"Looks like you've been working hard, Eldest," Tungstant says as she walks over.

She's been here managing the build teams for the past few days, and as I look over to her, my antennae go stiff with shock.

"Holy moly, Tungstant! Are you alright?"

about, Eldest?

says, but her carapace has gone grey! I swear I can see the spectre of death hanging over her shoulder.

like you're barely hanging onto life! Your legs are shaking and your antennae are dragging on the ground! What the

been working hard along with the other builders. Don't worry… we've been

single one of them looks as if they are on the brink of falling straight into their own

Tungstant waves me

Eldest. The fortress is just about finished now. A few

final touches? On what, their gravestones?! This cannot be allowed to

I yell, pointing at Tungstant and several nearby work

healers, carvers and generals all freeze, wondering who

Eldest?" Tungstant says, staggering to the side a little. "What are

Shadows begin to gather.

demand. "All of the build teams need the full treatment. If they keep

edges of my vision as the lights begin

remains pleasant, completely oblivious to the gathering danger. This is

then blinks back to light in an instant. Tungstant and the rest of the build teams are gone, vanished without a trace. The surrounding ants and militia stare at the empty space left behind by

same as I could.

to do. Bah. Who cares? If anything, maybe now they'll