"Wow, this is a whole lot less ant than I was expecting," Ari said to himself as he looked around. "Based on how the military system is set up here, the worker ants greatly outnumber the military ants—about ten to one. Not to mention, the population of the colony in this world is really small. I'd say around roughly six thousand or less."
"I wonder what kind of training they have in mind for us, and also, why did Anastasia give away the last memory of her father to me? I'm not worthy of it," he said to himself as he took out the mandibles and stared at them.
"Wait, you there! Over here! I've been looking everywhere for you!" shouted a female ant as she dashed toward Ari along with a male ant.
"Um… how can I help you?"
"You're that ant who's not part of the colony, named Ari, right?" asked the female ant.
"Yes, but how did you know?" asked Ari.
"It shouldn't be a surprise to you. You were the one who came up with the strategy to defeat Queen Helena's army. You're quite the big deal around here," said the male ant.
"Not to mention, with zero combat training, you were on the battlefield and even took on General Ivan to give Commander Anastasia the upper hand in the fight. You're such a courageous ant," said the female ant.
"While we were hiding with our tails between our legs, you stood your ground despite this not being your own colony, and you led all of us to victory. Thank you," said the male ant with a smile.
"And your actions were what motivated us to join the army. That's why we're here," said the female ant.
"That's great. I'm glad I was a good influence on you guys," said Ari.
"Oh, that's right—I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Isla. I was an exceptional worker ant for two years, but I became of age to enroll in the army, and you provided the catalyst for that."
"And my name is Rory. I was in training to be a warden ant. I tried to play it safe because I was afraid of the unknown dangers outside the colony, but your courage encouraged me to venture outside and fight for it."
"Oh, I see. Nice to meet you both," said Ari.
As the ants continued to chatter, their voices echoed throughout the colony.
"Silence!" shouted Anastasia as she stood above the mass.
The entire population of recruits acknowledged her, and all talking ceased.
"For those who don't know, my name is Anastasia, commander of the Queen's military ants. I was promoted from lieutenant after our clash with the neighboring colony.
"As you all know, our former commander of the military ants was Vladimir, who was tasked with protecting the princess. However, due to his recent treason, we lost a high-value soldier, making our colony significantly weaker in military power and more susceptible to enemy attacks.
"The only remaining high-ranking soldiers are myself, Seth—the commander of the warden ants, who is still recovering from his injuries—and five lieutenants. We are hoping to increase both our quantity and quality, so please work hard toward that goal.
"I have been put in charge of getting you battle-ready by our Queen. I should be overseeing your training to ensure that. Here with me is Corporal Beatrice, who will be leading your training. The few who come out on top will be taken under my wing. Is that clear?"
"Yes, Commander!" shouted the mass.
"That's great. I love your enthusiasm.
"For the first part of your training, you will be traveling in troops of thirty in separate directions for five days. You will then have three days to return to the colony, after which we will move on to the next step.
"There will be a unique type of plant marking the checkpoint in each direction. It will serve as proof that you have reached your assigned distance.
"Failure to collect those plants and return within the time limit will result in immediate termination from the training," said Anastasia.
"What? But how are we supposed to last so long?" asked a worried ant.
"If we've been given such a long time limit, does that mean we'll be traveling really far?" asked another.
"What if there are other insects out there that will harm us?"
"Silence. You knew what you were getting yourselves into, so stop acting like spineless cowards. You were born with mandibles for a reason. If you are attacked, you'll have to rely on each other and trust your instincts to survive.
"You have ten minutes to form your squads and move out," said Anastasia.
"Wow, Anastasia is really serious about this. She's like a completely different person when it comes to military business," Ari thought to himself.
"Well, I guess we'll be sticking with you on this journey then," said Isla with a smile.
"Yes, we're better off staying with Ari anyway," said Rory.
"Okay, let's make it back together in one piece," said Ari.
"Alright, now that the squads are formed, you may leave," said Anastasia as the ants started jogging to commence their journey.
"Alright, this is it. My first expedition as an ant. I must be cautious," Ari thought to himself.
While collecting berries on the outskirts of the colony, Evelyn noticed Ari running by in the squad.
"Hey, Ari! Look up here!" she shouted.
Ari noticed her and waved in her direction.
"Be safe, Ari! And please don't die on this journey—come back to us safely!" Evelyn shouted while continuing to wave.
"Say, Anastasia," said Beatrice.
"What is it, Beatrice?" asked Anastasia.
"Do you think they'll be alright on this voyage?" asked Beatrice, concerned.
"I understand your concern, but they should be fine. The route I've provided them with consists of areas we have already scouted. An encounter with another ant or even any insect is highly unlikely," said Anastasia.
"I'll take your word for it," said Beatrice.