The colony's numbers had risen to:
• 47 Worker Ants: Each the size of a human finger, versatile and efficient in transport and general work.
• 78 Digger Ants: A third the size of a finger, now the main workforce after tunneling operations were mostly complete.
• 16 Soldier Ants: The size of a human palm, forming the backbone of the colony's defenses.
• 3 Army Ants: Towering over the others, each as large as a palm with fingers combined, the colony's most formidable warriors.
The digger ants, though initially specialized for excavation, had transitioned into general laborers, complementing the worker ants. Worker ants focused on transporting food and materials from the forest to the colony under the protection of soldiers and army ants.
In the map room, progress was being made on a hand-drawn map. Though crude, it served its purpose by marking areas of interest, predator habitats, and other significant locations. Gerhan planned to expand these markings further, particularly in dangerous regions, to better prepare for future excursions.
While using a controlled digger ant perched in a tree, Gerhan spotted five wolves approaching the colony. They moved silently along shadowy paths, their figures barely visible in the dim light of the setting sun. Though their intent wasn't clear, Gerhan knew the rising strength of his colony must have attracted attention.
These wolves appeared different from the pack he'd observed earlier—there was no sign of the large brown wolf, which suggested this might be an independent group. Nevertheless, they were a significant threat, and Gerhan couldn't afford to take any chances.
He immediately issued instructions for the colony to prepare for battle. This confrontation would test the colony's strength, and failure could mean disaster.
Gerhan mobilized nearly all his forces, leaving the workers to guard the interior of the colony and care for the eggs, larvae, and supplies. He reinforced the entrance with twigs, branches, and dirt to make a rudimentary barrier, though he was uncertain how effective it would be against wolves.
• Front Line: The 3 army ants led the charge, their immense size and strength designed to intimidate and crush.
• Second Line: The 16 soldier ants were stationed behind the army ants, ready to support the front line and hold the position if the army ants fell.
• Flanking Forces: 20 worker ants were positioned to maneuver around the wolves, aiming to encircle and overwhelm them with sheer numbers.
• Reserve Force: The remaining 20 worker ants were kept as reinforcements or for utility tasks, such as distracting or harassing the wolves.
• Gerhan's Personal Guard: Seven worker ants were assigned to remain near Gerhan, ensuring his safety in case the wolves broke through the defenses.
Despite his careful planning, Gerhan couldn't shake the sense of unease. The wolves were powerful predators, and his colony was still growing. But he reassured himself—this battle would not only secure the colony's safety but also send a clear message to other creatures in the area.
The sun dipped lower on the horizon, painting the forest in hues of orange and shadow. The wolves crept closer, their forms now clearly visible to Gerhan's controlled ant. His forces stood ready, mandibles twitching, as the battle for survival loomed.