THE JOINT EFFORTS OF TWO COLONIES

The sun rose over the colony, casting a golden glow across the bustling underground tunnels and chambers. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation and determination. Today marked a historic moment for both Helena's and Celeste's colonies—a joint effort that would not only solidify their alliance but also determine their survival through the harsh winter ahead.

After days of tireless work constructing wheeled containers for transporting food, both Queen Helena and Queen Celeste convened to discuss the final preparations. Their decision was a symbol of unity: the food gathered would be split equally between the two colonies. This act would serve as proof that the treaty was beneficial to both sides, fostering cooperation and trust between their respective subjects.

Seated upon their thrones in the grand hall, the queens faced each other, surrounded by their trusted advisors, elder ants, and high-ranking military personnel. General Ivan stood tall beside Queen Helena, his expression unreadable as he listened to the discussions. Commander Anastasia, Corporal Lily, and other key figures from Celeste's colony stood at attention, absorbing the final details of the expedition.

"We must decide who will oversee this critical operation," Queen Helena declared, her voice carrying a regal authority. "It is imperative that we send our most capable leaders."

Queen Celeste nodded in agreement. "Indeed. This mission will be our first major military collaboration since the treaty. Both colonies must feel secure in knowing that those in charge can execute their duties efficiently."

After a moment of consideration, Helena made her decision. "Commander Ruth from my colony will take command on my behalf. Though our military is still rebuilding, she has proven herself as a capable and level-headed strategist."

Celeste turned to her own ranks, her gaze scanning her available officers before settling on Lieutenant Brooks. "Lieutenant Brooks will serve as our representative.he is one of our best Military ant and his experience in coordinating large-scale operations will be invaluable to ensuring this expedition runs smoothly."

The appointed commander and lieutenant exchanged nods, their expressions firm. The room was filled with a sense of purpose—this was more than just a resource-gathering mission. It was a demonstration of trust and strength between two once-opposing factions.

With leadership established, the next matter to address was the number of troops and workers being sent. Given that Helena's military was still recovering from previous conflicts, her forces were limited. As a result, she was only able to deploy 55 soldiers to accompany the mission.

On the other hand, Celeste's colony, being in a more stable position, was able to provide 110 soldiers—twice the amount of Helena's forces. Among these soldiers were Ari, Rory, Isla,all of whom were finally seeing real military action beyond the confines of training and Corporal Beatrice.

Anastasia, being the strongest military ant in Celeste's colony, had been assigned the crucial task of guarding their home base. She couldn't afford to leave, as her presence was a deterrent against potential threats. Corporal Lily, valuing defense just as much, also volunteered to stay behind, ensuring that the colony's security remained uncompromised.

To support the transportation of food supplies, a workforce of 825 worker ants had been assembled—five times the number of soldiers. These worker ants would be the backbone of the mission, ensuring that the newly constructed wheeled containers functioned as intended and that supplies were properly loaded and transported.

Today was the day. The expedition was finally about to begin.

On the day of the expedition Ari stood amongst the gathering troops, his mind swirling with thoughts of what lay ahead. This was no longer training—this was a real mission, where failure could have severe consequences. He was not in the slightest fearful to lose his life however, he wondered if he could protect everyone.

Standing beside him, Isla fidgeted anxiously, her antennae twitching with unease. "I'm really nervous about this," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "This is our first actual mission as soldiers…"

Rory, ever the steady one, placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Just take a deep breath. You'll be okay," he said with confidence.

Beatrice, standing nearby, crossed her arms and gave Isla a firm look. "He's right. This isn't training anymore, Isla. This is reality. You don't have time for fear or worrying. Anything can happen at any moment. So be vigilant. Be courageous."

Isla swallowed hard but nodded, knowing Beatrice was right.

Ari, lost in thought, was suddenly pulled back to reality by the sound of a familiar voice.

"Ari!"

Turning his head, he saw Princess Tanya approaching, her bright, regal presence unmistakable even among the crowd of soldiers. She raised her hand and gestured for him to come closer.

As he stepped forward, she smiled warmly. "I see you're a full-fledged soldier now in our colony. I'm so glad. Congratulations."

Ari felt a strange warmth in his chest at her words. He had come a long way from the moment he first reincarnated into this world, and her recognition of his progress meant more to him than he realized. "Thank you," he said sincerely.

Tanya hesitated for a moment before extending her hand, revealing a small, glistening object. "Here, take this," she said.

Ari took the item, inspecting it curiously. "What's this?"

"It's a rare gem I found while digging as a kid," she explained.

Ari looked at her, puzzled. "I see… but why give something so precious to me?"

Tanya's smile softened. "Think of it as a lucky charm for your expedition today. Just stay safe and stay out of trouble, Ari."

Ari studied the gem for a moment before tucking it away carefully. "Thanks for your concern, but I'll be fine," he assured her. "Take care, Princess." With that, he turned and rejoined his formation.

As Ari settled back into place, he suddenly felt someone wrap their arms around him from behind. A playful, teasing voice whispered into his ear.

"Guess who?"

Ari instantly recognized the voice. "Evelyn?"

The arms released him, and he turned to see the familiar face of Evelyn, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "You're going on the winter collection mission too?" he asked, surprised.

"Of course I am!" Evelyn grinned. "I mean, I'm part of the colony now, all thanks to you. Both Grandpa and I finally have our freedom."

Ari blinked, realizing just how much had changed. Evelyn, who had once been an outsider, now stood among them, her place secured within the colony.

Evelyn chuckled. "Wow, I can't believe it. You've gotten a whole lot taller since the last time I saw you."

Ari smirked. "I could say the same for you."

She playfully nudged him. "Well, at least I feel much safer knowing you'll be there to protect us."

Ari couldn't help but chuckle. "I'll do my best."

The crowd of soldiers and workers soon fell silent as Commander Ruth and Lieutenant Brooks stepped onto the elevated platform, ready to deliver their briefing.

Commander Ruth, her posture rigid with discipline, surveyed the troops before speaking. "Today, we embark on a mission that will test our unity and strength. We are two colonies, once divided, now working together for a common goal. This expedition will determine not only our survival but the future of our alliance."

Lieutenant Brooks stepped forward next. "Our primary objective is the safe and efficient collection of food supplies. We will be moving in formation, ensuring that no worker ant is left unprotected. Remember, teamwork is key. We are not just representing ourselves—we are representing our queens, our colonies, and our future."

A resounding cheer erupted from the assembled soldiers and workers, the energy in the air electric with determination.

Ari clenched his fists, feeling the weight of the moment settle over him. This was it. His first real mission as a soldier.

And he was ready.