Take a Breath

Glad you could join us for the next restful episode of Elliot’s Adventures. If you’re new here, you can catch up by returning to the beginning, and reading really fast…

Beneath the churning web, agony’s wail rode the final unbreaking wave as it crossed the field to leave behind the silent, still shallows of death. The enemy Flyers who dared to attack its surface learned too late that the struggle to destroy it only drew the attacker further under. Those who witnessed it from above soon retreated toward The Arids.

Vernon and Ambassador Arturo waited at the web’s edge where an escaping whisper of breath hinted at the Wildlands ants’ approach. Commandant Marabunta was the first to emerge.

Bowing from the waist, the Ambassador said, “The Alliance thanks you from its many hearts, and welcomes you to Fen. We would be honored to have you join our coalition, but we are pleased to honor our agreement regardless of your choice.”

The Commandant’s antennae waved with her head’s nod. “After we complete our task and take count of our survivors, we will discuss your invitation and bring you our decision.” She lifted her face to the sky and inhaled. “They will return, you know.”

“We believe so,” Arturo agreed.

A command echoed around the field, and thousands of Weavers entered from every side to retrieve the silk. Only when they were finished could the ants clear the battle’s remains.

Clifford dropped from the swarm that had protected the Hive and was now effecting repairs and reinforcements against the next onslaught.

“Vernon, Auntie—” He looked around. “Her Magnificence asks that you meet with her in the Hive.”

Without a word, the Queen’s Liaison rose and dashed away.

To be continued. . .

Previously, on Elliot’s Adventures