Chapter 51: Observation
At Luo Wen’s command, tens of thousands of Burrower Ants were the first to be mobilized, heading to the construction site of the new Brood Nest.
They were soon joined by over twenty thousand Worker Ants tasked with logistical support. These ants were responsible for transporting food to meet the daily needs of the Burrower Ants. Additionally, they handled soil relocation and the reinforcement of newly dug tunnels.
In the past, Luo Wen personally led the excavation of the hive. However, now that he commanded tens of thousands of subordinates, there was no need for the highest-ranking commander to dirty his claws.
Although there was no longer anything in the vicinity that could threaten the hive, Luo Wen maintained his characteristically cautious style.
At a depth of three meters underground, the Burrower Ants constructed an impressive labyrinth of tunnels, intended as a decoy and transit hub—a fake Brood Nest.
The real Brood Nest was located three to four meters below the fake one. This true hive, also a network of tunnels, was connected to the decoy by a single passage. Both ends of the passage were stocked with loose soil, ready to be sealed at a moment’s notice.
A team of Spy Bugs and Burrower Ants was stationed there permanently. Their mission was to seal the passage and deploy misleading pheromones if intruders breached the decoy, ensuring the true hive remained hidden.
Luo Wen didn’t see this strategy as overly cautious—it was simply prudent.
He was wary of the Yellow Earth Ant Legion atop the cliff. If one day they lost their footing and charged straight down the slope, Luo Wen’s hive would be their first target.