Chapter 18: The Next Goal
Alvaric sat cross-legged in the center of the hive's main chamber, his eyes gleaming as he watched Niva gather dry twigs and a few stones that sparked when rubbed together. With swift hands, Niva built a small fire that quickly grew into a stable flame.
"You're really dependable," praised Alvaric, handing over a raw rabbit to roast over the fire.
It had been a long time since he'd eaten properly cooked meat. He could already imagine how delicious the roasted rabbit would taste. Although, the rabbit here was different from those on Earth. It had horns and a tail like a rat's. But Alvaric didn't mind—he had eaten Sand Crawlers, after all. This was nothing.
Niva smiled proudly. "Of course, my Lord. I won't disappoint you."
The scent of roasting meat began to fill the room, making Alvaric's stomach growl. The nearby Ant Bees sniffed curiously at the unfamiliar aroma. A few even approached, trying to touch the fire, but quickly pulled back their claws after feeling the heat.
"Don't get too close! You'll get burned," Alvaric warned with a laugh.
Once the rabbit was cooked, Alvaric shared it with Niva. They devoured it eagerly, while the Ant Bees munched on their own raw food.
He wanted to share, but there was only one rabbit. And there were hundreds of Ant Bees nearby. Not to mention the thousands in other chambers.
Rather than give it to one and make the others jealous, it was better to enjoy the rabbit with Niva alone.
While Alvaric was eating, something touched his thigh. He turned and saw an Ant Bee gently placing a paw on him.
"What is it?" asked Alvaric.