A Bug's Life: A New Beginning

by sbainbridge90

The story continues as we return to Ant Island 3 years after the events of A Bug's Life. Flik's Colony enjoyed independence from the grasshoppers since Hopper's death. But, an unknown enemy acting on Hopper's behalf threatens to destroy Flik. Now Flik has to use all his tricks and enlist the help of both old and new friends to stop the grasshoppers once and for all.

5. Chapter 5: Meanwhile Outside the City

With sunset drawing nigh, Flik and Eric were trudging along toward the city through the grasslands.

"What is that?" Eric asked, pointing toward an abandoned trailer in the distance.

Flik's face lit up. "I know that old caravan! We're close!"

"How much further?"

"One mile."

Eric observed the setting sun. "Daylight's about gone. We'll get there in the morning."

The brothers found a small clearing with some broken sticks in the tall grass. Eric set down each other's knapsacks and supplies. "Okay," Eric paused. "Come over and sit down little brother." Eric gestured for Flik to sit alongside him as he sat on the old twig.

Flik sat on Eric's right and waited for Eric to share his story.

"The truth is we both wanted our parents' approval. Just because I fit the mold as a traditional worker ant in Pops' eyes he would gas up my head over it. But, you on the other hand had your own way of approaching the colony's needs and issues. I'm sure he may have been afraid of your ideas at the time because they were new. I only wish he wasn't a jerk about it and if only I had the courage to do or say something on your behalf sooner."

"So, what happened," Flik asked.

"Soon after you won our freedom back from the grasshoppers, I tried to convince Pops to make amends. But, he was still too prideful to listen to reason despite what you've done for us. We lost our tempers, I walked out on him and that was the end of it."

Flik paused and raised an antenna. "Knowing Father, he's probably having one of his hating being wrong moments. He'll come around."

"I don't know little brother. I did say I wasn't going to talk to him again."

Flik narrowed an eye as if to raise an eyebrow and chuckled. "For the record, you both have the same temper."

Eric smiled and chuckled. "And you are ahead of your time like our Ma! Come here you!" Eric laughed as he grabbed Flik in a headlock and gave the biggest noogie.

Flik squirmed from Eric's grip and leapt back at him, instigating an act of horseplay. The two brothers chased each other around the clearing until Flik leapt into Eric, sending him backward into the ground. Flik rolled over and landed next to Eric as the two ants looked into the stars.

"Flik," said Eric.

"Hmm?"

"Thank you for everything. I had an epic day."

"Anytime Eric."

"You mean you forgive me?"

"Of course," Flik said as he took Eric's hand.

"It's great to have you back little brother."

"You too, Eric."

The brothers spent hours gazing at the stars.