existential-terror

Portia grapples with the fear of extinction and the unknown, reflecting a universal anxiety that accompanies the struggle for survival.

1 chapter across 1 book

Children of Time (2015)Adrian Tchaikovsky

Chapter 15

In this chapter, Portia, a warrior spider, prepares for an impending battle as her community, Seven Trees, faces an overwhelming enemy force of ants. Amidst the chaos, she engages in a calming ritual of spinning mathematical knots, reflecting on the deeper understanding of existence, while her kin ready themselves for defense against the ant army that threatens their survival.