Cogna is a destributed hive-mind comprised of seemingly mundane wood ants. With a knack for manufacturing and mechanical engineering, she is set to revolutionize the industry and social organization of a group of exiled gnomes, with a healthy serving of magic. This is a slow-paced story of discovery and scientific/technological advancement, through the perspective of an inhuman intelligence. Major themes include: ants, magic, technology, warfare, logistics, computation, and whatever else tickles my fancy. General disclamers: I'm still pretty new to writing, I struggle to create compelling dialogue, and I always over-explain. If you're expecting a professional—or even halfway competent—piece of literature, this story isn't for you.