Before delving into that, a miraculous phenomenon occurred. Yes, just like before, the area near the magic circle slowly, but clearly, transitioned from lush and thriving to brown and withered.
Plants wilted lifelessly, trees dropped fruit that instantly rotted, and broken branches carried leaves that were no longer intact. "Hm, does this formula draw life energy from the surrounding nature? If so, then it's highly likely that 'they' are the ones who invented the method."
After the phenomenon subsided, it undoubtedly left a barren impression amidst the once fertile surroundings. "Not only one-way, but also one-time use," he murmured. "It would be quite intriguing if I could exchange thoughts with the weaver. They are quite adept in this craft."
With that in mind, Anubis walked up the nearby just-now barren hill.
Back to the presence of humans, he wanted to ascertain what was happening in this area, as many humans, either individually or in groups, were moving to and fro in an abstract melody. From a higher vantage point, Anubis could gain a broader view. However, what fell within the scope of his gaze was something beyond his expectations.
"That's..."
Very far ahead, beyond the countless trees of the forest, is a beautiful light blue lake that shines reflecting sunlight. The beauty of it is not what catches his attention, but rather the presence of small dots clustered together, possibly numbering in the dozens or even hundreds.
At the edges of the lake, there is a vast green grass field where many tents have been set up. Although Bloodthirsty cannot reach that distance, Anubis is quite certain they are a group of humans.
In another direction, to the northwest, just before an expansive ocean, a large city can be seen with its structures enclosed by sturdy walls. With such a great distance, it's difficult to confirm, but connecting one piece of information to another, this explanation seems hard to refute.
"If I'm not mistaken, they mentioned it... the Initial Town of Lemuria, right? So that's where these humans originate from," Anubis murmurs.
At this point, he realizes that he has indeed been transported to a different corner of the Jungle of Chanach, which would have taken days on foot, even if taking a straight path.
As evidence, the monsters wandering in this area are low level, with the highest level being in the 10s range. Equivalent to the blue monster carried by the previous adventurers.
Speaking of monsters, in fact, most of the ones Anubis sees here are in the form of pigs. And they are monsters, not domesticated animals. It's easy to differentiate between them. First, their size and shape, then—well, no matter how foolish someone may be, they would immediately know which ones are monsters and which ones are livestock.
These monsters wander aimlessly, much like a pig would. Are these particular pigs omnivorous? Anubis observes one chewing on twigs like crepes, some eating withered grass, and so on.
Anubis should be within their sensory range, so it wouldn't be surprising if he suddenly gets attacked by the monsters. However, in reality, they seem to ignore him.
Or...
It's the monsters' instinct not to attack enemies stronger than themselves. As long as Anubis shows no interest in attacking them first, the monsters will continue to ignore him, or even move away when sensing danger.
Monsters are creatures without reason, after all. But even so, they are smart enough not to start an unnecessary commotion. It's quite the opposite of those who claim to be intelligent, capable of thinking, considering themselves the pinnacle of all life forms—when in reality, they are the most foolish and weak beings.
Or, let's call this arrogant being by their proper name—humans.
After a rustling sound from the bushes, an adventurer runs forward with a spear in his right hand, raised high. As he comes to a halt, his right foot firmly planted on the ground, he throws the spear as if he's throwing a javelin.
"Huyah!"
Anubis remains silent. From the beginning, he knew that a group of humans was approaching the area, but he never imagined they would do something as stupid as this.
The spear shoots off, not without purpose, but intentionally aimed at Anubis standing on the hill. However, unable to resist gravity and friction, the spear's trajectory curves before falling to the ground just a few meters away from the thrower.
With a clang and two bounces, the spear lies on the ground, while the adventurer, still in a confident throwing pose, his right hand extended forward and his left leg lifted straight back, smiles sourly.
"Here we go, the moron."
"And what do you think you are? If you want to do that, then choose the Archer class, you dumb."
Adjusting his posture, the spear-thrower laughs softly toward his two companions who come out of the bushes as well, scratching his head. "Hehe, I thought I was initiating skills back there, sorry, sorry." He seems slightly remorseful for his actions.
There is little Anubis can do in this situation. The sudden changes in terrain and the greenery are quite apparent, anyone seeing it from afar would naturally be curious to come closer, which is indeed the case in the first place.
But this is also an intriguing opportunity. Regardless of them being humans, what he desires is information and knowledge, something to alleviate the curiosity that has been gnawing at him since his awakening in this world.
However, these people don't seem open to any sort of conversation. Anubis can sense their desire to kill. Are all humans this callous? If so, the rest will only be a nuisance to handle.
More and more presence draws near, some have already revealed themselves from behind the trees and immediately lock their gaze upon Anubis, who is clearly visible on the hill.
And they all have the same intention. Do they see him merely as a rare monster? Anubis thought.
With a resigned sigh, Anubis jumps off the cliff. His form gracefully floats as he descends, landing both feet on the ground, facing the first group of adventurers.
"Very well! In that case, I will conduct some research," he muses, stringing up his soon-act. "First, how do humans naturally respond before genuine fear?" With his step forward, the adventurers become fully alert, some even running towards him think of nothing.