Chapter 361: The Mysterious Abyss Creatures
Have you ever wondered why abyss creatures do not partake in the act of consuming food? How do they manage to kill other animals without this primal need? Is it a distortion of their inherent nature or a manifestation of declining morality among them?
'Cough.'
Perhaps it's more accurate to say that certain peculiarities surface when dimensions overlap. In essence, when a creature from another dimension inflicts harm upon you in your own realm, there is no harm at all. This harm only manifests when the two dimensions are fully integrated, revealing the true misery of an animal's death. Additionally, these animals have the ability to come back to life after their demise.
These intriguing observations couldn't help but remind William of a particular type of abyss creature - the abyss brain-sucking monster. These four-legged explosive creatures have an aversion to consuming flesh and blood. Instead, they manipulate spatial overlaps, bridging the gap between the outer and inner worlds.
In William's theory, even in the mythical era, there were likely numerous spatial overlaps between the outer and inner worlds. This era saw the gods leading various races in a battle against the abyssal creatures. The octopus-like creature William encountered on Stormy Island was one such remnant of the abyss monsters from the age of the gods.
However, it is essential to note that the mythical era was not a time of the gods' downfall; it was a period during which the gods showcased their immense power and greatness. During the mythical age, the gods reigned as the mightiest entities among all races.
Between the mythical era and the Dragon era, there existed many unaccounted-for years, a period marked by the gods' gradual decline. William couldn't help but ponder what transpired during this enigmatic era. Regrettably, no one provided him with answers, and even his inquiries with Mexis yielded no response from Modao.
William continued, "When dimensions overlap, the rules of the two worlds collide and change. Many abyssal creatures are likely to emerge in our world. However, according to the records of dark events, there aren't many abyssal creatures in this land. This suggests that the dimensions are not fully integrated. The rules of the two worlds merely interact, causing temporary changes. Only then do the creatures of the Northern Duchy and even the abyss suffer irreversible damage, known as the 'curse.' This is the primary reason for transforming this land into a desolate wasteland."
William's revelation prompted immediate confusion among the onlookers. Weren't they here to confront and resolve the monster issue? Why the sudden change of heart?
The townsfolk wore expressions of unhappiness, their dissatisfaction evident. They felt betrayed, believing that the group had abandoned them after promising to address the monster problem. However, they dared not voice their grievances to these powerful Professionals who could soar through the skies. Their discontent simmered beneath the surface.
Surveying the residents and the hunter captain, William delivered a straightforward message, "If I were in your shoes, I'd evacuate the entire village immediately, heading to the city dozens of miles to the south. It might just save your lives. Believe it or not."
"Leave?" The hunter captain exchanged glances with his companions. How could they abandon their ancestral homeland, where they had lived for generations?
Prince William observed their hesitation but refrained from commenting further. Their decision to stay or leave was ultimately their own. He remained benevolent and righteous, having no intention of forcing anyone to accompany him.
With Annie's riding on a unicorn, the group departed, retracing their steps out of the Northern Duchy.
Meanwhile, William took out a sound scroll and contacted Caesar Jack in The Blue Frost Empire. He relayed his concerns about the unstable spatial conditions and urged the senior leadership of The Blue Frost Empire to send a space mage and a Grand Enchanter to investigate.
Not long after, Caesar Jack responded, assuring William that he was in discussions with The Blue Frost Empire's royal members and that he would convey the message to the Frost Emperor. If the crisis described by William proved true, it would significantly enhance the success of their negotiations.
William glanced at the message, his lips curving into a smile. Caesar Jack's underlying message was clear: this information was valuable, and it would also serve to boost Caesar's standing with the Frost Emperor. It was a mutually beneficial arrangement, and William didn't mind offering such an opportunity to Caesar.
Satisfied with his message sent and the potential political leverage it offered, William returned his focus to the matter at hand. He had done all he could, and now it was up to The Blue Frost Empire to take action.
Having left the Northern Duchy behind, the group continued flying until they reached the outskirts of the Frost Forest. William announced their destination: the Snow Elves.
Olaf, puzzled, questioned their decision, "Are we heading to the Snow Elves?"
William nodded, replying, "Indeed, do you know the way?"
Olaf confirmed his knowledge of the route but warned of the increasing cold and danger as they ventured further into the Frost Forest.
The Frost Forest, with its proximity to the northernmost regions, was a land where various formidable creatures resided. Beyond the forest lay territories occupied by the Orc Empire, Behemoths, Frost Dragons, and Frost Giants. The Frost Dragons were particularly infamous, known by several derogatory names, including "Shameful White Dragon" and "The Shame of the Dragon Family." They were often regarded as a delicacy by many due to their penchant for freezing everything and leisurely dining in ice caves.
The region was far from desolate. The Orc Empire surrounded it from all sides, the Behemoths were territorial, and the Frost Giants occasionally captured orcs as slaves. The human Blue Frost Empire maintained a substantial military presence in the area to fend off potential orc invasions.
Even the Snow Elves, residing within the Frost Forest, were known for their audacity, frequently engaging in skirmishes in the icy wilderness.
Despite the harsh climate, life thrived in the north. Beneath the frozen lakes and the vast ice sea, aquatic creatures thrived. Moreover, various plant species adapted to the cold, providing sustenance for herbivores and carnivores alike.
The group soared onwards, and time passed swiftly. They had left Olaf behind, and the Northern Duchy was now a distant memory. At the edge of the Frost Forest, they paused, gazing at the endless expanse of the white woods.
Olaf spoke up once more, "I know the way to the Frost Forest, but I'm uncertain about finding the Snow Elves."
William assured him, "You need not worry. Just follow my lead." He smiled, holding a box in his hand. It was a delivery from the Black Leaf Elf King, though William had yet to open it or discern its contents.
However, a growing feeling overcame him. It seemed that the Elf King was searching for a successor.
He chuckled to himself, thinking, "Becoming the Elf King would certainly bring me one step closer to the pinnacle of my life!"