Chapter 446: Reaching a decision
The theory held merit from a magical ecology perspective. Many epic-rank herbs derived their potency from environmental factors that exceeded normal parameters. A plant exposed to constant psychological turbulence might indeed develop enhanced properties, drawing power from the emotional energy that saturated its growing medium.
After a few moments of contemplation, Arthur decided to gather complete intelligence before making his decision on which area to tackle first. "Tell me about the eastern and southern territories."
The golden beetle nodded its head as it accessed memories of the eastern domain. After a few seconds of pause, the beetle spoke.
"The eastern region is actually controlled not by a pack, but by a single beast," the beetle began, its tone carrying unprecedented gravity. "This creature is incredibly powerful, and seemingly even the Golden Manes and Laughing Death pack refuse to approach that area at all. The beast inside is simply too territorial; whoever enters its domain will die, without exception."
Arthur’s interest piqued. A creature that could intimidate both the Mane King and the Cackle Queen suggested power levels that were high.
"What kind of beast are we talking about?" Arthur inquired.
The beetle was being very vague.
"The Winter Beast," the beetle replied with obvious reverence mixed with terror. "It’s a creature of mammoth proportions—easily twice my size in every dimension. Two massive horns protrude from its head like ivory spears, each one the size of what humans call a spear. But its size isn’t what makes it truly terrifying, master."
The beetle paused, gathering its thoughts as it accessed deeper, more disturbing memories.
"In its territory, the Winter Beast has created its own terrain entirely. While bones serve as the territorial markers for the hyenas, and claw marks define the Golden Manes’ domain, pure ice is the signature of the Winter Beast’s realm."