Chapter 468: Fighting the crimson Hyena Queen.
Beside her throne, ten hyenas stood in a circular formation, their crimson fur radiating power that exceeded the one Arthur had felt from the Golden Manes. These were clearly the queen’s elite guard, creatures that had the same talent and tendencies as her. They were superior-rank predators operating at level 24, just one level below the domain manifestation.
Each guard hyena possessed the same cruel intelligence that characterised their leader. Despite their weariness, Arthur could see the sadistic anticipation they felt towards him and his summons.
The Cackle Queen herself was a magnificent specimen.
Most striking was her expression. It wasn’t that of the wild hunger of a predator, but the satisfaction of someone who had just been presented with a particularly interesting puzzle to solve.
Arthur assessed the situation before him. They were a formidable opposition that required immediate decisive action rather than extended combat that might allow their psychological abilities to accumulate effectiveness.
Arthur turned to Aether by his side and spoke with calm authority. "Finish them, Aether."
Aether’s eyes lit up with excitement at the prospect of demonstrating his combat capabilities. The small void dragon bounced slightly on Arthur’s shoulder, his enthusiasm immediately evident as he began considering his available options.
"Should I use my Singulari—" Aether began eagerly.
"NO!" Arthur immediately interrupted, his voice carrying sharp urgency that cut through the throne room’s oppressive atmosphere. In such a confined space, Singularity Collapse was simply too powerful—the mythical-rank skill would likely catch everyone in its devastating area of effect, including Arthur himself. The chamber’s enclosed nature would amplify the gravitational forces beyond safe parameters.
"Use something weaker, Aether," Arthur instructed with a sigh.