The Primal Hunter Chapter 1312 - Hope Amidst Doubt

Regarding individual might, Jake certainly possessed no advantage against all the A-grades present. He had therefore exerted his utmost effort to impress upon them the fact that, despite their superior power, it was ultimately inconsequential. They remained as mere specks of dust before entities of a higher caliber, beings capable of their annihilation with effortless ease. In the grander perspective, the disparity between themselves and Jake held no significance whatsoever when supreme deities were the arbiters of all outcomes.

Naturally, Jake needed to demonstrate a certain degree of influence. However, this influence was not of the kind that could directly end their lives. Instead, his power stemmed from his organizational capabilities, bolstered by his faction and the Malefic Viper.

As for incorporating his Bloodline into the display… well, Jake surmised it could only enhance his intimidating presence. He understood that he could not genuinely instill fear in these A-grades, making them believe he was more powerful than them, nor was that his intention. His aim was to present something they could not comprehend, prompting them to question their established worldviews even further, thereby rendering them more receptive to his counsel.

However, the result deviated somewhat from his expectations. Jake had intended to project a modest aura of intimidation with this display, a level far beyond what he had achieved using Pride and Invocation. Previously, his intention was not to frighten the Archweaver or Miresnakes, but merely to let them perceive the Malefic Viper’s aura.

This time, he refrained from even utilizing Invocation and Pride, opting simply to unleash the standard aura befitting a Chosen. Yet, there was a crucial element Jake had overlooked:

These denizens of Venus had no prior exposure to such auras. Many across the universe grew up encountering, or at least meeting, numerous blessed individuals throughout their lives. They were gradually accustomed to experiencing minor manifestations of divinity, particularly as most blessed persons made a deliberate effort to publicize their blessed status, often broadcasting their auras more than necessary. Jake, having grown accustomed to concealing his identity, even employing Shroud to erase it from his Identify results, found himself flaring his Chosen aura for the first time since arriving in the Minor World.

The impact was immediate.

All the A-grades physically recoiled upon Jake’s aura manifesting, with several instinctively gripping their weapons in a defensive posture. A palpable sense of fear permeated the air. They gazed upon Jake as he stood there, his Chosen aura intertwined with his Bloodline’s essence, for several prolonged seconds.

Jake’s pronouncements regarding the proper discussion of the Minor World’s future were scarcely absorbed. Everyone appeared utterly uncertain about the course of action. They clearly had much to contemplate, which was quite understandable.

Hearing Jake discourse on divinity and related matters was one thing, but experiencing the tangible aura of a Chosen was an entirely different matter. While Jake’s aura lacked direct combat applications, perhaps only serving to momentarily shock an adversary – though such an effect would likely be negligible in the heat of battle – it undeniably served its purpose in situations like this.

For a brief span, Jake contemplated retracting his aura but swiftly decided against it. He simply remained still, observing as the Venusians and Arachnecs regained their composure, internally placing bets on who would break the silence first.

The first to speak was an individual Jake had not anticipated. Just as this thought crossed Jake’s mind, the very fabric of space beside him quivered slightly, and the Archweaver materialized, audaciously appearing in such a setting despite being merely a B-grade.

Likely due to his prior encounter with Jake’s Invocation-infused Pride, the Archweaver was less overwhelmed and shocked, allowing him to articulate his thoughts first.

“You ceaselessly astound me with your methods. I had not anticipated your capacity to depart the Nest independently,” the Arachnec remarked, conspicuously avoiding the obvious tension in the room.

“I perceived no necessity to do so previously,” Jake responded with a smile. “And if it offers any solace, I possess a means to directly exit this world. However, allow me to caution you all presently that this method would permit only my departure, and no one else’s.”

He was, of course, referring to the establishment of a teleportation circle and his subsequent return to the Order with Villy’s assistance. A course of action he deemed unnecessary given the current favorable progression of events, although retaining the option was prudent.

“I would feign surprise, yet that would be an untruthful declaration,” the Archweaver stated in a nonchalant tone, which subtly alerted Jake to the Arachnec’s underlying strategy.

His timely arrival had significantly diffused the tension, as denoted by the casual exchange between the two. While this was not Jake’s intended outcome, it did not necessarily represent a negative development. Furthermore, he was met with another surprise upon noticing that all the Venusians regarded this B-grade newcomer with an expression of considerable caution. Jake had clearly underestimated the Archweaver’s standing, and in retrospect, had the Nestmother ever truly treated him as a subordinate?

“I am known to be full of surprises,” Jake declared, addressing the assembled crowd once more. “What you are all experiencing right now is merely the aura of someone divinely blessed. Compared to the true power, there is simply no comparison. Granted, I do possess the highest level of Blessing available; the difference remains stark.”

“This aura appears to possess two distinct components,” the horned frog observed, having clearly discerned the presence of both his Bloodline and Jake's Blessing.

“Correct, one is my Blessing, and the other is my own innate power,” Jake confirmed, earning a cascade of disbelieving glances. “It stems from a power that may exist beyond your current comprehension. Unless, of course, you are familiar with Bloodlines?”

Jake’s sphere meticulously analyzed the reactions of everyone present. Indeed, it was quite apparent that not a single soul had any inkling of what a Bloodline entailed. Once again, this was hardly surprising, as the statistical probability of anyone possessing a Bloodline appearing in this world was incredibly low. Even if such an individual had emerged, the chances were they possessed a useless Bloodline, or perhaps they had perished prematurely. With a myriad of possibilities, the likelihood of anyone knowing about Bloodlines was virtually nil.

“That would be a negative, which is perfectly acceptable. You shall all learn in due time,” Jake stated with a smile. “Which, in truth, is precisely what we should be discussing. The future of the Venusians, Arachnecs, and all other denizens of this world. A monumental upheaval is now inevitable, but I am confident a solution can be found that will not only help preserve the races and factions of this world but also elevate them to heights beyond your wildest imaginings.”

Having instilled fear regarding the perilous world beyond the Boundary, it was now time to illuminate the potential advantages of this external realm. The objective was to convey that life was not solely about coercion, but that a more appealing alternative also existed.

“This will necessitate our allegiance to one of these colossal factions, I presume,” the Oracle mused, her tone lacking any discernible enthusiasm for the prospect.

The Archweaver and the Nestmother, conversely, appeared engaged in a rather animated discussion, their inclinations seemingly leaning favorably towards the Risen faction. Truthfully, Jake felt they would integrate quite well there. Had it not been for the Seat of the Exalted Prima system event, he would have summoned Casper. He probably still would, just at a later juncture.

“Perhaps,” Jake replied, attempting to suppress a smile. “It all hinges upon the individual who governs entry to this world.”

“As an individual aligned with the same faction as this Malefic Viper, and possessing one of these potent Blessings, would it be correct to assume you could facilitate our contact with this person?” the horned frog inquired, also clearly disinclined to submit to a massive faction they had only just been introduced to.

“One might say that,” Jake responded, having resolved to reveal a significant amount while strategically withholding the fact that this Minor World technically fell under his dominion. At least for the present. “What I can assure you is that my counsel will carry considerable weight in the unfolding events. However, ultimately, the Malefic Viper's will shall reign supreme.”

Jake’s pronouncements appeared to slightly de-escalate the tension, though the apprehension lingered. They remained uneasy, but Jake continued to speak.

“Let us take a step back, shall we? This entire predicament arose from the deeply ingrained animosity between the Arachnecs and Venusians, a conflict rooted in territorial disputes. With access to the multiverse, that is no longer a relevant concern. At least, not one that will impact any of you. You will have the freedom to depart and face a virtually limitless world ripe for conquest. If you so choose, both factions could relocate to realms where, within your lifetimes, you would never even encounter a single member of the opposing faction,” Jake explained, genuinely aiming to persuade them that rather than engaging in conflict within this Minor World, they should focus their attention on opportunities in the wider universe.

The implication was that succumbing to conflict now would only serve to weaken them upon crossing the Boundary. He aspired to offer them a brighter future. A future where, instead of a bitter dispute over Jake, they would both establish new lives and find contentment, never needing to think of each other again. Well, it wasn’t a complete success, but Jake was adapting and moving forward.

Jake paused after his statement, allowing the weight of his words to settle upon the assembled A-grades. The ensuing silence stretched, a deliberate pause from Jake's side that lasted several moments before he continued. “The realm beyond the Boundary is not merely vast; it presents unending possibilities. You are not being compelled to forsake your heritage or the principles you have defended; rather, you are being presented with novel horizons. Challenges will undoubtedly arise, but so too will opportunities to forge alliances, expand and secure far greater territories, and for every one of you to achieve personal growth. To evolve.”

The Oracle's gaze sharpened with contemplation, while the horned frog exchanged a look with his sworn adversary, the Nestmother, each weighing the profound implications of Jake’s declaration. The quiet persisted for several seconds, their minds seemingly grasping that this moment might signify the turning point of their futures. Jake understood the road ahead would be fraught with difficulties, yet a flicker of hope for a brighter future appeared to have finally taken root amidst their lingering doubts.

“To abandon our home for grander domains is a significant request,” the Archweaver voiced, his tone laced with skepticism.

“Abandonment is not required,” Jake replied, shaking his head. “In truth, I would not expect such a thing. This Minor World possesses distinct advantages and differs from the external world; therefore, maintaining a presence here is strongly advisable. However, these very advantages will inevitably attract others seeking passage, necessitating the establishment of a balance.”

“Granting we reach an accord, would it not be wiser to postpone detailed discussions until certain matters are confirmed?” the Archweaver inquired, his gaze fixed on the distant horizon. “Specifically, your capability to actually escort us beyond the Boundary.”

The Archweaver had raised a pertinent point, though it was precisely this aspect that filled Jake with considerable uncertainty. He had no comprehension of how he was expected to facilitate passage beyond the Boundary, nor what regulations governed such an undertaking. What he did know was that he fervently hoped some rules were in place, as the notion of freely escorting whomever he pleased was hardly a comfortable one.

Even setting aside the A-grades, transporting the Archweaver could precipitate catastrophe for Earth and potentially the entire solar system. Jake harbored no confidence in his ability to defeat the Archweaver, even with the combined might of Earth's other significant figures; certainly not now, with most of them occupied in pursuing Administrator roles for the Seat of the Exalted Prima.

The most favorable outcome was that Jake would be incapable of transporting someone as formidable as the Archweaver. The worst-case scenario involved unrestricted access, or alternately, Jake proving utterly incapable of escorting anyone beyond the Boundary, thereby inciting universal ire and likely resulting in his demise due to perceived uselessness.

Alas, all Jake could do was place his faith in the system notification received by all natives of this world and offer a nod.

“Very well, though I must mention one thing. I have encountered numerous system messages previously, and often, even when unstated, hidden rules or limitations exist. I can confidently assert now that A-grades will, for the foreseeable future, be unable to traverse the multiverse,” Jake stated, his voice carrying more hopeful conjecture than concrete certainty.

This pronouncement undeniably elicited frowns from the A-grades, who had likely anticipated being among the initial group to depart. Fortunately, their expressions did not convey excessive surprise. Jake lacked knowledge of the precise content of their system messages, but he hoped they had contained a warning regarding this reality.

“When you say ‘not yet,’ what kind of timeframe are you projecting?” the Oracle inquired, his brow still furrowed slightly.

“It is difficult to ascertain,” Jake responded, shaking his head. Following a period of further deliberation, he concluded that a degree of additional information regarding the external world was necessary.

“The entry point to this location resides within a nascent frontier of the multiverse that is subject to specific restrictions applicable to all non-natives of this region. I believe you would at best be considered semi-natives, thus likely falling under certain limitations. These restrictions will gradually diminish over time, but I cannot provide a definitive schedule. It could potentially take a hundred, or even over a thousand years, before A-grades are permitted to venture beyond the Boundary,” Jake explained, feeling a touch apprehensive about potentially disappointing all these A-grades, yet recognizing the necessity of tempering their expectations.

However, this was an instance where Jake had, once again, made a minor miscalculation. This time, it proved to be for the better.

“Merely a thousand?” the Oracle expressed with evident pleasant surprise, and Jake even observed the horned frog releasing a subtle sigh of relief. “Even if it were several thousand years, it is not an unreasonable span.”

It was likely due to Jake's ingrained habit of dealing with rapid system events and accelerated timelines that he entirely overlooked the fact that he was conversing with formidable A-grades who had inhabited this world for an indeterminable duration.

To them, even ten thousand years might not seem like a significant duration. B-grades can live for hundreds of thousands of years, and A-grades are fully capable of surviving for over a million. Therefore, a mere few thousand years is quite short in comparison.

“Perhaps a bit longer, maybe not,” Jake replied, also feeling a sense of relief. “I suppose the only way to truly know is to conduct a test. To avoid wasting any time, have both factions bring members of their respective races across different level brackets, if feasible; perhaps even include a few individuals below B-grade.”

“It might take some time to gather them,” the Oracle remarked, though she didn’t object to his suggestion.

“That is perfectly fine; I am sure we can all afford to wait,” Jake said with a smile. Given their current location directly above an Arachnec Nest, Jake surmised that they could readily provide a substantial number of participants very quickly.

“Very well,” the Archweaver consented. “We shall wait.”

The Venusians acted without hesitation. The Oracle, accompanied by a few other A-grades, proceeded toward the nearest Venusian Village, which Jake presumed to be the same one he had previously visited. With the Oracle’s space magic, their journey would be swift, but a few hours of waiting would likely still be necessary.

This interlude allowed emotions to settle and tempers to cool. Jake also found himself relaxing, feeling a sense of accomplishment with how things were unfolding. The situation was progressing more favorably than he had initially anticipated, with a provisional agreement now in place. He hadn't even needed to resort to using Invocation-infused Pride as a threat, which had been his fallback plan had they become overly stubborn about his participation limitations beyond the Boundary.

Now, his primary concern was to determine precisely who he could bring with him beyond the Boundary, and he hoped there wouldn't be any further unforeseen complications.

Right?