The Primal Hunter Chapter 1317 - Terms of "Equality"

Jake truly disliked being put on the spot, feeling the gaze of all the A-grades on him, searching for any flicker of reaction. Yet, Jake couldn't offer a response that wasn't detrimental, as it was the unvarnished truth. The ninety-third universe was severely restricted; frankly, if these A-grades were unleashed, they could easily subjugate the entire Milky Way.

Certainly, the Order of the Malefic Viper would eventually arrive to execute a purge, eradicating every native inhabitant of Venus. But how would that action possibly aid Jake's predicament? His only leverage was the threat of such an event... and after some deliberation, he concluded it was his strongest card.

Attempting to maintain his composure, as if merely taken aback for a moment, Jake lightly raised his hands in a jesting gesture. "You've caught me. It is indeed under a level of restriction. One that diminishes with each passing day."

The Horned Slayer offered a smile as Jake sought to regain the initiative and some of his lost momentum.

"Which signifies that the threat posed by the multiverse to this Minor World has not vanished, merely been postponed. That was precisely why I initially estimated it could take up to a millennium, by which point the restrictions would have considerably eased," Jake elaborated, lacking confidence in his assertion that A-grades, especially peak A-grades, would be capable of entering the universe by then.

"We are aware," the Horned Slayer stated, his smile unwavering. "Or perhaps more accurately, we had deduced it. And does that not exacerbate the issue? We all fully comprehend that this multiverse will inevitably overwhelm us when the time arrives, but you understand what will not assist us in averting such a destiny? Being confined within this place."

Jake's brow furrowed, genuinely perplexed by the Horned Slayer's implication. "What do you mean? We were just discussing the formulation of a strategy to determine the most effective method for establishing travel between this Minor World and the universe."

The Horned Slayer regarded Jake before shaking his head. Surprisingly, the Nestmother drew nearer and interjected.

"You are accustomed to holding positions of authority, are you not? That your decisions carry weight and that, ultimately, your will shapes events. Because that is precisely the assumption guiding your current perspective," the Nestmother remarked, also shaking her head. "You speak of devising a plan, but tell me this... what prevents you from simply departing through the Boundary, sealing the entrance with the authority you evidently possess in the external realm? Preventing you from waiting a few millennia before dispatching these S-grades to completely dominate our world? Our people?"

Jake abruptly comprehended the reason behind the A-grades' demeanor, his expression clouding over. "That has never been my intention."

"Again, therein lies the core issue," the Nestmother exclaimed with a profound sigh. "Every outcome that befalls this world hinges upon your intentions. Your choices determine our fate. You possess the freedom to enter and exit as you please. Meanwhile, we are all confined here, capable of accessing the outside world only at your discretion. On your timetable. And what awaits us on the other side? Based on everything you have stated thus far, the only future we can anticipate is a life of subservience, if we are fortunate, or servitude, if we are not. Assuming we even endure."

At this juncture, Jake found himself without an immediate response, at least not one that wouldn't elicit another sigh. He commenced a serious consideration of her words and... she did possess a certain validity. A point Jake had encountered numerous times previously, both on Earth and across the Milky Way, and one that Miranda had highlighted as problematic in various contexts.

A predicament Jake could fully grasp, yet was fortunate enough to avoid addressing directly.

No faction relished domination or being compelled into a subordinate position by a superior power, just as Jake himself disliked being dictated to.

Jake had, in essence, entered this Minor World and begun proclaiming the inevitable conquest of the entire realm by supremely powerful factions. In his view, he had solely considered which factions these native races might affiliate with – perhaps the Arachnecs could integrate with the Risen, and the Venusians might align with the United Tribes. However, throughout this process, he had entirely overlooked what might be the most critical question of all:

Did these races even harbor a desire to become subordinates of a multiversal faction?

He had arrived in their world and, more or less, announced their future conquerors. Given such a substantial power imbalance, the inhabitants of Venus likely recognized their inability to prevail in a conflict when the appointed time arrived, which was probably the impetus behind their current actions. Actions aimed at preserving whatever semblance of their current existence they could.

Jake was lost in contemplation, a fact clearly perceived as the A-grades courteously granted him a period to process. This continued until it became evident that Jake had arrived at some form of realization.

“He’s finally grasping the situation, it seems,” the Horned Slayer commented with a light laugh, a shake of his head accompanying his words. “Human, I can understand your sentiment towards your faction, but I must admit, I have no desire to be subjugated without any say in the matter.”

“We are fully aware of our inability to contend in terms of power, yet we still aspire to create a scenario where negotiation is possible,” the Nestmother added, picking up where the Horned Slayer had left off. Their current collaboration was a complete turnaround, demonstrating that Jake had, at the very least, managed to foster a semblance of unity between formerly antagonistic groups.

“What precisely do you seek from me? To be clear, I am more than willing to facilitate a smooth transition for both individuals and factions, but I must also be candid… maintaining complete independence is not a feasible option. The entrance point resides within territory already claimed and under the jurisdiction of the Order of the Malefic Viper. However, perhaps an arrangement can be made wherein the Minor World itself remains under your administration,” Jake proposed, his intention being to signal his openness to finding a resolution.

Despite a subtle shift in the demeanor of Venus’s inhabitants, outright hostility was still absent. It was evident they had an objective, something that Jake was in a position to provide.

“Even under such terms, we would still be regarded as vassals at best, a status granted by a mercy that could be withdrawn at any moment,” the Nestmother stated, her head shaking in disapproval. “However, I am relieved to hear of your willingness to assist. We do, admittedly, require your help… though the conditions of this aid cannot be dictated solely by your discretion.”

This appeared to be the core of their present predicament. Despite the significant disparity in strength, Jake held virtually all the leverage at this moment. They lacked any real recourse should Jake choose to act against them or refuse cooperation, short of resorting to their superior might.

“I comprehend your difficult circumstances, but again, all I can offer is my word,” Jake sighed, sensing that nothing he could say would truly assuage these A-grades. They probably also harbored doubts about Jake’s capacity, as a mere B-grade, to make truly significant decisions.

“No, no, you can offer more than that,” the Horned Slayer chimed in with a smile. “Something that will help level the playing field somewhat.”

Jake harbored a premonition that he would not welcome what was to come as the Horned Slayer continued.

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“As you undoubtedly understand, you possess the sole authority for decision-making. All we ask is that you relinquish that power, trusting us in the same manner you are asking us to trust you,” the A-grade declared, as a figure Jake had been anticipating finally joined the discourse.

“Ah, that is precisely why I am here,” the Lich cackled, clearly having relished the impending turn in the conversation. With a wave of its hand, the formidable Lich conjured magical scripts that swirled in the air, catching Jake’s attention and causing his eyes to widen in recognition.

“Excellent. Excellent, you recognize this,” the Lich proclaimed with a gratified smile. “Earlier, you discussed formulating a plan for integrating the natives of this world. Is this not an exceptional initial step? A document that establishes certain… parameters for success.”

Jake’s gaze remained fixed on something all too familiar.

A Soul Contract.

Among the myriad forms of magic across the multiverse that Jake found disagreeable, Soul Contracts stood out prominently. Their most prevalent application throughout the cosmos was the subjugation of individuals, creating veritable slaves. While legitimate uses did exist, Soul Contracts were binding, often triggering catastrophic repercussions, including death, if violated. This made these contracts immensely potent, yet paradoxically underutilized beyond the slave trade, as the severe backlash deterred most from ever signing one unless absolutely necessary.

This was especially true because such contracts were never truly equitable, frequently necessitating duress to secure a signature. The contract Jake was currently observing fit this description perfectly, as it was far from an agreement between equals.

It was not a contract of enslavement… but it came alarmingly close.

“This is merely a preliminary draft, naturally, to be edited and refined until we all reach terms acceptable to everyone,” the Lich stated in an affable tone. “Naturally, certain provisions are non-negotiable. Such as this one.”

The Lich gestured towards a clause inscribed in runes, stipulating that Jake would be required to “report in” to the Lich or one of the leaders of the Venusians or Arachnecs at least once every five years.

“And this, naturally.”

A subsequent clause dictated that Jake must facilitate the transfer of a specific quota of natives from the Minor World into the wider universe every decade, a number that was far from insignificant.

He had finished reading the entire document, and it was largely structured like a job offer. However, this wasn't a position Jake could simply resign from if it proved to be unsatisfactory. Instead, the Soul Contract stipulated that it would naturally dissolve the moment unrestricted travel across the Boundary became feasible.

In exchange, the inhabitants of this Minor World pledged to furnish Jake with resources to accelerate his advancement. This was, in truth, more for their own benefit, enabling him to extract them more quickly. Furthermore, they offered a solemn promise that none would dare to harm him during his stay within the Minor World.

The most significant incentive presented in their offer was the provision of his very own 'special cave' situated in the ocean of the Minor World. Jake recollected the Shaman's description of these locations as inherently blessed lands for any monster, boasting an exceptionally dense and pure concentration of mana due to natural geological formations. Essentially, a place utterly useless to Jake, seeing as he was not a monster.

While numerous other clauses were detailed within the Soul Contract, Jake found himself questioning their ultimate significance.

“Naturally, some of the other things are hard to negotiate, but I’m sure that-“

“Is this some kind of sick joke?” Jake interrupted the near-peak A-grade cultivator.

The Lich's cheerful demeanor instantly vanished as she directed her gaze toward him. “It is most certainly not. You must understand that this is the optimal path forward. Accept it while you are still at a disadvantage, and you will eventually reap the rewards. In time, you will come to comprehend the wisdom of the decision you make today.”

“Or what, you’ll just kill me?” Jake retorted, gesturing toward the contract. “Because I am absolutely not signing this.”

Rationality and courtesy had completely abandoned Jake’s mind as the full weight of the situation dawned on him; it no longer mattered. He had attempted those approaches and recognized that they were fundamentally flawed from the outset of their discourse. A sense of unease had lingered from the very beginning, and he now understood precisely why.

Merely perusing the contract ignited a profound surge of rage within Jake.

“Please, this is merely a preliminary offer, and while it undeniably favors us considerably, do try to comprehend-“ the Oracle began her plea, but Jake cut her short once more.

“It is you who fails to grasp the situation. I will never sign anything. You have two choices: either place your trust in me or attempt to kill me. If I were in your position, I would certainly attempt the former first, as the latter will inevitably lead to a single, highly predictable outcome,” Jake stated firmly.

“What? That you perish in a meaningless death due to your unrelenting obstinacy and refusal to acknowledge the precariousness of your current predicament?” the Horned Slayer interjected, his tone laced with disappointment. “You are clearly young, so abandon that foolish bravado and heed the Lich's counsel. Do we desire your demise? No, obviously not. However, if we permit ourselves to be utterly dominated by a mere B-grade, we will face complete annihilation down the line.”

“You are currently hurtling directly towards the most catastrophic conclusion imaginable,” Jake sneered.

The Horned Slayer narrowed his eyes, releasing his aura to engulf Jake. “I am exercising restraint presently because you possess utility. However, at some juncture, your self-deception must cease. You are a B-grade. Granted, you possess considerable talent, and I do not doubt your faction holds you in high regard, but do not delude yourself. Do you genuinely believe some supreme entity would expend effort to seek retribution for someone like you? Cease these fantasies. Certainly, they might demand recompense, but if the Venusians offered their allegiance to this Malefic Viper, do you truly imagine such a being would give a damn about us eliminating a mere B-grade?”

And here lay the second significant misapprehension or error in the approach adopted by the natives of Venus. It provided another explanation for their audacity in acting as they currently were. Their understanding of divine beings and Blessings was incomplete, rendering them unable to fully grasp the implications of being a Chosen. At best, Jake was indeed merely a talented B-grade, and what faction would sacrifice an entire race teeming with B-grades and even A-grades to avenge someone like Jake?

They were correct that, ordinarily, no faction would concern themselves with such matters... except Jake was a Chosen. Even setting aside his profound personal connection with Villy, no god would tolerate the killing of their Chosen. A Chosen served as a god's prophet and, in many instances, their earthly emissary. To slay a Chosen was perceived as a direct affront to a deity, and any ensuing retribution was born more from wounded pride than genuine concern for the individual who had been slain.

“You are utterly bereft of understanding,” Jake scoffed at the A-grade cultivator. “Allow me to articulate this with absolute, unvarnished clarity, ensuring your ‘truth-teller’ is paying close attention. If I meet my demise within this minor world, I guarantee that every single one of you will suffer the same fate, and this entire world will be systematically obliterated from existence.”

His attempts at subtle maneuvering and veiled threats had concluded; the era for such subtleties had long since passed. Direct threats of utter destruction were now necessary, and he was entirely sincere in his pronouncements. He understood Villy's nature well enough to know that the complete annihilation of this Minor World was a distinct possibility, not solely to honor Jake's personal connection to Jake. Allowing a Chosen One to be slain without inflicting devastating retribution would undermine the very foundations of his work in expanding the Order's influence. The inhabitants of Venus would serve as a stark warning to the rest of the multiverse.

Should Villy falter in his vengeance, Jake harbored a hope that Artemis would step in, for she seemed predisposed to such actions.

Escalating his threats, Jake deployed a powerful card he had been reserving, one he preferred to avoid using due to the inherent risks to his mental fortitude, yet he deemed it essential at this juncture.

Without the slightest preamble, Jake invoked the 'Pride of the Malefic Viper' technique, unleashing the divine aura of the Primordial alongside his words once more.

“I-“

Jake's utterance was cut short. The overwhelming presence of the Horned Slayer descended upon him, this time imbued with a tangible surge of power. Crushed by the pressure exerted by a being nearing peak A-grade, Jake's 'Pride of the Malefic Viper' shattered. His soul reeled from a violent shock, the backlash of his broken skill nearly plunging him into unconsciousness.

“Your posturing and mimicry are futile,” the Horned Slayer stated with a hint of mockery, advancing towards Jake. “The terms have been clearly established; you possess no genuine alternatives. Your current actions merely erode any remaining goodwill and complicate your own situation. Alternatively, you are actively seeking your demise.”

The words reverberated within Jake's mind, his thoughts still fragmented. Beneath his mask, blood streamed from his eyes, nose, and mouth, a physical manifestation of the severe damage inflicted upon his soul. As the Horned Slayer drew nearer, a solitary thought anchored his consciousness.

Jake sensed the quickening of his heartbeat, his Bloodline stirring, poised to obey his will should he choose to make his final stand. He held little hope for success… yet, he wished to ascertain if he could inflict even a single drop of blood upon one of his assailants if forced into such a confrontation.

“Remaining silent? Very well, I shall grant you a period for recovery, though it will not alter the outcome. Make the wisest decision of your existence, for escape is impossible without the signing of a Soul Contract. No aid is forthcoming, and-”

The Horned Slayer abruptly halted, his head snapping around as he gazed downwards. Jake, sensing the shift, instinctively followed his gaze. Below, the world seemed to writhe as a colossal, scaled behemoth ascended, its aura eclipsing that of every other A-grade cultivator present.