As they cleared the second wave, they realized that only low-level beasts were now being drawn to them. These beasts had abilities similar to those of the previous wave, which cancelled Aengus's plan to stack new skills. While he managed to acquire a few new skills, the rest were simply assimilated into his existing skills.
In terms of stats, his gains were minimal. With his stats exceeding 5,500 points, the low-level beasts barely offered any substantial stats, only adding in decimal amounts.
It also became evident that these beasts possessed a certain level of intelligence. Recognizing the danger ahead, they stopped falling into his trap as he had initially hoped. It was almost as if they had been warned beforehand.
After synthesizing Aria with some additional beasts, Aengus sent 300 more near-death creatures to the Monster Breeding Space.
With a glint of determination, Aengus began planning his next steps. He had gained some additional knowledge from Manas about this forest; there were still mythical creatures hidden somewhere deep within. The thought of hunting them brought him exhilaration.
"Aria, it looks like we need to head deeper. They've become alert and cunning—or perhaps they received orders from their superiors."
Aria, noticing his grin, felt a sense of unease but asked, "What's the new plan? Are you planning to go after their leaders now?"
"Yes. I think they're more intelligent and definitely of higher ranks." He reassured her with a confident grin. "No need to worry, Aria. I can handle them. If I could, I'd devour this whole forest slowly—if only there weren't humans around."
"Ah, I nearly forgot! If you're worried about the humans, I can now send them a message to withdraw from the forest. My control over nature has increased significantly after all your help. My command of consciousness can now connect to every tree and plant nearby.
If I try harder, I might be able to connect with all the plants and unintelligent creatures as well," she informed him, excited to offer him some real help.
Aengus was intrigued by the news.
"That's great news, Aria! Quickly send them a warning to leave the forest immediately. If they don't leave even after hearing it, they'll have to bear the consequences themselves."
"Alright, let me focus," Aria said before touching a nearby tree, intending to connect with every plant in the ecosystem.
"Darling, did you hear that? We should leave immediately."
"Yes, let's go, baby. I'm getting goosebumps already."
---
"Guys, hurry! Something bad is about to happen. Even Mother Nature is warning us to stay safe!"
"Haha, Oliver, you're such a fool! There's no 'Mother Nature.' Someone probably caught wind of some incredible treasures here, so they're telling everyone to leave so they can grab everything for themselves."
"Stop reminding me of their nonsense, and let's find those treasures quickly."
---
More than half took the warning seriously, leaving the forest, while others, clouded by greed, decided to stay, unknowingly sealing their fate. The wheels of destiny began to turn.
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(AN: For those wondering why humans are hunting in the forest instead of dungeons, it's because the dungeons are only for beginners, ranging from Rank F to D.)
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At the heart of Darkwood Forest, a massive, mythical fox-like creature with seven tails stood alert, its fur shimmering with a dark, ethereal glow. It seemed to speak to the mountain range towering before it, spanning over two kilometers in length and rising four kilometers high. Despite its own imposing presence, the fox showed a clear sense of fear and reverence toward the mountain.
"My Lord, it appears the humans are up to something cunning once again," the fox said cautiously. "They're evacuating the weaker ones for some reason."
To any observer, it would be baffling—what force could demand such respect from a beast of this caliber? And just what kind of presence lay hidden within that mountain?