Alex stood before the ancient tree and quietly observed it.
The massive creature had remained rooted in this region for more than two million years. Surrounding it were eight other trees of the same species. While they were smaller, each one had still lived for over a million years. They were not ordinary plants. They were tree type soul beasts that possessed intelligence and self awareness comparable to any living creature.
Because they spent their lives disguised as ordinary vegetation, they had managed to survive countless dangers that would have exterminated other soul beasts long ago. Their nature allowed them to remain hidden while the world around them constantly changed.
Alex slowly raised his head and looked directly at the oldest tree.
"Tell me something," he said calmly. "During your lifetime, have you ever encountered a soul beast that was more than ten million years old?"
As he spoke, a terrifying pressure descended upon the tree.
